Selectboard Meeting Minutes 24 Sept 2018

Town of Brookfield

Selectboard Meeting

September 24, 2018 at 6:30 P.M.

Town Clerk’s Office

Draft Minutes

 

Present: John Benson (Chair), Cory Haggett, Jeff Kimmel, Ray Peck (Road Crew Foreman), Sam Dilcer, Chuck Barnum, Linda Kelly

 

1. Call to Order – 6:34 p.m.

 

2. Adjustments to Agenda – None

 

3. Public Comment:
4. Sam Dilcer: Mr. Dilcer sought clarification regarding the status of a potentially discontinued road that at one point traversed his property. The road was once a continuation of Old Cross Road that continued westward through Mr. Dilcer’s property. He reported that a neighbor had recently built a shed in that area, which may end up being associated with Mr. Dilcer’s property. After reviewing survey material presented by him, the Board suggested that Mr. Dilcer contact the Town Clerk and research records at the Town Offices to see if that could help determine the status of the former road.
5. Chuck Barnum: Mr. Barnum (Town E911 Coordinator) raised several issues he’s encountered while working with E911. He reported that, when reviewing new access permits, he ends up notifying (by mail) 5 or so emergency and municipal entities, which probably could be streamlined. Mr. Barnum noted that he’s encountered a discrepancy in the name of “Rabbit Trak” Road, so he will contact the relevant property owners regarding their preferences for the name. He also asked that the Road Crew verify that private drives and similar shorter roads in Town have proper E911 signage.

 

4. New Business:

 

1. Village Center Designation: Linda Kelly reported that Pond Village had been in the VCD program, but the designation had lapsed several years ago. Ms. Kelly went on to describe the economic incentives, including potential grant opportunities that would be potentially available if Pond Village was back in the program. The Selectboard would be responsible for submitting an application. A meeting of interested parties is scheduled for September 26, which Mr. Haggett will attend on behalf of the Board.

 

1. Highway: Mr. Peck reported on several activities and plans:

 

• The Road Crew has been working with the state Agency of Transportation regarding improving the intersection of VT Route 14 and McKeage Road. AoT would like to remove the “island” at the intersection and pave the area so that it is more like a traditional turnout.
• The Bear Hill project (culvert repair/replacement and drainage improvements) is still ongoing, including discussions with state officials. The current plan includes installation of a box culvert and remedial drainage measures.
• Peck reported that a similar drainage problem exists at the north end of Pond Village, with the need to replace an existing culvert and another potential use of a box culvert.
• Ditching projects have been conducted on Howe and Northfield Roads, and completed on Eagle Peak Road.
• Pike Construction did complete repair work on the Brookfield portion of Chelsea Mountain Road.
• Current and pending equipment repairs include: Mr. Peck’s truck has an oil leak, so it will be sent to Freightliner for repairs, which may still be covered by warranty; the crusher is awaiting replacement parts (coming from South Carolina), which will delay some ditching work; Winter tires and chains are being ordered, and Mr. Peck is soliciting prices.
• Peck mentioned an issue had arisen regarding Town trucks being used to retrieve school buses that have gone off the roads during Winter and mud season. The Board (and Mr. Peck) will see what VLCT and the Orange Southwest Supervisory District suggest is appropriate, including potential liability/insurance concerns.
• On motion of Mr. Benson, second Mr. Haggett: 3-0-0, the Board went into Executive Session at 7:23 p.m. for an annual personnel review. The Board returned from the session at 7:34 p.m.

 

1. Public Assemblage Permit – Brookfield Community Partnership:: Mr. Kimmel made a motion to approve the permit for a RUHS/Cuxhaven Germany Exchange potluck on October 5 at the Old Town Hall as written, Mr. Haggett second: 3-0-0.

 

1. Town Attorney: Mr. Kimmel reported that he had received a recommendation regarding a potential candidate to act as Broofkeild’s Town Attorney; the Board will follow up with the person.

 

1. Hippo Park – Smoking Ban: the Board discussed the process for imposing such a ban, along with the limitations on Town authority in the area of the Floating Bridge. Administrative Assistant Kasey Peterson had provided a couple examples of municipal regulations, which the Board will consult in drafting a proposal covering Hippo Park.

 

5. Old Business:

 

1. Approve Minutes of September 10, 2018 Selectboard Meeting: deferred

 

1. Special Meeting – Proposed Drug and Alcohol Policy: the Board will check if October 27, 9:00 a.m. will work for potential participants.

 

6. Payroll/AP Warrants: Mr. Haggett made a motion to pay the warrants totaling $46,109.49 with large bills to include: R.E. Tucker (Gravel): $16,422.00 and $11,348.40; Econo Signs (Road Signs): $4,583.44; Mr. Benson second: 3-0-0.

 

7. Other Proper Business:

 

• Haggett reported that the Mountain Alliance Solid Waste District is setting up meetings, which at least one member of the Brookfield Selectboard should attend.
• Haggett raised the ongoing trash issue on Ridge Road. Apparently the state is not going to follow up with the property owner(s), so the Board and Town Health Officer will need to pursue further legal action.

 

8.       Mr. Kimmel made a motion to adjourn at 8:11 p.m., Mr. Haggett second: 3-0-0.