Except where otherwise noted, the terms of office expire at Town Meeting 2007.

3)         REAPPRAISAL:  The Selectboard approved a contract with Vermont Appraisal Company for statistical update, subject to clarification from the director of Property Valuation and Review about when the new property values will take effect.

4)         DOGS:  Sharon Fitzpatrick filed a written complaint about dogs belonging to Carol Bandy on Bunker Hill Circle.  Since this is not the first complaint about these dogs, John will ask them to come to the next Selectboard meeting.

5)         ZONING/ORDINANCE ISSUES:  The Town Attorney has filed for enforcement action against Helene Ellis for zoning violations.

            Bob Pearson will attend the next Selectboard meeting to discuss the situation at his property on Route 2.  The zoning issue is outside of the Selectboard’s authority; since there no longer appears to be anyone residing at the property and the zoning regulations do not contain an abandonment clause, there may no longer be a zoning issue, but the Selectboard will discuss their concerns about septic issues and the solid waste that is accumulating on the property.

            At the Morris property on the Groton Forest Road, installation of the septic system is under way.  The owners expect the system to be completed Tuesday or Wednesday, and they expect to have a certification to the Town soon after.

6)         BRIDGES:  The Selectboard has reviewed the State’s bridge inspection reports and they have been given to Dan; no immediate problems need to be addressed.

7)         EXPENSES, PERMITS & PAYROLL:  Selectboard members read and signed reports for General Expenses and Payroll.  The Selectboard approved the minutes of the February 7^th and February 21^st Selectboard meetings.

Respectfully submitted,

Bobbi Brimblecombe, Town Clerk

The foregoing is a true copy of the Minutes of the March 7, 2006 Selectboard Meeting.

A True Record.  Attest, ______________________________________, Town Clerk

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MINUTES - MARSHFIELD SELECTBOARD MEETING

DATE:                         March 21, 2006

CONVENED:              7:00 p.m.

ADJOURNED             10:10 p.m.

PRESENT:                   Selectboard: Laura Johnson, Christopher Martin, John Warshow

                                    Town Clerk: Bobbi Brimblecombe

                                    Visitors: Doug Weinreich (Mountain View Security Systems), Bob Pearson, Joanne Brooking, Allen Banbury, Tony Mayhew, Brett Engstrom, Anne Reed

1)         OLD SCHOOLHOUSE COMMON:  The Board met with Doug Weinreich of Mountain View Security Systems regarding potential security measures.

2)         ORDINANCE VIOLATION:  Bob Pearson and Joanne Brooking met with the Selectboard to discuss possible violations at Mr. Pearson’s property on Route 2.  Mr. Pearson explained that much of the trash and solid waste on the property is not his but is left there by others.  He pays to have it removed twice each year but hasn’t been able to clean it up yet this year. There is a question about where the property boundaries actually are; it is possible that the debris is actually on state land.  Bobbi will contact the state to see if they can help with the removal.  Mr. Pearson agreed to have the trash cleaned up by April 30, 2006.

3)         WINOOSKI RIVER:  George Clifford was unable to attend the meeting but sent a letter indicating his interest in attending a later meeting.

4)         CASSADY ROAD:  Alan Banbury has spoken with Ultramar and has for now resolved the question of whether they can make deliveries across the Cassady Road bridge.

5)         CONSERVATION COMMISSION:  Brett Engstrom explained to the Board that 20 people have volunteered for the newly-created Conservation Commission.  He has narrowed the list down to 9, taking into account geographic diversity, experience, and gender.  The Board was happy to see that so many people are interested in serving, and they discussed how the other volunteers could participate in the conservation effort without actually being named to the commission.

            John moved to nominate the following people:

Annie Reed                              1 year (she requested a 1-year term)

Marcia Penley                          1 year

Marilyn Davis                           2 years

Tony Mayhew                          2 years

Allen Banbury                           3 years

Barbara Bohn                           3 years

Bob Popp                                3 years

Brett Engstrom                         4 years

Michael Zahner                         4 years

Chris seconded – all in favor.

6)         PAINTBALL:  Shawn Moshinskie did not show up at the meeting.  John reported that he was called to the town sand pit last weekend because a paintball game was in progress.  He notified those present that town property can not be used without permission, and the game broke up.  He advised the attendees to talk with neighbors and approach the Selectboard to formally ask permission to use the sand pit for games.

7)         TOWN MEETING:  Laura reported that she was advised by a James Barlow that the Vermont state statues give the Selectboard the authority to borrow money and to set the tax rate without asking permission of the voters, so it is not necessary to put these issues on the warning for town meeting.  The Board will decide whether to continue that practice before the next town meeting.  She also indicated that the offices of Town Clerk and Treasurer should be listed and voted separately.  She also discussed the option of electing the clerk and treasurer to a three year term instead of a one year term.  Bobbi noted that this would be advantageous to the clerk but might not be in the best interests of the voters in the future.

8)                  FOOD DROPS:  As requested at Town Meeting, Laura drafted a letter regarding the food drops at the Old Schoolhouse Common; the letter will be published in the Twinfield Field Notes.

9)                  PERSONNEL:  Laura is working with the Library Trustees to modify their personnel policy to reflect changes to the Town policy.

10)              SEPTIC REGULATIONS:  The Selectboard discussed the need for septic regulations.  John  suggested having Don Wernecke or his representative attend a meeting to explain the new septic regulations and relevant issues to the Board.

11)       ROADS/ORDINANCES:  The Selectboard will meet at the Town Garage at 7:00 am on Saturday, May 6, 2006 to tour town roads and possible ordinance violations.

12)       SALT SHED:  The Agency of Transportation has grants available for salt sheds as part of their stormwater mitigation program.  John will submit the application; Nate Phillips will design the shed.

13)       APPOINTMENT:  Chris moved to appoint Janet Nielsen to the Board of Directors of the Old Schoolhouse Common, Laura seconded, and John recused himself.  She was appointed.

14)       EXPENSES, PERMITS & PAYROLL:  Selectboard members read and signed reports for General Expenses and Payroll.  The Selectboard approved the minutes of the March 7, 2006 Selectboard meeting and the minutes of Town Meeting.  They approved liquor licenses for Rainbow Sweets and the Marshfield Village Store.

Respectfully submitted,

Bobbi Brimblecombe, Town Clerk

The foregoing is a true copy of the Minutes of the March 21, 2006 Selectboard Meeting.

A True Record.  Attest, ______________________________________, Town Clerk

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MINUTES - MARSHFIELD SELECTBOARD MEETING

DATE:                         April 4, 2006

CONVENED:              7:00 p.m.

ADJOURNED             9:30 p.m.

PRESENT:                   Selectboard: Laura Johnson, Christopher Martin, John Warshow

                                    Town Clerk: Bobbi Brimblecombe

                                    Visitors: Dan Tetreault (Road Commissioner)

1)         TRASH COMPLAINT:  The Selectboard has received a complaint about the garbage in front of and surrounding the David and Carissa Lovely residence.  The Board instructed Bobbi to send them a letter that they are in violation of the Town’s solid waste ordinance and the trash needs to be removed before May 6^th.

2)         DOG:  Bobbi notified the Board that she received a complaint about a stray dog in the village.  She caught the dog and called the dog officer, and it has been taken to the poundkeeper.  Dog officer Jo Guertin will be looking for the owner.

3)         MORRIS:  Sue Morris told Bobbi that her septic system has been installed and she has been trying to find out why her engineer hasn’t forwarded a certification to the Town.  Chris will follow up with her.

4)         RAPID RESPONSE PLAN:  John moved to readopt the Rapid Response Plan as updated.  Chris seconded – all in favor.

5)         ROADS:  Dan Tetreault reported that the town has already exceeded the staymat budget for the year, due to the warm January and February – it is unusual to need staymat during the winter months. The Selectboard noted the prolonged mud season and thanked Dan and the road crew for their hard work this winter and spring.

6)         BUNKER HILL CIRCLE:  Sharon Fitzpatrick has contacted the Town to ask for clarification of the ownership of her driveway.  On the tax maps it appears to be town property.  The Selectboard and Town Clerk looked at the deeds to her property and found that the parcel that contains her driveway was conveyed by Fred Fowler to the previous property owner and then to her, so it is her property and the town has no responsibility for her driveway.

7)         UNIFORMS:  The Selectboard approved Dan’s request to switch uniform service companies in an effort to save money.

8)         WINOOSKI RIVER:  Laura summarized the recent meeting of the Friends of the Upper Winooski River.  They have formed the Winooski Community Headwaters Project, with the goals of (1) educating people about the river and what is happening, and solicit input about what river-related projects they would like to see; (2) compile information from that input and decide on short-term and long-term projects that should be completed; and (3) make those projects happen, possibly involving local schools in the process.  Laura noted that as a member of the Marshfield Conservation Commission, Allen Banbury will represent the Town at future river meetings.

9)         FLU PLANNING:  Laura attended a workshop dealing with planning for a flu pandemic.  Planning considerations for the flu are similar to planning for other local disasters.  She will be in contact with the Barre office of the health department to help with local planning.  The Selectboard asked Bobbi to inquire whether information could be published in Field Notes.

10)       911:  Kevin Hennessey notified John that when he called 911 from his home recently, he received an error message and couldn’t get through.  John has talked to the E-911 board and they believe it is a problem with the local phone company, FairPoint New England.  They will investigate.

11)              OLD SCHOOLHOUSE COMMON:  The Board continued discussions with Doug Weinreich of Mountain View Security Systems regarding security at the Old Schoolhouse Common.

12)       SEPTIC REGULATIONS:  The Board continued discussions regarding whether we need a septic ordinance in the town.  They will wait and see what changes are brought about by the new State regulations that are being developed.

13)              ROADS:  The Selectboard has received a complaint that ATV’s and trucks are tearing up the Thompson Road.  The Selectboard will instruct Dan to post signs prohibiting motorized vehicles.  Chris will talk with the local snowmobile club to see if they would be willing to help with installation of gates, since the damage makes it difficult to groom the snowmobile trails.

14)              SALT SHED:  The Selectboard has submitted the grant application for a new salt shed.  The initial estimate for the work is $40,000.

15)       EXPENSES, PERMITS & PAYROLL:  Selectboard members read and signed reports for General Expenses and Payroll. They approved a liquor license for Tim’s Convenience. The Selectboard approved the minutes of the March 21, 2006 Selectboard meeting with one small change, and noted a correction to the town meeting minutes:  Dwight Duke was elected as second constable (not Dwight Baker).

Respectfully submitted,

Bobbi Brimblecombe, Town Clerk

The foregoing is a true copy of the Minutes of the April 4, 2006 Selectboard Meeting.

A True Record.  Attest, ______________________________________, Town Clerk

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MINUTES - MARSHFIELD SELECTBOARD MEETING

DATE:                         April 18, 2006

CONVENED:              7:00 p.m.

ADJOURNED             9:55 p.m.

PRESENT:                   Selectboard: Laura Johnson, Christopher Martin, John Warshow

                                    Town Clerk: Bobbi Brimblecombe

                                    Visitors: Jon Groveman (DRB), Parker Nichols, Frank & Carol Bandy, Sharon Fitzpatrick

1)         DRB Vacancy:  Jon Groveman has informed the Selectboard of his intention to resign from the Development Review Board.  He has spoken with Parker Nichols about the position, and Parker attended the meeting with Jon to express his interest in filling the vacancy.  His background is in Historic Preservation and Environmental Studies, and he owns a specialty lumber company in Plainfield.  After speaking with him, the Selectboard agreed that he is qualified but they felt that the vacancy needs to be advertised before they make a decision.  Parker agreed that everyone should be allowed the opportunity to be considered.  Bobbi will advertise the vacancy and set up interviews for the next Selectboard meeting.

2)         DOGS:  John has received complaints from Sharon Fitzpatrick about dogs belonging to Frank & Carol Bandy, and from Mr. and Mrs. Bandy concerning Ms. Fitzpatrick stopping in front of their house to train her dog while their dogs are out on a run, antagonizing their dogs. John invited all of the parties to come in and air their grievances in an effort to improve neighborhood relations.  Chris expressed frustration that the Selectboard has to act as babysitters; he feels that people should be good neighbors and the Town shouldn’t have to referee.  When Ms. Fitzpatrick first complained about the dogs, Mr. and Mrs. Bandy committed to putting up a fence or run to keep their dogs on their own property – they have since done that, and the dogs no longer leave the property. The dogs bark when Ms. Fitzpatrick passes by with her dog, and she uses barking dogs as a distraction for training purposes.  She feels that the Bandy dogs should be trained not to bark, but Laura views that as an unreasonable request.  John stated that he finds it incredulous that Ms. Fitzpatrick can’t train her dog without stopping in front of the Bandy residence, but Ms. Fitzpatrick stated that it is a free country.  She then showed Mr. and Mrs. Bandy and the Board a cattle prod that she will use against any dog that attacks her.  Laura stated to Ms. Fitzpatrick that she shouldn’t be threatening people.  Chris ended the discussion by telling Mr. and Mrs. Bandy that the Town is satisfied that they have done what was requested and the Town has no more issue with their dogs.

3)         BURNING:  Chris received a complaint from Dennis and Donna Bryer about someone burning something on Bunker Hill Circle.  They had already spoken with Fire Warden Tom Maclay, who confirmed that he had issued a burn permit to the Brickeys but that he does not visit each residence to see what is being burned.  Chris visited the Brickey residence and spoke with them.  They stated that they would not be burning anything that would be prohibited.  The Selectboard, acting as the Board of Health, will suggest to Tom that he not issue any burn permits in the Village Residential zoning district.

4)         ROADS:  Chris has spoken with John Schmitt about how VAST can help keep motorized vehicles off the Thompson Road.  Chris will invite him to a Selectboard meeting to discuss it.

            Chris received a complaint from James Clark regarding drainage on the Starpudding Farm Road.  Water from the road is going onto his property; Laura confirmed this.  Chris will talk to Dan about it, and the Board will look at the situation when they make their tour of Town roads on May 6^th.

            Bobbi has spoken with Dan about a drainage complaint on Gilman Street.  Dan plans to replace a culvert at the Bronstein-Paritz residence this summer, but that will only solve part of the problem; a culvert is also needed at the bottom of Ellie Blachly’s driveway on Mrs. Gilman’s property in order to keep the driveway from washing out.

5)         ZONING:  Town Attorney Paul Gillies has received word that Helene Ellis has passed away, so he will find out who will be in charge of her property on Route 2.

            Chris has spoken again with the Morris family and their engineer is supposed to send a letter certifying their septic system.  Chris will follow up with them.

6)         INTERIM ZONING:  The Selectboard has received a request from Jenny Warshow, asking them to implement interim zoning to clarify the road-frontage requirements in Marshfield’s zoning regulations.  John explained that he and Jenny are concerned that the provision allowing a 50’ right-of-way could be incorrectly interpreted to negate the requirement for minimum road frontage.  Laura believes that this provision does not negate the road frontage requirement, and is intended to allow for dwellings behind existing roadside dwellings.  Chris agreed that clustering houses along a 50’ right-of-way might be better than spacing them every 250’ along the town road.  Both Laura and Chris voiced concerns that interim zoning should be used only in emergency situations, and the issue is too complicated for the Selectboard to solve without involving the Planning Commission.  After discussion the Board agreed that the zoning regulations are confusing and they can’t determine the intent of the right-of-way provision, interim zoning is a severe measure, and they will wait for input from the Planning Commission.

7)         WINOOSKI RIVER:  Laura informed the Board that the Winooski River Headwaters Project will be planting trees at the Halstead-Johnson residence (the curly horse farm) on Route 2 on May 13^th.

8)         EXPENSES, PERMITS & PAYROLL:  Selectboard members read and signed reports for General Expenses and Payroll.  

Respectfully submitted,

Bobbi Brimblecombe, Town Clerk

The foregoing is a true copy of the Minutes of the April 18, 2006 Selectboard Meeting.

A True Record.  Attest, ______________________________________, Town Clerk

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MINUTES - MARSHFIELD SELECTBOARD MEETING

DATE:                         May 2, 2006

CONVENED:              7:10 p.m.

ADJOURNED             9:55 p.m.

PRESENT:                   Selectboard: Laura Johnson, Christopher Martin, John Warshow

                                    Town Clerk: Bobbi Brimblecombe

                                    Visitors: Jon Groveman, Paul Sicely, Barbara Rose, Peter Surridge

1)         DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD:  The Selectboard spoke with Peter Surridge regarding his interest in serving on the Development Review Board. He has lived in Marshfield for 26 years and is recently retired.  He has served on the Barre Town Ambulance for many years.  The Board regretfully accepted Jon Groveman’s resignation from the DRB, and acknowledged his many years of service to the Board.  Because they have only heard from two people, the Selectboard decided to hold the position and readvertise to be sure the townspeople are aware of the vacancy before they make a decision.

2)         NATURE TRAIL:  Jon Groveman spoke to the Board about the condition of the nature trail. He informed the Board that the trail is used quite often and he would like to see something done about the erosion.  He would also like to have the one remaining stake removed from the old horseshoe pits, to prevent someone from getting hurt.  Bobbi reported that the new Conservation Commission is considering ways to remove the invasive Japanese Knotweed that is growing along the trail. The Board agreed to meet with Jon, Road Foreman Dan Tetreault, Tom Maclay, and the Conservation Commission to walk the trail and plan repairs.

3)         SPEED LIMIT:  Paul Sicely and Barbara Rose presented a petition with 45 signatures, asking to have the speed limit lowered on a section of the Groton Forest Road.  They listed several reasons, including blind driveways, horses, a daycare, tourists, walkers, bikers and hikers.  The state controls the speed limit on state roads but a request to lower the speed limit must come from the Selectboard.  John moved to have Bobbi send a letter to the State Transportation Board, asking them to do a traffic study on the Groton Forest Road to determine the feasibility of lowering the speed limit to 35 mph from the cemetery to the Peacham Pond turn.  Laura seconded – all in favor.  

4)         ZONING: Zoning Administrator Bob Light has received the certification regarding the Morris septic system.

5)         DOGS:  The Selectboard received a letter from James Jamele who is representing Sharon Fitzpatrick.  The Selectboard instructed Bobbi to send him a copy of the minutes of the last Selectboard meeting.

6)         COVERED BRIDGE:  The Board reviewed the easement documents that they have but they did not contain provisions to allow a pavilion at the site.  The Board asked Bobbi to obtain the updated version from the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board.

7)         PLANNING COMMISSION:  The Selectboard received a letter from Dina Bookmyer-Baker, expressing interest in serving on the Planning Commission.  The Selectboard is reluctant to appoint a second person from the same household, and her husband is currently serving on the Planning Commission.  They instructed Bobbi to send a letter, indicating that they would consider her for some other office.

8)         EXPENSES, PERMITS & PAYROLL:  Selectboard members read and signed reports for General Expenses and Payroll.  The Selectboard approved the minutes of the April 4^th Selectboard meeting as drafted, and the April 18^th meeting with minor changes.

Respectfully submitted,

Bobbi Brimblecombe, Town Clerk

The foregoing is a true copy of the Minutes of the May 2, 2006 Selectboard Meeting.

A True Record.  Attest, ______________________________________, Town Clerk

*****************************************************************************************************

MINUTES - MARSHFIELD SELECTBOARD MEETING

DATE:                         May 6, 2006

CONVENED:              7:20 a.m.

ADJOURNED             10:50 a.m.

PRESENT:                   Selectboard: Laura Johnson, Christopher Martin, John Warshow

                                    Road Foreman: Dan Tetreault

The Board met with Dan at the Town Garage and proceeded to tour the town roads. 

The Board thinks guardrails are needed at the top of Folsom Hill where the power company cut the trees back from the roadside.

They stopped to look at the drainage issue by Lois Gilman’s house.  Art Gilman was home and talked to the Board about the problem.  It was decided to put a small ditch along the roadside in front of the Gilmans and a small culvert under the northernmost driveway.

The Board discussed thrown up roads and the Meyers lawsuit.  The Board thinks it would be good to dig up the files and see what roads may have been incorrectly thrown up.

A driveway culvert is needed at 4359 Hollister Hill Road.

The Board looked at the corner of the Hollister Hill Road by the Tibbitts house.  The trees that the road crew trimmed back are starting to grow in again.  Chris will talk to Andy Tibbetts about trimming them again.

Dan will replace the arrow before the corner at Tibbitts and fix the arrow by the corner of Hollister Hill and Eaton Cemetery Roads.

The Town needs to keep an eye on the beavers on Eaton Cemetery Road.

Dan talked to Ronald Pitkin.  Ronald said to go ahead and trap the beavers at Beaver Meadow.

The Board stopped on Starpudding Farm Road to look at drainage complaints from Jim Clark.  Dan is going to try to do something to divert water from going on to the Clarks’ lawn.

A “Keep Out” sign was placed at the entrance of the Loveland Cemetery.  Chris will call George Longenecker to get some history on this cemetery to see if it is town-owned or private.

The Board stopped at the Bryers’ house to have a look at the material in the Brickeys’ back yard and also the burn pile at the Brickeys.  It was noted that most of the properties in the Village district are very close.  The Board will talk with Tom Maclay to see about restricting burn permits in the Village district.

The Board will ask Bobbi to send trash letters to:

Peter Mayhew

David Lovely

Albert May

Lloyd Robinson

William Brooking

Lloyd Franks (trash and cars)

                                                                                    Respectfully submitted,

Christopher Martin, Selectboard Chair

The foregoing is a true copy of the Minutes of the May 6, 2006 Selectboard Meeting.

A True Record.  Attest, ______________________________________, Town Clerk

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MINUTES - MARSHFIELD SELECTBOARD MEETING

DATE:                         May 16, 2006

CONVENED:              7:00 p.m.

ADJOURNED             9:50 p.m.

PRESENT:                   Selectboard: Laura Johnson, Christopher Martin, John Warshow

                                    Town Clerk: Bobbi Brimblecombe

                                    Listers: Jackie DiMatteo, Lois Burnham, Winnie Valenza

                                    Visitors: John Schmitt, Ronald Pitkin

1)         LISTERS:  The Listers would like the Selectboard to request a 30-day extension for them to prepare the grand list.  In addition, they expressed concerns that they will not be able to finish the statistical update in time to get the tax bills out by mid-July.  They suggested postponing the update work until the fall, and applying the results to next year’s grand list.  The Selectboard disagreed, stating that they would prefer to have the update finished this year even if it means later tax bills and a later tax due date, rather than taking a chance that the state would force a complete reappraisal if our common level of appraisal falls below 80% at the end of this year.

2)         STATE LAND:  The tax department has notified the town of their appraised value of the Groton State Forest.  They have appraised the land at less than half of the value per acre that they placed on the Evergreen Timber property (formerly the Meyer property).  The Selectboard asked Bobbi to have the town attorney file a notice of appeal.

3)         SAND PILE:  Winnie reported that she has observed a group of children playing on the sand pile at the Town Garage.  The Selectboard expressed concern that no one should be on the sand pile because of the danger of it caving in.  Bobbi will put a notice in the Field Notes.

4)         SPEED LIMIT: Lois Burnham notified the Board that Dillon Wright has been speeding on Folsom Hill Road.  The Selectboard asked Bobbi to mention it to the Washington County Sheriff.

5)         DOGS:  Lois asked whether the dog belonging to Alina Schenkman has been licensed – it hasn’t.  The Selectboard asked Bobbi to write her a letter that the dog needs to be licensed.

6)         LISTERS:  Lois informed the Selectboard that she will not be running for the position of Lister at next year’s town meeting.

7)         THOMPSON ROAD:  The Selectboard discussed possible solutions to the problem of 4-wheel drive vehicles damaging the Thompson Road, a legal trail.  The Board authorized John Schmitt to install gates at either end of the road to keep motorized vehicles out.  Snowmobiles will still be allowed, as will pedestrians, horses, etc.

8)                  CEMETERIES:  The Selectboard and Cemetery Sexton Ronald Pitkin discussed possibilities for fixing the road in the Eaton Cemetery.  John Schmitt was authorized to excavate the area, bring in a load of stone and a load of staymat, for a price not to exceed $600.

9)                  COVERED BRIDGE:  The Selectboard discussed the grant agreement document from the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board (VHCB), the agency that has awarded the Town a $40,000 grant for the bridge project.  The Selectboard had questions about the relationship of this grant to the Agency of Transportation grant, and they are not sure the agreement is consistent with the VHCB resolution.  The Selectboard authorized Chris to sign the agreement, but instructed Bobbi to hold the agreement until the questions are resolved.

10)              PERSONNEL:  At 9:40, Laura moved to enter executive session to discuss a personnel issue.  John seconded – all in favor.  The Board returned to open session at 9:50.

11)       EXPENSES, PERMITS & PAYROLL:  Selectboard members read and signed reports for General Expenses and Payroll.  

Respectfully submitted,

Bobbi Brimblecombe, Town Clerk

The foregoing is a true copy of the Minutes of the May 16, 2006 Selectboard Meeting.

A True Record.  Attest, ______________________________________, Town Clerk

*****************************************************************************************************

MINUTES - MARSHFIELD SELECTBOARD MEETING

DATE:                         June 6, 2006

CONVENED:              6:30 p.m.

ADJOURNED             9:05 p.m.

PRESENT:                   Selectboard: Laura Johnson, Christopher Martin

                                    Town Clerk: Bobbi Brimblecombe

                                    Visitors: Tom Maclay, Jon Groveman, Dan Tetreault (Road Foreman), Ron Wells, Mike Fritz

1)         NATURE TRAIL: The Board met with Jon Groveman, Tom Maclay, and Dan Tetreault to walk the nature trail and discuss the erosion that has taken place.  Dan will install a used culvert and recycled ditching material.

2)         LEGAL TRAIL: Ron Wells approached the Board to discuss a curb cut application. His sister is building a house on Pike Road and she wants to have a driveway off of an old road that branches off of Pike Road.  They understand that the old road is still a legal trail and the public will still have access to it even if they use part of it as a driveway.  They would be using 75’ of the legal trail and then turning off for their driveway.  They understand that the legal trail could some day be converted back to a Class 4 or Class 3 road.  Chris moved to give William and Elizabeth Larsen permission to use the legal trail off Pike Road to access their property, to give them permission to upgrade the legal trail, and to grant their curb cut, with the understanding that their will be no cost to the Town.  Laura seconded – all in favor.

3)         ANCIENT ROADS:  Mike Fritz spoke with the Board about new legislation regarding ancient roads.  He feels that the Town has a good network of roads shown on the town highway map and no further roads are needed at this time.

4)         ROADS:  Dan Tetreault informed the Board that he has received a request from Russell and Waneta Mayhew regarding their property on Beaver Meadow Road.  They want the Town to extend a cross culvert to the brook behind their house.  This would allow them to fill in the drainage ditch that currently takes water from the cross culvert to the brook.  Dan is reluctant because a culvert that long would be impossible to thaw if it freezes, and it would be likely to heave and freeze because it is such a long run from the road to the brook.  The Board agreed, and told Dan to speak with the Mayhews and invite them to a Selectboard meeting if they wish to discuss it further.

5)         REAPPRAISAL:  The Listers did not appear at the meeting but Bobbi informed the Board that work on the reappraisal is progressing.

6)         DOGS:  The Selectboard signed the Warrant to Kill Unlicensed Dogs but asked Bobbi to send another letter to all dog owners before mailing the warrant to the dog officer.

7)         EXPENSES, PERMITS & PAYROLL:  Selectboard members read and signed reports for General Expenses and Payroll.  

Respectfully submitted,

Bobbi Brimblecombe, Town Clerk

The foregoing is a true copy of the Minutes of the June 6, 2006 Selectboard Meeting.

A True Record.  Attest, ______________________________________, Town Clerk

*****************************************************************************************************

MINUTES - MARSHFIELD SELECTBOARD MEETING

DATE:                         June 20, 2006

CONVENED:              7:00 p.m.

ADJOURNED             10:30 p.m.

PRESENT:                   Selectboard: Laura Johnson, Christopher Martin

                                    Town Clerk: Bobbi Brimblecombe (left at 8:30)

                                    Visitors: Janet Ancel, Waneta and Russell Mayhew, Tad Cochrane, Rich Phillips, John Johnson

1)         REAPPRAISAL:  Bobbi informed the Selectboard that the Listers’ computer has been infected with numerous viruses.  John Warshow has donated a computer to the Town, and a consultant is working to recover the data from the old computer and transfer it to the new computer.

2)         LEGISLATION:  Janet Ancel spoke with the Board to update them on legislation passed during the session.

3)         CULVERT:  Russell and Waneta Mayhew and Tad Cochrane approached the Board for permission to install a culvert in the drainage ditch on their property.  They feel the ditch should be filled because children have fallen into it.  The Board reiterated Dan’s concerns that the culvert could freeze and cause problems for the Town.  Mr. Cochrane does not believe the culvert will ever freeze and stated that the ditch has very little water in it, and none in the winter.  Laura noted that the Mayhews bought the property with the ditch there, and the problem was not created by the Town, the Town’s culvert was in place before the mobile home was put in, and the driveway next to the ditch is not the original driveway location.  Chris noted that the Town has many problems with frozen culverts, especially in the spring during the cycles of freezing and thawing.  Mr. Cochrane and the Mayhews stressed that they are not asking the Town to install the culvert, but merely asking for permission to do the work.  Chris noted that if the culvert is on private land and is not connected to the Town culvert, no permission is needed, but they can’t connect to the Town’s culvert without permission.  The Board agreed that they need to discuss the issue further with Dan.  Chris agreed to meet with the Mayhews and Dan to view the site.

4)         ELECTIONS:  Bobbi notified the Board that she has received a grant of $2,995 to purchase a laptop computer and software and to make improvements to the building to improve the administration of elections.

5)         DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD: The DRB has been having difficulty recently getting full attendance at board hearings.  The Selectboard read the DRB rules of procedure and found that the Selectboard has already authorized the appointment of Planning Commission members as alternates.

6)         DOGS:  The Selectboard has received a letter from Sharon Fitzpatrick accusing the Board of a breach of protocol arising from a dispute between Ms. Fitzpatrick and John Warshow.  Chris pointed at several inaccuracies in the letter:  the Board was not dealing with the issue of her obedience methods, but were trying to mediate a dispute that she has with neighbors Frank and Carol Bandy.  Chris and Laura were not aware of any conflict of interest, and Ms. Fitzpatrick never mentioned any dispute that she has or has had with John.  The Town has not received a report of any complaints from Ms. Fitzpatrick or anyone else regarding John’s dogs.  John did not say anything to attempt to control her access to the road.  No decisions were made, and when Ms. Fitzpatrick was asked whether the Bandy dogs’ barking was a nuisance, she stated that she wasn’t making a complaint about barking. 

(Minutes taken by Laura Johnson from 8:30 p.m. to 10:30 pm)

7)         MARTIN COVERED BRIDGE UPDATE: Rich Phillips and John Johnson were

present and up-dated the Selectboard on the following topics:

      1.   Status of Conservation and Historic Preservation Easements

Karen Freeman of the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board, will send Rich a copy of the revised draft of the Conservation and Historic Preservation Easement agreement on June 21, 2006. 

John noted that the committee is waiting for the archeological study to be completed by the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board.  This needs to be done before a permanent location is chosen for the pavilion.

2.   Karen Freeman has answered the Selectboard’s questions concerning the grant agreement.  Chris moved and Laura seconded the motion to accept the grant agreement.

3.   Rich presented and reviewed the Interim Management Plan required by the grant.  Karen has a copy of the plan and will make comments to Rich.  Rich will make any changes and will get a copy of the final draft to Bobbi, Laura, Chris and John for their review.

4.   Rich has developed the RFQ for a landscape architect and a trail designer.  The RFQs have been sent to eight companies and just the Trail Design RFQ to one more company.  John, Nathan and Rich will review the submitted proposals, using the criteria in the RFQs, and make a recommendation to the Selectboard on July 18, 2006.

8)         BIDS FOR #2 HEATING FUEL AND LOW SULPHUR FUEL: Two bids for #2 heating oil and low sulfur diesel fuel were opened.  Laura moved and Chris seconded the motion to accept the lowest bid, which was from Calkins Oil and Excavating, Inc.  The fixed price for #2 heating oil is $2.519 per gallon for 8,000 gallons or from July 1, 2006 to June 30, 2007, whichever comes first.  The cost of low sulfur diesel fuel was their cost plus their adder of $.27 per gallon

The other bid from Gillespie Fuels, Inc. for #2 heating oil was for a fixed rate of $2.64.  Low sulfur diesel fuel would be the wholesale price plus their adder of $.34 per gallon.

9)         SAND BIDS: Three bids for sand were opened.  Chris moved and Laura seconded the motion to accept the lowest bid, which was for washed sand at $6.00 per ton at the pit owned by McCullough Crushing, Inc.  Albert St. Cyr will truck the sand to either the Marshfield or Plainfield garage for $2.12 per ton.   Before Albert begins trucking he will need to provide to the town, “proof of insurance” documentation.

The other bid was from Pike Industries, Inc.  The cost for 3500 cy of washed sand, delivered to the Marshfield Town Garage was $19.85 cy and the cost for 1500 cy of sand delivered to the Plainfield Town Garage was $15.85 cy. .  (There is approximately 1.3 tons per cubic yard.)

10)       SPEED PATROLS: The Washington County Sheriff Department’s contract for 2006-2007 was signed.  Laura moved and Chris seconded the motion to set the contract price at $1500.

11)       EXPENSES, PERMITS & PAYROLL:  Selectboard members read and signed reports for General Expenses and Payroll.  The Selectboard approved the minutes of the May 16, 2006 Selectboard meeting.

Respectfully submitted,

Bobbi Brimblecombe, Town Clerk and

Laura Johnson, Selectboard Member

The foregoing is a true copy of the Minutes of the June 20, 2006 Selectboard Meeting.

A True Record.  Attest, ______________________________________, Town Clerk

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MINUTES – MARSHFIELD SPECIAL SELECTBOARD MEETING

DATE:                         June 28, 2006

CONVENED:              7:00 p.m.

ADJOURNED             7:42 p.m.

PRESENT:                   Selectboard: Christopher Martin, John Warshow

                                    Town Clerk: Bobbi Brimblecombe

                                    Visitors: Rich Phillips, Tim Maclay

1)         FIRE CHIEF:  Chris moved to accept Tom Maclay’s resignation as Fire Chief.  John seconded – all in favor.  Chris moved to appoint Tim Maclay as Fire Chief.  John seconded – all in favor.

2)         COVERED BRIDGE:  John moved to authorize any member of the Marshfield Selectboard to execute the Grant of Development Rights, Conservation Restrictions, and Public Access Easement to the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board, the Grant of Historic Preservation Easement to the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board and the Preservation Trust of Vermont, and the adoption of the Interim Management Plan.  Chris seconded – all in favor.  The Board authorized the Town Clerk to sign the Property Transfer Tax Returns for the above deeds, and to make sure the Vermont Housing & Conservation Board is provided with Title Insurance as requested.

3)         EXPENSES, PERMITS & PAYROLL:  Selectboard members approved two curb cut permits for Dennis and Helen Ducharme.

Respectfully submitted,

Christopher Martin, Selectboard Chair

The foregoing is a true copy of the Minutes of the June 28, 2006 Special Selectboard Meeting.

A True Record.  Attest, ______________________________________, Town Clerk

*****************************************************************************************************

MINUTES - MARSHFIELD SELECTBOARD MEETING

DATE:                         July 18, 2006

CONVENED:              7:00 p.m. (following Board of Abatement and Board of Civil Authority Meetings)

ADJOURNED             9:06 p.m.

PRESENT:                   Selectboard: Laura Johnson, Christopher Martin, John Warshow

                                    Town Clerk: Bobbi Brimblecombe

                                    Visitors: Larry Babic, Lois Burnham

1)         DOGS:  Lois reported that the dog that killed her kitten is still loose and still coming down to her house.  John called Dillon Wright – he says he only has 2 dogs, both registered, akita/wolf hybrids, and they are kept in a kennel with 6-foot fences.  His neighbor has a white husky.  He says his dogs are never loose.  Lois has seen it off his property 4 times.  Chris moved to send him a letter saying the dogs have to be kept on the property and can’t be running at large.  John seconded – all in favor.  The Board authorized dog officer Jo Guertin to spend some time to check in occasionally. 

2)         DELINQUENT TAXES:  Lois updated the board on the status of the delinquent tax list.  All 2003 taxes are paid except one, and that will be cleared up soon.

3)         ROADS:  Larry Babic approached the Selectboard about Clarence George Road.  He said he realizes the road hasn’t been used for a long time but it is a class 3 road and he would like to see town services down there.  He also said no money has been put into the road in 30 years so maybe it is time.  He then questioned whether John could make decisions about the road since he would like to have bought the property, but he values John’s input because he knows the property.  John replied that he doesn’t have a problem making an impartial decision but he won’t participate in the decision because of the appearance of conflict.

John read the standards for class 3 roads from the Transportation Information Exchange.  There are two issues: what standard does it get brought up to and who pays for it.  Larry stated that they are not looking for a wide road – just wide enough to get town plow trucks and emergency vehicles through.  It’s 8 to 9 feet wide at the narrowest point, and drops off at the edge of the road – filling isn’t an option.  It needs to be cut back on the other side.  Dan would like to see the road 15 feet wide, plus a ditch.  One tree needs to come down.

Laura asked if we are obligated to bring the road up to class 3 standards.  Larry replied that the Town fixed it up to Pat Martin’s driveway.  Chris replied that he is comparing apples to oranges, because the town only put down gravel and cut brush, and it didn’t cost much.  Bobbi mentioned that the other option is to reclassify the road as class 4.  Larry asked what that would mean.  It would mean that the town would give up state aid for the road, and would not be required to maintain it.  Larry asked what that would mean for whether they could build.  Bobbi explained that changing the road classification does not automatically change the Town zoning map.

Laura told Larry that the Town’s letters last year indicate that we decided not to do winter maintenance, but would maintain it if he did the blasting.  It seems that he is asking us to revisit the decision that we made.  Larry replied that he is now planning to live there.  Laura noted that the board made the decision assuming that he would be living there.

John reported that last year Dan spent about $2,000 resurfacing, ditching, culverts.  Chris asked if the Babics would consider splitting the cost.  Larry said maybe but my funds are limited.  John explained that the Town is over budget already on several line items.  The Board did not make any decision but would like to see a cost estimate for the work.  The Board suggested that the Babics wait until Dan is back before they have a contractor quote on this so that everyone is in agreement about what needs to be done.  Chris will talk to Dan when he gets back from vacation.

4)         SALT SHED:  The state has approved the stormwater grant pending further review.

5)         COVERED BRIDGE: The Selectboard executed the easement deeds and interim management plan.  The Town has received the $40,000 from the Vermont Housing & Conservation Fund.

6)         SPEED LIMIT:  The requested traffic study has been completed on the Groton Forest Road.  The State does not recommend changing the speed limit.  The traffic bureau will meet on July 28^th.

7)         TOWN PLAN:  The Central Vermont Regional Planning Commission (CVRPC) has approved the Town Plan.  CVRPC is reviewing the floodplain regulations in several area towns for compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program.

8)         UNIFORMS:  Palmer Brothers has tried to hold the Town to a contract that was signed several years ago.  The Road Crew has switched to Unifirst.  Town Attorney Paul Gillies has written to Palmer Brothers to point out that the contract is not valid.

9)         PRINTER:  Scott Batchelder has offered the Town $200.00 for the dot matrix printer that the Town used to use.  Since it is no longer needed, the Board accepted his offer.

10)       ROADS: Chris and Road Foreman Dan Tetreault looked at the Russell and Waneta Mayhew property on Beaver Meadow Road.  The Board agreed that if they leave 3 to 4 foot section to access our culvert, they can go ahead.  They can cover the access location with a grate if they choose.  They will have to maintain the culvert on their property.

11)       ZONING:  The Board has been asked whether they would grant curb cuts for the proposed subdivision on Laird Pond Road.  The Board asked Bobbi to send the DRB a letter that we are concerned about the proposed development with regard to curb cuts and the ability of the road to handle additional traffic and the cumulative effect that changes to natural drainage would have on the road.  They are not taking a position but advising the DRB to consider these and related issues during their deliberations.

12)       HEALTH CONCERNS:  The Board (as the Board of Health) sent a letter to Rory Daily about contaminated water on Maple Hill.  The spring on the Daily property tested positive for E. coli bacteria.

13)       BUDGET:  John noted that he is concerned about the budget this year because of fuel prices and the prolonged mud season.

14)       SIDEWALK:  Bruce Westcott asked to have the sidewalk plowed on the Cabot Road.

15)       ROADS:  Bruce Westcott complained that the triangle at the Route 2/Cabot Road intersection is an unsightly weed patch.   He would like to plant flowers, and would like the Selectboard to endorse this and include a line item in next year’s budget.  The Board will suggest that he solicit donations.

16)       EXPENSES, PERMITS & PAYROLL:  Selectboard members read and signed reports for General Expenses and Payroll.  The Selectboard approved the minutes of the May 2, June 6, June 20, and June 28, 2006 Selectboard meetings.

Respectfully submitted,

Bobbi Brimblecombe, Town Clerk

The foregoing is a true copy of the Minutes of the July 18, 2006 Selectboard Meeting.

A True Record.  Attest, ______________________________________, Town Clerk

*****************************************************************************************************

MINUTES - MARSHFIELD SELECTBOARD MEETING

DATE:                         August 1, 2006

CONVENED:              7:16 p.m.

ADJOURNED:            10:10 p.m.

PRESENT:                   Selectboard: Christopher Martin, John Warshow, Laura Johnson

                                    Town Clerk: Bobbi Brimblecombe

                                    Visitors: Rich Phillips, D.J. Willey, Sean Willey, Tom Maclay

1)                  MOWING:  D.J. Willey appeared to talk about his roses, which were cut during the recent mowing.  He said:  the town has no problem with trucks and motor homes parking on his side of the road; they block the view going east.  He pays taxes on his property and on the triangle that gets smaller and smaller every year.  He got in trouble for parking a cement mixer on the triangle.  The road crew made him move it.  He is a 100% disabled Vietnam era vet and they mangled his roses.  The roses are on his property, not town property.  They are that high to protect his property from dust and noise.  They weren’t blocking the view if they pulled forward to the stop sign.  They didn’t block nearly as much as the trucks.  They didn’t bother to cut the bushes that block the stop sign.  He is very upset and angry.  They are obviously not concerned with safety because the trees are allowed to grow over stop signs.  The stop sign at the end of Gilman Street is not visible going onto Route 2.  He feels that the property where the slip ramp is (between Route 2 and the Cabot Road) was taken from the property owner.  It was a pathway for the property owner’s own use that was taken over by the town 15 years ago.  Laura asked whether he owned it at that time – he didn’t own it then but he still pays taxes on it.  He said the triangle is getting smaller every year but he’s still paying taxes on it.  His slate walkway has also been destroyed by the snow plows.  If he doesn’t get compensated, he will take the Board to small claims court and get compensated.  He has heard from others that many people have complained about the mowing job this year.  John asked:  Is your position that we mowed recklessly in the right of way or is your position that they are not in the right of way?  DJ replied that it was maliciously done.  It wasn’t in the right of way of Route 2 or Cabot Rd – only through the slip ramp which does not belong to you.  He brought  pictures showing the cut down bushes.  He stated that no reasonable person could justify what was done to the roses, and the court will agree with him.  John asked for the letters to and from the town attorney regarding the slip ramp.  D.J. left to get the letters.  When he returned, he brought pictures of the stop sign at the intersection of Gilman Street and Route 2, showing that the stop sign is obstructed by trees.  He feels that if the road crew is so concerned with visibility and safety, they should be trimming the trees in front of stop signs rather than butchering his roses.  John stated: we are trying to figure out if we did anything outside our right of way, and we are trying to figure out if we treated you any differently than everyone else.

The Board will try to get the missing letters before the next Selectboard meeting and D.J. Willey will try to come back to the next Selectboard meeting.  The Board will ask the town attorney whether the town has the right of way.

2)                  MOWING: Marion Clark called Chris to complain about the mowing.  He feels the purpose is to cut the brush back so that it doesn’t have to be done by hand because that is dangerous work.  It looks ragged now but it will look better in a couple of weeks.  The brush can’t be cut at ground level because of the stones.  It is quicker and safer than doing it by hand.  This is the best job they have done so far.  This won’t be a problem next year because this brush will be lower.

3)                  FIRE DEPT SCAM:  Tom Maclay reported that someone has been calling town residents asking for donations for the Marshfield Fire Department.  The Fire Department does not have any fundraising campaign going on, so it appears to be a scam.  The Professional Firefighters of Vermont are a legitimate organization; they conducting a telemarketing campaign, and Laura wonders if they could be confused with the Marshfield Fire Department.  Tom will report it to the State Police and/or the Attorney General’s Office.  The Marshfield Fire Department does not call asking for donations.  They accept donations, but all donations need to be mailed to the Town Clerk’s Office.

4)                  COWS:  Philip Leibold called John to report that something spooked his cows and they were out.  John confirmed that the Leibolds had a really good fence and it appeared that it may have been a bear that spooked them.

5)                  FIRE DEPARTMENT:  The Department needs new fire gear for new members.  It costs about $1,000 per person to outfit a fire fighter.  They will probably need to dip into the Capital Equipment Fund to pay for new gear.

6)                  EXECUTIVE SESSION: At 8:30, Chris moved that we go into executive session to discuss potential contracts regarding the covered bridge.  Laura seconded – all in favor.  The Board returned to open session at 9:00.  Laura moved to negotiate a contract with Jean Vissering as landscape architect on the covered bridge project, and if negotiations are not successful, to negotiate a contract with Cindy Knauf.   Chris seconded.  Chris and Laura voted in favor; John abstained because he has employed both architects in the past.

7)                  ROADS:  The Board received a call from Jim Clark reminding the Board of the drainage problem from Starpudding Farm Road onto his property. Chris will call him and let him know that Dan plans to see what can be done about it.

8)                  CEMETERIES:  Bobbi notified the Board that a CD has matured in the cemetery fund, and she asked how much cash should be held in reserve.  No major work is planned for this year, so the Board authorized Bobbi to purchase another CD for one year.

9)                  COPIER:  The Board authorized Bobbi to buy another copier from Copiers Etc. for a cost of $370.

10)              TAX ANTICIPATION NOTE:  The Board executed a line of credit tax anticipation note in the amount of $75,000 at an interest rate of 4.00%.  The note is needed because taxes will be later than anticipated.

11)              ROADS:  The Selectboard reviewed the old town highway maps and discontinuance orders to discuss the current status of several town roads and legal trails.  The Board will meet with Town Attorney Paul Gillies to determine the status of some of the old roads in light of discrepancies with recording, and in light of new legislation.

Chris talked to Dan about the Clarence George Road.  Dan will talk to a blaster to get estimates for what it would cost to bring the road up to Class 3 standards.

12)       EXPENSES, PERMITS & PAYROLL:  Selectboard members read and signed reports for General Expenses and Payroll.  The Selectboard approved the minutes of the May 6 and July 18, 2006 Selectboard meetings.

Respectfully submitted,

Bobbi Brimblecombe, Town Clerk

The foregoing is a true copy of the Minutes of the August 1, 2006 Selectboard Meeting.

A True Record.  Attest, ______________________________________, Town Clerk

*****************************************************************************************************

MINUTES – MARSHFIELD SELECTBOARD MEETING

DATE:                         August 15, 2006

CONVENED:              7:06 p.m.

ADJOURNED:            10:20 p.m.

PRESENT:                   Selectboard: Christopher Martin, John Warshow, Laura Johnson

                                    Town Clerk: Bobbi Brimblecombe

Visitors: Mary Ann Klimas (Health Officer), Alan Whitcomb, Larry Babic, Patty Joslin, Nathan Phillips

1)                  HEALTH ORDER: Mary Ann Klimas reported that she received a phone call from Charles Gurrera, who rented from Michael and Debra Sioufi on Sioufi road.  He had several complaints regarding electricity, heat, etc.  Mary Ann and Laura did a rental housing inspection on July 30^th and found a dilapidated structure with numerous health hazards.  Mary Ann submitted a report of her inspection along with photos.  The tenant was moving out, and Mary Ann feels that the structure should not be rented again.  A letter was sent to the Sioufis with a copy of the report and some of the pictures, informing them that she would seek a health order at tonight’s meeting to prevent the structure from being rented.  Michael Sioufi called Mary Ann, indicating that he would like to have someone living there.  The Town then received a letter from the Sioufis’ attorney, stating that the town did not give the Sioufis enough notice before the hearing, and asking that the town allow the Sioufis to voluntarily comply without a health order.  Mary Ann rescheduled the hearing for September 19^th, and notice was re-sent to the Sioufis.  Mary Ann is concerned about allowing voluntary compliance because the property is not visible from the road, and the road is gated.  Monitoring for voluntary compliance will be discussed at the hearing. 

2)                  DOGS: Neither Dillon Wright nor Lois Burnham attended the meeting, so the ongoing dog issue was not discussed.

3)                  ROADS:  Dan submitted a report of expenses to date on the lower section of Clarence George Road (the section between the Martin driveway and the Babic/Joslin property), totaling $6,279, not including labor. Chris noted that this is a conservative account because the rates that Dan used for equipment were lower than the cost of renting equipment.  Dan also submitted an estimate of costs to finish the road to bring it up to the standard required to provide winter maintenance.  That estimate is $13,702.05, but that number is probably also low because the blasting cost has increased.  Laura stated that the decision was made last year to do the grading and ditching that has already been done, but not the blasting.  Patty stated that the town has been collecting taxes for several years on this property.  Larry stated that when Pat and Karin Martin moved in, a decision was made to upgrade the road.  Chris stated that the Town put in a couple of loads of gravel and maybe cut some brush – that was all.  The road crew has already done that and more to the lower section of the road.  They are looking at a large chunk of money for a road that serves only one house.  Larry would like to know how many Class 3 roads are not maintained in the winter.  Laura stated that it is not in the town budget to just spend over $13,000 for one road.  She stated that the Town has the authority to deny the request outright because of safety concerns.  Larry feels that the decision has been made to maintain the road and if you maintain part of the road, you need to maintain the entire road.  Chris stated that we simply don’t have the money to bring the road up to the standards necessary to make it safe to maintain in the winter.  Larry stated that the town didn’t want to deal with this last year and they didn’t push it because they weren’t ready to build.  Laura replied that the town did make a decision last year – the request was denied, and she doesn’t see what circumstances have changed to make them come back and request it again.  This would cost everyone in town and no one would benefit except one family.  Chris asked if they would be willing to split the cost with the town.  Larry asked if they paid for part of the cost, would the town give them a break on their taxes?  Bobbi stated that a tax exemption would have to be voted on by the taxpayers.  After more discussion, Chris and Laura stated that if the Babics have the drilling and blasting done, the town would do the cleanup, but scheduling would be up to Road Foreman Dan Tetreault.  The Babics will look into having the drilling and blasting done.  If they do the blasting, the town is willing to do the cleanup work. If the road is blasted to 20 feet, the town will consider plowing; if the road is not 20 feet wide, the town will not consider plowing it.  When they get a price, they will talk to Dan to work out a timeline.  Larry asked whether the town would continue to maintain the road if nothing is done; the board stated that the town would continue summer maintenance. 

4)                  ZONING AMENDMENTS: The Planning Commission has submitted the proposed zoning amendments to the Selectboard.  Jenny Warshow submitted (to the Planning Commission) proposed language to deal with road frontage issues, but the Planning Commission did not deal with the issue because they felt that the issue was controversial and they did not deal with controversial issues in this round, because they wanted to first deal with Chapter 117 changes.  She feels that the new Chapter 117 changes require this issue to be addressed. John asked the Board to consider her comments at the upcoming public hearing.  The Selectboard will hold their public hearing on September 5^th at 7:00 p.m.

5)                  TAX RATE:  The Board will hold a special meeting at 5:30 pm on August 24^th to set the tax rate.

6)                  JUNK CARS:  John has received a complaint about junk cars and fill being moved into the Russell Codling residence on Beaver Meadow Road.  John suggests a polite letter asking him to respond to the Selectboard.

7)                  CURB CUT:  The Selectboard reviewed Albert St. Cyr’s curb cut permit in response to an accident that occurred on Hollister Hill Road.  It appears that the curb cut has become wider over the years, reducing the site distance down the hill.  The Selectboard will consult with Albert to see if there is a way to make it safer.

8)                  COVERED BRIDGE:  Nathan Phillips updated the Board on the submittals for trail design and landscape architect.  The insurance requirements for consultants would seem to preclude many smaller firms; Nathan will follow up with Karen Freeman to see how other towns have handled those requirements.  The Board discussed how to gain access to the back of the property for bringing materials to build the trails.  The Board will ask the Town Attorney to look into the right-of-way issue on the railroad bed.

9)                  SALT SHED:  John moved that any member of the Board be authorized to sign the grant agreement for the stormwater mitigation grant from VTrans when it arrives.  Chris seconded – all in favor.

10)              ORDINANCE VIOLATION:  Lloyd Franks spoke with John to let the Board know that he is removing some cars and cleaning up.  Chris received a message from David Lovely regarding the violation letter that he received.

11)              LAND:  Phyllis Christiansen called Chris regarding a parcel of land between Upper and Lower Depot Road, bordering the river.  She would like to give the land to the town but is not sure of the process.  John moved to accept the land and have the town attorney draft a quit-claim deed, and to have the town pay the taxes this year.  Laura seconded – all in favor.

12)              EXPENSES, PERMITS & PAYROLL:  Selectboard members read and signed reports for General Expenses and Payroll.  The Selectboard approved the minutes of the August 1, 2006 Selectboard meeting.

The foregoing is a true copy of the Minutes of the August 15, 2006 Selectboard Meeting.

A True Record.  Attest, ______________________________________, Town Clerk

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MINUTES - MARSHFIELD SELECTBOARD MEETING

DATE:                         September 5, 2006

CONVENED:              7:00 p.m.

ADJOURNED             10:20 p.m.

PRESENT:                   Selectboard: Laura Johnson, Christopher Martin, John Warshow

                                    Town Clerk: Bobbi Brimblecombe

                                    Planning Commission: Jeanne Matthew, Wayne Kowalski, Mike Fritz

                                    Visitors: Russell Codling, Lois Burnham, Casper Lyford

1)         ZONING AMENDMENTS:  The Selectboard opened the public hearing on the proposed zoning amendments at 7:04 p.m.  The Commissioners explained that the Regional Planning Commission went through the town’s existing regulations and pointed out the places where our regulations were not consistent with the new state statutes.  The Commission did not introduce any new issues in this round of amendments, but merely wanted to get the town’s regulations in conformance with the new state statutes. 

            Laura asked about the section in the existing regulations that deals with a stay of enforcement.  It has been removed in the new amendments.  The Commissioners pointed out that that provision has been removed from the state statute.

            John asked about the issue of road frontage.  It has been brought up to the Planning Commission in March and again at their public hearing.  He asked why the issue was not dealt with in this draft.  The Commissioners stated that this is a total change in policy, because the DRB  has always allowed subdivisions with right-of-ways, and if right-of-ways are no longer allowed as a means to create a new subdivision, it will reduce the number of buildable lots that can be created.  The Commission would like to have a build-out anaylsis completed before they deal with this issue. 

            John asked what the purpose of the road frontage requirement is, if anyone can go to the DRB and skirt the road frontage requirement by granting a right-of-way.  Mike stated that the intent of the regulation as written is not known.  He feels that this is more than an administrative function, and the Commission did not want to get into that type of issue in this round.  Changing the way the road frontage issue is dealt with will result in changes to how people can use their property, and that should be carefully examined before any change is made.

            John stated that the new statutes require the town to establish a non-arbitrary procedure for dealing with lots that do not have the required road frontage.  The Commissioners again stated that they only wanted to deal with administrative details in this round of amendments.

            John stated that he has great respect for the Planning Commission, but he is disappointed that when this issue was brought to the Planning Commission’s attention in March it wasn’t addressed, and it was brought to their attention again at their hearing, and it wasn’t addressed.  He feels that the language is merely a clarification.  The Commissioners stated that this is going to be dealt with, and it is not the only issue that has been set aside to get the administrative changes made.  They have several issues that they need to prioritize.

             John moved to approve the regulations as presented by the Planning Commission on July 27, 2006 and warn them for a vote at the November election.  Chris seconded – all in favor.  Wayne will see that something about the vote is published in the next Field Notes.  The public hearing adjourned at 8:10 p.m.

2)         ORDINANCE VIOLATION:  Russell Codling approached the Selectboard to discuss the letter that he received.  He stated that he is state certified to receive fill from the state, and Chris is not.  The State will allow him to receive up to 500 yards per year.  In the Zoning Regulations, he would only need a zoning permit if he received more than 1,000 yards.  He also stated that he has a state permit to receive junk cars.  He received the permit 40 years ago.  The cars are brought in on the weekend and they are brought out during the week.  He said he doesn’t keep cars there.  The Board is receiving complaints from his neighbor and he thinks the complaints are frivolous.  The Board thanked him for coming in and apologized for taking up his time.

3)         DOG:  Lois came to discuss Dillon Wright’s dog.  The dog is still loose and comes to her house.  Dillon has dropped off pictures of two of his dogs.  He claims that it was one of his wolf-hybrids that killed the cat, and the wolf-hybrids are kept in a kennel.  He admitted that his akita is not in a pen but he doesn’t think the akita does any harm.  The Board asked Lois what she would like done.  She doesn’t think the Board can do anything now.  The Board asked her to get a picture of the dog off its property.

4)         TOWN GARAGE:  Casper asked what the town will do about the town garage roof.  John replied that the  Board had planned to sandblast and paint it this year, but because we are over budget on gravel and fuel, the roof will have to wait until next year.

5)         SALT SHED:  Dan is worried that he won’t have enough time to get the salt shed built in time for winter, so he will try to get concrete blocks to shore up the sides to get through this winter.

6)         ROADS:  John reported that Road Foreman Dan Tetreault was wondering whether the Town had reached an agreement with Patty and Larry Babic.  Chris met with them and a blasting contactor to go over what the Town could do and what they would have to do.  The Town has agreed that when the blasting is done, Dan will clean out the blasted material.  The Town will not be setting mats or cutting trees.  After the Road Crew’s other fall work is completed, they will perform ditching.  Chris questioned whether the Town could commit to plowing in the winter even after the blasting is complete.

7)                  ZONING VIOLATION:  The Environmental Court dismissed our complaint because both of the owners are deceased.  The Town Attorney suggested that we ask the Health Officer to approach it as a health issue. 

8)                  LAND GIFTS:  Phyllis Christiansen has offered to give the Town some land between Upper and Lower Depot Road.  The Town Attorney will have to open an estate for the land before it can be quit-claimed to the Town.  Jane Sicely Parker has offered to donate land on School Street.  The Board asked Bobbi to send her a letter telling her we will accept the land.

9)                   HEALTH ISSUE:  The Health Officer has sent a letter to Debra Olson asking her to remove the garbage from her property before August 26^th.  This has not been done.  The Board will ask the Health Officer to proceed with an emergency health order and allow for an opportunity to hold a hearing on  September 19^th.

10)       EXPENSES, PERMITS & PAYROLL:  Selectboard members read and signed reports for General Expenses and Payroll.  The Selectboard approve a liquor license for Derek’s Quik Stop Inc. The Selectboard approved the minutes of the August 15, 2006 Selectboard meeting with minor changes.

Respectfully submitted,

Bobbi Brimblecombe, Town Clerk

The foregoing is a true copy of the Minutes of the September 5, 2006 Selectboard Meeting.

A True Record.  Attest, ______________________________________, Town Clerk

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MINUTES - MARSHFIELD SELECTBOARD MEETING

DATE:                         September 19, 2006

CONVENED:              7:10 p.m.

ADJOURNED             Approximately 10:00 p.m.

PRESENT:                   Selectboard: Laura Johnson, Christopher Martin, John Warshow

                                    Town Clerk: Bobbi Brimblecombe

                                    Visitors: Mary Ann Klimas (Health Officer), Dan Tetreault (Road Foreman), Paul Bowles, Michael Sioufi, Casper Lyford

1)         HEALTH ORDER - SIOUFI:  The Town Health Officer has requested a health order against Michael and Debra Sioufi.  A notice of intent to issue a health order has been sent.  Michael’s former attorney has been replaced and whatever Mr. Bauer said about a key being made available was not discussed with Mr. Sioufi.

            Attorney Bowles stated that many repairs have been made and the statute anticipates that parties could work this out prior to obtaining a health order.  It is their opinion that the damage was caused by the tenant.

            The following repairs have been made or are underway:

            The roof has been repaired.

            A new heating system has been ordered.

There is a crumbling spot on the floor and it will be repaired before anyone can move in.  The floor is crumbling in the entryway, and there is a spot of plywood in the kitchen.

                        Question about flooring:  Mary Ann read from the rental housing code regarding floor covering.  Michael said he has no problem replacing the floor coverings. 

                        Wiring – Michael will have his electrician add outlets.  Mary Ann suggested referring to the rental housing code to see specifications.

                        Repair interior walls – this has been done.

                        Repair exterior walls – Michael stated that the mobile home can stand alone but the envelope where the holes are is just for aesthetics.  Discussion about whether the envelope needs to be weather tight.  Laura suggested that the mobile home is not weather tight, and so the envelope is there not for aesthetic purposes but because it is necessary to protect the mobile home.  Michael doesn’t see any problems with replacing the insulation.  Laura said it doesn’t seem that insulation would make it water tight.

                        Mary Ann would like to see the daylight closed off because she is not confident that the mobile home is weather tight.  She would be satisfied with insulation.

                        Ventilation in bathroom needs to be addressed.  There is a window in the bathroom and one in the envelope.  Michael stated that the way to fix it is to have a window in both that will open.  Mary Ann stated that an exhaust fan could also be addressed.  Each room needs a window or door that will open to the outside and a screen.

                        Repair or replace hot water heater and associated plumbing.  Michael turned the water heater on and will wait to see if it works.   If not, he will replace it.

                        Doors have been ordered.

                        Remove garbage – that is done.  Michael stated that the dumpster was emptied a week before the inspection and he feels that the tenant was storing garbage.

                        Michaud septic service pumped the tank and inspected the tank.

                        Michael stated that he has had the water tested by Champlain College or Johnson State College.  Mary Ann suggested that if there is a copy of the water test report, it should be submitted.

                        Michael wants to rent the dwelling when the safety issues are repaired, and let the tenant make the rest of the repairs at their leisure.

                        John stated that we need to research whether or not we have authority to give leeway to allow the property to be rented in light of the violations.  You are asking us to do something that we are not sure we can do.  What happens if for some reason your tenant doesn’t make the repairs?

                        Attorney Bowles read that 18 VSA 124 encourages voluntary compliance.

                        Laura stated that health issues are safety issues.  We owe it to our residents to be sure that they have safe, healthy places to live.

            The Board and Health Officer asked him to submit a written proposal for a timeline to get everything done.  The Board agreed that they would not go forward with the health order if Mr. Sioufi agrees on the record that no one will be moving in until all items except floor covering and ventilation have been addressed, provided that the doors are repaired or replaced for ventilation, and the carpets are cleaned or removed.  Mary Ann reminded everyone that the term rental applies even if the property is let in exchange of labor in lieu of money.

            Mr. Sioufi is voluntarily consenting not to allow the dwelling to be occupied until repairs that we have discussed are made; he will submit a written request for deferral of any items on the list of 11 with a time frame to remedy those so that the dwelling could be rented or occupied before those items are complete.  We will consider the request as soon as possible.  When the repairs are made, the town will be notified so that we can perform an inspection prior to the building being occupied.   Michael agreed to this.

2)                  HEALTH ORDER – ELLIS:  Mary Ann has researched the property.  It was a dairy barn built by the Orton family.  There is no water or sewer.  There is a person living there with no sanitary facilities, and garbage and cars are accumulating.  Since the property is on the bank of the river and since the river could be contaminated, this constitutes a health risk.  This has been going on for some time.

The Town first tried to remedy the situation in environmental court but the owner is deceased and so the case was dismissed because there was no one to enforce against.  Bob Light has talked to the transient who is living there.  The man doesn’t think he has done anything illegal.  John has received several complaints about the occupant disposing of human waste in the river.

 HEALTH ISSUE – OLSON:  The dumpster has been removed.

3)         ROADS:  Russell Goslant attended to speak to the Selectboard about the Lanesboro Road.  He believes the road continues further than what is shown on the town map.  In light of the ancient road legislation, the town will look into the history of the road.

4)         CLARENCE GEORGE ROAD:  Dan thinks the blasting may have started today.  We did receive a certificate of insurance.

5)         WORKERS’ COMP:   Road Crew member Tim Davis was hurt while removing a tree on the Clarence George Road. 

6)         LISTERS:  The Selectboard has learned that two of the listers are considering not running again in March.  An ad will be placed in the Twinfield Field Notes to let people know that if they are interested, they should come in to talk to the Selectboard about the duties.

7)         COVERED BRIDGE:  The grant guidelines require that all sub-contractors carry a two-million dollar insurance policy.  The Town will check with the state to see how we can work with these guidelines.

8)                  ROADS:  Deanna Boucher has requested stop signs at the four-way intersection at the top of Upper and Lower Depot Roads.   The town will look into it.  She also asked about a lower speed limit on Bean Road.  The Board does not feel that the Regional Planning Commission would conduct a speed study on a class 4 road.

9)         FOOD SHELF:  The Food Shelf has notified the Selectboard that they are low on funds, and they would like the town to consider lowering their rent next year.

10)       LAND GIFT:  Mrs. Christiansen has offered to donate land between Upper and Depot Roads to the town.  The Board discussed whether to let the property go to tax sale or to pay the legal fees to open an estate for each of the owners.  The Board will research the cost of a tax sale.

11)       EXPENSES, PERMITS & PAYROLL:  Selectboard members read and signed reports for General Expenses and Payroll.  They approved a curb cut application for Terry Wilson.  They signed a deed conveying a cemetery lot to Madeline Kreuzer.  The Selectboard approved the minutes of the September 5, 2006 Selectboard meeting.

Respectfully submitted,

Bobbi Brimblecombe, Town Clerk

The foregoing is a true copy of the Minutes of the September 19, 2006 Selectboard Meeting.

A True Record.  Attest, ______________________________________, Town Clerk

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MINUTES - MARSHFIELD SELECTBOARD SPECIAL MEETING

DATE:                         September 28, 2006

CONVENED:              4:30 p.m.

ADJOURNED             4:45 p.m.

PRESENT:                   Selectboard: Laura Johnson, John Warshow

                                    Town Clerk: Bobbi Brimblecombe

1)         PLANNING GRANT:  The Selectboard passed and signed a resolution to apply for a municipal planning grant.

Respectfully submitted,

Bobbi Brimblecombe, Town Clerk

The foregoing is a true copy of the Minutes of the September 28, 2006 Selectboard Special Meeting.

A True Record.  Attest, ______________________________________, Town Clerk

*****************************************************************************************************

MINUTES - MARSHFIELD SELECTBOARD MEETING

DATE:                         October 3, 2006

CONVENED:              7:00 p.m.

ADJOURNED             10:10 p.m.

PRESENT:                   Selectboard: Laura Johnson, Christopher Martin, John Warshow

                                    Town Clerk: Bobbi Brimblecombe

                                    Visitors: Carol Bandy, Sally Brickey, Richard Phillilps

                                    OSC Directors Kate Smith, Alan Taplow, and Janet Nielsen

                                    Library Trustees Jennifer Barlow, Pat Mayhew

                                    Librarian Susannah Blachly, Library Assistant Sylvia Smith

1)         DOGS:  Carol Bandy attended the meeting to speak about the recent complaint that was made by Sharon Fitzpatrick.  She presented a letter from another neighbor, Lynn Kennison, supporting her position that her dog is not threatening.  She was walking in front of the Bandy residence last Monday September 25^th.  She stopped every two feet in front of their house.  After Ms. Fitzpatrick walked by, Carol’s dog got loose and run up the road after Ms. Fitzpatrick.  Carol called her dog and the dog came back.  After that, when Ms. Fitzpatrick was walking by the Brickey residence, the Brickey dog was outside but in the Brickey’s yard, and she sprayed it with pepper spray while it was still on the Brickey property.  When the dog was taken inside, one of the Brickey children got the pepper spray in his eyes while cleaning his dog.  Laura suggested that she is using the public road as a training ground.  If her training business is a home occupation, it needs to be conducted on her own property.   Using the public road to train dogs in a manner that antagonizes other dogs is unacceptable.  Sally asked what would have happened if one of the children was sprayed directly.  John noted that one of his dogs was sprayed by her this summer when they were on the property of their caretakers, the Dutils.  When Ms. Fitzpatrick called John’s house, she said something to the effect “do I need to have a firearm to walk around the circle.”  She called the Bandys and said “I hope I don’t have to use this” and she held a tazer to the phone.  The Bandys have filed a police complaint.  The Selectboard dictated a letter to Ms. Fitzpatrick’s lawyer, detailing the situation and asking that she no longer antagonize other dogs when she is training.

2)         OLD SCHOOLHOUSE COMMON/LIBRARY:  The OSC Board has been notified that the space adjacent to the library is going to be vacant at the end of this year.  The Library would like to expand into this room, using the space for programs and reading space.  Programs have been very well attended, serving 2,700 patrons last year.  The expansion would involve capital costs of $3,100, to be raised through fundraising, and approximately an additional $4,000 per year for rent.  The Library trustees are asking whether the Selectboard thinks the voters would support the additional taxes needed to pay the additional rent.  Laura stated that the Board would like to see the library have the space but we have to look at the budget of the Old Schoolhouse Common.  She noted that the Food Shelf is asking for a reduced rate for their rent.  John agreed, noting that maintenance on the building has been deferred for several years.  Those assembled discussed fundraising efforts that are underway.  The Selectboard is impressed with the additional programming and participation at the library, but they are concerned with the burden on the taxpayers, noting that we had to cut back on winter sand this year because of budget concerns.  The Board suggested that the library increase their fundraising so that those who are able to pay more can support the library without burdening those who can’t pay any more.  Laura also thinks that the library is an essential function of the town, and we have a responsibility to provide a library.  Chris disagreed - he stated that the roads are essential; the library is good to have but not essential.

3)         RESIGNATION:  Chris Whalen has resigned from the Board of Directors of the Old Schoolhouse Common.

4)         COVERED BRIDGE:  Rich Phillips spoke to the Board to update them on the status of the project.  He reviewed potential trail and pavilion locations.

5)         PERSONNEL:  Road Crew member Tim Davis is still out with a shoulder injury.  He will most likely be out for a couple of months or more.

6)         DOGS:  The Board received a complaint from Bob Popp that he was surrounded by dogs belonging to Lloyd Franks.  Bob has spoken with Mr. Franks who stated that the dogs escaped from their pen.  He assured Bob that he will fix the pen and the dogs won’t be out again.  Bobbi will send a copy of the letter to the dog officer.

7)         EXPENSES, PERMITS & PAYROLL:  Selectboard members read and signed reports for General Expenses and Payroll.  The Selectboard approved the minutes of the September 19, 2006 Selectboard meeting.

Respectfully submitted,

Bobbi Brimblecombe, Town Clerk

The foregoing is a true copy of the Minutes of the October 3, 2006 Selectboard Meeting.

A True Record.  Attest, ______________________________________, Town Clerk

*****************************************************************************************************

MINUTES - MARSHFIELD SELECTBOARD MEETING

DATE:                         October 17, 2006

CONVENED:              7:55 p.m. (after abatement hearing)

ADJOURNED             9:55 p.m.

PRESENT:                   Selectboard: Laura Johnson, Christopher Martin, John Warshow

                                    Town Clerk: Bobbi Brimblecombe

                                    Visitors: Dan Tetreault, Road Foreman, Rich Phillips, Kass Phillips

1)         HEALTH OFFICER:  The Board approved a letter that  Mary Ann Klimas, Health Officer wrote to Paul Bowles, attorney for Michael and Debra Sioufi, regarding needed repairs to the Sioufi rental property before it is again occupied.

2)         ROADS:  The Board received a complaint from the Harveys that Bunker Hill Circle has been raised so much that cars bottom out entering their driveway.  They wondered if the Town could bring them a load of dirt.  The Selectboard agreed that when the Town maintains the road it sometimes raises the road, but homeowners are responsible for maintaining their driveways.  The Town sometimes has ditching material but it is not suitable for driveways.

3)         PERSONNEL:  Tim Davis has learned that he needs surgery and will be out for at least three more months.  Dan has been looking for a replacement driver but he has been unable to find anyone.  The Board discussed finding someone to work some of the days and another person to work the other days.  Dan will try to find people who are willing to work a split week.  Bobbi will run an ad in the newspapers.

4)         ROADS:  Larry Babic called to ask Dan to finish cleaning up.  Dan told him we don’t have time to work on it now but he will get to it as soon as he can.

5)         CHANGE OF SCHEDULE:  Because of the election and Thanksgiving, November’s meetings will be held November 14^th and 28^th.

6)         COMPLAINTS:  The Selectboard received complaints from Sharon Fitzpatrick about the scheduling of their last meeting and about the dog officer.  The Board will take the complaints under advisement.

7)         ANCIENT ROADS:  The Town is applying for a grant to help find ancient roads.

8)                  COVERED BRIDGE:  Rich Phillips has negotiated an agreement with Landscape Architect Jean Vissering.  DeWolfe Engineering is donating much of the engineering work on the project.  John moved that the Board authorize Chris to sign the agreement for services between the Town of Marshfield and Jean Vissering dated October17.  Laura seconded – all in favor. 

Several of the Town boards and commissions will meet to discuss the project on November 9^th, and a public meeting will be held on November 15^th.

Rich is submitting another grant application; this grant will be used to have the Vermont Youth Conservation Corps build the trails.

Rich is continuing to work on the logistics of getting equipment onto the site, and working on state permits.

9)       DOGS:  John got a complaint from Donna Bryer that the Brickeys’ dog was barking on Thursday.  She also asked what is being done about the disposal of solid waste on the Brickey property.  John told her the board would look into it.

10)       FIELD NOTES:  John asked about whether there is an editor.  Chris reported that the oversight committee has not met in a while. 

11)       EXPENSES, PERMITS & PAYROLL:  Selectboard members read and signed reports for General Expenses and Payroll.  The Selectboard approved the minutes of the October 3^rd  and September 28^th  Selectboard meetings.

Respectfully submitted,

Bobbi Brimblecombe, Town Clerk

The foregoing is a true copy of the Minutes of the October 17, 2006 Selectboard Meeting.

A True Record.  Attest, ______________________________________, Town Clerk

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MINUTES - MARSHFIELD SELECTBOARD MEETING

DATE:                         November 14, 2006

CONVENED:              7:00 p.m.

ADJOURNED             9:15 p.m.

PRESENT:                   Selectboard: Laura Johnson, Christopher Martin, John Warshow

                                    Town Clerk: Bobbi Brimblecombe

                                    Firefighters: Tim Maclay, Tim Morris, Will Schwarz

1)         FIRE DEPT BUDGET:  The Fire Department presented their 2007 budget request.  The budget includes a 14% increase, due mainly to the need for turnout gear for firefighters.  They presented a calculation of their requests for the past several years, noting that since 1996, the average increase has been 2.5% per year, much lower than inflation.  They have applied for a grant that would buy 20 sets of gear, at a cost of about $50,000, with the town paying 5% or $2,500.  If Marshfield does not receive the grant, they will buy 2 sets of gear this year.  The Selectboard was supportive of their request.  They will notify the Selectboard of the grant status and any changes to the budget at the December 5^th meeting.

2)         EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLANNING:  Laura has reviewed the Town’s pre-disaster mitigation plan and rapid response plan and made an outline of what still needs to be done to complete a comprehensive emergency operations plan.  John moved to authorize Laura to work with the Fire Department, Health Officer, Road Foreman and others to complete the plan.  Chris seconded – all in favor.  The Fire Department explained that the state and federal governments are advising us to adopt the National Incident Management System (NIMS) as a framework for incident response.  NIMS is similar to what the Town uses now, but will help to coordinate responses with other agencies.  Laura moved to adopt NIMS.  Chris seconded – all in favor.

3)         DOG COMPLAINT:  Lisalea Latva has filed a complaint regarding Donnie Mucherino’s dog.  He is frequently at her house, digging under her fence and scratching her door.  She brought the dog to the Town Clerk’s office where the Dog Officer picked him up.  Mr. Mucherino was instructed to keep the dog at home.  Ms. Latva complained again, to John Warshow, and he went to investigate.  When he got there, the dog had been picked up by its owners.  He again asked Mr. Mucherino to keep his dog at home, and asked Ms. Latva not to let the dog in if it comes to her house.  The Board will invite them to come to a meeting to try to resolve this issue.

4)         TRASH COMPLAINT:  Dennis and Donna Bryer have complained about a pile of debris on property that belongs to Shane and Sally Brickey.  The Bryers claim that recent fill on the Brickey property is eroding onto their property.  Chris has spoken with Sally Brickey.  She stated the pile of debris is lumber that used to be their shed.  They have no intention of burning the pile.  This is clearly a difference of opinion between neighbors, but the Board will invite them to come to a meeting to try to resolve their differences.

5)         ORDINANCE VIOLATIONS: The Board has resolved complaints about trash burning on School Street and about the Onion River campground.

6)         PERSONNEL:  John moved to hire Clinton Holt as a temporary member of the road crew, at a wage of $14 per hour.  Laura seconded – all in favor.

7)         LISTER RESIGNATION:  The Selectboard regretfully accepted the resignation of lister Jackie DiMatteo, and asked Bobbi to send her a letter of thanks for her service to the Town.  They asked Bobbi to advertise the vacancy.

8)         SIDEWALKS:  The Selectboard will accept bids for sidewalk snow removal on November 28^th.  If we get snow in the meantime, the Board will ask Josh Gouge to take care of it.

            The Selectboard received a request to plow the sidewalks on the Cabot Road.  John reviewed the history of the sidewalks: they are the responsibility of the Village, but when the Town received a grant for construction of new sidewalks a few years ago, they agreed to maintain the new sidewalks as a condition of the grant.  The sidewalk on the Cabot Road does not have a place to pile snow, because of the bank adjoining the sidewalk, and plowing could make the sidewalk more dangerous for pedestrians because it would be harder for drivers to see that there is actually a sidewalk there.

9)         ZONING:  The Selectboard has received a proposed zoning amendment from the Planning Commission, dealing with non-conforming uses.  The Selectboard will hold a public hearing on the amendment on January 16^th.

10)       EXPENSES, PERMITS & PAYROLL:  Selectboard members read and signed reports for General Expenses and Payroll.  The Selectboard approved the minutes of the October 17, 2006 Selectboard meeting.

Respectfully submitted,

Bobbi Brimblecombe, Town Clerk

The foregoing is a true copy of the Minutes of the November 14, 2006 Selectboard Meeting.

A True Record.  Attest, ______________________________________, Town Clerk

*****************************************************************************************************

MINUTES – MARSHFIELD SELECTBOARD MEETING

DATE:                         November 28, 2006

CONVENED:              7:00 p.m.

ADJOURNED:            9:15 p.m.

PRESENT:                   Selectboard:  Christopher Martin, John Warshow, Laura Johnson

                                    Guests:  Vivien Fritz, Bob Popp

1)      LIBRARY BUDGET:  As a private citizen, Vivien Fritz asked the Selectboard to fully fund the Library budget for 2007.  She would like the funding to be sufficient to cover the operating expenses of the library.  She sees the library as a resource accessible to all town residents and one of the important services the town provides for its residents.  Money has been raised for the bandstand, playground and fields.  Grants have been written and some money has been granted to the Library, Fire Department, etc. for specific purposes.  There is no grant money for operating expenses.  The Library Trustees have had many fundraising events to cover these expenses.  The Library is the only town entity to have to raise their own operating expenses.  The library is a Vermont Free Public Library and can’t charge for their services, so fundraising events are the only way operating expenses can be met.

Vivien was clear that she isn’t trying to say that the Library is more important than other departments in the town, but no other department has a “fundraising” line item in the budget to cover operating expenses.

She sees that health care costs and annual salary increases are needed.  She asks the Selectboard to fund all operating expenses and not ask the Trustees to raise additional money for the library expansion and operating expenses.  Vivien noted that the Trustees are not paid for their services, even though they have numerous responsibilities as to personnel, budgets, and policy decisions.

Having a library was a plus as she and her husband were looking for a place to settle.  Libraries, in general, have filled a void in her life when she was a young working woman.  She sees the library as one of the most important resources that Marshfield has to offer its residents and would like the Selectboard to fully fund the library in its 2007 budget proposal.

Chris reminded us that a portion of the town struggles to pay taxes and the Selectboard tries to keep the tax rate low.  He sees that with fund raising, people can choose to support the library or not.  Vivien replied that if part of the library expenses is paid by those who support the fundraisers, then some are paying more for the use of the library than others are and this is not equitable.

The Library Trustees develop a budget that they feel is needed to provide the various materials, services, and programs that will be of benefit to the townspeople.  She feels the Trustees should not have to fundraise for these materials, services and programs.  She sees that the community has an obligation to fund the Library.

John posed a question – If there has to be a significant budget increase (say 15%) because of rising health care costs, salary raises, cost of fuel, sand, gravel, etc., should the Selectboard ask other departments to cut their budgets in order to fully fund the library?

The Selectboard thanked Vivien for coming with her request before the budget process began.  The Selectboard will be looking at all budget requests and decide on a budget to recommend to the town.

2)      GROTON STATE FOREST:  Bob Popp was representing the Conservation Commission, which has written a letter commenting on the Groton Forest Management Plan.  This letter will be sent to the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation.  The letter was discussed with Bob answering the Selectboard’s questions.  John moved that Chris sign the letter for the Selectboard and that Brett Engstrom sign it for the Conservation Commission.  Chris seconded the motion and it was unanimously approved. 

3)      DOG COMPLAINT:  Bob Popp gave a letter to the Selectboard concerning a dog incident on November 26, 2006.  The dogs are owned by Lloyd Franks, who received a call and copy of the letter from Beth Stern.  This is the third complaint by the Stern-Popp family.  John will call the Franks family and have a letter sent to them from the Selectboard that states that the dogs must be restrained at all times or the dogs will be impounded as allowed by the Marshfield town ordinance regarding dogs running at large.

4)      LISALEA LATVA AND DONNIE MUCHERINO, Resolution of a dog complaint.  Donnie Mucherino called in the afternoon to-day and requested that the discussion be held at a later meeting.  Lisalea Latva didn’t come to the meeting. 

5)      DENNIS AND DONNA BRYER, SHANE AND SALLY BRICKEY:  Resolution of a solid waste complaint.  Neither couple came to the meeting.  Both called with reasons why they couldn’t/wouldn’t  come to the meeting.  The Selectboard decided to have Bobbi write a letter to the Brickeys concerning the need to remove  trash behind their house.  The Selectboard  finds that the Brickeys are in violation of the town’s Civil Ordinance #1 Regulating the Burning and Disposal of Solid Wastes, and need to remove the discarded personal items and used building material that has accumulated in the area behind their house.  John tried to get the two families together to resolve their problems.  He will call the Bryers and Chris will call the Brickeys. 

1.      PHILIP LIEBOLD LETTER OF COMPLAINT AGAINST THE TOWN: The Selectboard will have Bobbi  write a letter to Mr. Liebold stating that we have no written complaint by Mr. Liebold as required by the Town’s Civil Ordinance #4 Regulating Domestic Pets concerning any dog registered in Marshfield, causing harm to his livestock between the dates of February 23 and the end of  March, 2005.  As far as the incident on July  20, 2006, there was no evidence that a dog registered in Marshfield, caused the stampede.   Mr. Liebold will be invited to a future Selectboard meeting if he wants to discuss the matter further.

6)      ELLIS SITUATION:  The board was up-dated on this situation.

7)      EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN:  Laura up-dated the Selectboard on the progress of this plan.  She has done a first draft of the parts she was able to do.   A meeting with Tim Morris will be set up to work on those parts he is familiar with.

8)      BIDS FOR SNOW PLOWING OPENED:  There was one bid from Onion River Excavating for $2,150 for the year or $60 per hour.  Chris moved and John seconded the motion that Onion River Excavating be awarded the bid for $2,150.

10) GIFT OF LAND:  John moved and Chris seconded the motion that the town accept the generous gift of land on Upper Depot Road from Jane Sicely Parker made in memory of her parents, Maurice and Grace Sicely.

11) ANCIENT ROADS GRANTS:  Chris reported that 20 of 80 towns received grant money to study the ancient roads of their towns.  If there is another round of grants, Marshfield will apply.

12)    LARRY BABIC REQUEST FOR UP-DATE ON THEIR TURN AROUND:  Dan reported to Chris that the town can’t get any more bank run gravel this year.  In addition, the budget won’t allow for this expense this year.  The turn around has yet to be designed, costs figured and decisions need to be made as to how to share the cost of the improvement.  The Selectboard will look into this in the spring of 2007.

13)    EXPENSES, PERMITS AND PAYROLL:  The Selectboard read and signed reports for General Expenses and Payroll.  The Selectboard approved the minutes of the November 14, 2006 Selectboard meeting with the added corrections.

Respectfully submitted,

Laura Johnson, Selectboard Member and temporary Secretary

The foregoing is a true copy of the minutes of the November 28, 2006 Selectboard meeting.

Attest, __________________________________________________________, Town Clerk

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MINUTES - MARSHFIELD SELECTBOARD MEETING

DATE:                         December 5, 2006

CONVENED:              7:00 p.m.

ADJOURNED             p.m.

PRESENT:                   Selectboard: Laura Johnson, Christopher Martin, John Warshow

                                    Town Clerk: Bobbi Brimblecombe

                                    Visitors:  Richard Phillips

1)         BUDGET:  The Selectboard reviewed the current budget status and projections for the end of the year.

2)         COVERED BRIDGE:  Richard Phillips came to the meeting to discuss the comments received at the two recent public meetings.  Discussion included plans to accommodate buses and campers turning around, the need for guardrails along the edge of Route 2, signs indicating that covered bridge parking is ahead, a sitting wall and signs, trail locations, and bike racks.  The proposed size of the pavilion has been reduced to 16’ x 26’, to accommodate 4 picnic tables and two grills.  The construction of the pavilion will match the bridge as much as possible, but it will be open-sided.  From the two meetings, the preferred location for the pavilion is in the floodway.  The project will seek a variance from the Development Review Board in order to proceed.

3)         HEALTH CARE:  John moved that we remain members of the VLCT Health Trust.  Chris seconded – all in favor.  The rates will increase by about 13% this year.

4)         EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN:  The Selectboard has to designate alternates to serve  as alternates if town officers are not available in an emergency.  The Board designated Rich Phillips, Ron Smith, Laurie Colgan, Michael Caccavo, Jean Matthew, and George Longenecker.  For Town Clerk/Treasurer, Winnie Valenza, Jeanne Ducharme.  For Assisant Town Clerk/Treasurer, Shirley Salls.  For Constable, Michael Colgan.  For Road Foreman, Tim Davis.  For water supply, Joshua Gouge.  For Wastewater, Earth Tech staff.  For Fire Chief, Will Schwarz, Tim Morris.  For Emergency Management Director, Tim Maclay.  For Health Officer, Lauri Snetsinger.  Laura Johnson is working on the emergency response plan with Tim Morris of the Fire Department.

5)         DOGS:  John left a message with Lloyd Franks and a letter was sent. 

6)         VIOLATIONS: Chris has spoken with the Brickeys and he feels that they will comply.

7)         VACANCY:  The Board instructed Bobbi to advertise the lister vacancy, and have resumes due by December 20, 2006.

8)         GROTON FOREST:  Dan Fowler spoke with Chris about the recent comments that were sent to the state regarding the draft management plan.  He feels that the Selectboard should have solicited more input from townspeople, particularly those involved in forestry, before the comments were sent.  The Board will remember his comments next time.

9)         HEALTH ORDER:  The Selectboard signed a draft health order regarding the Ellis property.

10)       EXPENSES, PERMITS & PAYROLL:  Selectboard members read and signed reports for General Expenses and Payroll.  

Respectfully submitted,

Bobbi Brimblecombe, Town Clerk

The foregoing is a true copy of the Minutes of the~~~~~~~~~~~~ Selectboard Meeting.

A True Record.  Attest, ______________________________________, Town Clerk

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MINUTES - MARSHFIELD SELECTBOARD MEETING

DATE:                         December 20, 2006

CONVENED:              7:00 p.m.

ADJOURNED             p.m.

PRESENT:                   Selectboard: Laura Johnson, Christopher Martin, John Warshow

                                    Town Clerk: Bobbi Brimblecombe

                                    Visitors: Dan Tetreault (Road Foreman), Wayne Kowalski (Planning Commission Chair), Alan Taplow and Kate Smith (Old Schoolhouse Common and Recreation Committee), Gary Leach (Library Trustees)

1)         BUDGET DISCUSSIONS:  The Board reviewed the budgets with the following department heads:

            HIGHWAY:  Dan Tetreault presented his budget to the Board.  He suggested buying a tractor with a boom mower, for mowing roadsides.  If we could find another town to share,it would cost less each year than renting one.  He is contacting a few neighboring towns to see if they are interested.  The Board asked him to continue looking into it.  He also discussed the upcoming changes to regulations that will make a new truck much more expensive.  The Board asked him to have one held while the Board considers this.

            PLANNING COMMISSION:  Wayne Kowalski presented the zoning and planning department budget.  The zoning budget is not increasing, but he suggested that the Board consider increasing the permit fees for subdivisions and developments.  He doesn’t see higher fees for large subdivisions as being an impediment to development.  The Planning Commission is planning an amendment to the floodplain regulations to allow residents to continue buying flood insurance, and also a rewrite of the subdivision regulations.  They also have received a planning grant and will be expending money and being reimbursed for that work.

            BUILDINGS & GROUNDS: Water & Sewer rates are going up.  The tenant renting the stage is leaving but another tenant will be renting it until June.  The Library would like to take over the adjacent space.  They are paying the rent until Town Meeting, and if they get voter approval they will expand into the space.  If they do not get voter approval, the space will be available to another tenant.  The budget is balanced without an increase in rent, with the seniors paying more and the food shelf paying half.  The Board would like more volunteers.  The OSC Board would like to hold a discussion about a new roof for the building.  Building Superintendent Ernie Penley thinks we will need to replace the roof in a couple of years.  Alan Taplow suggested having a meeting with the OSC Board, the Selectboard, and some tradespeople who are knowledgeable about construction alternatives.  The OSC Board will contact a couple of contractors to look at the roof and judge the condition and report its condition to the Board.

            RECREATION: The Recreation budget is less this year because nothing is happening.  The Recreation Committee is currently part of the Old Schoolhouse Common Board, and they also need more members.  Chris talked about the possibility of Youth Sports joining with the Recreation Committee.  Bobbi will check with the VLCT about insurance coverage for volunteer coaches.

            LIBRARY: Gary Leach presented the Library budget.  The requested appropriation will increase by 16%.  The bulk of the increase is in rent, because the library would like to expand into the adjacent space.  The other significant increase is in health insurance.  Salaries are up slightly, but the Librarian’s take-home salary will actually be less because of the increase in insurance.  The proposed budget includes $2,000 in fundraising income and $1,000 from investment income; otherwise the appropriation request would be even higher.  Money to renovate the adjacent space will come from grants or fundraising and is not included in the budget. John voiced the concern that the library represented 4% of the town taxes raised a few years ago, and now it will be 10 % of the town taxes raised.  He feels that the library could raise more money through fundraising.  He noted that we have record delinquencies, and it is hard to see such an increase in a year when people are having such a hard time paying their taxes.  Gary Leach feels that the Trustees are not comfortable presenting an operating budget that depends on fundraising.  John noted that the Library is an essential service but not as essential as winter sand or fuel for the trucks.  All of the town expenses are going up much faster than the rate of inflation, and yet the library is asking for a larger percentage of the town budget. Gary and the Board discussed how the budget would be presented at Town Meeting. John stated that the townspeople trust the Selectboard to do their best to keep taxes down.  Laura stated that she could defend this budget to the townspeople.  John moved to amend the proposed library budget to allow for $2,000 in interest income to allow for the $1,000 that was not drawn this year, and to increase the community support to $3,000.  Chris seconded – all in favor.

            HISTORICAL SOCIETY: The Historical Society asked for the same appropriation as last year.

            TOWN OFFICE/ADMINISTRATION: The budget for insurance and office expenses is down $5,000, but the projected surplus is also decreased.  Bobbi proposed an increase in the hours that the Assistant Town Clerk works.  This would include an increase in retirement expense.  Bobbi will consolidate all of the department budgets and the Board will make final revisions at the next Selectboard meeting.

            PAYROLL:  John moved to increase the salary of town employees by 5%.  Laura seconded – all in favor.

2)         ELLIS CASE:  The tenant at the Ellis property has been served with a notice to vacate.

3)         THOMPSON ROAD:  Laura had a conversation with Dwight Duke regarding use of the Thompson Road.  She visited the road and did not observe any damage.

4)         LISTER:  John moved to appoint Karen O’Donnell as a lister to fill the vacancy created when Jackie DiMatteo resigned.

5)         PLANNING GRANT: The Selectboard authorized Bobbi to sign the grant agreement for the municipal planning grant.

6)         EXPENSES, PERMITS & PAYROLL:  Selectboard members read and signed reports for General Expenses and Payroll.  The Selectboard approved the minutes of the November 28^th and December 5^th, 2006 Selectboard meetings.

Respectfully submitted,

Bobbi Brimblecombe, Town Clerk

The foregoing is a true copy of the Minutes of the December 20, 2006 Selectboard Meeting.

A True Record.  Attest, ______________________________________, Town Clerk

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