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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - BoS - 08/03/2009 Minutes—Board of Selectmen August 3, 2009 Selectmen Present: Paul Carlson, Chairman Karen Quigley Ralph Dormitzer Edwin G. Carr Selectman Absent: Frederick Koed Others Present: William R. Griffin,Town Manager Jennifer Oram, Selectmen's Clerk Chairman Paul Carlson called the meeting to order at 7:OO13M. Town Manager's Report Town Manager, William Griffin, reviewed the traffic safety measures that have been suggested to be implemented by Safety Officer William Quigley at the intersection of Pond Street and Clay Spring Road. Selectman Karen Quigley stated that she lives on Clay Spring and speeding is a cause for concern on that road. She also suggested that the white line at the end of Clay Spring be brought out further past the stone walls located at the end of the road. Selectman Quigley moved to approve the recommended safety measures. Selectman Ralph Dormitzer seconded the motion and the vote was unanimous(4-0). Parking and Signage improvements in various locations around Town—Mr. Griffin reviewed the changes that have become recommended by Police Chief James Hussey and Safety Officer William Quigley for the Board. Selectman Dormitzer stated that he did not see the need for four(4) 15 minute parking spots in front of Tedeschis, he feels there should only be one hour parking until 6PM in the village. Selectman Dormitzer also did not agree with the use of the words "tow zone" as he feels the language is too strong. He stated that he did not feel there was an issue at the Light keeper's [Government Island]. Selectman Quigley stated that she disagreed and that she has witnessed many issues on Government Island. She added that during the past week, she had attended a meeting addressing parking issues in Town and this area was discussed at length. Chairman Carlson stated that he agreed with Selectman Dormitzer that there did not need to be four(4) 15 minute parking signs in front of Tedeschis. He does feel however that there needs to be something and suggested that the Chief talk with the store manager. Chairman Carlson suggested that the language regarding towing be looked into further as well as a suggested sign on North Main Street. Selectmen Quigley asked the Board if they would consider raising the fine on Government Island from $25 to $50. Mr. Griffin stated he would bring all of the Board's questions and concerns to the Chief and bring back the proposal on a future agenda. Selectmen's Comment Period Selectman Quigley stated that she had spoken to Shellfish Constable, Paul Pattison,who mentioned some alarming information regarding the health of the harbor and the Cohasset coastline, and the ability to harvest shellfish. She suggested they have him come in before the Board to elaborate. Chairman Carlson asked for an update on the progress for hiring the Elder Affairs Director. Mr. Griffin stated that thirty five people applied and they are about to interview the final four candidates. Selectmen—8.3.09-JBO 1 Minutes—Board of Selectmen August 3, 2009 Public Comment Period—Fiona McBride and Jessie Fitts,Volunteer Staff of the CSCR addressed the Board. Ms. McBride asked the Board to consider their request for a movie night at CSCR for a fundraiser. They are requesting to show films on Thursdays in the summer on the side of CSCR building. They have reviewed their plans with the closest abutters and sent letters the rest of Parker Avenue. They have not heard anything negative at this point. After a brief discussion, the Board suggested that after the first few showings,they ask the neighbors if they have any complaints. Selectman Carr moved to approve the request. Selectman Dormitzer seconded the motion and the vote was unanimous(4- 0). Minutes Approval—Selectman Carr moved to approve the minutes of July 6, 2009 as amended. Selectman Quigley seconded the motion and the vote was unanimous(3-0,Selectman Dormitzer not present at the July 6, 2009 meeting). Proclamation—Chairman Paul Carlson read aloud the Proclamation the Board had signed and issued to Paul Francis Pozniak in recognition of his attaining the rank of Eagle Scout. Bond Issue Approval—Selectman Dormitzer moved to authorize the refinancing$19,208,000 with Fidelity Investments for terms between one and twenty years with a true interest rate of 3.38%for various municipal projects. Selectman Carr seconded the motion and the vote was unanimous(4-0). Discussion on Avalon Sidewalk Plan—The Board reviewed the options that had been discussed at a previous meeting and a site visit. At the request of the Board, Scott Dale of Avalon asked Mass Highway if a signal could replace the flashing yellow light at 3A and Sohier Street. His request has been denied. The Board discussed the locations and agreed that running the sidewalk across the street in front of the businesses and down to Sanctuary Pond Road and King Street thus tying into the TOD property would be the best plan. There may even be enough funding to go up Sohier Street and connect the sidewalk there, but they will wait and see. Clark Brewer of the Planning Board addressed the Board and stated that during a hearing with the Planning Board, owners of the land adjacent to Avalon mentioned they may build a sidewalk through their property that would connect with Avalon. After further discussion the Board agreed to wait to hear what land owner may be proposing. Clark Brewer—Green Communities Grant Application—Clark Brewer of the Planning Board and Mr. Andrew Willard of the Alternative Energy Committee addressed the Board. Mr. Brewer reviewed the background of the Green Communities act for the Board stating that the act was passed a year ago with the revisions being released on July 10th. The Town has until August 14th to submit its application for technical assistance. Mr. Brewer and Mr. Willard reviewed the various monetary amounts that would be available to the Towns to assist them in becoming a green community. They then reviewed the four stimulus programs for the towns to complete in order to become a green community. There was an extensive conversation about the process and what sort of commitment would be required of the Town. Selectman Dormitzer stated he was concerned about the program as he felt it was more of a coercive program and not one that gives incentive to the Town. He is concerned that if the Town does not meet the criteria that is required by the act,the Town will have to return the grants. Selectman Quigley read an excerpt from an email that stated that should the Town decide not to move forward with the process,there would be 'no financial penalty'. Chairman Carlson agreed there seemed to be ways to get out and in the end,the decision will come to a Town Meeting vote. Selectman Dormitzer would like an opinion from Town Counsel to confirm there would not be any financial penalties to the Town should it agree to become a green community and then withdraw from the process. Chairman Carlson asked Mr. Griffin to do so and said the Board will meet on the issue on the 10th of August. Selectmen—8.3.09-JBO 2 Minutes—Board of Selectmen August 3, 2009 Woody Chittick,Chairman of the Zoning Board of Appeals—Mr. Brewer reviewed the conversation he had with the Board regarding the Avalon sidewalk. Mr. Chittick agreed with the Board that it should wait to what happens with the other development. Cable Advisory Committee- Chairman of the Committee, Pat Martin, and Mr.James Morrison addressed the Board. Ms. Martin explained the need for a studio space. She stated that Clark Brewer, an Architect and a member of the Planning Board, has proposed building a studio in the back of the auditorium. She reviewed the various pieces of equipment that will be needed, as well as how the studio could work in unison with the Cohasset Drama Club (CDC),Town Elections etc. Mr. Brewer reviewed the proposed plans to the Board. Town Clerk, Marion Douglas, asked for clarification on the studios location. CDC President, Lisa Pratt was also in attendance and agreed that they could work to together and that further discussions should be had. Chairman Carlson addressed scheduling and use of the area. Ms. Pratt stated she works with everyone in Town Hall to schedule their use and that would need to continue with the addition of the studio. The Board moved to the auditorium to review the space. After the tour, Selectman Carr moved to approve the plan in concept as presented by Mr. Brewer. Selectman Dormitzer seconded the motion and the vote was unanimous(4-0). Selectman Carr moved to adjourn the meeting. Selectman Dormitzer seconded the motion and the vote was unanimous(4-0). Meeting adjourned at 9:OOPM. Respectfully submitted, Paul Carlson Chairman Selectmen—8.3.09-JBO 3