MINUTES OF BOARD OF SELECTMEN
August 15, 2016
Present: Julia Pemberton; Leon Karvelis; Michael Thompson
Also present: Members of the Conservation Commission; Trail tenders; members of the public; videographer.
- The First Selectman called the meeting to order at 7:31 p.m.
- Approval of Minutes
On the motion of L. Karvelis and the second of M. Thompson, the motion to approve the Minutes was approved unanimously.
- Volunteer Trail Tenders: discussion of roles, responsibilities & issues associated with trail maintenance
Stuart Green and Bob Cieri spoke of the need for possible insurance coverage for the 55-60 volunteer trail tenders. Discussion of potential coverages, current town liability coverage and related issues ensued. Buzz Merritt noted that the Land Trust Alliance has a master insurance policy and in keeping with national and state policy, he supports the trail tenders’ request.
Responsibilities of the trail tenders were discussed. The use of machinery and types of clearing were discussed. Training for use of specific equipment will be reviewed. A line item will be considered in the town budget for professional contractors to assist trail tenders when needed.
M. Thompson questioned whether there have been any incidents precipitating the request for volunteer insurance coverage. Mr. Cieri and Mr. Green stated that there have not been any accident or injury issues and noted that the volunteers are very safety conscious.
The Board will seek clarification from and review policies with town counsel and appropriate insurance professionals. J. Pemberton will review information from other towns and states regarding the availability and cost of volunteer coverage plansa.
a. Appointments: re-appointment of Richard Emerson to Board of Ethics
On the motion of L. Karvelis and the second of M. Thompson, the Board voted unanimously to reappoint Richard Emerson to the Board of Ethics.
b. Bridge project updates: Rt. 53 & Stepney Road
J. Pemberton reviewed the 8/9/16 status meeting re: Route 53 bridge. At this time it is scheduled to be open for the commencement of school.
Re: Stepney bridge, guardrails have not been installed, however, the projected delay in completion will not interfere with school transportation.
c. Road restoration & pavement preservation update
The four-year plan was reviewed. Planned work for this fiscal year was discussed. Truck vibration issues on Schoolhouse Road will be addressed in spring, 2017.
- Public Comment
Re: trail tenders, John Board suggested a formal relationship between the trail tenders and the Board of Selectmen or the trail tenders and the Conservation Commission.
- Board member comment
L. Karvelis questioned the timing and location of ongoing Eversource pole replacement. J. Pemberton noted that the scheduling was done far in advance.
J.Pemberton reported on plans for a 15th anniversary 9/11 ceremony on the Town Green.
M. Thompson stated that an ad hoc committee consisting of members of the Board of Education and Board of Finance will be meeting for the first time on 8/16/16 to discuss its agenda for the coming months and begin the process of increasing communication between the boards in preparation for the upcoming budget season. J. Pemberton discussed the role the Board of Selectmen can play in long-range planning, particularly regarding school building utilization.
Re: anticipated Gilbert & Bennett lien priority decision, the Judge has been granted a further extension through August 18 to file his decision.
- ADJOURNMENT
On the motion of L. Karvelis and the second of M. Thompson, the Selectmen voted unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 8:42 p.m.
Submitted by:
Kristi C. Reilly