Back to homepage Newfane Elementary School Telephone Directory events calendar school board meetings Newfane Business Association Meeting schedules Area Guide Board of Selectmen
 

Board of Selectmen Meeting Minutes

MINUTES - REGULAR MEETING - BOARD OF SELECTMEN
JUNE 7th, 2001
WILLIAMSVILLE HALL

Any and all corrections to the following minutes will be made at the 06/21/01 Board of Selectmen's meeting and are considered unapproved until then. Corrections will be noted in the minutes of that meeting.

PRESENT:
Selectmen: Mike Rohan, Jesse Anderson, Fred Bacon, Lynn Bedell and Richard Marek.
Also Present: Larry Underwood of Lane Construction, Ernest Kinoy, Barbara P. Kinoy, Judy Egan, Greg Andrews, Lee Anne Nooper, Nancy Riege, Barbara Brisson, James F. Brisson, Walter Phelps, Jeryl Julian, Piet van Loon - Zoning Administrator, Joan Weir - Newfane Planning Commission, Charles Bergmann (NPC), Gunther Garbe (NPC), John J. Feifel (NPC) and Sewage Control Officer, and Doris A. Knechtel, Administrative Assistant.

1. CALL TO ORDER
The regular meeting was called to order by Chairman Michael Rohan at 8:02 p.m.

2. SCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
B. OPENING OF BIDS
(2) FISCAL YEAR 2002 PAVING PROJECT
The following bids were received for the FY 2002 paving project on Dover Road (TH#2)
Company Project #1 Project #2 Total Price/Ton
Bazin Brothers Inc. $ 62,513.00 $ 1,600.00 $ 64,113.00 $ 37.10
Lane Construction Corp. $ 72,202.25 $ 1,640.00 $ 73,842.25 $ 42.85
Palmer Paving Corp. Declined invitation to bid
Warner Bros., Inc. No Bid $ $ 46.50

Before making a decision, the Board will wait until J. Gray, the Road Foreman, reviews the bids to make sure everything is in order.

2. A. NEWFANE PLANNING COMMISSION
(1) SPEED ENFORCEMENT AND TRAFFIC CALMING
Joan Weir, Chairman of the Planning Commission, reported that the PC does not have any new information to bring to the Board at this time. One area of concern, the South Newfane/Williamsville Post Office, was discussed at the meeting of May 17th, but not resolved.

M. Rohan recently put together some thoughts for a suggested plan for Speeding and Traffic Calming in the areas of Data collection, Enforcement, Signs, Painting of lines, and Post Office in Williamsville. Most of the suggestions can be realized in a relatively short period of time.

Questions were raised about changing the 35 mph sign on the eastern end of the covered bridge to 25 mph and to put in a stop sign at the Arch Bridge (BR#12). It was explained that to change a speed sign and to install a stop sign, a study needs to be done and the Traffic Ordinance would need to be amended to make the sign legal.

In the area of data collection, the Board does receive speed monitoring reports from the Sheriff's Department. Tickets are usually given to those going 10 mph over the speed limit. The reports indicate that only about one ticket per month is issued. The Board needs to meet with the WCSD to let them know what is expected in the way of a more defined, more forceful speed enforcement program through the villages. The public could be notified through the newspaper, radio and fliers to be distributed. The Board would like more accountability from the WCSD. It was also suggested that the Constable be trained for speed enforcement in order to use any means of enforcement that may be available. Additional stop signs were mentioned to be installed at various areas within the village, by Timson Hill Road and by the South Newfane/Williamsville Post Office. Cedar Street in Brattleboro was mentioned as an example of stop sign use to slow down traffic. It was mentioned that the point was not to give tickets, but to have the motorists go at a speed of not more than 25 mph.

The painting of lines on the edge of the roadway could give a sense of narrowness through the villages. Cross walks were also suggested, although crosswalks can give a false sense of security for some people.

For the next meeting of June 21st, M. Rohan will provide information regarding speed enforcement and J. Anderson will provide information on traffic signage. No one approach or item will correct the speed situation. After some of the less controversial suggestions are implemented, more ideas may be needed to help resolve the problem.

4. D. ACCESS/RIGHT OF WAY PERMITS
Jim and Barbara Brisson were present to discuss the Right of Way permit (#A01.05) that they have completed to allow them to have flower boxes within the town highway right of way on a temporary basis. They indicated that they will remove the boxes during the wintertime. The purpose is to keep cars from parking on their front lawn. They had to replace their slate walkway because of vehicles parking on it and breaking it up. J. Anderson indicated that J. Gray is opposed to allowing anything within the town highway right of way as the overall result becomes negative. J. Anderson indicated that there needs to be a consistency with perhaps a standard for 25 mph and 50 mph.

In a sense of fairness, B. Brisson asked the Board to look at what is there about what is already there within the right of way on a permanent basis; granite posts, split rail fence, etcetera. They have had the boxes out for years. The Board will look at and measure the existing "items" within the highway right of way before the meeting of June 21st at 6:15 p.m.

No other Access/Right of Way Permits required the action of the Board at this time.

NEWFANE BOARD OF HEALTH
Motion was made by J. Anderson and seconded by F. Bacon to recess the regular meeting of the Board of Selectmen and convene as the Newfane Board of Health at 9:45 p.m. Unanimous.

PRESENT:
Mike Rohan, Jesse Anderson, Fred Bacon, L. Bedell, Richard Marek and John Feifel.
Also Present: Doris Knechtel, Administrative Assistant.

A. RECOMMENDATION FOR AMENDMENT TO SEWAGE ORDINANCE
John Feifel, Sewage Control Officer, has recommended that the current Sewage Ordinance be amended to add the word LEGAL - Section 200. Application of Ordinance, Section 240. Exceptions. 241 Existing Systems. to read: "Existing legal on-site sewage disposal systems in operation at the time of the adoption of this ordinance are approved, provided that such systems do not create a health hazard or nuisance." The Board discussed the proposed amendment and decided not to consider it as the current language would cover any problems that may arise. There are systems that were in operation before there was a health/sewage ordinance permit requirement within the town that are still functioning properly and are not causing a health hazard or nuisance.

B. EXTENSION OF HEALTH PERMIT - #01-01 & 01-02 - LOT #D-40.7
John Feifel, SCO, has written to the Sorrell's, owners of property lot D-40.7 at 174 Newfane Hill Road (TH#20), about the extension of their Health Permits #01-01 and #01-02 until Saturday, June 30th to allow time for the installation of a septic system, removal of outdoor port-a-potty, and removal of trash and debris. There is currently one trailer on the property with an unfinished house. There is no water supply on the property. If the extension requests are not complied with, the family may be evicted from their property because of the deplorable conditions. J. Feifel has spoken with Dr. T. Shafer, Town Health Officer about the situation. Inquiries will be made into a possible loan for the Sorrell's for a septic system through the Newfane/Dummerston Low Housing Grant Fund. Motion was made by M. Rohan and seconded by R. Marek to draft a letter to the Reginald and Sandra Sorrell for Chairman M. Rohan to sign their health situation and to invite them to the meeting of June 21st. Unanimous.

C. UPDATE ON SITUATION OF SYSTEM AT LOT #C-015 - PENNER ROAD
John Feifel, SCO, provided the Board of Health with information from 02/09/01 regarding a meeting at Attorney T. O'Connor's office pertaining to the septic system and gray water system at the Marie Suponski property on Penner Road (TH#31). A signed Affidavit from the Suponski's was also provided to the BOH members. J. Feifel indicated that a health permit is required by M. Suponski for the new line which has been installed from the new dwelling to the old system. The BOH will discuss the matter at the June 21st meeting after the property owner, M. Suponski, and Attorney T. O'Connor have been notified.

Motion was made by F. Bacon and seconded by L. Bedell to adjourn the Newfane Board of Health meeting and to reconvene as the Newfane Board of Selectmen at 10:05 p.m. Unanimous.

5. B. OTHER OLD BUSINESS

(1) A draft letter to the USPS concerning the South Newfane/Williamsville Post Office had been prepared by P. van Loon at the request of the Board. The letter was reviewed by Joan Weir and M. Rohan. A subsequent letter was prepared by M. Rohan and reviewed by R. Marek. Comments were received for that letter from J. Weir and P. van Loon. J. Anderson suggested an additional change, to add "expanded". Motion was made by L. Bedell and seconded by R. Marek to make the changes to the letter for Chairman M. Rohan to sign. Unanimous. M. Rohan will also contact J. Weir, Chairman of the Planning Commission to have her also sign the revised letter. The Board members feel that they would like to have a meeting with the USPS representatives first before listing all of the concerns other that traffic circulation.

4. ROAD BUSINESS

A. ROAD COMMISSIONER'S REPORT - (See attached report)
(1) Item #3 - The flood work on Steep Way (TH#21) needs to start again in the near future. In order to restart the work Wm. Noyes and the contractor will need to agree on an acceptable solution for the reconstruction of the ditches which were not done originally in an acceptable manner.

4. B. ROAD FOREMAN'S REPORT - (See attached report)
No action was required from any of the items within J. Gray's report.

2. B. OPENING OF BIDS
(1) ROADSIDE MOWING
Only one bid was received.
Motion was made by L. Bedell and seconded by F. Bacon to approve the bid received from Donald Elliot for the mowing of the roadsides in Newfane as well as the Town Office field and the cap at the landfill, providing a current certificate of insurance is on file. Unanimous.

4. C. EXCESS WEIGHT PERMITS
Motion was made by F. Bacon and seconded by M. Rohan to approve the excess weight permit submitted by Vermont Electric Cooperative for 36,200#, 40,099#, and 24,099# for utility pole vehicles and equipment. Unanimous.

5. A. REVIEW AND ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE FOR CONTROL OF LITTER
The Board will delay the discussion of the Ordinance for the Control of Litter until the next meeting to be held on June 21st. L. Bedell did discuss a possible "stand alone" telecommunications ordinance rather than waiting for the Zoning Bylaw amendments. The town of Guilford has recently been having an issue about the siting of a telecommunication tower. The revised VLCT model Telecommunications ordinance should be available soon.

7. ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT'S REPORT - (See attached report)
A. Item #1 - A representative from the legislative body will be in attendance at the PC Site Plan Review on July 3rd to allow the parking at the Town Trails to have permanent status and at the ZBA hearing on June 21st for a variance for the parking for the Town Trails. The Conservation Commission will also be asked to attend.

B. Item #4 - Jane Scott asked about borrowing some tables from the Williamsville Hall for her use at a tag sale. Board members do not want the tables to be removed from the hall. Damage could be caused to the tables and to the building while carrying them in and out.

C. Item #6 - After discussion, the Board will have their first meeting in July on Monday, July 9th at 7:00 p.m. instead of Thursday, July 5th due to other scheduling conflicts.

D. The Listers have assigned a value to the town owned cemeteries as a requirement of the Act 60 process. As a result, Change of Appraisal notices for the grievance hearing on June 11th between 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon have been received. Taxes will not be assessed on the cemetery properties.

8. MINUTES
The minutes of regular meeting of 05/17/01 were reviewed by the Board. Motion was made by R. Marek and seconded by M. Rohan to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of 05/17/01 as written. Unanimous.

The minutes of the special meeting of 05/23/01 were reviewed by the Board. Motion was made by M. Rohan and seconded by F. Bacon to approve the minutes of the special meeting of 05/23/01, as written. In favor: M. Rohan, J. Anderson, F. Bacon and L. Bedell. Abstaining: R. Marek, as he was not in attendance. Motion passes.

4. E. DISCUSSION OF WILLIAMSVILLE-COVERED BRIDGE DESIGN
The discussion of the Williamsville-covered Bridge Design will take place at the Special Meeting with Vermont Historic Preservation scheduled for Thursday, June 28th. The time and the place of the meeting will be determined in the near future.

9. PAY ORDERS
Motion was made by R. Marek and seconded by L. Bedell to approve the Newfane Payroll and Accounts Payable Warrants for the following amounts:

05/19/01 Payroll $ 2,733.83
05/26/01 Payroll $ 2,694.79
06/02/01 Payroll $ 2,707.90
06/01/01 Payroll $ 2,735.10
06/08/01 Acct's Payable #26 $ 21,594.47 Unanimous.

IRS Electronic Federal Payroll Tax Payments
05/22/01 $ 1,714.72
05/29/01 $ 933.75
06/05/01 $ 927.24

10. CORRESPONDENCE
(1) The VLCT News, May 2001, publication has been received.

(2) A copy of the RSVP quarterly newsletter for spring, May 1, 2001, has been received.

11. EXECUTIVE SESSION
No matters came before the Board that required an Executive Session.

12. ADJOURNMENT
Motion was made by F. Bacon and seconded by J. Anderson to adjourn the Regular Meeting of the Board at 11:00 p.m. Unanimous.

Doris A. Knechtel
Administrative Assistant
Newfane Board of Selectmen

Posted: Town Clerk's Office, Newfane Store, Lessing's Family General Store and South Newfane General Store & Deli. www.newfanevt.com



ROAD COMMISSIONER'S REPORT - 6/7/01

1. River Road intersection plans were reviewed. Plans by Beck call for extensive work including alterations to Radway Hill Road at the point of intersection.

2. The Steep Way flood work was reviewed with Dick Flynn. It was agreed that the first (most uphill) large culvert will be extended. This will ensure that erosion of his field will progress only to the outlet of the extended culvert. The slope area at the outlet will be graded and channeled in such a way that the water will be dispersed as much as possible. These large culverts concentrate a lot of water in one place and gullies form at the outlet. The culvert is at the bottom end of his field where his fields changes to woods.

3. Steep Way flood work and flood work in general is on hold for two reasons. The poured concrete culvert headers are waiting for the concrete contractor to be available. More importantly work was stopped on the project last fall because the stone lining of the ditches was inadequate. In order to restart the work, the Town, the State (Bill Noyes) and the contractor all need to agree as to what would be an acceptable solution. Bill Noyes has been contacted and he thinks a meeting could be set up in "one or two weeks". What is in place now would not work in any heavy rains. In a 25-year flood it certainly would not work.

4. Bea MacFarland's yard was reviewed. There is nothing the town can do to prevent water from crossing the road in front of her house and going into her neighbor's yard. This is not a problem. A narrow place on S. Wardsboro Road was looked at too. The culvert headers are intact. The shoulder is eroded somewhat but this is typical of several areas in town and will be worked in due course.

5. Kroka Expeditions new sign was reviewed. It hangs within the right of way and a rope that is securing it is attached to large rocks that have been placed in the right of way very close to the road. The Zoning Administrator was contacted by Jim. Besides conforming to the Bylaws which I am not sure which ones apply, the sign certainly should not create a road hazard. This was looked at today and will be in contact with the owners about it. Does the Board know if Bylaws are applicable?

6. Rocks have been placed in the right of way by the S. Newfane church. The intent seems to be to let the grass grow at corner of the driveway. I will be suggesting that stakes and string b used on a temporary basis is this in fact is the intent. These large stones are going to be in their way for snow removal and are a hazard. They also set a bad precedent.

7. The Brissons flower boxes were reviewed relative to their right of way permit which is pending tonight. The right of way extends o a point much closer to their fence. The boxes are clearly in the right of way. The analogy of sea walls seems appropriate here. One person blocking their yard off from the road is manageable enough, but is everyone did it the traveled way would be much less safe for users of the road, both pedestrian and automobiles.

8. Road crew members are getting chances to take well-earned vacations.

9. Accesses that are underway or near completion were reviewed.

10. The State held a meeting with land-owners regards right of way permission for temporary bridges in Brookline and for the Covered Bridge. The town was not represented at these meetings, although I am glad this important step has been taken.

11. A call was received about close calls at the concrete arch bridge in Williamsville. The most serious problem seems to be people who go from Williamsville straight onto Grimes Hill without yielding to cars crossing the bridge. The yield sign at this location should be changed to a STOP sign. The narrow bridge sign for travelers approaching the bridge from the Depot Hill side should be changed to a One Lane Bridge warning sign. This should help.

Road Commissioner
Jesse Anderson



ROAD FOREMAN'S REPORT 6/7/01
TOWN OF NEWFANE HIGHWAY

1. The following roads have been worked on since the last B.O.S. regular meeting: Newfane Hill Road (TH#20) from Grimes Hill Road (TH#5) to Freeman's, River Road (TH#15) from Brook Street (TH#83) to Sawmill Road (TH#77), South Wardsboro Road (TH#1) from Severance's to Town Line, Loop Road (TH#76) Sunset Lake Road (TH#42), Timson Hill Road (TH#41), from Fawcett's to Newfane Hill Road (TH#20) and Parish Hill Road (TH#26).

2. Twenty-two and one half tons of chloride were delivered.

3. Equipment: A. A new left front spring was put in the '90 Mack. B. Two traction tires were ordered for the 406 Grader from Chesterfield Tire.

4. Guardposts are being replaced on Dover Road (TH#2).

5. Bridges to be washed soon.

Road Foreman
Jim Gray



_ To: Newfane Board of Selectmen
Memorandum From: Doris A. Knechtel
Subject: Administrative Assistant's Report
Date: June 7, 2001

1. There is a site Plan Hearing scheduled with the Planning Commission on Tuesday, July 3rd for the permanent parking for the Town Forest Trails. The ZBA hearing for the variance setback for the parking for the Town Forest is scheduled for Thursday, June 21st, the longest day.

2. The Reappraisal RFP's were sent out on May 25th to the list that you received with your information and advertised in the Brattleboro Reformer, the Rutland Herald and the Burlington Free Press. Only one additional request for an RFP was received to date.

3. Ellen Roffman called about additional signs for Wildwood Acres Road due to speeding. The speed limit is 25 mph. J. Gray went and looked at the situation.

4. Jane Scott called to ask about being able to borrow some tables from the Williamsville Hall for her use at a tag sale within the area of Williamsville.

5. Nancy Riege indicated that the lift at the hall did not work on the day of the most recent senior meal. They did finally get it to work by removing some of the chalking put in to stop the leaks by the lift door. I also mentioned it to the Draft Detective who did not see how that could have been the cause of the problem.

6. The first meeting in July for the Board is scheduled for July 5th. Does this present a conflict with any Board members with the Fourth of July holiday?
 


back to homepage



Town Offices:
Route 30, P.O. Box 36, Newfane VT 05345, Tel. (802) 365-7772

Please send all comments, suggestions and questions to info@newfanevt.com