2011 Minutes

PREVIOUS YEARS 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000. Attachments are generally not included with minutes (unless specifically requested) but can be viewed at the Town Office.
2011 MINUTES FOLLOW IN REVERSE CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER.

Select Board meets every other Monday of each month.

APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
APRIL 10, 2012

CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Price called the meeting to order at 6:10 PM. Others present: Clint Spaulding (Selectman), Dave Bridges (Comp. Plan), Scott Holmes (ACO), Erna Keller (Treasurer), Sallyann Hadyniak. Dave Bennett (FVFD), James Waterman (FVFD), and Tim Biggs each joined the meeting briefly.

REVIEW MINUTES: Clint moved, seconded by Ron to accept the minutes from March 26 as written; motion passed.

CORRESPONDENCE: There’s a meeting at the Waldo Town Office April 11 regarding the county trying to get into the animal control business.
There’s training for traffic control safety.
An evaluation has come in from Jackie Robbins on 26 new properties, to be filed in the Assessor’s folder.

ACO: Scott had reports of several stray cats on Palermo Road, and a dog, which he took to the shelter. Maggie Smith has agreed to pay her fines over a six month period. He dog license fees are paid, late fines are not. Clint moved that this should be paid in full within 3 months, seconded by Ron; motion passed.
Ron Price moved to adopt a policy that there will be no exceptions to the licensing late fee rule in the future. Motion passed. Ron advised Scott to keep a log, reporting his activity, conversations, travel, etc.

CITIZEN’S ISSUES: Dave Bennett asked the Board to consider putting an article on the June election ballot to appropriate $13,000 to install a pressurized hydrant when the mill pond is drained. He explained that most of the dry hydrants in Town have cracked PVC pipe. They looked into two grants which wouldn’t work out, and he thought the FD Capital Improvement Account couldn’t cover it. He didn’t know where else to look for a grant.
Tim Biggs inquired about the dimensions. It would be 208’ of pipe below 4’.
The Board agreed to Dave’s request.

TREASURER: Erna reported:
Payroll, week ending 3/31/12…………………………………$2085.69
Payroll this week……………………………………………………….$1865.51
A/P Warrant 3/30/12………………………………………………$2153.20

Beginning checkbook balance…………………………………..$272,442.01
A/P this week …………………………………………………………….$53,375.32
(includes April school payment)
Ending checkbook balance…………………………………………$219,066.69

Pike’s quote for grinding and laying down road for 6/10 of a mile is $12,000, or $20,000 per mile.
Erna brought up the issue of Scott’s mileage. His pay was raised to off-set his mileage, and his mileage was raised. The Town pays only for out-of-town mileage.
Clint moved that mileage be paid from local address (where an animal is picked up) to out-of-town locations only, seconded by Ron, and passed.
The liens are down to about seven; deadline is April 27.
Ron moved to sign payroll of $1865.51, seconded by Clint, and passed. Clint moved to sign the A/P warrant for $53,375.32.

FIRE CHIEF: Ron is still doing research on the value of the ambulance; Jim is getting an appraisal online.

ROAD COMMISSIONERS: Clint reported that the roads have been graded, and need to be touched up and graded again after the rain.
The Selectmen need to inspect the two sections of Smithton Hill that need work.
Clint was contacted by a BS Paving Co., who looked at Bryant Rd. and Greeley; the disrepair on those two roads are beyond sealing. He has also met with RC Paving, and is waiting for a quote per mile.
Clint said the Town does not have enough money to fix these roads.
A crew of three will be going out to do cold patch. Bob bought a tamper.
The new planks donated by Tom Piersack have been installed on the bleachers by the Public Works department. Another hazardous problem has come up, that children are running along the foundation of the old academy. The Recreation Committee has put aside money for a fence. Discussion followed on how to resolve this.
Ron and Clint decided to go over and inspect the foundation and old well.
The Road Commissioners will have to drive around and inspect roads, and get together with the Public Works Committee to come up with a road plan for the June election.

GENERAL ASSISTANCE: One applicant received assistance; Ron took care of it, and has some more work to do on it.

EMD: No FEMA funds are available for road repair.

BICENTENNIAL COMMITTEE: The committee is going to be getting information out to all the Boards and committees in Town.

COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: A letter was received from Dave Bridges requesting that an Implementation Committee be selected to prioritize, strategize, and “get the ball rolling”. Two groups are needed:
1. A Conservation Commission, which might require an ordinance passed.
2. An Economic Committee.
Clint moved to appoint Dave to get it started; motion passed.

RECREATION COMMITTEE: A candle sale is going on to raise money. Also, there is a new Facebook page, the flagpole challenge, and the bottle drive.

CEMETERY COMMITTEE: Jon Willette will take care of cemeteries, and also he would be interested in attending any training on restoring tombstones.

BUDGET COMMITTEE: Committee is in recess. Sallyann suggested an earlier start next year. Ron expressed his opinion that the committee is too large, and cumbersome. It needs to be streamlined, and it isn’t necessary for the committee to review articles for the Town warrant – that is the Select Board’s job.

HISTORICAL COMMITTEE: Sallyann reported that the committee is back in session, meeting at Viola’s house. The recipe books, coins, and photo scrapbooks are still for sale.

PUBLIC WORKS: Will need to meet to formulate a plan for road repairs.

OLD BUSINESS: Discussion centered on InfoME, the company that would set the Town Office up to take credit card payments. Ron read the InfoME material, and wants to be sure the Town doesn’t get locked into something they’ll regret. Erna is looking into how other Towns like the system.

NEW BUSINESS: The Secretary suggested that the Selectmen start up a quarterly newsletter, which would help resolve issues before they come up.
Ron inquired about the process for updating the website. Minutes go to Frances, and she also puts on items from Sallyann. There seems to be a lot of obsolete material. The Board decided to meet with Frances, or perhaps she could come to a Selectmen’s meeting.
Ron raised the issue of the Select Board’s policy about spending funds for legal advice. Clint thought that no Town Board has the right to spend money for consulting services
Ron moved to adopt the following Select Board policy: “Any Town Boards or Committees who need to use legal services of the Town lawyer, or paid KVCOG consulting fees have to be approved by the Selectmen.” Clint seconded the motion; motion passed and the policy adopted.
Ron brought up the subject of the Commercial Development Review Ordinance. He stated that the Freedom Planning Board voted on 4/3/12 to accept their version of the Town of Jackson’s Commercial Wind Ordinance. The Select Board does not believe this ordinance is appropriate for our Town. Furthermore, it seems unlikely the Planning Board will have a completed Commercial Development Review Ordinance anytime soon. The Freedom Select Board proposes to submit an updated version of the previous 2006 Freedom Commercial Development Review Ordinance to KVCOG and the Town attorney, Bill Kelly, for their scrutiny. The funds for this action will be taken from the legal account. Clint seconded the motion. Discussion:
Ron further explained, in response to a question from Sallyann, that instead of going with the Jackson ordinance, as the Planning Board voted, the Selectmen are going back to the ordinance Freedom had before, with updates
Erna asked how we can have an ordinance that won’t allow wind turbines when we already have three – does this mean ours have to come down? Clint said Jackson’s ordinance would prohibit upgrading or replacing them.
Sallyann thought this Plan. Bd. Action wasn’t final, but Ron countered that the Planning Bd. did vote to use Jackson’s Wind ordinance, then moved on to discussing water extraction.
Clint said the Town voters don’t want to use other Town’s ordinances; Freedom voters want ordinances written specifically for Freedom.
Ron called for a vote; motion passed.
Ron reported that the backstop fabric was not nearly as expensive as was predicted, but he thinks he might get a donation for it ($300).
Clayton told Ron how to get rid of weeds (use a rototiller, but keep it shallow). Erna asked if Clayton had mentioned putting a screen on a lawnmower to prevent damage?
Ron reported that the Recall Ordinance has been sent to Kristin Collins for review and revision.
A hearing for the Floodplain Ordinance needs to be scheduled – has the Planning Board taken care of this? Ron will check with Dave Schofield.
The next meeting will be April 23 at 6 PM.
Adjournment moved/passed at 8:06 PM.

Respectfully submitted, Glen Bridges, Secretary

APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
MARCH 26, 2012

Chairman Price called the meeting to order at 6:02 PM, with the following present:
Selectmen Ron Price & Clint Spaulding, Dave Bridges (Comp. Plan), Dave Schofield (CEO), Jim Waterman (Fire Chief), Meredith Coffin (Solid Waste Rep.), Derek Higgins, Roland Robitaille, Ingrid Robitaille, Glen Bridges, Secretary.

REVIEW MINUTES: The minutes from March 12, 2012 were accepted as written.

CITIZEN’S ISSUES: Glen Bridges commented on the impressive list of important accomplishments by the Select Board in 2011.
Residents from Rollins Rd. attended to explain to the Board that the condition (mud) of their road is worse than ever. One resident had to be towed out. They all have to park at Greeley Rd., and the kids have to walk out to the school bus. They all pay taxes. Someone cutting wood is hauling it out by pick-up truck, making the mud worse. They asked for the Road Commissioners to please put Rollins on their work agenda.
Clint responded that there will be reconstruction on it. Trees need to be cut back, and 1200’ needs to be re-built, a culvert is needed, and ditching should be done. Ron suggested these residents consider coming to Town Meeting to help influence appropriations for road repair.

CORRESPONDENCE: A complaint came in about Burnham Hill Rd., which is actually Montville’s road.
Notices came in about trainings on bridge building and property tax assessment.
Pete Curra wrote a note saying he is interested in participating again in the State program for eligible seniors to receive fresh farm vegetables.

TOWN CLERK REPORT: Cindy submitted a draft of Town Meeting minutes.
1. The Select Board needs to sign a Boundary Line Agreement. Ron moved, seconded by Clint, to sign the agreement. Motion passed.
2. The Mutual Aid Agreement was approved by Knox. Knox will pay $6800 for 2012, with a 4% increase each year for 3 years, payment due on June 1.
3. The Porta-potty contract is due. Kids will start baseball this week, but will be starting over at Larrabee Field. Clint moved, seconded by Ron, to sign the contract. Motion passed.
4. Cindy submitted a flyer for spring clean up, May 19th this year, door to door.
5. A mailing will be going out to the Town for: Spring Clean Up May 19th, the increased price of dump stickers, and notice of the June 12 election. Absentee ballots have to be available May 12, and information for the ballot to Cindy by May 7th.
6. Cindy researched credit card payment information and presented the Board with a contract: The “swiper” machine is about $85, and involves a 2.5% charge to customers.
Ron moved, seconded by Clint, to sign the contract with InfoME and buy the swipe machine. Motion passed.
7. Cindy asked for approval to buy red mulch, 10 bags at $2.49 per bag. Approved.
8. Flags for cemeteries will cost $108, or 75 cents per flag. The Town needs about 10 dozen. Clint moved to approve; motion passed.
9. Bob Hermon thinks the Town Office needs a new flagpole. He donated $10 with a challenge to office personnel to match his donation. We need to start a campaign to raise that money. Discussion centered on a 20’ pole.

10. Cindy inquired about repairs/maintenance for the Town Office:
a. Repair and hang window shutters.
b. Bathroom blind needs to be replace; heating unit needs to be replaced or painted (it’s rusted).
c. The walls need a chair rail, and re-painting.
Erna reported that there is $2700 budgeted for building repairs; $800 was designated to go for the EMD’s office. Ron suggested getting the shutters fixed, the bathroom blind, and heater in the bathroom painted, but to wait to have the whole office painted until the EMD’s office is finished.

FIRE CHIEF: The Knox Town Report, page 4-8 is a response to the Mutual Aid Contract.
The FVFD wants to sell their old ambulance. How to do that? Put it on E-Bay? Clint said it has to be put out to bid, or E-Bay would be all right. Jim said it is a 2000 E450 diesel with new tires; the battery is dead. Jim thinks it cost $8500 4-5 years ago, and might be worth $1500-2000 or more today. It doesn’t suit the need it was bought for. Ron said he would like to research what it is really worth, and Jim said he would do the same.

SOLID WASTE DIRECTOR: Aaron has signed a contract for another year as manager. Meredith is waiting for the envelope from GAT to negotiate a new contract. UARRC has raised the individual family rate to $25/year, or $40 to include battery and e-waste. Bolsters has picked up a lot of contracts. The market for recyclables is up; 119,000 lbs. were sold in 60 working days. Hilary is working with Meredith. They are researching options such as compactors. [Minutes attached]
Questions came up about ways to discard tires; Meredith will check into it in time for Cindy’s mailing.

TREASURER’S REPORT: Erna reported:
Payroll 3/19/12………………………………………..$4236.48
Payroll 3/26/12………………………………………..$3062.68

Beginning checkbook balance……………….……$266,405.72
A/P Warrant…………………………………………….$8189.86
Ending checkbook balance…………………………$258,215.86
Foreclosure notices were mailed March 13th, and are due before April 28. Out of 28 sent, 17 have not yet paid, to a total of $18,173.13.
Clint moved to sign the payroll of $3062.68 and the warrant for $8189.86; motion passed.

CEO/LPI: Dave Schofield reported that he needs a signature from the Selectmen to approve a holding tank. Ron moved, seconded by Clint, to sign the permit. A public hearing has to be scheduled prior to a vote for the Floodplain Ordinance. Other subjects for a public hearing would be a plow truck, and borrowing money for paving.

ROAD COMMISSIONERS: Clint reported that Smithton Hill is in very bad shape. It never should have been paved without being re-built underneath. Clint would like to have the paving ground up and laid back down, and rolled. Christine will look into any possible FEMA help, and she’ll take pictures. Ron suggested finding out what that would cost (Kevin Keller is looking into it with Pike). 3000’ of Smithton needs to be rebuilt, and 1200’ of Rollins Rd. also.

EMD: Christine has a meeting tomorrow.

BICENTENNIAL: Meetings are the 3rd Tuesdays at 4 PM; next one April 17.

PLANNING BOARD: Glen reported a meeting is coming up March 28, a site visit at the mill at 5:30, followed by a public hearing and meeting to vote on the project’s Shoreland Zoning permit. Another meeting is scheduled for April 3 to vote on the wind section of the ordinance, and to begin considering the water extraction section.
Glen asked to be replaced as liaison between the Planning Board and the Select Board
Questions arose about appointments to Town boards in general – Glen will create a list for the Selectmen.

RECREATION COMMITTEE: Cindy reported to the Selectmen:
1. Tim Biggs is fixing the scoreboard, the backside rotted from lying on the ground. The supplies are $11; his labor is volunteer.
2. Tom Piersack is donating wood for the bleachers. Volunteers are needed to paint the picnic tables and bleachers.
3. Discussion about the fabric or netting that goes behind the backstop. Ron will check into a possible donation. Clint suggested calling Clayton for information.
4. Work on the field still needs to be finished.
a. Finish the field
b. A hole in the field to be filled in.
c. Weeds growing on the baseline.
Clint suggested having Bob Hermon do the work, and to ask Clayton what to use on the weeds. Ron and Clint will meet with the former volunteer.
5. $1000 was budgeted for lights for the Veteran’s Memorial flags.
7. Junk metal was dumped in the woods near the ballpark. Cleaning it up could be a Boy Scout project.
8. Picnic table need to be painted with deck paint.
9. A gazebo is in the works for the Memorial area, to be built by students at the technical school. The RC will make a $500 payment and raise the rest $1000.

OLD BUSINESS: Clint moved to limit the Board meetings to 6 PM to 8:30; to not go overtime without a vote of the Board. Motion passed.

NEW BUSINESS: Clint suggested that the recall ordinance be revised so that a recall complaint has to be factual. Clint moved to send the ordinance to Kristin Collins for review and revision. Motion passed.
A letter has to go to a resident, certified mail, to register her dogs or be fined.
Ron, Clint, and Bob will attend the training on building bridges, April 25 at 7:30 AM.
The next Selectmen’s meeting is April 9, 2012 at 6 PM.
Motion to adjourn passed at 8:15 PM.

Respectfully submitted, Glen Bridges, Sec.

APPROVED MINUTES/SELECTMEN’S MEETING
MARCH 12, 2012

Chairman Ron Price called the meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. with the following present:
(Selectmen) Brian Jones, (Selectmen) Clint Spaulding, (Town Clerk) Cindy Abbott, (Treasurer),Erna Keller (Fire Chief) Jim Waterman, (ACO) Scott Holmes, (Acting Secretary) Sallyann Hadyniak

First Order of Business:
Brian Jones nominated Ron Price as chairman of the board and Clint Spaulding second it. Ron accepted.
Clint Spaulding nominated Brian Jones as General Assistance Administrator and Ron Price second it. Brian accepted.

Review of Minutes:

Brian Jones made a motion to approve the minutes as reported and to be placed on file. Clint Spaulding seconds the motion, motion made and carried. All were in favor.

Citizens Issues and Concerns:

None

FIRE CHIEF:

Jim Waterman reported that the air compressor is on its way and should be arriving soon. The department sold the SCBA (self contained breathing apparatus) with an even swap with Dalmatian Services out of Colorado. Their getting the 4 SCBA’s with the bottles and we will be getting 2 refurbished SCBA bottles with a spare bottle for each.
Jim is anticipating at the meeting tonight the volunteers will come up with wanting to sell the ambulance because it is not being utilized and will not be replaced.
The radios have not been ordered yet but when they do come in, Bret will program them. They have been purchased at $140.00 each for a total of 6 radios costing $840.00. Christine (EMD) will have two, one for her vehicle and one for the office.
He thinks that Knox will accept a three year contract with stepping increases from $6,800.00 - $7,200.00 - $7,6o0.00. These figures may not be correct but there is a three year stepping increase.

ACO:
Clint went down to see the woman whose dogs aren’t registered and no one was at home. He made a proposal that the ACO, Scott Holmes stop going there and that the Board of Selectmen send her a letter stating that she has 10 days to clear up this matter or further action will be taken. Ron Price will write the letter and she does not respond she will be issued a summons.
Scott reported that there are 3 people who have not registered their dogs and he notified them and they have not responded. It was suggested that the same letter that Ron was going to write be sent to them. Also a form letter/notice should be sent out to everyone in January stating the consequences of not registering their pets. This will hopefully eliminate the same problem that happens every year.
Scott went over to Carol Richardson to pick up a mother cat and 2 day old kittens. The kittens are too young to be placed into a shelter and Scott was asked to foster them until they were a bit older.

ROAD COMMISSIONER:

There was a lengthily discussion regarding the roads and maintenance, Clint stated that the frost is still in the ground. Once the frost and mud season is over, they will be able to begin to spread a few loads of crushed stone here and there.
Approximately 100 yards of road needs attention.

TOWN CLERK:

Cindy said she will call Sullivan to see what dates he has available for spring door to door pickup, then let the board know so they can vote on a date. Her minutes of the Town meeting were incomplete at this point and she will post the results of the articles on the door of the Town Office.
At the Town Meeting the citizens directed the Board of Selectmen to write Letters to the following people informing them of the vote at the Town Meeting regarding the non binding resolution results to: Collins, Michaud, Snow, Obama, State Senators and Representatives
Brian wrote an introduction letter including the resolution, the Selectmen sign it, and the Clerk attest to it and it goes off in the mail. (This is regarding the petition)

GENERAL ASSISTANCE:

General Assistance offered one award in the amount of $565.00-$570.00; The applicants were notified that they had to apply for jobs. We had an emergency
From someone who did not qualify but we delivered 20 gallons of fuel oil that the town will cover,

HEALTH OFFICER:

Everyone is healthy!

Ron had a conversation with Heather Perry, the district is short 800 some thousand dollars of monies that they aren’t getting from the state and federal monies in our school assessment. We will be getting hit at the worse scenario with a 30% increase because of our increase in our valuation... Everyone got hit from 14-17%.
The school buses are going back to a one bus run,

EMD:

There wasn’t anything to report.

Bi-Centennial Committee:

The meetings will be held the third Tuesday of each month at the Town Office starting at 6:00 p.m. and volunteers are needed. Some ideas were suggested to have at this function.

TREASURERS REPORT;

1. Payroll Warrant this week is $3,213.86 (this includes 1 selectmen, ballot clerks from elections-town meeting and regular time cards).
2. Payroll for week ending 3./5/12 was $2,299.11
3. Beginning checking balance $257,778.03
Less A/P this week $12, 661.85
Ending Checkbook Balance $245,116.18
4. A/P this week is $12,661.85
5. A/P for week ending 3/8/12 was $3,444.56 (State Reports-Dogs, BMV, IF & W, Town of Knox, Town of Jackson, Waldo County and Rag of Deeds
6. The pink copy in the front of payroll folder-the new 2012 state wages.
7. Town Reports seemed to be a great success.
Clint recommended to pay Cindy and Erma $250.00 for making up the Town Reports. Brian second the motion, motion made and carried and all were in favor. Brian made a motion to purchase the binding machine at an approximate cost of $350.00 plus $80.00 for the covers. Clint second the motion, motion made and carried and all were in favor. Clint made a motion to accept the treasurer’s report and pay the Payroll warrant in the amount of $3,213.86 and the A/P Warrant in the amount of $12.661.85. Brian second the motion, motion made and carried and all were in favor.

OLD BUSINESS;

Ron was to write a letter to the lady with the dogs.
Brian has 3 abatements to issue next Monday at 4:O00 p.m. in the Town Office.

NEW BUSINESS:

Clint made a suggestion to limit the Selectmen’s meeting from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. A discussion followed. No decision was made but perhaps it can be brought up at the next meeting.

Erna stated that the 45 day notices were going to be sent out tomorrow regarding the liens.
Brian asked that the Town does not sell any of the properties until he returns back from vacation.

The next Selectman’s meeting will be held on Monday March 26, 2012 at the Town Office.

Ron Price made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:21. Clint second the motion, motion made and carried and ALL were in favor.

Respectfully submitted,

Sallyann Hadyniak
Acting Secretary

APPROVED MINUTES/SELECTMEN’S MEETING
FEBRUARY 27, 2012

Chairman Ron Price called the meeting to order at 6:11 p.m. with the following present:
(Selectmen) Brian Jones, (Selectmen) Clint Spaulding, (Town Clerk) Cindy Abbott, (Treasure) Erna Keller, (CEO) Dave Skofield, (Fire Chief) Jim Waterman, Jasmine Schmidt, Richard Spinelli, Scott Holmes, Myrick Cross and (Acting Secretary) Sallyann Hadyniak.

CEO:
Dave Skofield spoke to the board about the Public Hearing that was coming up on February 28, 2012 regarding Shore Land Zoning changes and the Flood Plain insurance. A one resident would be covered if they purchased the insurance. The town already has the insurance and but it will be running out in June because we allowed our ordinance to get too far outdated. The government wants it to be fixed. It does not cost the town any money to purchase it, but if a resident wants it, they must buy it. It would cost 10 times more if the town didn’t belong to the group. There is an article in the Town Office that Brian read as follows: “Shall the Town of Freedom amend the Flood Plain Ordinance to meet State and Federal Minimum requirements”? The answer is “Without this ordinance citizens of the town may lose their right t purchase Floodplain insurance from FEMA”. Dave confirmed that everything in that article is true.
Change in Article 37 now reads “wholesale or retail sale”, Dave did get the permission from the state to make the change in the paragraph.
Change in Article 38 a map amendment to the shore land zoning. The Main Street side of the river and up to the Mill Street side of the dam and from the dam to 137 will be a map change. The idea is to protect the two structures the town already owns.
Change in Article 39 a standard article allowing the Selectmen to sign the boundary agreement between Roderick and Betty Ann Powers-Luhn.
Cindy has copies of the above and will attach them to the warrant.
Copy of map attached to the warrant.
A total of 4 articles have been inserted by the Selectmen and the CEO Dave Skofield, regarding the Shore Land Zoning and the Flood Plain.
The Planning Board will go over the articles and if not accepted it will be passed over. It will be decided at the Public Hearing and only the Planning board can approve or disapprove of the changes. They want it done in time for the Yearly Town Meeting.

Review of Minutes:

Brian Jones made a motion to accept the minutes as amended and for them to be placed on file, Clint second the motion, and all were in favor.

CITIZENS ISSUES AND CONCERNS:

Jasmine Schmidt (aerobic instructor) who lives in Knox, spoke to the board about trying to find a place to hold low impact fitness classes once or twice a week for adults, seniors and children. She was advised to seek out Warren Spaulding, pastor of the Freedom Congregational Church. The selectmen will explore this situation and she can be contacted at 568-1073.

CORRESPONDANCE:

None

FIRE CHIEF:

Jim needs a purchase order for 6 portable radios through a Buy program which is located outside of Augusta. The radio’s cost $140.00 each for a total of $840.00. Jim is making a proposal that one of the radios is to be used by our EMD, Christine Spaulding. The County EMA will program her radio to the frequencies that she will need if this was an emergency center. If she wants a radio in her vehicle, Jim may be able to provide that for her also. It would be a total of two radios, one for her office and one for her vehicle.
Jim mentioned Electricity Maine once again and made sure that the people know if they are on a monthly budget, and sign up for the plan, their budget amount will stop and a new budget amount will be provided.
Brian made the comment about the fire department arriving at home in South Freedom in under 15 minutes, and a dozen firefighters showed up and shortly thereafter Albion, Montville, Luckily it was only plugged chimney and the house was filled with smoke.
Nicholas Larrabee from South Freedom signed up and will be taking a class in March, which is the basic fire school qualified for interior structural firefighter.
Rich Spinelli will give a report to Jim regarding the air compressor later in the evening at the firemen’s meeting. Jim also thanked the Board for maintenance on the furnace and suggested it be done once a year.

ACO:

Scott had a cat hanging around his house for a few days, picked
her up and took her to a shelter. He also received a call from Hazel Cross about a cat hanging out at her house, so Myrick will set a trap and when the cat is caught, he will call Scott,.
Scott also spoke to a woman about her dogs that are unlicensed and gave her two weeks to get them licensed. If he does not hear from her, he has been directed to go and speak to her again and give her a 10 day notice and report back to the Selectmen. All three of the Selectmen agreed to this after a lengthy discussion.

TREASURER:

1. Payroll Warrant for this week: $1,791.65
2. Payroll for week ending February 20th was $3,142.90
(Included 2 Selectmen and the CEO)
3. Beginning checkbook balance $280,049.21
Less A/P Warrant this week $47,611.98
Ending Checkbook Balance $232,437.23
4. A/P Warrant this week is: $47,611.98
(March school payment and Dwight Gould
Snow contract for March payment).
5. Received a check from MRC for $811.39
(4th quarter of 2011)

6. Do you want state wages added to warrants?
7. Binding Machine for the town book-prices varied from $150.00-$300.00.
8. The Town Reports are being printed this week.
9. Erna’s NIMS training was done on 10/21/2009. She has a copy from FEMA.
Cindy’s was done on 4/14/2006.
10. There is a report from Key Bank that $400.000.00 can be borrowed @2.5% for (Paving and roads)
11. County Tax is $98,161.15
12. The 2012 Municipal Revenue Sharing is projected to be $45,498.58.

Brian made a motion to accept the treasurer’s report and to sign the warrants. Clint seconds the motion Motion made and carried, all were in favor.

After a lengthy discussion regarding the paving and fixing of roads, that perhaps the best thing to do is to come up with a plan regarding the roads, then present it to the townspeople to vote upon as a referendum at the June meeting.
Clint suggested a straw vote be put on the warrant. Brian worded the following to be placed on the warrant:

This vote is advisory and does not legally bind the Town of any action.

To see if the Town will authorize the Selectmen to borrow up to $400.000.00 for the purpose of building and paving roads.

A motion for a straw vote and to include this article language was made by Clint Spaulding and second by Ron Price. Motion made and carried. All were in favor.
Ron suggested that it be placed on the warrant before the fire department\\

State wages were also discussed regarding Public Works. Discussions garbage stickers, Historical Society,
The Board of Selectmen looked over each article on the warrant and made the necessary changes that are seen and worded correctly in the warrant which is attached to the minutes.
Brian made a motion to accept the warrant as amended. Ron seconds the motion. Motion made and carried.

OLD BUSINESS:

There were 2 general assistance items; one was a pending decision among the Selectmen for a poverty abatement .and one was a general assistance case coming in tomorrow morning.

NEW BUSINESS:

Clint made a motion to try the thermal binding machine. The girls will pick one out to try it. Ron second it, motion made and carried. All were in favor. The Town Report will be dedicated to Bob Knowlton and Steve Cross and Janet Boynton. . Ron made the motion for the girls to pick out the color of the Town Warrant and Brian seconds it. Motion made and carried.

Ron wants to see the short copy of the audit and does not want all three years in the book. They can always be seen at the office. 2011 would be the short audit to go into the Town Report. Brian agreed and seconds it. All were in favor.

The next meeting is set for Monday, March 12, 2012

Ron made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:35 and Clint second the motion. Motion made and carried. All were in favor.

Respectfully submitted,

Sallyann Hadyniak
Acting Secretary

APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
FEBRUARY 13, 2012

Chairman Ron Price called the meeting to order at 6:06 PM. With the following present:
Selectman Brian Jones, Selectmen Clint Spaulding, (Town Clerk)Cindy Abbott, (CEO) Dave Skofield, (ACO) Scott Holmes, Donna and Glen Sporie, Jim Waterman, Ron Porter and Sallyann Hadyniak.

CEO
Dave Skofield, showed the Selectmen an agreement from Tony Grassi’s attorney regarding the borderlines (Mill Street had two boundaries by deed and they just want to agree on one and on the town’s side there are three lines, and they only want one). Cindy has a copy. They need a plan and DEP sat down with them and helped write an ordinance to make it work since DEP has to agree on it. There also will need to be an amendment to our ordinance for there will be different sections, such as a definition change and a setback change. It will be fixing the dam from the Unity line to the stream. It would be a big job to get the zoning changed so this will suffice. The next step is to have a hearing and then a public meeting, letters sent to the abutters. The Planning Board is the only one that can recommend state shore land zoning ordinance changes. Grassi plans to give the town a deeded right of way to get to the hydrant. Right now it is just a verbal one. A copy will be given to the town. Dave left documents with the board.

FIRE CHIEF:
Jim Waterman reported that a representative from Thompson’s Oil will make a list that will make the furnaces legally right. (Town Office, Fire House and Town Garage) A man is coming from the oil company to work on them Tuesday morning at 9:00 a.m. They will call Ron and Ron will call Kim Holmes to be at the fire house. Maritime Oil is doing the job.

CITIZENS ISSUES/PUBLIC COMMENT
NONE

MINUTES:
Ron Price made a motion to accept the amended minutes and place them on file and Clint Spaulding second the motion. Motion made and carried. All were in favor.

CORRESPONDANCE:
The Department of Human Services sent a letter stating that we were in compliance
with the General Assistance Program and that it meets the state guidelines.

PAYROLL WARRANT:
Cindy gave Ron the payroll to sign in the amount of $1,571.64.
Ron made a motion to accept the payroll and Clint second the motion, all in favor, motion made and carried.

No A/P Warrant this past week.

ACO:
Scott Holmes requested to go into executive session, therefore Ron made a motion to go into ES as per M.R.S.A. 4056A to discuss confidential records. Clint seconds the motion, motion made and carried. All were in favor. They went in at 6:36 p.m. and came out at 6:48 p.m. and no decision was made.
There is an issue with some dogs not being registered and the ACO has been directed to call on this person together with Ron if it is agreeable with all the selectmen to try to come to some understanding.
Scott picked up the list of 8 unregistered dogs and will be making house visits.

TOWN CLERK:
1. CMP contacted Cindy to say that Asplundh is in town tree trimming.
2. Cindy also called Frances Walker to tell her the Comprehensive Plan is going to be voted on at the Town Meeting. Also to change the wording so people aren’t confused regarding the dates. The voting is on the 9th and the meeting is on the 10th.
3. Article 3 (on the warrant) must say that the Comprehensive Plan can be viewed at the town office. Brian put the information in the Town Warrant Folder.
4. The State of Maine changed the hours of voting to 9:00 a.m. -8:00 p.m.
5. Cindy received complete packets filled with information regarding the use of a machine to be used to pay taxes, etc via credit cards. After a discussion it was decided to read the information and they would come back to it at another time. Brian took the copy to read.
6. Regarding Veteran’s they must be deployed from military duty combat for a minimum of 180 days otherwise they are not exempt for registration and excise. This is not ready for town meeting and more then likely there will have to be an ordinance for this. Most towns are adopting one.
7. Spirit of America award goes to the Rec. Committee. A motion was made by Brian Jones and second by Clint Spaulding. Motion made and carried. All were in favor.
8. Cindy reported that blue stacking chairs are missing. Apparently someone borrowed them before election and they were never returned. It was suggested that a sign out sheet should be made and that the chairs should be marked with a marking Sharpie pencil. There are still blue ones left but many are missing.
9. Cindy will be following up on the ordinance and the flood plain.

ROAD COMMISSIONER:
Nothing to report except, Glen was sent down to get the stuff for the damaged back wall in the town garage. Bob can’t do anything until the town meeting regarding the bad sills, pull out the bench and the whole wall needs to be repaired. All the signs have to come out of there also. New chains are in the garage.

GENERAL ASSISTANCE:
There was one property tax abatement did not qualify. One party received 50 gallons of fuel oil and due to an emergency. Another case recently applied for a
GA application. Clint met gentlemen that wanted poverty abatement and he needed help filling out the application and he should get something. Brian and Clint will meet with him.
Due to alternative heating, oil is down and gas is up!

HEALTH OFFICER:
Ron reported that there aren’t any health issues other then rabies has been reported in the southern part of the state. It’s a virus that is transmitted and we should all be aware of this.

EMD:
If everyone isn’t up on training, the town will not qualify for emergency grants or otherwise. The training has to be done only once and proof must be submitted that you took your training. The officers in the town of Freedom must have 175. Erna took 700 on line but proof has to be submitted. It can be done on line, Cindy took hers in 2006. That means, Cindy, Ron, Brian, Clint, Erna , Scott, Jim Waterman, have proof. It’s Chris’s job to keep track of the town according to Belfast.

BI-CENTENNIAL COMMITTEE:
There is a meeting on Tuesday, February 21, 2012 starting at 6:00 p.m. at the Town Office.

PLANNING BOARD:
The Planning Board meets tomorrow night (February 14, 2012) at 6:30 at the Town Office.

COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING COMMITTEE:
Sallyann reported that David gave her a letter from the Comprehensive Planning Committee to be put into the newspaper and Brian wrote a letter on behalf for grants for the community and Dave responded with some changes.

RECRECREATION COMMITTEE:
The bottle drive brought in $49.05. There will be a 50-50 at the Election and the Town Meeting for an upcoming fund raiser. The idea of a calendar will come up at a later meeting.

CEMETERY COMMITTEE:
We don’t have any rules regarding the vaults and should go by the state law because we don’t have an ordinance. Brian will look into it and get back to Helen.

BUDGET COMMITTEE:
Since we don’t know the increases of the county tax, the assessment of the school, in terms of money the town activities raise and appropriates, last year it was $485,678.00 this year it’s $447,100.00 so it was reduced about $40,000.00 so far.
Next budget meeting is February 27, 2012

OLD BUSINESS:
Clint and Brian will look at the audit reply form, sign the 1st page and send it back. The audit is for 2011.

NEW BUSINESS:
None

Christine talked to Tom Clay and he is a ham operator and is interested in helping and there was a discussion regarding an office for Christine, and just what could be done in the town office annex.

Monday there will be a selectmen’s workshop at 4:00 p.m.

The next meeting is Monday, February 27, 2012

The meeting was adjourned by Ron at 7:45 p.m. and all were in favor!

Respectfully submitted,

Sallyann Hadyniak
Acting Secretary

CORRECTED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
JANUARY 30 2012

Chairman Price called the meeting to order at 6:08 PM, with the following present: Selectman Ron Price, Selectman Clint Spaulding, Selectman Brian Jones, Erna Keller (Treasurer), Cindy Abbott (Town Clerk) Dave Skofield (CEO) M. Coffin (Solid Waste Director/ Regional Representative), Hilary Fleming (Asst. SWD), Tom Fleming, Sarah Bicknell, Rich Spinelli, Donna and Glen Sporie and Sallyann Hadyniak (Secretary).

Review Minutes: The minutes from January 16, 2012 were approved with the correction of the date of the next meeting. From Tuesday January 31, 2012 to Monday to January 30, 2012. Ron made a motion to accept the minutes and place them on file with the above change and Clint second the motion. Motion made and carried..
No task list was reported.

Citizen Issues and Questions: None

Review Correspondence:
1 The Board received a request for property abatement for property taxes but will be covered under General Assistance.
2 The Selectmen responded to a request from Mr. Backarack regarding shore land zoning, the meeting was held and resolved to everyone’s satisfaction.
3 The MMA request a document that Erna and the Selectmen have to deal with local government finance survey
4 Correspondence from MERC and the Unity Cycling Center that will be brought up by M. Coffin under Solid Waste Director/Regional Representative.

Town Clerk:
1. A petition was presented by Sarah Bicknell and Brian read the petition for a non binding resolution is placed on the warrant of the next regularly scheduled town meeting for consideration by the citizens in the town of Freedom. The intent of this Town Meeting vote is to influence the Maine State Legislature and the Maine and the United States Congress to amend the United States Constitution to explicitly state that corporation is not human beings. After a lengthy discussion it was agreed to have the petition on file in the office for those that would like to read it instead of attaching it to the Warrant. To sum up the petition; Ballot statement: The citizens of Freedom, Maine hereby urge the Maine State Legislature and the United States congress to amend the United States Constitution and the Maine State Constitution to clearly state that corporations are not human beings and do not have the same rights as citizens. FOR urging our state and federal elected officials to amend the United States Constitution to explicitly state that corporations are not human beings. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that, should it pass by a majority vote by the citizens assembled at Town Meeting a copy of this vote of non-binding statement on behalf of Citizens of Freedom be forwarded immediately to United States President Barack Obama, Senator Olympia Snowe, Senator Susan Collins, Representative Dennis Michael Michaud, and all members of the Maine State House and Senate. Ron made a motion to accept the petition and Brian second the motion. Motion made and carried.
2. A list of people that are on the ballot was presented to the Board of Selectmen, stating that Clint Spaulding is being opposed by Frances Walker for a three year term of Selectperson, and that Myrick Cross is running as School Board Representative unopposed. Erna and Cindy are unopposed. Absentee ballots will be available to be picked up at the Town Office starting on Wednesday, February 8, 2012
3. “Golden Rod” was chosen to be the color of the Town Reports. A motion was made by Clint Spaulding, second by Ron Price. Motion made and carried.
4. The Town Report will be dedicated to Steve Cross and Janet Boynton.
5. The Selectmen are to pick a local person, project or group to receive Freedom's 2012 Spirit of America Foundation Tribute Award for outstanding community service. Brian mad a motion to table this item and it needs to be in by the next Selectmen’s meeting. Clint seconds it. Motion made and carried, all were in favor.
6. Cindy received a letter from a woman that was sent September 30, 2011Rhe Flood Flan Management Ordinance is out of date. The respond time was 30 days and it has expired. Ron made a motion to turn it over to the CEO (Dave Skofield). Clint second the motion, motion made and carried and all were in favor.
7. Cindy has training on Thursday and Jo Ann can’t cover for her so she requested the office be closed from 9:30 AM-11:30 AM. Brian made a motion to accept, Clint second it, motion made and carried.
8. Unregistered dog license late fee starts February 1, 2012. Unregistered dog owners name goes on the warrant and it’s up to our ACO to follow up and the late fee is $25.00.
9. Cindy presented the Selectmen with a Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Report showing the difference over a 5 year chart the difference for each year. So that they can see how the excise tax is calculated.

a. The Tractor Excise Report for 2011 Total $1,289.76
b. Other reports given were the Tax Collectors Report for 2011 Abatements $14,280.00
c. 2010 Abatements $396.16
d. 2009 Abatements $194.59
e. Total abatements for 2011 $14,870.75

10. Tax Collectors Report for 2012 Abatements
a. 2011 Abatements $5,339.42
b. 2003-2005 Abatements $1,011,60
c. Total Abatements for 2012 $6,351.02 to date.

11. Non Zero Balance on All Accounts were given to the Selectmen.

There are 70 accounts which in total owe the town $68,896.67 for 2010 only.

12. There are a total of $143,985.00 outstanding real estate taxes for 157 accounts in 2011.
13. Outstanding real estate taxes for 2010 $68,896.67 Lien Summary
14. 2009 Erna sent out 45 day notice on January 13, 2012. The actual notice will go out 3/13/12 and the automatic foreclosure is 4/28/12.
15. One real estate in 2008. for a supplemental added for a garage amd the same thing in 2007. Cindy spoke to her.
16. 2006 nothing owed
17. Personal property separated individually 2011 outstanding from original is $6,299.40
18. No liens are filed on personal property,
19. Account 40 and 30 are asked to meet with these people and it is already set up.

TREASURES REPORT:

Ron Price made a motion to pay the warrant in the amount of $2,048.28 from last week. Brian seconds the motion. Motion made and carried. Just
sign. Checks are in with the warrant..

1. Payroll Warrant for this week is:$2,048.28
2. Payroll for w/e 1/23/12 was:$2,043.92
3. Payroll for w/e 1/23/12 was: $16.l5 due to an error on Erna’s part,
4. Beginning checkbook balance $224,804.22 less A/P this week $11,166.92+$127.50=$11,294.42
5. Ending checkbook balance $213,637.30+ $127.50=$213,764.80
6. Clint made a motion to accept the A/P warrant $11,294.42,
Brian seconds the motion. Motion made and carried.
7. $7,236.00 to be removed from the Historical Society recommended by the auditor, a motion was made by Brian Jones and second by Clint Spaulding. Motion made and carried, all in favor. The auditor suggested that all cash accounts be put into. the general fund, where they belong. Brian made a motion giving Ernar permission to transfer the cash accounts to the general fund, Ron Price second the motion. Motion made and carried. Motion made and carried, all in favor. The ball field and town park are all in one account. Park and Recreation. It is now one account. Erna needs to get permission to close the accounts and bring the checks back to the office. They then are handed to Cindy to be put through cash receipting. so it is done properly. Brian made the motion, Clint second it. Motion made and carried, all in favor. Erna reported that they have been having issues with Trio and they had to do the work manually. She and Brenda have been working together and they will go over the form1099 to get to the original balance. The Waterville Maine Humane Society has gone up to $1,020.98.
There is a contract in the folder that Clint signed. We received a refund check from the snowmobile club for $370.72 state of Maine Revenue Sharing for January in the amount of $4,347,06. Clint made a motion to accept the Treasurer’s report, Brian second, motion made and carried all were in favor.

CEO:
Dave Skofield wanted to make the Selectmen aware about the issues that are going on down at the mill is going hands down fast. He wants to be able to meet with Bill Kelly, the town attorney and get a revised ordinance in play to fix it so that it would work. Mr. Grassi’s attorney has already contacted him and Dave wants it .in time for the town meeting. He is working with the DEP and the state. Clint made a motion for Dave to continue doing a good job and to contact the town attorney, Bill Kelly. Brian Jones seconds the motion, motion made and carried. All in favor. Dave received an e mail from Grassi’s attorney and there are about 15 issues that need to be tended to.

SOLID WASTE DIRECTOR/REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVE:

Meredith Coffin welcomed Hilary Fleming as her assistant. They will be working together. Unity Area Cycling Center passed their annual budget to $166,916.00and it’s the third year in a row that they have dropped. Our bill is due 4/1/2012 in the amount of $5,349.70. She and Hilary went through the large packet they received from Brian and also Gary Stacey from PERC itself talking about GAT, The big thing to watch for is the GAT (guaranteed annual tonnage). The Budget committee has been asking how we can save money because our solid waste is huge. The big thing to watch for is the GAT trading period. (Guaranteed annual tonnage) which we missed last year and this year we want to be sure to send in our little ticket. Last year was the first time they imposed a penalty and we would like to avoid that. Right now we are unchanged at 250 tons. This year we would like to reduce our GAT so that we can know how much we can lower it by, Meredith has copies for the Selectmen and will send her report to Doug Van Horn. Regarding all the information she spoke about at the meeting. A lengthy discussion was held regarding tonnage, dumpsters, etc. We have a three year contract with Gerry Sullivan. The board will negotiate the contract with Sullivan. Ron thought a scale on Gerry’s truck would be helpful and he would weigh each dumpster. (He collects from several different towns and fills up his truck). Ron supports Gerry and stated that the cost would be a major consideration. We cannot expect Gerry to negotiate his contract until it’s up in two years. In the meantime we should think about what will happen at that time.
Increasing garbage stickers is a good idea and PERC is much cheaper then Sullivan’s.

ROAD COMMISSIONER:

ROAD COMMISSIONER:

No report except we have 1/3 of the sand left and it depends where you buy the sand on the cost per yard. Clint feels we don’t need to get more sand now, for he wants to get to the bottom of the pile and use up all the sand that has been there. Ron suggested that we buy 2 new bed chairs. The chains on the trucks are bad, they need to be replaced or links be replaced. Clint will take care of what needs to be done.

GENERAL ASSISTANCE OFFICER;

There was one applicant and he did not qualify for poverty abatement... The property owner is dead, the person lives on the property, and it is in probate.
Therefore it cannot be granted.

HEALTH OFFICIAL:

Ron Price reported that everyone is healthy!

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT DIRECTOR:

An office will be partitioned in the back part of the trailer for our EMD.
Glen Spore is working on that... There is wood in the snack shack to make the patrician,

BI-CENTINELLE COMMITTEE:

Moving along slowly but being worked on.

COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING COMMITTEE:

David Bridges, Chairman of the committee sent a letter to Sallyann to post in the column and in the newspaper. He also requested that the Board of Selectmen send out a letter to the resident’s. It will be on the ballot; you can read it on line or pay $5.00 per copy from the Town Office.

CEMETERY COMMITTEE:

John Willett is willing to work on the committee but does not want to be in charge. If you know of anyone that would like to be a supervisor, call the Town Office.

BUDGET COMMITTEE:

Is moving ahead and dealing with a lot of issues. They are trying to come up with a budget that will be friendly to our mill rate which is going to be tough. Next meeting will be on Wednesday, February 1, 2012 starting at 6:30 at the Town Office.

OLD BUSINESS:

Several abatements were settled, and other then that no other old business.

NEW BUSINESS:

We received a copy of a letter from Knox to Brooks regarding the fee schedule. Brooks sent out a sales proposal to the town of Knox and we also did the same thing. They will present it at their Town Meeting we are requesting a total of $6, 600.00.

Next Selectmen’s meeting will be February 13, 2012 starting at 6:00 p.m. at the Town Office.

Ron Price approved the minutes as amended and Clint Spaulding seconds it.
The meeting was adjourned by Ron Price and second by Clint Spaulding at 8:18 PM. Motion made and carried. All were in favor.

Respectfully submitted,

Sallyann Hadyniak
Acting Secretary

APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
JANUARY 16, 2012

Chairman Price called the meetin
g to order at 6 PM, with the following present: Selectmen Ron Price, Clint Spaulding, and Brian Jones. Also Town attorneys Bill Kelly and Kristen Collins, Scott Holmes (ACO), Dave Schofield (CEO), Erna Keller (Treasurer), Jim Waterman (Fire Chief), Tony Grassi, Dave Bridges (Comp. Plan), Chris Spaulding, Myrick Cross, Sallyann Hadyniak, and Glen Bridges (Sec.)

REVIEW MINUTES: The minutes from Dec. 29, 2011 and Jan. 2, 2012 were approved, with the correction of fire equipment SCVA to SCBA (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus).

OLD BUSINESS: Brian introduced Bill Kelly and his associate, Kristen Collins, who wrote Freedom’s recent moratorium, to Toni Grassi. Bill Kelly is here to provide guidance regarding the moratorium and Toni Grassi’s proposed mill renovation.
Bill advised that water dependent uses could be given a different setback, or spot-zoning in the Comprehensive Plan, Shoreland Zoning, and Commercial Development Review Ordinance.
Since the moratorium has lapsed, the Town would have to hold a special Town meeting to create a new one. A particular project, such as Tony Grassi”s, could be exempted. If nothing is done, and a building permit is applied for, there is a 45 day retroactivity available for a moratorium. Brian inquired if that is prejudicial; Bill replied no. However, it would be prejudicial if substantial money had been spent on project construction.
Retroactivity has recently been limited by State statute to 45 days from the date
of the ordinance being enacted.
Clint asked about the water extraction project, which is all developed. State permits have lapsed. The business has not been active because it is well water instead of spring water. In a moratorium, “new use” should be defined as opposed to “old use”.
Bill said what is already developed is grandfathered. If the Town were to pass an ordinance prohibiting artesian water being sold, he would consider it a “taking”. You can put into an ordinance that any use that is not active for a 12-month period is no longer permitted.
The water extraction project is ready to run but hasn’t been started because of marketing issues; Bill thinks this use would be grandfathered. Brian asked if you can go back and revisit the possibility of damage to local roads, could you impose impact fees?
Kristen replied that impact fees are very specifically controlled by State statute.
Dave Schofield asked if the Town could pass an ordinance limiting the amount of water extracted? Kristen said yes, but Bill said this is limited by having to have a rational basis, some scientific fact backed up by a qualified expert.
Ron pointed out there are 9 wells on the property, rated by the state for 10,000 gallons per day. When the Town did have an ordinance, Dave Pottle agreed to limit it to 5,000 gal per day. Bill Kelly said that when the State regulates a specific use like this, State law would trump municipal law. Town ordinances can be more strict than State if the State or Federal law allows for it. Bill said Home Rule is granted by the State; likewise they can take it away.
Ron directed the conversation to Tony Grassi’s project. Ron thinks the Town needs to give Tony a definitive answer so he can go ahead.
Brian moved to not extend the lapsed Commercial/Industrial moratorium, and to not call a special Town meeting to create a new moratorium. Clint seconded; motion passed unanimously.
Discussion followed with Tony Grassi. His plan would replicate the footprint of the mill. Dave S. mentioned there will be a lot of Shoreland Zoning issues. Tony said separate permitting processes would be required for the restoration of the mill and the hydroelectric generation.
Bill asked if a zero setback would help Tony’s project; Tony replied that the footprint would be replicated. The costs are not working out with costs he’s just been given. If he can qualify for tax credits, he might be able to make it work. Bill recommended putting in a zero setback, or “spot zoning” in the Shoreland Zoning Ordinance.
Ron asked Tony if he expects to be paying taxes to the Town? Yes, although it could be affected by being set up as a not-for-profit, but that doesn’t work very well for the project.
Brian mentioned a letter from the ME Historic Preservation Commission saying that the mill property is being considered. Would comment from the Select Board or Historical Society be helpful in pursuing being listed? It couldn’t hurt, Tony replied, but they are mainly looking to see if anyone objects. Being listed doesn’t preserve the building by any regulation, but without it Tony can’t make the tax credits work
Dave S. asked which ordinance to amend with a zero setback; Bill replied Shoreland Zoning. Bill mentioned that he doesn’t agree with Deidre Schneider of DEP that the project is not a water dependent use. Tony wondered which district the mill is in; Dave S. replied Limited Commercial. Glen mentioned that Deidre said she would classify a bakery as “light commercial”.
Bill & Kristen left at 7 PM.

FIRE CHIEF: Jim asked if we’ve heard back from Knox. No. Jim asked if there was a date yet for him to appear at the Budget Committee. A tentative date was scheduled for 1/25/12. Jim also asked for authorization to buy a new Porter-Cable air compressor on E-Bay for $399. Ron said he would like to look into this, check with Northern Tool, and get back to Jim.

ACO: Scott reported he tried to trap and shoot a skunk at Cross’s, but missed. He picked up a stray dog on Mitchell Rd and a cat in Town, both taken to the shelter. He got a call about a raccoon full of porcupine quills. He advised the caller to put the raccoon down (the caller did not want to do that).
Ron asked Scott if he is obligated to answer calls for wildlife. Scott said he’s been told both yes and no. Ron also reiterated “firearms and Town Officials don’t mix”. Scott said the Select Board needs to authorize him to use any weapons or he is prohibited. Brian confirmed that the Board needs to come up with some protocol for Scott using any weapons. Scott said he wouldn’t want to approach a rabid raccoon without a gun.

TREASURER: Erna reported:
Payroll Jan. 2, 2012……………………………………………..$1501.54
Payroll Jan. 7, 2012………………………………………..……$1945.67
A/P Jan. 6……………………………………………………………$44,522.68
(includes Jan. RSU 3 payment)
Beginning checkbook balance……………………………….$173,802.96
A/P (Accounts Payable) this week………………………….$15,908.95
Ending checkbook balance…………………………………….$157,894.01

Erna will be away from Feb. 10-19. She will do the A/P on Feb. 9th, and Cindy can do the payroll. The W2s are done and 1099s are next.
Vernice will be here tomorrow morning, Jan. 17th, and the Selectmen should be here to decide which accounts to roll over. Brian said he can’t make it.
The Selectmen moved, seconded, and voted to sign all the warrants.

CEO: No business is happening other than the Grassi project questions. Ron asked if someone wants to build a house, do they need a Plumbing Permit before they can get a building permit ? Dave said an approved subsurface septic design is needed to get the building permit. He thinks earth work, without any foundation construction, does not require a permit.

ROAD COMMISSIONERS: Clint reported that the Town needs to be thinking ahead about what to do about a truck for the future. There has been repeated trouble with the power steering lines on the truck. Seven or eight power steering hoses have been replaced since last year at $117 a piece.
The Town garage does not have adequate lighting, and is due for another inspection in March. Also, used oil can be more safely stored outside. A storage building is needed.
Brian moved to authorize Clint to purchase adequate lighting for the Town Garage to pass inspection; Ron seconded; motion passed. Ron said he’d like to see some figures before expenditure is made.
Brian moved to authorize Clint to have the Garage insulation finished; motion passed.
The Budget Committee wants to meet Wednesday, Jan 18 with Public Works.

GENERAL ASSISTANCE: Brian reported one applicant who didn’t qualify. Brian needs to know when the original GA ordinance was adopted; he will call the State to see if they have the information.

SCHOOL DIRECTOR: No report; Myrick Cross had to leave the meeting.

EMD: There is a training Jan. 30 which Selectmen should attend. The Select Board will meet Tues., Jan 31.

PLANNING BOARD: The Board is still working on a new ordinance, and meets Jan. 19 at 6:30.

RECREATION COMMITTEE: Brian reported that he wants to start on a skating rink. If he can’t find someone to donate plowing, then it won’t happen. Erna suggested creating a rink on the ground to avoid danger from snowmobiles.

PUBLIC WORKS: Clint called Lane for an estimate for paving per mile, information needed by the Budget Committee in order to discuss a long-range road improvement plan.
Tim Varney was quoted as saying a mile of 20’ road with 1” of asphalt = 650 tons at $750 per ton. Eighteen miles = $877,000.
The Town needs an inventory of Town culverts. Steel culverts last 20-25 years.
Plastic culverts last 75-100 years.

CORRESPONDENCE: Brian & Erna will take care of the Local government Finance Survey. Brian received a package for insurance coverage with certificate from MMA Casualty Pool. Regarding MMA insurance, Ron said we should be getting a reduced rate now that the audits are up to date. Ron will call MMA Casualty Pool.
Brian received an estimate from Barbara Vanderventer regarding Freedom’s tax rate resulting from the wind turbines inclusion in the State evaluation, with 2 options, assuming the school budget stays the same.
1. If State keeps existing mill rate, our increase would be $70,911.
2. If the State increases their mill rate, Freedom’s school share would increase
by $82,962.
Brian roughly estimated that would mean a 1.5 mill increase in Freedom.
PERC has notified the town that the tipping fees will be $76.50/ton.

OLD BUSINESS: Brian reported he met with Jackie Robbins after meeting with a couple of property owners. Mr. Bachrach wants to meet with the CEO and Selectmen.
Nancy Bailey had an abatement in 2010 that was not carried over; it should have been corrected in the records.
Brian moved to hold Assessors meetings/Selectmen’s work sessions on Mondays between regular meetings at 4 PM. Ron seconded; motion passed.

NEW BUSINESS: Brian raised the question of maintenance to buildings. Discussion followed about having the road crew work on buildings or other projects for less money, meaning they lose about $4/hour working on buildings. Ron pointed out that the office needs interior painting. Clint said overtime is not allowed. Brian thought this would be a good topic for a work session. Speaking of hours, Erna said the office time clock is missing.
Another discussion, what to do about the extra radio that came with the new fire truck, was tabled.
Chris Spaulding agreed to do the snow shoveling at the Town Office and Annex.
Brian said a sealed barrel has turned up at the Town Landing. Ron will call Jerry Sullivan.
Brian asked Glen to ask Cindy to post the change in Board meeting date from 1/30 to 1/31, and the new work sessions at 4 PM on Mondays between regular meetings.

Tuesday morning, Jan 17, meet with Vernice.
Meet Wednesday at noon Jan 18 with Jackie Robbins.
Emergency Management Training Jan. 30, 6 PM (check time & place)
Next Select Board meeting Jan. 31 at 6 PM.
Assessors/Selectmen work sessions every other Monday at 4 PM, starting Jan 23.

Motion to adjourn at 8:06 PM.

Respectfully submitted,
Glen Bridges, Secretary

APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
JANUARY 2, 2012

CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Price called the meeting to order at 6:11, with the following present: Selectmen Ron Price, Clint Spaulding, and Brian Jones. Also Dave Bridges (Comp. Plan), Chris Spaulding, Meredith Coffin (Solid Waste Director), Myrick Cross, Erna Keller (Treasurer), Cindy Abbott (Town Clerk), Glenn & Donna Sporie, Bob Hermon, Sallyann Hadyniak, and Glen Bridges (Secretary).

FVFD: Ron reported for Jim Waterman that the bill for repairing the fire truck pump came to $7696.82. The department is in need of a new air compressor.

ROAD COMMISSIONERS: Brian reported the roads look good, but warm weather has caused rutting on some roads such as Smithton.

GENERAL ASSISTANCE: One case is pending.

SOLID WASTE: Meredith reported that Hilary Fleming has accepted the position of Alternate Solid Waste Director. Brian moved to appoint Hilary for a 3 year term. Clint seconded, motion passed.
Meredith asked Aaron Paul the question Ron had previously asked: if UARRC’s recycling products are so clean, can we get a better price? Aaron said no, but we are assured that they want our product.
Aaron is sending a letter to 13 area non-member towns to offer them associate memberships (Albion, Belmont, Burnham, Carmel, Newburgh, Monroe, Stockton Springs, Liberty, Stetson, Waldo, Etna, Glenburn, Swanville). Meredith asked for references to contact. Kathy Littlefield in Waldo, Beverly Bradstreet, Albion, and John Krueger of Liberty, were mentioned.
Meredith is planning to go to the Budget Cmte. Meeting Wednesday. Brian asked about the future for cost cutting on waste management. Discussion followed and various ideas were exchanged. Our 3 year contract with Sullivans runs for 2 more years.

SCHOOL BOARD REP: Ron said the Town needs a nominee; Myrick Cross expressed interest, and will take out papers.

EMD: There will be a Waldo County Emergency Management Disaster Exercise and Program Jan. 30 from 6-8 PM, which Clint suggested Selectmen attend. [Secretary’s note: A select Board meeting is also scheduled for that Monday night]

TAX COLLECTOR: Cindy reported that receipts from the new computer are not printing properly. They don’t show which amounts go to which accounts, nor do they print a yellow duplicate for the customer. Brian explained the new computer program is not compatible with the receipt printer. She will call TRIO to see what they recommend, and also had a couple of prices from Staples on the cost of a new receipt printer ($299 and $499). Vernice advised to use only one computer for transactions.
Clint moved to authorize Cindy to investigate what it would cost to solve this problem, and Brian added to the motion to authorize Cindy to make an appropriate purchase to be approved by two Selectmen. Ron seconded; motion passed.
The Pitney-Bowes postage meter contract is due to be renewed. Since the current machine has been troublesome, Cindy suggested spending $1.50 per month more to rent a new meter. Clint moved, seconded by Ron, to sign the contract for the new meter. Motion passed.

BICENTENNIAL COMMITTEE: The committee meets Jan 10 at 7 PM, and is still looking for new members.

RECREATION COMMITTEE: Brian described his idea for having a Town ice-skating rink. The Town would probably have to pay to have an area plowed, and the FVFD could flood it. Cindy pointed out that it would have to be well marked to keep skaters safe from snowmobiles, and separated from ice fishermen.

PLANNING BOARD: Glen reported the next meeting is Jan. 10 at 6:30 PM.
Ron revisited the issue of having Planning Board minutes submitted instead of a verbal report. He moved to continue having Planning Board reports given as in the past. Motion passed unanimously.
Brian moved to have the Planning Board minutes be submitted. Ron seconded, but after discussion, withdrew his second. Glen pointed out that the Planning Board minutes are in a loose leaf on the counter, and offered to simply provide the book. Brian expressed concern that a verbal report could be biased; Ron replied that any committee report could be biased.

CEMETERY COMMITTEE: Ron repeated that a chairman is needed for this committee.

APPEALS BOARD: Dave reported that no meeting has been held; Ron replied that one should be held following Town meeting.

COMP. PLAN COMMITTEE: The vote will be March 9th; the Board will send out a supportive letter to the Town.

BUDGET COMMITTEE: Meets Wednesday, Jan. 4 at 7 PM.

OLD BUSINESS: With the moratorium expired, Clint doesn’t think the Selectmen should decide something that he sees as a Town matter. Brian repeated the advice from Kristin Collins, who said the “airtight” way to do it would be a Town meeting; if the Selectmen extended it, it could be challenged.
Brian moved to call a special Town Meeting to put it before the Town to extend the moratorium. Motion failed for lack of second. Ron doubts an expired moratorium can be extended.
Clint pointed out that a new business venture is coming to Town, and the water extraction business is grandfathered. He’d like to find out from Bill Kelly if the moratorium would prevent any small business from coming to Freedom.
Brian feels that the Town has the right and responsibility to regulate commercial development, and may petition for another moratorium. He read from the ordinance to clarify what is exempt, which listed home occupations and professional services.
Ron moved to have Bill Kelly come to the Jan. 16th meeting to advise the Board. Motion passed; Ron mentioned that it could be Kelly would send Kristen Collins.
Glen asked about having a 3 month moratorium as a compromise.
Clint suggested drafting a moratorium that would be specifically aimed at real industrial businesses.
Dave Bridges expressed his opinion that the moratorium is driving away any potential business, tax relief, and is unnecessary. He suggested all this energy be put toward attracting productive development.
Brian said he was elected to represent the will of the Town, and would like the Town to decide on another moratorium.

NEW BUSINESS: Clint brought up the problem of the heat in the Annex being left on when the building is not being used, wasting fuel. Chairs of committees need to be notified to be responsible to turn the heat back down at the end of a meeting.
Brian took the Select Board office computer to Belfast Ccomputers for repair; it could cost $150-200.

The next meeting is Jan. 16th, 2012 at 6 PM.

Motion to adjourn at 7:35 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Glen Bridges, Secretary