February 11, 2003
The regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held at 7:30 P.M. in the Sharon Town Offices with Chair Allen M. Garf, Selectmen Norman Katz and Walter Joe Roach and Town Administrator Benjamin E. Puritz.
The meeting was called to order at 7:35 P.M.
Minutes
VOTED: (Katz/Roach) Voted unanimously to approve the Minutes of February 11, 2003 including Executive Session.
Board of Health Update
Andrew Stead, Chair of the Board of Health and Suzi Peck were present to update the Board re activities of their Board. Items discussed included:
Title V Septic Systems and Inspections Overview
Restaurant Inspections
Enforcement of State and Local rules and regulations re public health
New local regulations for artificial nails, body art, cosmetics, branding, etc.
Flu & Blood Pressure Clinics
Training for Health Administrator and Public Health Nurse in Terrorism and Emergency Planning
Lake Testing Program
Trash Collection - Emphasize more recycling
Tobacco Control Program Cutback
Septic System Loan System - Out of money
Long range plans to propose alternative septic systems
Traffic Control Agreement - North and South Main Street
The Board reviewed letter and agreements forwarded by Charles F. Sterling, State Traffic Engineer, dated February 4, 2003. Ben Puritz stated that this timely execution of this agreement is necessary to move forward on the North and South Main Street Improvement Project.
VOTED: (Katz/Roach) Voted unanimously to sign the Traffic Control Agreement with the Massachusetts Highway Department for the Federal Aid Project.
Request for Banner - First Congregational Church - December 1 - December 8, 2003
VOTED: (Katz/Roach) Voted unanimously to approve a banner for the First Congregational Church for the dates: December 1 - December 8, 2003.
Second Annual Michael C. Rothberg Memorial Race
The Board reviewed correspondence from Cathy Russo, Race Director, dated February 4, 2003 requesting that the Board give its approval for the race to be scheduled for September 21, 2003 at 9:00 a.m. The course will be the same used for the Fourth of July race.
VOTED: (Katz/Roach) Voted unanimously to approve the Second Annual Michael C. Rothberg Memorial Race subject to all the requirements of public safety (Police Chief issues Parade Permit).
Snow and Ice Budget Status
The Board reviewed a Memo from Eric R. Hooper, Superintendent of Public Works, dated January 7, 2003 and updated February 10, 2003 and concluded:
As of this date, the current FY03 budget amount of $126,177 for snow and ice related items, including contracted services, will have been exceeded at the end of this week by approximately $47,476.
Ben Puritz stated this is one budget item that is allowed to overrun.
On-Street Parking - Snow Storms
Selectman Roach reminded residents that on-street parking during a snow storm is not allowed and that cars can be subjected to being towed by the Police Department. Cars parked on the street during a snow storm add to the overtime hours expended for snow removal.
Request for Banner - Pop Warner
VOTED: (Katz/Roach) Voted unanimously to approve a banner for Sharon Pop Warner for the dates March 10 - March 18, 2003.
State Financial Analysis - Senator Brian Joyce
Senator Brian Joyce was present to discuss the state’s fiscal forecast. He outlined the economic phenomena that lead to the present crisis. He discussed declining revenue estimates and the State’s drawing upon much of its rainy day fund. He outlined measures taken by the State to balance the books in this fiscal year, but a $500 - $600 million deficit is still projected for the second half of the year. The forecast for FY 04 is that there will be a deficit in Fiscal Year 2004 that will exceed $2 billion and that this will impact all cities and towns with reductions in local aid. He further discussed proposals that may be considered to solve the budget crisis.
Rattlesnake Hill - Update - Senator Brian Joyce
Chair Garf recused himself from conversation on this subject. Senator Brian Joyce stated that the acquisition of Rattlesnake Hill was still being considered within the Environmental Bond Bill, but that the State would not bear all of the cost. Other funding sources were being approached. Further, he stated that the State may seek a portion of the property for housing, perhaps for age 55+.
Starbucks - Request for Live Music
The Board reviewed correspondence from Meagan MacQuame, requesting permission for live music one night a week, Friday nights from 7:00 - 9:00 P.M.
VOTED: (Katz/Roach) Voted unanimously to allow Starbucks to proceed with their live music program on a trial basis for two months (60 days), to have up to two pieces, for one night a week. At the end of the 60 days, please call for an appointment before the Board to discuss the success or other issues related to the music program and to seek an extension, if so desired.
Executive Session
VOTED: (Roach/Garf) Voted unanimously to enter into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing matters of Collective Bargaining and Pending Litigation, and at the conclusion thereof, to adjourn for the evening.
The Board entered into Executive Session at 9:15 P.M.
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