Minutes of the Board of Selectmen meeting of Tuesday, March 2, 2010. Present were Matthew P. Albanese, Chairman; Eldon F. Moreira, Clerk, Jerry D. Lawrence, Member. Also present was Elizabeth D. Faricy, Administrator. The meeting convened at 5:30 p.m.
Also present at this time was Highway and Vehicle Maintenance Superintendent Leonard Graf.
The Board conducted interviews for the position of Assistant Vehicle Maintenance Superintendent.
Mr. Jeffrey LaRosa, applicant, entered the room at 5:35 p.m. Chairman Albanese asked Mr. LaRosa to state why he applied for the position and what qualifications he has to offer the town. Mr. LaRosa said that he is interested in working for the town as he is a resident. He said that he enjoys working on trucks and has been a mechanic for 23 years starting when he joined the U.S. Army at age 18. Mr. Moreira asked Mr. LaRosa to discuss his previous experience and if those workplaces got into repair work, such as front end alignments and air breaks on trucks versus just changing oil. Mr. LaRosa stated that at JD Byrider, his current place of employment they do everything and that he is used to working on vehicles with higher mileage. He said that he did air breaks when he was in the Army. Mr. Moreira asked Mr. LaRosa if he was
familiar with car computer systems. He said he was. Mr. Moreira asked if he held a CDL. Mr. LaRosa said that he did not but that he would if he were to be appointed to the position. Mr. Lawrence asked if Mr. LaRosa has been involved in volunteering with the Town in any capacity. Mr. LaRosa stated that he coached soccer for a couple of years but nothing else. Mr. Lawrence stated that the Town’s fleet includes a wide range of vehicles including lawnmowers, weed whackers and sidewalk plows in addition to trucks and cars. He asked if Mr. LaRosa felt confident in working on such a variety. He stated that he was confident. Mr. Graf asked about Mr. LaRosa’s experience with certain engines in the Ford line of vehicles.
Discussion continued on Mr. LaRosa’s lack of current certifications. Mr. LaRosa stated that he was confident that he could get the proper certifications of whatever he needed for the position.
Mr. Lawrence asked if Mr. LaRosa had welding experience. Mr. LaRosa said that he did, and that he fixes cars more than replacing the parts. Mr. Moreira asked how long Mr. LaRosa would need before he could start. Mr. LaRosa said that he would need two weeks. Mrs. Faricy asked if Mr. LaRosa picked up a copy of the job description. He said that he did not.
Mr. LaRosa left the room at 5:45 p.m. and Mr. Edward Demolles Jr. entered.
Chairman Albanese asked Mr. Demolles why he applied for the position. Mr. Demolles stated that it is close to home and that he has experience working with public safety vehicles on a professional level in addition to working on trucks and cars. Mr. Moreira asked if Mr. Demolles was familiar with the Ford line of vehicles. He said that he was and that he has experience working on both Ford and GM products. Mr. Moreira asked Mr. Demolles if he had experience working on backhoes and heavy equipment. He said that he was and that he has worked on other towns’ fleets which included this equipment. Mr. Lawrence asked if Mr. Demolles had experience welding. Mr. Demolles said he has plenty of welding and cutting experience and that he has done so previously for the Town of Milton. Mr. Lawrence asked if he would be able to
work on weed whackers, leaf blowers, ambulances, and lawn mowers in addition to the regular Ford fleet. Mr. Demolles said that he had worked on vehicles like that since he was a kid and would be comfortable. Mr. Graf asked if Mr. Demolles had any classroom training or schooling. He said that he did small one-day classes that his employer paid for. Mr. Graf asked if he was familiar with tire pressure sensor systems on the police cruisers. Mr. Demolles said that he has a little and has not worked on the newer ones that often. Chairman Albanese stated that the chosen candidate could have to undergo a physical. Mr. Demolles said that it would not be a problem. Mrs. Faricy asked if he read the job description. Mr. Demolles said that he had. Mrs. Faricy asked about his computer skills. He stated that he was a quick learner and could learn email and the Microsoft Office Suite. Mrs. Faricy asked how soon he would be able to start working for the town. Mr. Demolles said he would need two
weeks.
Mr. Demolles left the room at 5:54 p.m.
Mr. Anthony DiMaggio entered the room at 5:56 p.m.
Chairman Albanese asked Mr. DiMaggio to explain why he applied for the position. Mr. DiMaggio stated that he has years of experience in maintenance and heavy equipment repair, that he is a local resident, and has experience of overseeing a budget. He said he has a CDL, a hoisting license and truck driving experience.
Mr. DiMaggio asked if the position was full time. Chairman Albanese stated that it was and that the individual would be on call for emergency situations.
Mr. Moreira asked if Mr. DiMaggio was familiar with diagnostics and computers in vehicles. Mr. DiMaggio stated that he has experience with that but was not ASE certified. He said that he would be able to obtain that certification fairly easily if necessary. Mr. Moreira asked about Mr. DiMaggio’s knowledge of Ford. Mr. DiMaggio said that he worked for a company that only had Ford vehicles and recognized that the newer models can be a little difficult.
Discussion continued regarding Mr. DiMaggio’s previous employment. Mr. DiMaggio stated that soon after he graduated from Southeastern Regional Technical Vocational High School in 1988 he worked for a truck installation company but came back into mechanic and repair work in 1991. Mr. DiMaggio stated that he was available to start immediately. Mr. Lawrence asked if Mr. DiMaggio was involved with the Town in any organizations. He said that he planned to when his children are older. Mr. Lawrence asked if Mr. DiMaggio would be comfortable working on the wide variety of vehicles and makes and models. Mr. DiMaggio said that he would be. Mr. Lawrence asked if Mr. DiMaggio had any welding experience. Mr. DiMaggio said yes. Mrs. Faricy asked if he was able to pick up a copy of the job description. Mr. DiMaggio said that he
did. Mr. Moreira asked if Mr. DiMaggio had a CDL, and he said that he did. Chairman Albanese stated that the chosen candidate would have to undergo a physical and Mr. DiMaggio stated that that was fine.
Mr. DiMaggio left the room at 6:04 p.m.
Mr. Kevin Herlihy cancelled his appointment and withdrew his application from being considered.
Mr. Robert Turner entered the room at 6:05 p.m.
Chairman Albanese asked Mr. Turner to discuss his reasons for applying for the position. Mr. Turner stated that he has extensive automotive experience, especially with Ford, and feels that he can help the town. Mr. Moreira asked if Mr. Turner was familiar with diagnostic tests and computers in newer vehicles. He said that he was very experienced with Ford software, reprogramming modules, and keys. Mr. Moreira asked if Mr. Turner had experience with trucks and air breaks. Mr. Turner said he was, and although he did not have the proper certification for that he could get it. Mr. Turner also agreed to get a CDL. Mr. Moreira asked about plowing for the Town. Mr. Turner said that it was no problem. Mr. Lawrence asked if Mr. Turner was involved in his hometown. He said that he was the Assistant Basketball Coach for his daughter’s 3rd and 4th grade team. Mr. Lawrence asked if Mr. Turner would be willing to weld. Mr. Turner said that he was and that it was important to limit the number of
parts put into a vehicle. Mr. Moreira asked if Mr. Turner had classroom experience. Mr. Turner stated that he went through many tests all through classrooms and all hands-on. Mr. Graf asked if Mr. Tuner was familiar with injectors and pumps. Mr. Turner stated that he was and that he replaced many fuel injectors, and completed overhauls. Mrs. Faricy asked if Mr. Turner picked up a copy of the job description and if he was familiar with word, excel and emailing. He stated that he did read the job description and that he can type up memos. Chairman Albanese stated that the chosen candidate would have to undergo a physical.
Mr. Turner then discussed his proposition for a four-day work week. Chairman Albanese stated that he had reservations about changing the hours. Mr. Lawrence suggested extending some of the days to help compensate.
Mr. Turner left the room at 6:16 p.m.
At 6:17 p.m. Ms. Nancy Morrison, Town Clerk, entered the room.
Discussion continued regarding the proposed change in schedule. Mr. Lawrence expressed concern over the Assistant Vehicle Maintenance Superintendent not being present during a snow storm and stated that the individual should be expected to be accessible. Mr. Graf stated that Mr. Turner is asking for a change in the work week because he started a business of his own before knowing this job was available and is locked in with an investment. Mr. Lawrence stated that with some stipulations he would be willing to allow the four-day work week. He then suggested voting for Mr. Turner and then choosing a second should he and the Board be unable to reach a conclusion on the schedule.
There was further discussion on the benefits of having someone there after hours when those who utilize Town vehicles are no longer using them throughout the day.
Mr. Moreira MOVED to appoint Mr. Robert Turner to the position of Assistant Vehicle Maintenance Superintendent. Seconded by Mr. Lawrence and so voted unanimously.
The Board agreed to invite Mr. Turner to the next meeting to discuss the terms of his contract. Mr. Lawrence suggested a four and half day work week with one night shift to mimic Town Hall office hours.
Mr. Lawrence MOVED to appoint Mr. Edward Demolles as the second candidate should Mr. Turner decline the position. Seconded by Mr. Moreira and so voted unanimously.
Discussion continued on the proposed change in work schedule. Mr. Lawrence MOVED to allow Mr. Turner to work a four and half day work week, mimicking Town Hall hours, or a full five days at his discretion. Seconded by Mr. Moreira. Albanese, no; Moreira, yes; Lawrence, yes.
Mr. Graf left the room at 6:29 p.m.
At 6:31 p.m. Ms. Nancy Maloney and Mr. Jude Simon, of Bridgewater, entered the room.
Mr. Simon discussed his book, Poetry vs. Political Satire, and how the proceeds will be donated toward Haiti relief funds.
At 6: 35 p.m. Treasurer/Collector John Duggan entered the room.
Mr. Simon continued his discussion stating that Haiti is one of the most corrupt countries in the world, and that a half million people do not have a place to live right now due to the devastating earth quake.
At 6:37 Town Accountant Ann MacNaughton entered the room.
Chairman Albanese read a letter of recognition signed by the Board and presented it to Mr. Simon.
Mr. Simon left the room and Mrs. Sandy Churchill of The Enterprise entered at 6:41 p.m.
Town Accountant Ann MacNaughton presented budget 1350 Accountant to the Board. She stated that the level funded budget has a two percent increase due to the terms of the clerical union contract. Mr. Moreira MOVED to forward budget 1350 Accountant to the Finance Committee. Seconded by Mr. Lawrence and so voted unanimously.
Ms. MacNaughton left the room at 6:44 p.m.
Treasurer/Collector John Duggan present budgets 1450 Treasurer/Collector, 7100 Debt- Principal, 7510 Debt-Interest, and 7520 Short Term Interest to the Board. He stated that a level funded budget, due to the clerical union contractual increases, would result in a reduction of hours for the third clerical position. Mr. Duggan suggested disallowing credit cards for payment in the Town Clerk’s office as they come with a processing fee. Mr. Duggan discussed the status of the Town’s long-term debt. Mr. Duggan stated that the money from the state’s revolving fund is interest free. He also stated that some of the debts will be paid off and the Town will be able to put that money elsewhere in the budget.
Fire Chief Leonard Hunt entered the room at 7:00 p.m.
Mr. Lawrence asked if there are any residents in default on their taxes. Mr. Duggan stated that a Trust that owed over $225,000 to the Town recently paid it off. He said that others have been making payments.
Mr. Lawrence MOVED to forward budgets 1450 Treasurer/Collector, 7100 Debt- Principal, 7510 Debt-Interest, and 7520 Short Term Interest to the Finance Committee. Seconded by Mr. Moreira and so voted unanimously.
Mr. Duggan left the room at 7:04 p.m.
Fire Chief Leonard Hunt presented budget 2200 Fire Department to the Board. Chief Hunt stated that the bottom line figure is identical to last year’s budget, and that the budget presented this way does fund the Firefighter’s contract. He stated that the overtime line item decreased as they were able to hire another firefighter.
Mr. Moreira MOVED to forward Budget 2200 Fire Department to the Finance Committee. Seconded by Mr. Lawrence and so voted unanimously.
At 7:08 p.m. Chief Hunt left the room.
Mrs. Faricy then presented budgets 1750 Planning Board, 1760 Board of Appeals, 1850 Rent Control Board, 1920 ADA Compliance Committee, 1945 Municipal Building Needs Committee, and 2440 Sealer of Weights and Measures. She presented level funded budgets with a five percent decrease for each department.
Mr. Moreira MOVED to forward budget 1750 Planning Board to the Finance Committee. Seconded by Mr. Lawrence and so voted unanimously.
Mr. Lawrence MOVED to forward budget 1760 Board of Appeals to the Finance Committee.
Seconded by Mr. Moreira and so voted unanimously.
Mr. Moreira MOVED to forward budgets 1850 Rent Control Board, 1920 ADA Compliance Committee, 1945 Municipal Building Needs Committee, and 2440 Sealer of Weights and Measures. Seconded by Mr. Lawrence and so voted unanimously.
The Board discussed the signing of the United Drive Road layout maps. Mrs. Faricy stated that the Board did sign the maps and that they will go to the Planning Board for their signing and then to the Town Clerk.
Mr. Lawrence MOVED to approve the minutes of February 2, 2010. Seconded by Mr. Moreira and so voted unanimously.
Mr. Moreira MOVED to accept for review the minutes of February 16, 2010. Seconded by Mr. Lawrence and so voted unanimously.
There were no bills for the Board to approve.
The Board discussed the status of the hold on the liquor license of John and Allison Enterprises dba Town Line General Store and that the buyer will be filing paperwork for a license transfer in the next week.
The Board then discussed the concept of a county-wide drug court as an alternative to jail. Chairman Albanese stated that in an effort to reduce youth opiate addiction, the drug courts would address non-violent drug users and sent them to treatment rather than prison where they would have more extensive supervision.
Mr. Moreira then discussed a recent article in The Enterprise regarding Lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray and his calling for a change in the state funding formula for schools. Mr. Moreira MOVED to send Governor Murray a letter commending him for his efforts. Seconded by Mr. Lawrence and so voted unanimously.
During the public comment period the Board discussed two student clubs and their organizing of a fundraiser at Chili Head BBQ on a night when the restaurant is not permitted to hold entertainment. Mr. Lawrence MOVED to modify the Entertainment License to include Mondays and Tuesdays notwithstanding any requirements of a public hearing. Seconded by Mr. Moreira and so voted unanimously.
Mr. Lawrence suggested that the Board put together a booklet listing the mission statements and duties of all the boards and committees within the Town in order to better inform the residents. Mr. Lawrence MOVED to start the process with the staff to put together such a booklet. Seconded by Mr. Moreira and so voted unanimously.
The Administrator gave her report. She presented to the Board a packet compiled by Forestry and Parks Superintendent Christopher Iannitelli regarding establishing an Agricultural Commission. Mrs. Faricy stated that the establishment of this commission is part of the preservation restriction placed on the Anderson Farm. She said that the commission would be charged with formulating a right-to-farm by-law among other duties. Mrs. Faricy stated that there are already an enthusiastic group of citizens willing to participate in this capacity.
At 7:25 p.m. Police Chief Donald Clark entered the room.
Mr. Lawrence commended Mr. Iannitelli for his many efforts in preserving the Town.
Mrs. Faricy reported to the Board regarding the status of the Gift of Land from a resident. She said that the Board would need to vote to accept the land and that the Conservation Commission is doing the same at their meeting.
Mr. Moreira MOVED to accept the gift by way of the Board’s signatures. Seconded by Mr. Lawrence and so voted unanimously.
Mrs. Faricy stated that Mr. James Lang expressed interest in serving on the Rent Control Board. Mr. Lawrence MOVED to appoint Mr. Lang to the Rent Control Board effective immediately. Seconded by Mr. Moreira and so voted unanimously.
Mrs. Faricy then updated the Board regarding reviving the Capital Budget Committee as there are a number of departments asking for capital projects. Chairman Albanese MOVED to appoint Selectmen Lawrence to serve as a member of the Capital Budget Committee as the Board’s representative. Seconded by Mr. Moreira and so voted unanimously.
Mrs. Faricy presented to the Board an email from State Senator Brian Joyce regarding the Governor’s budget and that it is likely that the Town will not receive as much money as the Governor had allocated.
Police Chief Donald Clark presented budget 2100 Police Department. He stated that some of the longer tenured employees, including clerical, have left or will leave this fiscal year, which also lowers the longevity line item. Chief Clark said that the salary increases were contractual.
Mr. Moreira MOVED to forward budget 2100 Police Department to the Finance Committee Seconded by Mr. Lawrence and so voted unanimously.
Chief Clark presented budget 2920 Animal Control. He stated that he was able to cut a little more than five percent. Mr. Lawrence MOVED to forward budget 2920 to the Finance Committee. Seconded by Mr. Moreira and so voted unanimously.
At 7:39 p.m. Chief Clark, Ms. Nancy Maloney, Town Clerk Nancy Morrison and Mrs. Churchill left the room.
At this time the Board MOVED into Executive Session pursuant to MGL Chapter 39, Section 23 B exception 3, to discuss strategy with respect to collective bargaining or litigation if an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the government’s bargaining or litigating position. Also, to conduct strategy sessions in preparation for negotiations with non-union personnel, to actually conduct collective bargaining contract negotiations with non-union personnel. Also, to consider the purchase, exchange, taking, lease or value of real property if such discussion may have a detrimental effect on the negotiating position of the governmental body. Open session will reconvene. Roll Call vote showed: Albanese, yes; Moreira, yes; Lawrence, yes.
Open session reconvened at 8:05 p.m. Present at this time were Mrs. Beth Smith, Director of the Public Library and Mr. Dave Church, Library Trustee.
Mrs. Smith and Mr. Church presented their budget 6100 Library. Mrs. Smith discussed the state requirements the library must meet in order to maintain certification. She stated that the SAILS program is facing budget cuts but that there will not be any impact on the local libraries.
Mr. Lawrence MOVED to forward budget 6100 Library to the Finance Committee. Seconded by Mr. Moreira and so voted unanimously.
The meeting adjourned at 8:17 p.m.
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