APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN’S MEETING
July 23, 2008

If you have a problem with a Town Committee please ask to go into executive session on personnel matter. No public talk about PEOPLE. Everything in executive must be kept private.

ATTENDED:
Sallyann Hadyniak, Betty Sienkiewicz, Matt Bennett, Don Hager, Arthur Richardson, Susan Friend – Secretary to Board (due to Glen’s illness), Ron Price – Chair, Carol Richardson – Selectperson, Jay Guber – CEO, and Timothy Biggs – Selectman.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Carol and Ron viewed the July 9th selectperson meeting minutes; neither have corrections. Ron makes the motion to accept the minutes to be placed on file. Carol second the motion. Minutes approved.

CITIZEN ISSUES AND QUESTIONS:
&Mac183; Sallyann – Why aren’t copies of the minutes of previous week’s minutes made? People can not read the minutes unless you make a special trip to the Town Office to read them.

ANSWER BY RON: We have in the past made copies of the minutes available for the people when they attended the meeting to read. Somehow we neglected to do so tonight. They are available when they become available for people to view here at the Town Office and apologized that there weren’t any copies tonight. Office copy was offered for viewing or to make copies.

&Mac183; Sallyann – A machine was bought to record the minutes. Glen sits at the meeting and then takes the machine home. Let the machine take the minutes and then she take it home. $8.00/hr is a lot of money to be paying someone for taking minutes. Point being a person should only be paid once whether it is at the meeting or at home. Is she putting in time for sitting at the meeting as well as putting them together at home?

ANSWERED BY RON: As far as I know she figures the time both ways. Not sure if she charges when she is here taking the minutes or at home listening to the recorder. Whatever she turns in for time is what we pay her. I feel myself comfortable that we are not being over charged for the minutes.

ANSWERED BY CAROL: Glen’s pay slip will be requested from Erna to check how often and how much she gets paid. I heard Glen say when the recorder was purchased that it was going to take her a lot of time. I told her that unless someone questions the minutes she does not have to use the recorder – it is for back up purposes only. As far as I know, she comes in here, takes her own minutes and types from her own pages. She does not use the recorder. The only time she will have to refer to the recorder is if there was a conflict on what was said; at that time it will be downloaded to find out what was actually said.

TOWN OFFICERS:
Treasurer Report – Sign Warrants
Treasurer’s Report read aloud by Ron. (See attached note from Erna)

Erna suggests that the $31,964.00 school payment be paid after taxes are committed due to the $47,690.72 check book balance. Ron agreed. Clayton Larrabee invoice for gravel will also be added to the warrant. Carol believes that paying the school payment a week or two late wouldn’t make a huge difference. Ron agreed.

Ron motioned to accept the Treasurer’s Report and place on file. Tim seconded the motion. Treasurer’s Report has been accepted.

APPOINTED OFFICIALS:
CEO: Letter from Beaver Ridge Wind, LLC read aloud by Jay (see attached letter, permit, and plan)
Matt questioned what work was being done. Jay educated him on the intersection being widened. Matt asked if it was to be done on his side of the road. Jay replied yes. Matt said “They are not going to touch our side of the road I can tell you that. They cannot go outside those pink stakes.” Carol stated that they can do whatever they want within 33 1/3 from center of the road. Matt stated we will see about that. DOT issued all the permits. Matt requested a copy of the attached.

Cliff Lewin was contacted in regards to the two mobile homes that came in last year. The first one came in before August. The second on September 06, 2007, and both should be taxed. They were to be used as temporary housing. On July 12, 2007, an additional mobile home was approved by the Planning Board to be added but must be moved by July 2008. The Planning Board didn’t see any issues with it being in the same foot print or further back not closer to the road. The owners bought a home on the Greeley Road and are no longer living there. Carol asked if the trailers had water and sewer. Jay informed her that they were supposed to have a temporary set up and were probably using other facilities. That’s what they assumed. David permitted them. One of the trailers will need to be demolished on site as it can not be moved due to a broken frame. The other trailer can be moved. I would assume but I am asking do you want me to permit them? Ron asked if that was a Planning Board decision. Jay informed that the Planning Board gave them an extension until September of this year. No motion made.

Issued permit to Erwin and Pauline Nickless for a personal use 33’ wind turbine put on 20 Pine Ridge Lane.

Issued permit to Derik Wilson and Charlene Grotton for new trailer, deck, and 8x8 shed on from 137 Belfast Road. Other Trailer removed.

Max Ascrizzi applied for permit to change of use of his storage shed to dwelling on 79 North Palermo Road.

April 17th letter from Beverly Sebolt was discussed. Jay asked selectmen if they had any issues with him. All replied no issues - good job.

James Garrison’s trailer was brought up again - have not yet heard from him. Jay thinks it is time for the selectmen to write a letter. Carol questioned whether he actually lived there. He does have a porta potty and has no other residence. Jay asked if he will be taxed. Carol replied if that trailer is excised it cannot be taxed. This matter will be looked into further by Jay and Dave. Under Shoreline
Zoning it must be moved in 120 days. Ron made the motion to have Jay watch the 120 day then permit as the law states. Tim seconded unless situation changed then should be relooked into.

Notice of Intent to Harvest for Basil Barnes. Travis Stratton, out of Albion, will be cutting 50 acre parcel on Map 7 Lot 1. Not in Tree Growth, Shoreland Zoning and will not be clear cutting

June 12th Site visit to Prentice Grassi by Stephanie McGarvey, DEP, in regards to put a pond on his farmland outside of farmland. All set to put in for a permit.

Valerie Whittier site visited on June 12th. Weylon Wolfe regards to pt. Brook runs thru this 5 acre gravel pit. Former owner claimed to have a permit – however did not. Carol informed Jay that Basil Barnes is already in the process of getting a full permit through DEP. This needs to be looked into further.

Recent letter from DEP Stephanie McGarvey dealing with the entire town of Freedom, informed that she would no longer be the assigned field servicer of Freedom.

Nancy Bailey Farr on Palermo Road for deck permit done on July 6th.

Jay would like to make mention that if for any reason someone needed a permit; he will not stop their project if he cannot get to them on time.

Plumbing Inspector: Not Present
ACO: Not Present – but will be getting on to all the dogs.
Health Nurse: Not Present
Road Commissioner: Not Present
Fire Chief – Forrest Warden: Not Present

TOWN BOARDS:
Recreation Committee: Not Present
Historical Committee: Not Present
Planning Board: Not Present
Appeals Board: Not Present
Budget Committee: Not Present
Comprehensive Plan: Meeting tomorrow night – 07/24/08.
Public Works Committee: Not Present

NEW BUSINESS:
Mill Rate: Carol stated that the mill rate can be at 17% with an overlay of $10,000. Using Article 34 asks for $20,000 to offset taxes, $30,000 winter roads. $45,000 for URIP. $65,000 estimated as we already have $49,000 over 6 months in Revenue Sharing. The State projected $60,000. Don’t dare to go 90,000 in Revenue Sharing and come up short. So estimated was $65,000; $5,000 over projected. $12,000 for trash stickers voted in Article 21. Article 36 or 37 stated to use 80% of other revenues – not sure what other revenues will be. Can not use other monies that are designated for other funds. Using $65,000 other revenues as the town voted on we can have a 17% mill rate with $10,000 overlay or a 17.5% mill rate with $25,000 overlay. It’s up to the board to decide tonight which mill rate they would like to use. Tim leans more towards money in surplus and the higher mill rate due to fuel oil and diesel increase. Carol questioned if the overlay could be used towards such expenses. The overlay is to be used towards the 2% discount and abatements only. Tim suggested that the overlay could be used for winter roads. Carol stated it must come out of the general funds account. Ron questioned the short fall on Homestead Exemption. Carol stated that State informed her to take off as the town is not at 100% and will not give $13,000. In the past few years the total exemption was being given and the town’s check book has been picking up the balance. Ron asked if they gave the $13,000 exemption can we make up the short fall out of the overlay. Carol agrees that if she changed that back to $13,000 and gave the people the break but Augusta does not agree with that as they will not reimburse that amount. Ron stated that the town will be giving it back by taking it out of the overlay. Carol doesn’t believe that it is legal for 3 people to pass money and that a special town meeting would be required to make that decision. Ron agreed. $12,350 for Homestead Exemption - the people are losing $650 in valuation per qualifying property. Carol stated that the people are going to lose one way or the other. If $13,000 Homestead Exemption is given we’re taking it out of the check book. If at 17% Mill rate with $12,350 Homestead Exemption the people will benefit just as much and it’s legal. Tim would like to keep Homestead Exemption at what it should be; 12,350. Carol agreed and feels that it may alert the people that the town is not at 100%. Even thou back land went up 600 and a base lot another 1000, it still did not bring up to 100%. If you’re not up to 100% valuation you can not get 100% exemption back. Ron said the fact that trying to make that 100% up by raising the land rate bothered him. The State is telling us that houses are worth more than what they are valued at and do not agree with the assessment that was placed on houses by Jackie. He hates to see major land owners in town penalized. Tim stated that the land is coming up to what other surrounding towns are at. Carol believed that there will be some havoc due to the land increase. When the base lot went up in 2005 the land owners went down 1500 there base lot stayed at 7500 and land owners went down due to the 2 acre base lot. This year the base lot was increased to $16,000. as the state says you can not call it 15,000 and say 2 out of 4 differentials. Our ordinance already states you must have a driveway and power before you can have a house. Call it $10,000 for any piece of land $3000 for septic, $3000 for water State says that it should be 18,000 and for drilled well 21,000. Tim was unaware that the State indicated what a base lot should be. Tim had issues charging a base lot to land owners that own land with no road access. Property Tax Division says there’s no such thing as not having access as there is a law against land locked land. Ron asked Carol what she felt more comfortable with the higher mill rate and more over lay. Carol answered that she truly believes that they will not have many abatements as building valuation was untouched. And that she felt secure that $10,000 as last year was about the same with many abatements. Carol stated that the Mill rate was so high last year – reason being it wasn’t high enough the previous years. Otherwise a great reduction would have been seen. Tim stated that the mill rate was going down but the value was going up so tax payers wouldn’t see a change in their tax bill. Carol stated that it would be around $100 less. Carol stated that the surplus will come from taxpayers paying past year bills. If the tax bills can be made low enough and with the stimulus checks they have to pay past taxes before current bill. Ron stated that the assessing down as one major house/property was taxed twice and had to be abated roughly $4,000-5,000. Hopefully this year we will not be in that shape. Carol stated that the only thing that saved them was the Tree Growth Penalties that were taken in. We needed $25,000 last year and we had $10,000 but we made it. $50,000 was borrowed out of the CD Account and has almost that amount in the checking account now. If it had been done last year with all the errors we can do it this year. Ron asked Carol if they should go with the 17% mill rate with $10,000. Carol replied yes. Tim agreed. Mill rate was voted at 17%.

Set Commitment Date: Carol thought it would be a good idea to wait from July to August 3rd; as checks come in on that date allowing people to come in to pay half of their tax bill on that date and then on September 3rd pay the other half and still get the discount. November 3rd would be interest date allowing another check before any penalties. Also allows some time on our end to wrap up loose ends. Tax bills will be in the mail either August 2nd or 3rd. All agreed commitment date of August 3rd.

Salt Sand Pad: Tim asked if that was going to require a special town meeting. Question answered yes by Carol. Ron stated that the money will not come out of surplus but out of capital improvements. This should be done in and set up by September. A contractor needs to be selected. Sand contracts need to be sent out sometime in October by the road commissioner. Last year Clint got bids from Lee Brothers, John Works, and Pernosky. There will be a bid this year coming from the person running Littlefield’s pit. More sand will be put in to prevent not having to get more in January. The pile will have to be moved to the new salt and pad.

Special Town Meeting: Carol reminded that if there was a special town meeting held that a fall door-to-door pick up was promised. Ron stated he did not have a problem with that if it was voted for by the town. Tim agreed as long as they understood what it was going to cost. Carol stated that it could be taken out of surplus so that the meeting did not have to take place before August 3rd, commitment date. This would require setting $10,000 aside not knowing how much this would cost. Anything left can be put back into surplus. Tim asked what else needed to be voted on. Carol replied $2,000-$3,000 Trio computer fees and $5,000 auditor for 2 years – 2006 and 2007. 2008 can come out of next year’s budget. Carol mentioned that they would be getting back money from the legal fees that will be added back into surplus. Contracted services were $9,000 last year meaning all of our equipment needed to give to Trio for the audit. Only$6,000 was granted for 2008. The audit alone was around $5,000 contract was around $4,000 and the computer $1,000. Carol felt that they need to put more attention to the budget committee as they don’t realize that expenses don’t decrease but increase year after year. Carol also felt that audits are a priority and that the people shouldn’t complain after seeing what resulted in not having them. The computer system, keeping the town records, as well as door-to-door pickup should be set priorities. The grange needed to be contacted and should be set sometime in August, and discussed more at the assessor’s meeting to see when Cindy would be available.

Cost of Cell Phones: Tim brought this to Carol’s attention that cell phones are being paid for that are not being used. Carol stated that she could have them shut off until September 1st. Tim stated that the town garage has a land line. Carol stated that the town garage phone was linked to the office so that the office could use as a fax line leaving two other lines open for calls allowing outgoing calls at the garage for emergency use. Ron suggested checking into getting the phone lines situated. Carol agreed to take on that task.

Garage Dumpster and Porta Potty: Suggested that they be moved to the Rec Field from Memorial to Labor Day and returned to the town garage for the winter months. Alerting Road Commissioner that all maintenance on trucks be completed by May 1st so these facilities will not be needed at the garage and can be moved to the Rec Field.

Road Commissioner: Tim brought up the fact that Clint gets salary and gets his $14,000/52 every week. He doesn’t submit time cards so there are no records of his time and what he is doing. He feels that it should be discussed and he would like to see what Clint is doing every week. Carol stated that if we do that we need to do it to all appointed officials. Tim felt that they were in the office and it was obvious what they were doing and working the hours they were supposed to be. As far as the Road Department no one is ever down there. Carol stated that even if did not do anything he still would get paid. Ron felt that that if he traveled around the town and saw that the roads were not being taken care of properly he would be more concerned. Ron stated that he believed Clint was doing a good job and the roads are being taken care of. Ron has no issues. Tim still would like an idea of what he is doing. Ron stated that normally Clint attended these meetings and informed as to what has been done or needed to be done.

Oil Lock for Winter: Ron suggests to find who is locking in on oil at this time. Carol will make calls to Thompson’s Oil, Waldo Oil, Maritime for pricing.

OLD BUSINESS:
Security System: Security system was discussed and decided to be voted on at the special town meeting. Carol stated that items were taken from the back office. Tim assured that all key were accounted for. Sally mentioned that too many people are going in and out of that door. Rules have been made in the past; however, no one follows them. $1,500 for materials for the security system and $30 monthly fee. Hilary has a key as she helped with the audit and she should return it. Tim motions to put on special town meeting warrant. All agreed.

Jay brought up Skidgels – vote to condemn the building due to safety hazards. Would like to convince Skidgels to allow them to go onto their property or get a court order as town officials are not allowed to go onto the property. He requested that a letter be written to them allowing them to do the job there. Ron asked if there has been any business done.

Jay bumped into Shawn Bilello from Waldo County District. She mentioned that there was money sitting on Sandy Stream and Freedom Pond. Jay requested that she come down and see what she can do for us. Tim asked Jay to contact her on this matter. Jay stated that help is need on that.

ADJOURNMENT: t.

Motion made by Ron. Seconded by Carol and Tim.

Ron Motioned to re-open to pay Clayton Larrabee invoice. Seconded by C arol.

Adjournment motion made by Ron. Seconded by Carol and Tim.

Date of next Selectperson’s Meeting – August 6, 2008

Secretary Susan Friend

APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN’S MEETING
JULY 9, 2008 6 PM

Meeting was called to order at 6:02 PM by Chairman Ron Price. Present were Ron Price (Chair), Tim Biggs (Selectman), Carol Richardson (Selectman), Erna Keller (Treasurer), Dave Bridges, Arthur Richardson, Betty Sienkiewicz, Clint Spaulding (Road Commissioner) and son, Sallyann Hadyniak, Matt Bennett, and Glen Bridges (Secretary).

APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Minutes from June 25th were approved as amended.

CITIZEN’S ISSUES: None

TREASURER’S REPORT: Last week’s payroll was $1,584.25, and the accounts payable warrant was $671.50 for the BMV. Erna provided a folder listing updated funds on deposit totaling $272,236.18 This week’s payroll is $1202.87. The accounts payable warrant is
$29, 714.50. The current checkbook balance is $46,266.63 before paying this week’s warrant. A check has been received for $855.19 covering expenses for ballot clerks and Cindy Abbott’s time for the June 10 election. Discussion followed about town-owned tents, and an estimate was included for new telephones.
Ron moved, seconded by Carol, to accept the Treasurer’s report as written, and place it on file.

TOWN OFFICERS:
Animal Control Officer: Carol proposed that the ACO be paid $50 to go door-to-door to find unregistered dogs. She believes there may be numerous dogs, and licensing them will bring in revenue. Carol moved to take $50 out of incidentals to pay the ACO to find unlicensed dogs. Tim seconded, motion carried.

Health Nurse: In Marion’s absence, Carol reported that there is a severe outbreak in Maine of a form of syphilis. It was questioned if condoms are available at Mt. View, and Erna said they are.

Road Commissioner: Clint reported that Rollins Road is finished, several culverts need to be replaced, one on Greeley, one near Dave Phillips’, and another near Dave Rector’s. Smithton has had 500’ rebuilt. Greeley needs to be ditched. Carol said that we have used last year’s paving account, and have not yet used this year’s paving account.
Clint needs two pallets of calcium to spread on dirt roads.
We have $14,000 in URIP funds, and will be receiving more in August, according to Carol.

Tim asked to start a discussion on what to heat for the winter, because of the high price of oil. Clint explained that trucks need to be warm to start, and sanders have to be kept from freezing. And the Dept. of Labor requires heat in the garage if people work there. A lengthy discussion followed about insulating, and weather stripping, the way the trucks don’t fit, and the garage doors are too narrow, but the height is adequate. Ways to extend the garage were discussed. Carol pointed out that we haven’t appointed a Public Works Committee since 2006, and it was agreed that the future of the garage would be better decided by that committee. Names suggested were Drew Fales, Jim Little, Tim Biggs, Lendahl Chase, Gerry Spaulding.

Tim suggests that for this year we should at least insulate the building and put in weather stripping, and Carol volunteered to get three estimates.

Clint asked what the Town wants to do with the pile of fill (dead sand) that is behind the town garage. He explained that dead sand acts like clay, with rounded particles. Clint needs to dig out around the sand pile area, and needs a place to put it. With the salt it contains, Ron said we don’t want it near the Town Office’s well and neighbor’s well. Tim moved, seconded by Ron, that Clint should try to incorporate the dead sand into the winter sand pile, and if that doesn’t work, then to give it away. Motion carried.

Tim moved to accept the vendor’s warrant of $29,714.50. Ron seconded, and passed.
Tim moved to accept the payroll warrant of #1202.87, seconded by Ron and carried.

Carol moved to open a Staples Rewards Account. Ron seconded, and passed.
Carol moved to let Erna borrow the Town tents. Tim seconded, passed.

TOWN BOARDS/COMMITTEES:
Dave Bridges reported that the Appeals Board held a brief meeting for the purpose of approving the minutes from the May 1,2008 hearing.

NEW BUSINESS:
The taxation on gravel pits was discussed, with comparisons of figures from nearby towns. The Assessors will inspect Basil Barnes’ pit to see if it is operational.

Thirty-three letters have gone out to tractor owners inviting them to excise their tractors, or pay personal property tax, whichever is less. Carol learned that the state now allows any equipment to be excised-- loaders, skidders, etc.

NEW BUSINESS:
MMA Risk Management Service reports that all of Freedom’s events were fire related, except for one injured plow truck driver.

MMA Property & Casualty Insurance is charging Freedom more ($12,040) for insurance because the audits are not up to date. Tim looked up the budgeted amount for insurance in the Town Report, and found it was $15,000.

Sallyann Hadyniak asked who is responsible for getting the audits done every year. Ron and Carol explained that the Selectmen are ultimately responsible. Ron pointed out that, “as far as the audits are concerned, if not for Carol’s willingness to put in all the work, we wouldn’t have made the progress that we have”.

Carol said that Audrey Williams needs to be re-appointed to the Budget Committee, but hasn’t responded to three letters.

Tom LaFreniere has requested that he not be taxed on his father’s backhoe.

Carol reported that she has hired someone to help proof tax cards. The money appropriated by the budget Committee for deputy clerks is $3,000 this year. Erna pointed out that the Secretary is being paid out of deputy clerk monies. It has to be kept that way because that is how the Town voted.

Ron moved that the Secretary be paid out of Deputy Clerk monies until next Town Meeting. Tim seconded, passed unanimously.

Next Selectmen’s Meeting: July 23, 2008 at 6 PM.
Next Assessor’s Meetings: July 14 and July 21 at 7 PM.

Meeting adjourned at 7:36 PM. Recorded on new Sony digital recorder purchased by Carol.

Respectfully submitted,

Glen Bridges, Secretary

APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM SELECTMEN’S MEETING
JUNE 25, 2008 6 PM

Carol Richardson called the meeting to order at 6:05 PM. Present were Carol Richardson (Selectman), Tim Biggs (Selectman), Ron Price (Select Board Chair), Hilary Fleming (Comprehensive Plan Committee), Tom Fleming, Thressa Abbott, Betty Sienkiewicz, Dave Bridges, Glen Bridges (Secretary), Thelma Ledden, Arthur Richardson, and later on, Prentice and Joseph Grassi, and Sallyann Hadyniak.

Glen asked if the new digital tape recorder had been purchased, but it hadn’t because the one Carol had in mind has no microphone. She’ll keep looking for one with a microphone. This meeting will have no back-up recording.

REVIEW MINUTES: The minutes were reviewed and approved as corrected.

CITIZEN’S ISSUES: Dave Bridges asked when the audits are expected to be finished. Carol replied that the 2005 audit will be finished soon, and a bill has been received from the auditor for $5100 for that work. The Board needs to have more money appropriated to pay for the next two audits. It costs about $2-3,000 for a regular audit.

TREASURER’S REPORT:
Erna reported that last week’s payroll was $2,334.44, including election personnel, and the Accounts Payable totaled $4,152.25 including 2 weeks for BMV.
This week’s payroll is $4,545.39 including 3 Selectmen, CEO, LPI, ACO, and all regular payroll.
Checkbook balance is $84,904.26 after transferring $50,000 from the Capital Improvement Account (borrowed as approved at Town Meeting), and transferring the balance of $6680 from the Paving account to pay Littlefield for Mitchell/Deer Hill apron.
The Accounts payable for this week is $57,545.60, which includes the school payment.
Sullivan’s has sent a letter about increasing their bill by $5 for dumpsters due to fuel prices.
Carol moved to accept the Treasurer’s Report as read, seconded by Tim, and passed.

TOWN OFFICIALS:
CEO/LPI: Dave Schofield, sitting in for Jay Guber, related that Jay Guber had a heart attack about a week ago, and is recovering nicely after two stents were put in.
Dave will be assisting Jay, but Jay plans to keep on top of the Beaver Ridge project. Building permit applications are down by about 80% in Freedom, so not much is happening. Dave applied for a grant for a septic system. Ciambro will be putting in the electric line for the wind turbines.

ROAD COMMISSIONER: Carol has found $7,922.82 in unused 2005 FEMA money, and $30,309 in unused URIP funds. These monies can only be used for summer roads, or spent on improvements that have a life of 10 years, and have to be held in the Capital (Improvement?) Fund. They can not be held in the General Fund. Clint remembers that Lee Bros. paid for FEMA work in 2006.
Carol added that all back monies from Municipal Revenue Sharing have to be used for tax reduction, and kept in the “Repo” account. In 2005, more money was used for Revenue Sharing than came in.







TOWN BOARDS/COMMITTEES:

Historical Society: The bill for improvements on the old meeting hall was submitted before the job is finished. The Chair of the Historical Society should OK the bill for $1280, included in the Accounts Payable warrant, before it is paid.

Comprehensive Plan. Committee: Hilary reported that in September, new rules will be in place for comprehensive plans. The committee will meet June 26 to talk about business, economics, and a long-range capital improvement plan. Doug Van Horn will attend, and Selectmen are welcome. We’ll meet with Paul Flynn and other business people at a later time.

Emergency Management: Tine Freeman has submitted a request to be the Emergency Management Director. Ron moved, seconded by Carol, to appoint Tina to that position. Motion carried.

Public Works Committee: Trucks have been washed, plows removed, etc. The paving cost for Mitchell/#137 was $3150, and Mitchell/ Deer Hill was $3530. (including asphalt?)

The Town was billed $1400 for hauling the brush from Greeley, Smithton, and Raven Roads to the dump site.

The question of heating the Town garage was raised again. Should the garage be insulated, or just one bay heated? This has come up again because the plan to build a new garage has been dropped due to prohibitive costs. The Freedom Fire House is having insulation blown into the space above the ceiling.

OLD BUSINESS:
Ron asked for a report on expenditures on summer roads. The budget started with $26,000. $18,000 of which has been spent, leaving $7,900. This figure will change as we get URIP funds. Carol asked Clint to apply the cost of projects that last over ten years to URIP funds. When the Town receives the URIP funds, we can reimburse the paving account.

Ron reported that his lawyer estimates that the lawsuit over the status of roads, filed by Bennett et al, may not be in the courts for over a year.

NEW BUSINESS:
A security system from Coastal Security would cost $1500 for materials, with free installation labor, to protect the Town Office from fire and theft, with a $30/month cost.

Carol moved, seconded by Tim, to allow the Post Office staff to come into the Town Office in case of an emergency situation, as requested by Arlene Callahan. Motion carried.

Prentice Grassi came in with his son Joseph. Prentice had talked to Carol, and wanted the Select Board to know that he didn’t feel it was appropriate for the Selectmen to send out a letter against the referendum to reinstate the Commercial Development Review Ordinance. He felt that such a contentious issue should have been let to play out on its own. Carol pointed out that the former Select Board had previously sent out a similar letter on the other side of the issue, but in retrospect, now, she feels it was a mistake.

Tim responded that the Selectmen are free to support a project that benefits the Town, and that the ordinance was used repeatedly just to litigate and appeal the project, every single point in the ordinance was litigated.
Prentice said he had wanted the ordinance reinstated, and felt that the Selectmen should have wanted it reinstated.
Dave Bridges spoke up in support of the Selectmen getting behind a project that is of such benefit to the Town, with recognition to Prentice and the Planning Board for the hard work they put into the ordinance. The opposition just used the ordinance, which “they fought, but we all supported”, as a litigation tool to try to halt the project.

Tim asked about the status of the elm trees given to the Town, and Prentice replied that he has planted them, and would recommend that they not be transplanted until fall when they are dormant.

Carol brought up the reporting of tractors to be taxed as personal property. They need to be reported, and a letter is going out to the Town about it. Tractors can also be excised. Personal property that is used for business can be reimbursed under the BETE program.

Tim moved, seconded by Carol, to sign the Payroll warrant. Motion passed.
Tim moved, seconded by Carol, to sign the Accounts Payable warrant. Motion carried.

There will be an Assessor’s Meeting every Monday at 7 PM.

The next selectmen’s Meeting will be July 9, 2008.

Ron moved, seconded by Tim, to adjourn. Motion carried.

Meeting adjourned at 7:20 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Glen Bridges

APPROVED TOWN OF FREEDOM/BOARD OF SELECTMEN’S MEETING MINUTES
JUNE 11, 2008

Meeting called to order by Selectman Carol Richardson at 6:01 PM.
Present: Carol Richardson (Selectman), Tim Biggs (Selectman), Thelma Ledden, Hilary
Fleming (Comp. Planning Committee) , Tom Fleming, Betty Sienkiewicz, Marion Bowers Health Officer), Pete Bowers, Dave Bridges, Erna Keller (Treasurer), Meredith Coffin, Clint Spaulding (Road Commissioner), Glen Bridges (Secretary), Jay Guber (CEO), Sallyann Hadyniak. Chairman Ron Price was delayed, arriving at 6:40PM.

REVIEW MINUTES: [Taken out of sequence] Minutes were accepted as corrected.

CITIZEN’S ISSUES: Carol has called Bill Kelly and/or MMA to get research and a determination on several issues:

1. Regarding the availability of unapproved minutes, MMA has said that they should be marked “unapproved” and be available to the public. Carol has also asked Bill Kelly to provide the Town with his advice on this in writing.

2. Bill Kelly’s office has advised Carol that since we already have an Emergency Management Director, we should wait until a written resignation has been accepted by the Board of Selectmen before proceeding to appoint an assistant EMD.

3. MMA advises that fencing is exempt as “structures” in Shoreland Zoning, so should amend our Building Permit Ordinance to exempt fences.

4. MMA tells Carol that if we want their advice in writing, then our questions need to be written.

5. Bill Kelly requested that letters pertaining to Executive Session issues, in which Chairman Ron Price has a conflict of interest, should only go to the addressees, and not be made public.

6. MMA has advised Carol (three times) that “it is not legal to require the Town Clerk to appoint a Deputy Clerk”.

Carol handed out gifts of flower seedlings and thank you cards to various people who have volunteered their time for Town work.

TOWN OFFICERS:

Animal Control Officer: In response to a letter from Heidi Blood, Carol moved that the ACO will get mileage only for travel from Freedom to shelters. Tim seconded, passed with two votes present. Ron arrived, and noted that the mileage figure needs to be raised, and the letter to Blood should include that information.

Health Officer: Marion Bowers related the details about commercial tomatoes (not the ones grown in Maine) containing e-coli toxins.

Recycling Director: Meredith Coffin reported that recycling has increased. Last year eleven loads were shipped out. So far this year eight have already been shipped. The recyclery is interested in providing the service of accepting brown goods, white goods, fluid waste, household hazardous waste, metals, and rigid plastics. The Selectmen asked Meredith to find out what it would cost the Town to participate, and were generally positive about the idea. Meredith said that they have plenty of acreage for this expansion.

Road Commissioner: Carol reported that Louie Murray is asking for a culvert to divert water around his building. Discussion followed about how this could be done.

Mowing the roadsides this year will increase from $1000 to $1200. Ron moved to pay Bo Spaulding $1200, seconded by Tim, and carried.

Brush cutting was discussed. Tim suggested hauling it to the landfill. The cost of chipping was discussed; Clint would prefer not to borrow Wilson Hess’s chipper. A pulp loader, to haul brush, costs $800 per day. A chipper can be rented for $150 per week. The roads included are mostly Greeley, Raven, and Smithton Roads. Clint repeated that we can dump it over the north bank of the old dump, and it is ok to drive over the north end.
Ron moved to haul it to the dump. Tim seconded. Motion passed with Carol abstaining.

Tim Biggs asked why trucks are not yet cleaned, and plows removed. Clint replied that the power washer has just been repaired. The plan is to get it done right away. Tim asked about the progress on Smithton Road; Clint replied that it has been dug out, and Littlefield will do the paving.

Code Enforcement Officer: Jay Guber reported that Frances Walker returned her Appeals Board documents to the Town Office, and they were faxed to Bill Kelly by the deadline.

Jay met with the Planning Board. A permit has been approved for Gary Hagarty for a fee of $100, for a barn and upstairs office. He will be running a security training business called Ameriguard. The actual training will occur on the Montville side of his property.

Jay has been monitoring the wind turbine construction, and has met on-site with Val Whittier, Lane Gray, and Drew Reynolds of Cashman, Inc. The foundation for turbine #1 is finished, and #2 is underway.

A question arose about the setback to turbine #3. CES faxed a letter explaining that from the start, their applications and plans had measured from the center of each turbine, and their plans have not changed. The town attorney advised that the question is irrelevant because town ordinances do not require a 350’ setback.

Jay reported that people are questioning Ron Price’s building permit, written on Nov. 1, 2007. Ron replied that until the issue of his right to run power up the Sibley Road is settled by the Court, he will not re-apply. Tim pointed out that the Board of Selectmen have declared Sibley Rd. open as a public way, but Ron responded that it is still in the Courts. Jay suggested Ron use Deer Hill for his access, but that road is also being challenged in the courts. After more discussion, Ron said that he will re-apply after the crop is harvested off his building site.
[Please note: a lengthy record of this conversation is attached, which was requested by Town Clerk Cindy Abbott as an excerpt from the minutes before they were completed.]

Read Brugger is tearing down a small garage and wants to replace it with a bigger one 39’ from the center of the road.

Cliff Lewin has two trailers on his property; his daughter is asking for an extension of the date for removal (July 1st).

On the corner of Greeley Rd., James Garrison is living in a camper with a “Triple A” toilet. Jay wants him to get a septic design and building permit, or to show documentation that he is emptying his camper sewage into a commercial dump station.

James (Binky) Fine needs a permit-by-rule to build a stockade fence in a Shoreland Zone. Jay interprets our Building Ordinance as intending fences to be considered structures. Boundaries have to be correct, and the good side of the fence has to face the neighboring property. Neighbors should sign a notarized agreement to allow the fence on the property line. Tim said we need to amend the ordinance to be more reasonable. Tim moved to give Mr. Fine permission to put up a fence on the boundary line between his property (Mike Knowlton’s former house) and Freedom Town property. Seconded by Carol, and passed.

TOWN COMMITTEES/BOARDS:

Recreation Committee: Amy Brown wants to be on this committee. She wants to fundraise to put railings on the Sandy Pond walk bridge, and to place a plaque in memory of Angela Gallant. Discussion followed about the risk and Town liability with or without a railing. Jay Guber suggested Amy be asked to submit a drawing of their plans. No action was taken. Field days will be August 23, 2008, and the theme will be “Go Green!”.

Appeals Board: Frances Walker turned in her documents to be faxed to Bill Kelly on the deadline date.

Comprehensive Plan: Hilary reported that the next meeting is June 12. We will be discussing economics, and the Planning Board is looking over the housing section.

OLD BUSINESS:
Carol reported that State law requires the Board to hire election help[statute attached].

Carol moved that the Secretary (Deputy Clerk) be paid from “Miscellaneous” until the Town appropriates the funds. Ron seconded, and motion carried unanimously.

Carol suggested re-visiting the issue of declaring roads open. The Board reviewed the motion passed at the May 29 meeting, and decided to replace it with a clearer and more complete motion. Carol preferred to declare open all five roads addressed in Art. 34 of the 1955 Town Report, and all 3 roads from Art. 38 in the 1974 Town Report. On the road leading from Dean’s corner to Dean’s barn, a culvert was installed in 2001.

Carol Richardson moved “that all five roads mentioned in Articles 34, 43, and 44 of the 1955 Town Report, and three roads mentioned in Article 38 of the 1974 Town Report are declared open as public ways, and closed for maintenance only until a Court deems otherwise. Articles from Town Reports are to be attached.” Tim seconded. Passed, with Ron Price recusing his vote.

NEW BUSINESS:

Carol reported that Lucas Tree Service visited the office to tell Carol of their plans to cut trees along Mitchell Road for the new power line, and she told them to go ahead as long as they were cutting within the town right-of-way. A problem arose when a nearby homeowner was notified that old maples would be cut, which they had previously been assured would not be cut. This was settled after a number of phone calls. The maples will be saved.

Carol reported that townspeople are calling (or coming in) asking what the Selectmen are doing about the issue of Ron Price’s residence. She noted that establishing residency is Cindy Abbott’s responsibility as register of voters. Ron Price responded. Please see the previously mentioned excerpt (attached) for the complete discussion.

Carol moved that pursuant to 1 M.R.S.A. 405(6) the Board would move into Executive session to discuss a personnel matter. The Board returned 25 minutes later.

Carol asked about the memorial benches, and Ron replied that he will look into it and get them to Freedom. Ron added that it is time to get the elm trees planted; Prentice Grassi has them.

Susan Friend presented the Town with portraits of Elsie MacDonald and Roy Ward, to be hung in the Town Office.

Carol has found a 200 hour digital recorder which can tape a meeting onto a CD. We should be taping all Town board meetings. Tim moved to buy the recorder, Ron seconded, and motion carried.

Regarding Town mail, Carol moved that Cindy and Joanne Knowlton should keep the mail log, with the exception of junk mail, and give mail unopened to the addressee. Mail to the Town, Treasurer, or Tax Collector may be opened. Discussion followed that this concern, according to Ron, is coming from citizens who bully and intimidate our office staff, who are accusing Cindy of passing on mail from attorneys. Carol said that a former Selectman told the Town auditor that mail is “being hidden”. Carol said that it is Cindy and Joanne asking for this motion because they are afraid that they will be sued. Ron pointed out that they are protected by the Maine Tort law. Tim felt that the Board should do what Cindy & Joanne have requested. Tim seconded the motion, which passed with Ron voting against it.

Four abatement applications were discussed, approved, and signed.

New appointments were made for the recreation committee, because of the change in term lengths, for Scott Holmes, Clint & Christine Spaulding, Kim Holmes, and Keisha Whitman.

TREASURER’S REPORT:
Discussion about the 2005 audit: Carol is still hunting for figures. One problem is that the Town checkbook wasn’t reconciled for a number of years.
Carol found a checking account that had been moved from Peoples Heritage to BSB, but never emptied out, containing $3.52.

Erna reported that the payroll for last week (ending 5/31/08) was $1445.21
The Accounts Payable last week totaled $1767.55, which includes monies for dog licenses, BMV and RV, hunting and fishing licenses.
Payroll this week, ending 6/7/08, is $2915.19, and includes _ year of Fire Chief’s pay.
Checkbook balance is $36,491.18 after payroll.
Accounts payable this week is $41,445.15 (which would leave us in the red).
Check received from URB Rural INIT Program, payment #4 for $7904.
Total for road work and paving comes to $23,275. $11,040 for paving can come out of the paving account, which totals $20,000.
A bill has been received for $5100 for the 2005 audit.

Ron moved to sign the payroll warrant of $2915.19, Carol seconded, and 3 voted in favor.
Tim moved to pay the vendor warrant of $30,965.15, subtracting bills of $5380 and $5100. Carol seconded, motion carried.

Erna recommended renewing the Town CD for 36 months, and the Selectmen agreed.

Carol announced that the voters turned down the Town article to reinstate the Commercial Development Review Ordinance with a total of 283 votes, 2 void votes, 164 no votes and 117 yes votes.

Regarding requests for mileage reimbursement, Carol said that Town employees are not generally paid for travel in Freedom. She suggested paying _ of Clint’s cell phone, or $20 per month back to March, but Tim found that this charge for expenses was in the vendor warrant ($150 for mileage and $150 for 6 mos. of cell phone).

Glen Bridges expressed her concern that having to listen to a tape would increase her hours and the Town’s cost, but was advised that it would not often be necessary to review the tapes.

Next meeting will be June 25 at 6 PM.

Meeting adjourned at 9:53 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Glen Bridges

Attachments: 4 pages from 1955 and 1974 town Reports
Excerpt of sections involving Ron’s residency and building permit
Statute about appointing election staff

Excerpt from unapproved minutes of Freedom Selectmen’s meeting of June 11, 2008:

Ron Price was delayed, arriving at 6:43 PM.

Selectman Carol Richardson reported that many people have called the Town Office to ask what the Selectmen are doing about the issue of Ron Price’s residence. She said that the Selectmen have nothing to do with establishing residency for anyone; that it is Cindy’s responsibility as Register of Voters.

Ron responded that whoever is making these calls is “barking up the wrong tree”. He lived in 13 states before starting school, and went to school in 7 states. His parents maintained a home and legal residency in Skowhegan, Maine throughout that time. Sometimes they flew home to vote.

Ron explained further, that his legal residency is Freedom, it has always been Freedom. He has never changed his residency and has no intention of changing his residency. He likes living in Freedom, likes being a resident of Freedom. He is presently house-sitting for his son. He still maintains a residence in Freedom. His belongings are there. He has a bedroom there.

There is opportunity, Ron suggested, for people “who want me out of office”. It is called a recall.

Jay Guber, CEO, reported that 6 months has elapsed on Ron Price’s building permit. He has submitted a septic design, and the process can continue when he re-applies.

Carol reported that the Town Office is getting calls from residents wanting to know when the Selectmen are going to “force Ron to resign”.

Ron replied that he will not re-apply until the road issue is determined and he feels comfortable to run power lines to his property. There is now a lawsuit, in which he has been named, asking for a declaratory judgment saying that the road is not a public way.

Tim reminded the group that the Selectmen have declared that the roads are open as public ways. Jay suggested using Deer Hill Road, but Ron pointed out that Deer Hill is one of the roads being challenged in the lawsuit.

Ron said, “I am going to do something up there, but not as long as this is pending.”
He has hired a lawyer to represent him. He wants to be guaranteed that he has access to his property, and that he is not trespassing, as he has been accused of.

Once the crop has been harvested off his property, he plans to re-apply for the building permit.

[This excerpt was provided by request from the Freedom Town Clerk prior to the completion of the minutes. Respectfully submitted, Glen Bridges, Secretary].

APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
MAY 29, 2008

Meeting was called to order at 6:09 by Selectman Carol Richardson. Present also were Selectman Tim Biggs, CEO Jay Guber, Dave Bridges, Betty Sienkiewicz, Sallyann Hadyniak, Clint Spaulding (Road Commissioner), Erna Keller (Treasurer) and Glen Bridges, Secretary. Chairman Ron Price was detained, arriving at 8:20 PM.

CITIZEN’S ISSUES: None

CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER:
Jay Guber reported that he met with the Planning Board last Thursday. A permit was given to Prentice Grassi for a bunkhouse, followed by a discussion about how large a footprint his buildings may take up. A barn is proposed on Burnham Hill Road in Freedom, the property owner needs to determine the Freedom/Montville line.

Jay will be meeting on the Beaver Ridge Windmill site tomorrow with Jamie Doyle, VP of Jay Cashman, Inc. , Val Whittier, Drew Reynolds (site superintendent), and Lane H. Gray, surveyor. One acre of soil may be disturbed with no DEP review; any revised plot plan would have to be reviewed by the Planning Board. Jay received a call from a neighbor to the project concerned about blasting. Jay replied that he expects there will be no need for blasting, but assured the caller that neighbors on Bennett and Sibley Lane would be notified in advance if any blasting was planned.

Jay has received two letters from Bill Kelly.

RECREATION COMMITTEE:
The new committee met last Thursday, May 22. The committee needs to have two signs, one warning people who use the recreation field that alcohol and drugs are forbidden, and the other to prevent entering the field after sunset except for Town functions. Tim moved to order two signs for $45 each, funds to be taken out of “miscellaneous”. Carol seconded, and motion carried.

Jay Guber pointed out that the Boat Launch sign is broken and needs repair.

The ordinance creating the Recreation Committee needs to be amended to allow for members to be from out of Town. Cindy Abbott is involved, and may be willing to organize the parade for Field Days. Carol said we should add that to the agenda for a special Town meeting. Also, Carol said the members all have to be sworn in again because of the staggered terms of 5,4,3,2, and 1 year.

ROAD COMMISSIONER:
The base has been put down on Rollins Road. Smithton Rd. will be started soon, in the Harvey Hill area. One brush chipper wants $150 per hour to chip and haul off chips. Discussion followed about more economical ways to get the job done. We can’t use the old dump site, except perhaps over the edge of the far end. The numbers cited at the May 14 Selectman’s meeting about how to raise the pay of brush cutters was corrected when Erna looked at the actual figures in the books. It turned out that adding 13 cents per hour brought their pay to the requested level.

TREASURER:
Erna reported that last week’s payroll was $2603.22, and the accounts payable warrant was $383 for the BMV. This week the payroll comes to $2855.46. The accounts payable warrant is $10,051.49. The checkbook balance, after paying payroll and warrant will be $18,953.45. Checks have come in for $11,871.5 from Municipal Revenue Sharing, and $991.10 from MRC, both figures are included in the checkbook balance of $18,953.45.

We have a CD in the amount of $9346.95 maturing on June 7, 2008 which has been called “Town Surplus”. Carol moved, seconded by Tim, to renew the CD. Motion carried.

Erna asked, for Cindy Abbot, if we are going to pay Don Berry for moderating the recent hearing? Erna checked into the amount paid him a year ago, and Carol moved to pay him the same $50, seconded by Tim, and passed.

COMPREHENSIVE PLAN COMMITTEE: Next meeting is June 12, 2008. Some CPC members will attend the Planning Board meeting on June 5th.

OLD BUSINESS:
Dumpsters at the Boat Launch facility was discussed, and the history of problems that come with it. Carol moved to try putting a dumpster there again until October 1st. Tim seconded, passed.

The Gantry has been rated to 6,000 lbs., but needs a new chain, grade 80 S-8 alloy.

Two calls have come in from metal dealers who want t o buy steel. They are Don York from Montville, phone 382-3124 and Freeman Marshall, Jackson, phone 722-4244. They are both paying for washers, dryers, freezers, refrigerators, and junk vehicles.

NEW BUSINESS:

At 7 PM Bill Kelly arrived, and Carol cited 1 MRSA 405 (6), for the Board (Carol and Tim) to go into executive session with the Town attorney. They returned at 8:26 PM.

Tim moved that the Selectmen, after researching Town Reports, are declaring that the following roads are open as public Town ways until the Court may deem otherwise. Further, according to 23 M.R.S.A. 3028, Subsection 2: “ The determination of the municipal officers regarding the status of a town way or public easement is binding on all persons until a final determination of that status has been made by a court, unless otherwise ordered by a court during the pendency of litigation to determine the status.” In addition, under Subsection 3: “if the municipal officers have determined under subsection 2 that the way is a town way or public easement and a court has not ordered otherwise, the municipality or an abutter on the way, acting with the written permission of the municipal officers, may remove any gates, bars or other obstruction in the way.”
1. Beaver Hill Road (from Olie Ward’s to the discontinued portion of the Beaver Ridge Road).
2. Sibley Road extension (from Dean’s Corner to Dean’s Barn).
3. Deer hill Road (from Peter Greenwood Drive to Dean’s Corner).
[NOTE: This motion was revised at the next meeting on June 11, 2008]

Carol seconded Tim’s motion, which carried with two votes. Ron Price recused himself.

The minutes from May 14th were corrected. Tim moved, with second from Ron, to approve the minutes as corrected.

Tim moved to sign the payroll warrant of $2855.46. Ron seconded, passed unanimously. Tim moved, seconded by Ron, to sign the vendor warrant of $10,051.49. Motion carried.

Carol thinks the Select board has the responsibility of appointing election help rather than the Town Clerk.

Carol reviewed 6 property tax abatements totaling $1432.41, and 2 supplemental tax bills totaling $1136.76

The next Selectmen’s meeting will be June 11, 2008.

Motion by Carol to adjourn, seconded by Tim, and passed at 9:10 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Glen Bridges, Secretary

Attachment: 23 M.R.S. A. 3028

APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN’S MEETING
MAY 14, 2008


Meeting called to order at 6:00 PM. Present: Chairman Ron Price, Selectmen Tim Biggs and Carol Richardson, CEO Jay Guber, Arthur Richardson, Marian Bowers (Health Officer), Road Commissioner Clint Spaulding, Betty Sienkiewicz, Dave Bridges, Scott Holmes, Thressa Abbott, Kathy Cunningham (SAD 3 Rep), Glen Bridges (Secretary), and Jerry Sullivan with Mrs. Sullivan.

Chairman Ron Price explained, “From now on I will be enforcing rules of order. This is a Selectmen’s working meeting. Citizen’s issues will be limited to five minutes. As much as your help is appreciated, we need to keep these meetings on a higher level, with some self-discipline and fewer extraneous comments, please”.

Minutes from April 30 were reviewed, corrected, and approved to be placed on file. The secretary wasn’t sure if she had sent these out by e-mail, but if not, will send them out.

SPRING BROWN GOODS CLEAN UP DAY:
Jerry Sullivan could not guarantee that door-to-door pick-up would be under $5,000; Ron and Tim wanted a written, guaranteed estimate of under $5,000 before agreeing to door-to-door pick-up. Last year, it cost $2200 for brown goods at a central location, or $30 per household (we have 359 houses).
Carol said she thought she had the OK of the other two Selectmen to go ahead, so she started notifying people and posting an announcement. Tim pointed out that the Selectmen need to vote on these issues; now, people have been notified before we voted.
Jerry Sullivan said that he can’t predict the cost, but the metal will be taken before his trucks come. Carol said she called PERC and they get $4 each for tires, or 70 tires per ton. The Selectmen agreed to leave tires at $2 each. PERC charges $68 per ton, and Sawyer’s mountain charges $95 per ton. Jerry pointed out that tires can be rejected from door-to-door pick-up, since they can go into regular weekly pickup with a sticker. TVs, monitors, and electronics can go to Thorndike. No wood or brush should be accepted. Dumpsters cost $75 to put in place; $150 to haul away.
The Selectmen looked at this year’s Town Report, and found that the Town only voted for $2500 for brown goods. Ron moved to have on-site pick-up this spring; and postpone door-to-door pick-up maybe this fall. No tires, steel, wood, or electronics. Tim seconded. Vote carried, with Carol opposed. The date will be June 14 at the old dump on Mitchell Road, from 9 AM to 3 PM. Public works will prepare a space with a bulldozer, and will supervise.
Thelma asked how to get rid of a wooden platform, and was advised to burn it.

CITIZEN’S ISSUES:
Jay Guber raised the issue of a rumor being started that he is an investor in Beaver Ridge Wind, LLC. Not true, he said, never has been and never will be true. Glen Bridges said that she and Dave Bridges were included in that rumor, and also wants the record to show that they are not investors in the wind power project.

Ron Price brought up his request for clarification on the Sibley Rd. and two others, which he asked for a month ago. He wanted to register his frustration, and feels that any other party would have gotten a quicker response.

SCHOOL DIRECTOR: Freedom’s new school director, Kathy Cunningham, reported that she has begun her term on the School Board at an awkward time. Usually a term runs July to July, and new members are given an orientation session.
This year each town has to send their registrar of voters to the public hearing on May 28, so that citizens can vote on each article. She can’t predict how the attendance will be.
A few positions have been cut, but they tried to move people into other jobs instead of letting them go. Everyone seems to “adore” the new Superintendent of Schools. Kathy went to a Voc School budget meeting. She has inherited a position on the personnel committee from Freedom’s previous director.
Glen Bridges expressed appreciation to Kathy for taking on the position.

CORRESPONDENCE:
Bill Kelly has requested information from old Town reports regarding roads closed for maintenance only. He asked for the 1956 Town Clerk’s record/minutes of the annual Town meeting, and the articles from 1956 and 1975 regarding votes on roads.

TOWN OFFICERS:
Jay Guber, CEO, reported that Al Hodgekins hasn’t yet called Clint about rating the gantry, but has agreed to do the job.
Jay attended the Appeals Board hearing on May 1; the appeal was denied.
Dave Schofield will be filling in for Jay until Sunday.
Prentice Grassi has applied for a permit for a hoop house. The Planning Board will schedule a special meeting to discuss the Village Farm’s plan to build a bunk house, which will house apprentices learning organic farming methods.
No site visit has been scheduled yet for the Skidgel property with Gordon Fuller.
Jay attended a CEO meeting in Skowhegan.
The Town’s water test came back OK; Jim Waterman has the results. We’ll need a follow-up test in one month.
Jay mentioned that he gets a discount on lab testing, and can get water tests done for the Town for less money.

TREASURER’S REPORT:
Erna’s written report quoted the payroll for the week of May 5 was $3059.19, including Jay Guber’s January to March salary. The Accounts Payable warrant was $1902.90, including the BMV, hunting and fishing and dog licenses. Following those payments the checkbook balance was $46,712.71.
Payroll this week is $1290.57. The checkbook balance after payroll this week is $52,101.81.
The Accounts Payable warrant is $44,079.70, including the school payment. Without the school payment, it would be $12,981.70.
Erna asked the Selectmen to address several issues:
1. Vote whether or not to pay payroll every Monday night with one Selectman’s signature.
2. Vote for Erna to pay state reports every other week.
3. Review the mileage amounts for the new ACO.

PUBLIC WORKS:
Clint reported that he got a quote of $28,000 for paving with asphalt. This would include the end of Mitchell at #137, the bottom of Deer Hill Road on Mitchell, both ends of the Town House Rd., and a macadam pad for the salt & sand pile. 530 ft. of Rollins Road has been staked out for repair, which will cost $12,000 to build up and clean out the ditches. This will include fabric cloth, a 4-6 inch base, and surface. Clint would prefer using crushed rock out of Roger Littlefield’s pit.
A long discussion followed about how to repair the roads. Clint would like his employees to earn more than state wages. A loader operator only gets $13.60 per hour, which Clint feels is not enough.
According to Ron, the Town voted for $20,000 for capital improvements in 2007, and another $20,000 in 2008. Clint checked into the price of asphalt; Lane charges $77/ton, and Pike 56/ton. Our Town job is too small to interest Pike. Clint pointed out that putting out jobs “to bid” is not mandated by any law.
Ron moved to accept the paving quote to do the jobs on the roads, with the exception of a sand and salt pad. Tim seconded, and the motion carried.
Clint would like to get started as soon as possible. Ron said we can borrow from the Capital Improvement fund. Carol noted that we need written permission to use the pit on Rollins Road.
Brush cutting has started. Clint will get a price for renting a chipper. It costs under $90 per hour to haul chips away. Clint would like his employees to be paid more than $12/hour for brushing. Ron replied that the Town voted to pay State wages, but we could pay more for the use of their chain saws. Tim moved to increase the chain saw rental by $2/hour. Ron seconded, and motion carried.

OLD BUSINESS:
Mark Boudreau’s swamp land has not yet been inspected. The cemeteries are all cleaned up. Carol asked if the Town can clean out a 12’ x 14’ family plot (across from Mildred Richardson) on Greeley Road. It is called the Bradstreet cemetery, but it is hard to find any stones. Clint said there is another family plot on Raven Road, but the landowner won’t allow access.
Discussion followed about the Hutchins Cemetery. A wet place needs to be opened up and drained on that road. The Hutchins account can be used to cover the work. Ron moved, seconded by Tim, to send Clint to solve the Hutchins access problem. Motion carried, with Carol recusing herself. Tim moved to hire Clint and his bulldozer. Ron seconded, and motion passed, with Carol recusing herself.

NEW BUSINESS:

Tim expressed thanks and appreciation on behalf of the Town to Jon Willette for all the work he has done. He cleaned up around the Town office, repaired ruts, and removed the winter sand. He also cleaned out and cut brush in cemeteries. All of this was on a volunteer basis. Thank you very much, Jon.

Keisha Whitman wants to be on the Rec Committee, according to Scott Holmes.
Kathy Bryant has put in over 100 hours of volunteer work helping Carol with the property tax records. Thank you for all your work, Kathy.
Land evaluation is being raised from $450 to $600 per acre, waterfront from $250 to $300 per foot, as advised by John Carroll, ME State Assessor. Waterfront footage beyond 150’ will remain at $25. Waterfront values are low according to records of recent real estate sales.
The 2 acre base lot will now be $10,000, with $3000 for a septic system, and $3000 for a drilled well. This is based on recent real estate sales, and advice from John Carroll. Last year the total evaluation for land and buildings was $33,200.619. This year will be $35,478,415. This is still far below our State evaluation of $43 million. The State evaluation is the figure used for Freedom’s school and county tax.
Ron explained that we do not have to follow State guidelines, but will have to raise extra monies to make up for reimbursements that the State will not provide. Dave Ledew told Ron that the only reimbursements the State withholds are for Tree Growth.
Carol reviewed three supplemental tax bills for Tree Growth Penalties that are being sent out, and one abatement.
Appointment papers were signed for Rec Committee volunteers Clint & Christine Spaulding, Scott Holmes, Keisha Whitman, and Cindy Abbott.
There is a meeting in Liberty on May 15 at 2 PM to discuss FEMA money for damage from the rain storm.
Clint asked for clarification about leveling a location at the old dump for brown goods day. Ron replied that he can choose the best area to level at the old dump site. Ron moved, seconded by Tim, to hire Clint’s bulldozer. Motion carried.
A motion by Tim to sign the Accounts Payable warrant of $44079.70, seconded by Carol, carried. Carol moved, seconded by Tim, to sign the payroll of $1290.57. Passed. Carol moved to pay the payroll with one Selectman’s signature (as Erna requested). Ron seconded, and motion carried.
The school sponsored Work Fare was discussed. Selectmen should vote to approve any community service projects, and no town-owned power equipment can be used by students for insurance reasons. They can, however, use their own equipment.

Pursuant to 1MRSA 405(6), the Selectmen went into executive session to discuss a personnel matter. The session ended 10 minutes later, with no decisions or vote necessary.

Meeting was adjourned at 9:16 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Glen S. Bridges, Secretary

APPROVED MINUTES/Freedom Selectmen’s Meeting
April 30, 2008

Meeting called to order at 6:00 PM by Chairman Ron Price. Present were Selectmen Tim Biggs, Carol Richardson, and Ron Price. Also present were Jay Guber (CEO), Dave Scho- field (Plumb. Inspector), Erna Keller (Treasurer), Arthur Richardson, Thelma Ledden, Betty Sienkiewicz, Hilary Fleming (Comp Plan Cmte.), Tom Fleming, Glen Bridges (Secretary), Dave Bridges, Marion Bowers (Health Officer), and Sallyann Hadyniak.

CORRESPONDENCE: A new recyclery, Earth Friendly, will be accepting computers, batteries, etc., in Waterville on May 2.
A letter was received regarding the veteran’s memorial bench. Ron will arrange pick-up.
Letter from Lana Clough, head of CEO training & certification at the State Planning Office, wrote inform town that Jay Guber is not certified to enforce land use ordinances. Although we don’t have any land use ordinances, Jay will satisfy the requirement by using Dave Schofield as an assistant, who is certified. Eventually Jay will get certified. Dave should be deputized.
FEMA grant extension received, which involves mitigation from the ME Emergency Management hazard mitigation plan. This could help with the Sandy Pond dam project, but won’t pay for engineering plans or feasibility studies.
Dave Schofield has to file before May 30 for the Small Community Grant program; he is working on it.
Carol completed General Assistance reports from 2004-2008. Our share of reimbursement was $981.71.

CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER:
Jay Guber reported that he received approval from DEP for Drew Fales building project. Drew received a permit-by-rule for the Essential Habitat Rules (eagle nest).
Jay has received 16 hours training in the International Residential Building Code Inspection program.
Jay knows an engineer, Al Hodgekins, who will rate the gantry for $300.
Jay asked for the Town’s patience with his tree growth plan; his forester is ill.
The Planning Board approved Tim Biggs’ project.
Jay attended, with Planning Board members, a workshop on regulating communication towers and wind turbines, and was given a copy of Benton’s new land use ordinance.
He received a phone call from Cross Roads Wireless, about locating three 190’ wireless internet towers in Freedom.
Jay addressed Carol Richardson, to inquire if she had talked about replacing the CEO with Don Harriman. Carol replied that she wasn’t interested in replacing Jay, but just that Harriman had called and asked to be considered.
On 4/29, Jay met with DEP at Soisson’s camp to look at filling of wetlands and significant wildlife habitat. The land owner needs to have the wetlands measured and submitted to the Town in writing.
Lastly, Jay would like very much to be paid.

TREASURER: Ron asked Erna how much money the Town has taken in since January, and Erna produced a figure of $181,469.10. She added that 29-30% of the cemetery funds have been spent, mainly on flags. 60% of regular trash pick-up funds for Sullivans has been spent, not including off-set by future trash sticker sales. The April school payment has been made.

Last week’s payroll was $1,537.27. The A/P warrant was $289 for the BMV, leaving a checkbook balance of $42,143.03.

Ron Price moved, seconded by Tim, to sign the payroll warrant of $1929.37. Motion carried. Ron moved, seconded by Tim, to sign the two vendor’s warrants (accounts payable) of $13,310.36, including the Marden, Dubord bill, and $500, the latter being Historical Society’s money to transfer to their capital improvement account. The checkbook balance after bills are paid is $45,655.42.

A check for $981.71 for welfare reimbursement was received, and a check for $39.75 for ME Withholding/Unemployment Fund. Our ACO needs to pay a membership fee of $35 to the Maine Animal Control Assoc.

Erna asked how much we are paying Kathy Bryant for office work she is doing for Carol; Carol replied that Kathy is volunteering.

Erna added that the determination about the salary year (March>April or Jan>Dec) needs to be corrected. Ron called Craig Costello about this. This Town fiscal year is Jan 1 to Dec 31. Salaries follow the fiscal year, and the Town votes to pay 3/12 of the budget to cover the period of Jan through March.

PUBLIC WORKS: Ron and Clint Spaulding drove the Town roads and did an inventory. They flagged washed out culverts, determined that 500’ of Greeley needs repair, and 500-1000’ of Smithton, and Rollins Road needs work. A grader has been rented, and the Town garage, trucks and equipment have been cleaned. Two culverts need to be replaced on Greeley, one each on Burnham Hill, Mitchell, and Bryant Roads. A guard rail needs to be replaced on the bridge on Mitchell Rd. “Trouble spots” need to be paved at the intersection of #137 and Mitchell, 100’ at the bottom of Deer Hill Rd., and the ends of Townhouse Rd. The end of Greeley needs an apron.
The stretch of Stevens Rd. that curves so close to the stream needs to be fixed. On top of all that, trimming needs to be done. We have $20,000 raised at the 2006 Town Meeting for capital improvement, the surplus account, and the URIP funds which should be used for summer roads.
A discussion followed about exactly where the line is between Freedom and Montville at Jeff Richardson’s house, because the road washed out. Ron suggested meeting with Montville Selectmen to agree on how to divide the maintenance. The Select Board also needs to meet with Clint to determine how much road work Freedom can afford to do.

OLD BUSINESS: The Town oil burners have all (3) been cleaned, and kerosene filled. Filters will be changed.
Ballots for the June vote need to be written.
The Hutchins Cemetery needs repair. Carol thinks gravel and labor should be paid for by the Cemetery Committee.
The Town needs another vault, or some kind of safe storage for the Town’s valuable papers.
Near the Hagers, CMP drilled a hole through a culvert, blocking it up and causing diverted water to flood their land. Carol will call CMP.

John Carroll, from the State Property Tax Division, spent time in the Town Office going over our tax cards. Freedom is taxing property at 63% of the state evaluation, but the State wants towns to be up to 85%. Land, he said, is selling here for $15,000 per acre and should be evaluated at $650, and water frontage should go up. Tim said that $15,000/acre may be true for small parcels, but not larger acreage. Ron pointed out that remodeled older homes have been valued by Jackie Robbins at half their market value. Freedom is evaluated by the State at $33 million now, and will be $43 million for 2008. We should to be taxing at 87% of market value in order to get 100% of State reimbursements, but our assessors make that decision, not the State.
Lynn Hadyniak never did complete the process of appealing the State evaluation, and now we are past the deadline.

The paperwork needs to be completed to sell the Stevens Road property.
The Mark Boudreau property needs to be inspected for wetlands and a camp on the land.
Another camp, on Cellar Kitchen Rd., owned by Pat Brown, needs to be inspected.
Gordon Fuller brought in maps and other information resulting from the EPA clean-up of the Skidgel property. He is willing to accompany Jay onto that property. Ron will contact Mildred Skidgel about allowing trespass now.

Tim moved, seconded by Carol, to authorize Jay to hire the engineer to rate the gantry for $300. Motion carried.

NEW BUSINESS: Carol will call Jon Willette to see about digging up the Town’s well for repairs. The Town parking lot has been swept, and now needs the use of a wheelbarrow to finish the job.
Ron moved, seconded by Tim, to also hire Jon Willette to keep the cemeteries mowed. Motion carried.
Bookkeeping for the 2005 audit is nearly finished.

Residents are calling to inquire about brown goods pick-up. Carol thinks that the Town voted to have house to house pick-up every other year. Tim said that is too expensive, that it cost $9600 the last time, and would be even more now. It only cost $2000 to have the dumpsters at the Town office. A long discussion followed about the best way to do this for the least money, but no suggested compromise was settled. Estimates will be requested.

Ron Price moved to go into executive session according to MRSA 405(6) to discuss a personnel issue. Tim seconded; motion passed. Selectmen ended executive session after 10 minutes; no decisions were made.

Next Selectmen’s meeting will be May 14, 2008 at 6 PM.
Assessors will meet Monday, May 5th , 2008 at 7 PM.
The third appeal of the windmill turbines will be heard by the Appeals Board in the church basement, May 1, 2008 at 7 PM.

Tim moved to adjourn, seconded by Carol. Motion passed.
Meeting adjourned at 8:35 PM.

Respectfully submitted,
Glen S. Bridges, Secrerary

APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM SELECTMEN’S MEETING
APRIL 16, 2008

Meeting was called to order at 6:02 PM by Chairman Ron Price. Present: Ron Price (Chair), Tim Biggs (Selectman), Carol Richardson (Selectman), Jim Waterman (Fire Chief), Jay Guber (Code Enforcement Officer), Marion Bowers (Health Officer), Dave Bridges, Thressa Abbot, Francis Walker, Hilary & Tom Fleming, Arthur Richardson, Thelma Ledden, Glen Bridges (Secretary), Betty Sienkiewicz, Sallyann Hadyniak.

REVIEW MINUTES:
Minutes from April 2, 2008 were accepted as amended.

CITIZEN’S ISSUES:
Tom Fleming inquired about this spring’s brown goods plans. It’s on agenda for tonight. Last year it was on Memorial Day.

Francis Walker explained the history of the Freedom web site. The minutes cannot be put on until she receives them. She is trying to devise a way for the Planning Board to put their minutes on the website. In managing the website, Francis tries to be neutral on issues, and strongly recommends that other people should not be permitted to “tinker” with the site.

TOWN OFFICERS:
Our new animal control officer is Heidi Blood, at 342-4098 or her cell, 322-3237. Tina Freeman has returned all her equipment provided by the town, except one crate that Heidi can pick up at her house. Tim moved that the ACO may use any equipment the town owns, providing the town with a list of such equipment. Carol seconded, passed.

CEO Jay Guber reported that today was the first day of the International Code Enforcement Inspection workshop.
He has worked with Bill Kelley on letters in response to another appeal of the windmill project building permit.
Tomorrow is an inspection with the Planning Board of the Tim Biggs camp for a proposed porch. The Biggs lot is one of only 3 non-conforming lots in Freedom.
Two permits have been applied for: a garage on Ayer Ridge Rd., and a storage shed on the North Palermo Road.

FIRE CHIEF Jim Waterman explained the water test problems were due to an inspection of the fire station by MMA insurance inspector Ann Schneider, and the necessity of a yearly water test. The well has been treated with bleach. A rubber ring on the well has shifted about 1 _ “ and is allowing ground water to seep in. The well needs to be dug up and either sleeved or welded.
The #4 big tanker has developed more leaks and a crack in the tank. A grant for $193,000 has been applied for, and we should hear a response by summer.
The idea of a second fire station should be dropped, because of the problems of security, the price of oil, and etc.
Jim submitted an MMA equipment list to Tim Biggs.
The fire department will burn grass for residents. Fire permits are available after 5 PM on weekdays, and on weekend during the daytime from Jim at his house. People can call Jim, Dave Bennett, Herb Abbott, or Craig Overlock.
Jim will help Jake Kennedy to raze his burned building. It can be moved and burned, or perhaps burned in place.
Jim is trying to get the 3 town oil burners cleaned & serviced. Carol will call Nelson, Freedom’s oil company, to schedule service.
Carol asked if 911 lane name & numbers should be assigned for Jensens, and 2 new lots on Greeley Road. Jim will look into it.

ROAD COMMISSIONER: Clint is not present, but we are still getting complaints on potholes, and need cold patch repairs. A plow truck damaged about 5’ of Jeff Richardson’s stone wall. Tim moved, seconded by Carol, to pay for repairs to the stone wall.. Passed.

TOWN CLERK: Cindy had a laptop from ME state surplus, but it was rejected after being inspected by Ryan, Freedom’s computer technician. A new laptop with adequate memory would cost the town about $800. Carol moved that the town should buy a laptop, Tim seconded, and passed.
Jim Waterman has been having trouble with e-mails getting delivered, and Ron explained that because of security, the FD computer is no longer hooked up with the town system.

HEALTH NURSE: The flu is decreasing in Maine, and Marion brought in information on symptoms and care that will be put on the bulletin board. Also, she explained a recall on contaminated breakfast cereals made by Malt O Meal from 3/18/08 to 4/8/08.

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT DIRECTOR: Craig Overlock may want to be reappointed.

TOWN BOARDS:
Budget Committee: Carol moved to reappoint Brian Mitchell, and to appoint Erna Keller to the Budget Committee, seconded by Ron & passed. Tim Biggs moved to reappoint Audrey Williams, seconded by Carol and passed. Betty Sienkiewicz resigned.

Overseers of the Poor: Carol Richardson was appointed General Assistance Director, with Ron Price as alternate (or assistant), and Tim Biggs for General Assistance appeals.

Cemetery Committee: A resident has shown interest in working on the cemeteries in town. Tim Biggs moved to ask Clint to repair and make passable the road to the Hutchins Cemetery, and bill the Hutchins account. Ron seconded, passed, with Carol abstaining.

Comprehensive Plan Committee: Hilary was very pleased with the results of the Pot Luck Supper in attracting public input to the comprehensive planning process. She’s been invited to tour Avian Haven. Tim moved to accept and pay a bill for the use of the church basement for $30, seconded and passed.

OLD BUSINESS: The appeal of the state evaluation has not yet been received from Lynn Hadyniak.The process to sell the Stevens Road property needs to be completed; it was agreed to do that Saturday morning, April 19.
Jay Guber thinks that barriers need to be placed at the end of the Stevens Road where the road is dangerously close to the stream.
We need an engineer to rate the Gantry. Jay volunteered to get this taken care of.
On the issue of swamp land tax designation, Carol thinks that Nancy Bailey-Farrar is getting the wetland evaluation; Mark Boudreau has a camp on his land.
Jay mentioned a camp on a gated road on the Cellar Kitchen Rd. that may not be getting taxed.

NEW BUSINESS:
Jay Guber needs to be sworn in by the Town Clerk.
Four dogs still need to be licensed.
On the question of salaries, according to MMA they run from April to March. Ron moved to pay salaries from April 1 to March 31 of every year. Carol seconded. Passed.
The veteran’s benches from Cole Transportation need to be picked up in Bangor. Ron will look into this.
Unicell said we need to upgrade town phones so they will be 911 compatible. Ron moved, seconded by Tim, to upgrade phones. Passed.
Cindy wants to hire someone to pick up a free load of compost for the town office flower gardens. So moved by Carol, seconded by Tim, and passed.
Cindy needs brooms for someone to sweep the town office parking lot. Tim moved to buy 2 brooms, seconded by Carol. Passed.
Cindy would like someone to shovel snow from the town office entrance. Tim moved to table, seconded by Ron, and passed.
Ron Price suggested the Select Board adopt a policy regarding dealing with the press, because of a story that he felt was inaccurate. Following a long discussion, no solution was reached, except to be discreet, and for the Selectmen to keep the subject on the agenda.
Regarding the 2005 audit, Carol will call the auditor tomorrow.

TREASURER’S REPORT:
Last week payroll was $1325.23, with payment to BMV for $560. After these deductions, checkbook balance was $47,106.03.
This week the checkbook balance is $48, 646.50, after payroll of $1169.44.
The accounts payable warrant is $13,962.58. If paid in full, checkbook balance will be $34,683.92.
Credit received for $25.63 from Advantage Gases & Tools, PERC’s fee is going up to $68.5 per ton, and Sullivan’s price for a dumpster is going up $5.00.
Discussion followed about the Marden DuBord bill for $4277.43. Lynn was negotiating with Alton Stevens about that. Ron Price moved to table the Stevens bill and pay the balance of the warrant of $9685.28. Passed.

Ron removed himself from the Selectmen’s table to speak as a citizen. He read a letter [attached] asking the selectmen to establish the status of the last 1000’ above the Sibley Road, the Beaver Hill Road, and the Deer Hill Road to re-affirm each road as an unmaintained public way, with rights of landowners to run electric lines to their property.


Ron submitted his letter along with supporting documentation [attached]. He also
submitted, for town records, Lane Gray’s survey report that goes back into the history of the access road to his property on Beaver Ridge before the town was incorporated.
Tim responded that while it is apparent from old Town reports that the roads were closed for maintenance only, he is hesitant to make a declaration that might open a “can of worms”, provoke a lawsuit, and incur legal expenses. He is inclined to let former Town reports stand on their own.
Sallyann Hadyniak argued that the Beaver Ridge road is abandoned, and that she has letters from Red Mitchell confirming that. Carol pointed out that Red Mitchell cannot overrule an article that the town voted on “now and forever”, as stated in the original article. She added that there are other roads in town like this, and there has never been any enforcement.
Jay Guber thought this could be cleared up quickly by Bill Kelly; that the Town did vote for $25,000 to pay for legal fees. He suggested that Bill Kelly look at all the supporting documentation and give his opinion.
Carol moved that Tim should contact Bill Kelly, and get all the material to him. Seconded by Tim, and passed, with Ron recusing himself from voting. Tim added that we will deal with this at the next Selectmen’s meeting.

The next Selectmen’s meeting will be April 30, 2008 at 6PM.

Meeting adjourned at 9:05 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Glen S. Bridges, Secretary

Attached:
Letter to Select Board from Ron Price
Letter to Town from lawyer John Hamer
Copy of page from 1955 Town Report
Copy of page from 1975 Town Report

On file at Town Office:
Lane Gray survey report on Sibley Road

APPROVED MINUTES/Freedom Selectmen’s Meeting
April 2, 2008

Meeting was called to order at 6PM by Ron Price. Present were Ron Price (Selectman, 2007 Chair), Tim Biggs (Selectman), Carol Richardson (Selectman), Clint Spaulding (2007 Road Commissioner), Erna Keller (Treasurer), Cindy Abbott (Town Clerk, Tax Collector), Dave Bridges, Jeff Keating, Craig Crosby (Morning Sentinel newspaper), Sally Ann Hadyniak, and Glen Bridges (Secretary).

During review of minutes, the following motions by Tim Biggs passed:
The February 20, 2008 minutes were accepted with corrections, to be placed on file.
Minutes from March 5, and recessed until March 7 were accepted as read.
The March 19 minutes accepted with corrections and placed on file.

CITIZEN’S ISSUES & QUESTIONS:
Sally Ann Hadyniak requested copies of minutes to review. Dave Bridges suggested that only approved minutes are available to the public. The Secretary said she has made a study of the legalities of minutes due to being secretary for two organizations, and only the Select Board may have input during a review of minutes, and changes are described as “errors or omissions”. Only the Secretary may take minutes (or a deputy), and minutes are signed by the Secretary in order to be legal town records. Clarifications made by citizens of their own part in discussions could be part of the next meeting’s minutes, when an issue can be raised again. It was suggested that minutes could be read aloud, or perhaps copies provided just to read along with. Unapproved minutes are available in the book on the Town Clerk’s counter as soon as they are ready.

Sally Ann passed out an Republican Journal article about Freedom’s town meeting to Selectmen and a couple of other people, asking about the question of road work not being put out to bid. Ron pointed out that the article had repeated an excess of false information, and the fact is that the Selectmen do have the right to hire work done as long as there is money in the account.

Sally Ann inquired what happened to the Veteran’s Memorial bench that was going to be installed. Clint replied that Marjorie Reynolds had been working on that with Cole Transportation.

EXECUTIVE SESSEION:
Ron Price moved, in accordance with 1 MRSA 4056, to go into executive session. Tim Biggs seconded. Motion carried. Executive session lasted eight minutes, during which correspondence from the town attorney was discussed, with no action or decision required.

SELECT BOARD ISSUES:
Carol Richardson nominated Ron Price for Chair of the Board of Selectmen, Tim seconded. Passed.

Tim moved to continue holding Selectmen’s meetings every other Wednesday beginning April 2, 2008 at 6 PM at the town office. Ron seconded. Passed.

Tim moved to allow the Treasurer to sign BMV (Bureau of Motor Vehicle) checks and send them out on her own. Carol seconded. Carried.



CORRESPONDENCE:
Discussion followed about opening town mail, going back to a complaint of mail alleged to be missing. Erna pointed out that most bills come in addressed to Town of Freedom, so Cindy must open those. Ron moved that any mail addressed to Selectmen should be stamped as received, logged in, and left unopened for Selectmen. Motion seconded and carried. Letters were received from Cathy Cunningham and Dave Bridges volunteering for town Boards.

TOWN BOARD AND COMMITTEE POSITIONS:
Cindy has posted available positions. The Selectmen have no 2008 policy yet for appointments.

1. Carol moved to appoint Heidi Blood for Animal Control Officer. Seconded by Tim. Passed.
2. Carol moved to appoint Tina Freeman and Glen Bridges, who both volunteered, to the Budget Committee. Seconded by Ron and passed.
3. Carol Richardson moved to appoint Dave Bridges to the Appeals Board. Tim suggested waiting to see if Lissa Widdoff wants to be re-appointed before appointing Dave Bridges. It was agreed to appoint Dave as soon as possible after hearing from L. Widdoff, because the Chair wants to call a meeting.
4. Carol Richardson moved to appoint Cathy Cunningham as the School Board Director. Tim seconded. Passed.
5. Tim moved to appoint Clint Spaulding as Road Commissioner, seconded by Ron, and passed, with Carol recusing herself from voting, because of family relationship to Clint.
6. Tim moved to appoint Jay Guber as Code Enforcement Officer, seconded by Ron, passed.
7. Discussion of Emergency Management Director position followed. Tim suggested that if Jim Waterman has been doing the job, it should go to him. Tim will talk to Jim. Clint also suggested that Christine Spaulding would be willing to take the EMD job.
8. Tim moved to appoint Marion Bowers as Health Officer. Seconded and passed.
9. Tim moved to appoint Dave Schofield as Licensed Plumbing Inspector, seconded and passed.

Ron would like to wait until volunteers for the Recreation Committee come forward to make appointments; two citizens have expressed interest. Clint asked if someone could be asked to resign again from the Rec. committee like his wife once was; he was assured that would not happen again.

Carol Richardson thinks that a Planning Board Member cannot also be on the Comprehensive Planning Committee, but it was pointed out that both the PB and the CPC are working closely together.

TREASURER’S REPORT:
Payroll warrant is $1937.59, includes ballot clerks.
Accounts Payable warrant is $42,112.81, including April’s school payment and $1500 to Jackie Robbins, with $4277.43 to be subtracted. Tim moved to pay April’s school payment of $31,098 and $1500 owed to Jackie Robbins for her 2007 work. Tim also moved that payment of $4277.43 to Marden, DuBord, Bernier & Stevens should be withheld until clarified. Motion seconded by Ron and passed. Lynn Hadyniak (2007 Selectman) has drafted a letter to the aforementioned law firm.

Erna asked if town salaries are paid on a yearly basis, or a fiscal year basis—from March to April, or from December to January. Ron said salaries are paid from Jan. to Dec., and then 3/12 of last years budget until March. Carol thought it is yearly. Ron and Carol will together call MMA on this to get a definitive answer for Erna.

TOWN CLERK, TAX COLLECTOR:
Cindy gave reports on tax collection to the Selectmen for Jan., Feb., and March, along with a quarterly report for cash receipts. Outstanding taxes for 2006 are $27, 038; for 2007 are $125,569, and for personal property are $10,000.

ROAD COMMISSIONER: Clint said that we need to talk to Delta Ambulance service to convince them that they must cross over rough spring roads to reach people in need.

We need plow parts for reconditioning the 1997 truck that will come to $2000-$2500, not including labor. Ron thought labor might come to $1000. Tim moved, seconded by Carol, to proceed with parts and labor to recondition the plow. Motion passed.

Ron asked Clint what he is planning to do about the Rollins Rd and potholes at the end of the Mitchell Rd. Clint replied that he would grade Rollins, and patch potholes on Mitchell. Other roads in poor condition were discussed: Smithton, Clark, and Townhouse.

TOWN BOARDS:
The Comprehensive Plan Committee will meet with the Planning Board April 3, tomorrow.

Cemetery Committee: Clint said that an elderly man in Albion, who is in a wheel chair, has been trying to gain access to the Hutchins Cemetery. The access road is blocked with dumped material, and cars. The selectmen authorized Clint to speak to the resident who is blocking the road and ask him to clear the way. Following that, Clint is authorized to clear the road blockage. Tim suggested that if this approach is not successful, a follow-up letter be sent by certified mail. Cindy mentioned that this should be done by Memorial Day.

OLD BUSINESS:

Carol Richardson moved to put the Keating petition as a referendum question on the June school budget election ballot. Tim seconded. Ron Price read aloud the letter from Bill Kelley giving legal guidance to the town in this matter. [Letter attached].

Ron, removing himself from the Selectmen’s table and speaking as a citizen, said that the Town is being asked to repeat something that they already voted on, and that there are many reasons why this ordinance should remain repealed. Any ordinary citizen who wanted to start a business would have to hire a lawyer to get through the process of getting a permit. We do need an ordinance, he said, but not this one. The Town also needs the windmills, and CES has spent a good deal of money, expecting the project to be up and running by September.

Carol said she doesn’t think Freedom needs a 49 page ordinance, while Tim see this petition as another attempt to delay and litigate the project.

Sally Ann responded that she didn’t care at all if the windmills go up or not, and that her only concern is the water pumping project. Ron explained that the State regulates water pumping, and that David Pottle offered to cut the gallons pumped by half.

Motion on petition passed. Ron Price recused himself.

Lynn Hadyniak will forward a letter to Tim that she has been working on to appeal the State evaluation. She also has a General Assistance form to give to Ron. She has been asked for her key to the office, which Carol needs.

The Stevens Road property has to be put out to bid. Tim suggested putting a minimum on it.

Regarding inspecting swamp land, Carol said that Nancy Bailey-Farrar always used to be taxed for swampland for the portion of her property around Taylor Pond.

Regarding town books, Carol reported that the auditor has found $157,000 off in the 2005 audit that was budgeted, but never approved by the Town. This same error continued on for four years, amounting to $90,000 in 2004, $187,000 in 2005, and $167,000 in 2006. The auditor has accounted for all but $157,000. MMA advises that the town should re-visit these budgets and vote again. Two towns in similar situations have had to send out new tax bills. “The Town is in a bad state, and now we know why. For the last several years, not enough money was raised and appropriated”, Carol said.

Carol suggests that the Assessors review the taxes on land, raise the evaluations on land and use a formula for base lots of $10,000 each, with $3000 each for septic system and well. She also thinks a review will find cases where there are 3 dwellings on one base lot, and only being charged for one base lot instead of 3.

Carol reviewed the origin of the cemetery accounts, and why they must be kept separate. Black Hills Energy fund was donated to support the Hutchins cemetery with its interest only.

Carol asked if the town would purchase a “Quick Books” program for her, so she can use the program to help Craig Costello with the audits. It is difficult for Erna to keep the books properly with no beginning balance figure. Ron moved to buy “Quick Books Pro” for $199.99 for Carol, seconded and passed.

Carol raised the issue of Avian Haven requesting an abatement; Ron replied that the problem is that the property is owned by a trust, not by Avian Haven. Further discussion will take place at the Assessor’s meeting, set for Friday morning, April 4, 2008 at 9:30 AM at the Town office.

Carol brought up the problem of someone with no medical background challenging a voter’s absentee ballot. Only a doctor can determine mental capacity. Ron assured Carol that this would never happen again, and Tim apologized to Carol on behalf of the Town.

The next Board of Selectmen’s meeting will be April 16, 2008 at 6:00 PM at the Town office.

Meeting adjourned at 9:30 PM.

Respectfully submitted,


Glen Bridges, Secretary

Attached: Letter from Bill Kelley.

APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM SELECTMEN’S MEETING
MARCH 19, 2008

Meeting called to order at 5 PM. Ron moved to go into executive session with Lawyer Bill Kelley, Tim seconded, motion carried. Executive session ended at 6:08.

Present: Ron Price (Chair), Tim Biggs (Selectman), Hilary Fleming, Tom Fleming, Sally Ann Hadyniak, Marion Bowers, Steve Shaw, David Bridges, Clint Spaulding (Road Commissioner), Christopher Spaulding, Erna Keller (Treasurer), Jay Guber (CEO), Ingrid Robitaille, Roland Robitaille Jr., Heather & Derek Higgins, Scott Holmes, Cindy Abbott, Thressa Abbott, Glen Bridges (Secretary).

CITIZEN’S ISSUES: Sally Ann questioned the procedure for going into executive session, and the meeting time change from 6 PM to 5PM. Ron replied that they followed the proper procedure, and the time change was posted for one day.

Residents on the Rollins Road reported that the road condition is deteriorating, with deep ruts, and is becoming impassable by certain vehicles, which have to park at Flemings. They asked if the Selectmen are aware of the problem, and if there is a plan to repair it. Clint Spaulding replied that it will be fixed this summer; to fix it now would be a waste of money. The plan is to rebuild about 500 feet; there are 2-3 spots that are very bad.

Marion Bowers said the same problems are happening on the Townhouse Road. Wood hauling (on a posted road) is contributing to that, according to Clint.

A general discussion followed about the growing cost of road maintenance. It now costs $80,000 per mile to re-build gravel roads. Ron said we have overspent our road budget due to this winter’s weather; that to fix all the town’s roads could cost a couple of hundred thousand dollars. Clint said gravel is now $7 per yard. The Rollins Rd. work will probably cost $25,000.

Also, there is a huge pothole at the Palermo Rd. end of the Greeley Road that needs to be more clearly marked to warn drivers that it is coming up.

Ron pointed out that next year’s proposed budget for roads is $163,500, with another possible $30,000.

TREASURER’S REPORT:
Payroll is $1303.98
$900 insurance payment (for towing) has been received by the Town
The checkbook balance before Accounts Payable Warrant is $82321.91.
Accounts Payable is $14,466.96.

As of today, account balances are as follows:
Fire Dept. Account $50,209.97
Town Capital Account $84,772.07
Town Park Account $ 1,205.19
Smithton Cemetery $ 3,542.93
Historical society $ 5,166.94
Checking Account $82,321.91
Paving Account $20,000

CD Accounts are:
Thurston Perpetual Care $5,038.49
Town of Freedom $9,270.73
Ball field Improvement $ 384.76

ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER: Tina Freeman has resigned because of vehicle insurance problems, so we need an ACO.

CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER:
Two workshops are coming up that Jay is planning to attend, one on March 12 on home energy efficiency in Skowhegan, and another on erosion and sediment control at the DOT in Augusta.

An application form for road improvement for the Beaver Ridge project has been received and approved by DEP for a single ditched version as requested.

Jay would like to attend the International Code Enforcing Seminar on April 16 & 17 for $100. Another workshop is on vernal pools on April 24 in Brunswick.

Jay met with town attorney Bill Kelley regarding his reply to Rudman & Winchell about the Beaver Ridge permit. Jay needs do re-write the protocol.

Jay wants to add a sentence to the building permit application, as follows: “PLEASE NOTE This permit is approved on the basis of information provided by the applicant in the record regarding his ownership of the property and the boundary location. The applicant has the burden of ensuring that he has a legal right to the use of the property and that he is measuring required setbacks from the legal boundary lines of the lot. The approval of this permit in no way relieves the applicant of this burden. Nor does the permit approval constitute a resolution in favor of the applicant regarding property boundaries, ownership or similar title issues. The permit holder would be well-advised to resolve any such title problems before expending money in reliance on this permit.”

Regarding Skidgel’s, Jay would like approval to proceed with a court order to enable him to do his job on that property. Tim explained why we need to hold off on that. For the record, Ron talked to Mildred Skidgel. She is not working there for the time being, and when asked to reverse her “no trespass” letter, she agreed, and asked Ron to remind her if she didn’t get to it quickly enough. She is focused on illness in her family.

Tim moved to send Jay to the seminar on residential inspections; motion carried.

ROAD COMMISSIONER: Clint reported that Ann Schneider from MMA Casualty Pool (the town’s insurers) carried out an inspection of the town Garage, and advised we add on to it to achieve the necessary measurements. For insurance, the building is valued at $22,000, and measures about 35’ x 57’.

SCHOOL BOARD DIRECTOR: Clint knows of someone who is considering the position.

SOLID WASTE REPRESENTATIVE: Meredith Coffin volunteered. Ron Price moved, seconded by Tim, to appoint Meredith Coffin to the position. Motion passed.

CEMETERY COMMITTEE: The committee needs a couple of men to help with the physical labor.

COMPREHENSIVE PLAN COMMITTEE: The committee is pleased to have 4 new volunteers in the past few months. A potluck is planned for April 13 at the church.

OLD BUSINESS: Lynn is working on the appeal of the state evaluation, which was $43,000,000 for 2008.

NEW BUSINESS: Bill Kelley has agreed to represent the Town for all its legal needs.

Ron has submitted an appeal to the PUC’s fine for severing a telephone line on the Smithton Road.

The Town reports go to the printer tomorrow, March 20. There will be at least 100 copies available Monday or Tuesday, if not all of them.

Road sand: We should have enough now.

The 2005 audit is still in progress.

An employee evaluation needs to be done for our road commissioner.

The next Selectmen’s meeting is April 2, 2008 at 6 PM.

Tim moved to accept the warrant of $10, 189.53, after subtracting the bill of $4277 from Al Stevens. Seconded and passed. For the math, Tim used a new calculator that was presented to the Town as a gift from the Secretary. It worked swell.

Ron moved to sign the payroll warrant of $1303.98. Seconded and carried.

Both Selectmen signed the appointment papers of Meredith Coffin as Solid Waste Rep, Brian Mitchell (re-appointment)to the Budget Committee, Dana Canavan (re-appointment) to the Budget Committee, and Drew Fales (re-appointment) to the Planning Board.

Tim moved to sign the following Order of the Selectmen: “Any tax payment will be applied in chronological order of taxes due, except in the case of an abatement under consideration”.

Ron moved to sign the 2008 annual town warrant notice and instruct the town clerk to post the notice. Seconded by Tim, and passed.

CORRESPONDENCE: Used PCs are available to towns for $300 each. Monitors also.

John Piotti has announced the purchase of a 101 acre farm in Bowdoinham by the Maine Farmland Trust.

CMP is leasing street lights.

Freedom’s Emergency Action Plan for Sandy Pond Dam has been accepted by the State.

KVCOG is selling culverts.

WCAP has grant assistance available for 2 home improvement projects for older energy inefficient homes; deadline to apply is April 21, ’08.

Marion Bowers inquired about Bill Kelley’s hourly pay. Answer: $145 per hour.

Meeting adjourned at 7:37 PM.


Respectfully submitted,

Glen Bridges, Secretary

APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM SELECTMEN’S MEETING
MARCH 5, 2008

Meeting called to order at 6:03 PM.
Present: Ron Price, Select Board Chair. Also, Marion Bowers, Jim Waterman (Fire chief), Dave Bridges, Glen Bridges (Sec.), Scott Holmes, Keisha Whitman

Ron announced that with no other Selectmen present, no business meeting can take place.

Jim Waterman inquired about getting signatures on the Emergency Management Plan in the required time frame. Jim described the plan, answered questions, and gave it to Ron for signatures.

Jim also talked about the ’64 GMC being out of service and the need for a pumper tanker.

Ron recessed the meeting until Friday, March 7 at 6 pm.

MARCH 7, 2008

Chairman Ron Price called the meeting to order at 6:10 PM.
Present: Lynn Hadyniak (Selectman), Erna Keller (Treasurer), Jay Guber (CEO), SallyAnn Hadyniak, Dave Bridges, Glen Bridges (Secretary)

REVIEW MINUTES: Minutes from March 5 were reviewed, accepted, and to be combined with tonight’s minutes.
Previous minutes couldn’t be located, so will be tabled until next meeting.

TREASURER’S REPORT: Balance in checking account is $81,262.15 after deducting Accounts Payable totaling $51,972.06. Payroll totaled $2628.18.

CITIZEN’S ISSUES: None

CEO REPORT: Jay Guber reported that he wrote a letter to Rudman & Mitchell, lawyers for Keating and Bennett-Wade, dated Feb. 28, explaining how he arrived at his decision that CES had commenced substantial work on their project, and that their building permit is still valid. [Letter attached.]

Jay had a telephone conference with Bill Kelley. He will return from vacation March 17, and wants another letter, more concise addressing the same issue. Two documents have been received from CES about this, dated Jan. 29 and Feb. 12, 2008.

Jay asked that someone notify our “webmaster” that the Building Permit Ordinance on the website is not the correct ordinance that was adopted June 7, 2006.

A building permit has been issued for a frame for a new roof and porch to Isaiah Humphrey at 38 Albion Rd.

Jay feels strongly that if there is no further correspondence with the Skidgel sisters, that a court order should be procured so he can continue to do his job. Ron thinks that the Skidgels are still working at the site.

A letter has been received from Val Whittier (DEP) expressing concern about ditching on the road leading to the windmill project. She wants another design, with one side ditched on the downhill side, instead of ditching on both sides. She requested new design be sent by certified mail, return receipt requested. [Letter attached.]

HEALTH NURSE: Marion was not present, but Lynn announced that there are 3 strains of flu making the rounds in Maine, some very serious. These are not affected by the flu shot of last fall, but there are new flu shot available.

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT DIRECTOR: An e-mail was received from the Emergency Management Office requesting notification of any roof failures.

PLANNING BOARD: SallyAnn attended. A pot luck is being planned jointly with the Comprehensive Plan Committee to attract public input for the comprehensive planning process.
A letter was received from Bill Pickford requesting reappointment to the Planning Board. Lynn moved the reappointment of Bill Pickford to the Planning Board, seconded by Ron, and passed.

BUDGET COMMITTEE: One more meeting should complete the budget section of the annual town warrant.

RECREATION COMMITTEE: Money is still being collected for the ball field improvements, even though we have no Recreation Committee. Clayton Littlefield has requested an article on the town warrant to assure him that money will be available for his work. The Budget Committee has proposed the following Recreation Committee budget: $1250 operating expenses
$2000 improvements to the Freedom Recreation Park. Ron will check on that at next week’s budget meeting.
$150 utilities
$1500 Freedom Field Days

COMPREHENSIVE PLAN COMMITTEE: Will meet March 13 at 6 pm.

OLD BUSINESS: Lynn has started working on the appeal of the State evaluation.

NEW BUSINESS: Bill Kelley has been retained, and asked to represent the town in response to a letter received from another lawyer from Rudman & Mitchell representing Jeff Keating. Mr. Hamer’s letter asked the Selectmen to reconsider the 2nd Keating petition to re-adopt the commercial Development review ordinance, or they will seek a “declaratory judgment” in the court, or hold a special town meeting, or both. [Letter attached.]

Lynn asked how many lawsuits are now before the town, and they were listed:
1. Selectmen’s rejection of Keating petition.
2. Appeal on CES permit being valid according to work accomplished.
3. Appeal is still in court from April ’07 about use of road to windmill site.

Ron has filed the paperwork to appeal the PUC fine for a telephone line cut on Smithton Road.

The Town Report is in progress. Cindy’s reports are nearly complete. Several other reports are not in yet: Selectmen’s, School Director’s, Public Works, Superintendent of Schools, and Waldo Co. Emergency Management. The warrant is nearing completion. Cindy has arranged for printing.

The Roads department has another 500 yards of sand. A town truck went off the road 3 weeks ago, and had to be towed, which may cost the town a $250 deductible.

Hilary has finished the checkbook reconciliation for the 2005 audit; the auditor needs to be notified, and Erna would like him scheduled for a Tuesday so she can be there.

CORRESPONDENCE: Erna explained that we have 3 cell phone providers, and none of them work very well because of lack of signals. US Cellular wrote that they are upgrading their voicemail system, and as of March, their phones won’t work. We need to work this out, and have Clint Spaulding’s input. Put on next agenda.

Notification of a new posted road: South Freedom Rd. to Hussey Rd.

Ron moved, seconded by Lynn, to pay the Accounts Payable, with the exception of one bill from Al Stevens, and motion carried. Lynn moved to sign the payroll, Ron seconded, vote passed. Lynn is communicating with Stevens about his bill.

Discussion followed about a request for a membership in Sam’s Club for $35 with a limit of $500. This can save the town a good deal of money on office supplies, etc. Motion carried to apply for a new membership for $35, limit of $500, to be used by Town Clerk, Treasurer, and Road Commissioner.

The next Selectmen’s Meeting will be March 19, 2008 at 6 PM.

Meeting adjourned at 8:16 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Glen Bridges, Secretary

Attachments:
Letter from Mr. Hamer of Rudman & Mitchell to Selectmen
Letter from Jay Guber to Mr. Bearor of Rudman & Mitchell
Letter from Val Whittier to Jay Guber

APPROVED/SELECTPERSONS’ MEETING MINUTES
February 20, 2008

Selectpersons present: Lynn Hadyniak and Ron Price. Tim Biggs is away
Others present: Scott Holmes, Keisha Whitman, Betty Sienkiewicz, Thressa Abbott, Jay Guber, Sallyann Hadyniak and Marion Bowers.

The meeting was called to order by Ron Price at 6: 10PM.
Minutes of February 6, 2008 were read, amended and then approved.
Minutes of February 15, 2008 were read, amended and then approved.
All minutes will be filed in the appropriate place.

TOWN OFFICES:
JAY GUBER, CEO.
1. A fax had been received by Jay from the Beaver Ridge Wind, LLC which lists in detail of dates and what had been completed between the permit date of July 12, 2007 and January 12, 2008. This is what Jay based his opinion on regarding the work that had been done.
2. A Planning Board Meeting was recently held with Attorney Ed Bearer and the group he represented. At that meeting Jay was questioned intensely and he was not prepared to be cross examined. Jay did state that any further questioning would require that he be subpoenaed.
3. Inspection of Tim Biggs camp on the pond has been cancelled.
4. Letter from Senator Collins office re: EPA and DEP and the failure to have all hazardous material removed from the Skidgell warehouse. A portion of the building is unstable and in danger of collapse according to David Wright of the Maine EPA.
Mr. Wright did suggest that the Town apply for a Brownsfield Grant to assist with additional hazardous material removal and or demolition of the building.
Mr. Fuller met with one of the Selectmen, members of the Skidgel family and others from the DEP to discuss future plans at the site. He also concurred that the town may want to submit an application for a Brownsfield Grant. There is money available from the DEP to test soil and water samples at the site.
A copy of this letter is attached.
5. On February 8, 2008 there was a meeting at the site as mentioned above. It was learned that the Town has no jurisdiction at the site while the EPA is there. This was reinforced by a representative of the EPA. Approximately 10,000cubic yards of material have been removed. The Skidgels have gone into the building and did contribute their labor in this project. They do want to salvage what they can after the EPA leaves.
6. A letter dated January 28, 2008 notifying the Town that any employee, representative or contractor of the Town is not to cross the property border without specific permission of the land owner. This would include the CEO which means he can not carry out his job unless he obtains an administrative court order. Concerns of the CEO include safety factors, fire hazards and noting unsafe areas. Jay wondered what he should do. The Board would like to see if this can’t be worked out with out resorting to a court order. Lynn Hadyniak thought that things could be done in a time frame and checked out as they went along with a plan. Water tests should be done once the inventory has been removed.
A copy of the letter is attached.
7. The value of what the EPA and the DEP has done would be worth $500,000.
8. Ron Littlefield would like to know if he can do work to a discontinued road off Hardwood Lane? It was suggested that he petition his neighbors seeking their permission. The road is a public right of way.

TREASURER: ERNA KELLER
1. Checkbook balance: $125,122.74
2. Payroll: $2857.95
3. Warrant: $9888.72 plus $20,000 for paving account.
$7,500 for Fire Dept per warrant at the Town meeting, $2865 left from budget for Fire Dept per Town meeting 2007.
Actual warrant total will be $40,253.72.
4. Income: Municipal review committee, $1,125.23
MEDEP refund on septic system: $6,000
5. County tax for this year will be $66,375.27.
6. Checkbook balance after A/P will be $84,869.02
7. Unpaid property taxes: $175,000.
8. Paid out since January of 2008: $109,000.

A motion was made by Lynn Hadynaik seconded and motion carried to pay payroll in the amount of $2,857.95. Also to pay $45.31 to CMP for general assistance #1
A motion was made, seconded and carried to pay the warrant as outlined in #3 above in the amount of $40,253.72

ROAD COMMISSIONER: CLINT SPAULDING unavailable.
1. Trucks need radios.
2. Damage to truck #7 related to a mechanical failure. Presently at a garage.
3. Seatbelt wearing needs to be enforced.

HEALTH NURSE: MARION BOWERS
1. Information provided related to infectious viruses. The flu vaccine that everyone is encouraged to get in the fall is much less effective than it has been in the past. Forty four states have widespread flu. Maine was one that had only regional outbreaks of it. The WHO (World Health Organization) is considering changing the makeup of the flu vaccine for next year.
2. The other virus that has been affecting people is the Norovirus. This virus can be contagious 24 hours before symptoms. The symptoms with this virus are mainly gastroenteritis or stomach flu. Major concern then becomes dehydration. Antibiotics are of no help.
3. Waldo County TRIAD is offering free-of-charge, for those people who are 50+ years of age, an emergency beacon light to help locate the home requiring help. Directions are on the package and easy to follow. They also have a file of light where your medical information can be kept. They have a magnate attached so that they can be kept on the refrigerator door. These are available at the Town Office or by calling 1-866-928-7423

TOWN BOARDS: