PLYMOUTH SELECTBOARD  MEETING MINUTES

 MINUTES

SELECTMEN’S MEETING

DECEMBER 20, 2010

Present: Todd Blanchard, Ralph Michael, Andy Crossman, Carol Ackley, Tom Marrone, Larry Lynds,Mike Chamberlain and Barbara Rabtoy

Signed check warrants.

Approved and signed meeting minutes from Dec. 6^th meeting.

Ralph- We should have Generator Maintenance Systems, Inc. do a complete service and replace the trans switch on the generator. The Board agrees to have Larry contact them to do this work.

Reviewed mail and emails.

Discussed Owen Road and numbers assigned. (New road in the Farm and Wilderness area)

Tom and Carol submitted the Lister’s budget and talked about the Grand List could possibly be less due to the appeals to the State Appraiser. Tom is not sure what the State Appraiser’s decisions will be on the higher pried Hawk homes. The Listers asked if the State Appraiser lowers the Hawk home considerably, would the Selectboard be willing to challenge the lower values?

The Select Board will wait to see what the State decides on these appeals then discuss it with the Listers.

Mike Chamberlain from the Windsor County Sheriff’s Dept. talked about the upcoming budget. For the last couple of years the Sheriff’s Dept has not increased their hourly rate of $41. per hour. Unfortunately this year they will have to increase their rate to $43. per hour.

The Selectboard asked if any calls were to come in while the deputy is in Town would they respond to these calls. Mike states they would answer calls and complaints if the Board would like, but the Sheriffs would need to know what kind of calls the Board would like them to respond to. This could possibly impact the amount of revenue the Town will receive. The deputies can respond while in Town but outside of the daily four hour shift, the Sheriff’s Dept. would not be able to respond.

Todd- That is why we have discussed in the past having the Sheriffs patrol 8 hours a day 7 days a week. If we had 8 hours of coverage daily, the Town would be able to have a more local coverage for any kind of emergencies. By having a Sheriff in Town more hours the Town would not only have speed enforcement, but also have patrol for all of the roads.

Mike Chamberlain- If we were to go to 8 hour shifts 7 days a week, I would probably hire another deputy to cover 40 hours a week in the Town and then the remaining 16 hours would be covered by another deputy. I can put together an estimate for the cost of coverage 8 hours daily 7 days a week and submit it to you the first of the year. The only thing I can not give an estimate on is the amount of revenue the Town could receive.

Larry presented his budget for the highway department.

Ralph motions to go into executive session to discuss ambulance contract. Andy Seconds. So voted.

The Selectboard goes into executive session at 7:35 pm

Meeting Adjourn

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 MINUTES

SELECTMEN’S MEETING

DECEMBER 6, 2010

Present:            Todd Blanchard, Ralph Michael, Andy Crossman, Al Poirier and Tom Derlinga

Reviewed mail.

Approved and signed check warrants.

Approved and signed meeting minutes from the November 15, 2010 meeting.

Approved an Excess Weight Permit for Mark Audy (M & M Logging).

Approved First Class Liquor License and Outside Consumption application for Plymouth Notch LLC. f/k/a

Bear Creek Mountain Club.

The Selectboard received information from the US Census stating the estimated population for Plymouth in 2009 is 565.

Ralph informed the Board the Paille Bridge should be completed by December 10^th.

Al Poirier requested having a write-up in the Town Report about the Town Memory Tree. Al also asked for a $250 appropriation for the Memory Tree.  The Board informed Al he needed to write a request for the appropriation to be printed in the Town Report.

Todd- About a year and a half ago we asked Larry to submit all projects and estimates to the Selectboard for approval and we still have not received any yet. Ralph will talk with Larry about getting an itemized break down and total cost of the Paille Bridge.

Tom Derlinga would like to get comments from the Selectboard regarding the proposed Town Plan before presenting it at a public hearing.

Todd- We need to discuss whether or not we are going to increase the Sheriff Depts. Hours daily from four hours to eight hours. Ralph and Andy do not feel there is a need to increase the Sheriff’s hours but would like the Sheriff’s to respond to any calls in Plymouth while on patrol. We also need to discuss purchasing a new generator for the Municipal Building. The generator needed to be repaired again. The main computer was not working properly. If the Town continues having to fix the generator a few times a year, it would be more beneficial to purchase a new one. Ralph mentions looking into prices for a new generator.

The lights outside of the garage doors are not working. Jodi will contact Dead River Co. to service the lights outside the garage.

Ralph motions to adjourn meeting. Todd seconds so voted.

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MINUTES

SELECTMEN’S MEETING

NOVEMBER 15, 2010

Present: Ralph Michael, Todd Blanchard, Andy Crossman, Betsy Tonkin, Russ Tonkin, Bob Lambert, Joe Lecour and Phil Swanson.

Meeting called to order.

Approved and signed meeting minutes from Nov. 1, 2010.

Reviewed mail.

Reviewed and signed check warrants.

Ralph – This morning I met with Larry, Jeff, Patrick Ross, and Eric House for a pre-construction meeting for the Paile Bridge. (Ralph reported on progress and schedule)

Andy – Has the historical building been winterized?

Betsy Tonkin (member of Plymouth Historical Society). We would like to do another printing of the Plymouth Album in the next year or two. Due to limited funds we would like to request a $400.00 donation to cover our insurance costs. We also pay the power bill that runs $300.00 a year; this bill includes the school bus being plugged in during the winter months. The building is closed down through the winter and does not draw power.

Could a $400.00 donation be put into the budget?

The board discusses with Betsy requesting an appropriation, which would need to be submitted yearly. Instead of a $400.00 appropriation; a $700.00 appropriation was suggested. The appropriation would cover the insurance and electrical cost. Betsy will write a report describing the functions of the Historic society and request for an appropriation to be warned for the 2011 Town Meeting.

Russ Tonkin & Bob Lambert (ancient roads committee) – We brought a draft of the final letter to the State. We would like to get this submitted to the State as soon as possible. Johnson Rd. is being dropped, and Crown Point Rd. from Bramley Kite Way to Unknown Soldiers Rd. is still being mediated.

Letter from the ancient roads committee was reviewed and signed by Selectboard.

Joe Lecour (regarding access permit to Ed Floyd’s property which would also provide access to his and partners subdivision) - Joe asked for the status of the access permit which was requested to run through Ed Floyd’s land (which abuts theirs). It was discussed and determined that an application was filed in January, 2010 for 4 accesses to 4 separate lots on Ed’s land. That permit was denied because the locations of each were not designated. Copies of that denial were not readily available during this discussion.

Ralph explained that in order for an access permit to be reviewed by the road foreman for the Selectboard, it would have to be accompanied by a plan of the subdivision which was being presented to the Planning Commission with an application for a conditional use permit for the project. Joe stated that he thought Ed was no longer pursuing a subdivision permit but would let them have an easement to access their land through his. Joe was advised that he and his partners would need to present a plan to the Planning Commission and the Selectboard could then comment appropriately.

Phil Swanson (Town manager, Woodstock)

Ralph entertained a motion that this meeting be adjourned and the following discussion be in executive session as it would be discussing contractual matters between the Towns of Plymouth and Woodstock. A motion was made by Todd and seconded by Andy to adjourn and discuss the matter at hand in executive session. The board so voted unanimously to adjourn and hold the executive session.

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 MINUTES

SELECTMEN’S MEETING

NOVEMBER 1, 2010

Present:            Ralph Michael, Todd Blanchard, Andy Crossman, Anne Brown, Larry Lynds and Kathy Lynds

Reviewed and signed check warrants.

Reviewed and signed Minutes from October 18, 2010.

Anne Browne talked with the Selectboard about changing the name on accounts for the school building. (Including the phone, lights, fuel, Alarm Company) Anne also added the Selectboard might want to hire an electrician to check the controls on the furnace at the school building. Anne will be submitting photos of the school building inventory. Krista Boni at the RWSU will be the person to contact to have the School accounts closed and changed into the Town of Plymouth’s name.

The Selectboard received a letter from the Historical Society asking to have the water and heat shut off in the Historical building. Larry Lynds will contact Allen’s Plumbing and heating to shut down and winterize the Historical building.

Ralph- Tom Salmon’s secretary gave me the names of four firms we could use as an outside Auditor (CPA).

Kathy Lynds asked the Board if the Town would pay for her to attend an Auditor’s Workshop. Ralph motioned to pay for the Workshop. Todd seconds. So voted.

Ralph talked with Frank Heald Ludlow Town Manager and Frank would like to know the number of calls Woodstock Ambulance responded to in the Town of Plymouth from 2008 through 2010.  Ralph also wants to know the yearly fee Woodstock Ambulance charges the Town for their services and the Census count in the Town of Plymouth.

Jodi will find out the charges the Town of Plymouth pays Woodstock Ambulance yearly and will also contact Phil Swanson Town Manager in Woodstock to find out the number of calls Woodstock responded to in Plymouth from 2008 through 2010.

Ralph motions to adjourn. Todd seconds. So voted.

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 MINUTES

SELECTMEN’S MEETING

OCTOBER 18, 2010

Present:            Todd Blanchard, Ralph Michael, Andy Crossman and Susan Poirier

Reviewed and signed meeting minutes from September 13, 2010.

Approved and signed check warrants.

We received the Hydraulic Study from V-Trans for the Paille Bridge.

Todd- Has there been any progress with the Paille Bridge?

Ralph- We received the Hydraulic Study from V-Trans for the bridge. It shows the state wants us to make the river channel larger than it is now. I need to compare the Hydraulic Study with the Flood Study for the Paille Bridge for the 100 year flood flow. The flow in Vtrans report for the 100 year flood should agree closely with the FEMA flood study.  V-Trans is also saying the foundation for the bridge should be 5 to 6 feet below the river bed.  The way V-Trans wants the bridge built; it could cost $500,000, if not more. I am not sure if we will be able to take care of the Paille Bridge this year because we still have not heard from Water Resources.  We could try to put a road in through Gordon Paille’s neighbor’s property if they would give us permission. It would cost a lot less money than putting up a temporary bridge. I will call Nick Wark at Vtrans to discuss the hydraulic report tomorrow. I will also call Water Resources to see what the status of their review for a permit.

The Selectboard has a problem with Woodstock Ambulance servicing the Town of Plymouth. The Town is getting billed for monies Woodstock can not collect from the insurance companies or the patients.

Sue Poirier- Just to start, Woodstock Ambulance has a wonderful service, but it is neither appropriate nor legal for a Town to bill patients for these services. Ludlow Ambulance Serv. is staffed to service all of Plymouth, but for the people that live on the Bridgewater side of Route 100A and Hale Hollow Road the response time will be considerably longer than if Woodstock Ambulance responded. It is possible to call for Mutual Aid if an ambulance was needed on the Bridgewater side of 100A or Hale Hollow Road. I feel the Selectboard should talk with the Town Manager in Woodstock regarding the billing portion of the agreement as well as the portion that states “Woodstock will dispatch for Plymouth”. The Town of Plymouth uses Ludlow to dispatch.

Sue Poirier- My boss is Frank Heald Town Manager in Ludlow. You will need to speak with Frank regarding Ludlow Ambulance servicing the whole Town of Plymouth.

Ralph- I will talk with the Town Manager in Woodstock first to see if we can come up with an Agreement that everyone will be satisfied with. If not I will contact Frank Heald regarding an agreement with the Ludlow Ambulance.

Ralph motions to adjourn. Andy seconds. So voted.

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 MINUTES

SELECTMEN’S MEETING

OCTOBER 4, 2010

Present:            Ralph Michael, Todd Blanchard, Larry Lynds, Russ Tonkin, Tom Brown, Jay Kullman, Pieter Bohen, Andy Shultz and David Martin

Reviewed and signed meeting minutes from September 13, 2010.

Approved and signed check warrants.

Ralph- At our last meeting we discussed hiring Fred Glover, Esq. as the town attorney to deal with Robert Zorn

and to represent the Town for the tax appeal to the Superior Court for Rod & Shawn Jeter. Fred will also draw

up a nuisance ordinance for the Town, so we can discourage property owners from accumulating large amounts

of junk and debris.

The Listers went to Rod & Shawn Jeter’s property to do an inspection and the Listers have determined the

Property value should be lowered to $297,700.  The Selectboard unanimously agrees to offer a settlement to the

Jeter’s for the amount the Listers suggested $297,700.

Ralph- I have also talked with Fred Glover about the Gilmore LLC. appeal. The Environmental Court wants

this matter dealt with through mediation.  The Planning Commission approved Gilmore LLC’s permit. What

should happen now is, Gilmore LLC and the opponent should discuss their issues. Stitzle, Page and Fletcher has

not withdrawn their representation through the court yet, so Fred will take care of that. After discussing what we

            would have Fred do for the town it was agreed that the board would ask Fred to monitor the mediation process

            and keep us informed as to developments in the matter.

Larry informed the Board he needs to replace the sander chain and it will cost $837.92. If we were to by 10

grader blades for $127 each we would be able to get a 5% discount on the sander chain

Todd asked if Larry has ever tried the serrated grader blades, because they would last longer than the standard

straight blades. Larry stated he has not tried them yet. He will look into the cost difference for future purchases.

The Board approves Larry to purchase the grader blades and the sander chain.

Larry- The Paille Road Bridge definitely needs to be replaced after it washed out on one end from all of the

heavy rain.

Ralph made the suggestion that maybe the Town should look into renting a Bailey bridge until next Spring.

Ralph will look into the cost of a Bailey bridge as well as what permits may be needed to replace the existing

bridge.

Larry asked the Board if the dumpster that is located at the school building could be moved to the garage in the

fire department considering the school is no longer open. It would be more practical to have it here at the garage

considering this is where the trash is generated.

The Board approves having the dumpster relocated to the garage in the fire department.

Ralph- The discussion with the Ancient Roads committee involves a matter with which I have provided     surveying services for Farm and Wilderness and the Ninevah Foundation. Therefore, I feel I have to recuse myself from the ensuing discussion, so I will remove myself to the floor and not participate.

Russ Tonkin- The Ancient Roads Committee is a bit confused as to what is going on. At the last Selectboard

meeting Andy and Todd both agreed to give up Johnson Road but wanted to keep Crown Point Road and the

           Unknown Soldiers Road and then stated they wanted to continue with the law suite. The next thing we know the Selectboard

           has relieved Stitzle, Page & Fletcher from any further representation for the Town.

We still have a law suite out there. Do we have legal council? And who?

Todd- Yes we do have legal council and it will be Fred Glover, Esq.

Russ- I think the Selectboard made a huge mistake relieving Stitzle’s office. We really need to discuss this

matter when all three Selectmen are here.

The Selectboard will set a date for a Special Meeting with Farm & Wilderness. Ninevah and the Ancient Roads

Committee. The Clerk’s office will notify all parties when a date and time is set. (Possibly Saturday

October 23, 2010)

(Ralph returns to the board meeting)

Tom Brown asked the Selectboard if it would be possible for the Cemetery Commission to use the money in the

Kennedy Lot account to fix the Notch Cemetery.

            Ralph- It is my opinion we should give a proposal to the Town as to what it will cost to fix the Notch Cemetery 

            at the Town Meeting in March.

Russ asked the Selectboard if they decided whether they wanted him to talk to Gary LaCoss about the junk on

his property.

Ralph- The Selectboard cannot find any evidence indicating there is a health hazard at the Lacoss property.

Russ- Has the Selectboard hired an outside CPA to assist the Auditors.

Ralph- No. We have decided to get some prices and present them at Town Meeting.

Ralph- We need to discuss setting a meeting date for the School Building Committee. I feel Larry Lynds would

make a good candidate to be on this committee. I spoke with Larry and he said he would be willing to be on the

committee.

Ralph makes a motion to appoint Larry Lynds to the School Building Committee. Todd seconds. So voted.

We should have Andy set up a meeting date and time, because he is representing the Selectboard on the

Committee.

Ralph motions to adjourn. Todd seconds. So voted.

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 MINUTES

SELECTMEN’S MEETING

SEPTEMBER 13, 2010

Present:            Ralph Michael, Todd Blanchard and Andy Crossman

Approved and signed minutes from the August 23, meeting.

Reviewed and signed check warrants.

Andy- Did Larry replace the culvert on Pine Hill Road?

Ralph- I know Larry has the new culvert but I am not sure if  it has been replaced yet.

John Norton from the Windsor County Sheriff’s Dept. has asked for permission to use the Town of Plymouth’s radio frequency. Jodi will draft a letter to the Sheriff’s Dept. giving permission to use the Town’s radio frequency.

Jodi submitted several documents that have been sent to the town by Robert Zorn. Mr. Zorn feels he owns the property currently owned by Thomas Ryan and James Brown because he personally foreclosed on the properties.  Ralph makes a motion to submit these documents to Fred Glover, Esq. to review and take any action needed. Todd seconds the motion. Discussion on the matter was that Jodi or Rachel will meet with Fred with the papers and discuss the matter. Ralph will send a letter to Fred so he will expect the visit. So voted.

Rod & Shawn Jeter are appealing their 2009 Board of Civil Authority Tax Appeal Decision to the Superior Court. The Selectboard will submit the appeal information to Fred Glover, Esq. to handle the case.

Ralph- Fred Glover called and informed me that he talked with Russ Tonkin, the town’s Health Officer about the LaCoss property. Fred stated if the Selectboard wanted they could have Russ go to the LaCoss property and inspect the situation to see if there are any health code violations. Ralph showed the board some photo’s he took of the property and it was the opinion of all members that this matter does not appear to rise to a public health concern. It is a nuisance. The Board decides not to have Russ inspect the property.

Ralph- If we are going to adopt an Ordinance, we really should have Fred Glover, Esq. draft it, so everything will be uniform and legal. The board agreed we should continue with having Fred draft an ordinance which this board can adopt.

Andy- The Board needs to discuss whether or not we are going to hire an out side Auditor this year.

The Selectboard decides to check into prices for an outside Auditor and bring the discussion to the annual Town Meeting in March 2011.

Ralph- The Board needs to discuss the pending case between the Ancient Roads Committee and Farm & Wilderness. Todd makes a motion to go into executive session to discuss the pending case between the Ancient Roads Committee and Farm & Wilderness. Andy seconds. So voted.

The meeting is adjourned and goes into executive session.

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 MINUTES

SELECTMEN’S MEETING

AUGUST 23, 2010

Present:            Ralph Michael, Todd Blanchard, Andy Crossman, Rachel Lynds, Russ Tonkin, Bob Lambert, Joe Rebideau, Tom Brown and Jim Meyer.

Reviewed mail, approved and signed check warrants.

Signed contract for Cartographic Associates.

Received a letter from Jim Grace regarding the logging trucks on Pine Hill Road.

Ancient Roads Committee attended the meeting to discuss a letter from Steven Stitzel in response to the Farm & Wilderness issues. Basically F & W wants the Town of Plymouth to give up Crown Point Rd., Johnson Rd. and a section of Unknown Soldiers Rd. in exchange for an agreement to allow snowmobiling and hiking on these roads. This is the Selectboard’s decision to make.

Ralph- Johnson Rd. is more like a trail not a road. Unknown Soldiers Rd. is already classified as a Class 4 Road. The Town of Plymouth adopted that decades ago. I have done some research for Farm & Wilderness and Ninevah Foundation so I need to recuse myself from any decisions on this matter. The Town of Plymouth adopted the Unknown Soldiers Road back in the 1940’s or 1950’s

Ancient Roads Committee-

The Ancient Roads Committee has an issue with giving up Crown Point Road and Unknown Soldiers Rd. In our opinion we should drop Johnson Rd and keep Unknown Soldiers Rd. and Crown Point Rd.

Todd makes a motion to give up Johnson Rd. and keep Crown Point Rd. and Unknown Soldiers Rd. Andy Seconds. So voted.

Russ- Johnathan Croft from V Trans will accept all of the roads the Committee submits, providing the Selectboard will stand behind the Ancient Roads Committee if any legal issues arise in the future.

Bob-  The Reading ATV Club would like to have permission from the Selectboard to use part of Hale Hollow Rd. to the Bridgewater line. The time frame the ATV’s would use the road is June 1^st thru December 15^th.

Andy makes a motion to allow ATV’s to use Hale Hollow Rd from Merrill Hill Rd to the Bridgewater line. Ralph seconds. So voted.

Ralph makes a motion to go into executive session at 7:00 p.m. to complete their interviews for the Town Clerk’s position. Todd seconds. So voted

Meeting is back in session at 8:00 p.m.

Ralph makes a motion to appoint Larry Lynds as 911 Coordinator. Todd Seconds. So voted

Andy- The only paperwork to be submitted to the Town Clerks Office is 911 sign orders.

Ralph makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. Todd seconds. So voted.

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 MINUTES

SELECTMEN’S MEETING

AUGUST 9, 2010

Present:            Ralph Michael, Todd Blanchard, Andy Crossman, Larry Lynds and Rachel Lynds

Called meeting to order at 6:00 PM.

Approved and signed check warrants and minutes from July 26, 2010.

Ralph met with attorney Fred Glover to discuss drafting an ordinance regarding excessive junk on properties in Town.

The Selectboard unanimously agrees the Town needs to have an ordinance to prevent property owners from collecting junk and debris.

Ralph also talked with Carl Mattison and with Sue Piorier with Ludlow Ambulance about eliminating Woodstock Ambulance services and using only Ludlow Ambulance services. Sue is proceeding with coordination of the change over.

Larry submitted a service contract for the loader from Komatsu so the Selectmen could review it.

Ralph makes a motion to hire attorney Fred Glover to draft an Ordinance, a Charter and for anything as needed. Andy seconds. So voted.

Dennis Devereux talked with Rachel about hiring an outside appraiser and having Listers by name only. This process could possibly go through General Law. Dennis will check into this.

Cargill sent a quote to the Town for winter salt at $62.43 per ton. This is the same cost Cargill charged last year. Ralph makes a motion to accept the contract with Cargill. Andy seconds. So voted.

Larry informs the Selectboard that Mosher Excavating submitted a bid in the amount of $64,000 to excavate the back of the Notch Cemetery.

Larry also has talked with Mike Lynds about using his excavator to do the work at the cemetery. Mike agreed to offer his excavator for 2-3 days for the amount of $500 as long as either himself, Larry or Art run it. This amount is to cover wear and tear. Mac Putnam has offered to donate his time to run a dozer if the Town was to rent one to assist in cleaning up the cemetery. Larry also adds it would be helpful if the Selectboard was willing to donate the monies from the Kennedy lot which is $6,000. Anyone that would be working on this project would need to sign a Liability Release form.

A break down of cost if the Town was to use Mike’s excavator is:

$8,000 - Dozer

$3,000 - Fuel

$   500 – Mike’s Excavator (2-3 Days)

$1,000 - $1,200 – Move Dozer

Ralph asked if it would be possible to wait until next spring to do this work. Andy explained the Town could wait but it would be better to do it this year.

Ralph makes a motion to close this meeting and go into executive session to perform interviews for the Town Clerks position. Todd seconds. So voted.

Meeting closes and goes into executive session at 7:00 PM.

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 MINUTES

SELECTMEN’S MEETING

JULY 26, 2010

Present:            Todd Blanchard, Ralph Michael, Andy Crossman, Rita Seto, Rachel Lynds, Tom Marrone, Carol Ackley, Michelle Pingree & Margo Marrone

Called meeting to order at 6:00 PM.

Ralph talked with Ludlow Ambulance about servicing the entire town of Plymouth. Ludlow Ambulance stated 

they would be able to service all of Plymouth. Todd makes a motion to no longer use Woodstock Ambulance; instead, Ludlow will service the entire town of Plymouth. Ralph seconds. So voted.

Ralph- I talked with attorney Fred Glover regarding the mess on the LaCoss property. Fred is going to look into the statues regarding junk yards.

Ralph- We have a bill from Woodstock Ambulance totaling approximately $10,000. Some of the charges are for recent ambulance calls. I make a motion we wait a while before paying on this bill to see if the patient’s insurance companies are going to pay for any of the services. The Board unanimously agrees to hold off on paying Woodstock Ambulance.

Approved and signed minutes from the July 9, 2010 meeting.

Ralph- I sent the contract and summary of services to Two Rivers for the Planning Grant.

Rita Seto from Two Rivers attended the meeting to give an update on the Scenic Route Byway Project. A list of project sites was submitted for the Selectboard to review and make any changes that are needed. The Selectboard will review the project list, make any changes needed and return it to Two Rivers. Rita also asked the Selectboard to review the Emergency contact list to make sure it was up to date.

Ralph- The Nicholas Alimanestianu case is costing the Town a lot of money and nothing is settled yet. I drafted a letter to Will Flender, Esq. at Stitzel, Page & Fletcher advising them we were going to retain legal services from a law firm closer to Plymouth and would not be requiring their legal council any longer.

The Selectboard had invited the Listers to attend the meeting to discuss holding a days pay and mileage due to conflicting hours and mileage submitted for a class they attended in Ludlow. The Listers stated the class was for Land Schedules.

Ralph- What is the reason for different hours submitted on time sheets and one submitted 34 miles for travel   to go to a class in Ludlow. It is not 34 miles to go to Ludlow and back.

Carol- Rachel was aware of this class because she had the information a couple of weeks before hand.

Michelle- I had more time than the other two Listers because I came into the office in the morning before going to the class. Then after class we had to do an inspection.

Carol- Why are things being questioned now. We have never been questioned about time paid for classes or mileage over the last 10 years or so. We have always been paid and reimbursed for mileage to attend classes and seminars. The State of Vermont does give the town money for education.

Ralph- We just need to make sure we try to keep things running more efficiently and keep costs down as that is in the best interests of the residents and tax payers of Plymouth.

Tom- I don’t think you will see a big increase in the Lister’s budget.

Ralph- We do not have a problem with paying for class time or mileage, we were just wondering why there was such a discrepancy. The point we want to make is not to waste money. I think your office could cut some of its expenses.

Carol- We have never gone over our budget and this year we are going to come in way under the budgeted amount.

The Selectboard agrees to pay the Listers for the time they attended the class in Ludlow and reimburse for mileage.

The Listers give the Selectboard an update regarding the market situation in Plymouth. Several minutes of discussion took place regarding an across the board 20% reduction in the appraised value of condo’s at Hawk.

Some of this conversation had to do with why reduce those values and not other properties in town, particularly other condominium units such as Birch Landing.

The Selectboard asked the Listers for the 2010 Grand List total so they can set the Municipal Tax Rate. The Listers were unable to present the grand list but did provide a total value so the municipal tax rate could be set. This way the tax bills could be sent out providing the 30 day minimum notice required for a September 1 due date.

Margo Marrone – I would like to ask for the Board’s permission to use the Selectmen’s office to assist people with applications for assistance. This process would be done during the Town Clerk’s Office hours. I would rather not have everyone in my house that needs help with the application process.

The Selectboard unanimously agrees to allow Margo Marrone to use the Selectman’s Office during the Town Clerk’s Office house to assist with the application process for people who need assistance.

Andy will be representing the Selectboard on the School Building Committee.

Ralph makes a motion to adjourn Todd seconds. So voted

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MINUTES

SELECTMEN’S MEETING

JULY 12, 2010

Present:            Todd Blanchard, Andy Crossman, Ralph Michael, Will Flender, Esq., Tiki Mcmahan, Bob Lambert,

                        Russ Tonkin, Tom Brown & John Dupont.

Called meeting to order at 6:00 PM.

Ralph- Larry informed me that the bridge on Pinney Hollow will be done by the end of the month. I have some items that need to be added to the draft agenda for this meeting which are essentially housekeeping matters.

            a) We should all think about and try to make suggestions as to who will represent the town population on the school house committee. We should have some names of those who will be willing to serve in this capacity prior to our 7/26 meeting.

            b) We need to discuss pay raises

We may get complaints about dust on Hale Hollow Road during grading project according to Larry.

Todd- That will not be anything new.    

Todd- I make a motion that we go into executive session to discuss pending issues with Nicholas Alimanestianu’s request for a Variance and the draft stipulation agreement. Andy seconds the motion.

Todd Blanchard, Andy Crossman, Ralph Michael and Will Flender, Esq. go into executive session at 6:05 PM.

Executive session closes and selectmen return to open meeting at 7:10 PM.

Ralph- We now reopen the open meeting of the board. We welcome the Ancient roads committee to make their presentation.

Russ - We would like to present seven roads to the State as Town roads. Three of the seven roads have surveys but the remaining four do not. The ancient Roads Committee has extensive information showing these roads are actually Town roads. We need to submit a letter to V Trans with these seven roads to be added to the map. We would like the Selectboard to approve these roads. We would like to hand deliver the approval letter from the Selectmen to the State.

Bob- The Selectboard has already approved 16 of the 18 roads that have been submitted to the State but the State sent the information back because the Ancient Roads Committee submitted a letter stating the 16 roads are proposed roads. This is the only reason why this was returned to us.

Ralph- I see the Ancient Roads Committee has these roads labeled as LT. This stands for Legal Trails. The classification of a road is very important because the existing and possible proposed future town plan and zoning may govern land use for those who own land along these travel corridors.

Russ- We used the label LT for our purpose only. The state knows these are Class 4 roads. Jonathan Croft from the state says it does not matter what maps these roads are on or are not on. A few years back all of the Towns were asked not to include Class 4 roads on the V Trans map.  Now V Trans wants these roads to be reclassified and if they are being used and the Selectboard supports the Ancient Roads Committee, these roads will be added to the V Trans map again.

Bob- The snowmobile business we have in town counts on being able to use these roads.

Russ & Bob- We would like to be able to take care of this tonight.

Todd makes a motion that the Selectboard sign the letter for the Ancient Roads Committee to submit to

V Trans. Andy Seconds. So voted.

Tom Brown- The Cemetery Commission would like the Selectboard to give permission to take some money out of the Kennedy Lot fund.

Todd- Do you have a dollar amount of what you need?

Tom- Not yet I will have to get back to you.

Andy- We should schedule this matter for a future meeting.

John- I would like to know if I will still be mowing the lawns for the School & Historical building.

Todd- Do you have a contract or is it an hourly rate?

John- I charge an hourly rate.

Ralph- I make a motion to have John Dupont do all of the mowing and weed eating for both the school/ historic building as well as the town office. Andy seconds. So voted.

Ralph- The next item on the agenda is the Alimanestianu stipulation of agreement. I will not participate in this discussion or vote on the matter.

Todd & Andy- The Stipulation for Nicholas Alimanestianu will state the dwelling may only be used as a seasonal residence not a fulltime residence pending State approval.We will sign the stipulation to be submitted to the Environmental Court after changes have been made. Will Flender will talk with Mr. Alimanestianu’s attorney Lawrence Slason regarding these changes.

Ralph- The next item to discuss is the junk yard on Dublin Road and Tiki McMahon is here to comment on this matter.

Tiki- I am here on behalf of Gwendolyn Gioffre. Gwendolyn owns a house at 917 Dublin Rd. She has been trying to sell her house for quite sometime and is unable to sell due to the Lacoss property. There is an enormous mess with rats, chickens and oil tanks. I don’t understand why people that live on Dublin Rd. get a -20% on their assessment because of this junk yard. You would think if the Town can give this discount to those people, they should just use the money they are deducting from people’s assessments and get the Lacoss property cleaned up. Once the property was cleaned up the Town would not need to give this 20% reduction.

Ralph- I really don’t think this individual has the finances to clean it up.

Tiki- Maybe Lacoss is receiving money for all of this junk.

Ralph- We can not just accuse someone of something like that. I am not sure if the Town even has the authority to tell Gary LaCoss he has to clean up his property.

Tiki- Lacoss is living in a travel trailer. What if he does not have a septic?

Ralph- Maybe that is something the Health Officer would need to investigate. We could look into what needs to be done to get an Ordinance in place in Plymouth. We should seek legal council to see what we need to do to get an ordinance that is bullet proof, and then we might have to present it to the Town to be voted on. If it meets with the approval of you other members of the board I will call an attorney to discuss what process is involved in adopting and enforcing such an ordinance. I suggest making an appointment with Fred Glover to discuss this matter.

Andy and Todd agree with using Fred Glover if he is willing.

Andy- There has been a few inquiries regarding the storm drains in front of the Wilder House.

Ralph- It seems to me it needs to be fixed. It could be dangerous for bicyclist. All three Selectmen agree the storm drains need to be fixed.

Ralph- I will talk with Fred Glover regarding the agreement with Woodstock Ambulance and I will also talk with him informally about a Town Ordinance. I will also check with the company Sunset regarding flag poles and flags.

Ralph makes a motion to allow pay increases of 4 % across the board effective July 1, 2010. Todd seconds. So voted.

Todd makes a motion to adjourn. Andy seconds. So voted.

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 MINUTES

SELECTMEN’S MEETING

JUNE 21, 2010

Present:            Ralph Michael, Andy Crossman, Larry Slason, Esq., Nicholas Alimanestianu and Anne Brown

Called meeting to order at 6:00 pm.

Reviewed mail

Signed HIPA form from Woodstock Ambulance.

Approved and signed check warrants.

Margaret Tucker and Betsy Tonkin resigned as Justice of the Peace.

Larry Slason is representing Nicholas Alimanestianu regarding an appeal for a conditional use permit and a Variance. Mr. Slason suggests the Selectboard go into executive session because of litigation.

Ralph- I make a motion to go into executive session to discuss a possible settlement regarding Mr. Alimanestianu. Andy seconds.

Entered executive session at 6:30 pm and returned to open meeting at 7:00 pm.

Ralph- I need to recuse myself from any decision making regarding Nicholas Alimanestianu’s case. I have prepared a site plan for Mr. Alimanestianu and feel this could be conceived as a conflict of interest.

Todd Blanchard was not available to be at this meeting in person but during the executive session we were able to have a conference call with Todd Blanchard to discuss all information regarding Mr. Alimanestianu.

Andy- I make a motion to approve a settlement regarding both the Conditional Use and the Variance Mr. Alimanestianu has applied for. Our settlement is to allow Mr. Alimanestianu to build a 22 X 32 single family two story structure that will be used only as a vacation home. A final stipulation will be that construction of the dwelling shall not be commenced until Appelants obtain Wastewater System approval for a two bedroom seasonal dwelling. The dwelling shall not be occupied as a full-time residence unless the Wastewater System is approved for a year-around residence. Todd Seconds. So voted.

Anne Brown - I have the final draft of the School Lease Agreement for the Seletboard to sign. While waiting before the meeting I notice there are some typos in this document. Even though there are typos, the Selectboard can still sign the agreement. I will just make the corrections that need to be done and reprint those pages.

Ralph and Andy reviewed the lease agreement and concur that with the typographical corrections made is acceptable and is to be signed by the chair of the school board and Selectboard. Once corrections are completed the document will be recorded in the Plymouth land records and a copy maintained in the Selectboard’s files. Ralph and Anne both signed the agreement.

Ralph- With this agreement there will be a committee that over sees the School Building. Will there ever be an end to this committee.

Anne- I would think at the end of the Lease, there would no longer be a committee. This will be taken care of at the official closing at the end of the Lease.

Anne- The Town will need to make sure a few things are taken care of like the Alarm System, Electric Bill, emptying of the septic system, any water issues will need to be checked into, contracting someone to take care of the boiler in the School. John Dupont has been doing the lawn care for the School, but the Town will need to decide who they are going to use. The School Board will be keeping the phone for a little while because they still have some stuff in the building. The building does have internet and I think it is provided for free.

The School Board will maintain the insurance and we will forward the bill to the Town for reimbursement.

Anne- October 15, 2010 is the due date for the first Lease payment. The teachers are doing inventory of things the school has in the building. On July 23^rd they are planning on having a yard sale for schools or education providers to be able to buy things that are left in the school building. We will not be selling any of the computers. Julie Dupont will be the representative on the Committee. I will be available if help is needed with drafting a request for proposal with the School Building.

Ralph- I drafted a letter to be sent to Stitzel’s office regarding future legal representation for the Town, and the board’s need to reduce expenditures for legal counsel.  Before sending the letter, I will call the law firm’s office and discuss this matter with them.

Andy- This looks fine to me.

Ralph- I motion to adjourn. Andy seconds. So voted.

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 MINUTES

SELECTMEN’S MEETING

JUNE 7, 2010

Present:            Ralph Michael, Todd Blanchard, Andy Crossman, Larry Lynds and Jodi Blanchard(clerk)

Called meeting to order at 6:00 pm.

Approved and signed minutes from the May 17, 2010 meeting.

Approved and signed check warrants.

Ralph & Andy went with Larry to check some culverts and ditching that has been done.

Larry- We have $10,000 plus left in the Summer Class 3 budget. I would like to do some mulching and seeding on Lynds Hill Rd. before we get into our new budget July 1, 2010. This job will cost approximately $2,500.

 I would also like to hire an excavator to do some work on the Kingdom Rd., Chapman Rd., Pollard Rd. Weaver Hill Rd. and Scout Camp Rd. This work will cost approximately $7,500.

Ralph motions to approve Larry to do this work before July 1, 2010.

Todd Seconds. So Voted.

Larry- There are 3 culverts that need to be replaced on Lynds Hill Rd. that I propose to replace after July 1, 2010, as well as replacing the bridge in 5 Corners and the Bridge to John Wheeler’s house. We should replace all the steel and planks. I recommend giving the old steel to the Plymouth Snow Sneakers, so they could use it to make repairs to their snowmobile bridges. I am going to talk with the owners of the Yates property and the Ottaway property because we might have to go out of right of way. After replacing the two bridges, our oldest wooden bridge, which is only about 6 years old, is the Library Road Bridge.

Todd- How is the culvert at the end of Lynds Hill Rd. by the Cemetery?

Larry- It seems to be pretty good. We put come rip rap in last Fall.

Ralph- Larry, have you checked into doing work for the State in the Coolidge Park?

Larry- I figured it would take 2-3 days to do the mowing and about a day to do the grading. In my opinion, I would suggest they use the State’s equipment because they have more than we do. I don’t understand why they would need to hire the Town crew to do this work. A concern I have is if we were to agree to hire our equipment out to do this work then other people would expect to be able to hire the Town Crew and equipment. We could run into a lot of issues.

Todd- There are plenty of local people in the area that might need work.

Ralph- I recommend the State Park contact some local people/businesses to do the work. I will send Ethan

The Board discusses who might be able to do this work for the State Park.

John Norton

Norman Martin

D & D Excavating

Mosher Excavating

Sanderson Contracting

Ralph- I will send and email with these names to Ethan Phelps at the Dept. of Forest and Parks.

Larry- I wanted to talk with you about the Historical Building. When I attempted to turn the water on, I needed to call a plumber because it was leaking. We really need to replace the curb stop to fix this problem. This would cost approximately $1,000. We should get this replaced before the end of June 2010.

Ralph motions to replace the curb stop. Todd seconds. So voted.

Ralph- I received a copy of the School Lease Agreement. I think we should all review the document before we make any decisions. I want to review it and verify that the changes we recommended were made. We should ask the School Board to attend our next Board Meeting on June 21, 2010.

Ralph- We need to decide whether to purchase a VT State flag, a USA flag and stand for inside the Municipal Building. Ralph motions to purchase the 2 flags and a flag stand. Andy seconds. So voted.

Jodi- We also need to replace the flag and pole for the outside.

Ralph- Maybe we should get a quote on the 3 flags, stand and outside pole. Would the office be able to get quotes and have them ready for our next meeting?    Jodi- Yes

Ralph- We need to discuss the P sign. This sign is really for a Permit Notice. It should be posted by the Zoning Administrator with in 3 days after the approval of the permit. Betsy from the Planning Comm. Is saying the P sign needs to be posted 15 days before all Planning or ZBA hearings, as well as an affidavit signed stating the property owner posted the P sign.

Ralph- I feel the Planning Commission and ZBA need to adopt Rules of Procedure. I told Rachel in the office to hold off giving the affidavits to applicants until we discuss this issue.

Ralph- I feel we need to look into hiring a different attorney to handle legal issues for the Town.  Will Flender from Stitzel, Page & Fletcher sent an email Wendell Beckman the Friday before Gilmore, LLC’s hearing to inform him not to hear the hearing because the warning for the hearing was not correct. Jim Allen stated “As far as I am concerned there should not be a problem with still having the hearing for Gilmore, LLC. In my opinion I think Will Flender is giving bad advice to the Town. I make a motion to send Stitzel, Page & Fletcher a letter stating we will be looking for a local attorney and will no longer need their services. Todd seconds. So voted.

Ralph- I will draft a letter to send to Stitzel, Page & Fletcher. I think we should have an attorney review the letter before we send it to make sure everything is stated properly. The Board unanimously agrees to have an attorney review the letter before sending it.

Ralph- I make a motion that Jim Grace from General Land Co. be refunded the permit fees from February 2010. I have not had any response from Jim after sending a letter explaining why Jim Grace would like a refund.

Andy seconds. So voted.

Ralph- We received an agreement from Sally Hull at Two Rivers for a Grant to assist the Town of Plymouth

With the 2010 Scope of Work for Land Use forum. The Board unanimously agrees to sign the agreement.

Ralph motions to adjourn. Andy seconds. So voted.

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 MINUTES

SELECTMEN’S MEETING

MAY 17, 2010

Present:            Ralph Michael, Todd Blanchard, Andy Crossman, Larry Lynds, Bob Sheldon, John Farrand and                                   Julie Dupont.

Approved Excess Weight Permit for Fisk Trucking LLC.

Approved and signed Minutes from May 5^th meeting.

Approved and signed check warrants.

Ralph- I need to talk to Jim Allen about getting Zoning Permits processed in a timely manner.

The Selectboard reviewed expectations of the Highway Crew with Larry, Bob and John. See attached.

Ralph- We need to make sure the material the Town purchases for the roads is usable. Where do you get material from?

Larry- SLC, Markowski and Amsden. When it comes to the gravel, if you would like to discuss where we should get it from we should discuss that in private. If the Selectboard would like, we could visit some of the gravel pits so the Board could see the material before it is purchased.

Larry- I plan on doing some paving at the Notch and Lynds Hill Rd., and maybe the School yard or the Municipal yard.

Todd- I have noticed you have been doing a lot of ditching this year and last year compared to the past. It just seems like some of the ditching is a bit aggressive.

Larry- Is it ok to hire Komatsu to perform the first 500 hour service on the loader?

The Selectboard feels it is a good idea to hire Komatsu.

Ralph- Missy Lynds emailed me asking to have the Historical Society water turned on. Is this something you can take care of Larry?

Larry- We have hired Allen Plumbing & Heating for the last 4 years to turn the water on and shut the building down for the winter that way if a water line breaks or anything it would be Allen’s responsibility to repair it. I can turn the water on, but if anything happens I am going to shut everything off and call Allen’s.

Ralph- I think if we can save the Town some money by having you turn the water on, but I do agree that it is probably a good idea to hire a plumber to shut the building down.

Todd- Who does the regular maintenance on the trucks?

Larry- The 550 is sent to CJ’s for the maintenance, but the big trucks we do right hear.

Todd- Are you running an oil analysis?

Larry- No, but we are going to start to with the new loader.

Ralph- We need to establish an inventory of all culverts & bridges.

Andy- That process has already been started.

Ralph- Larry, the State has asked to hire the Highway crew to do some mowing, grading in the Coolidge State Park. Why don’t you take a look at the Park and see what amount of time it might take and see if you and your guys would be able to do the work.

Larry- At the next Selectboard meeting before you start would you guys like to take a trip to look at some culverts that need replacing.

Julie Dupont- We have a draft copy of the Purchase/Lease Agreement for the School. What I would suggest is the Selectboard review the agreement and if all three of you could attend the Special School Board Meeting on May 24^th at 6:30 pm we could get this all wrapped up. Fred Glover is the attorney that drafted the Agreement.  If any of you have any questions you can email me.

                        I will inform Missy Lynds that the School Board should have a copy of the current Lease for the Historical Society building. Also there was a discussion at the last School Board meeting about hiring a maintenance person for the school building. I know the Town did not vote for it in the budget at the Town Meeting, but the School Board is looking for ways that they could possibly pay for it out of the School budget.

The  Selectboard members will try to attending the Special School Board Meeting on May 24.

Reviewed mail.

Ralph- We received a letter from the Lister’s addressed to Property Valuation and Review asking for a 30 day extension on filing the Grand List.

The Selectboard unanimously agrees to have the Listers file for the extension. Ralph will contact the Listers regarding the letter to the State.

Ralph- I drafted a letter to Mr. Mrs. Olivieri regarding the Reading Pond Road.

Todd- They probably won’t be happy, but the way the road is it is not safe for the Town to take care of it.

Ralph- I also drafted a letter to Marji Graf regarding the Byways.. I sent a letter to Jim Allen informing him that Jim Grace from General Land Co. would like to be refunded the money for the permit fees that were submitted in February. I sent a letter to Wendy Tudor at the Municipal Planning Grant Program regarding the cost to the Town for the Future Land Use education for the Town’s people. (See Attached)

Ralph Motions to adjourn. Andy seconds. So voted.

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MINUTES

SELECTMEN’S MEETING

MAY 3, 2010

Present:            Ralph Michael, Todd Blanchard, Andy Crossman, Art Lynds, Marji Graf and Ethan Phelps

Approved and signed minutes from April 19^th meeting.

Approved and signed check warrants.

Ralph- We forgot to discuss Reading Pond Road last meeting. We did a site visit at 5:30 P.M. on April 19^th. The road measured at 15 feet wide.

In order for part of the road to be taken over by the Town the road needs to be 22 feet wide, the ditches need to be cleaned and the culvert needs to be extended. Ralph will draft a letter to John & Linda Olivieri, informing them what needs to be done in order to reclassify part of the Reading Pond Road.

Art Lynds- I wanted to discuss amending the present contract the Town has with ABLE Waste. I would like to use a company other than Wheelabrator to bring the Town’s solid waste. Wheelabrator wants to increase their rate by approximately 5%. There are other Co-Generating companies that would charge the same rate as Wheelabrator before the increase.  By amending the present contract, this will save the Town money. The Selectboard unanimously agrees to amend the existing contract with ABLE.

Marji Graf- I am from the Okemo Valley Chamber of Commerce and we are talking with the towns that Route 100 run through. We are trying to make Route 100 (including 100A) a Byway. A Byway is not just scenic, but may be established around one or more of six intrinsic qualities of an area or region.

1.                  Archeological

2.                  Cultural

3.                  Historical

4.                  Natural

5.                  Recreational

6.                  Scenic

See attached for further information.

Marji Graf- If the Selectboard is interested in the Byway Project I would like  the Board to submit a letter of support.

Ralph- I think this is something the Planning Board should be involved in.

The Selectboard is unanimously in favor of the Byway Project.

Ethan Phelps- I am the Parks Regional Manager at the Coolidge State Park. We would like to hire the Plymouth Town road crew to do some road side mowing and grading.

Todd- What is the time line?

Ethan- With in the next month or so. There is approximately 1.2 miles of gravel road that would need to be graded in May or June. We would like to have the road side mowing done annually.

Ralph- We will talk with Larry the Road Foreman as to whether the highway crew will have time or not. The Board will have to determine what the hourly rate will be for the operator and equipment used.

Ralph- Do we have rates established for the equipment?

Todd- Yes, but the rate that was established for us would not be high enough to charge out to someone else.

Ralph- We need to schedule Larry and the other two guys on the road crew to come to the next Selectmen’s Meeting on may 17, 2010.

Jodi will draft a note to Larry and his guys requesting them to come to the meeting on the 17^th.

Ralph- Jim Grace from General Land Co. would like the $532.00 refunded that was paid for 6 permits that were denied. Do we know if Jim Allen has been paid these fees yet?

Jodi Blanchard- I will look into whether Jim has been paid or not.

Ralph- How does the Board feel about Jim Grace getting his permit fees refunded?

The Board unanimously feels Jim Grace should be refunded the permit fees for the 6 applications that were submitted January 15, 2010.

Ralph motions to adjourn.  Andy Seconds. So Voted.

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MINUTES

SELECTMEN’S MEETING

APRIL 19, 2010

Present:            Ralph Michael, Todd Blanchard, Andy Crossman, Wendell Cameron, Ralph Cameron &

Edward Floyd

Ralph- Edward Floyd called me and would like to attend the Board meeting when we discuss the relocation of Gilmore Road. We also need to fill out the form for the Resolution for Planning Grant. Deb Stanicia will be in tonight to discuss the Talbot property at Hawk being donated to the Town.

Wendell Cameron & Ralph Cameron- We would like to get permission from the Selectboard to allow the Annual Jeep Jamboree to run through Plymouth. We have a list of areas the Jamboree will be traveling. This event will last two days. See attached.

Andy- How many jeeps are you expecting to participate?

Wendell- Last year we had 20 jeeps participating. We are trying to keep the amount at 20 jeeps.

The Selectboard agrees to allow the Jeep Jamboree run through Plymouth.

Ralph- A State Potable Water Supply Permit was submitted for Robert Naples located at 1492 Dublin Road.

Edward Floyd- I wanted to submit a plan for the road relocation. This plan was done at AOT standard. I also have supplemental conditions to go along with the plan in case the Board approves the relocation.

Ralph- What is the status of Gilmore Road? I am not even sure it is a Town road because it has never been officially documented on a map.

Ralph- We need to appoint an alternate authoring official for the Resolution for Municipal Planning Grant. Todd makes a motion to appoint himself. Andy seconds. So voted. The writer of the Grant is Sally Hull at Two Rivers Ottauquechee.

Ralph- I looked into information on the Hawk lots that were subdivided many years ago and some have been changed without filing a new permit or filing for an amended permit. In order to build on the Talbot lot a permit for an amended permit would need to be applied for. So we need to decide whether we want to pursue the donation of the Talbot lot or not.

Todd- I make a motion not to accept the Talbot lot donation, because it will cost the Town too much money. Andy seconds. So voted.

Ralph- Larry Lynds called to let me know he was leaving the Road Standard book so the Board could review and sign the Annual Financial Plan and the Town Road & Bridge Standard.

The Board reviewed and signed both The Annual Financial Plan & the Town Road & Bridge Standards.

Ralph- We received a letter form the State regarding Bridge # 37 on Town Highway 8 over Broad Brook. The State says this bridge needs to be posted at a max of 3 Ton.

Deb Stanicia- I was wondering if anything can be done about the condition of the LaCoss property. The house next to LaCoss’s property has been on the market for quite some time now and many people won’t even look at the house because of the mess.

Ralph- As far as I know there is not anything stating properties must be kept up. Maybe the Town should consider having an ordinance regarding messes like the LaCoss property.

Ralph- Rachel has informed the Board that the Town Clerk’s Office will be closed on Fridays.

The Selectboard does not have any issues with the Clerk’s Office being closed on Fridays.

Todd- When are we going to have Larry come in so we can discuss any suggestions or concerns? Do you think we should have all three highway workers come in together?

Ralph- I don’t think it would be a bad idea to have all of the road crew come to the meeting. We should have them come to our next meeting on May 3^rd.

Ralph motions to adjourn. Andy Seconds. So voted

MINUTES

SELECTMEN’S MEETING

APRIL 5, 2010

Present:            Ralph Michael, Todd Blanchard, Andy Crossman, Russ Tonkin, Bob Lambert, Kirk Turner, Al Poirier,

Peter Vollers, Mike Lynds, Rachel Lynds and Betsy Tonkin.

Russ and Bob had a meeting with Jonathan Croft from V Trans to discuss their Ancient Roads research. Some of the roads have been found but there are still a few of them that have not been found. Jonathan Croft said if the Ancient Roads Committee could not find all of the surveys for the roads, and the Selectboard would be willing to submit a letter to V Trans saying the roads with no surveys are legitimate, V Trans would accept them. Russ informed the Board that these roads are all being used. Jonathan Croft said that public hearings are not needed to confirm these roads.

Russ- The Ancient Roads map was not represented correctly in the past. TH 18 shows on the map that it goes off into the woods, but it actually goes straight to the 5 Corners Cemetery. We are still searching for surveys, and will come back sometime this summer and present a list of all the roads.

Approved and signed Liquor licenses for Salt Ash Inn and the Plymouth Cheese Factory.

Ralph- We will be doing a site visit on the Reading Pond Road at 5:30 pm on April 19, 2010 before the Selectmen’s Meeting. This visit is to check the road condition regarding Mr. & Mrs. Olivieri’s request for the town to take over part of the road.

Approved Excess Weight Permits for ABLE Waste Management, Cardinal Logistics, Carleton Trucking, Inc and Curtis Hollow Construction.

Reviewed mail.

Signed and approved minutes from the March 15, 2010 meeting.

Peter Vollers attended the meeting to discuss the Killington Stage Race which will take place on Memorial Day weekend. The race will travel on Route 100, Route 4 and Route 100A. The Selectboard does not have a problem with the Stage Race coming through Plymouth.

Kirk Turner and Al Poirier discussed the town radio issued to Joe Rebideau. Jim Esden from Wild Land Fire Corp is in charge of the fire wardens in this county. Jim recommends having a signed letter stating who is in charge of the situation when there is a fire. Joe would not sign the letter submitted to him. In October the PVFD discussed getting this letter signed and having a verbal agreement with Joe. On November 23^rd Joe called Kirk wanting a radio. On January 23, 2010 Kirk received a call from Todd informing him that Joe was given the letter to sign.

Kirk- The fire department is concerned that Joe has an agenda as to why he wants a radio. In Ludlow and West Windsor the Fire Warden is a member of the fire dept. In Killington the fire warden signed an agreement.

Andy- Joe has stated if there was a fire, Joe would turn over all responsibility to the fire dept. as soon as they got there.

Kirk- I do not feel there is any problem with the letter we are asking Joe to sign.

Ralph & Andy – We do not see any reason as to why Joe will not sign the letter.

Ralph- I will contact Joe and request that he sign the letter for the fire dept.

Kirk- Joe wants to have a P # assigned. Any of the other fire wardens called in as Plymouth Fire Warden.

Al submitted a schedule for training the Selectboard should attend

Kirk- If Joe still decides he does not want to sign the letter then he needs to attend a fire dept. business meeting to discuss his reasons. These meetings are held the 4^th Wednesday of every month.

Eric Johnsen- What is the Towns right of way on class 3 roads. I feel the Town crew is doing entirely too much brush cutting, and it seems like they are going further then the right of way.

Ralph- The statutory is 3 rods, which is a total of 49.5 feet. This measurement goes from the established center of the road

Mike Lynds- I am here on behalf of VASTA (four wheeler club). Denis Allen from the snowmobile club has a form that needs to be signed by the Selectboard. The list of roads that we are requesting to use is the same as last year that got approved (with one addition Bradley Hill Rd.)

Ralph- Crown Point Rd. is getting pretty bad. The board approves all of the roads on the list except for Crown Point Rd.(Local use only)

Mike- I will have the president of VASTA sign the approval and then get a copy of it to the Selctboard.

Rachel Lynds- I am here to discuss the Automatic Tax Payment Program and the use of credit cards. These programs would not cost the Town any money. The fees for the Credit cards would be automatically charged to the property owner’s credit card.

Ralph makes a motion to approve the automatic tax payment program and the credit card program. Todd seconds. So voted.

Rachel- The selectboard needs to delegate authority to someone on the board to sign check warrants that may need to be paid before any of your regular meetings. Ralph makes a motion that all of the board members have the authority to sign a warrant when needed. Todd seconds. So voted.

Rachel- I will be retiring at the end of December 2010. The board should probably advertise the position. Years ago the position was not advertised. We should advertise in the Vermont Journal, post it on the Town’s website and around town asking people to submit their resumes to the Selectboard. Ralph makes a motion that people need to submit their resumes for the Town Clerk’s position by July 1, 2010. Andy seconds. So voted.

Betsy Tonkin- The Planning and Zoning Boards would like to have a few educational meetings for the town’s people. Two Rivers would apply for a grant which would cover all costs of these meetings. The first meeting would be to explain what a Town Plan is and what it means.(the process of Town Plan formulation). The second meeting would be to submit the proposed Town Plan and discuss how it will affect the Zoning Regulations. The Selectboard would need to appoint a contact person. This person would only have to submit the grant application on line. Two Rivers will complete the application and email it to the contact person. Ralph offered to be the contact person for the grant application process. Andy makes a motion to appoint Ralph as the contact person. Todd seconds. So voted.

Ralph-The Board needs to do a site visit on Reading Pond Rd, after a request from the Olivieris’ that the Town take over part of the road. We should review the Highway Standards for Plymouth and make any changes or updates needed. There are a few changes that should be made

1.         Clear title of a minimum of 3 rods right of way should be deeded to the Town or Municipality with a description of the limits of the right of way. Road must be 24 feet in width.

            2.         All roads to be dedicated as town roads more than 8% shall be paved.

We will do a site visit on Reading Pond Road on April 19, 2010 at 5:30 p.m. before the Selectmen’s Meeting.

Ralph- In reference to the Gilmore Rd. access to the Kingdom Road submitted by Edward Floyd, the developer should be paying all costs that accrue including all attorney fees, to have this road relocated. The Board agrees.

Ralph- I will draft a letter and bring it to the next meeting, informing Will Flender that the land owner should be paying all fees pertaining to the road relocation and not the Town. I will also send an email to Will Flender informing him we will address the road relocation at our next meeting.

Ralph- Art Lynds called to ask the Selectboard to appoint an alternate for the Planning Board and ZBA. I talked with Jeff Sailer and he would be willing to be an alternate for the Planning Board and ZBA but not a fulltime member.

Ralph makes a motion to appoint Jeff Sailer. Andy seconds. So voted.

The Selectboard reviews a draft copy of the new Town Personnel Policy. Todd makes a motion to accept the Personnel Policy as written. Ralph seconds. So voted. A copy of this policy is attached to these minutes.

Ralph- We need to research accepting ownership of the Talbot lot at Hawk, due to the costs that the Town will accrue.

Todd submitted a copy of new winter and summer times sheets and  equipment log. Ralph makes a motion to accept these new time sheets and equipment log. Todd Seconds. So voted.

Ralph- The Selectboard and Planning Board need to keep the lines of communication open. I will attend some of the Panning meetings to keep up to date with things

Ralph makes a motion to have the Selectmen’s draft minutes posted on the Town Website. Todd Seconds. So voted.

Approved and signed check warrants.

Ralph makes a motion to adjourn. Andy seconds. So voted.

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MINUTES

SELECTMENS MEETING

MARCH 8, 2010

Present:            Ralph Michael, Todd Blanchard, Andy Crossman and Rachel Lynds

Meeting called to order at 6:00 PM.

The select board discusses who will be the chair of the board. Andy makes a motion to appoint Ralph. Todd seconds. The board appoints Ralph as Chair of the Board.

Ralph makes a motion that the Select Board have Rules and Procedures to follow by. Todd Seconds. So voted.

(SEE ATTACHED)

Ralph- The Selectboard needs to appoint Town Officials. We should wait to appoint Representatives for Two Rivers Ottaquechee until the Planning Commission gives the Selectboard recommendations. Regarding the Planning Commission, everyone on the board does not need to be a Plymouth Resident as long as a majority of the board is a resident. Ralph makes a motion to appoint Town Officials as follows:

Road Foreman -         Larry Lynds

Health Officer -          Russ Tonkin

Zoning Admin. -          Jim Allen -Until the Planning Board nominates at least 2 people as Zoning Administrator then the Selectboard will appoint someone as Zoning Admin.

Planning Commission-           Karen Bruyn                          Art Lynds

                                                Jim Rieger                              Betsy Tonkin

                                                Tom Derlinga                         Tom Philips

                                                Wendall Beckman

Zoning Board of Adjustment-

                                                Karen Bruyn                          Art Lynds

                                                Jim Rieger                              Tom Derlinga

                                                Wendall Beckman

Fence Viewers -                     John Dupont

                                                John S. Sailer

                                                John Wheeler

Pound Keepers-                     Justus Pingree                       

                                                Ted Hall

Tree Warden-             John S. Sailer

Weigher of Coal-                    Mary Jo Schimpfhauser

Emergency Coordinator-       John Eckrote

Service Officer-                      Margo Marrone

Todd Seconds. The Officials are appointed for a 1 year term. When appointing officials on a board there needs to be an odd number of members, in order to have a quorum.

Ralph suggest the town sends letters to appointed officials informing them of their appointents. We should also send a letter to any officials that were not reappointed. Ralph asked Rachel if she would be willing to send these letters out. Rachel said she would mail the letters out the next day.

Ralph also asked Rachel if she would add his email address to the Town Website. Rachel said she would add Ralph’s email to the website.

Andy-The Selectboard needs to keep track better of the spending in Town.

Todd- There has been a lot of work done in town by the road crew that did not need to be done. All projects should be presented to the Selectboard before starting them.

Ralph- There needs to be better communication between the selectboard and the Road Foreman. The Road Foreman needs to attend the Selectboard meetings quite frequently to keep the lines of communication open. We should make a list of any questions regarding the town crew, then discuss them with the foreman in executive session. We also need to get a grasp on budgeted issues. Example: insurance and legal fees.

Ralph- I do not understand why the town needs to have a wastewater Administrator. In September 2007 the town no longer had a wastewater ordinance. It is unfair to charge an additional fee to the applicants when these permits have to be approved by the state anyways.  The Zoning Administrator needs to make sure all Wastewater and/or state permits are in place before a Zoning Application can be approved. Ralph makes a motion not to appoint a Wastewater Administrator. Andy seconds. So voted.

Rachel submitted the 911 survey slips that were sent with the tax bills in December. Russ Tonkin tallied the results and out of 400 responses there are 163 that need attention.

Ralph- The Selectboard needs to make sure that 911 #’s are being taken cared of.

Ralph motions to delegate the responsibility of issuing Access Permits to the Road Foreman, as it was in the past. Andy seconds. So voted.  Rachel or Jodi will send a letter to Larry Lynds requesting he be responsible for issuing Access Permits again.

Art Lynds submitted his letter of resignation from the Board of Listers.

Todd- The Selectboard needs to appoint someone as Lister to fill in for the rest of Art’s term this year. In March 2011 this person would need to run for the remaining  year of Art’s term. Todd motions to appoint Michelle Pingree to the Lister’s position. Michelle has shown interest in being a Lister again. Ralph seconds. So voted.

Aapproved Excess Weight Permits for L.E. Weed, Markowski and S D Ireland Concrete.

Approved Liquor License for Echo Lake Inn.

Ralph motions to adjourn. Andy seconds. So voted.

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MINUTES

SELECTMENS MEETING

FEBRUARY 15, 2010

Present:            Jim Allen, Todd Blanchard, Andy Crossman and Tom Marrone

Reviewed mail.

Approved and signed check warrants.

Approved and signed minutes from January 25, 2010 Access Hearing for Edward Floyd and Michael Mahoney.

Jim makes a motion to submit the last payment due to Bill Krajeski from NEMC in the amount of $5,512.50. Andy seconds. So voted.

Tom Marrone attended the meeting to discuss the Board of Civil Authority appeals. Tom informs the selectboard that Carol Ackley will be out of work for 6 weeks plus because she is having surgery. Tom feels Bill Krajeski needs to attend some of the BCA appeals. Tom has already talked with Bill and Bill agreed to help. Tom is figuring he will need Bill to attend approximately 20 appeals. He feels it would be a benefit for Bill to attend the Birch Landing appeals as well as some of the higher assessed Hawk homes. Tom thinks 2 to 3 days would be enough for the appeals to be heard. Saturday appeals will be a lot better considering it will cost about $500 per day for Bill to attend hearings. Tom states, there should be enough funds in the reappraisal account to cover Bill helping with the appeals. Tom is going to talk with Rachel to get the appeals scheduled that Bill will be helping with. The Board approves Bill Krajeski from NEMC to help Tom  for 2-3 days with the BCA appeals.

Tom explains there is one more issue he would like to discuss with the board. Tom is not sure what is going on with Art Lynds. He feels somebody needs to talk to Art, and find out what he intends to do in the Listers position. Art has not been participating in the BCA appeals. Tom states that even though Art does not have the experience or back ground dealing with appeals, he should still be attempting to help.  Art has only attended one Lister seminar and Tom feels it would be nice if Art was to step down from the Lister’s position, so someone who is willing to help could be appointed.

Todd states the selectboard does not have any say over the Listers, and they can not do anything about Art’s lack of participation in his Lister responsibilities.

Todd discusses the road crew’s time sheets. He feels the road crew should complete their time sheets for payroll in addition to completing there daily work logs.

Todd motions. Jim Seconds. So voted.

The Board discusses the Sheriff’s duties in town. The board feels the sheriffs should handle any situations that arise in town during their shift. Jim stated there is a student in town that is being stalked by someone. The board feels it is important for the town to be able to contact the Sheriff’s while in town to help with situations besides traffic control.

Jim makes a motion to authorize the Sheriff’s Dept. to respond to any situations that arise in town while on duty. Todd seconds. So voted.

Todd makes a motion to change the Selectmen’s Meeting from every 3^rd Monday each month to every 1^st and 3^rd Monday of each month. Jim seconds. So voted.

Todd makes a motion for the Town’s Web Site to be utilized more. He makes a suggestion to post Minutes of meetings in town as well as warnings or any other important information.  Jim seconds. So voted

Todd states he will talk with Rachel to see what needs to be done to have this information posted on the Town Web Site.

Todd motions putting together a spread sheet to track equipment usage, and have Larry fill it out and submit it to the Selectboard on a monthly basis. Jim seconds. So voted.

Todd makes a motion to take an inventory of the tools the highway crew and fire department use and replace any tools that need to be.  Andy seconds. So voted.

Jim mentioned the Planning Board had a discussion after the hearing on Feb 12^th. They are discussing, the possibility of changing part of the proposed Town Plans 27 acre zone back to a 10 acre zone.

Todd makes a motion to appoint Jim to sign any documents needed for the Lease / Purchase of the Town Loader.  Any Seconds. So voted.

 Jim motions to adjourn. Andy seconds. So voted.

in order to have the reports back from the printer and mailed on time.

Selectboard goes into executive session again at 8:25 p.m.

Meeting Adjourned at 9:10 p.m.

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