Board of Selectmen Minutes 9/24/2007
At the meeting of the Randolph Board of Selectmen held Monday, September 24, 2007, the following were present: Chairman Paul Connors, Vice Chairman Richard Wells, William Alexopoulos, James Burgess and Maureen Kenney, Brian Howard. Meeting opened at 7:06 pm.
Ms. Kenney said the opening prayer and Mr. Wells lead the Pledge of Allegiance. Moment of silence held for Kenneth Prostack, Conservation Commission and Town Meeting member.
(A) Community Speaks
Gerald Kaplan spoke of being unable to make it to his medical appointments since he is being followed wherever he goes; noise still present at his house and there is money still missing from his account.
Judy Gangel spoke of a golf tournament that is being held as a fundraiser to assist the athletic programs. It will be held on October 8th, 2007, at River Bend Golf Course. The fee is $125/golfer and starts at 8:30 am.
Mr. Sarofeen is concern about residents’ especially kids’ safety. He would like more lights in town; especially more red and yellow lights. He would like the Board to look into it; he has already contacted the State.
(B) Correspondence
Mr. Wells read the letters
Director of Elder Affairs, Rena Baker, notified the Board that the Town received grants from South Shore Elder Services. One grant is for $6000.00 and will go to the Bilingual Friendly Visitor Program and the second is for $3400.00 towards the Medical Access Transportation Program. They are waiting to hear on a third grant application.
Keegan Werlin Attorney for Algonquin Gas Company, notified the Board that they will hold an informational hearing on Wednesday, October 3, 2007, from 6-8 pm, at the Kennedy Elementary School (cafeteria) located at 339 Plymouth Street.
Minimum manning for Fire Dept. Bill has gone to the House. Massachusetts Municipal Association is opposing this bill. Mr. Burgess asked that members send letters along to the various Representatives and Senator in agreement with the MMA position. Second by Mr. Wells, no discussion voted 5-0 to send a letter supporting MMA. If the proposed bill passes it will cost cities and towns money.
Letter received from Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Raffelson, of 16 Green Street, regarding the white line conversion near the Seth Mann House. They are opposed to this since she was in an accident in that area and they are concerned for themselves and all residents of the Town. Mr. Connors spoke to Mr. Zecchini of the DPW, he supposedly went out to investigate the situation, Mr. Connors is awaiting letter in response.
Zoning Board of Appeals – Mr. Connors asked if Mrs. Fahey wanted to speak. Chairman Nancy Fahey informed everyone of the hearing they are holding hearing on 40B on Oct. 3rd at 7:00 at the Senior Center. Roseland’s 279 units are not included in the number of 40B units the Town is required to have. Mrs. Fahey will check with the Planning Board this evening to find out if the development has already gone to the Planning Board. Not sure if the meeting will be televised they have asked Randolph Cable to see if they have volunteers. Ms. Duddy said that she will be there and the meeting will be taped, but not live.
Mr. Burgess moved to accept the minutes from Aug. 6, 2007, second by Mr. Wells; Held on a vote until after the hearing on Stacy’s Pita Chips to give members the opportunity for review. Voted 5-0 to accept.
(C) Hearing for Stacy’s Pita Chips- 663 North Main Street, Alisa M. Dimitroff and Dean Malley, Director of Operations for Stacy’s present for Stacy’s Pita Chips, they are requesting a license for an indoor, aboveground, 12,500 gallon storage tank to hold vegetable oil. Notice has been published, everyone has been notified and has responded. The check has been received. Stacy’s was purchased by Frito Lay back in January 2006. The Applicant was bringing their oil into the plant in 275 gallon cardboard totes; which caused spills and handling problems. Frito lay suggested they use the tank instead. Mr. Connors asked if anyone wanted to speak in favor or opposed and raise questions. Mrs. Gangel asked if the grease trap facilities would be increased;
currently they have a 4000 gallon grease trap this is pumped every 45-60 days. The Applicant feels this will be an improvement and less spills and waste water contamination since the waste product will be decreased with less going down the drain. Mr. Sarofeen, asked how the Fire Chief felt regarding safety issues with so much more oil. The Board received a letter dated May 25, 2007, from Capt. James Hurley in approval of the storage tank. The Board also received a letter dated August 30, 2007, from Lt. Richard Crowley of the Police Department stating no objections to the storage tank. Chairman Connors opened the discussion to members. Mr. Burgess stated that everything is here regarding the application, knows the area and feels that it doesn’t pose any issues to the water supply if there was a spill. The Applicant has been a good corporate neighbor as well. Mr. Wells motioned to accept the application, second by Mr. Alexopoulos; voted 5-0 in favor.
Roll Call Vote, Ms. Kenney, Mr. Burgess, Mr. Connors, Mr. Alexopoulos and Mr. Wells all yeas.
Position of Youth Coordinator- Mr. Connors moved to amend the vote of the Board of Selectmen at the September 10, 2007, Selectmen’s Meeting regarding Paul Maloof as follows: to appoint Paul Maloof Youth Coordinator at its existing grade and step (Grade 15 Step 8) as established for such position, to be paid out of the salary line item voted for the Youth Department (department number 542) at the Annual Town Meeting, effective back to the date that he started in the position, which was the start of business, September 11, 2007, second by Mr. Burgess. Sum of line item is $22,000, once expended it will be revisited at the Special Town Meeting. Voted 2-1-2, with Mr. Burgess in opposition, and Mr. Wells and Ms. Kenney in abstention.
(D)Arthur Goldstein- Finance Committee (Fincom) didn’t meet over the summer, so he wanted to update the Board. They have been working on the retired teacher’s health insurance. Mr. Connors stated the Board has been meeting with the teachers; there is another meeting this week. Mr. Carroll indicated that the meetings have included MTA, current teachers and retired teachers. Mr. Goldstein also asked about the Finance Director position, stating that he emailed personnel asking for pay scales and job description and Mr. Lane responded that he has nothing on this position. Mr. Connors stated that they are in the process of creating the permanent position; this is only an interim position, therefore there is no description. He also noted that the Board of Recreation has an interim
facilities manger and Town Meeting approved to not to fund this position for FY2008.
Mr. Goldstein asked who is the liaison between the Board and Fincom, Mr. Connors indicated Mr. Alexopoulos. He asked if there was any idea when the special Town Meeting will be. Mr. Howard spoke to Town Counsel and he recommended to open the warrant this evening and leave it open for a week. December 10th is when Counsel hopes to see it scheduled; earliest would be to scale back a week, but he hopes not until 10th.
The Finance Committee currently has 7 possibly 6 members; they are looking for at least 2 members.
(E)Boston Now Newspaper Boxes- Edward Daly present. Application and fees all in hand. Boston Now would like to setup newspaper boxes around town in the locations provided. Did not have to be advertised. They cut the location list down to 6 places in Town. This has been a long process for the paper. They are willing to work with the Town on any concerns. Kevin Reilly, South Main Street, has property next to one of box locations. He feels litter is a big problem and he was constantly picking the papers up. Nancy Fahey, Russ St., papers also come down from the box at the end of the street and into her yard and are everywhere. Mr. Connors informed the public this is why the Board created the process to control the boxes and the clutter. Mr. Daly stated that if there was a
problem with a box creating litter, the town could contact Boston Now and they would take care of the situation. Mr. Burgess asked about the driver delivering the paper and his responsibilities. Mr. Daly replied that the driver is only responsible for removing old papers and placing in the new paper. He does no maintenance in the radius surrounding the box. One problem is if they allow this company a location, they have to be able to allow other boxes locations as well. Discussion was held about having the paper inside businesses. They are working towards this goal. Mrs. Gangel asked if the Board could require paper recycle containers to be placed next to the boxes. Boston Now could place a holder inside Town Hall to make it easier to display/store.
Members expressed concern over controlling the litter created by these boxes. Mr. Burgess was not opposed to having it at the Post Office. Mr. Burgess moved to grant the permit for one box on Thomas Patton Drive, in a location to be picked by Mr. Howard, one box to be placed inside the Town Hall and for a letter to be drafted to Boston Now in support of having the papers inside stores (private property). Second by Mr. Wells; voted 3-2, with Mr. Wells, Mr. Burgess and Mr. Connors in favor and Ms. Kenney and Mr. Alexopoulos in opposition.
(F)a. Liaisons-
Mr. Burgess reminded the members they were given two potential zoning changes, one is a proposed 40R, to become the Great Pond Overlay District; wording came from the State’s website and was fixed to suit Randolph. The other is a multi family zone dealing with senior housing. Some sections of this article are missing; he is waiting for the Building Commissioner to fill some things in. Member’s questions and comments can be directed to the Executive Secretary. Mr. Burgess informed the Board that he is just presenting these proposals he is not necessarily supporting them. He does feel this is forward thinking for Randolph and would give the Town some control over these issues.
Ms. Kenney informed everyone that the State has sanctioned the Police Academy’s desire to rent the Tower Hill School; they will be renovating the property with their money.
Mr. Alexopoulos stated that the Board received a letter from the Fire Dept. with respect to collective bargaining, suggesting dates they are available. Mr. Connors spoke to the Police Bargaining units asking for dates as for well.
Mr. Connors will be asking for executive session following this meeting to discuss collective bargaining.
(B) Correspondence Continued-
Letter received from the Alcohol Beverage Control Commission regarding a training seminar (“Alcohol 101”) on Thursday, October 18th from 6- 8 pm at the State Lottery Headquarters in Braintree.
Walpole Board of Selectmen wanted to thank those communities who responded to their letter regarding a moratorium on MGL 40B. They also informed the Board of the newly created Municipal Coalition for Affordable Housing (MCAH).
Fire Department notified the Board that Anthony M. Phinney and Cheri E. Harte have been offered a conditional offer of employment as Fire Fighter/EMT. Provided they successfully complete the hiring process, they are expected to begin employment on or about October 14th. These appointments will bring the Department to 50 members.
Massachusetts Municipal Association sent a letter in opposition to the stance of the National Anti-Defamation League regarding the recognition of a genocide against the Armenian people in 1915.
Declaration received by the Mass. Municipal Association regarding the National Anti-Defamation League and the Armenian Genocide- Mr. Wells moved to sign on to the declaration, second by Mr. Burgess; voted 5-0 to sign in support of the Mass. Municipal Association.
Request by Wong’s Kitchen, 1179 North Main Street, for a permit to open a restaurant. Mr. Howard recommends 7:30 pm on October 29th. Underground Utilities will be brought to the Oct. 15th meeting. Mr. Wells moved to grant a hearing, second by Mr. Alexopoulos; voted 5-0.
Danielle Rizzotto is interested in working at the election polls, Mr. Wells moved to appoint Danielle Rizzotto as a poll worker, second by Mr. Alexopoulos; voted 5-0. Appointment referred to the Clerk’s office.
Mr. Wells moved to grant permission to Randolph Youth Soccer to hold a can drive October 6 & 7th at 5 locations in town, second by Mr. Alexopoulos; voted 5-0.
A request for a special permit from Randolph Famous Pizza, 408 Center Street. Mr. Howard recommends October 29th at 8pm, Mr. Wells moved to grant a hearing, second by Mr. Alexopoulos; voted 5-0.
Copy of a letter received from the Town Clerk indicating that Rosalen Vineberg has submitted enough signatures for her petition requesting a Randolph Government Study proposal to be at the next Town Meeting.
Petition submitted by Benjamin Goff to amend the General Bylaws to stop use of All- Terrain Vehicles and Off-Road Dirt Bikes on private property within the Town of Randolph.
(F)b. Report of the Executive Secretary
Special Town Meeting- Town Counsel is recommending that the warrant be opened by October 15th in order to allow for Town Meeting to be held 60 Days after the closing. Mr. Howard will check with the Schools for availability, no problems with the moderator as far as dates are concerned. Possible dates would be December 10th, 11th, 17th or 18th. The Town is currently balanced and would be able to proceed forward. Mr. Howard will check with Richard Brown and Arthur Goldstein regarding setting the tax rate. Town Counsel was just looking for the warrant to be opened tonight, not necessarily opened and closed.
Mr. Burgess moved to open the Special Town Meeting Warrant on October 2nd and to close it at 4 pm on October 12th, second by Mr. Wells; voted 5-0. The number of days of the Town Meeting will depend on the number of requests.
Town Planner- Master Plan Implementation Committee and Planning Board, as well as Selectmen, were given the resumes. Mr. Howard would like to move the process forward. The Personnel Office was open until 7:30 pm this evening to allow Planning Board and Master Plan members time to look at the resumes. Mr. Connors would like the members to rank the applicants 1-4 and invite all 4 for interviews. Mr. Burgess would like to interview all 4. Personnel will verify resumes once the number of interviews has been determined. Master Plan Implementation Committee, Planning Board, Community Preservation Committee, Board of Selectmen and Finance Committee, will each have a member on the five member subcommittee to pick candidates for interviews for Town Planner. If it is unanimous who the top candidate is, Mr. Connors
would like to have just one person come back for an interview; if necessary, no more than two. Mr. Burgess moved to have a member from MPIC, the Finance Office, Community Preservation Committee, Planning Board and Board of Selectmen to form a subcommittee to review the applications for Town Planner and report back to the Board of Selectmen, second by Mr. Wells; voted 5-0 to appoint the subcommittee.
No meeting on October 1st, there will be meetings on October 15th and the 29th. There will be a meeting November 26th, there may also be a meeting on the 12th or the 19th. Most likely the meeting will be the 19th since the Town Offices may be closed on the 12th in observance of Veteran’s Day.
(G) New Business-
Mr. Burgess received a letter from Engineering regarding a changing of an address. He questioned whether this is a legal duplex. Issue went to the ZBA and was approved to be a duplex about a year ago.
Letter received from 65 Fowler St., regarding damage done to their house. The issue went to the insurance company and they denied it. The owners are appealing. To be referred to Town Counsel on how to proceed in this case.
Mr. Burgess asked about lots on Canton Street; they are drilling wells, and the Town received a letter indicating that the ground water appears to be contaminated. Mr. Howard and Mr. Connors spoke to Health Agent, John McVeigh. The Board of Health has concerns that the well could contaminate the drinking water for that house. He did make it clear that there is no contamination. The owners wanted the well to use for potable water in the interim of being connected to the town water. After connection to town water/sewer, the well will be used for irrigation. The owners will apply for a well permit.
Letter received from MEMA regarding a Citizens’ Corp Equipment Program. There are grants available and he would like to tie the Auxiliary Police and School Crossing Guards together in order to get funding for jackets and other equipment. Mr. Howard said that the office would work on tying the two groups together.
Mr. Burgess moved to send a letter to Congressmen Lynch in support of funding for the Community Funding Block Grants, second by Mr. Wells; voted 5-0.
Mr. Burgess moved to send a letter to Congressmen Lynch, and Senators Kennedy and Kerry, in support of maintaining transportation for disabled kids through Medicaid reimbursements to the states. On the federal level, the Administration is looking to under fund this program. Second by Ms. Kenney; voted 5-0.
Mr. Wells wanted to thank the DPW for all their work in putting up the signs. Still need handicapped sign in front of the Randolph Housing Authority.
Mr. Connors spoke to Lt. Hamelburg regarding bargaining with the Superior Officers Unit.
Chair has concerns after reading the Annual Town Reports regarding boards, committees and commissions and their attendance reports. If you’re sick you’re absent, no excuses other than a family death. Only present or absent. Mr. Connors moved that there be no other options, other than a death, for an absence, second by Mr. Burgess. Have given leave of absence, he would like to allow for those situations. Mr. Howard noted the reason for absence at the bottom of the page for Town Meeting Members, but the reason was not reflected in the attendance record. Mr. Alexopoulos was concerned with the times when someone is out due to long-term illnesses or military leave. He would like those undergoing treatments to be allowed excused absences. A letter written to the Board of
Selectmen indicating that the individual may be absent along with a letter from the doctor would be considered an excused absence. Voted 5-0 in favor.
Letter from Town of Canton, letting Randolph Residents know that on Wednesday, October 3rd, at the Canton Town Hall, there will a meeting regarding the impacts the proposed Westwood Station and the traffic it generates will have on the surrounding communities. Will impact Canton Street in Randolph. Also will be widening and resurfacing the bridge on 128. PJC asked that BH give to MC. Perhaps he can go.
Table Item- Edmund Medeiros’ request to become a constable; there is one applicant and one opening. Mr. Alexopoulos moved to accept, second by Mr. Burgess; voted 5-0 in favor of Mr. Medeiros.
Mr. Connors allowed Mrs. Judith Gangel to read a request. Mr. Connors thanked her and will take her request under advisement.
Will go into executive session voted 5-0, roll call vote, Mr. Connors, Mr. Wells, Mr. Burgess, Mr. Alexopoulos and Ms. Kenney all yeas.
(H) Annual Appointments:
Board wants to confirm that Linda Gautreau was appointed to another position on the Local Education Fund Board.
Mr. Alexopoulos moved to appoint Robert Schoepplein to the Conservation Commission, second by Mr. Burgess; voted 5-0.
Mr. Alexopoulos moved to appoint Christopher Hart to the Disabilities Commission, second by Mr. Burgess; voted 5-0.
Mr. Burgess moved to appoint Marshall Epstein to the Disabilities Commission, second by Mr. Alexopoulos; voted 5-0.
The Youth Commission was held by Mr. Burgess and Mr. Wells. Mr. Wells stated that the Board voted not to reappoint this commission; this should be taken off the list. Need to go to Town Meeting to officially abolish.
Mr. Burgess moved to reappoint Nancy Fahey to the Zoning Board of Appeals, second by Mr. Wells; voted 5-0.
Mr. Burgess asked how many people currently sitting on the Business and Industrial Commission. Mr. Howard will check and get back to him; Mr. Burgess thinks it may better serve the town as a 5 member board instead of 15.
Motion to adjourn by Mr. Connors at 9:39 pm, voted 5-0 to adjourn.
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Clerk of the Board
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