SELECTMEN’S MEETING ~ MAY 17, 2007
Open: 6:30 P.M.
Present: Selectmen: Albert John Franz, Chairman; John A. Cote, Vice Chairman; David A. Conkey
Treasurer: Brian A. Howe
Secretary: Linda M. Landry
Road Agent: George C. Conkey, II
Guests: David Morrill
Clarence Poitras
Colleen Joiet
Jeremy Vittum
Minutes of May 3, 2007 Selectmen’s Meeting: The Minutes of the May 3, 2007 Selectmen’s Meeting were reviewed by the Selectmen. Motion: To approve the Minutes of the May 3, 2007 Selectmen’s Meeting as presented – by Selectman Franz, Seconded by Selectman Cote – Approved (unanimously)
Checks Signed
Road Agent’s Report: The Road Agent reported that all the dirt roads have been “york” raked and the paved roads have been swept. 32 loads of gravel have been stock piled at the town yard, for summer road projects.
The Road Agent reported that he had reviewed the biennial bridge inspection report for eight municipally-owned bridges in town. This report contains suggestions and recommendations from the State of New Hampshire. In order to be legal and enforceable, weight signs and advisory width signs need to be located at each end of the bridge, the Road Agent has corrected all signage deficiencies as recommended in the report.
The ABS valve in Truck #1 “blew” and was repaired/replaced.
The Road Agent has been reviewing Chevrolet/GMC products; one quotation has been received on a truck comparable in size to Truck #2.
Intents to Cut: The following Intents to Cut were reviewed and signed by the Selectmen for:
Lot #3-310, 3-310.1; Van E. Hertel, Sr., owners of record; Logger: Garland Lumber; Access Road: Bickford Woods Road
Lot #8-394.2; David and Martha Morrill, owner of record; Logger: David Morrill; Access Road: NH Route 118
Lot #16-916; Stanley W. Jackson, Vintage Lands, owner of record; Logger: Jeremy Vittum; Access Road: Province Road (bridge bond required)
Building Permits: Application received from Keith Smith; Lot #19-963.32; 2357 NH Route 118. The Permit Officer will visit the site and verify “setbacks”
Public In-Put: 7:00 P.M.
Mascoma Health Initiative Brochures: The Selectmen reviewed the brochures provided by the Mascoma Health Initiative. These brochures contain information regarding health issues pertinent to the residents of Dorchester. It was decided that the brochures would be placed on the Town Clerk’s desk so that residents of Dorchester can pick one up when they come to pay their taxes, or register their vehicles or dogs.
Workshops: Chairman Franz shared a list of workshops sponsored by the Local Government Center. At least one of the Selectmen will be attending each of the following workshops; “Junkyards” and “Zoning and Government”.
Mileage: The Selectmen discussed the current mileage rate paid by the town, of $0.485/mile. If gas prices continue to escalate, there may be a need to increase the rate.
Jeremy Vittum/Vintage Lands: Mr. Vittum is the logger for Lot # 16-916, Vintage Lands/Stanley Jackson, owner of record. The Selectmen signed an Intent to Cut for Mr. Jackson’s property, located on Province Road. The town has required that bridges be bonded against damage done by heavily loaded log trucks. In the past, both bridges on Province Road were required to be bonded, but since bridge #156/053 was destroyed during the June flooding; only one bridge remains. Mr. Vittum has
harvested timber from this lot, during the past year and transported it out by way of Groton, alleviating the need to use Dorchester’s bridges.
Mr. Vittum appeared before the Board to request a reduction in the bond amount as he would be bonding one bridge not two. The Selectmen agreed to accept a bond in the amount of $60,000 on the bridge located just after Dorchester Sand and Stone.
Public In-put Concluded ~ 7:45 P.M.
Replacement of Truck #2: The Selectmen reviewed a quotation for a Chevrolet/GMC truck from Dobles Chevrolet. A discussion followed as to which type of body the Road Agent wanted on the truck, a dump body or a flatbed. Prices for both types of bodies will be obtained from both E. W. Sleeper and Howard P. Fairfield. The Road Agent will also be consulted regarding which body style he prefers.
Transfer Station: The Selectmen discussed where the recycling center (compactor) should be located. The Town has recently acquired several parcels of land through tax deed that could serve as a transfer station. The dimensions of these parcels will be reviewed by Selectman Conkey to see which one of these parcels would comply with State regulations. Selectman Conkey will report back to the Board at a later date.
Blanch/Tax Deed: Selectman Cote apprised the Board of the status of the recently acquired Town property located on Cheever Road. The previous owner is in the process of removing all personal belongs from the house, and the property should be ready to go on the market late this summer.
Motion to Adjourn Without Objection at 8:30 P.M.
Selectmen’s Minutes ~ May 31, 2007
Open: 6:30 P.M.
Present: Selectmen: Albert John Franz, Chairman; John A. Cote, Vice Chairman; David A. Conkey
Treasurer: Brian A. Howe
Secretary: Linda M. Landry
Road Agent: George C. Conkey, II (absent)
Guests: Colleen Joliviet
Minutes of May 17, 2007 Selectmen’s Meeting: The Minutes of the May 17, 2007 Selectmen’s Meeting were reviewed by the Selectmen. Motion: To approve the Minutes of the May 17, 2007 Selectmen’s Meeting as presented – by Selectman Franz, Seconded by Selectman Cote – Approved (unanimously)
Checks Signed
Road Agent’s Report: Selectman Cote liaison to the Highway Department, reported that the highway department is continuing to stockpile gravel at the Town Garage for future road projects. The plows have been painted. North Dorchester Road is open all the way through.
The Road Agent has obtained a bid to “reclaim, fine grade and compact” a one mile, 20 foot wide portion of the North Dorchester Road; from the Wentworth Town Line to the foot of Walker Hill.
Motion: To accept the bid from All States Asphalt, Inc. to reclaim, fine grade and compact a one mile by 20 foot wide portion of the North Dorchester Road; beginning at the Wentworth Town Line and extending to the foot of Walker Hill for $13,492.95 – by Selectman Franz, Seconded by Selectman Cote – Approved (unanimously)
Walker Hill: Walker Hill will need to be paved before winter. This project was earmarked by the Road Agent for completion during budget discussions. He will pursue bids for this project.
2007 Sand Bids: Selectman Cote will work with the Road Agent to determine how much winter sand will be needed for the coming winter. Once this has been determined, bids will go out.
Replacement of Truck #2: The Selectmen reviewed a Municipal bid from Dobles Chevrolet. It was decided that the Chevrolet product was heavier and more capable of performing required duties.
E. W. Sleeper will set up the truck. Dobles will search for a red truck, as the Town does not want to undergo the expense of painting the truck. Selectman Cote will pursue the availability of extended service contracts.
Public In-Put: 7:00 P.M.
Tax Collector’s Deed: The Selectmen reviewed the buy back calculations for Lot #16-690.1. The previous owner no longer resides at that residence, but there is a family “renting” from the previous owner. Housing will need to be provided for this family when the town secures the premises. The Selectmen agreed to let the Health and Human Services Director meet with the family and facilitate a plan for housing for them.
Building Permits: The Permit Officer reported on the Building Permit Application from Keith Smith; Lot #19-963.32; 2357 NH Route 118. The Permit Officer reported that he had visited the site and reviewed the “set-backs”; as the application appears to be in order he recommended that the Selectmen approve the application. The Selectmen signed the Building Permit for a 16’ X 12’ bedroom addition on Lot #19-963.32.
Public In-put Concluded ~ 7:45 P.M
50 North Dorchester Road: The Selectmen reviewed the minutes and agreement between the owner of 50 North Dorchester Road and the Town of Dorchester to clean up the property. Selectman Cote and Selectman Conkey will visit the site and report back to the Board. The property was to be cleaned up by June 1, 2007. It has been reported that scrap metal continues to be brought to the property leading to the appearance of a scrap metal recycling business.
Transfer Station: The Selectman Conkey reported that he has not had time to review state regulations.
School Residency Report: The Selectmen reviewed the residency report provided by the school district. It was determined that it is accurate.
Motion to Adjourn Without Objection at 8:26 P.M.
Selectmen’s Meeting – June 14, 2007
Open: 6:30 P.M.
Present: Selectmen: Albert John Franz, Chairman; John A. Cote, Vice Chairman; David A. Conkey
Deputy Treasurer: Jennifer Grace
Secretary: Linda M. Landry
Road Agent: George C. Conkey, II
Guests: Colleen Jolivet
Shirley LaRochelle
Ernest Lavertue
Minutes of May 31, 2007 Selectmen’s Meeting: The Minutes of the May 31, 2007 Selectmen’s Meeting were reviewed by the Selectmen. Motion: To approve the Minutes of the May 31, 2007 Selectmen’s Meeting as presented – by Selectman Cote, Seconded by Selectman Conkey – Approved (unanimously)
Checks Signed
Road Agent’s Report: The Road Agent, reported that the highway department has nearly completed the “ditching” of the North Dorchester Road.
Replacement of Truck #2: Selectman Cote reported that Dobles Chevrolet has notified the Town that they have located a “red” truck. It is due to be delivered to them the week of June 18, 2007.
A discussion followed regarding the purchase of an extended warranty. Selectman Cote will contact General Motors regarding coverage under the variety of extended warranty packages offered by General Motors. As the Town plans to enter into a municipal lease for 5 years, it is important that the extended warranty cover both engine and transmission for the life of the lease and preferably one year after the expiration of the lease. E.W. Sleeper will be notified as soon as Dobles has “prepped” the truck and is ready to have the attachments added.
“Old” Truck #2: The Road Agent reported that “Old” Truck #2 continues to have transmission problems when in reverse and “loaded”, Irwin Motors can not find any problems with the transmission. It was suggested that the Road Agent put on a load of sand and go to Irwin Motors to demonstrate the problem. Selectman Cote will contact Irwin Motors and the Road Agent will take the truck down loaded.
2007 Sand Bids: The Road Agent reported that he will need 1,000 yards of winter sand. The Selectmen reviewed the Invitation to Bid from previous years. The revised Invitation to Bid is as follows:
Sealed Bids: To be received by 6:00 P.M. July 26, 2007. Bids to be opened and awarded opened July 26, 2007, 7:00 P.M., Dorchester Town Office
Specifications: 1,000 cubic yards of winter road sand screened to ½ inch
Start/Completion date: Delivered to the Town Highway Yard and stockpiled with salt added and mixed (salt to be provided by the Town), on or before September 7, 2007 as coordinated with Town Road Agent.
Public In-Put: 7:00 P.M.
Intent to Excavate: The Selectmen reviewed and signed the following Intent to Excavate:
Lot #16-915: Michael & Linda Landry, owners of record; Province Road, access road; estimated cubic yards, 5,600 cubic yards.
Building Permits: A Building Permit was issued for the following:
24’ x 32’ (1,300 square feet) home-full time residence; Caroline Stacy & Ernest Lavertue, owners of record; Range Road (Class VI, Road Release on file), access road; Lot #19-885 acreage, 23 acres.
Public In-put Concluded ~ 7:45 P.M
50 North Dorchester Road: Selectman Cote and Selectman Conkey reported that they had visited the site and that the clean-up was nearly complete; all of the “junk” is gone, and a fence has been constructed around the rabbit cages. The individual reported that he is not running a salvage operation.
Ormsby: The Selectmen reviewed possible action to be taken against the owners of Lot #12-611.3. A building has been constructed on Lot #12-611.3 without a Building Permit. The owners then proceeded to sell one of the tracts which had been combined in 1991 to comply with Dorchester’s Land Use Regulations. The newly created lot, with the building on it, is non-conforming as it has no road frontage on a Class V or better road. The Town Attorney will be consulted regarding penalties and fines.
Transfer Station: The Selectman Conkey reported that the State requires 50’ set-backs on all boundaries. Due to this requirement, the town will have to use the parcel of land on which the highway yard sits for the Transfer Station.o This parcel consists of 9.87 acres, with ample frontage on Streeter Woods Road. The land will need to be cleared, surveyed and an engineer will need to lay out lines of latitude and longitude as well as other required documentation.
New School: Selectman Franz reported on the proposed “new” high school and the effect it could have on the tax rate.
Health Officer: The Selectmen signed the nomination form appointing the Board of Selectmen as Health Officers for Dorchester.
Motion to Adjourn Without Objection at 8:20 P.M.
Selectmen's Meeting - June 28, 2007
Open: 6:30 P.M.
Present: Selectmen: Albert John Franz, Chairman; John A. Cote, Vice Chairman; David A. Conkey
Deputy Treasurer: Jennifer Grace
Secretary: Linda M. Landry
Road Agent: George C. Conkey, II
Guests: Colleen Jolivet
Clarence Poitras Jr.
John Knott
Lisa Knott
Darlene Oaks
Minutes of June 14, 2007 Selectmen’s Meeting: The Minutes of the June 14, 2007 Selectmen’s Meeting were reviewed by the Selectmen. Corrections/Clarifications: “Page 1; Present: Deputy Treasurer: Jennifer Grade” should read “Present: Deputy Treasurer: Jennifer Grace” Motion: To approve the Minutes of the June 14, 2007 Selectmen’s Meeting as corrected – by Selectman Franz, Seconded by Selectman Conkey – Approved (unanimously)
Checks Signed
Road Agent’s Report: The Road Agent, reported that 90% of the ditching has been completed. He will be concentrating his efforts on ditching and preparing that portion of the North Dorchester Road from the junction of Bickford Woods Road to the foot of Walker Hill (approximately 1 mile). All States Asphalt, Inc. will be here the week of July 16 to reclaim, fine grade and compact that stretch of road. Once that project is complete, the paving of Walker Hill will commence. The paving of this hill is a necessity before winter; the cost is estimated to be $18,873.00.
A culvert needed to be replaced on the old North Dorchester Road, when it collapsed under the weight of a passenger car.
Replacement of Truck #2: Selectman Cote reported that Chevrolet offers municipalities a 100%, 7 years, and no deductible warranty. Dobles has the vehicle and is waiting for E. L. Sleeper to notify them when the implements are ready to be installed. The 5 year lease agreement will be prepared for signing. “Old” Truck #2: The Road Agent reported that “Old” Truck #2 has a transmission with a 3 year warranty; Irwin Motors recommended that the town use the truck and if anything goes wrong with the transmission, it will be replaced again.
Public In-Put: 7:00 P.M.
Darlene Oaks: Reported that there is some confusion on the part of the cemetery maintainers, as to the regulations pertaining to shrubs and plants in the cemeteries. The Selectmen reviewed the Cemetery Regulations with Ms. Oaks. The Regulations be came effective January 1, 2007. It states that no new shrubs or plants are to be planted in Dorchester cemeteries, but appears to allow some discretion regarding the removal of shrubs and plants which existed prior to the implementation of the regulations. Ms. Oaks was given a copy of the Cemetery Regulations. The Selectmen, suggested that Ms. Oaks discuss the matter with the Cemetery Trustees.
Ms. Oaks also asked who was responsible for maintaining the grounds around the Veterans’ Memorial located on the Town Common. The Selectmen told Ms. Oaks that the Town was responsible for mowing and trimming around the monument, as it sits on town property. Any weeding or pruning should be done by volunteers or members of the Veterans’ organization.
Public In-put Concluded ~ 7:45 P.M
Lap Top Computer: Chairman of the Supervisors of the Checklist, Darlene Oaks, asked for permission to use the Town’s Lap Top Computer for “Electionet” business, as her personal computer is not capable of handling the program sufficiently. The Selectmen asked the Treasurer if the Town Clerk/Tax Collector was still using the lap top. The Treasurer said that it was not being used by anyone at this point. The Selectmen agreed to let the Supervisors use it. The Treasurer will “clean up” the computer and give it to Ms. Oaks.
Building Permits: A Building Permit was issued for the following:
20’ x 30’ Deck on Lot #15-665 located on NH Route 118; Frank & Julie Ann Lombardi, owners of record; acreage, 136.9 acres.
Substandard Lots: The Selectmen reviewed questions to ask the Town Attorney as to how to approach “Substandard Lots” with regard to sales and building.
Hanging Map File: The Selectmen agreed to dispose of the hanging map file.
Buildings/Grounds: The Secretary reported that the fire extinguishers have not been replaced in the Town Hall after they were taken down when the hall was painted. The Road Agent said he would see if he could find them and get them hung. He stated that the pictures and awards have not been hung either and they might be damaged or broken if they were left lying around. Selectman Franz said he would hang the pictures if he knew where.
The mowing of town grounds will now be handled by Nancy Cote.
Motion to Adjourn Without Objection at 8:40 P.M.
Selectmen's Meeting - July 12, 2007
Open: 6:30 P.M.
Present: Selectmen: Albert John Franz, Chairman; John A. Cote, Vice Chairman; David A. Conkey
Treasurer: Brian Howe
Secretary: Linda M. Landry
Road Agent: George C. Conkey, II
Guests: Patricia Franz
Elizabeth Trought
William Trought
Hank Melanson
Darlene Oaks
Kathryn Quinn
Margaret Quinn
_______ Quinn
John Morrissey
Lili Whitin
Michael Majeski
Minutes of June 28, 2007 Selectmen’s Meeting: The Minutes of the June 28, 2007 Selectmen’s Meeting were reviewed by the Selectmen. Motion: To approve the Minutes of the June 28, 2007 Selectmen’s Meeting – by Selectman Franz, Seconded by Selectman Cote – Approved (unanimously)
Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer, Brian Howe reported that for the first time in many years, the town is solvent. He also reported that recent legislation will reduce the amount of financial aid towns receive through the Highway Block Grant program by approximately one-third. This legislation allocates a portion of gas tax revenues to other areas; previously all gas tax revenues were allocated to the Highway Block Grant program for the maintenance of town roads.
Checks Signed
Road Agent’s Report: Selectman Cote, liaison to the Highway Department, reported that the Road Agent has continued ditching and preparing that portion of the North Dorchester Road from the junction of Bickford Woods Road to the foot of Walker Hill (approximately 1 mile). All States Asphalt, Inc. will be here the week of July 16 to reclaim, fine grade and compact that stretch of road. Once that project is complete, the paving of Walker Hill will commence. The Road Agent has replaced one culvert on the North Dorchester Road, and two more need to be replaced.
The master cylinder on the CAT Loader is leaking; the Road Agent monitors the brake fluid in hopes of completing the road project before have it repaired.
“Four-Wheelers” continue to enter the Highway Yard, causing damage to stock piled materials, and equipment. A report has been filed with NH Fish and Game, and the area has been posted.
Intents to Cut: The following Intent to Cut was reviewed and signed by the Selectmen:
Lot #11-531; Stev Parker, owner of record; Logger: Rick Evans; Access Road: North Dorchester Road
Building Permits: Building Permits were issued for the following:
- 10’ X 34’ barn area, 8’ open “lean-to” – Total area: 18’ X 34’; on Lot #8-395.2 located on NH Route 118; David A. Conkey, owner of record; acreage, 11.49 acres.
- 24’ X 40’ new house; on Lot #8.347 located on Hearse House Road; Christopher Curtis, owner of record; acreage, 29.3 acres
- 17’ X 50’ renovation; Lot #12-676 located on River Road; Grob, Youngman & Dunlap, owners of record; acreage, 3.9 acres
Driveway Permits: The following Driveway Permits issued:
- William Ennis; North Dorchester Road within the Historic District
- Christopher Curtis; Hearse House Road
PUBLIC HEARING
PARKING REGULATIONS ON DORCHESTER ROADS
7:00 P.M.
Selectman Franz; Chairman, opened the Public Hearing by explaining the background precipitating the Public Hearing. On May 3, 2007, a Public Hearing was held in response to complaints received by the Selectmen regarding vehicles parking in front of the BET Realty property located on Streeter Woods Road. On several occasion residents of North Dorchester could not access NH Route 118 or their residence from NH Route 118 via Streeter Woods Road due to vehicles being parked on both sides of the road well into the traveled way. At that Hearing, residents expressed safety concerns, citing the inability of emergency vehicles (Canaan FAST) to access North Dorchester. At the request of several members of the attending public, the Public Hearing was continued to July 12, 2007, 7:00 P.M. at the Dorchester Town Hall. A further suggestion was to notify in writing all residents of Streeter Woods Road.
Selectman Franz, continued, that after reviewing RSA’s 265:68 through 74 under which parking regulations are covered under state law and the fact that the authority to regulate parking on public streets and highways is part of the governing body’s (selectmen) regulatory authority, as well a suggestion made by resident David Yetman at the previous Public Hearing, suggesting that parking be prohibited on all roads in Dorchester, rather than single out Streeter Woods Road; offered the following:
Motion: I move that the Town of Dorchester adopt a “No Parking” Regulation for all town roads (RSA 265:68) and that all Class V or better roads shall be posted with signage that reads “NO PARKING IN THE TRAVELED WAY - VIOLATORS WILL BE TOWED AT THE OWNERS EXPENSE” by A. John Franz, Seconded by John A. Cote
Copies of the pertinent RSA’s were distributed.
Discussion:
William Trought: Asked for the rational behind the Motion.
Selectman Franz reiterated his opening statements
Elizabeth Trought: Asked what the expense would be to “post” all roads in town
Selectman Franz responded; possibly two hundred dollars.
Elizabeth Trought: Asked about special annual events
Selectman Franz stated that if any residents in town were holding a special yearly event, wedding, funeral or other one-time event, the selectmen should be notified so emergency providers could in turn be notified of possible delays and an alternate route planned.
David Yetman: Asked if any other towns have these parking regulations
Selectman Conkey responded that town of Rumney enforces these state regulations vigorously by having the police ticket and fine offenders.
Selectman Franz responded that Canaan also enforces the State parking regulation through fines.
William Trought: Asked how the town was going to enforce the regulations, without a police force.
Selectman Franz responded that he hoped the signage would warn “would be” offenders, but if not, vehicles would be towed at the owner’s expense.
Elizabeth Trought: Stated that she did not question the Selectmen’s authority to implement such
regulations, but felt that citizens had not been suitably notified of such pending action; that the discussion should be continued at another meeting.
Selectman Franz responded that the Public had been duly notified and that there did not appear to be a need to belabor the point of a regulation that was already a State law.
David Yetman: Asked if there had been problems regarding parking on other Town roads.
The Secretary responded that the records indicated there have been complaints regarding parking in the traveled way on the following roads: Streeter Woods Road, River Road, Clough Road, North Dorchester Road, and Province Road.
John Morrissey: Asked for a clarification on the language contained in RSA 265:68
William Trought: Asked about roads such as the road by the Cheever Cemetery
The Selectmen responded that the road by the Cheever Cemetery was a Class VI road and the town could not expend any funds on that road and thus would not fall under the law.
Selectman Franz moved the question:
Motion: I move that the Town of Dorchester adopt a “No Parking” Regulation for all town roads (RSA 265:68) and that all Class V or better roads shall be posted with signage that reads “NO PARKING IN THE TRAVELED WAY VIOLATORS WILL BE TOWED AT THE OWNERS EXPENSE”
Approved: Albert John Franz
John A. Cote
Abstained: David A. Conkey
Motion: PASSED
PUBLIC HEARING Closed 7:30
Public In-Put:
John Morrissey, Chairman of the Conservation Commission: Mr. Morrissey asked for an area in one of the Town buildings to post maps and store materials of interest to the public regarding the Conservation Commission.
The Selectmen responded that whereas wall space is limited in the Town Office, file drawers could be available for the Conservation Commission.
Elizabeth Trought: Provided copies of House Bill 56 to the Selectmen
The Selectmen responded that they have received copies of House Bill 56 and are awaiting an opinion from the Town Attorney.
Elizabeth and William Trought: Requested that the Selectmen do everything in their power to rectify the continuing problem of Dorchester phone numbers with the 786 exchange appearing only in the Canaan Phone Book.
The Selectmen said they will contact Verizon.
Henry Melanson - Moderator and Darlene Oaks-Supervisor of the Checklist: Complained that they had been promised by the School District that all expenses incurred by the Town to hold the Special Meeting would be covered by the School District. Each one of the election workers had received a twenty dollar ($20.00) stipend, which was far less than the actual cost of the election. The Secretary responded that the election workers have been issued checks for the balance of their “paycheck” based on the Town rate of payment, by the Town, and that the Treasurer was in the process of issuing a letter of complaint to the business manager of the School District; itemizing all expenses incurred by the town.
Darlene Oaks, Chairman of the Supervisors, stated that the Secretary of State would not offer any support as each town sets the rate at which election workers are paid.
Hank Melanson, Moderator, stated that he didn’t want the town to have to pay for something initiated by the School District.
Selectman Franz responded that either way it is the taxpayer’s money and that it was more important that the election workers be paid for their efforts in a timely manner.
Hank Melanson thanked the Board.
Public In-Put Concluded
Dog Warrant: The Selectmen signed the Warrant for the collection of fees for unlicensed dogs.
Canaan FAST/Wentworth FAST: The Canaan FAST, provider of ambulance service for the entire Town of Dorchester is concerned with the timeliness of their response to certain areas of town. They have been in contact with Wentworth FAST regarding coverage for a portion of Dorchester. They will be meeting with the Dorchester Board of Selectmen at the next meeting (July 25, 2007), to discuss possible solutions.
Concerns and Considerations: Cost and Wentworth’s willingness to transport Dorchester residents to the hospital of their choice as Canaan FAST currently does.
Motion to Adjourn Without Objection at 8:50 P.M.
Selectmen's Meeting - July 26, 2007
Open: 6:30 P.M.
Present: Selectmen: Albert John Franz, Chairman; John A. Cote, Vice Chairman; David A. Conkey
Treasurer: Brian Howe
Secretary: Linda M. Landry
Road Agent: George C. Conkey, II
Guests: Roger Thompson
Connie Melanson
Tina Danner
Michael Landry
Carol Goodman, Canaan FAST
Claudia Anderson, Warren-Wentworth FAST
Brian Clark, Warren-Wentworth FAST
Jaye Olmstead, Voices Against Violence
Minutes of July 12, 2007 Selectmen’s Meeting: The Minutes of the July 12, 2007 Selectmen’s Meeting were reviewed by the Selectmen. Clarifications and Corrections: Page 1: “Treasurer’s Report:...He also reported that recent legislation will reduce the amount of financial aid towns receive through the Highway Block Grant program by approximately one-third. This legislation allocates a portion of gas tax revenues to other areas; previously all gas tax revenues were allocated to the Highway Block Grant program for the maintenance of town roads.” Should read: “…He also reported that recent legislation may reduce the amount of financial aid towns receive through the Highway Block Grant program by approximately one third. This legislation reduced the amount of the gas tax revenue allocated to the Highways and Bridges Fund, a portion of which funds the Block Grants, from $0.03 per gallon to $0.02 per gallon of gas purchased within the state. This reduction expires July 1, 2009, and does not reduce the gas tax, only the amount allocated to the Highways and Bridges Fund.”
Motion: To approve the Minutes of the July 12, 2007 Selectmen’s Meeting as corrected – by Selectman Franz, Seconded by Selectman Cote – Approved (unanimously)
Checks Signed
Intents to Cut: The following Intents to Cut were reviewed and signed by the Selectmen:
Lot #16-691.6; Paul & Joan von Hardenberg, owners of record; Logger: Jay Legg; Access Road: River Road.
Lot #16-691.5; Arthur Miller, owner of record; Logger: Jay Legg; Access Road: River Road.
Lot #7-357; John & Elizabeth Hodgson, owners of record; Logger: Anita Nikles Blakeman; Access Road: Davenport Road.
Inventories: Inventory forms for the coming year were ordered from the Department of Revenue Administration.
Province Road State Forest Reimbursement: The Selectmen completed the form for reimbursement/in lieu of taxes for the Province Road State Forest.
WINTER SAND BIDS
1,000 cubic yards of winter sand
7:00 P.M.
Chairman Franz opened three (3) bids for 1,000 cubic yards of winter sand to be delivered to the Town Highway yard and stockpiled with salt added and mixed (salt to be provided by the town). Chairman Franz read each bid aloud and passed it to Selectmen Conkey and Cote.
The Bids were as follows:
1.D.A. White Excavating ............................ $12,750.00 2.Warren Sand & Gravel, Inc. ..................... $9,500.00 3. Dorchester Sand & Stone ......................... $9,880.00
The Selectmen declared that the bid for 1,000 cubic yards of winter sand be awarded to Warren Sand & Gravel, Inc., as the lowest responsible bid, for $9,500.00.
The Selectmen directed the Secretary to order the salt to be delivered to the Town Highway Yard.
Public In-Put:
Ambulance Service: Carol Goodman, Canaan FAST, addressed the Selectmen regarding the time it takes Canaan FAST to respond to the (786) North Dorchester area of Dorchester. Ms. Goodman explained that Canaan FAST has been working with Warren-Wentworth FAST to provide “back-up” when it appeared that Canaan FAST was not going to be able to respond in a timely manner. As a result Canaan FAST and Warren-Wentworth FAST would like to present the following proposal for coverage for the Town of Dorchester:
Canaan FAST will continue to cover the (523) telephone exchange portion of Dorchester, as it currently does, and provide “back-up” for the (786) telephone exchange. This is the same area that the Canaan Fire Department currently covers.
Warren-Wentworth FAST will cover the (786) telephone exchange portion of Dorchester, and provide “back-up” for the (523) telephone exchange. This is the same area that the Rumney Fire Department currently covers.
This proposal, if accepted by the Selectmen, would take effect immediately, there would be no additional charges for service. Canaan FAST would transfer a portion of the funds allocated by Dorchester for Canaan FAST to the Warren-Wentworth FAST.
The Selectmen asked if the service provided by Warren-Wentworth FAST would be the same as that provided by the Canaan FAST; specifically, transport to the hospital of the patient’s choice. Warren-Wentworth FAST assured the Board that unless it was a case where the urgency of immediate care dictated transport to the nearest hospital, they would transport to the hospital of the patient’s choice.
The Selectmen unanimously agreed that this proposal would provide the residents of Dorchester with the best coverage, but asked that each FAST squad submit their budget proposal for the coming year in a timely manner.
Voices Against Violence: Jaye Olmstead, Executive Director for Voices Against Violence, thanked the Town of Dorchester for its continued support. Voices Against Violence provides direct service to adult, and child victims of domestic or sexual violence as well as stalking. These support services include crisis counseling through a 24-hour hotline; support groups for victims; hospital, police and court accompaniment; restraining order assistance; referrals to agencies for housing and food assistance; and assisting with educational and employment opportunities. Ms. Olmstead, emphasized that these services are available to both male and female victims.
Ms. Olmstead left pamphlets for the residents of Dorchester explaining the services offered by Voices Against Violence.
Connie Melanson: Ms. Melanson expressed concerns about damage done to her property, located at 50 North Dorchester Road, as a result of the road project on North Dorchester Road. Her concerns included; the fence in front of her house being unstable as a result of extensive ditching; possible flooding of her fields; and puddling of water in her driveway. The Road Agent addressed each issue and assured Ms. Melanson that when the project was finished she would have no problems. Ms. Melanson asked about increasing the foot-print of the front of her house. The Selectmen told her that because the frontage requirement could not be met, she would have to seek a “Variance” from the Board of Adjustment. Ms. Melanson was given two Building Permit Applications.
Public In-Put Concluded
Road Agent’s Report: The Road Agent reported that he has graded the following roads: Town Line Road; Pheasant Run; 1,200’ of last year road project (Manley Flat); and Clough Road. Calcium Chloride has been applied to some of the more dusty graded roads and more has been ordered. The Road Agent would like the Selectmen to approve renting the grader for an additional 2 days so that he can grade Cross Road and Province Road. The Selectmen unanimously gave approval for renting the grader or two more days.
Parking Request: The Selectmen reviewed a request by William Trought, representing D-Acres of New Hampshire, to allow limited parking on the west side of Streeter Woods Road for an event to be held on August 18, 2007 from noon to 10:00 P.M. The Selectmen approved the request and will notify emergency service providers of the possible need for alternative routes in case of an emergency.
Tax Collector’s Deed: The Selectmen accepted the Tax Collector’s Deed to the property described as a 1989 Commodore Nova 14 X 80 foot mobile home located at 1065 NH Route 118. The Selectmen will proceed as quickly as possible to dispose of the property by sealed bid, as the mobile home is sitting on property owned by another. | 
