MINUTES OF THE NEWFANE SELECTBOARD
REGULAR MEETING
JANUARY 3, 2008
TOWN OFFICES
NEWFANE, VERMONT
PRESENT
Selectboard members: Joe Mandell, Dan Dewalt, Peter Rysz, Guy Wachtel,
Ellen Darrow
Also Present: Shannon Meckle, Administrative Assistant; Christopher
Williams, Road Commissioner; Todd Lawley, Road Foreman; Gunther Garbe,
Planning Commission Chair; Gary Katz; Ed Druke
The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by Selectboard Chair, Joe
Mandell.
MINUTES
The minutes of December 21 were reviewed, and the following changes
were made: Change date to December 21 instead of December 20; Note that
Dan Dewalt was present from 7:20 p.m. forward; Under FEMA, should say
Shannon to confirm numbers with Peter.
Dan Dewalt made a motion to approve as amended. Ellen seconded the
motion. Vote was unanimous.
ROAD BUSINESS
Road Commissioner's Report: Christopher Williams reported that the highway
crew has been working very hard and is really pleased with their work.
He does have some concerns with the amount of sand that the residents
are taking. Dan Dewalt made a motion to authorize Todd to order a sign
at his discretion. Peter Rysz seconded. The vote was unanimous.
Christopher mentioned a concern about the new pavement on Grimes Hill
Road and wonders if there is a warranty on the pavement. It looks like
they laid it when it was already too cold. Todd will talk to Fitzpatrick
and see if he can look into it.
Road Foreman’s Report: See Attached Report.
The consensus of the Board was that Todd should purchase grader chains
for $750.00.
Discussion ensued regarding cell towers and the Newfane Cell Tower Ordinance.
UNSCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
Ed Druke approached the Board regarding cars parking at the ends of
their driveways so that the snow doesn't go in their driveways, and
that it's been a problem the highway crew. The board will take it under
advisement, and encouraged the Road Foreman to contact law enforcement
if necessary.
The Board questioned restriction of trucks on roads during mud season.
Shannon will look into this and get back to the Board.
SCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
There were no scheduled members of the public.
NEW BUSINESS
Wage Increases: Gary Katz reiterated his concerns about the Board automatically
warning the treasurer's request for a 30 percent pay increase.
At this time, Guy Wachtel made a motion to rescind the motion from a
prior meeting allowing the article to be put in the warning. Peter Rysz
seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.
Taxpayer Gary Katz initiated lengthy discussion surrounding requested
increase in wages. No action was taken.
OLD BUSINESS
Anti-Idling: After reviewing Dan Dewalt's draft of the anti-idling resolution,
Guy Wachtel made a motion to approve the resolution. Ellen Darrow seconded
the motion. The vote was unanimous.
Town Office Telephones: After a short discussion, it was the consensus
of the Board that phone system should automatically answer the phones.
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT’S REPORT:
See attached report.
CORRESPONDENCE:
Doris Knechtel submitted a memo regarding her retirement. She is resigning
her position as Lister for 90 days and upon reappointment by the Board,
will resume her duties on February 4, 2008.
PAY WARRANTS:
Guy Wachtel made a motion to approve the pay warrants as presented.
Peter Rysz seconded the motion.
Pay Orders: 01/04/08, $17,814.73
Payroll:
12/26/07 $4,785.52
01/0208 $4,672.78
01/04/08 $2,178.44
IRS Electronic Payment: 12/22/07 – 12/26/07: $1,780.87
The motion passed unanimously.
Peter Rysz made a motion to adjourn at 8:30 p.m. Guy Wachtel seconded
the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Respectfully Submitted,
Shannon Meckle, Administrative Assistant
Posted At: Town Clerk's Office, Newfane Store, Williamsville/South
Newfane Post Office, and South Newfane General Store & Deli. www.newfanevt.com
(after approval)
