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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - BoS - 12/17/2019 Selectmen Minutes December 17, 2019 Selectmen's Meeting Town Hall-Selectmen Office 41 Highland Avenue Cohasset, MA Selectmen Present: Kevin McCarthy Paul Schubert Diane Kennedy Keri Thompson Jack Creighton arrived @ 7:36 p.m. Others Present: Christopher Senior,Town Manager Chairman McCarthy called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. Roll Call Vote: Diane Kennedy-Present, Paul Schubert-Present, Kevin McCarthy-Present, Keri Thompson-Present. 4 Chairman McCarthy stated they will not need to have an executive session tonight. Pledge-Recited (lead by the Webelos Den). Introduction of Webelos Den-Chairman McCarthy welcomed the Webelos 2 Den (Cub Scouts). Mr. Pete Simmons stated the boys are working hard to complete the Webelos requirements so they can successfully transition into Boy Scouts. As part of the "Building a Better World",the boys are learning about the history of the U.S. Flag, Rights and Duties of Citizenship, Rule of Law and community leadership. The Board had a brief discussion with the boys and answered questions. Public Comment-Shawn Moran-311 Beechwood Street stated there is an incomplete sidewalk on Beechwood Street near his property. He would like to know if it will be completed. He said it is a public safety issue. Also, he is having issues with road drainage in his driveway from the street runoff. Mr. Senior will have DPW investigate and asked Mr. Moran to contact the Selectmen's office directly. Ratify Police Lieutenant Contract-Vote-Director of Human Resources Miriam Johnson reviewed the changes to the contract with the Board. Motion by Selectman Kennedy to ratify the Cohasset Superior Officer contract as presented, seconded by Selectman Schubert and the vote was unanimous (4-0). Request for Extension of Hours-Red Lion Inn-Wedding 12/31/19-Michael Carlyle was present and stated he was just notified that they have a wedding in the barn on 12/31/19 and are requesting extended hours in the barn and cave for the wedding guests until 2 a.m. on New Year's Eve. He apologized for the late notice to the Board. Motion by Selectman Kennedy to approve the extension of hours at the Red Lion Inn on 12/31/19 until 2 a.m. on 1/1/20 for wedding guests in the barn and cave, seconded by Selectman Thompson and the vote was unanimous (4-0). Mr. Senior advised the Board they also received a requested for extension of hours from Curtis Liquors. Motion by Selectman Schubert to discuss this request under topics not reasonably anticipated 48 hours in advance, seconded by Selectman Kennedy and the vote was unanimous (4-0). Extension of Hours-Mr. Senior stated Curtis liquors has requested to extend their hours on Sunday, December 22, 2019 until 9 p.m. Motion by Selectman Schubert to approve the extension of hours at 1 Selectmen Minutes December 17, 2019 Curtis Liquors until 9 p.m. on 12/22/19,seconded by Selectman Kennedy and the vote was unanimous (4-0). Cedar Acres Betterment-Director of Finance Don Piatt and Treasurer/Collector Paula Linhares were present. Mr. Piatt reviewed the schedule of road betterments for the residents of Cedar Acres Lane and Cedar Acres Drive. The total betterment is $154,420.20 and the betterment per resident is$7,721.01. Motion by Selectman Kennedy to commit$154,420.20 total betterment as presented,seconded by Selectman Schubert and the vote was unanimous (4-0). Investment Update 9/30/19-Treasu rer/Col lector Paula Linhares stated all investment returns are positive for the quarter. Expendable Trusts investments are up 1%for the quarter, Permanent Trust Funds are up 2/1%for the quarter, OPEB funds are up 1.3%for the quarter and Investment earnings for the quarter were $230,494. The Board had a brief discussion. Taxation Aid Committee-Mrs. Linhares stated the Committee has met several times. They received 10 responses and issued 10 awards totaling$694.00. She thanked the Committee for their work and Director of Assessing Mary Quill, Veterans Officer Phil Mahoney and Director of Elder Affairs Nancy Lafauce. The Committee will meet one more time to approve minutes and then it can be sunset. Motion by Selectman Schubert to move the Town Manager's Update to the next item on the agenda, seconded by Selectman Thompson and the vote was unanimous (4-0). Town Manager Update-Town Hall Project Update-Mr. Senior advised the Board the Town Hall Committee has identified the top two candidates for the Owners Project Manager. They will begin negotiations with both. The next step would be to have the Committee come and gave the Board an update. The Committee has been discussing repair or rebuild analysis of the building. They also have discussed swing space for staff. They are in the process of starting the records management project right after the new year. Phil Lehr is the newest member on the Town Hall Committee and is a great addition. The Committee plans to hold a public meeting in early 2020. Power Reliability Update-Mr. Senior stated he, Chief Silvia and Glenn Pratt toured the National Grid emergency center in Brockton. It was very informative, and he would like for the Board to find a time in the new year to see it as well. It is important to see and understand the flow. National Grid does a lot of preparation before storms. They discussed maintenance of trees, reliability of the grid and updates to the grid. They expressed concern with the October storm and how slowly power was restored. Flash Vote Update-Mr. Senior stated this company does community poling. Anyone in the community can sign up for it. He is waiting for materials requested by Selectman Creighton and will send info to the Board for review. Mr. Senior gave each member of the Board a copy of the book"Love Where You Live". He asked the Board to read and plan to discuss at dinner after the Board's goals meeting On January 7. Community Electrical Aggregation Public Review Period-Chairman McCarthy explained the process the Town has gone through to get to this point. This public review period had been widely advertised in the Mariner, on the Town website and social media. Alternative Energy Committee Member Steve Wenner gave an overview of the approval of Annual Town Meeting to authorize the Board of Selectmen to develop a Cohasset Community Choice Aggregation plan which is on the Town website. Residents and businesses have been invited to offer oral/written comments on the plan from 12-4-19 through 12/18/19. After this public review,the plan will be submitted to the MA Department of Public Utilities for approval. Mary Jo Larson-12 Virginia Lane asked if someone opts out would they get a choice of low cost, 26%clean or 100% renewable. Mr. Wenner stated if someone opts out, they go back to what 2 Selectmen Minutes December 17, 2019 they had before. There would be no change. Rick Railsback-100 Pond Street asked if Good Energy provided any price estimates based on todays rates of what the premium of 100% renewal would be. Mr. Wenner stated of the 56 towns in MA 80%were able to get a rate below the base utility price. Mr. Railsback stated this shows the aggregate approach is a better choice for the consumer. Katie Dugan- 100 Blackrock Road asked if they have a FAQ sheet that residents can see. Mr.Senior stated it is up on the Town website. Mrs. Dugan asked if the link could be put on the town Facebook page as well. Rick Railsback asked how they will know that the energy broker is guaranteed and not from a cold source. Mr. Wenner stated there are Renewable Energy Certificates they purchase to prove. Mary Jo Larson there is a high degree of reliability as DEP has oversight of this. Rick Railsback praised Mr. Wenner and the whole committee for all the work the have done on behalf of the town. Tim Davis-257 Atlantic Avenue asked if the Renewable Energy Certificates are the same as renewable energy credits. Mary Jo Larson responded they are not the same. Mr. Wenner reviewed the next steps. Two residents sent the following emails; 1 just wanted to voice my support for the community choice electricity aggregation project. My name is Sarah Burgess and/live at 30 Fern way in Cohasset. We moved from England last year and went from a variety of suppliers with each competing for our business to national grid and no easy cost-effective ways to find green alternatives. While this doesn't open the number of suppliers is done mean that together as a town, with the 100%option, we could get a better rate and we're reducing our carbon footprint as a community. The climate crisis needs addressing and while governments let lobbyists and dollar bills make their policy, we can think of our children and our neighbors in the world and do the right thing to ensure we do our part to lesson our impact. If the climate temperature rises and the seas rise by just 8 inches, Cohasset's landscape will look very different for our children and our grandchildren. Let's be part of the solution. Thank you and thank you to all those that were part of the team who researched and compiled this proposal. Submitted by Sarah Burgess. How will adoption of Aggregate power purchase by Cohasset effect our ability to sell Solar power from our installed solar systems to National Grid? We have two solar systems installed on our home. We have net metering with National Grid and receive checks monthly from National Grid for solar power produced in excess of power used in our home. If Cohasset adopts Aggregate power purchases, will we continue to be able to use net metering, sell our solar power production to National Grid, and receive payments for excess power production? Submitted by Michael and Martha Gangemi-24 Rust Way. This question was answered by Steve Wenner. If a resident's solar array produces more than their usage, they would not be affected by CCA and would continue to be paid by NG for their excess power. If they are enrolled in the CCA and their solar production falls short of their usage, the CCA would apply to the balance. 1 have copied John O'Rourke of Good Energy to comment if 1 am in error. John O'Rourke of Good Energy responded, "That is correct". Cohasset Historical Commission-Request of approval (placement of plaque Sidney Square)-Jackie Dormitzer of the Historical Commission was present. Mrs. Dormitzer stated the Historical Commission is requesting approval to put a plaque (on a small boulder) on Sidney Square, the area across from the Cohasset Harbor Inn on Elm Street. They are marking the site of a fisherman's well used there during the 19t" century for Cohasset's fishing fleet. Selectman Kennedy asked that the rock be aesthetically pleasing. Mrs. Dormitzer stated the rock will be natural looking and not obtrusive. The Board had a brief discussion. Motion by Selectman Creighton to approve placement of the plaque subject to review,seconded by Selectman Thompson and the vote was unanimous(5-0). 3 Selectmen Minutes December 17, 2019 Post-Employment Benefits Committee-Chairman Tim Davis and member Katie Dugan were present. Chairman Davis gave an overview and history of the committee. Mrs. Dugan suggested the Board renew the committee and have it become a permanent committee. They reviewed the two draft policies they would like the Board to give input and consider adopting. The two policies are OPEB Trust Funding Policy and OPEB Trust Investment Policy. The Board had a lengthy discussion. The PEB Committee will come back in January to continue discussion. Board/Committee Appointments-Cohasset Housing Authority-Chairman of Cohasset Housing Authority Taffy Nothnagle and applicant Donna McGee were present. Chairman Nothnagle is requesting that the Board appoint Donna McGee to the CHA until the next election. Mrs. McGee has previously served on the CHA. The CHA has recommended the appointment. The Board had a brief discussion about the process of the appointment. Motion by Selectman Creighton to appoint Donna McGee to the Cohasset Housing Authority until the next election pending issues with appointment process, seconded by Selectman Schubert and the vote was unanimous (5-0). Board of Registrars-Mr. Senior advised the Board there is a vacancy on the Board of Registrars. The Town Clerk asked for three names from the Democratic Town Committee. They submitted one members name. Motion by Selectman Schubert to appoint Ronald Goodwin to the Board of Registrars to fill an unexpired term until June 20, 2021, seconded by Selectman Thompson and the vote was unanimous (5-0). 250th Committee-Update-Chairman Joy Pratt Schiffmann, Glenn Pratt and Kara Bianchi were present. They recently launched a Pop-Up Shop with 2501" merchandise. They are looking forward to the kick-off event on the Common on January 1, 2020. They have been promoting it widely. They would also like to discuss a proposal for a memorial at Wadleigh Park. Michael Dick and Susan Hoadley were present to discuss the proposal which is estimated to cost approximately$143,000 and they hope to get CPC funds. They have had conversations with the Chairman of Conservation and the Conservation Agent. They are trying to honor those that went to sea and did not come back. They have spoke with John Cavanaro and are confident he will present a design that will pass muster. Mr. Cavanaro knows the area and recognizes that any design would have to survive in that area. The Board had a brief discussion. Selectman Thompson stated the park there needs a facelift and she is interested in hearing more about the project. Selectman Kennedy stated she has some prejudice with memorials outside of cemeteries. She would love to see a facelift of the area but stated there are also challenges with parking, road designs and traffic flow in that area. Selectman Schubert stated there may be issues with the area due to surf,tide and storms. Selectman Creighton stated it is a great plan. The area there is an underutilized part of Cohasset. He supports the project. Chairman McCarthy stated parking is a concern. He added that is seems like a big project and may be the beginning of something that could take 2-3 years. It is interesting for the town but, he asked how it fits in with the 250t"Anniversary. He asked if they have discussed with the Town Manager. They would also need more public input. Mr. Pratt stated they are looking for a go ahead from the Board to keep working on the idea since it is town property. Chairman McCarthy stated the Board isn't giving an official commitment, but they can continue to explore and come back to the Board. Liquor License Renewal-Renewal Applications for Off-Premises License, Notice of Hearing for Renewals, Notice of Hearing due to Non-Payment of Sums owed to Town-Sajjan Enterprises, LLC- Attorney for Cohasset Jim Lampke,Attorney for Sajjan Enterprises Walter Sullivan and the applicants representative Jogi Sajjan. 4 Selectmen Minutes December 17, 2019 Attorney Lampke give a quick history of the liquor licenses for Sajjan, LLC and the Board needs to act on the renewal of the licenses for 2016 though 2019. The ABCC recommended that the Board renew the licenses for those years. The licenses states the address as 27-29 South Main Street. The fees have been paid however, not all the checks have cleared yet. Motion by Selectman Schubert to approve the liquor licenses for Sajjan Enterprises, LLC for 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 pending the funds clear,seconded by Selectman Kennedy and the vote was unanimous(5-0). Attorney Lampke explained the situation with 2020 license. This is a unique case. The applicant needs a location for the license. The Board could approve the license and advise the licensee that unless the 2020 license is exercised at a location approved by the Board and the ABCC by 7/1/2020 the Board will hold a hearing and vote to potentially cancel the license. This is what he recommends the Board do so that the issue can be resolved. Either Sajjan Enterprises, LLC finds and get approval for a location or the Board cancels that license and the license becomes available. The Board had a brief discussion. They Board had concerns that the applicant Debra Sajjan was not present tonight. The Board also expressed concerns with not having a location currently. Meg Wheeler 118 Forest Avenue stated as a small business owner in town she has seen reputable businesses come before the Board and put through a long rigorous process and doesn't think it is fair to other businesses to approve this. Mr. Senior stated if the Board rejects the license the applicant has the right to appeal and they will be in the same situation. Motion by Selectman Schubert to approve the license for Sajjan Enterprises, LLC and be advised that if the 2020 licensee is not exercised and in operation by July 1, 2020 a hearing will be held shortly after that date,for which you will receive notice,as to whether any licenses you hold should not issue, or be modified, suspended, revoked, canceled or declared forfeited or other appropriate administrative action be taken, including for non-use, not having a location approved by the LLA and the ABCC from which to exercise the license and/or for other lawful reasons. The LLA is giving six months' notice that you must secure a place approved by the LLA and the ABCC from which to operate your license and be in operation or transfer your license to a licensee approved by the Town and the ABCC or turn in the license, or the LLA will hold a hearing or hearings as stated; and that the licensee be further advised you should not interpret the actions of the Town, now or in the past,to be an indication that the Town was or is satisfied with any progress or actions you had taken or are taking to make use of your license and/or transfer it to a new location, seconded by Chairman McCarthy. Roll Call Vote: Diane Kennedy-Aye, Paul Schubert-Aye, Kevin McCarthy-Aye, Keri Thompson-Nay,Jack Creighton- Nay. Motion passed 3-2. Aquaculture/Shellfishing-Update-Mr. Senior advised the Board the Town of Scituate approved the Shellfishing regulations. This allows a Cohasset resident to obtain a license. He is working on finalizing a contract with the consultant over the next couple of weeks who specializes in Aquaculture/Shellfishing. He has spoken with counsel about how Cohasset can protect its infrastructure. He will keep the Board informed. The Board agreed they need to be protective of the Town and its assets. They discussed having a moratorium on additional users. David Dauphinee-Scituate stated he came to the meeting tonight because he is seeing conflicting comments on social media. Chairman McCarthy stated the social media information is from a private group and doesn't reflect the vote of the Board of Selectmen. Town Manager Update-All Facilities Stickers-Mr. Senior stated they are running into challenges. They may have to change the stickers and add bar codes. They are looking into ways of streamlining. They 5 Selectmen Minutes December 17, 2019 discussed having an address-based system instead of a car-based system but that may be a year away. He will keep the Board updated. Fundamental Speed Limit-Mr. Senior advised the Board the Police Chief sent a memo with his recommendations of fine increases and speed limit. The speed limit signs will only be at the entrances of the Town. Scituate has adopted the Fundamental Speed Limit and it is working. Mr. Senior will put on the 1/28/2020 agenda for further discussion/approval. Mr. Senior advised the Board he will work on a schedule of meetings for the next four months and forward to the Board. Mr. Senior advised the Board that Town Hall will close at 1 p.m. on Christmas Eve and closed on Christmas Day. They will close at 4:30 p.m. on New Year's Eve and remain closed on New Year's Day. Selectmen Comments-Selectman Kennedy congratulated the community and Chamber of Commerce on the Christmas Stroll. It was a great event. Selectman Schubert stated he was walking his dog on Sohier Street this morning and cars were going by at 43 mph. He is in favor of the speed limit changes. Selectman Thompson wish everyone happy holidays. The 2501" Pop-Up Shop was great. Selectman Creighton agreed the Stroll was a success and noted the many families who attended. Motion by Selectman Kennedy to adjourn, seconded by Selectman Schubert and the vote was unanimous(5-0). The meeting adjourned at 11:15 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Kevin McCarthy, Chairman Documents Lt. Police Contract Cedar Acres Betterment Investment Update Community Electrical Aggregation Historical Commission request PEB Proposal Housing Authority Application Board of Registrars 250t" Committee update Liquor License-Sajjan Enterprises Fundamental Speed Limit memo 6