5/13/2015 BOARD OF SELECTMEN Minutes

Home Browse Search

Selectmen Gottlieb further amended his motion to reflect that execution of the document by the Board be contingent upon the document being fully executed by the close of business on May 20,2015. Motion seconded by Selectman Richardson. VOTE: Unanimous. 5-0 Roll Call Vote: Selectman Taylor,yes Selectman Richardson,yes Selectman Sherman, yes Selectman Cahalane,yes Selectman Gottlieb,yes COMMUNICATIONS & CORRESPONDENCE Selectman Taylor made his farewell remarks and conveyed thanks to the Board of Selectmen and Town Manager Joyce Mason. OLD BUSINESS Ballot Question#8 --Discussion Relative to Board's Position: Selectman Gottlieb reminded everyone present that at the December 1, 2014 Board of Selectmen meeting, it was voted unanimously that the Town remain the entity responsible for wastewater management. Selectman Gottlieb wished to state publicly that the passage of Ballot Question 48 is not consistent with the Board's position and, therefore, not in the best interest of the citizens of the community. Selectman, Gottlieb expressed concerns about handing over what would likely be the largest DPW project in the history of the community to the Water District,when it lacks the checks/balances of the Finance Committee, and when it is uncertain whether the Water District will accept the framework of the Town's plan. Selectman Gottlieb addressed concerns about 2 %2 overrides and limitations should the Water District take control of wastewater management. He stated that,although the Water District can appropriate money without the constraints of 21/2,it operates in relative anonymity and lacks public engagement in their process. He expressed concern that appropriate steps may not be taken to garner public understanding and support for the expenditure, and anticipated that residents will be confronted with an increase in their taxes without having the opportunity to weigh-in. He recommended that wastewater management be presented to the voters in the context of the Town's overall spending plan. Selectman Gottlieb addressed concerns by the Board members about the Town's AAA bond rating. His opinion being that the Town is a better credit risk, and it would be less costly for residents if the Town, not the Water District, did the