NOTES OF MAY 11, 2015 RYE BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING

Final Revision B – Provided by the Rye Civic League

 

            Present (clockwise around table):  Town Administrator Michael Magnant, Selectmen Musselman, Jenness and Mills.

            Not present:  Town Finance Director Cyndi Gillespie (ill).

            Also present and sitting in the audience:  Public Works Director Dennis McCarthy, Interim Fire Chief Tom Lambert, Police Chief Kevin Walsh, Recreation Director Lee Arthur.         

Persons present from the public included: Victor Azzi, Peter Crawford, Frank Drake, Steve Hillman, Sally King, Ryan McGill, Tyler McGill, Carolyn Musto, Jim Raynes, Larry Rocha.

 

Editor’s note:  For ease in finding particular sections using the archived video and audio on the Town website, the elapsed time is indicated.  Use the slider and the elapsed time indicated at the bottom of the video window to fast forward to the desired section.  Videos on the Town website may currently be accessed at www.town.rye.nh.us by clicking on “Town Hall Streaming” at the bottom left of the screen.  Follow the link for “Town Hall Live Streaming,” then find the meeting by date under “Previous.”

The video starts at 7:04:43 p.m.  The audio is off until 7:05:05 p.m.

 

Summary

 

1.      The Selectmen authorized the Conservation Commission to repair damage to a Town trail after an unauthorized Jeep caused $9800 in damage.

2.      A former principal with The Shack Surf Shop was granted a permit to rent paddleboards on a drop off basis.

3.      Namaste Beach Yoga was granted a permit for yoga lessons on the beach.

4.      The Summer Sessions permit for surf camps and lessons was renewed on the same basis as 2014 after a long discussion.  Issues included the confusion over whether participants fall within the separate camp or lesson limitations, drop offs by non-residents at Sawyers Beach, and the absence of bathroom facilities there.

5.      North Hampton has confirmed its interest in having its residents use the Rye Recycling facility for a fee.

6.      The State will remove the Rosa Rugosa along Route 1A rather than trim it as requested by the Selectmen.

 

Announcements  (1:18 elapsed)

 

            The closing of the Town Offices on Memorial Day, a ceremony on the same day, and the public tour of the Pulpit Rock Tower on May 23, 2015 were announced.  Selectman Mills announced that the awarding of the Boston Post Cane had been delayed. Selectman Jenness stated that it had been due to the illness of the recipient.  Editor’s note:  The Portsmouth Herald recently announced that the cane had been awarded to Webster at Rye resident Louise Philbrick, age 100.

 

Dog waste issue at beach

 

            Selectmen Mills expressed concern about dog waste not being carried out at the beach.  The bags were apparently being left.  Public Works Director Dennis McCarthy stated that these had not been picked up as he was waiting for the Selectmen.  Selectman Mills stated that the Town is providing the bags but there are no barrels so the bags are being thrown on the ground. 

 

Consent Agenda

 

            Items (a), (b) and (c) on the Consent Agenda were unanimously approved.  Editor’s note:  The agenda refers to item (a) being the May 17, 2015 Wallis Sands Half Marathon, and item (b) being the Annie’s Angels 5K run on June 6, 2015.  The agenda available prior to the meeting includes no item (c), however the minutes refer to the Pulpit Rock Tower tours as item (c). 

 

Minutes (3:45 elapsed)

 

            The minutes of the April 09, 2015 meeting were unanimously approved with changes.  The minutes of the April 27, 2015 were unanimously approved with a minor change.  The minutes of the April 27, 2015 non-public session were unanimously approved without changes.  The minutes of the site walk on April 29, 2015 were unanimously approved without changes.

 

Repair of damage to Town trails (5:53 elapsed)

 

            Town Administrator Magnant introduced the issue and stated that Sally King, Chairman of the Conservation Commission, and Police Chief Kevin Walsh were prepared to discuss it.  He explained that someone had decided to go “four wheeling” on the Town trails and caused a substantial amount of damage.

            Chief Walsh explained that they have a suspect and that there would be charges.  It is being reviewed by the Town prosecutor.  They would like to get a “guilty conviction” with restitution attached, however the judge might not go along with that.  There are signs, he said.  Editor’s note:  Although unspecified, he was apparently referring to signs prohibiting access.  See the notes of the May 21, 2015 Conservation Commission meeting, which refers to a chain having been removed to gain access.

            Mr. Magnant explained that the projected cost of repair is $9800. 

            Sally King stated that they had only one estimate, from Rye Beach Landscaping, which had been maintaining the trail on a pro bono basis for years.  Chief Walsh has suggested that two more estimates be obtained to make the case stronger.  They want it fixed prior to a run through the area on June 6 involving 400 people.  The Jeep broke the entire understructure of the bridge, she said.

            Chief Walsh expressed concern that, due to the large amount the court might not go along with restitution, leaving the Town to pursue damages in civil court.  He stated that trial would likely not occur prior to October or November. 

            The question then arose as to the source of funds in the interim.  Sally King explained that, while there were funds in their budget, these had been earmarked for the bog bridges in the Town Forest.

            Selectman Musselman moved to authorize the Conservation Commission to proceed based on the low responsible quotes.  Ms. King agreed to get another two quotes.

 

AJ Govoni Yoga beach permit application (14:14 elapsed)

 

            Chief Walsh stated that, after a brief discussion with Ms. Govoni the permit application is being withdrawn.

 

Portsmouth Paddle Co. beach permit application (14:39 elapsed)

 

            “Wes” introduced himself and stated that he had stood before them the prior year in connection with the permit application of The Shack Surf Shop.  He stated that he understands that they would not be applying for a permit this year, although he is not aware of the status as he is no longer involved with the Shack.  Editor’s note:  See the notes of the May 12, 2014 meeting.  Also, signs recently observed at the Beach Hut (somewhat north of the Red Roof Market location used by The Shack in 2014), as well as statements before the Planning Board, indicate that The Shack may be moving into the Beach Hut building.

“Wes” asked for a permit for his “small” paddleboard operation.  Operation would be seven days a week, not just Saturday and Sunday as indicated on the application.  There may be lessons of one to two people.  Tours of up to six, not including the instructor, might be conducted.  He has eight boards at his disposal.  He would like the option of renting those out.  He stated that there would be a maximum of four students per instructor.  He is CPR certified and is the only instructor.  Editor’s note:  It is unclear how this relates to the figures of two and six stated earlier.  Life jackets would be offered to participants.  Use would not be required, but there are attachments for them on the boards.  Leashes are required by both the Town and his operation. 

Selectman Musselman asked where the boards would be picked up.  “Wes” indicated that he would meet the people at the intended location where the board would be put in.  He referred to Wallis Rd. Extension which is close to where he lives.  There might be other locations as well, he said. 

Selectman Mills asked about Seavey Creek.  He stated that ten years ago someone used to rent boards there.  “Wes” indicated that he would look into it.  Selectman Musselman stated that it is a town landing.  Selectman Mills suggested that he look into that location as it might be easier. 

“Wes” spoke about the advantage of delivering boards to rental cottages near Wallis Sands Beach as the boards would not need to be carried across the road and get banged up.  Editor’s note:  It would appear that the boards would still need to be carried across the street as many of the cabins are west of Ocean Blvd.

Selectman Mills asked whether his former partners were going to rent at the Driftwood Grill.  Editor’s note:  It appears that the Driftwood Grill was at 1215 Ocean Blvd. but is no longer active.  Another business, 603 Burgers, is located at that address.  These are across Wallis Rd. south of the Red Roof Market and the Beach Hut.

“Wes” indicated that he did not want to be involved with this group and is trying to stay as far away from them as possible.  He does not share the same view of community.  His former partner is not a Rye resident and is a “numbers guy” focused on high volume.

Chief Walsh stated that “Wes” has always been straightforward and that the insurance is in place.

Larry Rocha, Chairman of the Beach Committee expressed concerns about transporting the boards, leashes, life jackets and two or three people at a time on the boards.  He asked about the age groups that would be using the boards.

“Wes” stated that boards would need to be rented by persons of sufficient age to sign for them.  The equipment is expensive and he does not want to rent to those who might be irresponsible.  He stated that the boards would only support a little over 200 pounds. 

Selectman Jenness asked about people getting out too far and the Coast Guard needing to be called.  “Wes” denied that the Coast Guard had been called on any of their boards.

Larry Rocha suggested rules and guidelines that would be read and signed so people are informed that they should not paddle out too far.  “Wes” agreed that this would be part of the rules distributed to renters.

 

(26:16 elapsed)

Selectman Musselman asked whether his customers would be aware that the lifeguards would not protect them.  “Wes” appeared to agree to put that in writing.  He stated that rentals are not his focus as he only has eight boards.  Tours would involve up to six people with two instructors.  Activities would be based on the capabilities of the participants.

Carolyn Musto stated that the businesses are the least of the worries.  Rather it is others who have their own boards. 

The motion to approve the application carried unanimously. 

 

Namaste Beach Yoga beach permit application (29:13 elapsed)

 

            Chief Walsh introduced Magnolia Barrett, the applicant.  She would be at Jenness Beach, to the north, he said.  Ms. Barrett corrected him and said that it would be to the south, before the Brown Cottages, where she had been the prior year.  Editor’s note:  See the notes of the June 23, 2014 meeting during which the permit for 2014 was approved.  There was discussion about the tides.  Ms. Barrett stated that there would be no boom boxes, only about five people in the morning and it would be a low-key operation, although there had been as many as fifteen people in 2014. 

            Chief Walsh stated that the application was for Tuesday, 7:15 a.m. to 8:15 a.m. and then 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and the same hours on Thursday.  Friday there would only be the morning session.  The maximum students listed is fifteen.

            The application was unanimously approved.

 

Appointment to the Heritage Commission postponed (31:59 elapsed)

 

            Selectman Jenness stated that they would need to postpone the appointment of Carl Eric Johnson to the Heritage Commssion as he had surgery on Friday.  Selectman Musselman asked whether the delay was necessary.  Selectman Mills responded that “I don’t appoint unless I see a face.”  Selectman Musselman noted that the applicant was recuperating from surgery.  Selectman Mills stated that that would become another excuse.

 

Recycling Education Committee resignations (32:49 elapsed)

 

            Selectman Jenness stated that there is an e-mail from Lynde Karin indicating that she did not want to be considered for the Rye Recycling Education Committee.  Another e-mail from Susan Anderson indicates that she is resigning from the Recycling Education Committee.  Selectman Mills asked whether this was the backlash from the article being defeated.  Mr. Magnant stated that he had not heard that.  Editor’s note:  2015 Warrant Article 25, which would have implemented a pay-as-you-throw (dubbed “SMART,” for Save Money and Reduce Trash) program at the Recycling Center, was defeated 222-1272.  There was then discussion about whether there had actually been a vote on these persons.  It was noted that the Committee ended in March due to a sunset provision.  It was agreed that who had actually been appointed would be looked into.

 

North Hampton expresses interest in using Rye Recycling Center (34:33 elapsed)

 

            Selectman Jenness read a letter from Jim Maggiore, Chairman of the North Hampton Board of Selectmen.  The letter stated that Mr. Magnant had written to their Town Administrator about issuing non-resident permits to North Hampton residents.  It noted that those residents who do not contract with a hauler do not have other alternatives and are not able to access recycling programs.  It stated that the North Hampton Board of Selectmen is very interested in the proposed program. 

            Dennis McCarthy stated that the most recent discussion had been that the resident sticker program would be pursued and then the issue of North Hampton would be revisited as they were not sure that that town was still interested.  A range of costs had been discussed.  These would need fine tuning, he said.

            Selectman Musselman said that the charge would cover all of the cost and all of the labor, and the Recycling Center would only be available Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays during the day.  The brush dump would not be available. 

            Frank Drake, speaking from the audience, indicated that the program would be helpful as there are a few people from North Hampton that come anyway.  He asserted that he happened to know a few such people and he sees them there.  Selectman Musselman stated that this is the reason for requiring stickers.  Mr. McCarthy stated that other people tell him that Mr. Drake’s assertion is not correct. 

            Selectman Mills held up a card that had come in the mail indicating that someone is starting up a single stream trash business in Rye. 

 

Summer Sessions beach permit application (39:17 elapsed)

 

            Chief Walsh introduced the issue, asking Tyler McGill to confirm his understanding that the Summer Sessions beach permit was valid for two years.  He stated that he understood that the request to expand this year would be withdrawn, so that the same permit as last year would be retained.  A beach report due July 2014 had not been provided, so Chief Walsh asked Tyler McGill to come in and discuss the matter.  He came with his plan book and laptop and went through the numbers.  The top days were selected.  Those are not the average.  There are camps, lessons and rentals Monday through Friday.  That all goes on Sawyers Beach and the lessons are in front of the Brown Cottages, Chief Walsh said. 

            Chief Walsh explained that if there is a busy day such that the 35 maximum camp size would be exceeded, lessons and instructors are brought over to the camp to augment the volume.  Editor’s note:  The permit provides for lessons with smaller groups in addition to large camp.  These may be ongoing at the same time.  It appears that Chief Walsh is saying that the maximums are aggregated together such that the camp is able to exceed the limit established by the permit by deeming a portion of the camp to be considered under the separate lesson limit.  Chief Walsh stated that he believes that the report is fair and provides an accurate picture.

            Chief Walsh then suggested that permitted activities should not be permitted on the Fourth of July weekend.  Also, he suggests that there be a maximum number of permits and a drop dead date for application.  He suggested March 15.  If too many more beach permits are allowed, he does not see how harmony on the beach can be retained, particularly if there is a hot summer. 

            Tyler McGill then spoke, saying that a number of the issues in Katy’s letter had been addressed.  Editor’s note:  Katy Sherman, a member of the 2013 Beach Use Ordinance Committee had written to the Board of Selectmen regarding her concerns.  This is apparently the communication referred to during the April 13, 2015 meeting.  See the notes of that meeting.  Others might have the same concerns that she does and it was nice to be able to address them.  He passed out photos taken June 25, the first day of camp, and July 4.  Editor’s note:  He is apparently referring to 2014.  He stated that not all of Katy’s photos are from the past year.  He also passed out an updated pamphlet with rules and regulations similar to what Wes had provided. 

            Tyler McGill referred to having gone through the records and determined that, while a kids camp with 31 people was going on, there were eight people in the water by the Brown Cottages.  He asserted that that is within the scope of the permit, which allows no more than four lessons of four people including coaches and instructors.  There were zero violations during the entire year, he asserted.  He wants people to see the camps, which they are proud of.  Larry and the other members of the Beach Committee were there every day.  The kids are in the water for about a half an hour out of the two hour camp, he said.

            Tyler McGill referred to some of Katy’s photos and argued that one of them actually showed the beach all of the way to Straw’s Point, demonstrating how small their camp is relative to the entire expanse of beach.  He stated that the photo showing a parking problem could not have been taken in 2014 as it showed a school bus that they trashed and used for scrap metal prior to then. 

            Mr. McGill continued, saying that he had contacted the former Fire Chief and, through him, gotten in touch with the former Head Lifeguard.  She had been Head Lifeguard for three years and a Town Lifeguard for nine years, although he does not believe that she will be coming back.  He read the letter from her which stated that Summer Sessions had done a good job of staying out of the way.  Last year, the letter said, their main issues had been with Cable and Pirates and not with anyone from Summer Sessions. 

            Mr. McGill referred to a question relating to one vocal woman and then the response from the former head lifeguard.  It stated that she disagreed with everything that was being said.  As long as she has worked there, a town lifeguard has never entered the water to assist a Summer Sessions campers, the former Head Lifeguard’s letter said.  If anything, she said, she feels better when the Summer Sessions coaches are there.  The kids clearly love the camps, the letter said.  The letter also stated that it could be argued that the Surf Club is using a town resource because their members, including unsupervised kids, are sometimes on the beach.  Mr. McGill stated that this was not necessarily his view and that he has no issues with the Surf Club or the Beach Club. 

            Mr. McGill then addressed the parking issue.  He read a section that related to parking at Sawyers and stated that it could only be used for pickup or drop off.  He stated that he and Ryan support the officers ticketing those without stickers at Sawyers Beach. 

            With regard to Katy’s assertion that the coaches have urinated in the bushes alongside Eel Pond, they are implementing new policies for 2015, Mr. McGill said.  The first they had heard about this was a conversation with the Chief in September after the camps had ended.  All coaches will be required to sign a code of conduct that any illegal infraction would result in termination and prosecution.  Signed documents will be presented to the Chief.

            Selectman Musselman asked whether they used the Bath House.  Tyler McGill responded that they use the shop.  If during camp any coach or kid needs to use the rest room, the entire group of 1-3 walks to the toilets at Jenness Beach. 

 

(58:48 elapsed)

            Tyler McGill stated that some of the confusion resulted from using 2013 numbers as a base.  In 2013 there were two afternoon camps, 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. the last week in July and the last week in August, because some parents could not come at other times.  These were not offered in 2014.  There were zero violations in 2014.  There were never more than 12 students in the water or the camp with more than 35.  Editor’s note:  The former is apparently a reference to only the participants in the separately-accounted lessons.  The average enrollment was less than 30.  While the permit provided for stand-up paddleboard activities, there were not enough coaches or interest to support that so there were none. 

            Adults nights and ladies nights had an average enrollment of less than 10, while an enrollment of 35 was permitted.  The average day from June through August had 5-10 group lessons.  These were allowed to have four participants including the instructor.  On peak days there were 2-3 group lessons per hour.  Rentals are not tracked, but rental fees have not increased since 2012.  There are 85 boards in inventory, 45 for kids camp, 15 for lessons held during that time and 25 for direct rentals.  The numbers can shift.  Safety and town rules will be provided to all participants, he said. 

            Tyler McGill referred to the earlier statement by “Wes” that The Shack would not be present at Wallis Sands as far as any of them know.  He asserted that they are now the only surf shop in Rye.  Editor’s note:  See above.  This appears not to be the case as signs currently posted indicate that The Shack will be operating out of the Beach Hut near Wallis Rd. and Ocean Blvd.

            Chief Walsh expressed concern about the restroom facilities.  He argued that he does not have the staff to monitor that.  Based on the number of participants, something more concrete needs to be laid out.  He does not believe that going back and forth is going to work out for the employees and kids.  While he does not doubt that employees not using the rest room would be terminated, nobody but a member of the public is likely to notice.  This is not what Rye is all about, he said.  The kids are 6 to 16-18.  There is no guarantee and activities must be stopped to take kids to the rest rooms.  He suggested a Porta Potty, but recognized that there are a number of associated negatives.  It would get damaged, he said.  Selectman Mills stated that it would be tipped over the first night.  Chief Walsh continued, saying that another option might be to dedicate an employee.  There are a lot of kids and 6-11 year olds can be unpredictable.

            Selectman Jenness asked about the pick-up/drop-off situation.  Chief Walsh stated that he had already spoken to Sgt. Blais who handles parking and they are going to adjust the parking enforcement staff hours so that they can come in hour early to watch the situation.  Selectman Musselman asked why the kids could not be dropped off at Summer Sessions. 

            Ryan McGill addressed the issue of the bathrooms.  He stated that all of the coaches have beach cruiser bikes.  It’s literally thirty seconds away, he asserted.  With regard to the kids, they are there for two hours and all that they can think about is surfing and having fun. 

            Tyler McGill stated that they bring all of the equipment to the beach for the kids.  Ryan McGill stated that the kids never cross the road.  Tyler McGill asserted that their insurance company might have an issue with that.  Tyler McGill added that he has never had a problem parking at Sawyers when he comes there frequently to surf.

 

(72:14 elapsed)

            Selectman Musselman asked about the distinction between the camps and the lessons and how the populations are distinguished.  Tyler McGill stated that they are on completely different beaches, with the lessons by the Brown Cottages and the camps at Sawyers Beach.  Ryan McGill spoke about the Newburyport kids and a private lesson having been given to a group of ten kids.  Selectman Musselman asked whether, when that occurs at the same time that there are 35 kids in a camp, that means that the camp really has 45 participants.

            Selectman Musselman referred to an ad by the Portsmouth Rec. Department on the City of Portsmouth website and whether those participants would be considered part of a camp or a lesson.  He asked why those would be considered part of the 35, but Newburyport kids would not. 

            Selectman Musselman asked whether Portsmouth should be required to apply for their own permit.  He stated that he did not anticipate that other communities would be advertising for kids to come to Rye town beaches.  They are utilizing the beach and not paying any of the cost.  Tyler McGill asked what the distinction is between a kid calling from Portsmouth to sign up and one coming through the Portsmouth Rec. program.  Tyler McGill states that they do not choose based on where the participants are coming from.  They are limited by the permit regardless of where the participants are from.

            Selectman Musselman noted that, if Portsmouth was separately permitted there would be more surfers as the participants would not be limited because they would be outside of the Summer Sessions permit limit.

 

(80:22 elapsed)

            Larry Rocha stated that this had been discussed at Beach Committee meetings and there was some confusion in the differentiation between the camps and groups from Newburyport.  You can call it whatever you want.  It is a semantical argument. 

            Tyler McGill stated that they had specifically sought to clarify this issue.  Selectman Musselman had raised the valid issue of a limit being needed for the number of lessons, particularly those that could be ongoing at the same time as a camp.  A reasonable number was discussed.  Based on the fact that their staff is limited, a limit of four lessons was established.  It is not semantical, it is a pure number as there can only be 12 participants in the water at the same time. 

            Selectman Musselman noted that this makes the real limit 47, not 35.

            Mr. Rocha agreed that this clarified what was occurring.  He stated that he wants to cooperate with Summer Sessions.  Issues that he has raised have been rectified.  He then raised the issue of “stop and drop.”  He stated that he understands that the parking spots are not supposed to be used for unloading.  With regard to the bathroom issue, he wondered whether moving the camp from Sawyers to a point closer to the bathrooms would be feasible.

            Tyler McGill stated that they use Sawyers as it is the least crowded beach.  Ryan McGill stated that it was the only all surfing beach when he grew up.  Tyler McGill stated that he has a bus so that participants may be transferred to Sawyers Beach. 

            Mr. Rocha agreed that Sawyers Beach is never that crowded.

            Mr. Rocha stated that care needs to be taken as to how the camps are publicized.  That led to discussion about this.

            Selectman Musselman stated that this leads him to conclude that there should be a charge between the communities.  If Portsmouth, Newburyport and Barrington are advertising programs then they should pay for part of Rye’s beach maintenance.

            Beach Committee member Steve Hillman, speaking from the audience, stated that everyone has a right to come to the beach and do what they want.  Selectman Musselman stated that Portsmouth does not have the right to use the Rye Rec. fields without the Town’s approval.  This is an end run between the municipalities with no communication whatsoever, he asserted.  Mr. Hillman asked what the difference was between that and advertising on the side of a bus.

            Selectman Musselman said that he was not opposed to the advertising and that it is a positive as it gets more kids out there surfing.  However, there should be a charge.  That is a town meeting issue, he said.

            Frank Drake stated that he “half saw” the point.  He suggested that the advertisement refer people to Summer Sessions.  He suggested that the permit be issued for this year and that everyone keep working on “polishing this diamond.”

            Selectman Jenness stated that there was not an intent not to issue the permit, as it was granted for two years.  However, it should be recognized that Sawyers is the one beach in town that the taxpayers paid for.  That’s why the parking is resident only.  Swimmers and surfers both need equal access there.  She expressed concern that people from elsewhere rent boards at Summer Sessions and head to the Town Beach.  While it does not now appear to be overcrowded, they do not know what the situation will be in the future.  While the photos show an expanse of open space, they were taken at low tide. 

            Selectman Musselman referred to the ongoing study of parking issues and pointed out that the congestion is on the west side of the shale pile.

            Steve Hillman, 399 Central Rd., said that there is more dropping off on weekends.  To Selectman Jenness’ point, he asserted that just because it is a Town Beach doesn’t mean that someone parking three miles away cannot come and walk to the beach bringing a cooler full of soft drinks, a surfboard and other items.  It is not a private beach.

            Selectman Jenness agreed, but noted that it is in a slightly different category. 

            With regard to the “alleged peeing incident,” Mr. Hillman noted that anyone could be in a black wetsuit and it could not be determined whether it was a Summer Sessions coach. 

            Selectman Mills suggested that a Porta Potty be placed on a trailer and shuttled back and forth to the beach using a bicycle.

 

(94:57 elapsed)

            Selectman Musselman moved to approve the Summer Sessions permit on the same terms as the prior year.  Selectman Mills seconded.  All were in favor.

 

Town Hall Committee (95:19 elapsed)

 

            Selectman Jenness stated that letters had gone out to four or five commissions.  Only the Heritage Commission had met, so the matter will be tabled for two weeks.  Editor’s note:  The letter invited a number of commissions, boards and committees to seek volunteers to the Town Hall Committee from among their members. 

 

Resident and non-resident Recycling Facility Stickers (96:17 elapsed)

 

            Mr. Magnant stated that he and Dennis McCarthy need to work out the costs and the matter needs further discussion with the Town Attorney to determine the mechanism by which the Board could charge fees.  This will likely require another couple of weeks.

 

Route 1A shrubbery removal (96:54 elapsed) 

 

            Chief Walsh held up a letter and used it to prompt Mr. Magnant.  Mr. Magnant then reminded the Board that they had sent a letter to the State asking them to trim some of the brush that was obstructing the right-of-way.  The Chief met with the State on a couple of issues.  They are willing to do this, he said, but will take all of it out.  Selectman Mills stated that it is Rosa Rugosa.  Chief Walsh stated that, after talking with the foreman, he anticipates that when people call to complain they will be told that the Town wanted the bushes taken out.   

            There was discussion about sight lines and the need to keep trimming the plants.  Selectman Musselman said that, if it is in the right of way and is a safety issue the State has the right and responsibility to take them out.  Mr. Magnant said “absolutely.”

 

Aquarion Water project on Cable Rd. (99:05 elapsed)

 

            Dennis McCarthy stated that Aquarion would be replacing a main near Selectman Jenness’ house.  A special technique will be used so that only about five pits along the side of the road will be needed.  Selectman Jenness stated that she had received a letter, however the technique was not referred to.  The work is to be done by June 30, Mr. McCarthy said. 

 

Non-public session on personnel (102:44 elapsed)

 

Initially a motion to adjourn was asked for, but Selectman Mills asked for a non-public session on personnel.