Category Archives: Select Board matters

ANNOUNCEMENTS
Board of Selectmen
Agenda January 28, 2014

The Medfield Board of Selectmen needs to meet in Executive Session (closed session) at close of meeting for the purpose of discussing threaten litigation, RGL LLC vs. Town of Medfield and Trustees of Red Gate Farm

We want to take a moment of appreciation for our brave servicemen and women serving in Afghanistan

This meeting is being recorded

6:00 PM William Donovan, Town employee

Discuss snow plowing policy for Wastewater Treatment Plant employees

6:15 PM Park and Recreation
Discuss FY2015 budget

6:30 PM Town Counsel
Discussion of Town Bylaw update

7:00PM Permanent Building Committee, Chief Kingsbury, Chief Meaney

Public presentation of proposed Public Safety Building

8:00PM Medfield Energy Committee
Discuss of green communities certification and energy grant manager application

8:30PM Discussion of sidewalk in front of Brothers Marketplace

ACTION
Decision as to which articles to include in Warrant

Discuss wishes to accept donation of land on Pine Street

An invitation was received from Boy Scout Troop 89 to attend the Eagle Scout Court of Honor for Eric Lundstrom, Jake Lester and Benjamin Wilson on Saturday February 8,2014 at the United Church of Christ

Vote to approve meeting minutes of December 3, 2013 and January 7,2014

LICENSES & PERMITS
Church of the Advent respectfully requests a one-day wine and malt permit for annual dinner event on Saturday March 1, 2014

MEDFIELD STATE HOSPITAL STATUS UPDATE

SELECTMEN REPORT

INFORMATIONAL
Resident’s letter of appreciation regarding the Public Visioning Workshop on January 11
Estimated cherry sheet
From Norfolk County Retirement System, Town’s FY15  Appropriation
Packet of information from Conservation Commission

==========================

January 22,2014

R. EDWARD BEARD
MARGARET D. BEARD
3A SUMMER STREET
MEDFIELD, MA 02052
(508) 359-4698

Board of Selectmen
TownHouse
459 Main Street
Medfield, MA 02052

Re.: Land gift

Gentlemen,

If you’ll draw up the paperwork, my wife Meg and I would like to donate to the Town of Medfield a small piece of land, located on Pine Street, being shown as Parcel lion Map No. 66 of the Medfield Assessors. A photocopy of the land as it appears on the Map is enclosed herewith, highlighted in yellow. The parcel consists of approximately 6,100 square feet ofland, and is located between the pavement of Pine Street and the Norfolk County layout.

Please let me know if, in behalf of the Town, you’re interested in accepting the gift.

Thank you for your courtesies.
Respectively

R. Edward Beard
Enc!.
=================================
18 Ledgetree
Medfield, MA 02052
1/13/14

Selectmen
459 Main St.
Medfield, MA 02052

Dear Selectmen:

I attended the Hospital Visioning Workshop on January 11th, and came away impressed with the professionalism of the presentations and the knowledge of all of the people involved who have given so much of their time.

Sometimes, communities have to make a decision without having adequate information; not in this instance. And all of my questions were answered during the discussions before I even had to ask them.
The event was well organized and I thank all of the citizens who did all of the work to reach this point.

Also, being able to participate that day was much appreciated by me.

Sincerely,
Justin Brady

=============================
Norfolk County Retirement System
December 16,2013
To: Board of Selectmen
Town of Medfield
From: Norfolk County Retirement System
Subj: Town of Medfield Fiscal Year 2015 Appropriation

The Norfolk County Retirement System has received several inquiries relative to the member unit appropriation amounts for Fiscal Year 2015. We have received the appropriation figures. The units have two payment options,

1) Paying the appropriation in two equal payments, one due on July 1, 2014 and the second due on January 1, 2015,

2) Paying the appropriation in a single payment on July 1, 2014 at a reduced rate, approximately 2% less than option 1.

The amounts of each are set forth below. Please note that your  Fiscal Year 2015 appropriation includes prior Early Retirement Incentives (ERIs), where applicable.

Option 1:  $1,720,395.00 payable in two equal payments of
$860,197.50, the first on July 1, 2014 and the second on
January 1, 2015.

Option 2:  $ 1,686,967.00 due in full on July 1, 2014.

The actual appropriation bills will be sent out at a later date.

We hope the above information is helpful. If you have any questions, please contact
Patrick LePage at 781-821-0664. Thank you.

Meeting minutes
January 7, 2014
Chenery Meeting Room
draft

PRESENT: Selectmen Fisher, Peterson, DeSorgher; Town Administrator Sullivan; Administrative Assistant Clarke

The meeting convened at 7:00 PM.

Chairman Fisher announced this meeting is being recorded. He asked for a moment of appreciation for our brave servicemen and women serving in Afghanistan.  There was a moment of silence in honor of the Serviceman from Abington who was recently killed in action.

REVIEW TOWN MEETING ARTICLES
Mr. Sullivan highlighted several of the articles beginning with articles 11, 13 and 14 saying that each refers to veterans’ benefits requested by Veterans’ Agent Ron Griffin; article 19 involves the senior tax work-off program. Beginning this year the residents involved in the program will be paid through the town’s payroll system to conform to IRS regulations, which will require withholdings. Mr. Peterson is of the opinion that the work off amount should be raised from $500 to $1,000 and it would help those seniors make up for the deductions they will now face.  However, it was noted that the Assessors feel the overlay cannot handle this high of an increase. Article 20 asks for an amendment to the Town’s bylaws to regulate public consumption of marijuana. The Selectmen would like to have conversation with Chief Meaney and the Board of Health about this subject. Article 25 deals with the proposed public safety building; article 26 asks for funds to  reconstruct the sidewalk on Main and South Streets and transfer any monies designated to preserve the Lord’s sign for this purpose. Additionally conversation is needed for several more articles, i.e. Energy Committee proposes the Town adopt the stretch code for building construction; funds for hiring a consultant regarding the state hospital site; construction of a pocket park between Starbucks and Zebra’s; Community Preservation Act proposal and a connecting path from Wild Holly Lane to the Wheelock School.  Discussions will continue.

COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
VOTED unanimously to appoint Maryalice Whalen to the Capital Budget Committee and as recommended by Assistant Town Administrator Trierweiler

VOTED unanimously to appoint Claire Shaw to the Medfield Cultural Council and as recommended by Chairman Jean Mineo

VOTED unanimously to appoint Michelle Doucette to the Committee to Study Memorials and as recommended by the Committee

SELECTMEN’S CALENDAR
The Board was advised that Park & Recreation Commission will attend the January 21 meeting to discuss their fy15 budget, Council on Aging will come to the February 4 meeting to discuss their budget and also the Insurance Advisory Committee will attend for discussion regarding OPEB actuarial study and status of Norfolk County Retirement system.

SIDEWALK CONSTRUCTION
Selectman DeSorgher has been in discussion with Roche Bros regarding a new design for the sidewalk running from South Street along Main towards the library. The proposal is for a new sidewalk with a two foot strip of bricks closer to the curb, similar to the sidewalk on Pound Street; one-third of the sidewalk is Roche Bros. and two-thirds is the Town’s. Roche Bros. has agreed to contribute to the cost of construction. Mr. DeSorgher requests the support of the Board for this jOint venture. On a motion made and seconded it was

VOTED unanimously to support a joint venture with Roche Bros. to construct a new sidewalk from the parking lot on South Street continuing onto Main Street ending at the jewelry store near the public library and as recommended by the. Aesthetics Committee

LICENSES & PERMITS
VOTED unanimously to grant Council on Aging a one-day wine and malt beverage permit for three events: January 15 supper club; February 15 valentine’s Dance and March 15 Irish Dinner

VOTED unanimously to grant St Edward Parish a one-day alcohol license for annual Parish Dance to be held Saturday January 25, 2014 7-11 PM

VOTED unanimously to grant permission to the Medfield Coalition for Public Education to Post signs January 26 to February 15 promoting their spring fundraiser

MEDFIELD STATE HOSPITAL STATUS UPDATE
This Saturday January 11 the State Hospital Advisory Committee will hold a Public Visioning Workshop at the CENTER to gather input for potential reuse of the property. The Committee is looking forward to good attendance.

SELECTMEN REPORT
Mr. Peterson commended Nicholas Sauro for attaining the rank of Eagle Scout saying that the ceremony was done differently, however as always well done. He announced that the Angel Run held in December was very successful with both attendance and financially and the proceeds will be donated to help needy families in Medfield. Also the Foundation requests nominations for Volunteer of the Year awards are submitted by January 31,2014.  Mr. Peterson attended last night’s Planning Board meeting learning about the proposed Clark Tavern on Main Street. He favors the idea of the old building being reused; however, he feels a commercial building should not be in a residential neighborhood. He is glad the Selectmen do not have to make a choice because it is a complicated issue, a Hobson’s choice. He went on to say “I would not want to live next door to a commercial building.”

Mr. DeSorgher questioned the status of Medfield being designated a Tree City, however, Ms. Trierweiler was not present to comment. He is concerned that library employees need to park their vehicles in the Janes Avenue lot and it is not well lighted. Mr. Sullivan responded that recently the Fire Department did change some light bulbs so it should be ok now. Mr. DeSorgher commented that a section of the stone wall on South Street opposite Grist Mill Road was damaged after a tree fell on the wall; isn’t sure if the wall is town property or private but he feels it has been that way for a long time and should be repaired. He had a successful meeting with Columbia Gas Company representatives regarding the condition of Adams Street after the gas company did work and he also let them know that there are four holes, actually gas valve holes that need to be filled in. The reps told him that Adams Street will be first on the list to repair/repave in the spring and the valve holes will be hot tarred immediately. He attended the weekly meeting at the Town Garage site where progress is slowly being made mostly due to weather conditions. He agrees that Nicholas Sauro’s Eagle Court of Honor was impressive. Mr. DeSorgher extended condolences to the families of Ed Doherty and Anita Daniels. He said that Ed was a great person very active in his community with sports programs, Medfield cable TV and taking part in celebrating the Town’s anniversary. Anita a long time resident was very involved through the years with kids sport programs. They will be greatly missed. The next mini Town Hall meeting will be held at the home of John and Mary Harney on Maplewood Road January 16. He hopes that a schedule will be made for him to attend surrounding town’s selectmen’s meetings. Also noted that it is difficult for vehicles to maneuver on Upham Road that is very narrow and now the snow banks add to the difficulty. He would like to have an update on the proposal to have employees at Thomas Upham House park at the Dwight Derby House. Mr. DeSorgher went to the Planning Board meeting and it is a difficult decision and the neighbors have  legitimate concerns. He hopes that the traffic study will address some of those issues. He mentioned that at the meeting Michael Taylor, Historic District Commissioner talked about historic preservation of the old building saying that the tavern and the Peak House will be made a historic district. The proponents plan a bed and breakfast that will greatly benefit Medfield. The Planning Board will continue the hearing on February 3 and this Thursday the  project will be presented to the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Mr. DeSorgher commented that it is unfortunate that the owner of the former Lord’s building Mr. Salvatore would not plow the rear parking lot after the storm; the Town did and they did a great job.

Mr. Fisher applauded the highway employees who really were creative and really good to remove the snow from the downtown. He wished Ann Thompson happy birthday celebrating her 80th
• He extended a heartfelt thank you to highway employee Malcolm Gibson who helped Andy Thompson after he fell on the snowy sidewalk on his early morning walk. Mr. Fisher enjoyed the Eagle Scout ceremony saying that it was a nice presentation and had wonderful displays. He said that he will be interviewed by Jack Peterson next week discussing town happenings. This Saturday is a big day for the Town to hear the public’s ideas for the reuse of the hospital property. He urges residents to have their thoughts heard as much effort went into planning the event. It will be well worth attending.

ADJOURNMENT
On a motion made by Selectman Peterson, seconded by Selectman DeSorgher the vote was unanimous to adjourn the meeting at 8:50 PM.

Meeting Minutes
December 3, 2013 draft

PRESENT: Selectmen Fisher, Peterson, DeSorgher; Town Administrator Sullivan; Assistant Town Administrator Trierweiler; Town Counsel Cerel; Administrative Assistant Clarke

The meeting convened at 7:00PM in the Chenery Meeting Room
Chairman Fisher announced the meeting is being recorded. He asked for a moment of appreciation for our brave servicemen and women serving in Afghanistan.

7:00 PM Public Hearing and Vote
Town Counsel Cerel explained that this pUblic hearing has been advertised. It is a statutory process for the Selectmen to exercise General Law Chapter 61, Section 8 First Refusal Option regarding Land of Robin Kenny, et als.; Trustees of Red Gate Farm Realty Trust containing approximately 31 acres located on Foundry and Philip Street for the purchase price of $1,385,000. Resident John Harney was recognized and he asked why this hearing. It seems to him that something is not right that this is now happening after the Town’s overwhelming vote at the polls. Counsel Cerel explained that this process is taking place so that the Town will not be challenged going forward with the purchase; closing in 90 days. The hearing closed at 7:08PM.

VOTE: Selectman Peterson made a motion to adopt the order as presented and sign the purchase and sale agreement, seconded by Selectman DeSorgher. Vote was unanimous

Mr. Peterson remarked that Mr. Harney has raised a few issues and I want to stress that the Board of Selectmen has been forthright with all the details surrounding the purchase of Red Gate Farm.

MEDFIELD CULTURAL COUNCIL
Member Susan Parker said that she is here this evening to discuss a proposal for the town to support the council’s request to match the state allocation of $4,250 for FY 2015. She explained that several cultural events took place due to the state grant; however, because we did not have funding ten other events did not take place. Mr. Sullivan remarked that the matching amount of $4,250 will be placed in the Selectmen’s budget and must be approved by Annual Town Meeting. The Selectmen agree that the Cultural Council has done a tremendous service to the Town with the events that have taken place; Selectmen support the matching fund proposal.

VOTE: On a motion made by Selectmen Peterson, seconded by Selectman DeSorgher, to recommend a line item in the FY2015 budget of $4,250 designated to the Medfield Cultural Council and to be voted at annual Town Meeting. Vote was unanimous.

PRSENTATION FOR PROPOSED CLARK TAVERN, EAST MAIN STREET
Attorney Ted Cannon introduced his clients residents John and Michelle Linnert who will give an overview oftheir proposed project. It is understood that the Selectmen have no jurisdiction
concerning the project.  Michelle Linnert said that they plan to renovate the house located at 353-355 Main Street and return it to its former use as a tavern adding a five room bed and breakfast and a function room for receptions, parties, meetings with seating capacity for 90 maximum. We will do everything we can to keep it as authentic as possible. Parking will meet the Town’s requirement;  here will be an exit and entrance on the west side of the property; landscaping is minimal. A traffic study was conducted which concluded that the proposed gravel driveway on the east side (close to the Peak House) should be eliminated for safety reasons. When the subject of a sidewalk was introduced, Mr. Linnert responded that they are willing to extend the sidewalk at our expense.

Mr. Peterson said that the Selectmen have received copies of letters from the direct neighbors to the property which raises many questions and concerns and was surprised at their reactions to the project.

Selectman DeSorgher remarked that he hopes the Linnerts and the abutters have an opportunity to talk and work out the legitimate concerns of the neighbors as this project is a win-win situation for the Town. As this house has been empty for several years it may face demolition by neglect; it would be very sad to lose this historic property.

MEDFIELD STATE HOSPITAL
Negotiating Committee members Steve Nolan and Ken Richard spoke about the proposal to have the town purchase 132 acres of hospital land. The first price from the state was 4.4 million; Medfield’s counter offer was 1.9 million. In their November 7 letter, DCAMM’s offer is $3.1 million that includes a stipulation that the conveyance ofthe property to the town is no later than December 2014. The Negotiating Committee recommends the town accept this offer as it is the best that will come along.

Mr. Peterson agrees as he feels the Town will control the use of the property should we buy it.

Mr. DeSorgher notes that a new administration is on the horizon that could be to our detriment. The offer to accept or not will be in the hands of a Town Meeting vote.

It was mentioned that at this purchase price the Town would be paying the state $30,000 an acre while a building acre in Medfield costs $350,000. An on-line survey is available for townspeople to have input as to what they would like to see on the property. Also, a Public session will take place on January 11 at the CENTER to gather and discuss any and all ideas about what will happen to it. The Negotiating Committee recommends that the Selectmen on behalf of the Town continue to move forward with the process and sign the term sheet prepared by DCAMM. It does not mean in any way that the Town is buying the property; it is just the first step.

VOTE: On a motion made by Selectman Peterson, seconded by Selectman Desorgher it was voted unanimously to adopt the term sheet as written.

ACTION ITEMS
On a motion made and seconded, it was VOTED unanimously to appoint Ron Gustavson to the Medfield Cultural Council and as recommended by Cultural Council Chair, Jean Mineo

The Selectmen are invited to attend Eagle Scout Court of Honor for Nicholas Sauro on Saturday January 4, 2014 and for Peter Whelan on Saturday January 18, 2014

Mr. Peterson noted that the November S, 2013 meeting minutes listed Ron Griffin as resigning from the Committee to Study Memorials when in fact it is Rob Gregg.
On a motion made and seconded it was VOTED unanimously to accept the meeting minutes of October 22 and November 5,2013 with revisions

LICENSES & PERMITS
On a motion made and seconded, it was VOTED unanimously to approve all alcoholic licenses for the calendar year 2014 to: Basil, Jing’s Garden II, Kingsbury Club Medfield, Noon Hill Grill, Takara, Zebra’s; a club license to American L:egion Beckwith Post #110-; all alcohol package store license to Bullard’s Market, Larkin’s Liquors and Palumbo Liquors; wine and malt license to Medfield Wine Shoppe and Medfield Commons

On.a motion made and seconded it was VOTED unanimously to grant permission to High School student Kathleen Lanzilla to post signs in designated location promoting a food drive to benefit the Medfield Food Cupboard

Mr. DeSorgher interjected that he would like to have the Building Inspector be on the lookout for signs that are non compliant

On a motion made and seconded, it was VOTED unanimously to grant a one-day wine and malt beverage permit to the Council on Aging for the December 18, 2013 Supper Club

PENDING
Nominations have been submitted for appointments to the Pocket Park Steering Committee.

VOTE: On a motion made by Selectman Peterson to appoint Jean Mineo, Matt McCormack, Tim Larkin, Monique Allen, Minta Hissong, Sarah Raposa and Jim Snyder to the Pocket Park Steering Committee, seconded by Selectman DeSorgher, it was voted unanimously

SELECTMEN REPORT
Mr. Peterson announced that the Angel Run will take place this Sunday December 8 at 2 PM. The Run will start and end at the Wheelock School. Also, the Medfield Foundation is looking for Volunteer ofthe Year nominations. Please submit by January 31,2014. He went on to say that it was suggested to him that a sidewalk/pathway from Wild Holly road to the Wheelock School be constructed. Mr. Sullivan replied that it there may be issues with involves conservation land (wetlands) and private property.

Mr. Desorgher requests that Ken should review a DEP sign in the area of Elm Street and Knollwood Road to see if it can be removed. Also have Ken check potholes that should be tarred and filled in at: Philip Street and Elm Street; Harding Street and Longmeadow Road;  also in front of 17 Knollwood Road. Mr. DeSorgher brought up the subject of styrofoam containers and plastic bags noting that Brookline recently approved a ban; Great Barrington has banned plastic bags effective this year; Manchester by the Sea their ban goes into effect in July and Nantucket has enforced a ban since 1990. Perhaps the Selectmen should appoint a committee to research the subject of banning plastic bags and Styrofoam containers in Medfield to present to Town residents. He attended the Planning Board meeting listening to the Roche bros. project.
Selectman DeSorgher offered condolences to the family of Bob McCarthy who recently passed away. Many years ago Bob was a Medfield Policeman, always had a smile and just a great individual.

Mr. Fisher reminded the audience that this Thursday December 5 is First Thursday and invited all to go to the Dwight Derby House and Zullo Gallery, always a pleasant evening. Friday evening the Christmas Tree Lighting will take place at Baxter Park along with caroling. Saturday at 1PM the Christmas Parade will begin. He urges residents and neighbors to come and enjoy.  The Medfield Lions Club is selling Christmas trees, a good selection and good quality  trees that come from Maine.

INFORMATIONAL
Mr. Sullivan highlighted a letter from Nstar wherein they write that they will not reimburse municipalities for police details used during emergency events.

Meeting adjourned at 9:00pm.

Tuesday January 21, 2014 @ 7:00 PM

AGENDA (SUBJECT TO CHANGE)

7:00 PM William Donovan, Town employee Discuss snow plowing policy for Wastewater Treatment Plant employees

7: 15 PM Park and Recreation
Discuss FY2015 budget

ACTION
An invitation was received from Boy Scout Troop 89 to attend the Eagle Scout Court of Honor for Eric Lundstrom, Jake Lester and Benjamin Wilson on Saturday February 8, 2014 at the United Church of Christ

LICENSES & PERMITS
Church of the Advent respectfully requests a one-day wine and malt permit for annual dinner event on Saturday March 1,2014

Board of Selectmen
Agenda January 7,2014

6:00 PM Executive Session to discuss discipline or dismissal of employee

ACTION
Potential list of Articles for Annual Town Meeting (warrant doses Feb. 4, 2014)

Vote to appoint Capital Budget Committee member

FY2015 budget received from School Department·

Update Selectmen’s calendar

Medfield Cultural Council respectfully requests the Selectmen vote to appoint Claire Shaw to their Committee

Committee to Study Memorials respectfully requests the Selectmen vote to appoint Michelle Doucette to their Committee

Selectmen DeSorgher wishes to discuss the sidewalk construction pertaining to Brothers Marketplace

LICENSES & PERMITS

Council on Aging requests a one day wine and malt beverage permit for three events:·
Wednesday January 15, 2014 Supper Club; Saturday February 15, 2014 annual Valentine’s Dance and Saturday March 15,2014 Irish Dinner

St Edward Parish requests a one day alcohol license for annual Parish Dance to be held on January 25, 2014 7-11PM

Medfield Coalition for Public Education requests permission to post signs at the approved locations January 26 to February 15 to advertise their spring fundraiser

MEDFIELD STATE HOSPITAL STATUS UPDATE
Medfield State Hospital Public Visioning Session to take place this Saturday January 11, 2014 at the CENTER, 10 AM to 3PM

SELECTMEN REPORT

INFORMATIONAL
Copy of Planning Board Notice of Decision: site plan approval for Roche Brothers

Copy of ZBA legal notice

Board of Selectmen
Agenda December 19, 2013

Announcements: This meeting is being recorded. We want to take a moment of appreciation for our brave servicemen and women serving in Afghanistan

Transfer Station Holiday Hours:
Closed: Wednesday December 25,2013
Open: Thursday December 26; Friday December 27 and Saturday December 28,2013
Closed: Wednesday January 1, 2014
Open: Thursday January 2; Friday January 3 and Saturday January 4,2014

ACTION
Vote to sign the January 7,2014 Warrant for Special State Election. Only Precincts 3 & 4 to vote

Vote to authorize Town Administrator Sullivan to sign MilA two-year Guarantee Proposal for ‘Property and liability and Workers’ Compensation Programs

Vote to sign Agreement with Environmental Partners Group, Inc. for replacement of public water supply storage tank at former state hospital site

The Kingsbury Pond Committee requests the Selectmen vote to appoint Michael Thompson, Paul Trumbour and Sharon Judge to their committee

Town to plow former Lord’s parking lot as owner refuses to plow

Vote to approve November 19 and 26 meeting minutes

LICENSES & PERMITS
New ‘N Towne of Medfield requests a one-day wine and malt beverage permit for their January 6, 2014 event to be held at the CENTER

MEDFIELD STATE HOSPITAL STATUS UPDATE
Vote to sign Memorandum of Agreement between DCAMM and Massachusetts Historical Commission regarding Building #31: Farm Dormitory at the Medfield State Hospital

SELECTMEN REPORT

INFORMATIONAL

From the Agi School, tuition invoice for the 2013-14 school year, five students @ $2000 per

Information packet from Conservation Commission

Notice from Nstar that they corrected a street light problem at pole 12/56, near Town Hall

The Board of Selectmen meeting scheduled for tonight has been postponed to 7 PM on Thursday this week.