Pledge of allegiance..  Meeting Highlights:

Laura Bragg presented pole permits for signature as well as several appointments for deputies duties. She also had documents for vacation, conferences and professional development that needed approval.

Tim Bragdon explained a new trade school / program he is opening for special needs adults 18-21 and has invited the town elected people and people with interest to come and see the school. He explained the resources they have and the desire to do work and partner with the community. He described several ideas of community service and avenues the school may pursue once up and running. One project he mentioned the building greenhouses for Noble High School. (See Related Foster’s Story)

Firewood Bids were opened – Three were received - Brian Renaud – $611.55  Christine Torno – $555.00 and Tim Martin – $627.00 The proceeds from the sale will be placed in the general fund. The bid was awarded to Tim Martin.

Glen Stadig inquired about the clearing of brush on Lower Guinea near a new stop sign that was placed. Visibility to the left of the sign makes it is difficult to see traffic. He also inquired about the culvert work upcoming on Lower Guinea. Road Commissioner Torno was on hand and explained the culverts need replacement due to erosion between the culverts themselves and also they have rotted bottoms. Mr. Torno said he would do an assessment of the corner near the stop sign to improve the visibility.

Chris Gilpatrick submitted a request for information and inquired about the Selectmen’s time slips. Gilpatrick received an reviewed slips for the past year and found slips didn’t have in and out time noted as well as in some cases 16hr days were noted. Mr Cole had put in for 31hrs over 3 days. Gilpatrick asked if Selectmen approve each other’s time.. Selectmen responded that they didn’t. Many attending commented that improvements were needed to prevent this type of thing going forward. There was much discussion.

Tony Bragg asked if he would receive his request for information. Selectmen said it was approved and should have it.

Laura Bragg brought up a question about changing the town meeting date to correspond to the school vote about a month earlier than is done now. This could save the cost of having two separate elections. It would require the budget process etc to start one month earlier.

Of course there was more…

Watch 07-19-11 Lebanon Maine Selectmen Meeting in News | View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

Meeting opened at 6:30pm – Pledge of Allegiance

Laura Bragg presented appointment papers Town Hall positions to be signed by Selectmen.

Selectmen signed a letter of action to a resident over property conditions

Selectmen signed and implemented a credit card authorization form. This will be used for a Staples and credit card in the building. An email will be sent out to all Department Heads.

Tony Bragg – Inquired as to the cost of the legal fees for the opinion from the Portland attorney. He had made a formal request in May but info was not available. Mr. Frizzell said he thought it was in the $300 and something. A copy of the bill will be provided to Mr. Bragg.

Chris Gilpatrick – Asked if Selectmen had made a decision on the matter of Jason Cole stepping down as Asst. Rescue over concerns raised at the last meeting. Selectmen said that they had not.

Selectmen went into Executive Session approx. 6:45pm

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Minutes were approved for the previous meeting with no changes

The Selectmen voted for a new Chairman – Ron Patch nominated Bob Frizzell and they voted with Bob abstaining, electing Bob Frizzell Chairman for 2011-2012.

There was question over the time being on the agenda for opening the mowing and paving bids.. mowing 6:45pm and paving at 7:00pm. Selectmen Cole said he thought times were not going to be on the bid openings so they waited a bit and asked Chris Gilpatrick what he wanted since they had much time to wait.

Chris Gilpatrick explained he wanted his information. Cole said they were within the 5 days as required by law and they had many boxes to go through to get the info. Gilpatrick explained the request was received by the town 2/ 1/2 weeks ago by certified mail. Selectmen explained they had much going trying to run the town and close the year. Thay had been working on Town Manager stuff and Insurance renewal. Inferring Gilpatrick’s request is not a priority. Gilpatrick asked when they pay the bill don’t they have to check it against the contract? They said they do, but it simply will take some time.

Mowing bids were opened after a short delay – 2 bids were received..

Russell Howard (Rochester) – $140 per Mile or $55 per hr

C&R Trucking (Lebanon) – $ 182.50 per mile or $85 per hr

Paving Bids were opened immediately following the mowing

5 Bids were received

Brock Industries (Dracut) $75.40 ton machine – $110 per ton for hand

Pike Industries (Lewiston) $75.00 ton machine – $125 per ton for hand

Libby Scott (Wells) $ 71.60 ton machine – $115  per ton hand

FR Carrol of (Limerick) $63.70 per ton – All work? No Hand Specified.

RD Torno  (Lebanon) $63.98 ton machine – $125 per ton hand

Bids will be reviewed and awarded June 21st Selectmen’s meeting.

Meeting adjourned approx 6:48pm

Upon leaving I did see many of the paving contractors arriving.. obviously expecting the bids to be opened at 7pm as stated.

You can watch a video of the meeting HERE
The video library of recordings is available here… Video Library

Meeting opened with pledge of Allegiance

Selectmen Signed a warrant for the School Ballot on December 7th.

Missy Labbe with Ecomaine was introduced and presented information on Single Stream recycling. Her presentation consisted of Powerpoint Slideshow and a short movie of the Ecomaine facility and their sorting facility. It concluded with a Q & A session.

A brief overview..
Selectmen invited Ecomaine to come and provide information on how single stream recycling works and how it could save Lebanon money. Single stream recycling basically means residents would not have to sort recyclables as they do today to glass, plastic, cardboard and paper. All recyclables are commingled and tossed into the same container which would be compacted at the Transfer Station and sorted by Ecomaine, at the Ecomaine facility.
This process according to Ecomaine would reduce the number of trips to haul the waste due to the compacting and it will encourage a higher recycle rate which means less tonnage of regular waste. There are several rate plans and agreements available and all are standardized. The Ecomaine option at a minimum would require purchase of a compactor since Waste Management would not allow us to use one of the two we have for the purpose.
There are a lot of options and Ecomaine will assist with any cost studies the Selectmen would like to perform. It is very early in process but the presentation is very informative and I recommended everyone take the time and view it.

After the presentation Seelctmen opened the floor for public participation…

Town Clerk Laura Bragg mentioned she had received several inquiries about the “An Hour for your Neighbor” program started in many surrounding towns. Basically people can donate to a fuel fund to help your neighbor. Selectmen seemed warm to the idea, so look for more info to be released.

Mrs. Bragg also asked if the Selectmen would consider a “Tax Club” for people to pay there taxes in monthly installments. She explained that Berwick had implemented such a plan and it has been very successful. Generic coupon booklets for the purpose would cost $450 for 500 booklets and people simply pay their tax payment each month. Your taxes need to be current to get onto the program and there is no discount. The “Tax Club” just makes it easier for people who don’t escrow property taxes and provides another option to residents. To implement the program it would require a positive vote by the residents in June.

Mrs Bragg also asked Selectmen if the Town Vote would be the 2nd Tuesday in June as usual, Selectmen said yes.

The new Library under construction is 90 percent complete and is on budget. Selectmen anticipate it opening mid-December.

Selectmen have mailed a survey / newsletter to residents that should be received today. They ask to please return the survey since the information is an important tool in their training.

Resident Glen Stadig asked if the policy for the Transfer Station and Commercial Haulers has been completed it was in process most of the year. Chairman Cole said they had asked the Town Manger for Berwick what, Berwick would do?  Berwick stated if they were not pay for bag that they would allow commercial haulers. When asked what towns in the local area Selectmen had spoken to who DID ALLOW Commercial Haulers? Mr Cole responded, NONE that they were aware of but Ecomaine does have towns in there service area that allow them. Mr. Stadig clarified that Ecomaine services communities up north. Chairman Cole did explain that the commercial hauler is no longer allowed a key to the facility for access anytime.

Mr Stadig also asked about a staffing change at the Transfer Station that was not posted and involved the hiring of Selectmen /Department Head Ronal Patch’s brother?   Chairman Cole explained if a Department Head knows of a qualified, experienced person for a position they have latitude to hire them.  Mr. Stadig’s concern revolved around the fact that Mr. Patch has hired his wife and now his brother to his Department and this represented to much control. The immediate Patch family now constitutes a majority of employees at the town facility this is a liability. Further posting the position gives other people an opportunity to get a more qualified person for the position. Selectmen Patch explained that experience and qualifications were not needed for the position.

Chairman Cole thanked the Veteran’s for their ceremony last week, and said the Veteran’s Hunter’s Breakfasts and Suppers have been very successful with fund raising. He also thanked the Rescue volunteers for their hard work and their award from the state.

Chairman Cole also explained the enforcement of the out of state registrations was going well and they have some 250 vehicles identified and photographed. Sheriff Deputies and a Special State Investigator will be commencing with summonses soon.

Of Course there was more.. please watch the video..
You may right click Here and download a copy of the Ecomaine Powerpoint slideshow to follow along.

You may see the entire Lebanon Video Library Here http://www.veoh.com/group/selectmeetings

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The Budget Committee met to organize and prepare for the upcoming  budget season.

The meeting opened at 7pm with introductions and the election of a chairperson and secretary. The Budget committee elected Nancy Neubert  as Chairperson and Laura Bragg as Secretary. Laura is the Town Clerk but volunteers her time to the Budget Committee.

Conduct was reviewed for Budget Committee members and brief discussion explaining how things typically work and flowed. It was decided all requests and recommendations to Selectmen will be made in writing with a request for responses to be in writing as well. There was much concerns due to a request for present spending that was made several weeks ago had not been honored. Chairperson Neubert would be seeking help from County and State sources since this was believed to be a violation of Maine Right-to-Know Law.

The Budget Committee discussed what day and time to meet and decided on Wednesday nights from 6pm- 8pm.

Discussion was had over the Selectmen’s letter that was sent to all Budget Committee members. The letter contained a schedule and also stated that Selectmen would vote on the budget prior to submitting them to the committee. This would indicate the Budget Committee would not be allowed to change or influence the budgets. Chairperson Neubert had correspondence with Chairman Cole who had stated he would attend tonights meeting to explain this new process. Mr. Cole did not attend or call.

There was concern over the timeline Selectmen have scheduled to review budgets with department heads since there did not seem to be any slack in it to account for inclement weather or late information to the Budget Committee.

There was a desire to have the breakdown of Budget Committee votes placed back on the ballot for the upcoming year. It was felt this provided townspeople with more information. If the Selectmen want to state approves or disapproves this is fine, but the vote detail is important. It was also mentioned the Budget Committee vote tally taken by Selectmen Cole last year was never made public as he stated it would repeatedly.

Fire Chief Skip Wood was in attendance and explained his department was intending to seek the fire truck once again this year and asked if the Budget Committee would need a full presentation since it was pretty much the same. It was felt with the potential for changes and that the Budget Committee had many new people a presentation would be beneficial.

Meeting lasted approx: 53 minutes

Video of the meeting may be viewed on demand..

You may see and watch the entire Lebanon Video Library Here http://www.veoh.com/group/selectmeetings

Watch 11-10-10 Budget Committee Meeting – Lebanon Maine in News |  View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

(11/16/10 – Video re-encoded and re-uploaded to improve quality)

Meeting Highlights:

All Selectmen were in attendance

Here is a list of some of the items suggested by Selectmen and residents during the meeting. Selectmen will be looking in to these in the coming weeks.These are in no particular order of priority, simply a list.

Firetruck Fund to set a side say 50k or so each year towards purchase of a new firetruck.

Improvement of roads by spending much more and planning better. Perhaps implement and use a road review committee formed by volunteer residents as was done with success in the past. Look into cost analysis of outsourcing winter plowing versus homegrown approach.

Formulate a Town manager implementation plan. Meet with area Town Managers to gain insight, learn about contract needs, wording and salary requirements. Perhaps use a sub committee as part of the Selection process. Ideally get a person who will be with the Town for a while by properly matching skills and needs.

Grow the free Health Clinic services and also advertise them better

Institute a volunteer program for the new library and also other activities and programs in town.

Town Website improvements…notice updates, bid requests and awards, better usage by town departments instead of having all separate websites use a single site.

Quarterly Newsletter published and sent to residents with news, activities and information.

Office manager assigned with communicating vacation requests. internal correspondence and flagging correspondence to correct people.

Legal services usage and questions logged to save redundant information requests within the town hall.

Eco Maine coming in to do presentation opportunity of reducing cost on  Transfer Station waste July 20.  Enforcement of resident permits and elimination of commercial hauler using facility to reduce waste. Better utilization of current services by crushing co-mingles as suggested by Budget Committee.

Town Audit and other professional services placed out for bid. Doing so with insurances and phones has saved tons of money in the recent past.

Look into improving law enforcement in Town. Sheriff has suggested grant money may be available to offer a similar plan as last year providing Lebanon a full-time officer dedicated to our town only. Alternatively look into option of co-op or rental of officer from another neigboring town.

Publish a police log of sorts where information is available even if only total calls so that residents have an idea of the high volume of calls and if possible the type of call. Crime and drugs are a problem in town and residents need to be aware.

Better use of the planning board to review ALL projects in town. Currently a small amount of items get a formal review. Only subdivisions..this might be able to be changed with an ordinance.

Comprehensive Plan committee formed for purposes of preparing a Comprehensive Plan for the Town. This would be done by volunteers maybe a dozen or so. The plan was done a few years ago but required funding for the required maps. The funding did not get approved. Selectmen said we lose so much in the way of State Funds and Grants because we lack any formal plan. The old work could be used along with present state templates to prepare a plan quickly. This would all need public review and be voted to be adopted once completed. A Comprehensive Plan focuses on Zoning and develop areas and provides a growth plan or road map for the town.

Budget items presented in a standardized format and also available early in the process to the Budget Committee for proper review.

Record all the meetings, Selectmen, Planning Board etc via video and place online. Do this in a way that residents may access any of them on demand as other towns do. Also get cable provider to present them on TV so residents to stay informed.

Perform formal performance reviews of town staff. This has not been done routinely in the past and is necessary.

Crackdown on residents with out-of-state registrations. Many people register their vehicles out of state forgoing payment of Maine State Tax and Excise tax. That is money everyone else has to make up for.

Improve Selectmen and Board meeting notice postings, providing more notice of meetings along with agendas to  residents.  Also improve Bid request and bid results postings and their advance notice as well.

Restart the Department Meetings as they were done some time ago. This provides departmental updates and improves communication between the departments.

Of Course there was more…..

Meet adjourned 7:37pm – 1:06 min

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Attending – Selectmen Chairperson Cole, Selectmen Patch and Selectmen Frizzell

• Meeting Opened 6:35pm
• Heath Road Project – Project delayed until environmental impact is completed
• Tree Cutting – Residents questioned the tree cutting in West Lebanon and the coincidence that Chairperson Cole had a tree cut as well by the same contractor on the same day.  Concerns were the commingling of Town and private work. Chairman Cole had obtained a separate bill for the tree work but there was contention over the details of the entire project and work performed.
• Commercial Hauler Using Transfer Station – Residents asked status of policy that was to go into effect according to a letter stating it would be done June 1st. Selectmen said they were working on it and would have later in the month. The Selectmen stated that businesses could go into to use facility, then they said they could not. Mr. Patch stated regardless of what is done that Mr. Hartford the Commercial Hauler could use it. It is obvious that the usage of the facility is being and has been selectively applied. As example Sky Dive New England is permitted to use it and they are a business and campground but Flat Rock and other campgrounds are not.  Selectmen Cole stated he sees businesses in there. The residents primary concern is control of where the waste comes from and they felt that all businesses should take their waste directly to the Waste Management and bypass the Lebanon Transfer Station all together.
• Meeting adjourned – lasted appx 39 minutes

Of course there was more…

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Watch 06-15-10 Lebanon Maine Selectmen Meeting in News |  View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

All Selectmen were in attendance

Meeting Started appx 6:35pm

• Minutes from previous meeting were accepted
• Selectmen Cole read a proclamation for National EMS week, thanking the volunteers for their service.
• The Mowing Bids received two weeks ago were all rejected. The reason was they were unsure what areas needed to be mowed.
• Laura Bragg asked if with the recent staffing changes the locks could be changed on several cabinets in the office to ensure security to records, stickers, and stamps. Selectmen said yes and would contact a locksmith.
• Laura Bragg also asked what was to happen next year where the general budget has been set at 32 hours for staff but they will working 40, wont they run out of money? Selectmen Cole explained there was some room to absorb the extra costs and it should be fine.
• Glen Stadig asked when the Town Report would be available? Selectmen Cole explained the report needed to be done by the vote and that they were on track to have it before then. It will also be available on the town website via PDF soon.
• Glen Stadig asked if vote tally from the Budget Committee would be made available to residents. It was promised at the vote it would provided to the Budget Committee and residents at the town meeting. This has not occurred. Selectmen Cole said he needs to update a couple of the votes that were missed and format the sheet. He was hoping it could make the mailer, but it sounded doubtful.
• Glen Stadig asked why a Town Manager was not at the Town Meeting last evening to explain to residents the role a Town Manager performs? At earlier inquiries Selectmen had indicated North Berwick and or Berwick managers would be attending. Selectmen Cole said the meeting lasted 4 hours as it was and that he had trouble connecting with managers at the other towns.
• Glen Stadig asked for clarification why the Mowing Bids were rejected? The request was put out only three weeks ago, what has changed so drastically in that amount of time? Selectmen Chairman Frizzell said the rejection was due in part to washouts and ditching that has been done, left many areas without much to mow. Selectmen Cole said Selectmen could not reach a consensus on how to determine what to mow and it might be revisited later.  Selectmen do not want to pay for a mile of road to be paved, when only half needs to be done.
• Chris Gilpatrick spoke on the Mowing and said being a contractor if mowing was to be done the lowest bidder should still have the option to accept (this was not Mr. Gilpatrick’s company). He also said to have it re-bid at this time would not be right since all the bidders who submitted know the others prices. Mr. Gilpatrick stated his concerns this was a means to steer work to the contractor who has done the mowing the last couple years.
• The Paving bid was awarded to F.R. Carroll.
• Meeting adjourned appx 7:03

All Selectmen were in attendance

• Meeting opened at 6:30pm
• Minutes approved from last meeting
• Articles and materials for the June 8 town vote were signed
• Selectmen changed policy last week to allow benefits for employees who work 25 or more hours. This change has been made to the policy but there was question exactly how the revision should be done.
• Roadside Mowing bids were opened – Boucher Construction 160 mile, Russell Howard 140 Mile, Frank & Roxanne Bumford 145 Mile, Jr’s Trucking and Landscaping 145 mile, Gilpatrick Property Services 148 Mile, C&R Trucking 158 mile. – The project will be awarded during the 5/18/10 selectmen meeting. Selectmen Cole clarified the cost per mile was for both sides of the road for 1 mile.
• Public Participation was had while waiting for 7pm
• Laura Bragg asked that a notice be sent to all employees in there checks about political influence. There is a section in the employee handbook that essentially states you can’t stump for yourself or others during working or use your position for the same. Selectmen thought this was a good idea and will be done.
• Glen Stadig asked if the vote roster from the Budget Committee vote would be published. Selectmen Cole said he was missing a couple and needed to watch the video of the meeting to complete.
• Chris Gilpatrick asked if Selectmen had responded to his written request for a key to the transfer station from last week. Selectmen had but not mailed the letter and handed it Mr. Gilpatrick directly.
• Mr. Torno Sr. asked Selectmen if they expect taxes will increase or decrease? Selectmen Cole explained that there had been reduction in state funding, an increase in school expense, and significant cuts in town budgets with the goal of holding the line. Selectmen Cole expects the tax rate to hold about the same.
• Paving Bids were opened – Dayton Sand & Gravel 70.75 ton, Brocks Industries 86.45 ton 120 hand, Libby Scott 67 ton 120 hand, Pike Industries 76.50 ton, RD Torno 61.45 ton 110 hand, FR Carroll 59 ton 100 hand. The project will be awarded at the next Selectmen Meeting on 5/18/10.
• Mr. Torno spoke and asked if Selectmen take into account the distance the hot top is trucked and the temperature of it when laid? He also stated that in the past FR Carroll had charged for a water truck that was on site that was supposed to be part of the contract? Selectmen said they would look into it an make a decision to be announced in a couple weeks. Mr. Torno was upset and explained his disdain for Selectmen Frizzell for not awarding the bid to the lowest bidder (him) in the past and claimed it was because Mr. Frizzell personally didn’t like him, a claim Mr. Frizzell denied stating he really didn’t know Mr. Torno.
• The Heath Road Culvert Project was awarded to Brown Industrial Group for $59,433 the next closest bid was about $83,000
• Of Course there was more….
• Meeting was adjourned appx 7:15pm…lasting appx 39 minutes

You may see the entire Lebanon Video Library Here http://www.veoh.com/group/selectmeetings

Watch 05-04-10 Lebanon Maine Selectmen Meeting in News |  View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

Meeting Highlights:

Selectmen made a change to the Town Personnel Policy to allow benefits to paid to employees that work 25 hours or more. Previously the benefits were provided at 32 hours. This change was made to make allowance for the reduction in hours at the town hall and CEO.

Selectmen signed paperwork for the upcoming school budget and voting. The School budget review will be Thursday May 6th at the Noble High School. All residents are encouraged to attend and participate. This is the meeting that will set the budget that will be voted on by the town on Tuesday May 10th.

Chris Gilpatrick asked if Selectmen had made a decision over his request in November to have a key for the transfer station. He said a key is provided for the commercial hauler to use at anytime and that other residents should be allowed the same opportunity. Mr Gilpatrick has raised this issue at nearly every meeting. Mr. Gilpatrick also requested he receive an answer by next Tuesday and that the Selectmen Response be in writing. Chairperson Frizzell said that he would like to see a written request from Mr. Gilpatrick if he would like a written Selectmen response. Mr Gilpatrick said Selectmen could expect it tomorrow.

Selectmen Cole gave public thanks to the Fire Department for the cleaning of the Town Hall parking area. The department used the high pressure hose to wash off the winter sand that had accumulated. A letter was also sent.

There was some general chatter since there was about 15 minutes of time before the hearing could be opened. It had been publicized for 7pm.

The Hearing was opened for the adoption of the 2005 General Assistance Ordinance as required by the State. The hearing was opened, the ordinance adopted and then closed without objection.

Bids were opened for the Heath Road Culvert Project. A copy of the Bid request is Here

• Morrill Excavating $83,000 – North Berwick, ME
• STS Construction $95,409 – Lebanon, ME
• Brown Industrial Group $59,438 – Berwick, ME
• Peter’s Construction $155,500 – Gorham, ME
• William Shaplieh $96,528 – Eliot, ME

The project will be awarded at the next Selectmen Meeting.

Of course there was more…

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Meeting Highlights:

Meeting Minutes from 4/21/10 were reviewed and approved without changes.

Selectmen Cole handed out new referendum sheets since some of the wording and order of the items changed since they were issued Friday night.

A numbered list representing referendums was handed out indicating where conflicts existed and who should abstain on the item. This was discussed with the only issue really being Jane Gerrish adamant about voting on the Fire Department Budget and New Fire Truck. Mrs Gerrish is on the Ladies Auxiliary, and there had been measures taken such as getting a tax id number, insurance etc. to separate the group from the Fire Department. In the end Selectmen decided it was o.k. to allow her to vote on the items.

There was also some discussion over vote tallies. Selectmen Cole would be recording who voted for what as the voting commenced. Some Budget Committee members had concerns over the practice, but it was allowed. In the past a simple tally of all those in favor – against and abstained would be kept for the Budget Committee and the Selectmen.

Referendum Items were reviewed in order with some  minor questions asked as each item came up. Discussion over the items had really all been done during earlier meetings. The votes were recorded noting those for, against, and abstain for Budget Committee and Selectmen.

At the end of the meeting Selectmen Cole explained the votes would be listed with each ballot item as  Budget Committee “Recommend this Article Pass”  “Recommend this Article Not-Pass” or “No Recommendation – Tie Vote”. This is a change that many Budget Committee members took offense to, believing that the vote tallies themselves should also be shown so people could see if it was a close vote or not. Selectmen Cole explained in looking at other Town Reports this is the way it is typically done and makes things less confusing for the residents. He said the vote tallies would be made available to residents but not on the ballot.

There was some discussion over items due to wording or lack of detail in either dollar figures or dollar limits. Rather than try and explain all items it is best you watch the video. The only pointed issue was Selectmen Frizzell’s insistence on being paid mileage to and from the town hall. All other departments and Selectmen Do Not get paid or submit mileage in this way and the Budget Committee was told last year the practice would stop. When Committee members questioned Mr. Frizzell he said if he wanted to micro manage he would also submit calls made to his business phone and business fax as well as other expenses. This was an indignant response  many on the Budget Committee took exception too.

The Sample Referendum is Here for your review in PDF format.

Of Course there was more….

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Meeting Highlights:

Selectmen Cole was in attendance – Meeting lasted 2:28 min

Meeting minutes from yesterday were accepted without changes..

Selectmen Cole handed out the Draft Ballots. Ballot items were not numbered since the order will change and has not been finalized. Most of the budget items were lacking actual values. Selectmen Cole said the forms would be completed and emailed to the board on Friday in their final state.

The Budget Committee proceeded to go down through the 40 items  providing input on changes to wording and recommended amounts. The Budget Committee also asked questions on each of the items in some cases providing policy input.

The questions on Rescue Department Funds from last evenings meeting that were posed by Mr. Bragg, were answered, as well as the information requested by Chairperson Neubert. Selectmen Cole also answered questions on revenue flow and explained how the Rescue funds are used to save the Town from getting TANS to cover expenses.

Selectmen Cole explained that the Transfer Station and Highway budgets would NOT be changed from the amounts Selectmen recommended.  He listened to the points made over waste, cost savings, management, commercial hauler, and hiring and operating of ones own equipment, but explained they would not be changed.

Questions about the Fire Chief’s mileage were addressed and Selectmen Cole said there will be no regular mileage. This will drop the Fire Budget some $3400.  Selectmen Frizzell is still putting mileage in for trips to the town hall. The Budget Committee wants all mileage reimbursement to stop for travel to the the place of work, like the fire house and town hall. Travel for outside issues is different.

Selectmen Cole did note the changes on the other budgets as the committee recommended but did not confirm those would be the numbers we would see published on Friday. He also made notes on corrections to wording and definitions desired on some of the ballot items, again this will be a wait and see.

The “Incompatibility of Office” information was discussed. Selectmen Cole said that the Town Attorney and the County District Attorney were consulted and the situation in Lebanon is different. Harpswell has a Union Agreement and Lebanon is a “work at will” so in Lebanon’s situation the incompatibility of office doesn’t apply in the matters of the Transfer Station and Selectmen Patch. Many still did not understand how it could not apply and the situation be allowed as it is. A Member asked about the “incompatibility of office” with the Road Commissioner hiring his own equipment and operating it while also being paid a salary and benefits from the town.  Selectmen Cole said that had not been looked into.

Concerns over the Budget Committee alternate that was selected by Selectmen was discussed. The person only attended the initial meeting of the board and has not made any other meetings. Selectmen Cole said Selectmen questioned the persons availability and they said they could do the position. Mrs. Bragg said there were several persons running this year and having an alternate available shouldn’t be an issue next year.

The Budget Committee will be meeting Monday April 26th to vote their recommendations to residents.

of course there was more….

Online Video Archive of Lebanon Town Videos http://www.veoh.com/group/selectmeetings

Meeting 2:28 min

Watch 04-21-10 Lebanon Maine Budget Committeea in News |  View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

No Selectmen were in attendance at the meeting,  Meeting lasted about 2 hours

Minutes were reviewed and accepted..

A cursory review was done of the modified budgets to get Budget Committee members feeling on the changes.

Highway / Roads  -

• A member pointed out that the resubmitted budget indicated a 10% decrease, but the decrease was from the original amount requested NOT the amount of last years budget. The budget actually represents about a 10% increase with most of that amount in the paving line.
• It was pointed out the need to see project plans of what work was to get done. The impression is that being the largest budget in town it should have the best planning and the budget provided just provides sparse detail and to much flexibility.
• Quality of work and repairs was reviewed. Areas where roads have been washed out some time ago that were filled with stone have never been revisited and paved. Many questioned the use of FEMA monies and the lack of our town to get it’s share citing examples of tree work a year ago, where a neighboring town received 3 times the money for clean-up and remediation.
• Regarding FEMA and tracking of road repairs it was learned that the Treasurer manages what tracking is done. This seems counter intuitive and should have direct management of the Road Commissioner.
• Many felt the budget should be reduced to last years levels with no increase.
• Concerns over Road Commissioner hiring and operating his own equipment were voiced.

Rescue

• Several members voiced concerns that there were no cuts to the Rescue Budget, in these difficult times everyone needs to sacrifice. A counter point was made that many town budgets are cut extremely tight already and we ask not only Rescue, but Fire, EMA etc to do a lot with a little. Given the increased call volume and likely hood of a potential second ambulance the budget does represent a cut.
• One member had asked for a revenue report but was told it awaiting the Auditor to complete. This was several weeks ago and was not handled through the Budget Committee process. The Budget Committee Chairperson had requested some information last Thursday on account balances for all accounts and had not received it. It was pointed out that Friday is an off day, Monday was a holiday, so in reality they had only had the request a day.
• There was a sheet with two proposed Referendum items, to make enterprise accounts for Rescue and Summer Recreation. Basically these would allow monies to be carried forward from donations and other sources, thus not re-entering the general fund as unspent monies typically do. Many had concerns with the wording and felt it was to ambiguous and should be spelled out clearer.
• There was a sample Rescue Department Ordinance provided that provided in essence a breakdown of roles and responsibilities for the department. There is nothing presently to  codify department and it was felt the proposed measure was a good one. However there was a sentence that stated the rescue Chief is appointed by Selectmen for an indeterminate time. Many wanted a clarification of the phrase and possibly have it reworded.

Library

• The Librarian had spoke last meeting on many of the concerns the Budget Committee had.  Some felt there should be more cuts, but with the potential for year round operation (If the Library Expansion at the Hanson School Passes) the extra would be needed.
• One committee member thought it was necessary to have the Library open on Saturday to allow more access.

Recreation

• There were cuts to Recreation but many members still think $1300 in Movie tickets is a waste. Many still don’t care that activities that should be self funded like line dancing, walking groups etc are being funded by the town. These activities should be sponsored by the participants and the the town.

Transfer Station

• The Transfer Station budget at last review did not have cuts. It was demonstrated that 20k could be removed without great impact still leaving room for projects and the increased solid waste fees.
• Tires were discussed and the comment made by Selectmen Patch last week that several slips were submitted and paid were actually Lebanon NH’s. Many thought it odd that the department head would not have easily caught the slips and asked how the bills are paid. Another member questioned why Lebanon NH would bring a vendor from northern Maine down to haul their loads. None of this made any sense.
• Many felt that there were measures that could be taken to generate revenue from the cans and waste as well as decrease expenses (disallowing commercial hauler to use facility, flattening co-mingled items, enforcing permits  etc). Several examples have already been provided as well as ideas other towns are using. Why is none of this pursued?

Incompatibility of Office / Harpswell Case

• Paperwork was presented showing the information from a case in Harpswell Maine where a transfer station employee, ran for Selectmen and won the seat. Selectmen for Harpswell asked the judge to review the situation due to concerns of conflict of interest and incompatibility of office. The circumstances of the case are very similar to conditions Lebanon.
• The Paperwork cites many applications of Maine law on the matter. In summary the document points out how it is inappropriate to have a Town Employee and also be a Selectmen or Elected Officer.  In effect incompatibility of office of exists when you effectively are supervising yourself or your supervisor or are involved with financial decisions that impact each other such as budgets, wages, benefits.
• This issue was brought up to Selectmen as a conflict of interest last year by residents when Mr Patch submitted paperwork to run for Selectmen. It was allegedly investigated by the Selectmen and deemed o.k. by legal opinion of the Town Attorney. The newly obtained materials referencing Maine State Law indicate that it is a problem. The Budget Committee provided the information obtained to the Selectmen and has asked that Selectmen address the matter in regards to Selectmen Patch / Transfer Station as well as Road Commissioner Davis and Mr. Davis hiring, operating, and supervising his own equipment while being paid by the town.
• Maine Law states that in this case where a person has incompatibility of office, an office holder who qualifies for and accepts a second office which is incompatible with the one already held, vacates the former, as if it has been resigned. It further states this shall not be left to the fluctuating whim of the office holder or chance and that this rule is indispensable for the protection of the public.
• The document further states that there is no constitutional right to be able to hold public office and public employment. Many cases were cited as examples.
• The Documents provided Selectmen are  – Harpswell Maine Case - MRSA 30-A – Townsman Incompatibility of Office Article – MRSA 20-A -  You may view the documents in PDF format by clicking the links.

There were concerns over review of the ballot items and the vote which has to take place Monday.  The Budget Committee has done everything possible to accommodating the Selectmen and there is great frustration over the last minute push. There was also concern over the fact no Selectmen attended the meeting since many questions could have been answered with there valued input.

A letter of recommendations for the budgets discussed as well as a request for action on the “incompatibility of office”  matter will be created by the Budget Committee Chairperson and sent along to Selectmen.

Of Course there was more…

Online Video Archive of Lebanon Town Videos http://www.veoh.com/group/selectmeetings

Part 1 of 2 of 4/20/10 Meeting 1:28 min

Watch 4-20-10 Lebanon Maine Budget Committee Part 1 of 2 in News |  View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

Part 2 of 2 of the 4/20/10 meeting – 29 minutes

Watch 04-20-10 Lebanon Maine Budget Committee Part 2 in News |  View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

Present: Selectmen Ronal Patch, Selectmen Jason Cole, Selectmen Chairman Bob Frizzell,  Town Clerk Laura Bragg

Meeting started approximately 6:35pm and ended at approximately 8:05pm

• Meeting minutes were approved for past February and March meetings…
• The School Bond Warrant item was signed by Selectmen. This allows the bond issue sponsored by the school department to come before the people for vote. The Bond encompasses several projects in the district towns. The one directly affecting Lebanon is a $235,000 +/- addition to the Hanson School, which would provide an expanded public library with year-round access. The direct cost to Lebanon would be something like $90,000 which is available in a trust fund for the purpose. Complete details will be forthcoming as we get closer to June.
• Godeepmud.com came before Selectmen to request renewal for the permit for mass gathering. Godeepmud.com operates a venture for mud racing just of Rt 202 and has several events during the year. Last year was there first year and it was very successful and well received. There were issues with noise, parking and such but these were addressed timely and several improvements have been made to the area where the event is held to improve safety, parking access and parking  capacity.  The permit was granted and their first event will be upcoming in a couple weeks.
• A resident came before selectmen to request a Tax Abatement.  After hearing the residents concerns and dilemma, and much discussion to learn the facts the Selectmen ultimately denied the request. They explained how the property was in line with similar properties therefore no change could be made.
• Glen Stadig asked if any change has been made to policy at the transfer station to limit the volume of tires being disposed of. He explained over 3200 tires have been brought through the transfer station since September, with half of them being moved during December.  Selectmen stated the dropping of tires in town was a problem and they routinely get picked up. Stadig explained over 48 ton of tires in five months is absurd when other towns have like 75-200 (1-2 ton). There was talk of trying to catch the dumpers, but not much else. over $7500 dollars has been spent this year disposing of the tires not accounting for hauling fees and time to pick-up the tires.
• Chris Gilpatrick asked what the intent was of the letter that was sent out by Selectmen to the Budget Committee stating all requests for information must come through the Budget Committee Chairperson. He felt as an elected person he should be able to make simple requests directly instead of going through a set of channels that only add complexity and delay. Selectmen explained it is to prevent duplication of effort and request from several people and is not uncommon when dealing with boards or committees. Request for information have not been a problem, but Selectmen are trying to be proactive.
• Chris Gilpatrick also asked the Selectmen the status of the Budgets. They said the General Government Budget would be available to the Budget Committee tomorrow night and that they also had several changed budgets to share.
• Of course there was more..

View the entire online Video Archive Here

4/6/10  Part 1

Watch 04-06-10 Lebanon Selectmen Meeting Part 1 in News |  View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

4/6/10 Part 2

Watch 04-06-10a Lebanon Maine Selectmen Meeting P2 in News |  View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

Meeting Highlights:

• General Administration Budgets are STILL NOT AVAILABLE, well they are but there not..you get the picture.
• The Roads budget is being revisited and may be seeing some changes
• Rescue budget is about the same as last year even though their call volume is up significantly.
• The Ambulance is in dire need of Air Bags that are used to raise and lower the box. The maintenance will take the Ambulance offline for up to two weeks, since the whole box must be removed to change the units out. During this time the town will be reliant on mutual aid coverage from away.
• Rescue is regularly finding difficulty in dealing with multiple calls. Volunteers arrive on scene and begin treatment, but the Ambulance is already on another call and the responders have to wait for an Ambulance from another town to respond. Chief Cole explained seconds count in an emergency. They detailed several cases during the presentation.
• Rescue is seeing increased calls for mutual aid to help other towns.
• Rescue explained the need for an additional Ambulance. Call volume, service to residents, mutual aid are all a part of it. The additional ambulance would pay it’s own expenses through revenue generated, it further would provide a back stop for maintenance of the current ambulance. There is a large enough volunteer base to support the second unit.
• Although first and foremost Rescue is concerned with saving lives and emergency response it does provide revenues. the revenues not only cover it’s own operating expense but saves the town money. The town is able to save a significant amount of money by utilizing the Rescue’s revenue. By doing this the Town doesn’t have to borrow money to pay bills while waiting for tax proceeds to come in.
• The last portion of the meeting regarding the New Ambulance was missed on the video.
• Of course there was more….

The Lebanon online video archive is available Here.

UPDATE 3/29/10 – Added second half of video

Watch 03-17-10 Lebanon Maine Budget Committee in News |  View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

In Attendance: Selectmen Patch, Selectmen Cole, Selectmen Secretary Sue Collins, Town Clerk Laura Bragg and 4 residents. Meeting lasted roughly 50 minutes. Selectmen Chairperson Bob Frizzell was absent…no reason provided.

• A resident came concerned over the changes in Shoreland Zoning. The changes being made are required and will be placed to the people for vote in June. The exact changes are unclear, and the Planning Board has the details. The plan should be available 45 days before vote and the town will try to place information online.
• Laura Bragg asked if Selectmen will be having a Town Manager come to speak on the job and role of a Town Manager since the item will be on the ballot. Selectmen said that they had spoken to North Berwick’s Town Manager Duane Morin and he said he could be available. There was also interest in possibly contacting Berwick as well.
• A resident came in concerned about the gate placed on Hebo Hibo Road. Selectmen Cole explained the gate was placed there to keep people out of the area. There has been lots of trouble with partys, fires, mischief and trash. Since the road is subject to gates and bars the Town of Lebanon felt it is the best interest to gate the road. All property owners will be provided keys.
• Laura Bragg explained the Town of Lebanon purchases passes for Water Country, Funtown USA, and the movie theaters at a discount rate. These are available to residents and will be advertised on the town site. There was a question on the movie tickets since they needed to be purchased ahead of time.
• Laura Bragg wanted to ensure Selectmen understand since the town does referendum voting, the ballot must be finalized by Monday, April 26th to allow the 45 days as required. Selectmen are urged to get all the items together to placed on it early.
• Chris Gilpatrick had questions and concerns over having a single Budget for the Roads department versus having a Winter and Summer budget as has always been done. Primarily his issue is the money could be spent leaving no funds to plow, salt, and sand. Selectmen Cole explained the single budget was recommended by the attorney and the town auditor. He also explained how payments are approved by Selectmen and signed off and that spending for each of the department is checked routinely. Selectmen Cole felt there was little to be worried about and that checks and balances were sufficient.
• Chris Gilpatrick also raised concerns over the nearly $300,000 remaining in this years winter budget. He wanted to see the money moved forward for next year and not spent. Selectmen Cole said that some roads had received damage with the recent storms and some of that work would likely come from these funds but some should remain.  Heath Road is also a problem and may be done from these funds.
• Glen Stadig asked that the policy requiring Budget Committee members paying for financial information be revisited. Just last week when doing research a charge of $5 per department was levied when requesting simple electronic reports from the accounting system. It cost $30… Mr. Gilpatrick had requested a vendor listing and was charged $28. The same report was later provided to the Budget Committee for free.  Selectmen said that reasonable requests made by those in a Budget Committee role would be provided an exception. They said to contact the Treasurer for a refund.
• Glen Stadig also asked that the Selectmen consider sharing the Budget Status reports they look at routinely with residents via the town website.
• Of course there was more….

The Lebanon online video archive is available Here.

Watch 03-16-10 Lebanon Maine Selectmen Meeting in News |  View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

Meeting Highlights:

Recreation Department:

• The recreation budget was reviewed (I arrived late so i don’t have all the detail )
• The recreation department purchases about 150 discounted movie passes that are available annually. The passes save about .50 a ticket.
• The Recreation Department has many activities and services but most residents are unaware. The schedules and services should be posted better.
• A certain portion of the funds used by the Department are matched by the others.

Schools:

• The schools have done an good  job of cutting by managing the continued downsizing of services and people in a way to impact the children the least.
• The anticipated effect to Lebanon at this time is an increased cost of about $90,000 over last year. This increase is really more caused by how the “share” is calculated between the three towns. this calculation is explained in detail during the meeting.
• The early budget forecast was for a much more significant increase, but this was able to be curbed.
• One of the creative measures being used at the school was using some bus drivers also as also custodians. they used similar approaches in other areas to maximize use of people.
• A survey was conducted online and the trends captured were reviewed, such as where people preferred cuts be made, and potential changes to the school year and it’s schedule.
• Mr Andrade stepped through his budget and fielded questions from the Budget Committee. Joanne Potter, our school board representative, was also in attendance and provided insight on the process.
• Mr Andrade explained the potential plan to add a public library addition to the Hanson School. This would provide residents with a year-round library and construction could be funded by grants and the trust monies set aside by the town. The library would have it’s own entrance so the public would not enter the school.
• Having a Library open year round would allow Lebanon to participate in grants and programs that have been unavailable to us in the past.
• I placed a scanned copy of the handouts provided here in PDF. The Library Blueprint and the Town Sharing ratio worksheet are near the very end of the document.
• Of course there was more…..

The video below picks up the meeting in process at the start of the School discussion.

(Video: Watch this video on the post page)

The Lebanon online video archive is available Here.

This week the Budget Committee reviews the Code Enforcement Officer (CEO) and Road Commissioners Budgets.

I would like to mention there were Three residents who came and observed. It is great to see people taking an interest in seeing for themselves how things are run and monies are handled. We need more involvement and support…

Code Enforcement Officer

• The CEO was reviewed first and the Committee spent about 30 minutes going over the budget.
• The CEO’s budget has been voted down by the residents for the past 3 years, and rolls back to old funding of $37,000.
• The CEO’s budget request was about $39,000
• The CEO does bring in revenue through the issuing of permits. He explained how Lebanon is about 1/4 the cost of any other towns and how important it is we increase the fees to the developers to get more inline. The fees are a revenue stream to the town and if even brought up slightly they would more than cover expenses.
• The CEO also explained how the position is more that just doing an inspection and issuing a permit. He explained briefly his involvement with enforcement of illegal junk yards and public safety issues.

The Road Commissioner went through his budget.

• Wages are listed at $46,000 which was explained as the road commissioners salary AND sub contractors
• The budget is broken out to categories like wages, ditching, brush, sand, hot top etc. The categories represent estimates but monies are freely moved between groups once appropriated to the period.
• In the past the Road budget would be broken out with a total for Summer and a total for Winter which is voted upon. The Budget Committee was told this year residents would vote on the total and be provided an estimated  breakout. Essentially this places all the funds in one bucket for the entire year to be spent at the Roads Commissioner’s discretion.
• There is no specific plan of what improvements will be done with the monies, no specifications have been prepared and no bids have been received for any of the upcoming potential work.
• A Budget Committee member questioned the paving bid last year was won by FR Carroll but other paving done by other companies from NH. The Road Commissioner said that it was a smaller project. When asked by another Committee member why one of the local in town paving companies wasn’t contacted the Road Commissioner had no response.
• The Road Commissioner was asked why the same group of  6-8 “sub contractors” are used every single week and kept busy with ditching and projects. This amounts to having a highway department, when the work is supposed to be sub contracted and bid by project. The Road Commissioner responded that if a tree fell at 2am you need someone you can call who would respond.
• Two of the Budget Committee members who are intimate with roads, paving, plowing and methods asked serious questions over the practices used by the Road Commissioner.  These included; using small one ton trucks for ditching versus using larger ones, making the ditches gradual to prevent washout and allow wider shoulders, properly building shoulders on roads to save the pavement, and the proper rebuilding of roads by grinding and removing rocks versus simply coating over the problems.
• It was pointed out as it has in the past that using small one ton trucks to haul dirt clear across town is not cost effective and that larger trucks should be used.
• It was questioned why the closest pit is routinely not used when hauling material. The Road Commissioner stated that someone is available to load at Selectmen Frizzell’s pit. Committee members questioned the Commissioner’s planning ability to look ahead and the why he couldn’t make use of the $1200 spent annually on phones to make a simple call to notify the closer pit of the need.
• Budget Committee asked the Commissioner why the town (itself) had done some paving. it was explained that there was a small area at the end of a private road where a bus turnaround was, this also included the coating of a boat ramp.
• The Road Commissioner explained the budget he requested was initially about the same as last year $970,000 -/+ and that the Selectmen had increased the budget $200,000 primarily for road improvement and paving. The was talk of the desire to rebuild a section of Heath road due to poor drainage and the need to resurface a couple other areas. None of the work has been fully specified or bid.
• Near the end of the meeting the Road Commissioner while being asked a question over his practices and methods, stood up and dismissed himself stating he was tired of it and was done.
• Of course there was more….

<<The Video of this meeting has been stuck in the que at the normal provider and is awaiting a solution when available it will be added to the library>>>

In the meantime,  I have added the video into the post and you should be able to stream this directly with a broadband connection. Note you can click the lower right hand corner to make full screen on your computer.

(Video: Watch this video on the post page)

The Lebanon online video archive is available Here. Here you will find all of the Selectmen and Budget Committee meetings.

The Lebanon online video archive is available Here. Here you will find all of the Selectmen and Budget Committee meetings.

Watch 02-23-10a Lebanon Maine Budget Committee in News |  View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

The Lebanon online video archive is available Here. Here you will find all of the Selectmen and Budget Committee meetings.

Watch 02-17-10a Lebanon Maine Budget Committee in News |  View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

Meeting Highlights:

Attending Selectmen Chair Bob Frizzell, Selectmen Ronal Patch, Selectmen Secretary Sue Collins, Town Clerk Laura Bragg

Selectmen Cole is on vacation..

• Meeting Opened at about 6:35pm.
• Minutes from the last several meetings were accepted.
• Paperwork for Election Clerks was submitted for signature, Mr Patch would not sign until tomorrow.
• A Red Cross Proclamation was read, making March Red Cross month.
• The Public Hearing has been set for May, 17, 2010 7pm at the Lebanon Elementary School. This hearing will be to review the items that will be on the on the June 8, 2010 ballot.
• Meeting adjourned about 6:43pm.

You may watch the entire meeting video online by clicking link below. Alternatively you may download any of the other videos as well. You will find the  online video library here.

Watch 02-16-10 Lebanon Maine Selectmen Meeting in News |  View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

• Minutes were read and approved
• The Budget Committee had not met in two weeks due to lack of Budgets being available from Selectmen. As it was Budgets were NOT received until the until the meeting tonight so there was really no business acted upon since the material could not be reviewed.
• Selectmen Patch and Cole were in attendance.
• Concerns were raised with the Selectmen over the time line only having seven remaining weeks and lack of available budgets. It was explained they are doing the best they can and expected the Fire Department to be completed tomorrow with other following.
• Selectmen Cole explained the need for everyone to attend the County Budget meeting next week. He explained how the county was doing more with less but do to State funding cuts there presently would be about a 6% increase to the towns. The Budget Committee moved the meeting date up to Tuesday so that members may participate.
• There was some discussion on the Schools. There was desire to hear from the School Board and to see if they might be able to meet with us to share. Participation by the townspeople is paramount during the process. Last year maybe 20 people attended.
• Information requested a couple weeks ago was handed out which included vendor lists, and salaries for town employees. There were also examples of mileage expense slips from various people. The most notable was a slip for Jan 2010 by selectmen chair Frizzell submitting for going to the Town Hall which the Budget Committee pointed out last year was to be stopped.
• Of course there was more…

The meeting ran about an 43 minutes..

The Lebanon online video archive is available Here. Here you will find all of the Selectmen and Budget Committee meetings.

Watch 02-11-10 Lebanon Maine Budget Committee Meetinga in News |  View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

Minutes read from last meeting, approved without changes

Budget Committee Reviewed EMA and E-911 Budgets…

These budgets are small. There were not many questions over EMA. Mainly over confusion of radios that were purchased under a separate warrant. The E-911 budget appeared like it could be reduced significantly by consolidating and or not using a home office arrangement. Further the labor could be saved by having the CEO could do the numbering as part of the building permit / occupancy process. Last year the E911 director used less than half of the allocated wages due to a slow year. The position estimates provided were for 4-5 hours per week.

Concerns were raised over the fact the older computer system was being used instead of the nearly new laptop purchased for the purpose. Further data back-up was a concern in either instance.

It was indicated that the Selectmen would not be making any changes to these budgets. They would remain as is, which brought discussion over the Budget Committee’s purpose. If the Selectmen would or will NOT be responsive to matters raised then all we could do is vote NO.

Concerns were raised over lack of participation by Selectmen as well as the absence of budget for next review at next weeks meeting. Next weeks meeting has been postponed and moved out until Feb 10, 2010 due to unavailability of budgets.

These first budgets submitted for review were virtually unchanged from previous year in total. The Budget Committee was anticipating some cuts and are hopeful the budgets to follow meet expectations.

An idea was raised to mark budget pages and other reports with a letter, number, or ID to make them easier to locate. That way when someone sees an item in question everyone can locate the page quickly and follow along. This would reduce confusion and keep the meeting on topic.

Rescue requested a meeting with the Budget Committee over the upcoming petition item for a new ambulance as the Fire Department had. It was felt that this could be done during warrant or budget review since the item is going to be on the  Ballot anyway. In the case of the Fire Department they were looking for Budget Committee’s opinion to see if the they should request to have it put on the ballot.

There was some inquiry to eligibility for Health Insurance for the Town…. Laura Bragg said, Be an employee and work 32hrs week.

Meeting ran approximately 1 1/2 hrs

The Lebanon online video archive is available Here. Here you will find all of the Selectmen and Budget Committee meetings.

Watch 01-27-10 Lebanon Maine Budget Committee in News |  View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

Selectmen Chair Bob Frizzell, Selectmen Jason Cole, Selectmen Ronal Patch

arrived at 8:55am meeting was already in session. Town warrants all signed. Selectmen went in executive session for personel matter at 9:00am and were done at 9:05am, Selectmen  stayed in executive session with Fire Chief Skip Wood from 9:05 until 9:42am.

Selectmen Secretary Sue Collins talked about tax issues with east Lebanon auto sales. possibly totaling $16-17,000. Zeke called in to discuss other matters about this business including contaminated soil and no septic system (possible illegal system) for garage part. A new system being installed but legal matters still ongoing.

Brief from town Attorney Alan Shepard on a court case involving Ron Wright from Indian Lake Shores over illegal cutting of trees by water. Landowner lost case in court and is possibly appealing decision. Tree cutter cleared by town from charges by helping town against resident. Selectmen Patch said $5,000 fine to wright.

Discussion with Town Clerk Laura Bragg on closure of part of Upper Barley Road. Road closed in 1938 by town vote but town attorney to decifer terms of vote. A court case is pending on matter. judge waiting on decision.

Selectmen Secretary Sue Collins provided budgets for 9-1-1, EMA, and Library. She made copies for selectmen and plan is to be discussed at next weeks selectmen meeting.

Excise Tax Collector Christine Torno spoke about about copiers. No contact provided from Steve Endsley.  Mrs Torno bought another copier and is waiting to see what Steve Endsley will  do with old ones.  Mrs. Torno also talked about buying laminating machine to make revenue.

Meeting ended Approx 10:17 am