TOWN OF KENSINGTON
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
MEETING MINUTES
Amended and approved January 5, 2009
In attendance: Richard Powers, Stefanie Johnstone and Michael Motherway. Called to order at 7:35 pm.
CITIZEN’S FORUM – Stefanie Johnstone expressed great appreciation for the efforts of all during the recent ice and snow storms, particularly the Police Department, Fire Department, Emergency Management and Road Manager. The Board and all residents in attendance applauded heartily.
DEPARTMENT HEADS:
Fire Department –Chief LeBlanc reported that the Fire Department is 100% operational at this time and phone service is working. They are having some problems with the internet connection but hope to have it remedied soon. He said the Department extended 700 to 800 man hours during the ice storm.
Road Manager – David Buxton reported the crew has been out plowing. The roads are in good shape and there were no problems. With regard to the Hilliard Road intersection, he said he checked on the radius and it’s suitable but safe travel. Michael Motherway asked why it hasn’t been restored to its previous configuration and Dave asked to discuss it at the next meeting. The Board agreed.
More than twenty-five residents from Kensington Place were in attendance. The Selectmen acknowledged that today they did receive a letter from developer Bruce Nadeau stating that he would no longer be plowing the development. Residents asked what they needed to do to petition the town to accept their roads. Selectmen explained the procedure, including that it would require a majority of town’s people to vote for it. Given the remaining work to be done, they felt it was doubtful it would pass. The last day for Warrant Articles to be submitted is January 13, 2009. Stefanie Johnstone read a Proposed Order & Permanent Injunction that was received this morning and read excerpts: “In particular, the Defendant must ensure the clearing and removal of snow and ice, as is necessary for the public safety, on all streets and sidewalks located in the subdivision, and other customary winter maintenance practices, such as sanding and/or salting.” Michael Motherway reiterated that they join together and hire an attorney to enforce the developer’s responsibilities including, as per the court order, attempting to obtain a performance bond or letter of credit in the amount of $181,081. Residents expressed concerns regarding both snow and ice. Stefanie Johnstone agreed to call Town Counsel and discuss abatements and town plowing. She added they may need to wait for Mr. Nadeau to be in contempt of the court order and Michael Motherway added that they may need to give him an opportunity to fulfill the court order. A meeting was set up for Wednesday, December 24, 2008 at 11:00 am to discuss further and hopefully reach a resolve. Gregg LeFebvre will be the contact person for the group and Stefanie will call and let him know what Town Counsel advises.
Police Department – Chief Wayne Sheehan explained that they have decided that due to safety concerns, the gas generator will be sold and the proceeds will be used toward a propane generator. He commended the Fire Department for their work during the power outage adding that all worked hard and Peter Kuegel was very helpful.
Recreation Department – Mary Jane Solomon requested information regarding the work being done by volunteers. Michael Motherway explained that they proceed with caution and get contractors who work under their own insurance and donate their services. Also the Local Government Center will offer free training. He felt this should be set up as a policy or guideline.
Key distribution for the Town Park was discussed. Mike DelSesto explained the current set up and asked that anyone getting a key, sign a document that they will be responsible. He agreed to write up an agreement for this purpose and forward to Denise. Michael Motherway suggested that it be put into policy that the gate needs to be closed and locked unless supplies are being brought in or there is an emergency. Michael Motherway will check with Charles Tucker regarding what Exeter does in terms of storing the defibrillators. Mary Jane again asked about the town sanctioned groups being able to waive fees. Denise will look up what was approved last year and forward copies.
Mary Jane explained that they have contracted to purchase $6,000 of equipment for the skate park from O’Briens & Sons but will need to encumber the funds as the items won’t be received until 2009. They have also contracted with Spinosa Construction for two board walks at @2,550 and installation of lockable doors for the equipment area of the Bunker at a cost of $1,050; total $3,600.00. Michael Motherway moved to encumber $6,000 for equipment for the skate park from O’Brien & Sons, seconded by Richard Powers with all in favor. Michael Motherway moved to encumber $3,600 to Spinosa Construction for board walks and doors, seconded by Richard Powers with all in favor.
Town Park – Michael Del Sesto presented an estimate of $25,075.00 from Seacoast Tree Care LLC for cleanup at Sawyer Park due to the ice storm. Denise will forward to Mark Pride.
OLD BUSINESS:
Review of assessors/assessing companies - Betty Willoughby didn’t attend, but relayed the message that two companies had responded.
Employee Handbook status – Stefanie Johnstone reported it was ready to be sent to the Attorney.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Auditor bid review – No other auditors have provided a bid, thus the Selectmen agreed that the town will continue with Vachon, Clukay & Co.
Storm discussion – A letter from staff was reviewed regarding safety concerns. Selectmen will review measures that can be taken to ensure greater safety for staff members.
Grange Hall – Michael Motherway explained he had talked with Arthur Wiggin and it appears it would be less expensive to drain the pipes and turn them on at the library as needed. He will notify the Trustees.
Town Hall – An estimate of $500 per window from Arthur Wiggin
was received for redoing the upstairs windows. There are 10 side windows and
one front window. Richard Powers moved to encumber the funds for Arthur Wiggin
Carpentry Contractor to do the upstairs windows of town hall per the estimate
of $5,500.00, seconded by Michael Motherway with all in favor.
Motherway and Powers voted in favor, Johnstone voted opposed.
Executive Session – RSA 91-A:3, II (a) - Michael Motherway moved to go into Executive Session at 10:25 pm for employee review, seconded by Richard Powers with Johnstone, Motherway and Powers voting in favor. Michael Motherway expressed frustration with the current working relationship with an employee and strategies to improve it were discussed. Michael Motherway moved to end Executive Session at 10:30 pm, seconded by Richard Powers with Johnstone, Motherway and Powers voting in favor.
Approval of Dec. 1, 2008 meeting minutes – Michael Motherway moved to approve the minutes of December 1, 2008 as written, seconded by Richard Powers with all in favor.
Bills were approved and the equalization ratio was signed.
Michael Motherway moved to adjourn at 11:02 pm, seconded by Richard Powers with all in favor.
Respectfully submitted,
Denise Gregson, Administrative Assistant