SELECTMEN’S MEETING MINUTES for  JULY 23, 2012

The Board of Selectmen met for their weekly meeting at 6:30 p. m. at the Campton Town Office.  Present were Selectmen, Charles Wheeler, Charles Cheney, Craig Keeney, Sharon Davis and Marsh Morgan.  The Board signed the manifest and reviewed the bills.  They signed 1 Building Permit approval and 1 denial and 2 Timber Tax Warrants.

Members of the public who were in attendance at this meeting but were not on the agenda were:  R. Reitsma, Rick Davis, Sandy Morgan, J.D. McGarr, and Ashley Hogan.

At 6:45 p.m. Chair Keeney called the meeting to order and called for a Motion to approve the Minutes and Non Public Minutes of the Meeting on 7/9/12.  Selectman Davis made a Motion to approve the Minutes and Non Public Minutes. The Motion was seconded by Selectman Morgan, and the Minutes as written were unanimously approved.

Chair Keeney then called on Ann Marie to review correspondence as there was time available before the first appointment.  Ann Marie informed the Board that the first step regarding commencement of the wage study is that the Local Government Center would like to meet with the Board.  The Board agreed that they meet with them at the next Selectmen’s Meeting on August 6^th.

Ann Marie indicated after speaking with Sam Greene and Attorney Spector-Morgan it was confirmed that SNHS Management Corp is on the list of charitable organizations.  Selectman Morgan confirmed that when SNHS Management Corp came to the Planning Board they confirmed the taxes would be treated the same as they are in Ashland i.e. a payment in lieu of taxes.  A Motion was then made to take the property taxes of SNHS Management Corp M/L 04.11.005 off the tax list.  The Motion was seconded by Selectman Morgan and the Motion was unanimously approved.  The Board will discuss at a later date the percentage rate to be used “in lieu of taxes”.

Ann Marie indicated that Butch Bain, Road Agent would like to get the Boards approval to advertise for bids for paving on Parker Road, Beaver Brook Road and Colonel Spencer Road.  The Board unanimously agreed to the paving of the roads mentioned.

A letter was received from Jeanne Shaheen, U.S. Senator expressing to the Board to reach out to her office for any assistance that the Town might need.  Ann Marie indicated that a Representative from Senator Shaheen’s Office will be at the Town Office on September 7, 2012, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Ann Marie indicated that Wilbur Coffey spoke with her regarding that fact that there is a water problem that goes across the road from Cindy’s Lane and onto his property.  He explained that he would be willing to pay for a culvert if the Town would install it.  The Board agreed and Ann Marie will discuss with Butch Bain.

A notice was received from Local Government Center regarding their 25^th Annual Municipal Volunteer of the Year Awards.  Nominations must be submitted by August 31, 2012.

A memo was received from Hannah Joyce, Town Clerk Tax Collector regarding the fact that Suzanne Thomas has completed her six-month employment date and was now eligible for her $.50 an hour raise previously discussed at budget time.  The Board agreed.

Chair Keeney then called on Lisa Ash of Parks & Recreation.  Lisa explained that Parks & Recreation has a storage problem and they also have been moved from a 30×20 classroom to an 8×10 classroom due to the schools needs for the larger classroom.  Selectman Wheeler indicated that Jeff Carron from the Beckett School volunteered to construct a storage shed for P & R and gave Lisa his phone number to discuss further.  Lisa also stated that Carolee Miot will be moving to Nashua and will leave her employment in the spring.  Lisa indicated that because of tight budgets she will try to run the program on her own and get assistance from individuals to help.  She will keep the Board posted on how this works out.

Chair Keeney then called on Kelly Bolger to update the Board on the new Town Office building.  Kelly distributed to the Board the first pay out sheet with the contractor.  Kelly indicated that each time a pay out was done, the Board would receive this sheet and proceeded to explain the form.  The Board was impressed with the information.  Kelly also distributed the new floor plan for the Police Department.  Kelly indicated the need to view the vault in the existing Town Office.  Selectman Morgan will accompany Kelly for the vault viewing. Kelly also informed the Board that there were some stumps that needed to be removed from the new Town Office site and Butch Bain indicated that he would be willing to move them to the Town Garage. The Board agreed for the removal and also agreed that Kelly and Butch could arrange for the disposal of the stumps.

Chair Keeney then called on J.D. McGarr, Health Officer who indicated that there are a number of abandon homes in Campton that have health problems and asked the Board for help in resolving this problem.  Ann Marie will meet with J.D. to see what properties he is concerned about and check ownership of these homes to report back to the Board for further discussion.  J. D. also indicated the need to have a Deputy Health Officer and introduced Ashley Hogan to the Board and suggested that she be appointed the Deputy Health officer.  J.D. indicated that Ashley has gone on inspections with him and is the right fit for the position.  The Board discussed with Ashley her background and willingness to take the position.  A Motion was then made by Selectman Davis to appoint Ashley Hogan as Deputy Health Officer.  The Motion was seconded by Selectman Wheeler and Ashley Hogan was unanimously appointed Deputy Health Officer.

Chair Keeney then called on Police Chief Warn as their next appointment.  Chief Warn indicated that the Livermore Falls area has become a problem with more and more people using the facility and there is now a parking problem.  Chief Warn informed the Board that he will be presenting an ordinance for no parking on Livermore Road and signage to indicate that.  Also, there is a public safety problem and littering issues.  Chief Warn explained that he has attended several meetings with the Town of Holderness and Plymouth and with Ray Burton and a number of other individuals concerning the area.  The goal is to have the area become a state park and he will keep the Board informed of any progress.  This property is State owned.

At 7:30 p.m. Selectman Davis made a Motion to go into Non public Session under RSA 91-A: 3, ll (b) regarding a personnel matter.  Selectman Wheeler seconded the Motion and with a roll call vote:  Selectman Davis – aye, Selectman Morgan – aye, Selectman Wheeler – aye, Selectman Cheney – aye, and Selectman Keeney – aye, the Board went into Non Public Session. At 7:35 p.m. the Board came out of Non Public Session and the Minutes were sealed.

At 7:35 pm. Chair Keeney called for another Motion to go into Non Public Session. Selectman Davis made a Motion to go into Non Public Session under RSA91-A: 3 ll(c) concerning a personnel issue.  Selectman Wheeler seconded the Motion and with a roll call vote:  Selectman Davis –aye, Selectman Morgan – aye, Selectman Wheeler – aye, Selectman Cheney – aye, and Selectman Keeney – aye, the Board went into Non Public Session.  At 7:40 p.m. the Board came out of Non Public Session and the Minutes were sealed.

Chair Keeney then called upon Matt Moore as the next appointment for the evening.  Matt was happy to report that he made reference calls to prequalify contractors regarding the Blair Bridge and all 4 contractors had good references.  Matt explained that he did not make reference calls for Stan Graton and Arnold Graton as the Board is familiar with both contractors and is pleased with their performance.  The Board reviewed the references of all 4:  Alpine Construction, Blow & Cote, Northern Construction and Wright Construction.  Matt explained that based on the reference information, he recommended pre-qualifying all six construction companies.    The Board agreed.

There was also discussion concerning the sink holes at the Blair Bridge.  The DOT sent a letter stating that the holes were within the wing walls and it is the Town’s obligation to fix.  Matt Moore suggested that the DOT report be forwarded to Sean James.  It was also decided that no signage be put on Route 93 when the repairs begin.  Ann Marie indicated she is still trying to get in touch with Mr. Allen regarding an easement that Sean James previously suggested.

Chair Keeney then continued the meeting with Other Business – Selectmen’s Input.  Ann Marie distributed the Employee’s Handbook that Dan Crean revised for the Board to review.  Ann Marie also stated that the mail problem has been resolved.  The Town Clerk/Tax Collector’s Office will call the Selectman’s Office when a certified letter needs to be signed for.

A discussion ensued with regards to a petition received by the Selectmen relative to the new office building.  During the discussion, it was once again noted that the Selectmen have the authority pursuant to RSA 41: ll(a) to manage all real property owned by the Town and to regulate its use.  It was also noted that a public forum on the reallocation of office space was held on June 25, 2012 at the Campton Historical Society facility and it was felt that there was no reason to call another meeting.  Accordingly, upon Motion duly made and seconded, “it was unanimously voted that the Selectmen will not hold another meeting.”  Selectman Wheeler indicated that he spoke with individuals who had signed the Petition and they indicated that if it saves the Town money, they were all for it so he was confused as to why they signed it.

Chair Keeney indicated that he has been dealing with the Forestry Service regarding the Snowmobile Club and was happy to report that he found the Forestry Service to be cooperative.

Chair Keeney then called on Mr. Reitsma, who was present at the meeting and he inquired as to the status of the Beebe River Village District Precinct.  Selectman Wheeler explained that the Board has some options to work with to resolve the problems that have arisen, and he assured Mr. Reitsma that the public will be made aware of the Board’s decisions as soon as they are made.

There being no further business, Chair Keeney declared the meeting adjourned at 8:12 p.m.

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

Eleanor M. Dewey,

Office Assistant to Ann Marie Foote, Town Administrator

 

SELECTMEN’S MEETING MINUTES FOR JULY 9, 2012

The Board of Selectmen met for their weekly meeting at 6:30 p. m. at the Campton Town Office.  Present were Selectmen, Charles Wheeler, Charles Cheney, Craig Keeney, Sharon Davis and Marsh Morgan.  The Board signed the manifest and reviewed the bills.  They signed 1 Notice of Intent to Cut, 3 Building Permits, 1 Health Officer Nomination, 1 Local River Management Advisory Committee Nomination and 1 letter to the Campton Postmaster.

Members of the public who were in attendance at this meeting were: Kevin Joyce, Audrey Johnson, Heidi Johnson and Police Chief Warn.

At 6:45 p.m. Chair Keeney called the meeting to order and called for a Motion to approve the Minutes of the Meeting on 6/25/2012.  After a revision made by Selectman Davis and Selectman Wheeler, Selectman Morgan made a Motion to approve the revised Minutes. The Motion was seconded by Selectman Wheeler, and the revised Minutes were unanimously approved.

Chair Keeney then called on Ann Marie to review correspondence.  Ann Marie indicated a letter was received acknowledging receipt of the letter sent to Premier of Quebec, Mr. Jean Charest, signed by the Board voicing their concerns regarding the Northern Pass Project.  The response letter acknowledged that Mr.Charest is under the mandate of Mr. Clement Gignac, Minister of Natural Resources and Wildlife, and that a copy of the Board’s letter was being forwarded to him for his consideration.

A letter was received from Time Warner Cable indicating that certain local stations may be lost, i.e. WMUR and Ann Marie reminded Selectman Cheney (as Chairman of the Cable Committee) that a public hearing has to be held before December regarding the negotiations of the cable contract.

A letter was received from Attorney John Curran regarding the case of Steve Dunshee v. Town of Campton and Robert Burhoe, Sr. notifying the Town that the case is being set for trial for January 2013 and he needs to set up a meeting with the Fire Chief and the Road Agent to acquire more information so he can file a summary judgment motion in order to seek dismissal of the Town in this case.

Beverly Chappel sent the statistics regarding the notice the Public Hearing scheduled 6/25/12.  239 e-mails were sent, and 101 of the e-mails were opened and 41 were returned with no longer valid e-mail addresses.

Primex sent notification of a credit of $10,337.71 due the Town as the Town qualifies for their “Premium Holiday” requirements concerning the workers’ compensation premium.

North Country Public Safety Foundation sent a nomination form for submission for their 5^th Annual North Country Public Safety Foundation Awards that Ann Marie will pass on to Fire Chief Tobine and Police Chief Warn for their review and possible submission.

Ann Marie indicated that the next Loss Safety Committee Meeting will be held on July 18^th, at 2:00 p.m. and Wynette DeGroot will be giving additional training on Sexual Harassment in the Workplace (a mandatory training that the Local Government Center (LGC) advises the Town to do once a year).   Ann Marie also stated that the LGC also sent her a thank letter for participating in the LGC focus group meeting that was recently held in Plymouth.

A letter was received from NH Division of Historical Resources stating that the Norman & Marion Perry House (now owned by the Demers) in Campton will soon be considered by the NH State Historical Resources Council for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places.

The Campton Historical Society newsletter was received and it was noted that the members of the Campton Old Home Day Committee are making plans for the annual Old Home Day event to be held on August 4^th.

Attorney Spector-Morgan sent a copy of the Town’s Objection to Motion for Intervention and Other Relief regarding the matter of the Town, JFF/SWF LLC and Beebe River Village District.

Southern NH Elderly Housing has now provided further information and financial documentation regarding a tax exemption request and Attorney Spector-Morgan has reviewed this documentation.  It is now Attorney Spector-Morgan’s reverse opinion (after reviewing additional documentation that SNHED provided) that unless the Town wants to be a test case regarding this matter, the Town should grant the exemption at this time.  Selectman Morgan mentioned that when SNHEH went before the Planning Board it was the Planning Board’s understanding that they would be paying property taxes.  Selectman Morgan will have May review the Minutes of the Planning Board.  Also, Ann Marie stated she has placed a call to Sam Greene at the DRA concerning this matter. The Board agreed to wait until they hear from the DRA before making any decisions.

There being no further correspondence, Chair Keeney then called on Sean James and Matt Moore regarding the Blair Bridge Project.  Mr. James informed the Board that they are now in the final design stage and all permits are in order and they are working on the right-of-way certificate.  Mr. James also stated the deadline for the final plans is August 24^th, and they should be on schedule to go out for bid by the middle of September.

There was then discussion pertaining to signage on Route 93 to divert traffic to help alleviate a local traffic problem that Sean James will check into.  It was also suggested by Selectman Davis that the business owners of the Country Cow be invited to a Selectmen’s meeting to keep them informed on the project.  Chair Keeney also stated that the Board has made some suggested changes to the design and requested an update from Sean James on these issues.  Some of these discussed changes were:  how necessary the stainless rods are as opposed to a more economical material, the sprinkler system (using plastic, black iron or galvanized pipe), the siding, (making use of old siding vs. new).  The Board decided on new. The other changes were the possibility of narrowing the windows (the Board agreed) and there was also discussion regarding the “head knocker”.  Sean James will inquire with the state on the clearance requirements.  There was also discussion about a sink hole in the vicinity of the bridge (which was confirmed by Chief Warn) that needs to be addressed by the State.

Sean James also discussed the possibility of the Town also getting an easement on the West Shore (where foot traffic already exists) for possibly light equipment or just manpower.  Also, Selectman Morgan suggested staking the boundaries.  There was discussion about the on-site position (a 32-34 hours a week position overseeing the project).  Sean James stated the cost of this position is figured in the quote and it will be listed as a separate line item.

Sean informed the Board that 12 requests were received to apply for the construction project; however 8 were submitted, 3 did not meet the requirements and there are now 6 to review.  The Board agreed, along with Matt Moore, that Matt would make the calls on all references who submitted Prequalifications and he will get back to the Board in two weeks and then the Board will meet with Sean again to go forward with prequalification process.  The Board then thanked Mr. James and Mr. Moore for coming.

The Board then met with Matt Moore for further discussion. Mr. Moore discussed his concern for “saving money” and he was questioning whether or not the Board would be in need of any further services from him.  The Board decided that they would like to have Mr. Moore continue on board with the project and Mr. Moore agreed to do so.  Mr. Moore stated that he would discuss the 32-34 hour position more fully with Sean James.

At 7:55 p.m. the Board met with Kelly Bolger regarding an update on the Town Office Building.  Mr. Bolger informed the Board that when excavation began it was discovered that the site has stumps, asphalt, concrete and piping in the area.  Excavating was then stopped and a geo-technical engineer was called in to look at the site.  After digging 5 test pits the conclusion was that in order to have the area meet “virgin soil status”  some compaction soil needed to be hauled in and other soil on the site can be sifted.  Kelly will have a change order ready for signature this week in the amount of $36,000.00.  It is also confirmed that this amount is within the budget.  The Board agreed that either Chair Keeney or Selectman Davis (whoever is available) will have authorization to sign the change order.  Selectman Davis informed the Board that she now has more time available to assist with the building project and is willing to do so.

Kelly Bolger also updated the Board on the Fire Department meeting.  He indicated that Chief Tobine completed the grant for air apparatus for 100%.  The new ambulance grant in the amount of $200,000 is complete and the total contribution from each Town will be $13,000.   The Board then thanked Kelly for coming.

At 8:10 p.m. Selectman Davis made a Motion to go into Non public Session under RSA 91-A: 3, ll (b) regarding a personnel matter.  Selectman Wheeler seconded the Motion and with a roll call vote:  Selectman Davis – aye, Selectman Morgan – aye, Selectman Wheeler – aye, Selectman Cheney – aye, and Selectman Keeney – aye, the Board went into Non Public Session. At 8:20 p.m. the Board came out of Non Public Session and the Minutes were sealed.

Chair Keeney then continued the meeting with Other Business – Selectmen’s Input.  Selectman Davis inquired on the status of the wage study.  Ann Marie indicated that it was put on hold and the Board now agreed to commence with the wage study.

Ann Marie indicated that Butch Bain’s lap top came in and Kurt was able to get a good price for it.

Chair Keeney then called on Audrey Johnson, a Hebron resident and mother of Hannah Joyce, Town Clerk/Tax Collector.  Audrey indicated that the Board made a decision for “repurposing” of the new Town Office building in the amount of “over a million dollars” without holding a special Town meeting and the public is furious.  Audrey asked the Board to reconsider and schedule a special Town meeting or she would do it by Petition from the public.  Audrey also stated that if the Board does not do something, “you are in for a fight.”   The Board then explained that they did consult with Town Attorney before any “repurposing” decision was made and it was confirmed that they had the authority to do so.  Selectman Cheney indicated that the Board meets every other Monday night throughout the summer and the public is certainly invited to express their opinions as they were at the forum held on 6/25/12.  Selectman Wheeler indicated that he has personally spoken with a number of residents and while at first they were not in favor of the “repurposing”, they did in the end change their minds after further discussion as to the reasons for the Board’s decision and agreed it is in the best interest of the Town.  Chair Keeney reiterated that an inquiry was made with the Town Attorney before the decision was made as to whether or not the Board had the authority to make the “repurposing” decision and the Town Attorney confirmed that they did have authority.

Audrey Johnson also inquired if the Town had a resume on file for Kelly Bolger.  Mr. Bolger is volunteering his services and has an extensive background in the field.

There being no further business, Chair Keeney declared the meeting adjourned at 8:25 p.m.

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

Eleanor M. Dewey,

Office Assistant to Ann Marie Foote, Town Administrator

 

Campton Conservation Commission Meeting Minutes For June 13, 2012; 7:30pm

Members present: Jane Kellogg, Lea Stewart, Tammy Wooster

Others present: Campton resident Alisoun Hodges

It was Lea’s turn to run the meeting which was opened with the acceptance of last month’s minutes. Jane made a motion to approve the May meeting minutes and Lea seconded the motion. All were in favor. Tammy showed the group a binder she brought containing hard copies of all of the past CCC meeting minutes since she has been Secretary. The binder will reside on the bookcase to be used for reference during future meetings.

 

1)      Bog Pond Mail Responses:

On May 23^rd a work session was held to prepare the Bog Pond outreach letter for sending. Letters with response postcards and self addressed stamped envelopes were sent to about 27 Bog Pond Area landowners.  Jess compiled a summary of the 5 responses received to date which were reviewed by the group. One of the landowners made reference to Robartwood Pond which Jane believed to be the NH Fish & Game name for the pond. The remaining responses revealed an interest in learning about the Wildlife Action Plan, conservation easements and sharing wildlife sightings and knowledge. One respondent politely expressed having other priorities at this time.

All agreed that based on meeting availability feedback any planned gathering should take place on a Friday afternoon. Pat Barker’s response was the most comprehensive and she graciously offered to host a meeting at her home. Discussion of whether to wait for more responses before planning a meeting was had and names of landowners who were expected to respond but hadn’t yet were brainstormed. It was decided to tentatively schedule a meeting for August 17^th and Jane will contact Pat Barker to accept her offer and see if this date works for her. In the meantime, Jane will call or e-mail a few of those who hadn’t responded in writing but had previously expressed an interest in meeting. A work session was also scheduled for July 3^rd, 7pm at Jane’s house. The focus of the work group will be to review the Wildlife Action Plan Website and view the GIS maps together in preparation for the Bog Pond Landowner meeting. All agreed that it would be beneficial for CC members to begin reviewing the plan on their own and Tammy will e-mail the link to all. Alisoun suggested we ask someone from Fish & Game to speak to the group about the Wildlife Action Plan relative to Bog Pond. Tammy will call Fish & Game to see if this is a possibility. Lea suggested that if Fish & Game agrees to speak to the group, a new mailing to landowners might be a good idea. As a final note, Jane said that Ann Marie had communicated that the Select Board were supportive of the Bog Pond outreach initiative.

2)      Website Updates:

Jess recently mentioned to Jane that the CCC website information needs updating, in particular Brian Middlekauff and Melissa Greenawalt-Yelle need to be removed from the membership list. Tammy said that she will ask Beverly Chappell to make the changes but noted that Beverly is currently immersed in making the switch from PC to Mac and it may take some time.

3)      FYI:

1. a.       Livermore Falls Update:
   

On March 22^nd Jane and Tammy attended a meeting to address issues relative to Livermore Falls at the request of Holderness Select Board and Conservation Commission member Shelagh Connelly. The Town of Holderness has been expending significant resources dealing with safety and littering issues in this area and is working to secure assistance. The meeting was mostly attended by law enforcement officials from many agencies including local and State Police, Fish & Game, and the Division of Forest and Lands. Grafton County Executive Councilor Ray Burton also attended as well as a representative from DRED. Discussion focused on whose responsibility it was to manage the property which turns out is complicated since the property is not being used in accordance with its original intent. The Livermore Falls Beach area is a Fish & Game property but was initially established as a fish hatchery and has evolved into a swimming and recreation area popular with college students and vacationers. DRED is involved because it manages the downstream pumpkinseed bridge which people jump off of into the river. When asked if the bridge should be removed, the DRED representative said that the bridge has historic significance in that is the last of its kind remaining standing in place in the world.  Illegal drinking, parking, public safety and littering were all discussed as major issues and small steps have already been taken to resolve some of them including litter cleanup work days and new signage. Consensus was that patrols needed to be ramped up on hot days and all of the law enforcement groups agreed to do their part. The formation of a “Friends” group consisting of local volunteers was discussed and many at the meeting cited examples of this being an effective management tool at other popular recreation areas. . Jane suggested that if a friends group is established, the CCC should be a part of it.

1. Nature Nights Program:

Lea reported that she was successfully able to secure the $500 needed to give to the Rey Center in support of the Nature Nights program thanks to the generosity of donors. Donations were provided by Leah Gray, Woodpeckers, Frank Freeman, Ski Fanatics, The Halm Family, Ehlers Management Group, Mountain Mapping, and three anonymous donors.  Lea will send thank you notes to the donors. All were pleased with her successful fundraising effort. During the fundraising time period the CC sought advice from the Local Gov’t. Center (LGC) regarding the legal use of the Conservation Fund because the Select Board recommended against using CF funds to support the Nature Nights program. The group reviewed the LGC letter of response which confirmed that this was an appropriate expenditure. All agreed that the letter will substantiate future CF expenditures in support of educational programs and negates a precedent being set to require fundraising.

1. Mail:

Newsletters were received from the Squam Lakes Conservation Society and the DES Groundwater and Drinking Water Bureau. Also received was a copy of the Blair Bridge Wetlands permit which was filed with the rest of the Blair Bridge application package.  Tammy reported that she read in the Select Board minutes that an invasive species survey was completed by a private consulting firm as part of the Blair Bridge repairs project. The report identified one plant of Japanese Barberry present in the Southwest quadrant.

1. d.      Other:

Jane shared that she had recently dug up some young Japanese Knotweed plants in 3 or 4 spots at the BWNA which were bagged and disposed of.

At the end of the meeting,   Alisoun Hodges was asked if she was interested in joining the CC to which she responded yes.  Alisoun described her background as having worked for the Squam Lakes Society and the Loon Preservation Society. Alisoun also served as Holderness Town Clerk and currently works at the Forest Service in Visitor Information Services. All were pleased to welcome Alisoun and Jane made a motion to ask the Select Board to appoint Alisoun Hodges to the Conservation Commission for a 3 year term effective immediately. Tammy seconded the motion and all were in favor. Lea will communicate Alisoun’s interest in joining the commission to Ann Marie.

 

Meeting adjourned: 9:10pm

Next meeting: July 11^th; 7:30pm

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

Tammy Wooster