|
Town of Bristol Budget Committee Minutes January 19, 2009
APPROVED ON: 01/26/09 as amended
ATTENDED: Andrew Hemingway (Chairman), Dan Bouchard (Vice Chairman), Ron Preble , Richard Walenda, David Carr, Jon Thouin, Paul Simard, Ashley Dolloff, Tom Winn, Andrew Williamson, Brenda Fritz, Dorcas Gordon, Diane Marden (Secretary), and Bruce Van Derven (Selectmen).
ABSENT: None
OTHERS PRESENT: Paul Weston (Town Manager), Jennifer Coreia (Consultant), Joe Denning (Selectmen), various Department Heads, and members of the public.
The Chairman, Andrew Hemingway called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m., at the Bristol Town Hall, and the meeting was video taped for Bristol Public Access.
Minutes of January 5, 2009
Bruce Van Derven made the motion to accept the minutes of January 5, 2009. Jon Thouin seconded the motion. MOTION CARRIED 11/0-1 abstention
Budget Discussions
Chairman Hemingway explained the process of deliberations stating the committee had voted and approved a budget template last week to work from. Mr. Hemingway continued to say the numbers from this template have been recalculated based on some small addition errors he had made. Mr. Hemingway stated the numbers within the template are based on conversations with the Town Manager, Budget Committee members, and Department Heads giving the committee a place to start with their deliberations.
Chairman Hemingway stated he at this time would like to entertain a motion to accept the bottom line of $5,444,734 on the template for the purpose of discussion. During this discussion we will then discuss the budget’s of each department, making motions accordingly to what ever changes we make throughout the budget at that time.
Budget Template Changes
Dan Bouchard made the motion to accept the bottom line of the Budget Template of $5,444,734. Andrew Williamsom seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway started the discussion with explaining the changes within the template.
Executive Office
01-4130-120 EX Budget Committee Secretary $ 1,600 01-4130-133 EX Moderator $ 225 01-4130-625 EX Postage $ 3,500 Total Executive Office $197,682
Bruce Van Derven asked Chairman Hemingway to explain why the postage in the account above was decreased. Mr. Hemingway explained this year the Town Reports will not be mailed out to every taxpayer instead they will be available at Town Office, and he does believe the Town Report will also be in digital format to save some costs.
Elections/Registrations/Vital Statistics
01-4140-191 Ballot Clerks $ 300 01-4140-210 Town Clerk Health Insurance $14, 233 01-4140-550 Town Clerks Office Advertising/Printing $ 1,200 Total Elections/Registrations/Vital Statistics $ 74,703
Chairman Hemingway stated he had discussed the Ballot Clerks line item with the Department Head and this figure was acceptable to her.
Financial Administration
01-4150-210 FA Health Insurance (Acc. & Secretary) $ 13,233 01-4150-390 TX Recording Fees $ 400 01-4150-391 Tax Sale/Lien Expenses $ 1,000 01-4150-625 TX Postage $ 3,200 Total Financial Administration $141,846
Bruce Van Derven asked Chairman Hemingway if line item 625 above was acceptable to the Department Head? Mr. Hemingway stated it was acceptable to the department head and in fact he needed to increase it from his original calculation.
Property Reappraisal
01-4153-210 Health Insurance (Assessing & Land Use) $ 12,663 01-4153-625 Land Use Postage $ 200 Total Property Reappraisal $190,557 Budget Template Changes Continued
Legal
No changes to accounts 01-4155-198 through 275.
Personnel Administration
01-4155-198 Gen. Govt.. Accrued Benefits Fund $ 1 01-4191-260 Workers Comp $59,910 Total Personnel Administration $64,700
John Thouin asked why there are two accounts with the same number 198? Chairman Hemingway stated he did not know the reasoning behind this but it was brought up at the last meeting as well. David Carr stated he believes one is an account where money comes in, and the other is an expense account where it goes out. Town Manager, Weston stated he would look into the reasoning behind these duplicate line items.
Planning Board
No changes to accounts 01-4191-120 through 812.
Zoning Board
No changes to accounts 01-4192-120 through 812.
Tax Map
No changes to account 01-4193-390.
General Government Buildings
01-4194-111 GGB Maintenance Custodian $ 1 01-4194-432 GGB Safety Committee Repairs $ 1 01-4194-490 GGB Town Clock $ 400 01-4194-640 GGB Custodial Service $ 8,000 01-4194-815 Public Communications $29,000 Total General Government Buildings $64,378
Bruce Van Derven asked for an explanation of line items 111 and 640 above? Chairman Hemingway stated he felt there was an overlap in services explaining he had talked with the hired Custodial Service who stated they would be interested in doing more light maintenance. Ashley Doloff asked what the Maintenance Custodian does? Town Manager, Weston stated he maintains the buildings, mows lawns at the cemeteries, shovel’s snow, and other related maintenance tasks. Budget Template Changes Continued
Cemeteries
01-4195-650 Town Cemeteries Appropriation $ 500 01-4195-651 Homeland Cemetery $10,000 Total Cemeteries $10,500
Insurance
No changes to accounts 01-4196-480 and 483.
Regional Associations
01-4197-830 Chamber of Commerce $ 50 01-4197-831 Lakes Region Planning $ 1 01-4197-836 Pawquaney Garden Club $ 675 01-4197-837 Newfound Lakes Region Association $ 700 Total Regional Associations $1,426
Paul Simard asked if the Town is legally bound by a contract with Newfound Lakes Region Association? Chairman Hemingway stated they would need to see some sort of an agreement in writing.
Other General Government
01-4199-890 Contingency/Infrasstructure/Grant Funds $40,000 Total Other General Government $40,000 Total General Government $868,085
Bruce Van Derven asked if the $45,000 in line items 01-4194-812 & 815 is funded by revenues not taxes is reduced to $29,000 which means the difference goes into the general fund correct? Chairman Hemingway stated that is correct.
Police Department
01-4210-140 PD Overtime $ 20,000 01-4210-144 Holiday Pay $ 14,668 01-4210-190 Cert. Special Police $ 12,000 01-4210-230 PD Retirement $ 55,541 01-4210-294 PD Vest Replacement $ 2,000 01-4210-340 PD Dispatch Telephone $ 8,000 01-4210-342 PD Computer Maintenance $ 11,366 01-4210-350 PD Medical Expense $ 750 01-4210-351 PD Breath Test $ 450 Budget Template Changes (Police Department) Continued
01-4210-395 Plymouth Dispatch $ 68,971 01-4210-635 PD Gas/Oil $ 20,450 01-4210-665 PD 2008 Cruiser $ 1,000 Total Police Department $804,952
Richard Walenda stated line item 635 should be less than last year as gas prices have decreased. Chairman Hemingway stated gas is lower, but is starting to increase again. Mr. Hemmingway stated the Town Manager received a rack price for fuel, and it is difficult to determine what the gas prices will be. Mr. Hemingway stated they took the mileage, and went for a mid line estimation. Andrew Williamson asked if line items 198 through 230 are changes. Town Manger, Weston stated in accrued benefits all line items throughout the budget were left with one (1) dollar as those dollars are paid to employee’s upon separation, and we feel there is enough set aside should it be needed.
Police Detail
01-4211-141 Police Detail $10,000 Total Police Detail $10,000
Jon Thouin asked if line item 141 Police Detail is a wash meaning it goes in and out of the budget? Chairman Hemingway replied that is correct. Bruce Van Derven stated it is his understanding that when Pike Industries has a needs police coverage here in town, they pay the town, and we provide the police officer.
Fire Department
01-4220-140 FD Overtime $ 30,000 01-4220-141 Holiday Pay $ 17,520 01-4220-195 FD Admin. Assistant $ 15,992 01-4220-225 FD Medicare $ 6,664 01-4220-230 FD Retirement $ 62,631 01-4220-343 FD Copier $ 800 01-4220-346 FD Cell Phone $ 1,500 01-4220-350 FD Medical Exp. $ 4,460 01-4220-390 FD Alarm $ 3,496 01-4220-391 FD Training $ 12,000 Total Fire Department $808,297
NOTE: Town Manager, Weston stated line item 01-4152-195 needs to be changed to $10,351. Chairman Hemingway stated we will change that when we go through the process of approving the budget explaining at this time make a note of it.
Budget Template Changes Continued Forestry
01-4230-190 Forestry Payroll $ 1 01-4230-292 FO Protective Clothing $300 01-4230-610 FO Materials/Supplies $ 1 01-4230-661 FO Truck $ 1 Total Forestry $880
Ron Preble commented that he thought Forestry was going to be put back into the Fire Department Budget. Crossing Guards
No changes to accounts 01-4290-120 through 225.
Emergency Management
01-4290-660 Trailer Maintenance $250 Total Emergency Management $253 Total Public Safety $1,632,883
Highway Department
01-4311-210 HD Health Insurance $ 67,325 01-4311-230 HD Retirement $ 700 01-4311-431 HD Building Maintenance $ 2,000 01-4311-631 HD Sidewalks $ 6,000 01-4311-635 HD Gas/Oil $ 34,000 01-4311-671 HD Vacuum Truck $ 5,000 01-4311-680 HD Street Signs $ 1,200 01-4311-695 Guard Rail Replacement $ 1 01-4311-830 HD Safety Equipment $ 1,000 Total Highway Department $484,842
NOTE: Bruce Van Derven stated line item 941 Engineering Study/Implementation could be decreased to $1,250 as half of the study has been completed. Chairman Hemingway asked that a note be made of this for when we go through the process of approving the budget.
Highway Projects
01-4312-391 Sidewalks/Road Reclamation (bike path) $ 1 Total Highway Projects $53,001
Budget Template Changes Continued
Streets/Bridges
01-4319-410 Street Lighting $40,000 Total Streets/Bridges $40,000
Rubbish Disposal
01-4324-362 SW C & D/Demolition $ 15,000 Total Rubbish Disposal $215,304
Fire Betterment
01-4327-413 Fire Betterment $1 Total Fire Betterment $1 Total Public Works $793,148
Health
01-4411-120 Health Officer $ 1 Total Health $151. Humane Society
01-4414-390 Animal Welfare $7,900 Total Humane Society $7,900
Chairman Hemingway stated he had taken Animal Control out of the Police Department and group the Animal Welfare into one line item.
Health Agencies
01-4415-350 NANA $18,000 Total Health Agencies $18,001
Welfare Administration
No changes to accounts 01-4441-120 through 620.
Welfare Services
01-4445-411 Welfare Rent $32,500 Total Welfare Services $44,600
Budget Template Changes Continued
Recreation
No changes to accounts 01-4520-650 and 890.
Beaches
01-4521-550 Beach Printing $ 100 01-4521-610 Beach Materials/Supplies $ 100 Total Beaches $14,494
Kelley Park
01-4522-430 KP Maint./Repairs $ 2,000 01-4522-610 KP Materials/Supplies $ 1,200 Total Kelley Park $13,240
Bruce Van Derven asked the Chairman if the projected from the reserve fund would still occur? Mr. Hemingway stated he left the line item at one (1) dollar leaving it up for discussion.
NOTE; Dorcas Gordon asked if the reserve fund could be used without an appropriation? Chairman Hemingway stated he believes they can use the reserve fund if they so choose. Town Manager, Weston stated Ms. Gordon is correct a dollar amount must be appropriated in order for the money to be utilized. Mr. Hemingway stated we should also make a note of this to change this when we go through the process of approving the budget.
Library
01-4550-342 Library Computer Support $ 2,600 01-4550-411 Lib Heating Oil $ 3,100 01-4550-670 Lib Books $ 13,000 01-4550-671 Lib Magazines $ 1,125 Total Library $103,598
Patriotic
01-4583-880 Old Home Day $ 3,000 01-4583-885 Summer Concert Series $ 3,000 Total Patriotic $17,440
Bruce Van Derven explained that there is a zero under Patriotic Purposes which means it will eliminate anything under that account unless there is one (1) dollar appropriated. Budget Template Changes Continued
Conservation Commission
No changes to accounts 01-4611-390 through 690.
Historic District Commission
No changes to accounts 01-4612-120 and 625.
Social Services
01-4652-570 Tri-Co Community Action $ 2,000 01-4652-571 Grafton County Senior Citizens Council $ 8,000 01-4652-573 Voices Against Violence $ 2,000 01-4652-575 Genesis $ 2,000 Total Social Services $14,000
Principal L/T Debt
No changes to accounts 01-4711-731 through 992.
Interest L/T Debt
No changes to accounts 01-4712-731 through 992.
Tax
No changes to accounts 01-4723-830 and 835.
Total Debt Services $312,257
Capital Projects
No changes to accounts 01-4901-720 through 774.
Capital Equipment
01-4902-760 Police Cruiser $ 33,600 01-4902-761 Highway 1-ton Truck $ 45,000 Total Capital Equipment $103,601
Bruce Van Derven asked if the Capital Equipment items were those that were included in the CIP recommendations? Chairman Hemingway explained the Capital Equipment is based on the CIP recommendations. Budget Template Changes Continued
Capital Outlay
No changes to accounts 01-4915-700 through 710.
Total Capital Expenditures $803,603
Budget Total $4,755,857
S/W Surplus Transfer
No changes to accounts 05-4324-905 and 900.
Sewer Capital Projects
No changes to accounts 05-4325-901 through 925.
Sewer Operations
05-4326-199 Sewer Wage Adjustment Certifications $ 1 05-4326-210 Sewer Health Insurance $ 24,069 05-4326-430 Sewer Maintenance Repair $ 10,000 05-4326-810 Sewer New Equipment $ 1,000 Total Sewer Operations $340,745 Total Sewer $343,745
S/W Surplus Transfer
No changes to accounts 05-4324-900.
Water Capital Projects
07-4332-908 Water Cap. Outlay (Storm Center Upgrade) $33,280 07-4332-908 Water Cap. Outlay (Design Booster Station) $49,920 Total Water Capital Projects $83,201
Water Operations
07-4331-361 Water Paving $ 100 07-4331-390 Water Lab Services $ 4,000 07-4331-395 Control Valve Service $ 700 07-4331-610 Water Materials/Supplies $ 9,000 07-4331-620 Water Office Supplies $ 300 07-4331-625 Water Postage $ 1,000 Budget Template Changes (Water Operations) Continued
07-4331-680 Water Chemicals $ 8,500 Total Water Operations $261,931 Total Water $345,132
Budget Total $5,444,734
Budget Discussion
Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion. David Carr asked of these changes made to the template what tax rate does that give us? Chairman Hemingway stated this budget would give us a ball park tax rate of $5.06. Town Manager, Weston explained that the Water and Sewer expenditures were changed, but he failed to change the offsetting revenues so they will need to be adjusted downward. Mr. Hemingway stated which brings up a good point that a lot of things go into calculating a tax rate.
Dorcas Gordon explained that in previous years the Budget Committee did not work with the Water/Sewer Budget’s because they were self supporting. Ms. Gordon wanted to know if the Budget Committee should get involved with these line items? Town Manager, Weston stated these accounts are also gross appropriations that come before town meeting.
Paul Simard stated the Burough Bridge was Article 14 last year at town meeting, and it was defeated so why is $700,000 still in the budget? Town Manager, Weston stated the Town of Hill is appropriating half of this expenditure, and it needs to go before Town Meeting once again. Mr. Weston stated we are trying to be good neighbors, the engineering study has been done on the bridge, and there is hope to receive some stimulus funds from DOT.
Bruce Van Derven commented that the engineers came in to the Board of Selectmen, and if we do not rebuild the Burough Bridge the Bailey Bridge with environmental exposure the bridge will collapse and ultimately cost us more in the long run. The cost of the Bailey Bridge will be $40,000 or we can pay $160,000 for the Burough Bridge having half the cost paid by the Town of Hill. Paul Simard stated the taxpayers have said no to the construction of the bridge so we are doing it anyway, what has been spent on the bridge so far? Chairman Hemingway stated this is an issue that will come up at Town Meeting, and there is nothing we can do about it tonight. Richard Walenda stated we need to stop being good neighbors.
Dave Carr asked when the Budget Committee will receive any Warrant Article’s that may come in? Town Manager, Weston stated should any be submitted the deadline is February 5, 2009. Bruce Van Derven commented that he does not believe any Warrant Articles will be submitted. Paul Simard asked when the Budget Committee will meet on any newly submitted Warrant Articles? Budget Discussion Continued
Chairman, Hemingway stated once advise of any possible new Warrant Articles he would call a meeting. Town Manager, Weston stated we could set a tentative meeting date tonight. Mr. Hemingway stated we could address an additional meeting date at the end of tonight’s meeting. Mr. Hemingway stated at this time he would like to hear the Town Manager’s recommendation’s.
Selectmen, Joe Denning exits the meeting at this time.(8:15 p.m.)
Town Manager Recommendation’s on Budget
Town Manager, Weston explained as the Town Manager he is very pleased to have the support of the Wage Classification study so that he will be able to hire good personnel when needed, and it is very important to the current staff. Mr. Weston stated he is also pleased that the cruiser and one ton truck will be purchased, because he strongly believes when paving is delayed or infrastructure the delay incurs additional costs later. Mr. Weston continued to explained he is also very pleased to preserve the employment of the current staff, and not eliminating any positions. Mr. Weston commented that maintaining the emergency services is also a vital part of the community.
01-4150-390 Tax Recording Fee’s
Town Manager, Weston stated that when people do not pay there taxes, tax liens must be recorded. Mr. Weston stated he is concerned this line item should be increased to his recommendations. Mr. Weston stated total collections at this time are down about 3%.
01-4194-111 Maintenance Custodian
Town Manager, Weston explained he does not feel it is wise to decrease this line item to one (1) dollar. Mr. Weston explained this person does essential things pertaining to the maintenance of our buildings. Mr. Weston continued to say that this person shovels the roofs of the buildings, mows lawns, and a variety of other essential things of Old Town Hall and this Town Hall.
01-4194-810 Public Access
Town Manager, Weston stated this a revenue neutral account, and he questions taking this line item drastically lower. Mr. Weston stated we could probably operate the station for that, but to utilize it further in terms of revenue.
Town Manager Recommendation’s on Budget Continued
01-4197-831 Lakes Region Planning Commission
Town Manager, Weston stated Lakes Region Planning Commission has been in existence for decades. Mr. Weston stated they provide professional planners for the Town of Bristol, the provide grant opportunities, and a variety of other services. Mr. Weston explained the Planning Board feels it would be a terrible loss not to have LRPC, they look at Hazard Mitigation, and all of the ten (10) year Highway State Planning goes through this committee as well. Mr. Weston stated he feels it is not wise to divorce ourselves from the LRPC.
01-4210-140 PD Overtime
Town Manager, Weston stated we run the Police Department 24/7, and when a Police Officer is out, many times the person covering needs to go into that overtime status. Mr. Weston explained this is not an easy account to control. Mr. Weston stated he does not feel $20,000 in this line item is a wise move. Chief Clark commented that even in some reduced staffing sometimes people need to come in. Chief Clark stated summertime is a concern, also we are unable to retain prisoners overnight, and therefore they need to be transported, and things of this nature.
01-4210-190 PD Certified Special Police
Town Manger, Weston asked for Chief Clark’s input on this line item. Chief Clark explained the department has four (4) part-time police officers and that one (1) out of every three (3) is a full-time officer who can do specific duties that a part-time officer can not. Mr. Clark stated these individuals are of great assistance to the department in times of special events, and other functions throughout town having a substantial cost saving when bringing them in during these things.
01-4220-140 FD Overtime
Town Manager, Weston commented that the Town of Bristol has been chronically under budgeting when it comes to the Fire Department and Police. The Fire Chief stated there department also works 24/7, and we try to cover the overtime with part-time personnel. The Fire Chief explained they are not always able to do this as they have people in training, people who are called back for fires, and a variety of other situations. Mr. Weston stated that $42,000 seems more reasonable.
01-4220-195 FD Administrative Assistant
Town Manager, Weston explained he had an error with this line item and it should be $10,351 as he had mentioned earlier. Mr. Weston explained this person works at Town Office, the Welfare Department, as well. Town Manager Recommendation’s on Budget Continued
01-4220-390 FD Alarm
Town Manager, Weston explained that the FD Alarm is a hardwired system for emergency services. Mr. Weston explained the “new” Senior Citizens Complex on Keysor Road wishes to tie into this system, and some of the cost may be recaptured in the HUD project. The Fire Chief stated the cost is about $4,500 should we not recapture any costs, and approximately 3200 feet of wire needs to be run into the system.
01-4311-631 HD Sidewalks
Town Manager, Weston explained he feels Bristol sidewalks are not in good shape, and he does not support the decrease in this line item.
01-4312-391 Sidewalks Road Reclamation
Town Manager, Weston stated this disturbs me because when these types of things are not taken care of things go rather quickly in terms of the layers, and it is not wise as it will usually cost taxpayers more in the long run.
01-4319-310 Street Lighting
Town Manager, Weston stated if this line item is decreased some of the lights will be shut off. Mr. Weston recommended doing a comprehensive survey to see which one’s may be eliminated.
01-4327-413 Fire Betterment
Town Manager, Weston explained that non-water users benefit greatly from this line item but receiving decreased insurance relative to how close the hydrant is to their homes. Mr. Weston stated he does not recommend decreasing this line item, because it would be really unfair to have the burden completely on the water users. Mr. Weston explained a water user pays for there usage, and a percentage towards fire betterment. Jennifer Coreia stated this is for a service, the service is to flush hydrants, and to maintain the hydrants.
01-4522-820 Kelley Park
Mr. Weston stated there is a Kelley Park Committee, and there has been a very successful Summer Concert Series. Mr. Weston explained some of the funds are for a small stage for performances, and some will be replacing equipment for younger children that had been removed due to safety. Ms. Dionn stated some of this equipment is used by the Elementary School Children, and they also need some matching funds so they can apply for a grant.
Town Manager Recommendation’s on Budget Continued
Dan Bouchard explained it is in appropriate to take this line item out, when it has not been taken out of the revenues. Mr. Weston stated we can not take this out as it would be illegal, because they need to have an appropriation in order to use the interest from the fund.
01-4550-670 & 670 Library Books & Magazines
Town Manager, Weston stated we have a very active Library the library cards, and everything there is going off the charts. Chairman Hemingway commented the Library is off the charts, and it is amazing the numbers. David Carr asked if they had a trust fund for books and magazines? The Librarian stated currently they have a Marah Jackman fund that pays for some of the magazine, but they currently do not have any trust fund for the books. Richard Walenda stated we keep spending we need to start cutting.
01-4902-776 Fire Equipment Upgrade
Town Manager, Weston stated he is always concerned when the Fire Department does not have good equipment. Mr. Weston explained they have taken that line item down quite a bit since they first came in, and he does not agree with that decrease.
01-4326-810 Sewer New Equipment
Town Manager, Weston asked the Water Superintendent to speak on what this line item entails. The Water Superintendent stated this line item is for gas monitor, some safety equipment, and chemical feed pumps.
01-4332-908 Water Capital Outlay (Design Storm Center Upgrade)
Town Manager, Weston stated this line item is contract and he hopes the Budget Committee will reconsider this.
01-4332-910 Water Capital Outlay (Design Booster Station) Town Manager, Weston stated this line item is contract and he hopes the Budget Committee will reconsider this.01-4332-918 Water Capital Outlay (Garage)
01-4332-918 Water Capital Outlay (Garage)
The Water Superintendent stated this is funds we had set aside in Capital Reserve to complete the Garage. Town Manager, Weston stated the garage is 90% done.
Town Manager Recommendation’s on Budget Continued
01-4331-390 Water Lab Services
The Water Superintendent stated these are items that are also under contract, and they are required to do this testing according to the cycle.
01-4331-680 Water Chemicals
The Water Superintendent stated he had spent pretty close to the $10,000 last year, and he fears there is not enough money in the line item to cover what is needed.
01-4331-610 Water Materials/Supplies
Jon Thouin asked if the Water Materials/Supplies are a problem as well. The Water Superintendent stated he thinks he is fine in that line item because last year they needed to purchase a hydrant.
Budget Deliberations
Chairman Hemingway stated at this time he would like to accept amendments to the original motion made by Dan Bouchard to accept the bottom line of the Budget Template of $5,444,734, that had been seconded by Andrew Williamsom.
Bruce Van Derven made the motion to amend to increase the bottom line an additional $43,545 adding approximately seven (7) cents to the tax rate. Jon Thouin seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion.
Bruce Van Derven explained his changes line by line as follows:
Line item 01-4194-111 Maintenance Custodian to $10,000.
Line item 01-4194-815 Public Communications he considers a revenue neutral as the franchise fee comes in to offset this, and recommends the figure of the Town Manager bringing this line item to $16,245.
Line item 01-4197-831 Lakes Region Planning Commission he would like to see it back at $2,786.
Line item 01-4210-190 Certified Special Police he bring it to $20,000 as requested.
Line item 01-4220-140 FD Overtime he would like to bring that to the $40,000.
Line item 01-4220-195 FD Administrative Assistance to decrease by $5,992
Budget Deliberations Continued
Bruce Van Derven continued to explain each line item he had changed to increase the bottom line an additional $43,545 as follows:
Line item 01-4311-941 HD Engineering Study/Implementation reducing it to $1,250.
Line item 01-4326-810 Sewer New Equipment by adding $4,000 to this line item.
Chairman Hemingway stated based on the amended motion these changes brings the bottom line of the budget to $5,488,279. Dorcas Gordon asked how we can amend additional line items. Chairman Hemingway stated should you not agree you vote against, and yes if you are in favor. MOTION CARRIED 7/6
Ashley Dolloff made the motion to accept all line items under the Executive Office line items 01-4130-110 through 810. Brenda Fritz seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion, no further discussion was made. MOTION CARRIED 11/2
Ashley Dolloff made the motion to accept all line items under the Election, Registrations, and Vital Statistics line items 01-4140-110 through 810.Brenda Fritz seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion, no further discussion was made. MOTION CARRIED 11/2
Ashley Dolloff made the motion to accept all line items under the Financial Administration line items 01-4150-110 through 810. Brenda Fritz seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion.
Jon Thouin made a motion to amend line items 01-4150-390 & 391 back to the Town Manager’s recommendation changing the bottom line in the Financial Administration accounts to $143,546. Bruce Van Derven seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion. Bruce Van Derven commented that if people over the next year are going to be struggling, then he does not feel the need to rush out to put liens on their properties. MOTION TO AMEND CARRIED 9/4
Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the original motion made by Ashley Dolloff to accept all line items 01-4150-110 through 810 under the Financial Administration. Brenda Fritz had seconded the motion. MOTION CARRIED 11/2
Ashley Dolloff made the motion to accept all line items under the Property Reappraisal account line items 01-4152-110 through 625. Bruce Van Derven seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion. Budget Deliberations Continued
Paul Simard made a motion to amend line 01-4152-190 entitled Land Use Enforcement Officer reducing the bottom line of Property Reappraisal by $27,128. Ron Preble seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion on the amendment. Mr. Simard stated years ago the Selectmen did these duties on the weekends, and he would like to see that line decreased. Dan Bouchard stated this position is a busy position stating he could not see how the ZBA could get anything done without this position. MOTION FAILED 3/10
Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the original motion made by Ashley Dolloff to accept all line items under the Property Reappraisal account line items 01-4152-110 through 625. Bruce Van Derven had seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for additional discussion. MOTION CARRIED 10/3
Jon Thouin made the motion to accept all line items under the Legal Accounts line items 01-4153-320 through 670. Brenda Fritz seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion, no discussion was made. MOTION CARRIES 12/0/1 obstention
Ashley Dolloff made the motion to accept all line items under the Personnel Administration account line items 01-4155-198 through 275. Brenda Fritz seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion. Dorcas Gordon asked if line item 198 entitled PA Accrued Benefits should be one (1) dollar? Town Manager, Weston stated that is correct it should be one (1) dollar.
Paul Simard made a motion to amend line item 270 entitled Downtown/Economic Development Program to $10,000 changing the bottom line of Personnel Administration to $74,700. Ron Preble seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion on the amendment. Bruce Van Derven stated the Grant Writer will be doing this, and rather than pay for it twice I would recommend not voting for that. Dan Bouchard asked for Mr. Simard’s comments on this. Mr. Simard stated something needs to be done in the Downtown to bring in business. Chairman Hemingway asked for additional discussion, no additional discussion was made, and he then asked for a vote. MOTION TO AMEND CARRIES 6/5/1 abstention.
Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the original motion made by Ashley Dolloff to accept all line items under the Personnel Administration account line items 01-4155-198 through 275 (bottom line amended to $74,700). Brenda Fritz had seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for additional discussion before voting. No additional discussion was made. MOTION CARRIED 9/3/1 abstention
Budget Deliberations Continued
Ashley Dolloff made the motion to accept all line items under the Planning Board item numbers 01-4191-120 through 812. Dan Bouchard seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion, no discussion was made. MOTION CARRIED 10/2/1 abstention
Ashley Dolloff made the motion to accept all line items under the Zoning Board item numbers 01-4192-120 through 812. Brenda Fritz seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion, no discussion was made. MOTION CARRIED 10/20/2 abstention
Ashley Dolloff made the motion to accept all line items under the Tax Map item numbers 01-0000-390. Bruce Van Derven seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion, no discussion was made. MOTION CARRIED 10/2/1 obstention
Ashley Dolloff made the motion to accept all line items under the General Government Buildings item numbers 01-4194-111 through 815 with the bottom line of $90,377. Bruce Van Derven seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion.
Jon Thouin made the motion to amend line item 812 by reducing the line item back to $29,000 (changing bottom line to $74,377). Paul Simard seconded the motion. Bruce Van Derven commented that last year the person was delayed because of funding. Mr. Van Derven stated he had spoken with this person today who stated that there is interest in producing additional revenue from Hebron and Alexandria who are interested in getting involved with this program. Mr. Van Derven continued to explain the City of Laconia makes almost a quarter of a million dollars of non taxable income through its online auctions. Jon Thouin stated he agrees it does have potential, but right now the Town needs the money for other purposes. Mr. Van Derven stated right now the camera we are using is borrowed, the person working this is using his own computer at home, and this has clearly brought the public out to get involved. Paul Simard stated if the person working can generate additional income why not give him a percentage of what he brings in. Chairman Hemingway asked for additional discussion, no discussion, the Chairman called for a vote on the amendment. MOTION AMENDED FAILED 5/7/1 abstention
Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the original motion made by Ashley Dolloff to accept all line items under the General Government Buildings item numbers 01-4194-111 through 815 with the bottom line of $90,377. Bruce Van Derven had seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for additional discussion on the original motion, no additional discussion was made. MOTION CARRIED 7/6
Budget Deliberations Continued
Bruce Van Derven made the motion to accept all line items under the Cemeteries item numbers 01-4195-650 & 651 with the bottom line of $10,500. Ron Preble seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion, no discussion was made. MOTION CARRIED 12/0/1 abstention
Jon Thouin made the motion to accept all line items under the Insurance item numbers 01-4196-480 & 483 with the bottom line of $46,200. Brenda Fritz seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion. Jon Thouin asked if this bottom line included the Police Department? Town Manager, Weston stated it does include the Police Department. No discussion was made regarding Insurance. MOTION CARRIED 11/1/1 abstention
Dorcas Gordon made the motion to accept all line items under the Regional Associations item numbers 01-4197-830 through 837. Brenda Fritz seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion.
Bruce Van Derven made the motion to amend line item 01-4197-830 entitled Chamber of Commerce to $250 as requested by the Town Manager. Brenda Fritz seconded the motion changing the bottom line of Regional Association to $4,411. Chairman Hemingway asked for additional discussion, no discussion was made. The Chairman asked for a vote. MOTION TO AMEND CARRIED 10/3
Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the original motion made by Dorcas Gordon to accept all line items under the Regional Associations item numbers 01-4197-830 through 837 with the amended bottom line of $4,411. Brenda Fritz had seconded the motion. MOTION CARRIED 11/2
Ashley Dolloff made the motion to accept all line items under the Other General Government line item number 01-4199-890 in the amount of $40,000. Brenda Fritz seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion.
Bruce Van Derven made the motion to amend line item 01-4199-890 in the amount of $35,000. Ashley Dolloff seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion. Mr. Van Derven stated we always have a contingency line and we have never touched it, and he proposes to decrease the line item to offset other expenditures. Paul Simard asked if he would consider amending his amendment down to $20,000. Bruce Van Derven stated he would not change the amendment primarily because it is also an infrastructure fund for the downtown, and it also a grant fund to get matching grants. MOTION TO AMEND CARRIES 10/2
Budget Deliberations Continued
Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the original motion made by Ashley Dolloff to accept all line items under the Other General Government line item number 01-4199-890 amending the amount to $35,000. Brenda Fritz had seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for further discussion, no further discussion was made, and he called for a vote. MOTION CARRIES 12/1
Bruce Van Derven made the motion to accept all line items under Police Department line item number 01-4210-110 through 893 in the amount of $813,564. Dan Bouchard seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion.
Town Manager, Weston asked if the Police Chief would speak about line item 01-4210-390 the Prosecutor line. Police Chief Clark stated the prosecutor is dealing with 437 cases in District Court for Bristol translating into 1 to 6 hours per case, and if you take a quick translation of that at $125 to $250 per hour the going rate for attorney’s these days it equals about $81,000. Chief Clark stated he is not asking for much in this line item in comparison. Bruce Van Derven asked if the Prosecutor was also working on other cases while at the District Court? Chief Clark stated this is why he has broken the figure down in number of occurrences or cases. Chairman Hemingway asked if anyone had a motion to amend the original motion at this time.
Andrew Williamson made a motion to amend line item 01-4210-140 entitled PD Overtime to $35,000. Brenda Fritz seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion on the amendment. Paul Simard stated he feels the line item is adequate when using the Certified Special Police line item. Bruce Van Derven stated when he amended the Certified Special Police line item part of his thoughts were to use the line item accordingly. Police Chief Clarks stated the Certified Special Police are not always available. MOTION TO AMEND FAILS 3/10
Chairman Hemingway asked Budget Committee members if there was any additional discussion prior to voting on the original motion.
Paul Simard made the motion to amend the Police Department Budget to $620,180. Richard Walenda seconded the motion. Thomas Winn asked what that included? Mr. Simard stated he has a quick breakdown showing NH Towns, their population, the corresponding tax rate, and valuation for the Police and Fire Departments. (attached) Mr. Simard stated the town of Bristol is spending more than any other community west of Hampton Beach, and he feels it is wrong.
Dan Bouchard stated Mr. Simard mentioned many communities other than North Hampton none of them included any recreational areas comparable to Bristol.
Budget Deliberations Continued Dan Bouchard continued to say if you look at the Town of Allenstown who’s claim to fame is Bear Brook State Park who employee 10 Police Officers and 25 Firemen. Mr. Bouchard stated it is okay to make comparison, but he could also make comparison’s all day in the other direction. MOTION TO AMEND FAILS 2/11
Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote at this time on the original motion made by Bruce Van Derven to accept all line items under Police Department line item number 01-4210-110 through 893 in the amount of $813,564. This motion had been seconded by Dan Bouchard. MOTION CARRIES 10/3
Andrew Williamson made the motion to accept all line items under Police Details line item number 01-4211-141in the amount of $10,000. Bruce Van Derven seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion, no further discussion was made. MOTION CARRIES 11/2
Bruce Van Derven made the motion to accept all line items under Fire Department line item number 01-4220-110 through 817 in the amount of $812,306. Ashley Dolloff seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion.
Jon Thouin made a motion to amend line item 01-4220-390 entitled FD Alarm to $7,500 changing the bottom line $816,310. Bruce Van Derven seconded the motion. Mr. Thouin stated he believes this should be supported whether or not some of the funds get recaptured or not. MOTION TO AMEND CARRIES 12/1
Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the original motion that was amended by Jon Thouin, made by Bruce Van Derven to accept all line items under Fire Department line item number 01-4220-110 through 817 in the amended amount of $816,310. Ashley Dolloff had seconded the motion. MOTION CARRIES 9/4
Bruce Van Derven made the motion to accept all line items under Forestry line item number 01-4230-190 through 812 in the amount of $880. Jon Thouin seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion, no further discussion. MOTION CARRIES 10/2/1 abstention
Andrew Williamson made the motion to accept all line items under Crossing Guards line item number 01-4250-120 through 225 in the amount of $8,501. Ron Preble seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion. Dan Bouchard asked why the school does not pay for the crossing guard. Town Manager, Weston stated he believes it is because the Police Department Supervises this person. No further discussion was made. MOTION CARRIES 12/0/1 abstention Budget Deliberations Continued
Bruce Van Derven made the motion to accept all line items under Emergency Management item number 01-4290-190 through 840 in the amount of $253. Jon Thouin seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion, no further discussion MOTION CARRIED 12/0/1
Chairman Hemingway stated that the bottom line of the budget is $5,499,9794 at this point which is approximately $5.16 for a tax rate. Mr. Hemingway stated he would like to entertain a motion on the Highway Department Budget at this time.
Ashley Dolloff made the motion to accept all line items under Highway Department line item number 01-4311-110 through 941 in the amount of $483,592. Andrew Williamson seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion.
Dorcas Gordon made a motion to amend line item 01-4311-631 HD Sidewalks to $10,000 changing the bottom line of the Highway Department Budget to $487,592. Jon Thouin seconded the amended motion. Ms. Gordon stated she was persuaded by the Town Manager’s discussion stating the sidewalks are important to the infrastructure and the community. Chairman Hemingway asked for additional discussion on the amendment, no further discussion was made. MOTION TO AMEND CARRIED 11/1/1 abstention
Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the original motion made by Ashley Dolloff to accept all line items under Highway Department line item number 01-4311-110 through 941 amended to by Dorcas Gordon, and seconded by Jon Thouin, in the amount of $487,592. Andrew Williamson had seconded the motion original motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the original motion as amended. MOTION CARRIED 12/0/1 abstention
Ashley Dolloff made the motion to accept all line items under Highway Projects line item number 01-4312-360 through 392 in the amount of $53.001. Bruce Van Derven seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion.
Ron Preble made the motion to amend line item 01-4312-390 entitled Resurfacing Road to $50,000 changing the bottom line of Highway Projects to $103,001. Paul Simard seconded the amended motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion.
Ron Preble asked the Town Manager if he was happy with this line item, as years ago when road resurfacing was delayed it caused problems later? Town Manager, Weston stated it is a pay later type of thing, and costs increase later. Paul Simard stated he supports the amendment. Bruce Van Derven stated there is a $35,000 contingency fund that if a grant is received we could match it with those funds.
Budget Deliberations Continued
Jon Thouin stated even at $100,000 it is not at half of what was requested, and he really thinks we need to keep the infrastructure moving forward. Richard Walenda stated they need to go back to spraying the roads, and it will give you a good road for at least 5 years. Bruce Van Derven asked if the roads were Danforth Brook Road and Bristol Hill Road? Town Manager, Weston confirmed these were the roads in order of priority. Mr. Van Derven stated the HD Superientendant stated he could do half of Danforth Brook Road, and that the vast majority of Bristol Hill was traffic coming from Hill and could be done next year. Mr. Van Derven stated he feels it can be done for half the cost.
Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the amendment made by Ron Preble and seconded by Paul Simard changing 01-4312-390 entitled Resurfacing Road to $50,000, and changing the bottom line of Highway Projects to $103,001. MOTION TO AMMEND CARRIED 9/4
Chairman Hemingway called for a 3 minute recess at this time. (10:30 p.m.)
Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the original motion made by Ashley Dolloff accept all line items under Highway Projects line item number 01-4312-360 through 392 as amended by Ron Preble, seconded by Paul Simard amended to the amount of $103.001. Bruce Van Derven had seconded the origninal motion. MOTION CARRIED 9/4
Ashley Dolloff made the motion to accept all line items under Streets/Bridges line item number 01-4319-410 through 440 in the amount of $40.000. Bruce Van Derven seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion. Bruce Van Derven stated he does feel some of the lights need to be turned off to be more efficient.
John Thouin made the motion to amend line item 01-4319-411 entitled Street Lighting - Fixtures to one (1) dollar, changing the bottom line of Streets/Bridges to $40,001. Paul Simard seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion on the amendment, no further discussion, he then asked for a vote on the amendment. MOTION TO AMEND CARRIES 13/0/0
Chairman Hemingway called for a vote to the original motion made by Ashley Dolloff to accept all line items under Streets/Bridges line item number 01-4319-410 through 440 in the amount of $40.001 as amended by Jon Thouin and seconded by Paul Simard.. Bruce Van Derven had seconded the original motion. MOTION CARRIED12/1/0
Bruce Van Derven made the motion to accept all line items under Rubbish Disposal line item number 01-4324-120 through 810 in the amount of $215,304. Ashley Dolloff seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion, no additional discussion was made. MOTION CARRIED 11/0/2 abstentions Budget Deliberations Continued Ashley Dolloff made the motion to accept all line items under Fire Betterment line item number 01-4327-413 in the amount of $1.00. Ron Preble seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion.
Tom Winn stated he did not see any discussion about who is going to take care of the hydrants is it the Fire Department or the Water Department? Town Manager, Weston stated the Water Department is responsible for the hydrants, but sometimes they are assisted by the Fire Department. Bruce Van Derven stated at some point the Maintenance Custodian probably should be doing this as he recalls putting $10,000 in the budget to accommodate the transfer from one department to another, and maybe we can get this all under one roof. Dave Carr stated he thinks theWater Department should be responsible for this, as they are the experts with the hydrants. Jon Thouin stated the revenue sources it does speak of $10,000 for Fire Betterment, which is an internal transfer of restricted funds.
Jon Thouin made the motion to amend 01-4237-413 entitled Fire Betterment to $10,000. Paul Simard seconded the amendment. Chairman Hemingway asked for additional discussion.
Chairman Hemingway asked the Water Superintendent if the $10,000 was not in the budget would it hurt the department. The Water Superientendant stated it would not hurt the department, because the department has a surplus at the end of the year.
Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the amendment made by Jon Thouin moving line item 01-4237-413 entitled Fire Betterment to $10,000. This amended motion was seconded by Paul Simard. MOTION TO AMEND FAILED 3/10
Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the original motion made by Ashley Dolloff accept all line items under Fire Betterment line item number 01-4327-413 in the amount of $1.00. Ron Preble had seconded the motion. MOTION CARRIED 9/3/1 abstention
Dan Bouchard made the motion to accept all line items under Health line item number 01-4411-120 through 690 in the amount of $151. Andrew Williamson seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion on the motion.
Bruce Van Derven made the motion to amend line item 01-4411-690 entitled Health Officer’s Expenses to $1.00 changing the bottom line of the Health Budget to $2.00. Brenda Fritz seconded the motion. Mr. Van Derven stated the Health Officer is already receiving $55,000 already and he feels that is enough. Chairman Hemingway asked for additional discussion, no further discussion was made, the Chairman called for a vote on the amendment at this time. MOTION TO AMEND CARRIED 12/1 Budget Deliberations Continued
Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the original motion made by Dan Bouchard to accept all line items under Health line item number 01-4411-120 through 690 in the amended amount of $2.00. Andrew Williamson had seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the motion. MOTION CARRIED 12/1
Andrew Williamson made the motion to accept all line items under Humane Society line item number 01-4414-390 in the amount of $7,900. Ron Preble seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion on the motion.
Bruce Van Derven made a motion to amend the category line changing its name into Animal Welfare rather than Humane Society. Brenda Fritz seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the amendment. MOTION TO AMEND CARRIED 10/2/1
Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the original amendment made by Andrew Williamson made the motion to accept all line items amended to Animal Welfare by Bruce Van Derven, and seconded by Brenda Fritz line item number 01-4414-390 in the amount of $7,900. Ron Preble seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion on the original motion.
Dan Bouchard made the motion to amend line item 01-4414-390 entitled Animal Welfare Budget to $5,900. Brenda Fritz seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion. Dave Carr stated he believes they set the amount based on the previous years activity. Bruce Van Derven stated $2,000 was removed from the Public Safety in the Police Department Budget to put into this line item. Mr. Van Derven stated we paid $5,900 for 13 dogs and 1 cat, which equates to $461 per animal. Mr. Van Derven stated this is why he proposes to put it in an Animal Welfare line to look at alternative sources. Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the amendment. MOTION CARRIED 8/3/2
Bruce Van Derven made an amendment to the amended motion made by Dan Bouchard, and seconded by Brenda Fritz. Mr. Van Derven moved line item 01-4414-390 to $6,900. Brenda Fritz seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion on the amended amendment. Dorcas Gordon asked if this was enough money to pay to the Humane Society? Bruce Van Derven stated he changed the name of the category to Animal Welfare, therefore it will not necessarily go to the Human Society. Ms. Gordon stated she believes there is a societal benefit for using the Human Society. MOTION CARRIED 7/3/2
Budget Deliberations Continued
Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the original motion made by Andrew Williamson made the motion to accept all line items amended to Animal Welfare by Bruce Van Derven, and seconded by Brenda Fritz. The bottom line item number 01-4414-390 in the amount of $6,900, as amended by Bruce Van Derven. Ron Preble had seconded the motion. MOTION CARRIED 9/3/1
Chairman Hemingway asked Budget Committee members if they wanted to continue going through the budget, or finish up at the next meeting. It was decided that the majority wanted to continue on. Chairman Hemingway called for a vote to continue the meeting later in order to continue with Budget Deliberations. MOTION CARRIED 10/3
Brenda Fritz made the motion to accept all line items under Health Agencies line item number 01-4415-350 through 356 in the amount of $18,001. Ron Preble seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion on the motion.
Jon Thouin made an amendment to decrease the bottom line to $15,001 by decreasing line item 01-4415-350 entitled NANA to $15,000. Dan Bouchard seconded his amendment. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion on the amendment, no further discussion was made, and he then asked for a vote on the amendment. MOTION CARRIED 9/4/0
Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the original motion made by Brenda Fritz to accept all line items under Health Agencies line item number 01-4415-350 through 356 amended by Jon Thouin in the amount of $15,001. Ron Preble had seconded the original motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for additional discussion, no discussion was made, and he asked for a vote on the original motion at this time. MOTION CARRIED 9/4/0
Andrew Williamson made the motion to accept all line items under Welfare Administration line item number 01-4441-120 through 620 in the amount of $12,246. Ashley Dolloff seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion on the motion, no further discussion, the Chairman called for a vote. MOTION CARRIED 12/0/1 abstention
Andrew Williamson made the motion to accept all line items under Welfare Services line item number 01-4445-291 through 820 in the amount of $44,600. Bruce Van Derven seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion on the motion, no further discussion, the Chairman called for a vote. MOTION CARRIED 12/0/1 abstention
Budget Deliberations Continued
Bruce Van Derven made the motion to accept all line items under Recreation line item number 01-4521-650 through 890 in the amount of $97,749. Andrew Williamson seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion on the motion, no further discussion, the Chairman called for a vote. MOTION CARRIED 12/0/1 abstention
Andrew Williamson made the motion to accept all line items under Beaches line item number 01-4521-120 through 611 in the amount of $14,494. Tom Winn seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion on the motion.
Chairman Hemingway stated he would like to amend line item 01-4521-120 entitled Beach Attendants to $7,794. Bruce Van Derven seconded the motion. Mr. Hemingway explained he feels this line item we can make up a little bit of ground, and that there is not a lot of new revenue coming from this line item. Chairman Hemingway asked for further discussion on his amendment, no discussion, at this time he asked for a vote on the amendment. MOTION TO AMEND FAILED 4/6/2
Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the original motion made by Andrew Williamson to accept all line items under Beaches line item number 01-4521-120 through 611 in the amount of $14,494. Tom Winn had seconded the motion. MOTION CARRIED 12/1/0
Jon Thouin made the motion to accept all line items under Kelley Park line item number 01-4522-120 through 810 in the amount of $13,240. Ashley Dolloff seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion or amendments on the motion.
Dorcas Gordon made the motion to amend line item 01-4522-820 entitled Kelley Park Master Plan (Rev. from trust funds) to the amount of $25,000. Brenda Fritz seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion on the amendment. Ron Preble asked if we are encumbered on this item. Town Manager, Weston stated they are encumbered but not on this line item. Dan Bouchard asked if this will show up in Revenues? Mr. Weston indicated it would. Bruce Van Derven asked what the impact on the tax rate would be? Chairman Hemingway stated it would be a wash. Mr. Weston stated the $25,000 would be a wash but the $13,240 would be raised through taxation. MOTION TO AMEND CARRIED 12/1/0
Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the original motion made by Jon Thouin to accept all line items under Kelley Park line item number 01-4522-120 through 810 amended by Dorcas Gordon in the amount of $38,239. Ashley Dolloff seconded the original motion. MOTION CARRIED 12/1/0
Budget Deliberations Continued Dan Bouchard made the motion to accept all line items under Library line item number 01-4550-190 through 810 in the amount of $103,598. Bruce Van Derven seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion or amendments on the motion.
Jon Thouin made the motion to amend line item 01-4550-670 entitled LIB Books to $14,000 changing the Library Budget’s bottom line to $104,598. Paul Simard seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for any discussion on the amendment. Mr. Thouin stated he feels it is an important thing to keep up with. MOTION AMENDED CARRIED 7/4/2
Bruce Van Derven made the motion to amend line item 01-4550-672 entitled LIB Video to $1.00. Richard Walenda seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion. Bruce Van Derven stated the Library is great, but he feels they can go without videos this year. Mr. Van Derven stated maybe they could receive donations of video’s. Chairman Hemingway asked for additional discussion, no further discussion, the Chairman called for a vote at this time on the amendment. MOTION TO AMEND FAILED 6/7/0
Richard Walenda made the motion to amend the Library Budget by decreasing the bottom line by $40,000. Bruce Van Derven seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion. Richard Walenda stated we need to make some cuts within the budgets, and this library can be operated for much less. Jon Thouin stated the Library is more expensive to run now compared to years ago, more are going into the library to use books, and also to use the computer as most jobs you can only apply for online. Mr. Thouin stated he does not feel the Library Budget is unreasonable. Richard Walenda stated the Library payroll went sky high, and he feels it is ridiculous to be this high. Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on this amendment. MOTION TO AMEND FAILED 1/12/0
Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the original motion made by Dan Bouchard made the motion to accept all line items under Library line item number 01-4550-190 through 810, and amended by Jon Thouin, seconded by Paul Simard in the amount of $104,598. Bruce Van Derven had seconded the original motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the original motion. MOTION CARRIED 12/1/0
Andrew Williamson made the motion to accept all line items under Patriotic line item number 01-4583-120 through 891 in the amount of $17,440. Ashley Dolloff seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion or amendments on the motion.
Ron Preble asked what it is that the Special Events Coordinator does? Town Manager, Weston stated this person works on all the Town Events. Mr. Weston stated many of the things she works on used to be done by volunteers except volunteers has gone by the way side. Budget Deliberations Continued Dan Bouchard commented that the donations do not show up in the revenues, and he does not believe any of these things generate any revenue. Town Manager, Weston stated there were donations last year. Mr. Bouchard stated but we can not offset any of the expenses based on revenue we can not see. An individual in the audience spoke up stating vendors are charged at Old Home Day. Mr. Bouchard stated we need to see some revenues in order to justify the expenses. Bruce Van Derven stated it is getting extremely difficult to find volunteers to do anything, and if this line item is removed we will not make any revenue at all.
Ron Preble made the motion to amend line item 01-4583-120 entitled Special Events Coordinator to $5,720. Paul Simard seconded the amendment. Chairman Hemingway asked for further discussion, no further discussion, the Chairman asked for a vote on the amendment. MOTION TO AMEND CARRIED 10/3/0
Jon Thouin made the motion to zero out line item 01-4583-880 entitled Old Home Day and line item 01-4583-885 entitled Summer Concert Series changing the bottom line of Patriotic to $5,721. Richard Welanda seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion.
Jon Thouin stated despite the lack of volunteers we really need to lean upon the people who want these things to happen. Jon Thouin did not feel the concerts did anything to help the Town. Dorcas Gordon stated she disagrees she thinks they foster community and makes Bristol is a great place to live. Bruce Van Derven stated if these events do not get funded no one will be found to do them. MOTION TO AMEND FAILED 4/9/0
Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the original motion made by Andrew Williamson to accept all line items under Patriotic line item number 01-4583-120 through 891 in the amount of $11,721, as amended by Ron Preble, and seconded by Paul Simard. Ashley Dolloff had seconded the original motion. MOTION CARRIED 8/5/0
Adjournment
Jon Thouin made the motion to adjourn at 11:20 p.m. Paul Simard seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion.
Bruce Van Derven amended the motion to not have any reconsideration of Budget items passed tonight at this meeting, and to pick up where the Budget Committee left off at the Conservation Commission Budget at its next meeting. Brenda Fritz seconded the motion. Chairman Hemingway asked for discussion on the amendment, no further discussion, and he then asked for a vote. MOTION CARRIED 9/3/1 abstention Adjournment Continued
Chairman Hemingway asked for a vote on the original motion made by Jon Thouin to adjourn at 11:30 p.m. Paul Simard had seconded the motion. MOTION CARRIED 13/0
The next meeting of the Budget Committee will be held on Monday, January 26, 2009, at 7:00 p.m. in the Bristol Town Offices starting where they left off with the Conservation Commission Budget.
|