Good afternoon everyone. >> Good afternoon everyone. Welcome to the February 26 meeting will be available shortly after viewing on any smartphone or tablet device. If anyone is recording the meeting, including the use of AI note-taking
apps, please notify the chair. There seemingly none. Pursuant to Governor Healey's signing of chapter 2 of the acts of 25 extending certain CO 19 measures adapted during the state of emergency, suspending certain provisions of the open meeting law until June 30,
2027. This meeting of the Chattam Finance Committee is being conducted in person and via remote participation. Every effort will be made to ensure that the public can adequately access the proceedings as provided for in the order. A reminder that persons who would
like to listen to this meeting while in progress may do so by calling 508-945-4410. again 945410 and enter conference ID 981350211 981350211 hashtag or pound sign or one may join
the meeting online via Microsoft Teams through the link in the posted agenda. We will post a record of this meeting on the town's website as soon as possible and we are going to continue our work with respect to voting on various
article warrant articles for town meeting. Um and we'll start with a call to order. Tommy Don I know is not here. Barbara Madison is on her way. John Papalarda is floating in the Caribbean somewhere. Joannne Sprag >> here.
>> Andy Young >> here. Christristen Andres >> here, >> Tracy Shields >> here, >> and the chair is present. We do have a quorum, however, tender us. >> So, with that, we will turn it over to Carrie. >> Thank you, Mr. Chair. Joanne, can you
hear me? >> Yes. >> Okay. Until next week, I want everyone. >> Okay. >> You're welcome. >> No problem. Um, so we're going to be going over the operating and capital for FY2027 and any changes that have made
been made since January. Um, so as of right now, our operating budget is at 47,295,000 sorry 47,295,970 without education. And that is a 4.7%
increase over FY2026. Um a decrease of 43,124 over the prior proposed from January of 47,339,94. And I'll go over the changes with you. So this slide goes over the decreases
that were made for the budget in the amount of 163,000. Uh there was a decrease for the Barnstable County Retirement Assessment. I had made an estimate um based on previous years. So um it came in $30,430
less than what I estimated. Uh the health insurance is uh decreased by $87,146. Um the as you know, you heard the um the schools talking when they presented their budgets. It came in at 8%. We're
still looking at 8% plus the 19% for the medics. So this is a decrease of 87,000 for the estimate that I had proposed in January. Um the fire department dispatch assessment um was decreased by $28,256.
Um Justin did go over this with you when he did his presentation. The uh dispatch is a regional uh assessment and they received uh their state funding. So, it was reduced um and the natural resource
department temporary wages was reduced by $12,000 uh dollars and this was for um originally budgeted for a retired employee who was completing assistance on uh special projects and grants that he was working on and he's no longer with us. So, remove that from the
budget. Um the uh increases to the FY2027 budget amount to $119,978. Um after listening to all of the budget meetings with the select board and you
guys in the finance committee, um I increased the snow and ice budget by 55,000. So it's now out to 150. Um the veterans assessment and benefits um increased um the assessment was increased by 1,147,000
and then there was an additional veteran that came on for benefits. So I want to make sure there's enough funding in there. Um so I increased that also by 10,000. So that's an increase of 11,147. The moderator expense line was increased
by $50 and that's due to his dues. um they're $100 for the year and his expense line is only $50. So every year he goes over. Um the elect's official salaries um increased 10,800. Um town band was increased by 1,200.
Seasonal salaries um we made a market adjustment for the seasonal salaries that increased for most all of the salaries seasonal salaries across the board by $30,81. and the assistant town manager position
increased 8,980 and that's a transfer of $5,000 stipen from the town manager's budget to community development and a $3,980 increase for base pay. >> Um >> does anybody have any questions?
>> Please chair. >> Have we voted on the increase for the elected official salaries yet? >> You have not. >> Will we? >> The select board has. You'll be voting on them after. >> We We'll do that before we vote on the whole whole budget. >> You can if you like.
>> Well, it's part of it, isn't it? >> It is part of it. The select board already voted on it and they already voted on the operating budget last night, too. >> All right. But there, to be clear, though, they're two separate articles. One's the operating budget for the town. The second is the particular uh
potential increase in the >> Oh, okay. >> salary. So, so >> yeah, they're two separate. one is inside >> next to >> so >> but if we don't vote for the increase in the salaries that changes
the figures for the whole budget. So >> yeah but not for the doesn't change the operating budget which is what we're going to be voting on which Carrie is breaking out the increases and decreases within the operating budget which is separate from an article to
bump the select port salaries. This is a Okay. All right. >> So, if it doesn't go forward, >> they're two separate >> overall town spending will go down by a couple thousand. >> But it doesn't affect the operating budget. >> Even though on the screen it says
increase is $10,000. That's not an increase to the operating budget. >> This is an increase to the operating budget, but you have to vote every year to fix the salaries. So, it's two separate two separate things. because the article that you vote on for
fixed salaries is has nothing to do with the monetary money. >> Okay. Yeah. >> I can't remember ever separating the that article, the part of the town budget from the rest of the budget, the salaries for the select.
>> We do Eddie. >> That's been routine for I don't know how many years. Um but but the key is that it may be that small amount will be incorporated into the operating budget but if that article on official salaries
does not pass with that number they don't get paid that number >> correct >> right it essentially becomes an adjustment right I guess okay >> it probably adds to free cash actually >> by by how much
>> I'm sorry to prolong this >> $10,000 We can throw it at the >> vote budget. >> We're voting on the original amounts for the selectman. >> We're voting on their request that is incorporated into the town's
budget, but unless the specific article for elected officials salaries agrees, they can't be paid the increased amount that they wish. >> Right. >> So, we will be voting on them
separately. is what you're trying to tell. >> Correct. Yep. >> As as >> it just seems so different from Okay. Thank you. >> You're welcome. >> Thank you, Carrie. >> You're welcome. >> Um, so the next slide is just an
overview of the actual for 2025, the budget for 26, and the proposed for 2027. This includes the school. If you look at the screen, um it's 59,749,448. Again, that includes the school's um
current proposed budgets. Um so I'll just go through the capital. So um there was a decrease of $50,000 from the prior proposed amount of $2,490,500.
So the current capital is proposed at 2,440,500 and the changes to that was um the removal of $50,000. Uh it was in the capital request for the um exterior rehab project for the harbor master
office. Um it was approved by the CPC. So I removed this from our capital. Um there was a need for a um a front loader purchase for the DPW TR and transfer station. Um and that's in the amount of
200,000. Um it keeps breaking down. So it was like a high need capital request. So what I worked with Rob on this and we found that there was extra funding in the um original sewer collection repairs. So we reduced that by 70,000
and we reduced the 100,000 for road resurfacing because there was enough funding in there and also reduced the 30,000 from the facility safety equipment repairs. There was enough funding in there and we're getting um extra chapter 90 funds. We got some extra funds last year and we're getting
extra funds this year. So that will help with the road resurfacing as well. Um so the capital budget is presented again at $2,440,500 and it will be funded through uh free cash2,212,34
waterways improvement funds at $115,000 the conservation fund at 10,000 the PEG access receipts reserve for appropriation fund in the amount of 30,000 and there is a prior article in the amount of 73,466 that we'll be funding this with
>> Carrie, could you provide us please just uh the rough balance currently in free cash? >> Um after all of the articles and everything, there's $296,000. >> Okay, thank you. >> Mhm.
>> Questions for Carrie? All right, let's keep going. Um the you already saw this um but I'm just going to mention it anyways. The Cape Cod Technical Regional High School uh their assessment was reduced by 57,33.
Um the original estimate was at 617,346 and it came in at $560,313. And the Mono Regional School District assessment came in um currently. It might change. I was informed last night. Um, their original request was
11,979,723. It's now at a proposed budget of 11,893,165. And that's all I have. >> Andy Carrie, um, by saying it may it may change. In other words, this has yet to be voted on by the regional school district.
>> That's correct. So, um, Cape Tech, um, they're they were supposed to vote their, uh, budget today, but it's been postponed due to the weather. Um, and Monoy doesn't vote their budget until March 12th. Um, and
it this could be reduced a little bit more is what I was told last night. So, >> Tracy, please. I was pleased to hear you mention uh other funding source for road resurfacing because if that includes
like potholes and things, I think this year is going to be a banner year >> for the need for that with all the freezing. >> Yeah, >> at least it feels that way on my car. >> Yeah. No, there there is there's strikes
me there's a material increase in potholes. >> Mhm. Do you guys have any other questions? >> Let's keep going. >> That's all I have. >> Really? >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> Just those few slides.
>> Uh so Andy, were you signaling a question? Okay. Can you uh put the slide back up that's got the total proposed so we can start with one or the other
either capital or operating? So the operating budget is at 47,295,970. >> Okay. So further questions from the committee. There there being none, I'll take a motion to support uh the operating proposed operating
budget $47,295,970. So moved. Second. >> Thank you. Uh, roll call. Joanne, >> yes. >> Kristen, >> yes. >> Andy, >> yes. >> Tracy, >> yes. >> The chair supports five to nothing. >> Thank you.
>> Thank you. And then capital. >> The capital. >> We'll use this slide. >> Okay. So, revised capital budget $2,440,500. Any questions for Carrie? >> Okay, there being none, I'll take a motion to support.
>> Second. >> Thank you. Uh Joanne, >> yes. >> Kristen, >> yes. >> Andy, >> yes. >> Tracy, >> yes. >> Chair supports five to nothing. >> Okay. Thank you very much. >> Thank you. All right. Now, I think we're gonna we're gonna climb into the Wayback Machine
>> and go back to articles that we had decided we were going to pause on. And so, let me find those. Oh, I just want to mention I do have Terry Whan on. Uh he's remote. If we
have if anybody has any questions on the Marone Towers. >> Okay. So, in no particular order, we held the two Penrose related uh CPC requests uh last week as well as some of the
uh other CPC articles uh that we didn't think we had enough information regarding. Uh we also held on the Chamber of Commerce budget um which we also received information uh from carry on. So again, in no
particular order, uh why don't we come back to the assistance resource center, which is a $100,000 um allocation for um contributing to the funding of a new assistance resource center providing shelter and services
for homeless individuals uh to be located in Hyannas. I know there were some questions around uh the duration that somebody might be able to stay there. Um I don't know that necessarily that we received information on that Carrie.
>> Um on what >> the homeless the community um would uh the assistance resource center that's $100,000 allocation for the homeless. >> I did send you some information. There was a question um >> Barbara
>> I have not heard from them. >> Okay. >> Back from them >> on that. >> All right. Uh, okay. Questions on that? Otherw Yeah, otherwise I'll go to the room. Mr. Phillips, >> Brian Phillips, 370 Orleans Road. So, I
worked um as a security guard uh for about three years at the bus stop uh the bus station in Hyenas. So, I had a lot of interactions uh with the homeless and I did ask a lot of questions about these uh one of the shelters that they use. Um, this is by no means like a college
dorm party. It's very strict. It's very regimented. You have to be um you have to check in by a certain time. I think it's like eight o'clock or else you can't uh you know, you can't get into the shelter afterwards. Um there's like a no no drug no alcohol policy. If you're if they're if you're under
suspicion of doing drugs, alcohol, they have, you know, the right to drug test you. Um they make you check your phone in. You're not allowed to use your phone, you know, phone at night. Um so this is really for people who need it. uh you know a lot a lot of people that that are working and just you know don't
have a place to live. This is not you know kind of for the vagrants that choose to be on you know the street. Um so I do think this is this is a good project. Uh thank you. >> Thank you. >> Uh Joanne please. >> Thank you Mr. Chair. It's uh it is a
problem and particularly we hear about it in Hyannis and uh I think this is a step in the right direction to begin. >> Good. Thank you Joan Tracy. I am comfortable voting on it without the resolution to those particular
questions, but I know that um Barbara was one of the ones who had expressed that, but I'm comfortable. >> So, I think what I'll do by I got a text from Barbara short time ago saying that she was on her way. She just crossed over the bridge. She had a medical appointment. Um, so why don't we table
this kind of as long as we can uh for her to uh hopefully arrive in time and we'll move it then. Um, let's put this one over here. All right. So then we had uh a hold on the Maronei lattice tower
preservation project and we did receive uh some architectural drawings which I found to be very helpful as well as scope of work materials and I think we've got Terry on. Yeah, Terry's here. Um so questions or Terry, why don't we
start it with you if there's anything you want to inform us of. We just felt last week we didn't have any of the drawings, any of the backup supporting uh information. So, if you'd like to speak to this article in that would be
most helpful, I think. >> Yeah, absolutely. And again, apologize for that not having that info in there um for last um your last discussion, but basically this is a follow on um project. Some of you might recall um you know we had funded studies out there of
the structural uh conditions of of the towers. We did go out to bid um for all three towers um and that came in um basically almost more than two times uh the the the budget that we had. U we're
making the repairs on one of the towers. Uh and basically the request is to do the the repairs on the remaining the remaining two towers. So that's kind of the the the overall um context of of the request. So again, these the the the
towers there are part of the uh they're contributing structures to the historic uh Maronei uh RCA historic district. Um so again they're not functioning right now in any kind of capacity for um radio transmission or anything but again
they're they're part of the in integral to the um historical um designation on the property. Um and then uh you know in the package excuse me I think it's a couple of different
packages but again basically it's just you know all the work is up in the air um and needs to be done to Department of Interior standards. So um fairly um detailed project from that perspective. >> Yep. Um so to be clear the the drawings
that were provided us uh encompassed all three towers uh but this article we already have funding for one of them is what you're asserting and then this is strictly for the other two >> right for the remaining two. So we we're we're tackling the one right now which
is um complicated kind of right working in the electric lines which may not be working today but uh you know complicated on the the campus side of of the uh project and again uh planning to we also have some you know construction
window issues here as well um with with different things. So, we're looking to rebid for the next two towers in um in the in the fall uh of um fall of 2026. >> Okay, that's helpful. Thank you. Uh questions, Christian, please.
>> Um thank you, Mr. Chair. Terry, what uh I saw the attachment that we received in the mail, which was your presentation, I guess you have PowerPoint slides. Can you what's the total? It looks like we uh CPA money was uh 284,000 back in
FY24. Um I think what I understood looking at the slides the total project is 530,000 plus dollars and then the CPA application said there was a request for $450 for so if you could just explain what the
>> sure total financial deal is. Yeah, I have a slide and maybe I pull up a slide, but yeah, so essentially you're right. The request was for for much more than what um the the committee is um I guess has the capacity to fund. So we we've estimated based on you know the
again the real prices we've gotten from the market on what we need to do. So but the hope is that there's um you know going through this process um you know and getting some familiarity in different vendors. Again, it's kind of a
unique it is a unique project. Um and um that hopefully again at a minimum we would get one tower again or if there's enough economy um and vendors are are more comfortable you know giving us more
realistic prices better competition um you know we might be able to do that within the um it you know within not only the allocation but also the the balance if you will from the in the CPA a application.
>> So I guess the question I'm asking is what's the total project cost for the renovation or the restoration of these three towers? >> Well, taking out the uh because the the cost for the first tower is 189
and then the estimate would be um the additional um let me pull up the slide here. Okay. So, is it okay if I share my screen here? >> Yeah, please. Thank you. >> Okay, sorry. Give me a couple seconds to
get to that screen. >> We can see that. >> Okay. So um so again if if everything came in at the um again this is based on the estimate for the remaining so the first tower is u 189,000
um and then the depending on the prices it could be as much as an additional 455 which would bring that total up to six 64 around 644,000.
>> Anything further, Christian? >> I guess thanks. That's what I was looking for. And then um and this is all been with CPA money. No other grants. This is all tax dollars for through the CPA. >> Um are they functional or this is just to keep them standing?
It's just really for structural integrity um so that they're not a liability but again also furthering the uh you know the the interests of the historical commission on on keeping keeping the listing status. Uh and then we also have a a corresponding project
that we've talked about that sort of has an environmental component that we will be seeking some other funding where we're actually looking we still have some other reg we have a NOI in place and but a couple other things potentially also move the one tower that's along the bank of of Ryder's Cove
to move that back and put that on a new foundation. Um, but that's more of kind of a a climate adaptation project um slashrestoration and and amazingly the um the costs for that are not it's more of the uh a lot
of the approvals are quite challenging on that but basically it's just a foundation and a crane move uh which um is is not as um expensive as you would think on the prices we've gotten. >> Joanne, please. Thank you, Mr. Chair. I
think that the the Maronei Maritime Museum is u is a museum that makes Cadam uh unique and I I see us spending money all the time on things that will have to be replaced and have to be renewed every
year and updated and updated. I think uh an investment of this type in this kind of museum for our town is really important but uh the the matter is it does need to be watched over and I have full confidence at least I'm starting
with that the different departments in town and the historic society and uh the commissions will be able to keep this on track and make sure that the money is well spent. Thank you Mr. Chair. Thank you, Joanne Tracy. Please.
>> Thank you, Mr. Chair. I thought when Gary had come before us that their decision not to fund the full amount that you that was requested was based on um them having difficulty
developing a consensus about it and then it was thought well let's pay let's do this amount to get a second tower and then we can decide if we need a third tower. Um, so this, so what we're voting on is really just to it would be just
enough to complete a second tower with the remaining balance from before. Is that correct? >> Yeah, that's correct. But again, hopefully if we can structure or re, you know, there there's some chance that,
you know, with with the balance and and if there's more competition on it that we could come in closer to that. So that's Yeah. So, but you're you're you're 100% correct. This is really, you know, and I actually I don't want to speak for the CPC, but their rationale,
you know, based on the that that slide that I just showed you is they were basically saying, you know, let let's do one one tower definitely. Um, and then, you know, we we'll do what else we can do. Um, you know, and again, or maybe find some other grant funding or other
sources, too, because we're going to be looking into that as well with through the uh state uh I think it's MPF program. Okay. >> In the inter. >> All right. Thank you, Jerry. Uh, I think it's an important project. I think this
is a seminal moment in America's history, uh, and global history, frankly. And I think to not try to preserve these towers would be an act of historic negligence. So, uh, with that, I will make a motion to
support the, uh, proposed restoration of the second tower. >> Second. Thank you, Joanne. Um, roll call. Joanne, >> yes. >> Kristen, >> I'm going to vote no. >> Okay. Thank you, >> Andy. >> Yes. >> Tracy,
>> yes. >> Chair supports a four to one. All right. Thank you, guys. >> Thank you, Terry. >> Thank you. >> Thanks, Terry. Uh, Mil Pond Overlook Accessibility Trail.
um $125,000 for the funding of the Conservation Foundation's Overlook Trail, which is there um not readily accessible to people with mobility issues. Um Carrie, anything
you'd like to speak to on this one? >> I'm sorry, which one was it? >> Mil Pond Overlook Trail. >> Oh, the Mil Pond Overlook Trail. Um, >> and I don't think >> there was a question about public access, and the answer I got was yes,
there is public access to this project. Um, it's specifically to create an accessibility trail to an area overlooking the Mitchell River, including the creation of a small parking area that will lead visitors right onto the trail, possibly located
behind the Atwood House. >> Crystal Luc. Yep. >> Okay. I I just wanted to be clear that this um would be publicly accessible at all times because I know it is privately owned by the foundation. So I imagine there's sort of a a restriction that or
something legal that requires it >> that I I am not aware of CPA funds. I don't know. >> Um I just know that there is it's >> the intent is there. >> The intent is there. Yeah. >> Okay. to have public access to be able
to get to the site >> and we've not seen any sketch or anything. Um, there hasn't nothing was presented to the CPC >> whatever. >> Um, I sent you everything that I had. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Um, sorry. >> Okay.
>> Yeah. I will I will note that I was on the board of the historical society twice and uh there was always real reluctance on the part of the foundation to allow access back there historically. Uh clearly things have changed uh given
that there is now a trail there uh but that wasn't always the case. Um so uh Joanne please. >> Yes. Thank you Mr. Chair. From 2008 910, this committee has been trying to get
all of our trails uh signed and accessible to the public. And this is important. And have you had as many >> family visitors as I do every year who enjoy these trails so much and feel safe on them and the because they're marked
and they are accessible. I think this is very important uh for us to keep keep uh tabs on and make sure we keep all of our trails accessible to the public. >> Okay. Further comments or questions?
Uh if not, I will take a motion to support uh $125,000 for the purpose of funding the conservation foundation's Mill Pond accessibility trail. Thank you. Thank you. >> Um in support, Joanne, >> yes. >> Kristen, >> yes.
>> Andy, >> yes. >> Barbara, >> yes. >> Welcome. >> Thank you. >> Yes. >> Tracy, yes. Chair votes, yes. Six to nothing. All right, we will move on to restoring the legacy
of Kate Gould Park. Um, we did receive, well, I guess that was more pertinent to the chamber budget. Um, we did receive some information from Carrie as to who's on the group. Uh,
it's a smattering across departments. Jeff Dakkins is representing the select board on it. Um Carrie, any color that you want to provide other than who was in who was in the group?
>> Um so I did get an email back uh about who was going to be overseeing the project until there was a new executive director in place. Um there's a Lauren R. Kamano. Um she's the executive director of Cadam Conservation
Foundation. Um, sorry, Joanne. Um, she said she would be the point of contact for this project as of now until the executive director steps in. Um, you know, and it's anticipated that it could be something that the town would
have to oversee as well. And so, but as of right now, that's what I have. Lauren Armano, I think I'm saying her name right. >> All right. Comments or questions? Kristen? Um, so I thank you for the materials. It
was helpful to see the actual CP uh A application for this. Um, I noted the detailed marketing. My big question all along has been what's that $25,000 for. I didn't never felt like I got an answer to that, but I see now that some of
money is going towards the production of a brochure and a website. And I'm curious, is it going to be its own website? I mean, who's or this is the chamber and merchants. They're getting $25,000 to do this work or it's not
still not clear to me who's getting the money. I understand there's going to be a public process and a uh listening sessions, etc., but I'm just curious like it was so detailed, but who's getting the 25,000? Is it paying chamber and merchant staff to do this work?
>> I thought it was a consultant that they were going to hire and pay. >> That was my understanding as well. >> Yeah. Okay. That was my understanding as well. >> Okay. >> All right. Other comments or questions? I guess I'm still a little murky on the
structure of this. Why Why are we giving money to the chamber? >> I don't think it's actually going to them. I think they were just the ones that applied for the for the um uh CPC
funding. It's not going to fund them. It's going to this project under for Cape Gold Park for the beautifification of it. It's not going directly to the chamber. So, we're not going to be sending the money to them. Okay. >> That's the fear.
>> Right. Well, that's helpful because that wasn't necessarily the case when it was described, I think, to us initially. >> No, it's not going directly to them. >> Okay. >> But it's the ch I'm sorry. It's the chamber and the merchants that'll be hiring the consultant. Um, is the beautifification committee
itself? >> Is is that a state is the state is that a townointed committee? It's just an ad hoc group. >> I think it's a Yeah. >> But there is um I don't recall his name, but one of Rob's senior guys is on it from DPW. >> Yep. Tom is on it. Jeff Dykens is on it.
>> Jeff's on it. >> Yeah. >> Um so there is kind of official representation. >> And I believe >> still a little murky, but it's scary. I I think it's actually going to become a official committee, too. So,
>> we'll see. >> All right. Further Bob, please. >> Um, thank you, Mr. Chair. It just seems like we we've we haven't hired any they haven't asked for any more. No one's asked for any more people this year, but over the last few years, we have given a number of extra people to the town,
including the DPW. And um do we have to I just I have a visceral objection to consultants doing something with a park that is so you know important and integral to our town. Um isn't there someone who has been hired or who works
for one of our departments that could do this? I mean is there a working group that might be able to come up with a beautifification of this? I that's my problem with this. Well, there is there is a working group uh including representatives again from
from DPW, from the select board and other groups in town. Um, again, a little murky, but Kristen, please. >> Sorry. I think what I understand from the materials that we received is that
the consultant is going to be conducting um visioning sessions and question and surveys of the public what they want there. So we're not at the stage of hiring a consultant landscape designer to do something. It's more I think the
$25,000 is about um interacting with the public and seeing what they want there and creating this brochure. I don't know what the purpose of a brochure is these days but um anyway they have all that's outlined in the in the details. So the consultant is more about doing that
public uh receiving public outreach uh yeah doing the outreach and receiving public feedback on what they want to see at the park. But it is I guess we'd always have to remember that this is a town uh jewel. It's our property. it's the town's property and we so I I'm
happy with the outreach and that effort that's going to go on. I just was curious on who was going to do it, but we don't know that yet. >> Mr. Chair, >> I'm happy to vote this amount to get the project started. if you it's pretty uh beaten down because we have some
wonderful uh exhibitions and parties going on there, the October Fest and uh I think it's really important to the town and we this is a small amount of money compared to the rest of the money we spend and to
get the project started because here we are talking about it and I think that's important and I think between our committee and uh historic and and the uh the the town administration. We can keep
an eye on it, but let's get it started because it's going to be quite a project, I think. >> Yeah, sounds like >> not quickly done. Thanks. >> Okay. Uh Andy question. >> Oh, Mr. Phillips, approach the bench.
>> Uh Brian Phillips, 374 Leans Road. Uh this is a project I've been following uh pretty closely. I went to the site visit where I initially found out uh about all of this. Um they already have plans. They already paid a designer for the plans. I saw they were atrocious. They want to put pavers across, you know,
it's almost like half the park and make it uh hardcaping. And to me, it's the it's the centerpiece green space of Chadam, which is um downtown Chadam, which is um uh at a premium. And uh uh the first and they also so ch
the beautifification or chamber they've already funded um you know the plans they have plans and they fully planned to implement this um the first phase was to get rid of the trees which they tried to do um uh so because if you put um you know the hard skipping there is going to
compress and kill all the trees. So the the one by the corner was a potential hazard because I brought an my own arburst in to check out the trees. And the two other trees they wanted to cut down to make room for the pavers um I brought arbor in. They said they were perfectly healthy. And what's kind of
funny is after this storm, those were the two trees that survived. There was there was damage in all the other trees. So uh to me this was a very uh strange process. Um, it seemed like to me they just kind of had their plan, wanted to do it, wanted to cut down the trees. Um,
you know, what makes this town great is we're a democracy and we make decisions as a town. Um, and I'm probably starting to ramble. So, that's that's kind of what I what I have to say if anyone has any questions for me. Terrific. Thank you. Appreciate that.
Okay. Um, unless there are further comments or questions, I'll take a motion to support the proposed article of $25,000 to fund the community outreach phase. Oh, I'm sorry. Ann's Ann has a hand up. Ann,
>> hi. Thank you everyone. Um, I just want to say as a member of the CPC committee, I do not support this project. However, I do support the idea of creating a working group to oversee this. But the
problem with the existing working group is it was not an officially um appointed working group by the town. Therefore, they are not subject to the open meeting law. So, all of the meetings take place, you know, not
publicly. And I have a problem with that. So my suggestion would be to have the select board appoint a working group like all the other working groups we've had that does meet uh in open session. Thank you.
>> Thank you. Andy, please. >> If I understand the previous a previous speaker correctly, there's already been a plan drawn up and so is this to create essentially the
rationale for the plan that's already existing. Right? I mean, come on. Um, I now having heard this speaker talk about the fact that there was no requirement for public meetings. I'm I'm beginning to not like this more
and more. >> Yep. Okay. Thank you, Tracy. Please. >> Or is this article an effort to change course and involve the public?
Kristen >> and that part is good, but I like what the previous speaker said that it would be better to have a townapp appointed workg group where we've got actually public um requirements for you know access public access and discussion in
an open forum as opposed to I mean I I know a little bit of a history on how this kind of morphed. So, I I would like uh the opportunity for the select board to appoint a a committee that would have to um abide by open meeting law.
>> It sounds like there's increasing agreement that process has been murky. So, all right. So, I will take a motion to support the article. >> So, moved. >> Is there a second? Thank you. Tracy support Joanne. >> Yes. >> Kristen,
>> no. >> Andy, >> no. Barb, >> no. >> Tracy, >> yes. >> Chair votes no. So that was two to four. >> Two to three to four. Um yeah, I I just as a sort of an
observation there there there seems to be kind of an increasing willingness or maybe not willingness and that's not the right word but perhaps tendency to
veer away from good transparent process. I think that could be said about the RTE and how that was approved without input in a 60-minute meeting of the board of selectman. I think this is emblematic of it. Um,
we're going to get into the chamber budget in a minute. Um, but it it just I think that's something that I might want to call out in in our report to the warrant. It's just sort of this we just need to tighten up our process on some of these things. uh as out of respect
for the taxpayer predominantly. Um so think about that. Um okay, fixed salary elected officials. Um so the select board recently voted on
the initial proposed uh which is to increase the salaries of town moderator select board each member select board chair to $1,500 for the moderator $6,000 for the select board
and an incremental $1,500 for the chair. Um, total budgetary impact $10,800. Um, so I will uh well, I'll ask if there are any comments or questions. Carrie,
anything you'd like you'd like to say? >> Uh, yes. So, Joanne had um Can you hear me? Okay. >> Sorry, I keep pulling it forward. I'm >> Thank you. >> I'm back. Um, Joanne had some questions about the benefits, um, health insurance, that
kind of thing. So I want to make sure that I um get this information to her. Um so a select board and a moderator are eligible for health, dental and life at 7030 split the same as an employee the
the day they start in office. They can also additionally get IMED but that is 100% out of pocket. um their insurance ends the day they are out of office and they can elect to get
COBRA but COBRA is at 102% which includes paying the administrative fee. Um so there's that. Um was there another question that you had on it? >> Yes, Mr. Chair,
>> please join. When you say uh the moderator and the selectman >> are eligible for the town's medical benefits, >> what% >> dental and life. Yep. >> Say that again. >> Health, dental, and life.
>> Health, dental, and life. So what for each selectman if they for say a selectman chooses the three of them what is the taxpayer paying for them to have that privilege per person >> 70%.
>> What >> 70%. >> And what does that add up to in money? >> It depends on what plan they get. >> Say that >> it depends on the plan because if they're individual or family it's it's >> Can you give me an approximate? $20,000
for a family plan. >> And who is paying for that? >> Um I >> I already know the answer to that question. It's the taxpayer. >> It's the taxpayer. Yes. But I I really want to get you a If you're going to ask me exactly how much somebody is paying,
I want to actually look and see how much it is. >> I'm sorry. I didn't hear that. >> Sorry. I said, I want to give you an actual figure if that's what you want. I don't want to just estimate.
>> Well, and as a to for the sake of clarity, if it's 20,000, the town's paying 70% of that. >> Yes. >> Would be 14,00 $14,000 for a family plan.
>> So, >> do you do you have those numbers? That's just I have to look up. That's just medical we're talking about. >> Yeah. Medical and dental. >> And dental. Yeah. >> And then there's life insurance. >> Yeah. Life insurance isn't a lot of money. Usually it's just
>> But still it is uh it it it makes for the tax bill. The taxpayers are paying for that. >> Yes, you are right. Yes. >> Because people think >> they pay 30% and then the taxpayer pays the additional 70. I think they ought to know this before they vote on something
like that. And to me, that is a a nice uh uh stipent. I It's just like a stipen getting the ability to do that whether they whether a selectman or elected. But these are is not the other elected
officials in town. >> No, it's the the select board or the moderator. >> Why is that? Why what why would we choose uh two aspects of the elected positions and not the others to give that benefit to?
>> Well, town employees do get that benefit. >> Say that town employees do get that benefit. >> No, elected officials I'm talking about. Isn't the housing authority elected? >> I can't answer that. >> I believe so. The school school
committee members. Well, the school committee is on the school. We don't have school. We pay an assessment to the school. So, >> but it it's we we'll get it back in our assessment. I mean, it's they
>> I understand where you're going with this, but I don't know the answer to that. I >> Okay. I think we should know the answer to this. I'm I'm not going to vote for this in any way because I don't think the taxpayers realize that that they are
getting this extra that the selectman and the moderator are getting the extra benefits. And I don't it's okay with me if the taxpayer if it's okay with the taxpayers and I'm sure they're all more than worth this because of the time they
spend. But I think the taxpayer didn't realize that it's more than just a stipen that uh uh are these positions get and I just I I think uh it should be
just say based on that information I would vote against it. >> Okay. Andy please. >> Uh the fact is that this question has been raised numerous times in previous years. There are plenty of taxpayers who are aware of it, but there are also plenty who probably are not aware of it.
So, you know, refreshing the data would be great. But, you know, Carrie needs to have an opportunity to look up some actual numbers before we start pounding on it. Y, fair enough. Uh, so with all of that
as background, I'll take a motion to support the proposed increases for a total cost of $10,800 to bump the moderator, select board members, and the chairs. >> So moved. >> Thank you, Tracy. Second. >> Second.
>> Thank you, Barbara. Joanne, >> no. >> Kristen, >> no. >> Andy, >> no. >> Barbara, >> yes. >> Tracy, >> yes. I support. So it's three to three. All right. Uh preservation community
preservation act 1533 Main Street. Uh transfer from the CPA fund the sum of $400,000 for the purpose of funding the 1533 Main Street affordable housing project. Uh we did hear from town council Lisa me
um who was first chair in negotiating the LDA on behalf of the town with the working group that the town manager put together that this um it is not restricted by the LDA. In fact, it was kind of anticipated
that uh the community would um be asked or the CPA committee would be asked for funding. So, comments or questions? >> I'm ready to move on it. >> Would you like to make a motion? >> I do make a motion.
>> Okay. Thank you, sir. Sorry, Andy. Is that a second? >> Sure, I'll second that. >> Okay. Comments or questions from the committee? >> Joanne, >> that was a little quick for me. Mr. Shim, which which article are we working on?
>> This is article XX. Since they're not numbered, this the uh the grant of $400,000 to >> I think it's number 43. >> 43. >> Okay. Um uh for the Buckley property project. >> Oh, okay.
>> Um Mr. Phillips. >> Uh Brian Phillips, 374 Road. Um, I guess, uh, question for you I have is it, you know, should taxpayers be, uh, subsidizing a for-profit
corporation? Um, I believe they're out of Pennsylvania, so it would be an outofstate um, you know, for-profit corporation. Um, and I guess the other question is, and this is a little bit of a trick question, I'm not trying to make anyone seem silly, but you know, who voted for
this project at town meeting? It's uh you know 10 buildings between 30 and 32 feet tall, about 70 parking spots, a tremendous amount of payment. Um the you know it's 48 units, a little over 80 bedrooms. It's going to use uh it's
going to put a lot of uh strain on our uh infrastructure. It's um you know upwards of 16,000 gallons of water a day uh our grid. Um so I guess you know who who voted for this at at town meeting? I
guess the answer is none. None of us because this this did not go through a town meeting. So So no one no one got the opportunity to vote on this. This project did not >> it was circumnavigated. We voted on purchasing the land but we did not we
did not vote on this project. No, we voted on acquiring the land and the project was turf to community development which has amongst other Gloria McFersonen whose job is uh coordinator of these activities has
tremendous experience in Province Town and elsewhere on these kind of things and they developed an RFP which was put out to bid and uh they received I don't remember three maybe four uh proposals was u conforming
with the RFP and the affordable housing trust members and the select board voted to uh take the Penrose project. So, um, and there was there was a couple projects and the one I really liked and
a lot of the people in town liked was the, uh, the housing, uh, the hack project, which was home ownership project. And it was, um, you know, it was really geared towards the middle class, the people that are in rental units, uh, that can't afford to buy the houses around here. And, uh, I think
that was really the project we should have gone with, but we didn't have the choice, right? You know, between three and five. Brian, with all due respect, that ship sailed months and months and months ago. This it was determined by the housing trust and the select board to go with uh a rental project over
there. The hack is doing stepping stones as you probably know, which is going to be a rental is going to be an ownership project, but we there's no point in litigating what we think should have happened there because that's not what's happening there. So with all due
respect, >> I just do think it's a you know egregious uh you know disconnect in our in our in our town government basically that five people were able to make you know the decisions on >> well it was more than five because those the housing trust was involved too.
There were two separate votes by two different committees who have carriage of these type of undertakings, >> right? But two of them were on the select board and the the housing trusts. >> Correct. >> So they counted twice. So I think it was like, you know, five, seven, you know, it was not many. It was a very small
amount of people made the decision for this project. >> Right. But the decision's been made. >> Understood. Tracy, >> I just also wanted to point out that at that what you what you what you said demonstrates that there was outreach to
the public on multiple occasions for feedback on these projects and so there had been healthy discussion and that information was taken in to consideration by the groups responsible >> in developing the RFP.
>> Right. And I'm well aware of the surveys and stuff and the information that came back and they totally ignored what you know what the majority opinion was of the people that >> Okay. Well, again, Brian, we're not here to litigate this. We're here to vote on whether we're going to put $400,000 towards the project because that's
that's what we're dealing with. >> Sure. >> You know, I understand that you don't believe the process was faithful or appropriate, but um Andy, sorry. >> This is going to go to town meeting where people vote.
Let the people speak it down. >> Yeah. >> All right. So, I guess I was just trying to sway you guys because you guys have a big influence over what happened at town meeting. Um, so, right, it's happening. And the thing
is is they're going to put that project in whether we give them this money or not because it's all state and federally, you know, funded through tax credits anyways. So if we give them this >> not not not all of it but >> you're right there is there is a lot of private there's private investments too.
So I guess other you know another strong objection I have is that we don't know who the investors are. Penrose won't release who the investors on this project are which so we're going to be giving money to people we don't even know uh you know who it is. And then
something I thought was, you know, kind of a loophole that I am makes me worried is that um, you know, that they can sell this project. Um, like the project up in uh, by BJ's and Hyenas where it was like 300 units. I think it took about $90
million to build and then they turned around and sold it for $300 million. So this is big business, big, you know, big profit here. Um, and the and the one thing that really concerned me is if they uh if they default on a loan, they can get rid of 75% of the affordable
housing units. So, one of my main concerns is that, you know, it's being pushed as uh, you know, affordable housing units, but it's going to turn out to, you know, through what profit corporations do is, you know, make profit is that it's going to turn into
uh non non-affordable housing units. So, that's just something I wanted to point out and that I'm very concerned about looking into the future because, you know, it's people my age that have to deal with the consequences of this, you know, 20 years down the road. Thank you. >> All right. Thank you. Uh Andy, please.
>> I I I note that the select board apparently had a split vote on this. In fact, it looks like it did not carry two to three to zip. >> Um yeah. So, let me see. Um on the scorecard they um
>> What number is it Andy? >> These were numbers 40 two and 43. >> Two to three to zero. Article number 43. >> Yeah. >> And >> two to three and I believe >> which means it does not prevail. So was
there any color provided in that? >> Um the CPC articles automatically go to town meeting. >> I understand that. Okay. >> I'm not suggesting not. >> I thought that's what you were intending. >> No, no, no. Um, so
yeah, they voted against it. >> Do we have any color? >> Anyone know? >> Sorry, Tracy. >> Did anyone watch that meeting? >> I did not. >> Which meeting did it come up at? That would be the first question. >> Which meeting did it arise?
>> It was last night. >> It was Oh, okay. Mhm. >> It's okay. Do you have any color on what the their conversation was? >> If not, that's fine. They were talking about the LDA and the
funding inside the LDA and how one was stated that um one was against the F like it said something about it won't go back to the town to get more funding and the other one didn't mention anything at all. Um,
so that was kind of the gist of it. And then I guess they, you know, obviously most of them felt that they didn't want to support it, >> right? But we do have an opinion from council that >> Mhm. >> we're not procluded, >> correct,
>> from soliciting the town >> for a contribution to the project. >> Right. >> And we also have a record of doing this in Orleans, doing this in Dennis. We're considering doing it in Hyannis. >> Um, so we have a history of that. Joanne, please.
>> U, Mr. Chairman, for $400,000 with as many questions as we have on each side of this, I would vote against it and let make sure by the time of town meeting, our taxpayers have all the information they need to make a good solid vote. >> Yeah. Well, you'll have that opportunity
momentarily. >> Uh, Barbara, please. >> Thank you, Mr. Chair. Um, if town meeting votes this down, that isn't going to do anything to the contract, is it? I mean, they're still going to have to Penrose is still going to have to build the project. Correct. >> Correct.
Okay. Further comments or questions? Tracy, >> I was going to move to support. >> Okay. Is there a second? >> Second. >> Mr. Phillips, did you want to say something further? >> You know, I go to all board meetings and
I guess One of the one of the big disputes is you know section two uh uh a D of that is where it says the town's assistance and support here shall not include additional financial
support. So it very clearly states in the LDA. So I don't know what the LDAs for the other towns are um why we're giving but you know it it says that we're going to we should help with you know grants which we did. We got you know a big grant. um we voted to not do
prevailing wages, you know, uh which cut down on their cost a lot. So, we've done a tremendous amount, you know, for this project. And um and then it specifically says the town's assistance and support health should not include any more financial support. So, I know what the
you know what they say about lawyers, you know, it's kind of you get a different opinion or whatever if you put three of them in a room. Um so, I don't know how he could possibly >> Yeah. So, so I was in the involved in the meetings that negotiated the LDA and I think the provision you're referring to is a stipulation that they're not
required. The town is not required, but if CPC decides they want to put money into the project through the housing trust, they're certainly capable of doing that. >> No, I agree. >> Yeah. Okay. >> It just says we're not required to give give any more money.
>> Correct. >> All right. Thanks. >> Yeah. All right. We have a motion. Is there a second? Barbara. >> Barbara. Yeah, that's right. Thank you, Barbara. Um, okay. Joanne, >> no. >> Uh, Kristen, >> no. >> Andy, >> no. Barbara,
>> yes. >> Tracy, >> yes. >> And the chair supports. So, three to three. >> I'd be happy to reconsider if we get more information. >> Okay. Uhuh. Uh, then we have the same question at
zero beating house road. Uh, and this was $100,01. Nice round figure. Is there a motion to support Tracy? >> So moved. >> Second. >> Thank you, Barbara. Okay, Joanne. Support. >> Yes.
>> And Kristen, >> still concerned about the uh select board's vote, so I'm going to vote no. >> Okay. Uh Andy, no. same issue. >> Barbara, >> yes. >> JC, >> yes. >> Uh, chair votes yes. So, four to two on
this one. >> I didn't miss Mr. Chair, I didn't realize which issue we were vote I thought we were voting on the historic harbor master. But >> no, we were voting on zero meeting house road affordable and retainable housing.
>> So, we're doing the same. Exactly. >> Yeah. for put the scorecard down because that's that's not relevant to what we're looking at here. >> Okay. >> So, would you would wish to change your vote? >> Yes. I I meant I would have voted.
>> Let's do this again. I'll I'll take a We have a motion. >> Sorry. >> Second to support the town putting $100,01 into the affordable obtainable housing project at zero meeting house road. So, I'll call the role again. Joanne, >> no.
Uh Kristen, >> no. >> Andy, >> no. >> Barbara, >> yes. >> Tracy, >> yes. >> Chair supports three to three. >> Thank you, Mr. Chair. >> You're welcome. >> All right. Uh, so the only thing, Carrie, correct me if I'm wrong. Well,
we have two things. We've got um the assistance resource center, which I wanted to hold because Barbara had some questions with respect to that if I'm not mistaken. >> What was >> this? the assistance resource center in Hyannas for the the homeless shelter. >> Yes, I did. I wondered um if there are
any u stipulations on the people who could avail themselves of this property. >> I did not get a response back for that from that. Um I did send it out but I didn't receive anything back. Um and I don't know if it was due to the storm
but I haven't heard from anybody on the that >> Yeah. So I I would not sorry. Yeah, I would I would suggest given the storm that we hold on voting this one for the time being until we can see if we can't get >> um the information that was requested.
>> Yep. Um just to go back to um I wanted to get you some I was just looking around and I was able to find the rates for this year for the health insurance and so I just didn't want to quote my stuff wrong. Um but um
there's multiple different plans. So I'm not going to get into every detail of of the specifics, but I will say that um for an individual plan for a low plan for HMO, Harvard Pilgrim, and a dental
plan for an individual it would cost the town around $9,000 a year. And then for a family plan on the higher um PO plan for Blue Cross Blue Shields
with also a family plan of dental, it would cost the town around uh $26,000. >> I appreciate the information and that's exactly what I was just looking for. It's just the information. >> I know. I just didn't want to say anything incorrect. So,
>> thank you. Appreciate it. >> Yep. >> True. Thank you, Carrie. Um, Tracy got her finger in the mic. >> Carrie, do you happen to know if the bulk of the select board moderator
use the health insurance option? >> Can you >> Yeah, that's probably a hippo, right? >> Oh, yeah. My my point with asking is that it's sort of a huge deal to like change your
health insurance just for like you know a couple years. I would imagine if you've got your own health insurance and you're happy with it you probably wouldn't change. >> Joanne please. >> My intention Mr. J just to inform in inform the taxpayers of what is
available what we already do for the selectmen who run as supposedly to because they love their community and they want to serve as we do without compensation but I want them the public
to know what is available to the people who are elected and we're saying we're not talking about the housing authority which I believe is action ive position. >> I don't think anybody disputes the legitimacy of the question.
>> Okay. >> I'm glad you did. >> Okay. >> Yeah, we're good. >> Thanks. >> Uh you're welcome. Uh, so the only thing Carrie that I think we've got hanging out and I've not referred back to the scorecard is the Chamber of Commerce budget
and we did receive some information um, still to use my phrase of the day murky from my perspective. Um, and honestly, I still don't understand
the structure of having all the for-profit stuff in one entity and all the overhead and expenses in a separate entity. And again, if I was going to submit a P&L to somebody, it would not look like what we
received. Um, so, uh, any comments or questions on the chamber budget and the information we received? There being none, is there a motion to support the $95,000 Oh, Carrie, you look like you're about to say something.
>> The $95,000 is in the operating budget that you already voted on. >> Oh, >> All right, that's good. No wonder I couldn't find it on the scorecard. Okay, great. >> Maybe next year. >> Okay, so what is outstanding on the
articles you are still waiting for? So, we're waiting for information on the project, the >> Catholic Charities uh Hyannis assistance resource center. >> Okay.
>> Rolls right off the tongue. Um Joanne, >> one more general question. Mr. Chair, can uh Carrie, can you give us an update on how the town is doing with uh the lighting and and the the the repairs to everybody in town?
Well, let's let's let's hold that for the for the let's focus again on kind of where we are, where we are, what we need to get done. So, we've got the schools, >> right? We've got the project in Hyenus. >> The schools were waiting on >> correct. And that's not coming for
another 10 days or so, maybe two weeks. Um, Stepping Stones Road Community Housing Fund appropriation for Stepping Stones Road, which hasn't come before us yet. Acceptance of a bequest in the estate of Patricia Ford. Property at 63 George
Ryder Road. We've not heard that yet. Home rule petition. Uh, regarding housing uh restrictions, lease to local, no action yet. Uh, so we're we're pretty much through
ADU bylaw, Boston Gas Company easement. So largely cats and dogs at this point. Um, with all due respect to the cats and dogs. Um, so Carrie, what do you think?
Well, there was one item only uh that I had on the agenda for next Tuesday and I think ultimately we're probably going to remove it from the agenda. So, um I really don't have much of anything. >> Okay. So, I think as we discussed earlier today, Carrie and I discussed, I
think we're going to declare another snow day for Tuesday so everybody can get their sled out and head over to East Hoe and get a few runs in. Um >> actually supposed to get more snow, >> yeah. Yeah. a lot.
Um, which is a nice segue into Joannne's question. Do we have any information on the status of electrical service? The only thing I heard was the recording that I imagine everybody got saying that it was going to be done by 11:59 p.m.
tomorrow. So, >> the majority >> the majority Okay. They were clear to say the majority >> would be done by that point. I know that
there has been they all day they've been giving us different timelines for the airport >> which I would love to go on the record and say that it's distressing for 16 years that we lose power quite often at
the airport and it never seems to be a priority to hit George Ryder even though the police station, the town annex and the airport are on it. Just putting that out there. Um there was there's been some really major
damage to the three-phase wires and so I know they are have been working today on reringing two of the three-phase just here on George Ryder. So I wouldn't hold my breath.
>> Okay. Well, that's the implicit report from small businesses and shadow. hate that for whatever. >> Uh, okay. Further comments or questions? Otherwise, I'll take a motion to adjurnn. >> So, move.
>> Everybody's just Everybody's digging this so much. >> Second. >> Okay. Thank you, Joanne. >> Yes. >> Kristen, >> yes. >> Andy, yes. >> Yes. >> Tracy, >> yes. The >> chair supports. Uh, enjoy your snow day. Thank you very much. And more to come. >> God help us all.
>> Yeah. Tracy.