Town of Gilford, New Hampshire
Deliberative Session Minutes
“First Session”
February 4, 2009
Town Moderator, Peter Millham, called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m. and opened with the reciting of The Pledge of Allegiance. There were approximately 78 voters in attendance. The Moderator pointed out the location of the exit in the room. Moderator Millham asked people to stand that were not registered voters; he asked the voters to recognize these individuals. He asked that these visitors not vote at the meeting. The Moderator introduced the following officials seated on the stage: Constance “Connie” Grant, Selectman Chairperson; Gustavo “Gus” Benavides, Selectman; Kevin Hayes, Selectman; Scott Dunn, Town Administrator; Denise Morrissette, Town Clerk; Richard “Dick” Hickok, Budget Committee Chairman.
Article I - The list of candidates running for Town office were announced. A handout was provided on the tables in the entry of the auditorium.
The Moderator explained the basic rules of the meeting to be as follows: All debate is to be courteous, no name calling, disorder is not permitted. The general procedure would be to move and explain the article. Speakers would be given five minutes to speak the first time to and two minutes to speak a second time on the same article. Everyone would be given a chance to speak once before anyone else was allowed to speak a second time. Anyone wishing to speak would be required to speak at the microphone and would speak in order of the line. Amendments must be in writing and stated positively; a yes vote would mean yes and a no vote would be against. There will be no amendments to an amendment. The first amendment will be voted on before a new amendment would be introduced. The Moderator further explained that the SB2 Deliberative Session does not allow voting on the articles; it only allows voting on the amendments. Moving a question will terminate discussion and move to
vote on the article or move to the next article. Attempt to remove an article from the ballot will not be recognized. If balloting is required it will be by checklist and will be set up at the rear of the auditorium. He explained that the voters have a right to over rule the Moderator at anytime.
Moderator Millham announced that there was an error on the warrant concerning the “Second Session” for voting. The “Second Session” will meet at the Gilford Middle School Gymnasium 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Tuesday March 10, 2009. It will not be held at the Gilford High School as posted on the warrant.
Moderator Millham explained that Article 2 – 8 would be explanation only.
The Moderator Read Article 2 as follows:
ARTICLE 2 - Are you in favor of the adoption of Amendment Number 1 as proposed by the Gilford Planning Board for the Gilford Zoning Ordinance as follows:
Create a new Article 20, Small Wind Energy Systems, to regulate development, placement, and use of Small Wind Energy Systems; and renumber the existing Article 20 and subsequent Articles as Articles 21 through 25 respectively?
Motion By: John Ayer, Director of Planning and Land Use/Resident
Second By: Dale Channing Eddy
Mr. Ayer explained information of amendments were provided as a handout on the tables in the entry of the auditorium.
State legislation allows this for towns to adopt. John explained the definitions and terms of the ordinance.
ARTICLE 3 - Are you in favor of the adoption of Amendment Number 2 as proposed by the Gilford Planning Board for the Gilford Zoning Ordinance as follows:
Amend the Official Zoning Map of the Town of Gilford by changing the zoning of approximately 90 acres located at the southerly end of Blaisdell Avenue, from the Industrial (I) and Limited Residential (LR) Zones to the Commercial (C) Zone?
Motion By: John Ayer, Director of Planning and Land Use/Resident
Second By: Dale Pattison Eddy
Mr. Ayer described the section of town that the ordinance would encumber.
ARTICLE 4 - Are you in favor of the adoption of Amendment Number 3 as proposed by the Gilford Planning Board for the Gilford Zoning Ordinance as follows:
Amend Article 3, Definitions, by adding a new definition for “Bunkhouse” which is an accessory building to a single-family dwelling used as sleeping quarters for guests staying at the dwelling?
Motion By: John Ayer, Director of Planning and Land Use/Resident
Second By: John O’Brien
Mr. Ayer explained that this article addresses the definition of “bunkhouse” within the ordinance and the types of facilities that can be in them.
ARTICLE 5 - Are you in favor of the adoption of Amendment Number 4 as proposed by the Gilford Planning Board for the Gilford Zoning Ordinance as follows:
Amend Section 4.3, table of Commercial Uses, by changing the designation of certain commercial uses as permitted uses, uses permitted by special exception, or uses not permitted in the Commercial, Professional Commercial, Resort Commercial, and Industrial zones?
Motion By: John Ayer, Director of Planning and Land Use/Resident
Second By: Dale Channing Eddy
Mr. Ayer described a number of different uses within the town. The Planning Board addressed commercial uses for this year. This will make more sense of the uses described.
ARTICLE 6 - Are you in favor of the adoption of Amendment Number 5 as proposed by the Gilford Planning Board for the Gilford Zoning Ordinance as follows:
Amend Section 5.1.2, Minimum Lot Dimension, by deleting the existing subparagraph (d) which allows lots with smaller than standard frontage, and replacing it with a revised subparagraph (d), which will allow lots with smaller than standard frontage but will add restrictions and further clarify the existing standards?
Motion By: John Ayer, Director of Planning and Land Use/Resident
Second By: Lee Duncan
Mr. Ayer explained that the article proposes to standardize the ordinance to comply with each applicant and to correct the frontage of the lake in accordance with State of NH requirements.
ARTICLE 7 - Are you in favor of the adoption of Amendment Number 6 as proposed by the Gilford Planning Board for the Gilford Zoning Ordinance as follows:
Amend Section 8.2.1.5, Signs Not Allowed, by amending Subsection (d) to eliminate the exception allowing offsite signs erected in deeded rights-of-way and the related provisions for such signs?
Motion By: John Ayer, Director of Planning and Land Use/Resident
Second By: Lee Duncan
Mr. Ayer explained that this article eliminates the exception for a sign on an easement such as real estate, farm produce and non-profit events. He expressed the article would prevent any billboards from coming up around town.
Fire Chief James Hayes read Article 8 as follows:
ARTICLE 8 - Are you in favor of adopting a revised Fire Prevention Code as proposed by the Gilford Fire Engineers and recommended by the Gilford Planning Board, whereby the current Fire Prevention Code will be repealed and the revised Fire Prevention Code will reference more recent editions of National Fire Protection Association codes as adopted and amended within the State Fire Code, and furthermore to add provisions for the creation of a Town of Gilford Fire Code Handbook, requirements for the installation of fire alarm systems, revisions to the system of fines for false alarms, establishment of standards for non-residential sprinkler suppression systems, provisions for access to fire alarm systems and establishes general fire safety requirements along with a system of permits, fees and penalties. (A copy of the
entire proposed text is on file with the Town Clerk for public inspection.)
Motion By: John T. O’Brien
Second By: Dale Channing Eddy
Chief Hayes explained the update of the codes and proposed the adoption of the State Fire Code. Chief Hayes explained the increasing fine schedule for nuisance fire alarm systems for more than two calls per year.
Doug Lambert a resident of Farmer Dr. has concern of sprinklers in residential and commercial properties and the costs involved. He feels it is addressing a problem that we don’t have. Mr. Lambert spoke in opposition.
Dale Channing Eddy asked about old buildings being renovated. Chief Hayes said that it would pertain to renovated areas in areas of 50% of the structural area will be brought to code.
Doug Lambert asked about the 2-story definition and Chief Hayes explained it further.
Jack Stephenson asked if these regulations are retroactive to existing buildings.
Chief Hayes explained that it is not retroactive and will only obtain to new construction and multi-family occupants not single family dwellings.
James Mull Read Article 9 as follows:
ARTICLE 9 - To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of one million five hundred eighty thousand dollars ($1,580,000) (gross budget) for the construction and renovation of an expanded police station, to include a geo-thermal climate control system, and to authorize the issuance of not more than one million two hundred thousand dollars ($1,200,000) of bonds or notes in accordance with the provisions of the Municipal Finance Act (RSA 33) and to authorize the Board of Selectmen to issue and negotiate such bonds or notes and to determine the interest rate thereon; with the balance of three hundred eighty thousand dollars ($380,000) to come from surplus fund balance. (3/5 Vote Required) (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen 3 to 0) (Recommended by the Budget
Committee 7 to 2)
Motion By: James Mull, Facility Planning Committee Chairman
Second By: John T. O’Brien, Facility Planning Committee Member
John O’Brien gave a power point presentation to the audience. Mr. Mull asked for questions to be held until after the presentation and also that anyone may contact them directly if they did not want to speak at the meeting.
Jack Stephenson explained his goal to make this project a very energy efficient design and the committee has looked at improvements and he commended for the changes. Mr. Stephenson explained the high cost of the geo-thermal wells. Mr. Stephenson spoke in favor or the article and asked for resolution of the heating system.
Betsy Domin does not understand the need for an additional meeting room.
Dale Channing Eddy FPC Member explained that they are not adding a room but they would be moving the training room upstairs and would allow other committees to use the room as a meeting room. Mr. Eddy explained that Mr. Stephenson needs explain the other costs involved besides the boiler at $12,000. Mr. Eddy further explained the good environmental effects of geo-thermal.
Jack Stephenson further explained his position on the boiler system, baseboard heaters and contractors is what brings the price to $12,000. He explained the benefits of solar heating.
Selectman Kevin Hayes explained the benefit of geo-thermal and conventional heating costs. The payback time frame is 6 years and oil will not have to be purchased after that time.
Richard Hickok read Article 10 as follows:
ARTICLE 10 - 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 $11,040,307? Should this article be defeated, the default budget shall be $10,725,323, which is the same as last year, with certain adjustments required by previous action of the Town or by law; or the Board of Selectmen 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. (Majority Vote Required) (The Selectmen recommend $11,046,131 by a vote of 3 to 0) (Recommended by the Budget Committee 11 to
1)
Motion By: Richard Hickok, Budget Committee Chairman
Second By: John T. O’Brien
Mr. Hickok explained the difference of the $4,200 Library and the $1,624 Supervisor’s of the Checklist. He further explained that the Budget Committee recommended a stipend for the Supervisor’s of the Checklist. Selectman Grant explained that the Board was so close with the numbers that they did not take a big issue with the discrepancy amount. Selectman Hayes explained the Board’s perspective of the Library and the Supervisor’s of the Checklist. He further explained the time he spent observing the Supervisor’s of the Checklist performing their duties and the pay recommendation.
Motion By: Everett McLaughlin made an amendment to change the article to add $1,624.00 to the budget of $11,040,307.
Second by: Betsy Domin
Mr. McLaughlin further explained that he felt it was too low of a pay for the job – he feels the job should pay at least minimum wage for the hours worked.
Mr. Lambert spoke in opposition of the amendment.
Barry Grevatt spoke in support of the amendment.
Mr. Hickok explained the position of Budget Committee and is sympathetic and appreciates the work that they do. Mr. Hickok further explained that this was discussed at three different meetings and the more he hears the less he supports it.
Terry Stewart spoke in opposition to the amendment.
Mr. McLaughlin repeated the minimum wage pay and explained the small increase to the tax rate.
Betsy Domin spoke in favor of the amendment.
No further discussion.
The Moderator re-read the amendment as written from Everett McLaughlin: “I move that the amount in Warrant Article 10 be amended to ready $11,041,931 – in order to increase by $1,624 the amount for the Supervisors of the Checklist, as recommended by the Board of Selectmen on 11/03/2008.”
The Moderator called for a voice vote. He was unable to determine the out come of the voice vote and asked for voters to stand. A count of the standing voters resulted in passage of the amendment as follows:
Yes – 45 No-33
There was no further discussion.
Selectman Grant read Article 11 as follows:
ARTICLE 11 - To see if the Town will vote to approve the cost items included in the two year collective bargaining agreement reached between the Board of Selectmen and Teamsters Local 633 on behalf of certain Police Department employees, which calls for an estimated increase of thirty-five thousand four hundred seventy-nine dollars ($35,479) for wages and benefits at the current staffing levels for the year 2009 and an estimated increase of forty-eight thousand nine hundred two dollars ($48,902) for wages and benefits at the current staffing levels for the year 2010; and furthermore, to raise and appropriate the sum of thirty-five thousand four hundred seventy-nine dollars ($35,479), such sum representing the estimated additional costs necessary to fund the collective bargaining agreement in the current fiscal year over
the appropriation for wages and benefits paid in the prior fiscal year. (Majority Vote Required) (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen 3 to 0) (Recommended by the Budget Committee 9 to 0)
Motion By: Selectman Grant
Second By: Selectman Benavides
Selectman Grant complimented Town Administrator Scott Dunn for representing the Town and feels it was a good balance that was reached.
Dick Hickok explained the Budget Committee was satisfied with the out come of the agreement.
No further discussion.
The Moderator read Article 12 as follows:
ARTICLE 12 - Shall the Town, if Article 11 is defeated, vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to call one special meeting, at its option, to address Article 11 cost items only? (Majority Vote Required)
Motion By: Selectman Benavides
Second By: Selectman Hayes
Town Administrator Scott Dunn explained the State law in regards to the Special Town Meeting if needed.
John Goodhue asked, “Why the need for unions?” “What does it do?” He explained that there is a big problem in front of us. Mr. Goodhue would like to see the Town to do more than hold the line. He asked, “What happens if this gets voted out?” “Would the Selectmen be able to renegotiate this?”
Selectmen Hayes explained the forming the union was the employee’s choice.
Doug Lambert felt distressed the feeling that the employees had to go to the union as well. Mr. Lambert thanked the Board of Selectmen for a good job in the negotiations.
Terry Stewart asks what if this article fails and you do nothing?
Mr. Dunn explained the law and the negotiation process in Article 11. In Article 12 there can not be a special town meeting without going to court.
No further discussion.
Selectman Hayes read Article 13 as follows:
ARTICLE 13 - To see if the Town will vote to approve the cost items included in the one year collective bargaining agreement reached between the Board of Selectmen and AFSCME Local 534 on behalf of certain Public Works Department employees, which calls for an estimated increase of thirty thousand five hundred ninety-three dollars ($30,593) for wages and benefits at the current staffing levels for the year 2009; and furthermore, to raise and appropriate the sum of thirty thousand five hundred ninety-three dollars ($30,593), such sum representing the estimated additional costs necessary to fund the collective bargaining agreement in the current fiscal year over the appropriation for wages and benefits paid in the prior fiscal year. (Majority Vote Required) (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen 3 to 0)
(Recommended by the Budget Committee 8 to 1)
Motion By: Selectman Hayes
Second By: Selectman Grant
Selectman Benavides explained the negotiations with Administrator Dunn and the DPW representation. Selectman Benavides is satisfied with the merit increase and the 10% health insurance contributions from employees.
Barry Grevatt stood and complimented Sheldon Morgan and his staff for a great job.
No further discussion.
The Moderator read Article 14 as follows:
ARTICLE 14 - Shall the Town, if Article 13 is defeated, vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to call one special meeting, at its option, to address Article 13 cost items only? (Majority Vote Required)
Motion By: Selectman Grant
Second By: Selectman Benavides
No discussion.
Selectman Benavides read Article 15 as follows:
ARTICLE 15 - To see if the Town will vote to establish a Capital Reserve Fund under the provisions of RSA 35:1 for the purpose of purchasing Technology Upgrades, to include computer items, copy machines, telecommunication items and similar products; and to raise and appropriate the sum of twenty thousand dollars ($20,000) to be placed in this fund, and appoint the Board of Selectmen as agents to expend. (Majority Vote Required) (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen 3 to 0) (Not recommended by the Budget Committee 5 to 4)
Motion By: Selectman Benavides
Second By: Selectman Hayes
Selectman Hayes explained that they felt this article was good business for removing the peaks and valleys of purchases.
Dick Hickok explained the Budget Committee felt there was a problem with a lot of small capital reserve funds. The Committee felt this could have been handled with the budget.
No further discussion.
Selectman Hayes read Article 16 as follows:
ARTICLE 16 - To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of ten thousand dollars ($10,000) to be added to the Compensated Absences Capital Reserve Fund previously established. (Majority Vote Required) (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen 3 to 0) (Recommended by the Budget Committee 9 to 0)
Motion By: Selectman Hayes
Second By: Selectman Grant
No discussion.
Selectman Grant read Article 17 as follows:
ARTICLE 17 - To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of ten thousand dollars ($10,000) to be added to the Water Supply Maintenance Capital Reserve Fund previously established. (Majority Vote Required) (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen 3 to 0) (Recommended by the Budget Committee 9 to 0)
Motion By: Selectman Grant
Second By: Selectman Benavides
No discussion.
Selectman Benavides read Article 18 as follows:
ARTICLE 18 - To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of two hundred thousand dollars ($200,000) to be added to the Fire Equipment Capital Reserve Fund previously established. (Majority Vote Required) (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen 3 to 0) (The Budget Committee recommends $50,000 by a vote of 7 to 2)
Motion By: Selectman Benavides
Second By: Selectman Hayes
Selectman Benavides ask the voters to support the Article.
Mr. Hickok stated that the budget committee is against $200,000 and that is what you are voting on not the $50,000. The Budget Committee felt it was too much money for this year.
Motion By: Richard Campbell proposed an amendment to the article to change from $200,000 to $50,000.
Second by: Terry Stewart.
Chief Hayes explained that the original request was for $50,000 for the ambulance reserve and $150,000 for the fire equipment reserve. The idea was to not have a spike in the tax rate at the time of purchase. At the present time there is less than $5,000 in that account and a major purchase will be made within the next couple of years. Chief Hayes spoke in opposition of the amendment.
Doug Lambert explained the idea of funding future purchases and felt the people should not be taxed today for expenditures 4 -5 years down the road. Doug thought that this was going to fund an additional vehicle down the road and not replace one. Mr. Lambert spoke in favor of the Amendment.
Jack Stephenson spoke in favor of the Amendment and explained the concerns of retired people and the burden of adding these costs to the tax rate. He explained that this is not the time to take money out of taxpayer’s pockets when investments are down but it is time to conserve.
Pat Labonte explained that we are in a financial crisis and money is being spent like there is no tomorrow. Mr. Labonte spoke in favor of a regional Fire Department. He urged the Board of Selectmen to speak to other towns. Mr. Labonte spoke in favor of the Amendment.
Joseph Wernig spoke in opposition of the Amendment and stated that Fire Department does an excellent job.
Terry Stewart explained the Budget Committees position not to fund the $200,000 and brought current newspaper articles to explain the current financial state of the country. Terry spoke in favor of the Amendment.
Jack Stephenson thanked the Fire Department for their quick response and supports the Amendment.
Chief Hayes corrected the statement that Doug Lambert made in regards to replace a piece of equipment and will not increasing the fleet.
Doug Lambert stated that this will not be taking away from the Fire Department.
With no further discussion the Moderator called for a vote on the Amendment.
The Moderator declared the Amendment Passed with a voice vote.
No further discussion.
Selectman Hayes read Article 19 as follows:
ARTICLE 19 - To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of twenty-two thousand dollars ($22,000) to be added to the Recreation Facilities Maintenance Capital Reserve Fund previously established. (Majority Vote Required) (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen 3 to 0) (Recommended by the Budget Committee 8 to 1)
Motion By: Selectman Hayes
Second By: Selectman Grant
No discussion.
Selectman Grant read Article 20 as follows:
ARTICLE 20 - To see if the Town will vote to establish a Capital Reserve Fund under the provisions of RSA 35:1 for the purpose of contracting services and purchasing equipment necessary for Digital Mapping and GIS Systems; and to raise and appropriate the sum of twenty thousand dollars ($20,000) to be placed in this fund, and appoint the Board of Selectmen as agents to expend. (Majority Vote Required) (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen 3 to 0) (Recommended by the Budget Committee 8 to 1)
Motion By: Selectman Grant
Second By: Selectman Benavides
John Ayer explained Town is trying to develop a computerized mapping system. The system will allow the Town to gather data information and access the information concerning zoning.
No further discussion.
Selectman Benavides read Article 21 as follows:
ARTICLE 21 - To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of one hundred three thousand five hundred dollars ($103,500) for the purchase of a Light Duty Dump Truck with plow, and authorize the withdrawal of one hundred three thousand five hundred dollars ($103,500) from the Highway Equipment Capital Reserve Fund. (Majority Vote Required) (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen 3 to 0) (Recommended by the Budget Committee 9 to 0)
Motion By: Selectman Benavides
Second By: Selectman Hayes
No discussion.
Selectman Hayes read Article 22 as follows:
ARTICLE 22 - To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) to be added to the Highway Equipment Capital Reserve Fund previously established. (Majority Vote Required) (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen 3 to 0) (Recommended by the Budget Committee 9 to 0)
Motion By: Selectman Hayes
Second By: Selectman Benavides
No discussion.
Selectman Grant read Article 23 as follows:
ARTICLE 23 - To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000) to be added to the Glendale Boat and Launch Ramp Facilities Maintenance Capital Reserve Fund previously established. (Majority Vote Required) (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen 3 to 0) (Recommended by the Budget Committee 9 to 0)
Motion By: Selectman Grant
Second By: Selectman Benavides
No discussion.
Selectman Benavides read Article 24 as follows:
ARTICLE 24 - To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of twenty thousand dollars ($20,000) to be added to the Sewer Maintenance Capital Reserve Fund previously established. (Majority Vote Required) (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen 3 to 0) (Recommended by the Budget Committee 11 to 0)
Motion By: Selectman Benavides
Second By: Selectman Hayes
No discussion.
Selectman Hayes read Article 25 as follows:
ARTICLE 25 - To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of ten thousand dollars ($10,000) to be added to the Building Repair Capital Reserve Fund previously established. (Majority Vote Required) (Recommended by the Board of Selectmen 3 to 0) (Not recommended by the Budget Committee 9 to 0)
Motion By: Selectman Hayes
Second By: Selectman Grant
Selectman Hayes explained the importance to keep adding to the fund as there are on going maintenance issues. If there is a catastrophic problem at the Town Hall other services would have to be cut.
Mr. Hickok explained that it is illegal to over spend the budget and there is always funds left over at the end of the year.
Selectman Hayes explained the issues and problems that occurred this year. He further explained that DPW had to give up some of the scheduled paving.
No further discussion.
Judy Scothorne a resident at Brookside Crossing#14 read Article 26 as follows:
ARTICLE 26 - To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of eight thousand seven hundred sixty-two dollars ($8,762) to support the operation of the Laconia Area Center of Community Action Program. The Laconia Area Center staff provides low income, elderly and disabled residents of Gilford assistance with basic needs such as fuel assistance, electric assistance, Meals-on-Wheels, rental assistance, security deposits for housing and maintain a food pantry accessible every day during business hours. In 2007 residents of Gilford received $336,160 in services through the Community Action Program. (By Petition) (Majority Vote Required) (Recommended by the Selectmen 3 to 0) (Not recommended by the Budget Committee 10 to 1)
Motion By: Judy Scothorne
Second By: Rick Cote, Liberty Hill
Judy explained the request for funding from the Town of Gilford and has asked the City of Laconia and five surrounding towns to help with funding. Judy explained that they use other sources to fund the programs.
Richard Hickok explained the struggle of the Budget Committee’s ability to have a positive vote.
No further discussion.
Lee Duncan read Article 27 as follows:
ARTICLE 27 - To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of twenty-six thousand dollars ($26,000) for the Youth Services Bureau; a local agency that provides programs and services aimed at preventing juvenile delinquency and empowering youth. The Youth Services Bureau provides programs and services which emphasize accountability, education, decision-making skills and self-esteem development in a positive, non-judgmental and confidential atmosphere. Programs and services are cost-effective and focus on reducing or preventing expensive court intervention and placements. (By Petition) (Majority Vote Required) (Recommended by the Selectmen 3 to 0) (Not recommended by the Budget Committee 9 to 2)
Motion By: Lee Duncan
Second By: Everett McLaughlin
Lee explained the process the bureau uses to help juveniles and keep these issues out of the court system. The goal is to keep people from being incarcerated. This program allows for treatment on the local level. Legislature is being proposed to help with future funding. Lee spoke in favor of the Article.
Leo Sanfacon spoke in favor of the Article. Leo urged the Budget Committee to come over and see what they do and take a tour of the facility.
Doug Lambert said that he does understand and feels that local taxes should not have to fund this. Mr. Lambert spoke in opposition of the Article.
Lisa Morris spoke in favor of all the out side agency programs.
No further discussion.
Ann Nichols a resident of 1140 Cherry Valley Rd. read Article 28 as follows:
ARTICLE 28 - To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of nine thousand four hundred two dollars and eighty-nine cents ($9,402.89) to Genesis Behavioral Health for the delivery of Emergency Mental Health Services. These services include access to Master’s level clinicians and psychiatrists by individuals, schools, police and others, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. (By Petition) (Majority Vote Required) (Recommended by the Selectmen 3 to 0) (Not recommended by the Budget Committee 6 to 5)
Motion By: Ann Nichols
Second By: Susan Smith
Ms. Nichols explained the need for financial support for these emergency services. She further explained the role that the emergency service team provides during and after crisis. Many of these people have no insurance. A break down of services provided to the Town of Gilford residents was provided.
Mr. Thomason spoke of the environment children are faced with today and thank their lucky stars they did not have to face these challenges. He spoke in favor of the amendment.
No further discussion.
Richard Keller a resident of 59 Belknap Mtn. Rd. read Article 29 as follows:
ARTICLE 29 - To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of two thousand dollars ($2,000) to New Beginnings, the Center for intervention, support and advocacy for those whose lives have been affected by domestic, sexual and stalking violence, and these services include access to crisis line, staff and advocates by individuals, schools, police, hospitals and others, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. (By Petition) (Majority Vote Required) (Recommended by the Selectmen 3 to 0) (Not recommended by the Budget Committee 6 to 5)
Motion By: Richard Keller
Second By: Polly Sanfacon
Mr. Kelleher explained the services provided and location of the New Beginnings shelter. He explained the use through the Gilford Police Department. Mr. Kelleher spoke in favor of the Article.
Meg Jenkins spoke in favor of the Article.
Terry Stewart spoke in opposition of the Article. Mr. Stewart further explained that we are already supporting these agencies through our state and federal tax dollars and grant programs.
Leo Sanfacon spoke in favor of the Article and invited Mr. Stewart to visit these 4 non-profits that he belongs to. He encouraged the Budget Committee to come and see what is going on in these communities and stated that this society is in trouble.
Terry Stewart said he would be more than happy to shadow Mr. Sanfacon and would donate his time.
Jack Stephenson spoke in opposition to the Article because of the economic times and feels it should be a matter of choice but do not take it out of the tax dollars.
No further discussion.
Doug Lambert read Article 30 as follows:
ARTICLE 30 - To see if the voters agree to have the Town’s Annual Payroll Report and Annual Vendor Payment Report published in the Town Report, beginning in 2010. Reports will include names and all benefit costs. This article will remain in effect until rescinded by the voters. (By Petition)
Motion By: Doug Lambert
Second By: Dale Channing Eddy
Mr. Lambert explained that he would like information posted in the annual town report. He feels this would give a good financial picture. He demonstrated the Town of Loudon, Town of Hampstead and the Town of Hudson which provides the information in their annual report.
Pat Labonte spoke in favor of the article.
Selectman Benavides explained that there is not one employee that has received a cola (cost of living adjustment). However, the merit increase is based on a percentage.
Motion By: Tim Sullivan made a motion to amend the article to read by position and not by the individual’s name.
Seconded by: Carolyn Young-Podmore
The Moderator declared that the voice vote was in the affirmative and the amendment Passed.
No further discussion.
The Moderator read Article 31 as follows:
ARTICLE 31 - To see if the Town will vote to appoint the Library Trustees as agents to expend from the New Library Capital Reserve Fund previously established in 2000. (Majority Vote Required)
Motion By: Robert Kammeraad
Second By: Dale Pattison Eddy
Mr. Kammeraad explained the problems of having to expend with a warrant article and this process would eliminate the need for a warrant article.
Doug Lambert spoke in opposition of the Article. He would like to see the money returned to the taxpayers.
Mr. Kammeraad explained the role of the Library Trustee and the cost of the geo-thermal heating at no additional cost to the taxpayer.
Leo Sanfacon explained it is a result interest of past money appropriations. It is coming forward because there were no agents listed. The intent was to be spent on Library items.
No further discussion.
Selectman Grant read Article 32 as follows:
ARTICLE 32 - To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to convey to the County of Belknap, a 0.78 (+/-) acre parcel of land situated within the Weeks Town Forest and more particularly referenced as an easement area in a deed recorded at the Belknap County Registry of Deeds at Book 961, Page 374 and also shown as an easement area on a Survey Plan recorded at the Belknap County Registry of Deeds at Drawer L61, Plan 41; whereby said parcel is currently used and maintained as a ski trail; under such terms and conditions as the Selectmen may deem to be in the best interest of the Town. (Majority Vote Required)
Motion By: Selectman Grant
Second By: Selectman Benavides
Mr. Dunn Explained that this request came to the Selectman from the Conservation Commission.
No further discussion
Selectman Benavides read Article 33 as follows:
ARTICLE 33 - To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to convey to Gilford Village Knolls, Inc., a 3.19 (+/-) acre parcel of land situated at 43 Potter Hill Road and more particularly referenced at Tax Map 226, Lot 78-1; under such terms and conditions as the Selectmen may deem to be in the best interest of the Town; provided that the sale price shall not be less than the original purchase price of one hundred fifty thousand dollars ($150,000). (Majority Vote Required)
Motion By: Selectman Benavides
Second By: Selectman Hayes
Motion By: Ken Wilson amend Article 33 to read as follows: “To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to convey to Gilford Village Knolls, Inc., a 3/19 (+/-) acre parcel of land situated at 43 Potter Hill Road and more particularly referenced at Tax Map 226, Lot 78-1; under such terms and conditions as the Selectmen may deem to be in the best interest of the Town; provided that the sale price shall be based on a fair market appraisal to be completed by an appraiser acceptable to both the Town and Gilford Village Knolls, Inc., but in no event to be less than $110, 000.”
Seconded by: Alida Millham
Mr. Wilson explained that the negations with the town for Gilford Village Knolls. They would like to proceed with the project but at the current value of the land.
Terry Stewart asked about the issue and challenges for building on the property.
Selectman Grant expressed that the Board felt they could sit on the property at no additional cost but wants to recoup the total cost of the purchase for the taxpayer.
Jack Stephenson explained that it would be a difficult piece of property to do anything on. He thinks Mr. Wilson should change the amendment to include the assessed price.
Mr. Benavides reminded everyone that the Board is in favor to support the Gilford Village Knolls and the senior housing. However, he wanted to recoup the original cost to the taxpayer.
Alida Millham explained the $110,000 minimum would recoup the town’s obligation and that $40,000 was raised as private funds.
Richard Hickok spoke in behalf of the BC and the approach was to have patience for the market to bounce back.
Dale Channing Eddy asked about taking the loss of the donated money.
Doug Lambert is opposed to the sale of the land to a non-profit organization due to the lack of billing for property taxes.
Everett McLaughlin wanted to know if the banks would be looking at the appraised value.
Mr. Wilson said that more than likely it would not be a financial institution that would lend but a private lender and they would still be interested in the value.
A hand count was performed with the following results:
YES - 42 NO – 21
The Moderator declared the amendment Passed.
No further discussion.
Selectman Hayes read Article 34 as follows:
ARTICLE 34 - To see if the Town will vote to discontinue the Central Fire Station Expansion and Renovation Capital Reserve Fund previously established in 1995, in accordance with the provisions of RSA 35:16-a. (Majority Vote Required)
Motion By: Selectman Hayes
Second By: Selectman Grant
Selectman Hayes explained that there no longer need for the fund.
No further discussion.
Motion to Adjourn By: Selectman Grant
Second By: Selectman Benavides
Respectfully submitted,
Denise A. Morrissette
Town Clerk – Tax Collector
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