PITTSFIELD SELECT BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

 
 
DATE:    March 18, 2021
 
PRESENT: (virtually) Ann Kuendig, Joyce Stevens, A.J. Ruben
 
PUBLIC PRESENT: (virtually) Betty Warner
 
AGENDA
 
AGENDA MODIFICATIONS: 
1.Cemetery bid request – NB#5.  
2.Portable radios at Town Office – NB#6.  
 
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:  March 4, 2021 Regular Meeting
 
CORRESPONDENCE:
1.Isabelle Green – RCSWD
2.New Truck – George Deblon
3.Prevent Child Abuse VT - flyer
4.VT Homestead/Property Tax Credit - flyer
5.Resolution Request – Betty Warner
 
OLD BUSINESS:
1.Legislative Report – Rep. Kirk White
2.Rules of Procedure – Adoption
3.Dog License – Penalty Deferral
4.Appointed Town Officials – Update
5.Rutland County Solid Waste District – Admission Update/Ordinance Amendment
 
NEW BUSINESS:
1.Historical Society – Offices
2.Local Emergency Management Plan 2021 – Update
3.Liquor License Renewal – Clear River Inn and Tavern
4.Treasurer’s Report – February Financials
5.Cemetery bid request – George Deblon
6.Portable radio at Town Office.
 
NEXT MEETING DATE:  April 1, 2021
 
ADJOURNMENT:
 
Ann called the meeting to order at 6:05pm.  Joyce seconded.  All in favor.  Ann presented the first agenda modification and Joyce the second (see above).  Ann asked to hear a motion.  Joyce motioned to accept the two Agenda Modifications.  AJ seconded.  All in favor.  Ann presented the Minutes of the March 4th regular meeting for approval.  AJ seconded.  All approved.
 
Correspondence:
1.       Isabelle Green – RCSWD.  Ann said that she responded to Isabelle’s letter requesting information on the timeline for the use of the Rutland County Solid Waste District in Rutland.  Ann said early April and would have more information under NB#5.  No action on that.
2.       New Truck – George Deblon.  Ann said that she put this on the agenda for the record.  George informed the Board that the new truck had been delivered and upon inspection, he found holes in the chain bed that need to be fixed and feels the need to sand blast the body and frame and have it painted as a rust preventative.  He obtained an estimate from Earle’s for $8,076.07.  He is requesting permission to take funds from the Equipment Fund and then replace them when the current truck is sold.  He is expecting to ask a minimum of $10,000.00.  Ann noted that the truck was purchased from Sheldon Motors as it was used as a trade-in by Braintree.  Discussion about the repairs.  They agreed to have George get a current estimate of work and go to Sheldon Motors and see what they have to say.  AJ made a motion to accept George’s request but breakout the cost of the repairs.  Ann seconded.  All in favor.
3.       Prevent Child Abuse VT – flyer.  This organization is asking communities and businesses to purchase pinwheels (at $1.00/) and plant a “garden” to honor Child Abuse Prevention Month in April.  It was suggested this might be something for the Pittsfield Community Connections (PCC).  Betty said she would approach members of the group. Joyce suggested planting them by the two cemetery entrances.  Questions were asked as to whether the Town should purchase them (100 suggested), whether PCC should be approached (not enough time for outreach), and whether the Cemetery Commissioners would need to be contacted (which they would).  Ann said she would have Trish forward the flyer to both Betty and Joyce.  Joyce said the Swiss Farm Inn could purchase 150 and donate 100 of them to the Town. 
4.       VT Homestead/Property Tax Credit -flyer.  Discussion.  The Board will direct the Town Clerk to post the flyer for the public in both cases and bulletin boards.  Betty will add it to the Listers page on the Town’s website.  Ann suggested also adding it to the Town’s website homepage.
5.       Resolution Request – Betty Warner.  Her request pertains to the removal of the Black Lives Matter sign by a vandal that was outside the Swiss Farm Market.  She requests that the Select Board sponsor a community discussion on race, etc. and create an official statement.  Discussion.  Ann deferred to Joyce who said the sign removal was very upsetting.  She said that some people do not understand it.  Since then, the sign has been replaced, but she added that some people would not come in the store because of the sign being there.  AJ suggested a statement in the Minutes stating that the Select Board does not condone racially based vandalism or harassment.  Ann felt it was appropriate to write and sign a resolution.  It is entirely within the Select Board’s responsibility to immediately respond.  Ann proposed a resolution now versus a community forum.  There was discussion as to the wording and what it would encompass.   Perhaps a forum could be held in the future.  Betty referenced a page in the Pittsfield history book pertaining to the schoolhouse and an event that happened on February 10, 1881.  AJ said the Town Clerk should be directed to post the resolution as a separate document and reference the statement in the Pittsfield History book, page 32.  Ann asked AJ if he would be willing to draft a resolution.  He said he would.  Ann made a motion to draft a resolution and direct the Town Clerk to post on the website and bulletin boards and that Betty work on a forum on racial injustice.  Joyce seconded.
 
OLD BUSINESS:
1.       Legislative Report – Rep. Kirk White.  He was not available this evening.  Ann will invite him to the next meeting.
2.       Rules of Procedure – Adoption.  As a vote needs to be taken on this, Ann motioned to approve and adopt the Rules of Procedure.  AJ seconded.  All in favor.
3.       Dog License – Penalty Deferral.  Ann said that she heard from VLCT and drafted a notice for the Town Clerk to post stating that late fines and penalties will be deferred from April 1st to May 1st.  After that, a late fee of $25 per dog will be imposed and after June 1st, a penalty of $15 per month will be imposed.  Ann motioned to accept this notice.  Seconded by AJ.  All in favor.
4.       Appointed Town Officials – Update.  A change in wording for the delegates to EC Fibernet will be changed to Delegate to EC Fibernet Governing Board.  As for the alternate to the Rutland County Solid Waste District Board of Supervisors, Ann will contact Suana Rubin to see if she will be willing to take on that position.  AJ said that Tim Carter has agreed to serve as one of the Emergency Management Co-Directors.  Ann suggested approaching Doug and Tim about taking a seminar on Emergency Preparedness.  She would also be interested.  The Town Hall Building Committee has set up a five-member appointed Pittsfield Building Advisory Board as a permanent committee to meet on a quarterly basis with the Select Board’s building rep to address issues with all Town-owned buildings.  The committee will consist of Herb Kuendig, Jeremy Rayner, Tim Carter, Mike Moran, and Glenn Reinauer.  AJ said that Marsha Hopkins has consented to serve another term on the Planning & Zoning Commission but may resign before her three years are up.  Ryan Thompson has expressed an interest in serving.  Discussion.  The Board decided to ask Ryan to sit in on meetings and assume Marsha’s position in the event she does resign.  He will act as her alternate.  Ann motioned to approve and update the above-mentioned positions and appointees.  Joyce seconded.  All in favor.  The Secretary was asked to send out letters of appointment to those needing them.  She was also asked to contact Sarah Gallagher and apprise her as to Ryan Thompson’s role on the commission.
5.       Rutland County Solid Waste District (RCSWD) – Admission Update/Ordinance Amendment.  Ann attended their recent meeting and said that Pittsfield has officially been accepted.  They next hold a public meeting to update their State agreement.  Once the agreement is approved by the State, we can get the word out.  Ann said she also requested the Board of Supervisors consider some sort of rebate.  They said they would take it under advisement at their next meeting, which Ann said she would attend.  For Pittsfield residents to apply for a pass, they will need to present their Vermont automobile registration showing a Pittsfield address.  Second homeowners and residents without Vermont plates will not be able to purchase permits at the district rate. Ann stated that Article Five of the Town’s Solid Waste Ordinance needs to be updated to “Rutland County Solid Waste District” and she proposed approving the update.  Joyce seconded.  All were in favor.  Following ordinance procedures, this will be sent to Trish who will need to advertise in the Randolph Herald and post in public for 60 days.
 
NEW BUSINESS:
1.       Historical Society – Offices.  Ann said she was unable to reach out the Chuck Colton regarding the historical society effects in the Town Hall.  They need to be cleared out to allow for the tables and chairs from downstairs to be stored on the stage.  The Board would like to discuss with them how they can be helped to move and support them as a Town organization.  The Town needs to have an Historical Society.  Joyce said that she proposed that the basement of the Town Office Building
 be used as a display and meeting space for the Historical Society.  With past leadership having stepped down, Ann will contact Chuck and invite him to the next meeting.  Ann proposed that the Board extend an invitation to the society to meet and discuss their home and plans for the future.  Joyce seconded.  All in favor.
2.       Local Emergency Management Plan (LEMP) 2021 – Update.  Ann said that basically there are only a few pages that need to be updated.  These include the contact page and who will organize and review the document.  Dave Colton should review the list of those who need to be checked on in the event of an emergency.  She will have Victoria Littlefield send copies to AJ and Joyce and will speak with Trish about reconsidering the admin position as this is an important part of the plan.
3.       Liquor License Renewal – Clear River Inn and Tavern.  Ann motioned to approve all four of the following license applications.  Joyce seconded. All in favor.  They are: 1) First Class, 2) Second Class, 3) Outside Consumption, and 4) Third Class.
4.       Treasurer’s Report – February Financials.  Ann had a question about the payment to Saguaro Technologies.  Joyce said it was the monthly maintenance fee.  It was brought up that the Listers should be paying 1/3 of the monthly fee for their computer.  Ann said she would have Trish check to see if the bill was split 1/3-2/3.  There was also a question on the CV Oil fuel bill for the town hall. Joyce Will talk with Trish about this.
5.       Cemetery Bid request – George Deblon.  George would like to have Harvey’s do the work and not put the job out to bid.  He obtained a cost of $14,200 for the project.  FEMA funds (75% of total estimated costs $15,500) are already in hand.  Right now, the Town is waiting for the State to   Pay its share (17.5%). The town clerk has been told the state will not pay until all the disaster mitigation projects have been completed.  This means until the Box Culvert on Upper Michigan Road is completed (which can not start until July 1 and end no later than October 1), the State will not release their payment to Pittsfield.  Discussion.  The Board agreed that the cemetery project did not qualify for an exemption from the towns procurement policy which states that projects $10k have to be formally bid. There was concern that Not following it could jeopardize payments by FEMA and the State.  Ann felt that reaching out to Mosher’s and Casella would not be a problem.  AJ made a motion to have the project put out to bid.  Seconded by Joyce.  All in favor.  George will be asked to prepare a bid and present it to the Select Board to approve.
6.       Portable radio at Town Office.  Joyce said that the Fire Department had asked about the whereabouts of the three new radios.  They would like to give them to George.  They also would like to get one from Doug Minelli and give that one to the office.  It was felt that George and Dave could each have one when plowing to aid in communication.  In the event of an emergency, one could be brought back and given to Trish.  There was also talk of perhaps purchasing another radio for Tim Carter.
 
Next Meeting Date:  April 1, 2021 at 6pm virtually.
 
 
As there was no other business to discuss, Ann motioned to adjourn the meeting at 7:52pm.  Joyce seconded all in favor.
 
Respectfully submitted,
                                                                                                               
s/Martha L. Beyersdorf, Secretary
 
Approved: April 1, 2021
 
 
                                                      /                                                                  /
           Ann Kuendig                                        Joyce Stevens                                       A.J. Ruben

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

PITTSFIELD SELECT BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

 
“To listen to a recording of the meeting please click here” https://fccdl.in/LbEV9MC0Kr 
 
DATE:   March 4, 2021
 
PRESENT: (virtually) Ann Kuendig, Joyce Stevens, A.J. Ruben
 
PUBLIC PRESENT: (virtually)
 
AGENDA
 
AGENDA MODIFICATIONS:  
 
CORRESPONDENCE:  
 
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:  February 18, 2021 Regular Meeting, February 27, 2021 Town Meeting Informational Meeting
 
NEW BUSINESS:
       1.    Select Board re-organization
       2.     Rules of Procedure
        3.    Conflict of Interest
        4.    Appointed Officials
         5.    Dog licensing deadlines & Ordinance
         6.    Town Office Elevator Repair
 
NEXT MEETING DATE: March 18, 2021
 
OTHER BUSINESS:
 
ADJOURNMENT:
 
Ann called the meeting to order at 5:59pm.  Joyce seconded.  All in favor. 
 
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:  Motion made by Joyce to approve the Minutes of February 18, 2021 Regular Meeting and February 27, 2021 Town Meeting Informational Meeting.  Seconded by Ann.  All approved.  
 
NEW BUSINESS:
1.     Select Board re-organization.  Ann welcomed A.J. as the newest member.  Ann asked for nominations for Chair.  Joyce nominated Ann, seconded by A.J.  Motion passed.  Ann accepted. Ann asked Joyce if she was interested in the position of Vice Chair. Joyce said she would prefer to do the orders.  A.J. said he would take Vice Chair as he felt procedurals was something, he was good at. Ann reviewed the duties of Vice Chair.  Ann replied that the Vice chair backs up the Chair, assumes the chair duties in their absence, makes up the agenda, runs the meetings and on occasion, deals with the media. Joyce was nominated to do the Orders by A.J., seconded by Ann.  Motion passed.  Ann asked A.J. if he would be Vice Chair.  A.J. accepted.  Ann said that at some 
point she would like all members to learn how to do orders.  Ann would like to see the Building committee position be a bit more pro-active.  She used the recent elevator repair issue as an example and how hard it is to find services when needed and then being subject to whatever they charge.  Joyce said that the Town Hall Building Committee had been approached about serving as an advisory committee to the Select Board about maintenance and repair work on all town properties. Since Ann is the administrator and Board liaison for the Town Hall Committee she agreed to handle Buildings for the Board. Ann said she would ask the chair of the building committee to propose expanding the committees charge to include all town properties and report back to the board about making the committee a standing advisory board.
2.     Rules of Procedure.  Ann reviewed these for informational purposes.  It will be posted in the Town Office entryway for signatures.  
3.     Conflict of Interest.  This is another item that needs signatures.  Ann went on to say that this document as well as the Procedure Upon Receipt of a Complaint apply to all elected and appointed town officials, and that the documents should be posted under ordinances and policies on the town website.
4.     Appointed Officials. The Board reviewed the Appointed Officials listing and made their choices except for Emergency Management Co-Directors.  Four names were suggested for the vacant emergency management co-director position. A.J. will contact each and report back to the Board.  A few additional names for some other positions such as the planning commission were suggested in case some appointees opted to decline. The addition of a Delegate to the Rutland County Solid Waste District Board of Supervisors was made to the listing. Ann said she would like to accept that position as she has been working with Mark Shea and has been asked to attend the meeting in which the Board will vote on admitting Pittsfield to the district. Resident Suana Rubin had written to the Select Board with a question.  It was suggested she be asked to serve  as an Alternate, but this will be discussed later. Ann made a motion to accept the appointees and position updates and have the Secretary send letters to them.  Joyce seconded.  All in favor.  Joyce made a motion to pay the Secretary the sum of $25 for this extra duty. Ann seconded.  All in favor.  (A listing of newly appointed officials is added at the end of these Minutes.)
5.     Dog licensing deadlines & Ordinance.  The Board discussed whether to defer the penalty for not licensing dogs until May 1st due to COVID restrictions, the same as last year.  Ann said she reached out to VLCT to see if the Board still had the authority to do this or did the executive order expire the first of the year, but has not heard from them. Ann said that last year the Board adopted some changes to the ordinance regarding lowering, but accruing penalties for those who continue to disregard the licensing law.  A.J. disagreed with some of the penalties.  He moved to reopen the issue.    A.J. urged the use of peoplepower in reaching out instead of threatening owners with fines, etc.  Ann said she would ask the Town Clerk to post any changes to the penalty deadline on the town website once she hears from VLCT.
6.     Town Office Elevator Repair.   Ann wanted to put on the record that the Board approved paying $300+ for the repair, but agreed with Tricia’s suggestion to wait until the button breaks again before hiring the company to do the costlier permanent repair.  Discussion of cost of repair and lack of authorized repair companies.  Ann motioned to approve the payment for the repair. Seconded by A.J.  All in favor.
 
NEXT MEETING DATE:  March 18, 2021 at 6:00p remotely.
 
OTHER BUSINESS:
1.     It was noted that Joyce will be away for the next meeting, however she said she would call in.  Coverage for the Orders was going to be needed for the weeks of 3/22 and 3/29.  Ann said she would do them. 
2.     Joyce asked when the Board might be able to meet in person. This was discussed regarding vaccinations by members and if a computer could be available at the meetings.  Joyce thought maybe Trish would start attending meetings again.  Ann said that Trish listens to the Minutes, reads the agenda and brings things to the Boards attention. Ann felt the only time it might be helpful to attend would be to present the Treasurer’s Report in the event of a question and not having to wait for an answer.  
3.     Trish will be obtaining the Select Board Handbook for A.J. when she gets it from Mona.  If Trish cannot obtain it, one will be ordered from VLCT.
4.     The results of Town Meeting Day voting are on the Town’s website.
 
As there was no further business to discuss, Ann made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:16pm.  Joyce seconded.  All in favor.
 
Respectfully submitted,
                                                                                    
s/Martha L. Beyersdorf, Secretary
 
Approved: March 18 2021
 
 
                                                     /                                                                 /
           Ann Kuendig                                        Joyce Stevens                                      A.J. Rube
 
 
 
PITTSFIELD SELECT BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES                                               page 4
March 4, 2021
 
On March 4, 2021, the following appointments were made by the Pittsfield Select Board:
 
            Name                           Position                                                           Term
 
            David Colton                Civil Defense                                                   one year           AL
            Greg Martin                 Civil Defense                                                    one year           AL
            Michelle Hunt              E911 Coordinator                                            one year           AL
            Elizabeth Warner        EC Fibernet Delegate                                      one year           AL
            Herb Kuendig              EC Fibernet Delegate, Alternate                    one year           AL
            Doug Mianulli              Emergency Management Co-Director          one year           AL
            Vacant                           Emergency Management Co-Director          one year
            Matt Corron                 Energy Coordinator                                         Three year        (2023)
            Joyce Stevens               Energy Coordinator Alternate                        Three year        (2023)
            Rebecca Steward        Green Up Coordinator                                      one year           AL
            Maggie Rice                  Green Up Coordinator                                     one year           AL
            Connie Martin              Park Commissioner                                          one year           AL
            Jennifer Howard          Planning & Zoning Commission                     Three year        AL
            Marsha Hopkins          Planning & Zoning Commission                     Three year
            George Deblon            Road Commissioner                                         one year           AL
            Ann Kuendig                 Rutland County Solid Waste District             one year 
            Vacant                            RCSWD Alternate                                              one year
            George Deblon             TAC Representative                                          one year           AL
            Jeremy Rayner             Tree Warden                                                       one year           AL
            Sarah Gallagher           TRORC Representative                                     one year           AL
            Tricia Fryer                    Unemployment Compensation Rep              one year           AL
            Martha Beyersdorf      WRVA Representative                                       one year
            A.J. Ruben                     Zoning Administrator                                        one year           AL                    
            Herb Kuendig               Zoning Board of Adjustment                           three years       AL
            Vacant                           Zoning Board of Adjustment                           three years
 
AL=appointment letter

            PITTSFIELD ANNUAL TOWN MEETING INFORMATIONAL HEARING MINUTES
            PITTSFIELD SELECT BOARD & SCHOOL BOARD OF DIRECTORS
            DRAFT
 
To listen to and view a video of this meeting please go to www.pittsfieldvt.com and click on the link to the meeting
 
DATE:  February 27, 2021
 
SELECT BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: (via Teams) Ann Kuendig (Chair), Joyce Stevens, A.J. Ruben
 
SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: (via Teams)Kris Sperber (Chair), Ray Rice, Peter Dubois (not present)
 
OTHERS PRESENT: Trish Fryer (Town Clerk & Treasurer), George Deblon (Moderator), Jordan Stevens (IT Moderator)
 
PARTICIPATING VIA TEAMS: 20-25 residents and observers
 
AGENDA
 
CALL TO ORDER
 
WELCOME & PARTICIPATION INSTRUCTIONS:
 
AGENDA MODIFICATIONS:
 
NEW BUSINESS:
1.    Review and discuss Article 3: Will the voters of Pittsfield authorize all current taxes be paid to the Treasurer unless otherwise noted?
2.    Review and discuss Article 4: Will the voters of Pittsfield authorize the Treasurer to collect taxes on real property in two installments, on or before the third Thursday of August and the third Thursday of November, by physical delivery to the tax collector before 5 pm?
3.    Review and discuss Article 5: Will the voters of Pittsfield reallocate the Pittsfield Volunteer Fire & Rescue SCBA Reserve Fund for Equipment and deposit $2,100 from general fund surplus in this Equipment Reserve Fund?
4.    Review and discuss Article 6: Will the voters of Pittsfield deposit $90,400 from general fund surplus in the PVF&R Truck Reserve Fund?
5.    Review and discuss Article 7: Will the voters of Pittsfield deposit $25,000 from general fund surplus in the Town Hall Reserve Fund to complete Phase One and Phase Two repairs?
6.    Review and discuss Article 8: Will the voters of Pittsfield deposit $67,000 from general fund surplus in the Highway Equipment Reserve Fund for a grader?
7.    Review and discuss Article 9: Will the voters of Pittsfield establish a reserve fund to be called Town Office Maintenance and deposit $7,500 from general fund surplus in the fund for repairs and maintenance?
8.    Review and discuss Article 10: Shall the voters of Pittsfield withdraw from the White River Alliance Solid Waste program and approve the terms and conditions of an agreement to join the union municipal district known as the Rutland County Solid Waste District?
9.    Review and discuss Article 11: Will the voters of Pittsfield approve the proposed budget to meet the expenses and liabilities of the town?
10.  Review and discuss Article 12: Will the voters of Pittsfield authorize the Select Board to buy and sell real estate?
 
Discussion of other non-binding business
Motion to Adjourn
 
ANNUAL SCHOOL MEETING
AGENDA
 
Call to order
 
New Business:
1.    Article 2: To see if the Pittsfield School District will vote to pay taxes in the same manner as the Town.
2.    Article 3: Shall the voters of the Pittsfield School District approve a total budget in the amount of $1,014,329 for the 2021-22 school year?  It is estimated that this proposed budget will result in education spending of $14,649 per equalized pupil.  This projected spending is 11% lower than spending for the current year.
3.    Article 4: To elect a School Director for a three-year term.
 
Discussion of other non-binding business
 
Motion to Adjourn
 
Ann welcomed everyone and called the meeting to order at 10:00am.  Joyce seconded.  All In favor. Ann proceeded to introduce A.J. Ruben as the newest Select Board member replacing Mona Colton. A.J. has served the Town for years and we thank him for his service.  
 
COVID-19 has made it so that towns are not able to meet in person due to distancing, etc. The State Legislature, last year, enacted Act 162 which gives towns the ability to hold Town Meeting and vote via Australian ballot for this year only.  Both the Select Board and School Board voted to do this.  This allows all registered voters to elect town officers, vote on Articles and the budget by preprinted ballot.  These ballots have been available since February 10thfor early/absentee voting.  The Town Office Building will be open on Tuesday, March 2ndfor in-person voting as well.  By law, this informational meeting must be held before Town Meeting Day to allow us to meet and discuss Articles on the Warning.  No decisions or changes can be made, however.
 
Ann proceeded to go over how the Moderator can recognize someone who is using devices such as computers, tables, smart phones, and regular telephones.  
 
Ann made a motion to turn the meeting over to the School Board.  Seconded by A.J.  All in favor.  A motion was made and seconded by Joyce to adjourn the Town Meeting at 10:07am. All in favor. The Town will reconvene following the School’s meeting.
 
Kris Sperber called the School Meeting to order (at 10:07am) and asked if anyone had any questions regarding their Warning.  She added that this had been a great year and was happy that Ray Rice was here today.  The other Board member is Peter Dubois, and he is working today, but hopes to call in. She said that the School Board Report and budget were straight-forward, and she would entertain questions.  She went on to say that she would be willing to run again for a 3-year term.  
Jennifer Wall Howard:  asked if when someone is named on the ballot for a position is it assumed they want to be re-elected? Response: It was felt that it was safe to assume that the current officer would be running again and just had not confirmed that fact.  
Ray Rice wanted to acknowledge Killington’s School Board members, particularly Jennifer Iannantuoni who is retiring after many years of service.  
 
As there were no further questions, Kris motioned to turn the meeting back over to the Town.
Ann made a motion, seconded by A.J., to reconvene the Town Meeting at 10:13am.  Ann then turned the meeting over to the Moderator to introduce the Articles for discussion.
 
NEW BUSINESS:
1.    Review and discuss Article 3:Will the voters of Pittsfield authorize all current taxes be paid to the Treasurer unless otherwise noted?
George said that this Article is on the Warning each year and is more of a housekeeping article.  There were no questions.
2.    Review and discuss Article 4: Will the voters of Pittsfield authorize the Treasurer to collect taxes on real property in two installments, on or before the third Thursday of August and the third Thursday of November, by physical delivery to the tax collector before 5 pm.
George said that this was also more of a housekeeping article.  There were no questions.
3.    Review and discuss Article 5:Will the voters of Pittsfield reallocate the Pittsfield Volunteer Fire & Rescue SCBA Reserve Fund for Equipment and deposit $2,100 from general fund surplus in this Equipment Reserve Fund?  
Jennifer Wall Howard: indicated that there are a number of articles moving monies from the General Fund surplus.  Can anyone explain the General Fund surplus?  Is this money that has already been raised.  Response: Yes.
Ann provided an explanation as to how the surplus originated.
Charles Piso: wanted to know if the fire department got the SCBAs and are all set, and this money is being put towards equipment in the future? Response: Ann responded, what this article does is rename the reserve fund the Fire department used to purchase new tanks last year for their self-contained breathing apparatus. Currently, that fund which will be renamed the PVF&R Equipment Fund, contains $4,892. The Fire Department realized this savings because it was awarded a grant to buy some tanks. The Article requests voters to approve depositing  $2,100  to fund the first year of a five-year capital improvement plan that the fire department submitted to the Select Board. This Equipment Reserve Fund  would go towards the future purchase of turn-out gear, a pump trailer and thermal camera.  This first-year deposit will come from surplus funds in the General Fund.
 There were no other questions.
4.    Review and discuss Article 6:Will the voters of Pittsfield deposit $90,400 from general fund surplus in the PVF&R Truck Reserve Fund?  
Ann provided an overview of the Article. Over the last two years, voters have approved depositing $7,500 into the fire departments truck reserve fund. This year, upon request of the Select Board, the fire department submitted a comprehensive capital improvement plan to replace outdated fire engines and rescue vehicles, two vehicles within five years and the third within 12 years.  Replacement costs for the first two vehicles were estimated at $370,000 and $400,00 for the third. During budget deliberations, the 
Select Board adjusted for money that was already in the fund and the 2024 payoff of the truck note and came up with this year’s $90,400 contribution. Since there was such a large budget surplus this year, the Select Board decided to put it towards one time spending on each department’s capital budget requests as well as offer tax relief.
There were no questions.
5.    Review and discuss Article 7: Will the voters of Pittsfield deposit $25,000 from general fund surplus in the Town Hall Reserve Fund to complete Phase One and Phase Two repairs?
Ann gave an overview of the Article and project. Phase one to install an additional support system for the first floor has been completed under budget. With just over $10,000 left in the reserve account for repairs, the Committee is focused on cleaning up the downstairs to restore the kitchen area and drop-ceiling which had to be dismantled during construction, update the wiring and lighting and sheetrock several walls. This winter, Committee members are monitoring the basement for flooding which will help  decide in the spring how to stop or divert any water from getting into the building. The Committee will soon be calling for the final inspection as required by the State permit in order to get an occupancy permit and officially reopen Town Hall.  The Committee is ready to complete phase one and tackle phase two which is insulating and residing the exterior walls.  By employing the same barn-raising style of project management, putting work parties together with volunteers, the committee believes they can bring phase two in successfully and is requesting $25,000 for the work.  
Charles Piso: wanted to know if Phase One had been completed?  Response: Ann said that one remaining task cannot be completed until spring.  There were no further questions.
 
6.    Review and discuss Article 8:Will the voters of Pittsfield deposit $67,000 from general fund surplus in the Highway Equipment Reserve Fund for a grader?  
Dave Larkin: wanted to know if this money is dedicated to the purchase of a grader? Response: George said that he had no plans to purchase a grader at this time.  The Town’s grader is 26 years old and has 12,000 hours and some day will have to be replaced.  The money will be put aside for when we do. There were no other questions.
 
7.    Review and discuss Article 9: Will the voters of Pittsfield establish a reserve fund to be called Town Office Maintenance and deposit $7,500 from general fund surplus in the fund for repairs and maintenance?
Charles Piso: stated that the Planning Commission is working to obtain a grant for the purchase of a generator for Town Hall.  Is this money going towards capital planning? Response: Ann said that no, it wasn’t. It was more for deferred maintenance such as dry rot, painting, and work on the cupola.  These jobs have been estimated to cost approximately $5,000.  The money in the newly established fund was more for Town property inspections on a regular basis, so that things could be addressed and repaired before they became major repairs.  
Charles Piso: With the Town Hall reopening, he’d like to see some consideration put towards the emergency management perspective for the Town, such as an emergency shelter. Response: Ann agreed and added that the Planning Commission is currently looking for a grant that could help with this issue.  There were no further questions.
8.   Review and discuss Article 10:Shall the voters of Pittsfield withdraw from the White River Alliance
Solid Waste program and approve the terms and conditions of an agreement to join the union municipal district known as the Rutland County Solid Waste District?
Ann presented an overview of this Article. If approved, the Rutland facility district manager will formally bring this before their Board of Directors.  She explained how this change would affect the Town and its residents. The town will not have to pay any membership fee.  Residents would pay $15 for the Rutland District permit and then $2 to $5 per bag depending on the size, recyclables are free. The Transfer station is open six days a week from 7 to 3pm. If voters decide to stay with White River, the Town will have to pay the annual membership fee which is $6,300 this year. Residents pay $3 to $8 per bag depending on the size, recyclables are $3 a visit and the Facility is open four days a week from 7 to 1pm.
Dave Larkin: had a question about the recycling.  He thought it was supposed to be free. The South Royalton facility is charging for recycling.  Response: George said the recycling is still free, but their charge is for a visit.  
Jennifer Wall Howard: The Casella drop off has been very convenient.  Can we have a drop off like they have in Stockbridge?  Response:  Ann said that the drop off was expensive, but the Select Board can revisit the issue if there is enough interest.  Charles Piso as a former Select Board member provided some history on this.  There were no further questions.
9.    Review and discuss Article 11:Will the voters of Pittsfield approve the proposed budget to meet the expenses and liabilities of the town?
Kim Harris: asked if someone could speak to the surplus in the budget.  Response: Ann explained that the Select board scrutinized every budget line item to reduce spending in labor, office supplies, transition and training, town officer education, town officer mileage. The Select board did not make annual contributions to several reserve accounts like recreation and computer so the Select Board can develop plans to utilize the funding to which it was intended instead of just left sitting for years.
 The Select Board funded the Contingency fund bringing it almost back to where it was before the April 2019 flooding event.
In discussions with the Town Treasurer, the Select Board reviewed and lowered funds held in reserve to pay bills between January and August before first tax revenue is received.
The money that was remaining was then disbursed to the various funds as surplus. These would be one-time expenditures and not built into the budget.
Charles Piso: had a concern about the proposed paving of Route 100 in 2021 not being addressed and where the remainder of the money would come from. Response: George said that he knew of no immediate plans for this project.  Caleb Hawley indicated the project was now slated for Summer, 2022. 
Vern Haskins: asked if someone could speak to the line-item Ford F550 in the Highway budget not appearing as an Article?  Response:  Ann explained that most of the money for a new small dump truck was already in the Highway budget as surplus and so the Board opted to leave this as a highway budget line item. Last year, George spent nearly $8,000 on repairs to the Ford F-550 and believes the time is right to replace the ten-year old truck while the town can still sell it for a decent price, somewhere between $35 to $40.  There were no further questions.
10. Review and discuss Article 12: Will the voters of Pittsfield authorize the Select Board to buy and
       sell real estate?
The question was asked how residents know if there is property for sale?  Is it listed on the website?  Response: George said that this deals mostly with tax sales and buy-outs.  Dave Larkin spoke about the Watkins property and thought it might be offered to the Green Mountain National Forest where at least the Town could receive a small monetary amount per acre.  Ann added that the Delinquent Tax Collector is working with the Town Attorney looking for ways to remove properties from the delinquent tax list.  This is ongoing.  There were no further questions.
 
Discussion of other non-binding business:
        1.   Joyce wanted to encourage everyone to be sure to file a Homestead Exemption form, even if they
              do not file Income Taxes. 
 
        2.   George thanked everyone and reminded everyone to fill out their ballot and drop it off in the
               secure box outside the Town Office Building.  He also wanted to recognize Jordan, Trish, and the
               Select Board members.
 
Motion to Adjourn:  Ann thanked George and motioned to adjourn the meeting at 11:00am.  Seconded by A.J.  All were in favor.
 
Respectfully submitted,
 
                                                                                                                              s/Martha L. Beyersdorf, Secretary
 
Approved: (date)
Pittsfield Select Board
 
                                                     /                                                                 /
           Ann Kuendig                                        Joyce Stevens                                      A.J. Ruben
 
 

 
 
Approved: (date)
Pittsfield School Board of Directors
 
                                                     /                                                                 /
           Kris Sperber                                            Ray Rice                                            Peter Dubois