June 24, 2019

SWANTON VILLAGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

SWANTON VILLAGE MUNICIPAL COMPLEX

120 FIRST STREET

SWANTON, VT 05488

 

 

 

REGULAR MEETING

Monday, June 24, 2019

7:00 PM

 

 

 

PRESENT: Neal Speer, Village President; Chris Leach, Trustee; Eugene LaBombard, Trustee; Adam Paxman, Trustee; Reginald Beliveau Jr., Village Manager; Dianne Day, Village Clerk; Wayne Elliott, Aldrich & Elliott; and Ch. 16.

 

Unless otherwise noted, all motions carried unanimously.

 

1. Call to Order:

 

Neal Speer, Village President, welcomed all to the Regular Board of Trustees meeting and called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m.

 

2. Agenda Review:

 

Adam Paxman said he would like to add a Fire Chief Update to the agenda before Any Other Necessary Business.

3. Public Comment:

 

Dianne Day, Village Clerk, read the following Swanton Arts Council update: Swanton’s Art Walls serve as an open canvas for local artists to create in a public forum, uniting the arts and the community. Scott Rheaume, President of the Swanton Arts Council (SAC) began this creative endeavor with the support and assistance of the SAC in 2015. He researched how open public canvases could be installed throughout our town. He met and received approval from the Village Trustees, Town Select Board, Development Review Board and Zoning Administrators.

These art walls are open to the public!

• Anyone can create artwork on these walls
• Permission is not needed; just the desire to create
• Offensive themes and advertisements will be removed
• To comply with Vermont billboard laws words must be limited or may be removed. Boards should be used for artwork, not messages.
• If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact us at swantonartscouncil@gmail.com
• If possible, please tag the SAC on Facebook with a picture of your artwork.
• Artists please note that your creation may be painted over at any time.

Art Walls are located:

• On First Street, in front of the Swanton Village Complex
• On Route 7, by John’s Bridge
• On Canada Street, in front of Salon Elixir
• On Fourth Street, by the Central School

4. Approve and Accept Minutes from Monday, June 10, 2019 Meeting:

 

Adam Paxman made the motion to approve and accept Minutes from the Monday, June 10, 2019 meeting as presented. Eugene LaBombard seconded. Discussion: None.  Motion carried.

 

5. Approve and Accept Village Warrants through Friday, June 21, 2019:

 

Eugene LaBombard made the motion to approve and accept Village Warrants through Friday, June 21, 2019 as presented. Chris Leach seconded. Discussion: None. Motion carried.

 

6. Merchants Row Lighting:

 

Reg Beliveau stated that Duane Couture, Electric Foreman, received a quote from Rainville’s Electric for lighting under the canopy at Merchants Row. He said the quote is for $2852.43 and that includes 10 light fixtures and all the necessary parts to set them up. He stated these lights will come on at the same time the street lights do each night. Chris Leach asked if any of the Merchants there have offered to help with the cost of these lights. Reg stated no they have not. Neal Speer stated the Merchants have maintained the Village’s sidewalk there for the last several years so he feels the Village should install the lighting at their expense. Chris Leach made the motion to authorize the Village of Swanton to purchase lighting for Merchants Row at a cost of $2852.43. Eugene LaBombard seconded. Discussion: Chris Leach asked how soon these would be installed and Reg stated it would be done this summer. Motion carried.

 

7. Review and Sign Engineering Evaluation for Waste Water Treatment Facility:

 

Wayne Elliott was present for this discussion. He stated the Waste Water Treatment Facility needs to implement changes in order to lower their phosphorus output, which is mandated by the State of Vermont. He also said the waste water plant is over 20 years old and the State is requiring an engineering evaluation report to be completed by January 31, 2019. He said the State Revolving Loan programs offered at this time require that the Village only pay 50% of the cost for this loan. He said the funding application is requesting $41,700 to complete this engineering evaluation report and phosphorus reduction plan. Wayne said fortunately the Village completed an asset management program and said they will be able to use that and save the Village money by doing so. He also said there are other nearby communities that are having to deal with these same issues but also have to fix their storm water issues as well. He said the Village has a very unique waste water plant and hopefully they will be able to come up with a feasible solution to reduce the phosphorus levels.

 

Adam Paxman made the motion to authorize the Village of Swanton to apply for a Step 1 Clean Water Loan through the State Revolving Loan Program for $41,700 for their wastewater evaluation (20 year) and evaluation of phosphorus upgrade alternatives. Eugene LaBombard seconded. Motion carried. Chris Leach made the motion to authorize Reg Beliveau, Village Manager, to sign the Engineering Agreement between the Village of Swanton and Aldrich & Elliott for their engineering evaluation report. Adam Paxman seconded. Motion carried.

 

8. Fire Chief Update:

 

Adam Paxman stated that Fire Chief Tim Girard will not be seeking re-election. He said Deputy Chief Jason Butler has submitted a letter of interest in becoming the next Fire Chief. Adam said he is very qualified and he would accept his letter. Chris Leach asked if he had the support of the other firefighters and Adam said he does. Eugene LaBombard made the motion to appoint Jason Butler as Fire Chief effective July 31, 2019. Adam Paxman seconded. Motion carried. Discussion: The Board realized that the firefighters will vote on their next Fire Chief and after that is completed this will come to the Board submitting their choice for fire chief. It’s at that time that the Board will appoint their newly elected fire chief. The Board rescinds their motion and states they acknowledge receipt of Jason Butler’s letter of interest.

 

9. Any Other Necessary Business:

 

Chris Leach stated he would like to give serious consideration to lowering the speed limit on certain streets throughout the Village. Dianne Day, Village Clerk, informed him she found a draft ordinance that addresses this topic. The entire Board agrees with Chris and stated they would look further into this, would identify streets they want listed in the Ordinance and talk with the Police Chief to make sure this could be enforced.

 

Any Other Business: Adam Paxman said the Fire Department’s new ladder truck will be here in 2-3 weeks. He said their old one is being sold and headed to Arkansas on Thursday of this week. Adam also mentioned the upcoming 10^th Annual Swanton Car Show to be held on Saturday, July 27^th from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the Village Park hosted by the Swanton Chamber of Commerce. He said this year they are a Super Wheels Qualifier presented by Cruisin’ New England Productions.

 

Any Other Business: Eugene LaBombard just wanted to confirm that the multi board meeting is still being held on July 10^th at the Village Complex at 7 p.m. Reg stated yes it is as far as he knows it hasn’t been changed. He also asked if the Village was in need of a fire/building inspector to check some of the abandoned buildings in the Village. Reg stated the State has county inspectors and they can use them if necessary. He said they should start talking about this issue again. Eugene also asked if there were going to be any fireworks this year. Adam stated the Town will be having fireworks after the Arts Spectacular Show on September 7^th.

 

Any Other Business: Reg Beliveau stated Lynn Paradis, Assistant Village Manager, has prepared the Village’s Financial Management Questionnaire. Adam Paxman made the motion to accept the Village of Swanton’s Financial Management Questionnaire as presented. Eugene LaBombard seconded. Motion carried.

 

Any Other Business: Reg Beliveau stated the Village is interested in purchasing a second hand electric vehicle for their meter reader. He said this is like a glorified golf cart, has two new batteries and is for sale for $5000. He said they could use this for their meter reading in the Village and would be environmentally friendly. The Board was ok with this purchase. Reg also informed the Board that the NEPPA Conference will be held on August 18-21^st and he needs to know from them who is going, etc.

 

10. Executive Session to Discuss Real Estate:

 

Adam Paxman made a motion, seconded by Eugene LaBombard, to go into executive session at 8:09 p.m. to discuss Real Estate.  Motion carried.

 

Chris Leach made the motion to exit Executive Session at 8:43 p.m., seconded by Eugene LaBombard. Motion carried.

 

ACTION TAKEN: None.

 

11. Adjournment:

 

Eugene LaBombard made the motion to adjourn the Regular Board of the Trustees meeting at 8:43 p.m.  Adam Paxman seconded. There being no further business at hand, Neal Speer, Village President, adjourned the meeting at 8:43 p.m. Motion carried.

 

 

 

 

_____________________________________             _______________________________________

Neal Speer, Village President                            Date

 

 

 

 

_____________________________________    ___________________________________

Dianne Day, Village Clerk                                Date

 

 

 

June 10, 2019

SWANTON VILLAGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

SWANTON VILLAGE MUNICIPAL COMPLEX

120 FIRST STREET

SWANTON, VT 05488

 

 

 

REGULAR MEETING

Monday, June 10, 2019

7:00 PM

 

 

 

PRESENT: Neal Speer, Village President; Chris Leach, Trustee; Eugene LaBombard, Trustee; Adam Paxman, Trustee; Reginald Beliveau Jr., Village Manager; Dianne Day, Village Clerk; Joey Stell, Chief of Police; Elisabeth Nance, Economic Development Coordinator; and Ch. 16.

 

Unless otherwise noted, all motions carried unanimously.

 

1.      Call to Order:

 

Neal Speer, Village President, welcomed all to the Regular Board of Trustees meeting and called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

 

2.      Agenda Review:

 

None.

3. Public Comment:

 

None.

 

4. Approve and Accept Minutes from Wednesday, May 15, 2019 Meeting:

 

Chris Leach made the motion to approve and accept Minutes from the Wednesday, May 15, 2019 meeting. Adam Paxman seconded. Discussion: Chris Leach asked if the Police Department received their drone yet. Reg Beliveau stated yes they have and the Town has authorized to contribute $2000 from the Emergency Management Funds. Chris also wanted to remind the Public Works crew to stencil the SLOW sign on Gallup Court. Motion carried.

 

5. Approve and Accept Village Warrants through Friday, June 7, 2019:

 

Adam Paxman made the motion to approve and accept Village Warrants through Friday, June 7, 2019 as presented. Eugene LaBombard seconded. Discussion: None. Motion carried.

 

6. Swanton Village Police Department Update:

 

Chief Joey Stell handed out statistics for May 2019 for the Board to review. He stated the Village Police have partnered with the Department of Agriculture to hand out free creemees called “Creemee from a Cop.” He said these can be redeemed at the new ice cream stand at Ste. Marie’s Market, at Maple City Candy and at Devon’s. He said they plan on handing these out to area children. Chief Stell said the total incidents for the month of May totaled 136 calls for service. He said they handed out 39 motor vehicle warnings and issued 17 traffic violations totaling $3218.00. Neal Speer asked what Entertainment Picture Visible meant. Chief Stell said that is where a vehicle has a TV or video playing in the front seat. He said this could distract the driver. Chris Leach asked if they had an issue with vehicles with tinted windows. Chief Stell said yes they do occasionally but now a driver can get a doctor’s note stating they need tinted windows and said they are easy to get. Chris Leach asked if the Village can lower speed limits on certain streets to 25 miles per hour (mph)? Chief Stell said they could except for on Grand Avenue, First Street and Spring Street. He said other than those streets the Board can lower the speed limit to 25 mph if they so choose. Reg Beliveau stated he thought all streets need to be the same speed limit. Chief Stell said except for Spring Street, Canada Street and Grand Avenue their speed study shows vehicles are driving under 25 mph. Adam Paxman urged the residents to contact them if they had any other ideas to help with this issue. Chris Leach asked if they are seeing less vandalism. Chief Stell stated because of the extra patrols they’ve done vandalism is down. He said burglaries are also on the down side. He said right now most of their complaints are nuisance calls. Neal Speer asked about the homeless situation. Chief Stell stated they have about four individuals they keep chasing out of different places and have issued them trespassing orders for Village owned properties. The Board thanked Chief Stell for his update.

 

 

7. Economic Development Coordinator Request Letter of Support for Scoping Study Grant:

 

Elisabeth Nance, Economic Development Coordinator, stated she needed a Letter of Support from the Board of Trustees for the scoping study for the 2019 Bicycle and Pedestrian Program. She said this study could cost approximately $20,000 to $30,000 and the Village would need to contribute 20% of that. Chris Leach stated he would like a comprehensive definition of the scope because it’s too general and needs to address the 1800 tractor trailer trucks going the Village each day. He said if they had a bypass most of the congestion would be gone. Elisabeth stated studies show that if a bypass goes in that also gets rid of cars and they need to give them a reason to stop and feel comfortable to stop. She said they need to get people involved in the process and address their issues. Adam Paxman mentioned the AARP study that was done last year and where residents filled out a form with what they would like to see downtown. Elisabeth said they will be using that information as well. She said that study did prove the crosswalk at the north end of the park is too long. Eugene LaBombard stated that when the hay bales were at the end of the park he and his wife could not see past them while trying to pull out by the park. He said he couldn’t see well enough walking there too and said the traffic flow needs to be looked at. He said there are too many points of access. Reg Beliveau stated that when the Agency of Transportation did their paving project downtown a couple of years ago they were able to add some additional parking spaces downtown even though they had to eliminate some by the crosswalks because of safety standards. He said Mark Fenton is coming back this week looking for more ideas. Chris Leach stated there should be no restrictions even if that means looking at the Village Green and maybe splitting it. He said he realized that may not be popular but it should be looked at. Neal Speer stated when you need public input they don’t come out. He said they come out after something is done to complain about it. Elisabeth said she is hoping to change that and had about 10 to 15 people at their last hearing. Eugene LaBombard asked where they are going to get the money for this study. Elisabeth said she is hoping it’s added to next year’s budget. She said the grant will be awarded this year but done next year. Adam Paxman made the motion to authorize Village Manager Reg Beliveau to sign the Letter of Support for the Scoping Study Grant as presented. Eugene LaBombard seconded. Motion carried.

 

8. Water Allocation Connection Request for 224 Maquam Shore:

 

Adam Paxman made the motion to enter into Water Commissioner’s meeting at 7:42 p.m. Eugene LaBombard seconded. Motion carried.

 

Eugene LaBombard made the motion to approve Julien and Georgia Cummings’ request to connect to the Village of Swanton’s water system at 224 Maquam Shore Road and to approve a water allocation of 400 gallons per day as requested. Adam Paxman seconded. Motion carried.

 

Chris Leach made the motion to exit Water Commissioner’s meeting at 7:44 p.m. and to re-enter Open Session. Adam Paxman seconded. Motion carried.

 

9. Sign Fire Department Ladder Truck Loan Documents:

 

Adam Paxman made the motion for the Board of Trustees to sign all loan documents pertaining to the ladder truck as presented. Chris Leach seconded. Motion carried.

 

10. Review and Sign Fire Department Truck Bond Documents:

 

Eugene LaBombard made the motion for the Board of Trustees to sign all bond documents pertaining to the Fire Department trucks as presented. Adam Paxman seconded. Motion carried.

 

11. VPPSA Purchase Power Authorization:

 

Reg Beliveau explained to the Board that VPPSA is offering their 2019 Planned Purchase Recommendations to offset the Village of Swanton’s purchase power cost. Chris Leach made the motion to authorize Village Manager Reg Beliveau to sign the VPPSA 2019 Planned Purchase Recommendations memo as presented. Adam Paxman seconded. Motion carried.

 

12. Any Other Necessary Business:

 

Chris Leach stated he would like to give kudos to Adam Paxman for the flag display in the park. Adam Paxman said he would like to thank David Jescavage, Town Administrator, for implementing this idea. Chris also stated due to their earlier discussion he would like to propose looking at Village streets and lowering the speed limit on all dead end streets.

 

Any Other Business: Adam Paxman stated he would like to thank everyone for coming out for the Memorial Day Parade this year. He said he was grateful there was no rain. He said they are looking for volunteers so if you are interested in helping with the parade you can contact him.

 

Any Other Business: Eugene LaBombard stated he sees the Public Works crew working on pot holes and doing some paving. He said it looks real good. He said the school vote is being held Tuesday, June 11^th at the Village Complex.

 

Any Other Business: Reg Beliveau stated that the Village is part of the Northeast Public Power Association (NEPPA) and said each year they run a Benevolent Fund Donation Campaign to help public power employees, or their families, undergoing financial difficulties due to personal injury, illness or death. He asked the Board of Trustees if they would like to donate this year. Chris Leach made the motion to authorize the Village of Swanton to donate $100 to the NEPPA Benevolent Fund Donation Campaign. Eugene LaBombard seconded. Motion carried.

 

Any Other Business: Reg Beliveau stated the Vermont Rural Water Association recognizes and thanks the Village of Swanton for twenty years of continuous membership in their association. He said this was awarded to the Village on May 9, 2019.

 

13. Executive Session to Discuss Real Estate, Customer Accounts and Personnel:

 

Adam Paxman made a motion, seconded by Eugene LaBombard, to go into executive session at 8:05 p.m. to discuss Real Estate, Customer Accounts and Personnel.  Motion carried.

 

Adam Paxman made the motion to exit Executive Session at 8:23 p.m., seconded by Eugene LaBombard and to re-enter Open Session. Motion carried.

 

ACTION TAKEN: Adam Paxman made the motion to authorize the Village of Swanton to write off $3964.47 in the Electric Department. Eugene LaBombard seconded. Motion carried.

 

Adam Paxman made the motion to re-enter Executive Session at 8:25 p.m., seconded by Eugene LaBombard. Motion carried.

 

Chris Leach made the motion to exit Executive Session at 9:50 p.m. and re-enter Open Session, seconded by Adam Paxman. Motion carried.

 

ACTION TAKEN: Adam Paxman made the motion to authorize the Village of Swanton to purchase a used cruiser in the amount of $24,000 for the Police Department, to be taken from the equipment replacement fund. Eugene LaBombard seconded. Motion carried.

 

Adam Paxman made the motion to approve the Village of Swanton to move forward with a study of the Village Complex improvements, not to exceed $18,000, to be taken from the general fund savings account. Chris Leach seconded. Motion carried.

 

14. Adjournment:

 

Adam Paxman made the motion to adjourn the Regular Board of the Trustees meeting at 9:55 p.m.  Eugene LaBombard seconded. There being no further business at hand, Neal Speer, Village President, adjourned the meeting at 9:55 p.m. Motion carried.

 

 

 

 

_____________________________________          _______________________________________

Neal Speer, Village President                           Date

 

 

 

 

_____________________________________          ___________________________________

Dianne Day, Village Clerk                               Date

 

 

 

May 15, 2019

SWANTON VILLAGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

SWANTON VILLAGE MUNICIPAL COMPLEX

120 FIRST STREET

SWANTON, VT 05488

 

 

 

REGULAR MEETING

Wednesday, May 15, 2019

7:00 PM

 

 

 

PRESENT: Neal Speer, Village President; Chris Leach, Trustee; Adam Paxman, Trustee; Reginald Beliveau Jr., Village Manager; Dianne Day, Village Clerk; Sgt. Chad Parah, Swanton Village Police Department; and Ch. 16.

 

Unless otherwise noted, all motions carried unanimously.

 

1.      Call to Order:

 

Neal Speer, Village President, welcomed all to the Regular Board of Trustees meeting and called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

 

2.      Agenda Review:

 

Reg Beliveau, Village Manager, stated he needed to add Contracts and Real Estate to the Executive Session.

3. Public Comment:

 

None.

 

4. Approve and Accept Minutes from Monday, April 8, 2019 Minutes:

 

Chris Leach made the motion to approve and accept Minutes from the Monday, April 8, 2019 meeting. Adam Paxman seconded. Discussion: Adam Paxman asked if the coin drop schedule was posted. Dianne Day, Village Clerk, stated it was posted on Facebook and the Village’s website. Motion carried.

 

5. Approve and Accept Village Warrants through Friday, May 10, 2019:

 

Adam Paxman made the motion to approve and accept Village Warrants through Friday, May 10, 2019 as presented. Chris Leach seconded. Discussion: Chris Leach asked about the payment made to Santander. Reg Beliveau stated he believed that was for the Police Department’s new cruiser lease. Motion carried.

 

6. Review 1^st Quarter SQRP Report:

 

Chris Leach stated he would like to thank the Village staff for another great report tracking how well the Village provides electric service to their customers. He said these numbers far exceed the average and he’d like it noted that the Board has reviewed this 1^st quarter SQRP report.

 

7. Swanton Village Police Department Update:

 

Sgt. Chad Parah was present for this update. He stated the Police Department responded to 109 calls for service in the Village for the month of April 2019. He said they issued 18 warnings and wrote 5 tickets totaling $840.00. Adam Paxman asked if this was the same report that the Town of Swanton Selectboard gets and he said yes it is. Chris Leach asked if the police were seeing any certain trends. Sgt. Parah said their calls have been consistent and now that the warmer weather is getting here their calls will increase. Chris Leach asked if the 4 wheeler traffic has increased. Sgt. Parah said every now and then but said it is more in the Town of Swanton. Chris also asked about mutual aid and Sgt. Parah said they help VSP, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office and occasionally the St. Albans City Police Department. Reg Beliveau stated this bodes well for the department that they offer assistance to other agencies. Sgt. Parah said they also assist the Fire Department, Missisquoi Valley Rescue, the Sheriff’s office, and DCF. He said the Border Patrol often helps them out as well.

 

Sgt. Parah stated he is also here tonight to propose the Police Department purchasing a UAS drone. He said he has received his FAA certification as a UAS Pilot. He provided the Board with a UAS Proposal with the following information:

What is a UAS?

·         The FAA Classifies a UAS as a Unmanned Aircraft System

·         Operated remotely from ground to 400 feet AGL (Above Ground Level)

·         Wirelessly transmits data via video signal back to pilot on the ground

 

Why do we need a UAS?

·         First and foremost to preserve human life

·         Aid in natural or manmade disasters

·         Assist in search and rescue operations

·         Assist in firefighting operations

·         Assist in infrastructure inspection (dams, bridges, power lines)

·         Accomplish task faster, more efficiently, at a lower cost and in many cases more safely than previously before.

 

Types of Incidents where a UAS would be deployed

·         First responder safety/accountability

·         Missing persons

·         Fire

·         Possible suicide or barricaded subject

·         K9 Tracks

·         Crowd safety

·         Bomb threats or acts of domestic terrorism

·         Train derailment

·         Semi-Truck crash – fly in ahead of first responders to inspect hazmat placard or thermal inspection for leaks

·         Fuel and/or chemical spills at Industrial Park

·         Boating/ice rescue

·         Airplane crashes

·         Documenting crime/crash scenes

 

Features of UAS requested

·         FLIR Thermal imaging camera and optical camera (streaming and recording capability)

·         1080P video feed with a maximum transmission range of 5 miles

·         Attachable speaker, spotlight & beacon modules

·         Self heating battery system for cold weather

·         All direction obstacle sensing

·         Password protection for data security

·         Up to 31 minutes of flight time

·         Hover to 44 mph

 

Costs of the UAS

·         Initial FAA certification for UAS Pilot – Already acquired

·         UAS Package -- $2949.00

·         Each additional battery -- $169 per battery, should have at least 3 total

·         Tablet for viewing cameras and controlling UAS – iPad $329 per Apple

·         Insurance: Covered under VLCT Umbrella Policy

·         Additional Training for Pilot – PD Training Budget

·         Parts and maintenance for UAS – PD Equipment budget

 

Amount requested from the capital equipment fund for the UAS program is $4000. The Board thought this was a great idea for the police department. Chris Leach made the motion to authorize the Village Police Department to purchase a UAS system costing up to $4000.00. Adam Paxman seconded. Motion carried.

 

8. Any Other Necessary Business:

 

Chris Leach asked Reg Beliveau for a NEPPA update. Reg stated that it was a good session and said they had in-depth discussion regarding mutual aid. He also informed the Board that there is a bill before the Governor now waiting to be signed regarding distribution generation and the Village getting their 100% renewable energy status back.

 

Any Other Business: Chris Leach stated the public’s work crew has been doing a great job cleaning the streets and he said it’s obvious they take pride in their work. He also asked Reg if the “SLOW” stencil could be repainted on Gallup Court to help slow traffic down.

 

Any Other Business: Adam Paxman stated he wanted to remind everyone about the upcoming Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 27^th. He urged everyone to stop by the Village Green to check out the flag display they started this year thanks to David Jescavage, Town Administrator. Adam also stated Efficiency Vermont is doing free energy audits for homes and businesses. Reg stated they will have a zero energy mobile home on display sometime this summer in the Village Green. Adam also wanted to remind the Village of Swanton customers to not use Doxo when paying their bills online, he said to go through the Village’s website and use Invoice Cloud free of charge.

 

Any Other Business: Adam Paxman stated the Fire Department will be selling their ladder truck in two to four weeks and said the department is doing training on their new tanker truck. He said they still need a compressor and he is hoping the sale of the vehicles will be used for that purchase. He said as of right now they are $3000 short.

 

Any Other Business: Reg Beliveau stated the Village had their FERC visit today at the Hydro Plant and said it went very well. He said Scott Mueller has put a lot of work into creating a book on Dam Safety and Monitoring as well as their EAP. He said this way there should be no confusion in an emergency situation. Discussion took place regarding the re-licensing of the hydro plant and they discussed issues other utilities are having. Reg said Swanton Village, Enosburg and Sheldon Springs are all working on re-licensing and the Village is working together with Enosburg on documents, etc. Reg said the Village has submitted their Notice of Intent; Pre-Application Document and Request to Use Traditional Licensing Process.

 

Any Other Business: Reg Beliveau stated that Elisabeth Nance, Economic Development Coordinator, is back at work part time and said she is requesting permission to apply for the 2019 VTrans Bike Ped Grant Program to do a scoping study for the downtown parking area as well as the intersection of Canada Street and Route 78. A study was done in 2001 but given the amount of time that has passed another study needs to be done. The Board agreed to have her go ahead and apply for this grant. The Board also discussed the lighting on Merchants Row and Reg said Duane has been working on this and said he would get this back on his agenda. The Board stated they would like to see this being worked on.

 

9. Executive Session to Discuss Personnel, Contracts and Real Estate:

 

Adam Paxman made a motion, seconded by Chris Leach, to go into executive session at 8:04 p.m. to discuss Personnel, Contracts and Real Estate.  Motion carried.

 

Adam Paxman made the motion to exit Executive Session at 8:58 p.m., seconded by Chris Leach. Motion carried.

 

ACTION TAKEN: None.

 

10. Adjournment:

 

Chris Leach made the motion to adjourn the Regular Board of the Trustees meeting at 8:58 p.m.  Adam Paxman seconded. There being no further business at hand, Neal Speer, Village President, adjourned the meeting at 8:58 p.m. Motion carried.

 

 

 

 

_____________________________________          _______________________________________

Neal Speer, Village President                           Date

 

 

 

 

_____________________________________          ___________________________________

Dianne Day, Village Clerk                               Date

 

 

 

April 8, 2019

SWANTON VILLAGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

SWANTON VILLAGE MUNICIPAL COMPLEX

120 FIRST STREET

SWANTON, VT 05488

 

 

 

REGULAR MEETING

Monday, April 8, 2019

7:00 PM

 

 

 

PRESENT: Neal Speer, Village President; Chris Leach, Trustee; Adam Paxman, Trustee; Eugene LaBombard, Trustee; Reginald Beliveau Jr., Village Manager; Dianne Day, Village Clerk; Karen Drennan, Selectwoman; and Ch. 16.

 

Unless otherwise noted, all motions carried unanimously.

 

1.      Call to Order:

 

Neal Speer, Village President, welcomed all to the Regular Board of Trustees meeting and called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

 

2.      Agenda Review:

 

None.

3. Public Comment:

 

None.

 

4. Approve and Accept Minutes from Monday, March 25, 2019 Minutes:

 

Chris Leach made the motion to approve and accept Minutes from the Monday, March 25, 2019 meeting. Adam Paxman seconded. Discussion: Chris Leach asked if there was an update on the new fire truck. Adam Paxman stated they ran into a couple of issues and the delivery has been delayed a little but will be on its way soon. Dianne Day, Village Clerk, updated the Board on the Swanton Public Library’s request to hold a Children’s Farmers Market during the summer. Caleb Rupp informed her that they would hold this once per month in July, August and September on the Library lawn. The Board was fine with this. Motion carried.

 

5. Approve and Accept Village Warrants through Friday, April 5, 2019:

 

Eugene LaBombard made the motion to approve and accept Village Warrants through Friday, April 5, 2019. Adam Paxman seconded. Discussion: Chris Leach asked about the payment made to Environmental Resource Association for $858.85 and the payment made to VPPSA for $205,190.98. Motion carried.

 

6. Discuss and Sign Grant Resolution for Highgate Airport Waterline Project:

 

Reg Beliveau informed the Board that the Grant Agreement Resolution for the waterline at the Highgate Airport was ready for them to sign. Eugene LaBombard made the motion to sign the Grant Agreement Resolution for funding under the Vermont Community Development Program (VCDP) and for the Town of Highgate to serve as the Lead Grantee and that Heidi Britch-Valenta, Town Administrator, be designated as the Authorizing Official to execute the Grant Agreement and other such documents as may be necessary to secure these funds. Chris Leach seconded. Motion carried.

 

7. Any Other Necessary Business:

 

Adam Paxman stated the Efficiency VT program will now be offering free energy audits to home businesses in the area. He said if you are interested in this program to contact him and he will put you on the sign-up sheet. Reg Beliveau said they may begin doing energy audits of homes in May. He also said Efficiency VT will display one of their Zero Energy Mobile Homes this summer in the Village Park. He said these mobile homes are run entirely on solar power. Chris Leach asked if any local contractors were on the list for the construction part of these energy jobs. He said he has heard complaints that they were not and this is concerning to him. He said he wants to know how much of the money the Village pays to Efficiency VT is coming back to our ratepayers. He said he’s done some research and can see that some employees of Efficiency VT are earning a three figure salary and this bothers him. He said he wants that information provided to the Village of Swanton.

 

Any Other Business: Adam Paxman stated the Chief of Police emailed him an update on the department and also said he will be on the agenda for the first meeting of the Trustees for the next three months. He said Officer Gagne and the K-9’s first round of training is complete. He also said the police department is delivering Meals on Wheels to area residents on Tuesdays of each week. He said they are seeing an increase in speeding complaints and are targeting problem areas. The Chief also said they are planning National Night Out this year which will be held on the first Tuesday in August. He said the police department worked with NMC and helped train school staff on bleeding control.

 

Any Other Business: Adam Paxman stated he would like to see our Coin Drop schedule posted on the Village website and on Facebook. He also said the Chamber of Commerce will hold another Easter Egg Hunt on April 20^th for kids ages 0-11 at 9 a.m. He said he wants to thank Franklin Grand Isle Community Action (CVOEO) for the gracious donation of eggs this year.

 

Any Other Business: Adam Paxman read the following update from the Swanton Arts Council: In March we participated in the National Youth Art Month, by holding our Fourth Annual Youth Art Show. This year we had over 250 pieces of local student art work. We also had participants from students outside of the Franklin Northwest Supervisory Union district. On April 6^th, our Spring Handmade Craft Show was held. A big thank you to community members who came out to support the more than 30 artisans and handcrafters in our annual Spring Craft Show. We expanded to 2 buildings and the show was well received. Special thanks to Holy Trinity Church and the United Methodist Church for hosting us. We are grateful to live in a community who supports creativity. In May we will announce the winner of the Emerging Artist Award. We had more participants competing this year. Some SAC members plan to participate in the 26^th Annual Art on the Refuge show hosted by Friends of Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge beginning May 17, 2019, the day before World Migratory Bird Day. Please come to the refuge on May 17^th at 5:30 p.m. to support local artist. The art display will be showcased through July 19^th. SAC meetings are held on the first Monday of each month at the Swanton House of Pizza. All are welcome.

 

Any Other Business: Adam Paxman stated the Memorial Day Parade committee is starting a “Sponsor A Flag” event where an individual can honor a U.S. Military Veteran from any branch of the military either living or deceased by sponsoring a 3’x5’ quality American flag (made in the USA) displayed on a 9’ tall pole. Each pole will have a laminated 3”x5” card attached to it displaying the name, rank and branch of service of the veteran and another laminated 3”x5” card displaying the name and town of the sponsor(s). The flags will be displayed on the north end of the Village Park for several days during the Memorial Day weekend. They will be arranged in rows like a military formation. Each flag and pole will have a number that corresponds to the sponsor and future display on each subsequent Memorial Day. All U.S. veterans from Swanton and northwestern Vermont may be honored with a flag sponsorship for a one-time fee of $50. If you would like to sponsor a flag for a veteran, please visit the Town of Swanton’s website for a sponsor form or stop by the Town office.

 

Any Other Business: Chris Leach stated the ice rink the Village park was a great success and he hopes they do it again next year. He also asked if any progress has been made on the lighting issue at Merchants Row. Reg Beliveau stated this kind of fell off the radar but said he would talk with Duane Couture and get the ball rolling again on this issue. Neal Speer stated it is very dark over there and suggested the lights on the front of the building have goosenecks added to them.

 

Any Other Business: Chris Leach said the hydro plant didn’t have to deflate the dam too much lately but said he was concerned about how high the VPPSA bill was for purchase power. Eugene LaBombard stated he hasn’t seen a report lately on the generation numbers and asked if that was something they could get from Scott Mueller. Chris stated he is looking forward to the plant to start recouping some generation and to slow down rate increases for the Village of Swanton ratepayers.

 

Any Other Business: Eugene LaBombard stated he would like the Police Department to know that while walking through the Village on Saturday he saw 4 unregistered trail bikes driving around recklessly.

 

Any Other Business: Neal Speer stated he would like to recognize Betsy Fournier and Gordon and Debbie Winters for their efforts on keeping the Marble Mill project going. He said to stay tuned because there is movement going on. He said their next step is to hire a consultant and progress is being made. He said there will be public hearings in the near future.

 

Any Other Business: Reg Beliveau stated that Elisabeth Nance, Economic Development Coordinator, has created a “Spruce Up Day” to run the same day as Green Up Day (May 4, 2019). She said Hank Lambert, Coordinator, will have a table set up at the Village Complex handing out leaf bags and work gloves. She said David Turner, manager of Sticks and Stuff and Gordon Winters, owner of Ace Hardware have donated the bags and the gloves. She said this Spruce Up Day is a way of encouraging residents to take pride in their properties and spruce them up. He also informed the Board that she would like to hold their 2^nd Annual Swanton Community Wide Yard Sale on Saturday, May 18^th from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. with a rain date of Sunday, May 19^th  on the Village Green. Interested residents can email swantonyardsale@gmail.com to reserve their spot or for more information.

 

Any Other Business: Reg Beliveau informed the Board that the Village of Swanton ran a legal notice in the St. Albans Messenger for Request for Statements of Qualifications for Engineering Services for the Wastewater Treatment Facility to help with discharge goals and State requirements. He said he would keep the Board updated on this matter.

 

Any Other Business: Dianne Day, Village Clerk, informed the Board that John Brueckner from the Swanton Christian Church is requesting permission to hold their 5K Run for Jesus on Saturday, June 29 beginning on Academy Street and going down Route 7 for about 1.5 miles. He said he would like to have Academy Street closed for this event. The Board of Trustees approved this event.

 

Any Other Business: Reg Beliveau, Village Manager, wanted to inform our ratepayers that if they choose to search for the Village of Swanton’s website to pay their utility bill a payment company by the name of Doxo comes up first in the search. He demonstrated this on his laptop showing in detail what happens. He wanted ratepayers to know that if they go through the Village’s website, www.swanton.net, there is no fee to process their payment but if they use Doxo that company charges them a fee to do so. He wanted our ratepayers to know the Village of Swanton does not endorse using Doxo.

8. Executive Session to Discuss Real Estate:

 

Adam Paxman made a motion, seconded by Chris Leach, to go into executive session at 7:50 p.m. to discuss real estate, legal, contractual or personnel issues where premature general public knowledge of the subject matter would place the Village or person involved at a substantial disadvantage and it was further moved to enter into executive session to discuss real estate, legal, personnel or contractual issues under the provisions of Title 1, Section 313(a)(1) of the Vermont Statutes. Motion carried.

 

Adam Paxman made the motion to exit Executive Session at 8:30 p.m., seconded by Chris Leach. Motion carried.

 

ACTION TAKEN: None.

 

9. Adjournment:

 

Chris Leach made the motion to adjourn the Regular Board of the Trustees meeting at 8:30 p.m.  Adam Paxman seconded. There being no further business at hand, Neal Speer, Village President, adjourned the meeting at 8:30 p.m. Motion carried.

 

 

 

 

_____________________________________          _______________________________________

Neal Speer, Village President                           Date

 

 

 

 

_____________________________________          ___________________________________

Dianne Day, Village Clerk                               Date

 

 

 

March 25, 2019

SWANTON VILLAGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

SWANTON VILLAGE MUNICIPAL COMPLEX

120 FIRST STREET

SWANTON, VT 05488

 

 

 

REGULAR MEETING

Monday, March 25, 2019

7:00 PM

 

 

 

PRESENT: Chris Leach, Trustee; Adam Paxman, Trustee; Eugene LaBombard, Trustee; Lynn Paradis, Assistant Village Manager; Dianne Day, Village Clerk; Mark Rocheleau, Selectman; Karen Drennan, Selectwoman; and Ch. 16.

 

Unless otherwise noted, all motions carried unanimously.

 

1.      Call to Order:

 

Chris Leach, Village Trustee, welcomed all to the Regular Board of Trustees meeting and called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

 

2.      Agenda Review:

 

None.

3. Public Comment:

 

None.

 

4. Approve and Accept Minutes from Monday, March 11, 2019 Minutes:

 

Adam Paxman made the motion to approve and accept Minutes from the Monday, March 11, 2019 meeting. Eugene LaBombard seconded. Motion carried. Discussion: Chris Leach asked if we heard back from the Library regarding the Children’s Farmers Market. He also asked about the Town of Highgate’s VCDP Grant. Dianne Day, Village Clerk, stated she would contact the Library this week. Motion carried.

 

5. Approve and Accept Village Warrants through Friday, March 22, 2019:

 

Eugene LaBombard made the motion to approve and accept Village Warrants through Friday, March 22, 2019. Adam Paxman seconded. Discussion: None. Motion carried.

 

6. Discuss and Sign Annual Financial Plan for Village Highways:

 

Lynn Paradis, Assistant Village Manager, informed the Board that she is required to file with District #8 that the Village is spending more than they received from State Aid to maintain the Village streets. The report shows that the Village spends $115,500 on winter maintenance, $374,599 on general maintenance, $36,200 on sidewalks and $50,000 on construction and paving for a total of $576,299.Adam Paxman made the motion to certify that funds raised by municipal taxes are equivalent to or greater than a sum of at least $300 per mile for each mile of Class 1, 2 and 3 Village Highway in the municipality. Eugene LaBombard seconded. Motion carried.

 

7. Sign Bond Anticipation Note for Engine 3:

 

Adam Paxman stated the old Engine #3 has been sold and the new one will be here by April 6. He said the ladder truck may be here in May or June of this year. Lynn Paradis, Assistant Village Manager, stated the Board motioned for the Village to go with Peoples Trust for their bond anticipation note with an interest rate of 1.6%. She said she now how these loan documents and they need to be signed for the bank. Lynn stated the bond for the truck will be through the VT Municipal Bond Bank. Lynn stated the proceeds from selling the old Engine #3 will go into the equipment savings account fund for future purchases. The Board of Trustees signed the bond anticipation note for Peoples Trust Company.

 

8. Any Other Necessary Business:

 

Lynn Paradis informed the Board that at the Trustee’s last meeting they authorized Duane Couture to go ahead and order their new bucket truck for the electric department. She said she now has a purchase order to sign but Reg Beliveau is on vacation. Eugene LaBombard made the motion to authorize Lynn Paradis, Assistant Village Manager, to sign documents pertaining to the new bucket truck in Reg Beliveau’s absence. Adam Paxman seconded. Motion carried.

 

Any Other Business: Chris Leach stated the highway crew is doing a great job with the recent snow storms. He said all the tree trimming the Village has done has paid off during these storms as well. He said they have hardly any outages during these storms because of the trimming. Lynn stated they were called out this weekend but it was a Comcast line down. She also said the Village sent a crew to VT Electric Coop to help them out this weekend.

 

9. Executive Session to Discuss Real Estate:

 

Adam Paxman made a motion, seconded by Eugene LaBombard, to go into executive session at 7:20 p.m. to discuss real estate, legal, contractual or personnel issues where premature general public knowledge of the subject matter would place the Village or person involved at a substantial disadvantage and it was further moved to enter into executive session to discuss real estate, legal, personnel or contractual issues under the provisions of Title 1, Section 313(a)(1) of the Vermont Statutes.

 

Eugene LaBombard made the motion to exit Executive Session at 7:50 p.m., seconded by Adam Paxman.

 

ACTION TAKEN: None.

 

10. Adjournment:

 

Adam Paxman made the motion to adjourn the Regular Board of the Trustees meeting at 7:50 p.m.  Eugene LaBombard seconded. There being no further business at hand, Chris Leach, Village Trustee, adjourned the meeting at 7:50 p.m. Motion carried.

 

 

 

 

_____________________________________          _______________________________________

Neal Speer, Village President                           Date

 

 

 

 

_____________________________________          ___________________________________

Dianne Day, Village Clerk                               Date