Town of Gilford, New Hampshire
Deliberative Session
“First Session”
February 4, 2008
AT 7:07 p.m. Peter Millham, Town Moderator, opened the deliberative session with the Pledge of Allegiance. There were approximately 94 voters in attendance. Millham introduced the following officials seated on the stage: Denise Morrissette, Town Clerk – Tax Collector; Dick Hickok, Budget Committee Chairman; Alice Boucher, Selectman Chairperson; “Connie” Grant, Selectman; “Gus” Benavides, Selectman; Evans Juris, Town Administrator; Debra Shackett, Assistant Town Administrator/Finance Director; Attorney Walter Mitchell, Town Council.
The Moderator explained the basic rules of the meeting to be as follows: All debate courteous, no name calling, all debate must be relative to the article. Moderator will stop all irrelevant discussion. No disorder. Failure to comply with Moderator’s orders will be asked to leave. Moderator Millham stated that the Body may overrule him. The Moderator explained the procedure for discussing an Article would be to move and second the Article. The Budget and other Articles would be moved by the Budget Committee Chairman, the Board of Selectmen, a petitioner or anyone else who would like to move the Article. There would be an opportunity to explain the Article. Speakers would have five minutes the first time and two minutes the second time. Floor speakers must use the microphone to be sure everyone
is heard. Amendments must be in writing and stated in the positive. Yes means your in favor of the subject. There will not be any amendments to amendments. Once the amendment is disposed of by passage or defeat a secession of amendments to follow. The Moderator explained that there is a responsibility not to change the language for the March ballot. There will be no final vote. Articles will be placed on the ballot for a final vote. You may move the question to move to the next article. Motion to dispose of amendments will not be allowed. There is no power to remove amendments from the ballot. Moderator has the ability to make rulings but may be over ruled by the majority. There will be an Acting Moderator in place of Moderator Millham for Article 4 to prevent any conflict of interest.
Election of Officers:
Article 1: To choose the necessary Town Officers for the following year.
List of candidates provided as a hand out by Denise Morrissette, Town Clerk – Tax Collector
Zoning Ordinance Amendments
The Moderator read Article 2 as follows:
Article 2: Are you in favor of the adoption of Amendment No. 1 as proposed by the Gilford Planning Board for the Gilford Zoning Ordinance as follows:
Amend Section 8.4.8, Changeable Copy Signs, by adding to the existing Section 8.4.8 regulations regarding Electronic Changeable Copy Signs. The proposed regulations limit the frequency at which messages are allowed to change; restrict hours of operation; and prohibit certain display methods including, but not limited to, flashing and image movement.
John Ayer explained that the town has approved six or seven electronic signs recently. He further explained that this was addressing lettering signs that change. The ordinance was taken from regulations that have been applied to other illuminating signs.
Question: Chan Eddy asked about the brightness of signs.
John Ayer: The Planning Board did discuss brightness and color but after discussion did not come up with any language to address the issue. The Planning Board is looking at a time frame restriction.
Question: Kevin Hayes asked if this would cause any restriction to construction zones.
John Ayer: There are currently regulatory governmental ordinances regarding construction zones.
Joe Hoffman: Stated that there has been a sign shinning on his property since 1986. He further stated that a bulletin board light is shining on it right now.
John Ayer: Referred Mr. Hoffman to notify the Code Enforcement Officer to address it at a later date.
Question: Dr. Don Carey wanted to know if the question was asked about the brightness of signs and asked why there is no way to address the issue.
John Ayer: Replied that there is a way to address the issue but the Planning Board has not reached a conclusion to date.
Question: Dr. Carey asked if there is a limit on the brightness?
John Ayer: Stated that it could be addressed as a public nuisance.
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
The Moderator read Article 3 as follows:
Article 3: Are you in favor of the adoption of Amendment No. 2 as proposed by the Gilford Planning Board for the Gilford Zoning Ordinance as follows:
Amend subparagraph (a) of Section 5.2.1, Island and Shore Frontage District, by increasing the minimum setback required from Lake Winnipesaukee, Saltmarsh Pond, Lily Pond, Poor Farm Brook, Meadow Brook, Jewett Brook, Gunstock River, or any other year_round brook, from forty (40) feet to fifty (50) feet.
John Ayer: Acknowledged that the State laws and regulation concerning the Department of Environmental Services (DES) has changed this past year effective 4/1/08 Protection Water Act. A 40’ set back in the ordinance is to change with the State regulation of 50’ with other restrictions as listed.
Peter Millham: Wanted to know if Grand fathered structures were okay.
Joe Hoffman: Stated that nothing is Grand fathered unless it’s recorded. He further stated that a plan must be recorded at Belknap County Registry of Deeds.
Rick Moses: Asked what would happen if we don’t pass this article and ignore it? Will he need modifications to his house?
John Ayer: Stated that the result would be 40’ from brooks and rivers and you would still have to meet State requirements.
Joe Hoffman: Wanted Walter Mitchell to give a legal response to the Grand fathering of the set back.
Peter Millham: Informed Mr. Hoffman that Attorney Walter Mitchell would need to research before answering his question. Moderator Millham further stated that Mr. Hoffman’s question might be out of order.
Joe Hoffman: Replied that he was not out of order.
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
Moderator Cameron read Article 4 as follows:
Article 4: Are you in favor of the adoption of Amendment No. 3 as proposed by petition for the Gilford Zoning Ordinance as follows:
Amend the Official Zoning Map of the Town of Gilford by changing from the Resort Commercial (RC) Zone to the Single Family Residential (SFR) Zone the area along the southwesterly side of Route 11, a/k/a Lake Shore Road, generally between the Alton town line and Highland Drive.
(The Planning Board does not recommend the adoption of this amendment.)
John Ayer: Referred the voters to a handout that was provided with a map including a verbal description. Referred to shaded area Resort Commercial (RC) to Single Family Residential (SFR).
Joe Hoffman: 1988 passed a warrant article in Varney point area from SFR to RC. Joe explained that it was a Superior Court Ruling. He further explained this is a defective warrant article. Mr. Hoffman said that Attorney Mitchell should respond or be terminated.
Steve Nicks: Stated that he and his wife we in favor of the article. If the ordinance passes, current uses and Grandfathering would be allowed. He further explained that Rt. 11 is a very narrow section, with no shoulders on the road. Probability that this area would convert to RS is almost nil in his opinion. Rezoning makes sense for the area of single-family homes.
Jack Stephenson: spoke in opposition to changing the zoning. Jack referred to the ordinance as “spot zoning.” He has an area that would make a nice campground. He referred to this Article as “spite zoning.”
Polly Sanfacon: Chair of Planning Board – explained that The Planning Board is to “recommend” or “not recommend” on petition articles; with no time to study the unintended consequences, but the Board will be studying certain areas of the town in the future.
Moderator asked if there were any objections to Ms. Peggy Ames to speaking, as she is not a registered voter of the Town. Hearing no objections the Moderator gave Ms. Ames the floor.
Peggy Ames: Non-resident spoke in opposition to the article with history of Ames Farm Inn. She explained how this article threatens their family business.
Joe Hoffman: stated that in the 1990’s Goodhue provided waterfront owners a booklet how to develop water front property. He said that Section 9.1A requires registry of deeds for recording of plans. He further stated that Attorney Dyer and Millham have a conflict of interest with Winnipesaukee Yacht Club and never submitted a site plan for Planning Board review. Pointing at Walter Mitchell he further stated the he felt Attorney Mitchell could not represent the town in this case.
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
Other Municipal Articles
Moderator Millham read Article 5 as follows:
Article 5: Shall the Town raise and appropriate as an operating budget, not including appropriations by special warrant articles and other appropriations voted separately, the amounts set forth on the budget posted with the warrant or as amended by vote of the first session, for the purposes set forth therein, totaling $10,825,284? Should this article be defeated, the default budget shall be $10,874,772 which is the same as last year, with certain adjustments required by previous action of the Town or by law; or the governing body may hold one special meeting, in accordance with RSA 40:13, X and XVI, to take up the issue of a revised operating budget only. NOTE: This operating budget warrant article does not include appropriations contained in ANY other warrant articles.
(Recommended by the Board of Selectmen, Recommended by the Budget Committee)
Mover – Richard Hickok Second – Alice Boucher
Richard Hickok: Explained that the operating budget including sewer detailed on pages 17 &18 of the hand out. The over all budget was up 1.5% since last year. He further stated that the Budget Committee as a whole was pretty pleased with this budget amount.
Joe Hoffman: Does this article include the tasers?
Mr. Hickok: Replied Yes.
Joe Hoffman: Stated that a local newspaper showed Gus shooting the officer with a taser. He further stated that the officer was in pain and needed help; at the bottom of the picture it says “we can’t wait to use this on Joe.” Mr. Hoffman said, “That’s me. I’ve never resisted arrest. Eliminate the amount. Amend $15K from the budget.”
Second to the motion: Don Carey seconded the motion to amend.
The Moderator opened the floor for discussion on the Amendment:
Kevin Keenan: Informed Mr. Hoffman that, “The statement made in the newspaper was not made by anyone in the PD. A lot of research has been on the officer’s safety and tasers allow the officers to work with the individual. The tasers affects lasts for five seconds. The taser affects the skeletory muscles. Law enforcement has used it for several years and it has proven to be good and reliable.”
Don Carey: Made a comment about the reduction to the line item or to the general budget and wanted to know if there have been fatalies anywhere?
Keenan: Taser International research shows no fatalities from being tased but victims have died from other problems such as drug over dose.
Evans Juris: Stated that the amendment would only reduce the general appropriation and is not line item specific.
Rick Moses: Asked, “Who are you?”
Keenan: Replied, “Captain of the PD.”
Moses: Stated that he believes the statement that noone has died is false. He states there have been deaths and heart attacks. He is not against tasers but is against false information.
Hickok: Budge Committee had a demonstration had mixed anti-tasers. After discussion and demonstration the vote was almost unanimous and felt it was a useful tool for the Police Department.
Diana Goodhue: Is every Patrol officer going to have one of these or the higher ranking ones only?
Keenan: answered that specifically trained officers would have them but not everyone.
Millham: Wanted to know how many tasers it would buy.
Keenan: Answered that it would buy around 8 tasers.
Eddy: Asked if part of certification is that the officer becomes a victim?
Keenan: Confirmed that it is part of the certification.
Joe Hoffman: spoke about our attorney knowing that shock treatments are illegal and would like to hear from council.
Theresa Walker: Stated that she thought that tasers are preset; not up to the officers to set and wanted to know if that was correct?
Keenan: That is correct, they are preset mini computers. USB cable will download a log of the use.
John Goodhue: Concerned about the safety. Rick Moses retired engineer of Duracell would have a good idea about these. John is afraid of legal problems or someone dying.
Keenan: Training and policy will be used with caution with guidelines.
Chief Markland: Stated that he has worked these streets since 1988 and he has seen a lot of things most citizens have not seen. This past Friday, an officer was assaulted and spit into his face. If they had a taser it may have changed the scenario. Chief spoke in favor of the tasers and asked to voters to support the purchase.
Millham read the question to reduce by $15K:
A voice vote was taken on the Amendment and the Amendment was declared defeated.
Dick Campbell: Default budget is greater than the recommended budget.
Deb Shackett: Last years budget was considerably higher.
Barry Grevatt: He rises to speak in favor of line items. He is being well served by Public Works Dept. Opportunity to say employees are doing a good job.
Everett McLaughlin: Wetland and GIS with Planning Board funding. Do you need funding for other half?
John Ayer: Wouldn’t appear in this year’s budget. Yes, it is enough funding.
Chan Eddy: Asked if default budget is because of debt services?
Shackett: It went up for the Bean Property and the Fire Truck is in debt services.
Doug Lambert: Clarification exact impact on tax rate per thousand?
Deb Shackett: “We don’t know what are assessed value would be. If no money applied from undesignated balance. It would be a .19-cent increase.”
Joe Hoffman: Made referenced to the road on Governor’s Island and further stated that he was unable to research and locate the deed to the town. He further stated that, “If we don’t have one we should get one.” “Governor’s Club Island is tax exempt,” Joe said, “Lakeshore Park Assoc. has private roads. They maintain their own roads.” Joe further stated that, “The Town should not be doing any roads for them. Mitchell should be in on this. GIC is a for profit company according to the Secretary of States office.”
Sheldon Morgan: Informed Mr. Hoffman that he had the paperwork at his office to show that Governor’s Island roads are owned by the town. LSP has chosen to keep their roads private.
Doug Lambert: Member of Budget committee. Don’t lose sight of the good facts and presentation of the budget and Thank the Selectmen for employee contributions to health insurance.
Barry Grevatt: Solid waste disposal line item discussed the amount being lowered? Is there a story behind these numbers? Recycling program?
Sheldon: reduced are anticipating a reduction in solid waste. Paper, metal and papers coming out of waste stream. There is a small profit. Have to give the co-op a guess each year. Money is set-aside in anticipation. Last year did not have to spend allotment. Will vary up and down each year.
Terry Stewart: Budge Committee has subcommittees that go through the budget line items. He feels there have been very informative meetings in regards to recycling.
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
The Moderator read Article 6 as follows:
Article 6: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of two hundred fourteen thousand dollars ($214,000) to purchase a new ambulance and authorize the withdrawal of one hundred ten thousand dollars ($110,000) from the Capital Reserve Fund created for that purpose. The balance of one hundred four thousand dollars ($104,000) is to come from general taxation.
(Recommended by the Board of Selectmen, Recommended by the Budget Committee).
Mover – Richard Hickok Second – Connie Grant Presentation – Richard Hickok
Dick Hickok: time to replace the ambulance about every six years. The number one ambulance will move to number two ambulance. Some of the money would be coming from the Capital Reserve.
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
The Moderator read Article 7 as follows:
Article 7: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of one hundred fifty thousand dollars ($150,000) to be added to the Police Facility Capital Reserve Fund previously established. This sum to come from undesignated fund balance and no amount to be raised from taxation. (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen, Recommended by the Budget Committee)
Mover – Richard Hickok Second – Gus Benavides
Dick Hickok: The Facility planning group needs funds to continue their work.
Dick Campbell: Opposition to the article. Objects to the way this is being handled. Mr. Campbell stated Capt. Reserve funds are good use. Money would be put aside for some major expenses coming in the future and it’s untouchable until it’s time to spend it. It then takes an article on the warrant a people approve the spending of it. Agents are named to remove the funds from the Capital Reserve funds, they can take the money out at any time and the people are cut out of the action all together. There are some situations where that phrase is necessary. Has there been any discussion of the use of the agents to expend clause? Does not apply to Articles 9 & 10. Articles 7, 8 & 11-16 objects to the Board being named the agents to expend.
Joseph Hoffman: Spoke about Weeks Farm Article in 2004 and wanted to know if there was a capital reserve fund? “Why did it go from $176K to $500K? Deputy treasurer signed the town checks” and Joe stated that he “thinks she resigned because of it.” Joe explained that the taxpayers are the Legislative Body.
Moderator asked Joe to sit down; he has had the floor for 5 minutes.
Alice Boucher: Asked, “Is Mr. Campbell asking to have the Board listed as agents?”
Dick Campbell: Answered, “No, it was determined prior to and therefore he is against the article.”
Evans Juris: 2004 amended on the floor of Town meeting. Total cost was approx. $500K.
Assessed value: 457,500 for 236 acres.
Joe Hoffman: Wants to know about the assessed value
Millham: asked Mr. Hoffman to be quiet.
Joe: Answered, “No!”
Connie Grant: Remarked, “Mr. Campbell can see the point. This is going towards a lot of little pieces. It would be cumbersome to bring to the people for vote. It’s to be able to bring a complete set of plans to the taxpayers.”
Joe Hoffman: Speaking out of order.
Millham: Stated, “Joe doesn’t have the floor.”
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
The Moderator read Article 8 as follows:
Article 8: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of fifty thousand dollars ($50,000) to be added to the Bridge Replacement Capital Reserve Fund. (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen, Recommended by the Budget Committee)
Mover – Richard Hickok Second – Alice Boucher Presentation – Richard Hickok
Hickok: Informed the audience that this Article was in preparation of repairing bridges.
Joe Hoffman: Who maintains the Bridge to Governor’s Island?
Sheldon Morgan: Answered, “Fifty percent Gilford, fifty percent Laconia. Property line splits the bridge in half.
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
The Moderator read Article 9 as follows:
Article 9: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of fifty thousand dollars ($50,000) to be added to the Highway Equipment Capital Reserve Fund. (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen, Recommended by the Budget Committee)
Mover – Richard Hickok Second – Connie Grant Presentation – Richard Hickok
Dick Hickok: Explained that the money has been being used for heavy equipment for many years.
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
The Moderator read Article 10 as follows:
Article 10: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of fifty thousand dollars ($50,000) to be added to the Ambulance Replacement Capital Reserve Fund. (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen, Recommended by the Budget Committee)
Mover – Richard Hickok Second – Gus Benavides Presentation – Richard Hickok
Dick Hickok: For use of the next replacement ambulance.
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
The Moderator read Article 11 as follows:
Article 11: To see if the Town will vote to establish a Capital Reserve Fund under the provisions of RSA 35:1-c for the purpose of the maintenance of the Glendale Boat and Launch Ramp Facilities and to raise and appropriate the sum of twenty five thousand dollars ($25,000) to be placed in this fund and to name the Board of Selectmen as agents to expend. (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen, Recommended by the Budget Committee).
Mover – Richard Hickok Second – Alice Boucher Presentation – Richard Hickok
Dick Hickok: To address dock 1 and the one beside it. It will take a couple of years to fund this project.
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
The Moderator read Article 12 as follows:
Article 12: To see if the Town will vote to establish a Capital Reserve Fund under the provisions of RSA 35:1-c for the purpose of maintaining the Town’s Recreation Facilities and to raise and appropriate the sum of twenty two thousand dollars ($22,000) to be placed in this fund and to name the Board of Selectmen as agents to expend. (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen, Recommended by the Budget Committee).
Mover – Richard Hickok Second – Connie Grant Presentation – Richard Hickok
Dick Hickok: New Capital Reserve approach to put funds aside for the Recreation committee to use for swings at the village field. It will take several years to fund.
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
The Moderator read Article 13 as follows:
Article 13: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of twenty thousand dollars ($20,000) to be placed in the Sewer Capital Reserve Fund. (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen, Recommended by the Budget Committee).
Mover – Richard Hickok Second – Gus Benavides Presentation – Richard Hickok
Hickok: New Capital Reserve particular to the sewer. There is no fund for emergencies.
Joe Hoffman: Sewer fund and users. Is there a deficit being carried by the sewer?
Dick Hickok: No deficit.
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
The Moderator read Article 14 as follows:
Article 14: To see if the Town will vote to establish a Capital Reserve Fund under the provisions of RSA 35:1-c for the purpose of funding Water Supply Maintenance and to raise and appropriate the sum of ten thousand dollars ($10,000) to be placed in this fund and to name the Board of Selectmen as agents to expend.
(Recommended by the Board of Selectmen, Recommended by the Budget Committee).
Mover – Richard Hickok Second – Alice Boucher Presentation – Richard Hickok
Hickok: New Capital reserve to cover a new system in town. Some developments have water supply ponds that the town is liable for.
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
The Moderator read Article 15 as follows:
Article 15: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of five thousand dollars ($5,000) to be placed in the Compensated Absences Capital Reserve Fund. (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen, Recommended by the Budget Committee)
Mover – Richard Hickok Second – Connie Grant Presentation – Richard Hickok
Hickok: Explained that this Article is to set money aside for long-term employees leaving. Trying to accumulate for future funding.
Doug Lambert: This liability is accumulated sick time and holiday pay has been fixed and will become less in the future.
Joseph Hoffman: Are you talking about accrued benefits? Who keeps the records of vacation time?
Dick Hickok: Debbie Shackett
Joseph Hoffman: asked about payout of time to Phil Arel. How did he accumulate a package of $35K?
Millham: Replied to Mr. Hoffman that, “This was not the issue before us tonight” and asked Mr. Hoffman to “Please take a seat.”
Hoffman: Replied, “No.”
Millham: Asked Mr. Hoffman to put his request it in writing.
Hoffman: Answered, “The Administrator should be fired.”
Millham: Asked Joe to “Sit down, please.”
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
The Moderator Read Article 16 as follows:
Article 16: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of five thousand dollars ($5,000) to be placed in the Building Repair Capital Reserve Fund. (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen, Recommended by the Budget Committee).
Mover – Richard Hickok Second – Gus Benavides Presentation – Richard Hickok
Dick Hickok: New Capital reserve fund in regards to expensive repairs such as the elevator.
Chan Eddy: Aimed at just town hall?
Hickok: All Town Buildings.
Bill Johnson: New fund?
Hickok: Yes
Johnson: Wording is not similar to Article 14.
Hickok: Made a correction that it was not a new fund. The fund just hasn’t been funded in awhile.
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
The Moderator read Article 17 as follows:
Article 17: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $110,000 for use by the Library Trustees at the new library. Funding to be provided from the proceeds of the sale of land at 43 Potter Hill Road, parcel number 226-078.001. This parcel was purchased in 2004 to build a new library. This article is a one-time appropriation and is contingent upon adequate proceeds from the sale of the land. (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen, Recommended by the Budget Committee).
Mover – Richard Hickok Second – Alice Boucher
Debra Shackett: Explained that the Article allows the proceeds of the sale of the parcel to be returned to the Library for their use. Any proceeds over $150K will be deposited to the General Fund.
Joe Hoffman: Remarked, “Should have been consolidated. Peter V. Millham violation of 91A and shouldn’t be Moderator. Assess $27K we paid 160K for 3 acres. Warrant Article should have included the assessed value.”
Millham gave Mr. Hoffman a 30 second warning.
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
The Moderator read Article 18 as follows:
Article 18: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $32,359 for the Youth Services Bureau. (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen, Not recommended by the Budget Committee).
Mover – Connie Grant Second – Gus Benavides
Evans Juris: Program that has been in existence over 20 years and is used by law enforcement and the community.
Dick Hickok: Budget committee’s position on these has been a delma whether to use taxpayer’s dollars to fund these committees. The BC recommended lumping them together to see if the voters want to fund the “outside” agencies.
Lee Duncan: Differ with what to use taxpayer’s dollars for. Early intervention will prevent spending dollars in the future.
David Osman: Express thanks to the BC. Differ with respect to the committee on this and other articles to follow. Speaks in favor of the programs. Question is this the proper role of Government? People have different views. Mr. Osman states he is no expert. Before the meeting he researched the Bill of Rights in defining the general purposes of Government. Refers to social responsibility. Developing laws and the proper execution of those laws.
Joseph Hoffman: Discussed the Bill of Rights. No officers of multiple positions in Government in reference to ZBA, and Planning Board.
Millham: Told Mr. Hoffman he was not speaking to the article.
Hoffman: Responded, “Osman represented Winnipesaukee Yacht Club.”
Millham: Warned Mr. Hoffman that he was not talking about the issue before us and asked Joe to sit down.
Hoffman: Asked, “What’s your problem?” You also lied in a case.
Millham: Replied, “Please sit down.” The Moderator looked at the Police Officers and stated, “Please escort him out.”
Constable Hopkins escorted Hoffman from the meeting.
Skip Murphy: Asks what is the proper role of government for funding these charities. Budget Committee said they all did good work but sated some taxpayers may wish not to contribute to these outside agencies. Funding should be done privately. Taxpayers now have a choice. Murphy spoke in opposition.
Bill Johnson: Argument is that these agencies bring a benefit to the town. The town would have to expend additional monies to support these. Are amounts requested to the Town?
Dick Hickok: yes, requests are from agencies with significant amount of input to the Budget Committee. He further stated, “Maybe the welfare budget will go up after this.”
Johnson: Any attempt to some how link the value of the agency to the Town.
Hickok: Replied, “Yes.”
Julie McConnell: Stated that she wanted to correct Juris, as she was the founder of this Bureau. She further stressed that there is a responsibility to the community to fund these organizations. They spend 2 hours on capital request for $800K and these organizations are requesting $80K for services to this community. Spoke is support.
Alida Millham: Spoke in support of all the agencies. Each agency is required by the State to submit to the Charitable Trust a report. Social service Fed grants dollars that must be locally met. 35 years ago the state hospital was closed there is an RSA that local community would support mental health centers. Concern of the popularity contest and hopes all organizations will be supported.
Erika Johnson: Gilford Welfare Director. All agencies are very needed in this community. Welfare budget is already up 17% this year. Salvation Army and St. Vincent DePaul have been very supportive to Gilford.
Doug Lambert: Previous discussion on what is the role of Government? More questions are what is the role of the property tax dollar? County and Federal funds are also given. All good services but at what point does it become the responsibility of the town. Some are charitable organizations such as St. Vince DePaul and Salvation Army. Individuals should be able to decide to fund for not. Taxpayers could lose the roof over their heads. BC voted to bring it to the people is true. Once and for all it will go to the taxpayers to see what the role of government is.
Dale Dormody: Budge Committee member speaking personally. Misleading statement on each warrant article that the budget committee. Questions on how much cost vs. how much if not paid by taxpayers. No public discussion on individual responses. Instead the entire specific debate was set a side in favor of Mr. Murphy’s argument is this the proper role of government. Personal opinion after review, each agency provides services in excess of the amount requested. Not debated.
Dick Hickok: past members were satisfied that they were discussed.
Dale Dormody: each budget committee should discuss this each year even as erroneous as it may seem should be held each year.
Chief Markland: spoke in favor of the Article and has seen first hand the results of the services.
Look at the full picture of first time juvenile offenders. You will pay court costs.
Richard Keller: Thank Mr. Dormody for his comments. He further stated that Article 18-24 should be open to town discussion and that it is valuable. Several Budget Committee Representatives recognize the value of all of these agencies. “Outside agencies” is mislabeling and they are town agencies. He was told by the Budget Committee that someone else is paying for these and that “Gilford should.” .01 cent of the tax rate on a home of $200k it is a cost of $2.00. He further stated that the Budget Committee fell short of their expectations of the town.
Terry Stewart: Stated that everyone was trying to do the right thing and further stated that it is difficult. Mr. Stewart did pour over the data. The physical matter is after pouring over the data you could come to the dollar with grants etc. but it is a value to the community. Emotional decision will look at the heart of each person. The Budget Committee thinks this will be a one-time deal to put it out to the voters to prevent the debating.
Mary Frost: Spoke about articles 18 –24 in favor and reminded people that these are matching funds. “Pay it now, or pay it later.”
Rick Moses: Budget Committee speaks of a great benefit to the town. Why didn’t they vote to recommend them?
Skip Murphy: The town “should” support these agencies. All these people think it’s Government that should fund these agencies. Skip suggested that all these people speaking in favor should support these agencies but not with tax dollars. Decisions were not made lightly or on a whim, members spent hours going over the material.
Dick Hickok: Committee of 12 people, when you take a vote you gets a split in the votes. The majority was against doing it because of the tax dollars.
Alice Boucher: Budget Committee asked the Board of Selectmen to do it as one warrant article. The Board of Selectmen felt that if someone did want to support one agency then the whole article would fail. The Board decided to do separate articles. Alice spoke in favor of all the articles.
John Rogers: Spoke in support to pay now instead of later when in crisis. Many people go out and raise money for these agencies and donate personal funds. Look at their budgets to see how the agencies are supported.
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
The Moderator read Article 19 as follows:
Article 19: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $23,500 for Community Health and Hospice, Inc. (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen, Not recommended by the Budget Committee).
Mover – Alice Boucher Second – Connie Grant Presentation – Evans Juris, Debra
Russ Armstrong: Cotton Hill. Use of outside agencies should be referred to as town agencies. Bring in $420K worth of services to this town. Every charitable one-dollar they raise two dollars to match. Look at the numbers and what they are doing for the community. Spoke in support.
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
The Moderator read Article 20 as follows:
Article 20: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $3,400 for Child and Family Services. (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen, Not recommended by the Budget Committee).
Mover – Gus Benavides Second – Alice Boucher Presentation – Evans Juris, Debra
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
The Moderator read Article 21 as follows:
Article 21: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $8,345 for the Community Action Program. (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen, Not recommended by the Budget Committee).
Mover – Connie Grant Second – Gus Benavides Presentation – Evans Juris, Debra
Jane Gauthier, Brookside Crossing: spoke in favor of funding the Community Action program and explained the services provided to Gilford Residents and meeting their needs. 52% of funds are Federal. $115K homes have received fuel assistance. Statistics have been provided to the Budge Committee to back up the request; $217K used last year by the Town of Gilford for services.
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
The Moderator read Article 22 as follows:
Article 22: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $1,800 for New Beginnings. (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen, Not recommended by the Budget Committee).
Mover – Alice Boucher Second – Connie Grant
Deb Hastings: Wild Acres Rd. Spoke in support.
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
The Moderator read Article 23 as follows:
Article 23: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $8,749 for Genesis Behavioral Health. (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen, Not recommended by the Budget Committee).
Mover – Gus Benavides Second – Alice Boucher
Sue Smith: Asked for help and support from the Town of Gilford. Help the severely mentally ill residents between the ages of 18-59 with basic life support issues. 166 Gilford residents have received assistance this year.
Chan Eddy: Chestnut Dr. Received funding from Belknap County? Spoke in reference to the outside agencies not be within the government.
John Rogers: spoke in favor.
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
The Moderator read Article 24 as follows:
Article 24: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $3,330 for the American Red Cross. (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen, Not recommended by the Budget Committee).
Mover – Connie Grant Second – Gus Benavides
Jim Hayes: Fire Chief spoke in favor of support the American Red Cross. Title associates to being a national organization and are responsible for raising their own local dollars for local disasters that are not considered a national disaster. American Red Cross does have a roll in placement with fires. It’s a matter of which budget do you want it to come out of? The Welfare budget or this one?
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
The Moderator read Article 25 as follows:
Article 25: To see if the Town will vote to pay the Town Clerk/Tax Collector an annual stipend of $57,952. In addition the Town Clerk/Tax Collector shall be entitled to 95% of the premium for the town’s health insurance plan, 100% of the dental insurance premium, 100% of the short and long term disability plans, life insurance with a face value of 165% of the annual stipend (not to exceed $100,000). Additionally, the Town will continue making contributions to the NH State Retirement System at the effective contribution rate (currently 8.74%). Total value of package is $74,588.
Mover – Alice Boucher Second – Connie Grant
Millham explained funds are in the budget.
Deb Shackett: To establish a level of funding for the TC-TC position.
Barry Grevatt: Every year?
Deb Shackett: Stated, it was to get on the books so you could live with it.
Millham: Asked if salary increases would be another warrant article.
Shackett: Answered, “Correct.”
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
The Moderator read Article 26 as follows:
Article 26: To see if the taxpayers of the Town of Gilford will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of ten thousand dollars ($10,000) to support the activities and facilities of the Lake Winnipesaukee Sailing Association, a 501(c)(3) tax exempt charitable organization that operates a variety of sailing programs for residents of the Lakes Region. These programs include: a Youth Sailing School; a Community Sailing Program for adults; and a soon to be established Adaptive Sailing Program for physically and mentally challenged children and adults, including wounded veterans returning from combat operations. Programs are open to all Lakes Region residents regardless of their ability to pay. (Submitted by Petition) (Not Recommended by the Board of Selectmen, Not recommended by the Budget Committee).
Mover – John Rocklis 112 Varney Point Rd., Left Second – Kevin Hayes
John Rocklis explained the youth service program. He further explained about moving the facility.
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
The Moderator read Article 27 as follows:
Article 27: To see if the Town will vote to approve the following resolution to be forwarded to our State Representatives, our State Senator and our Governor:
Resolved: We the citizens of Gilford, NH believe in a New Hampshire that is just and fair. The property tax has become unjust and unfair. State leaders who take a pledge for no new taxes perpetuate higher and higher property taxes. We call on our State Representatives, our State Senator and our Governor to reject the “Pledge”, have an open discussion covering all options, and adopt a revenue system that lowers property taxes. (Submitted by Petition)
Mover - John Rogers Second – Barry Grevatt
Rogers: NH property taxes are high people on fixed budgets are having difficulty paying on limited income. Trying to make taxes in NH fair.
Chan Eddy: Other ways of taxation have failed miserable in other states. NH has lower over all tax burdens. Income and sales tax will result in a continued high property tax.
Doug Lambert: Spoke in concern with broad based taxes and not supporting our local government control. Spoke in opposition of the article.
John Rogers: Spoke is support of the Article.
Skip Murphy: Spoke in opposition. High spending equals high taxes keep control local.
John Goodhue: Spoke in opposition of the Article.
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
The Moderator read Article 28 as follows:
Article 28: To see if the Town will vote as per RSA 32:5 V-a to require that all votes by the Selectmen and Town Budget Committee relative to Town budget items or warrant articles be recorded votes and a numerical tally of any such vote be printed in the Town warrant next to the affected warrant article. (Submitted by Petition)
Mover - Dale Dormody Second – Doug Lambert
Dale Dormody: Next years ballot will have a vote next to the “for” or “against” on each Article. It will show the split of votes.
Doug Lambert: spoke in support of the Article and giving information to the voters.
Dick Hickok: Will this be printed on the ballot along with the warrant.
Millham: Millham read the statute and the statue states that the warrant is not stated on the “ballot.”
Skip Murphy: Wants to amend to add each member’s vote.
Dale Dormody: The language was from DRA. The intent was to put it on the ballot. The courts did not allow individual names.
Skip Murphy: Stated that there was no need to do the amendment.
With no further discussion the Moderator moved to the next Article.
Meeting adjourned at 10:35 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Denise A. Morrissette, NHCTC-TC
Town Clerk – Tax Collector
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