November 26, 2018

SWANTON VILLAGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

SWANTON VILLAGE MUNICIPAL COMPLEX

120 FIRST STREET

SWANTON, VT 05488

 

 

 

REGULAR MEETING

Monday, November 26, 2018

7:00 PM

 

 

 

PRESENT: Neal Speer, Village President; Chris Leach, Trustee; Adam Paxman, Trustee; Eugene LaBombard, Trustee; Reginald Beliveau, Village Manager; Dianne Day, Village Clerk; Betsy Fournier, Liza Cominsky, Swanton Recreation; 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 p.m.

 

2.      Agenda Review:

 

Reg Beliveau, Village Manager, stated he would need an Executive Session to discuss personnel.

3.      Public Comment:

 

Betsy Fournier from Swanton Recreation introduced Liza Cominsky to the Board as the Recreation Department’s new program director. Betsy stated they were here tonight to ask permission to set up a skating rink in the Village Green. She said they have the lumber from the last one they had, which measures 90’x90’. She stated they would like to put it between the bandstand and the swan pond. She stated she feels it will be better utilized if it were in the Village Green and said she thought it would benefit local businesses as well. She said she would like to put in a few benches or picnic tables for people to put their skates on. She said she is asking for help from the Fire Department to fill it and help from Public Works to help with snow removal if they get a lot of snow. Reg Beliveau stated they used to have one in the park and it was located by Lady Liberty and the bandstand on the Church Street side of the park. Adam Paxman asked Betsy if she thought of putting it at Marble Mill. Betsy said she has but thought it would be better in the Village Green because it’s lit up and more flat. She said the park closes at 10 p.m. and they have a sign that list all the rules for the skating rink. Chris Leach suggested they check with the Fire Department and with Public Works beforehand to make sure they are ok with it. Chris Leach made the motion to authorize Swanton Recreation to place a skating rink in the Village Green and to coordinate with the Fire Department and Public Works Department for help with filling the rink and with cleaning the rink. He also made the motion to give Reg Beliveau authorization to move forward with this if everyone was on board. Adam Paxman seconded. Motion carried.

 

Betsy Fournier also stated that the other issue she is there for is the lack of a community space. She said the Recreation Department would like to utilize the Village auditorium but it’s at its maximum as well. She said they have a mixed martial arts class and they are struggling to find a location to hold the class. She said the Recreation Department wants to bring more fitness opportunities to Swanton and they need a space for these classes. She said she has checked with the schools and Nativity Parish Hall with no luck. Chris Leach asked how many people usually attend these classes. Betsy said they have 12 people that consistently attend their yoga class but said they served 900 adults and children last year. Dianne Day, Village Clerk, stated she would check the schedule for the auditorium and see if she could schedule a 6 week class for Thursday evenings.

 

Reg Beliveau, Village Manager, said he wanted to mention that Swanton Village was awarded two Gold Star awards in recognition of his leadership and innovation for wellness policies and practices in the workforce and in the community from RiseVT and NMC. He said it has been easy to say yes to them on different health programs and practices.

 

Public Comment: Elisabeth Nance, Economic Development Coordinator, stated it is getting close to budget time and she is requesting that Swanton Village budget $5000 for 2019 to be used for different grants she is applying for on behalf of the Village. She said most times there are grants available that require a match and sometimes “in kind” can be used but sometimes they need money for the grant. She also said USDA Rural Development would be attending their December 10^th meeting to discuss a loan program that is available to local businesses but the Village would be the coordinator of the loan. She said USDA would be on the hook if a loan was defaulted on not the Village. She said these funds must be used for economic development. Elisabeth also stated now that the Historic Preservation Committee ordinance increased its board members from 3 to 10 she has two community members who would like to be on the Board and they are Glen Gurwit and Fred Wiseman. Adam Paxman made the motion to name Fred Wiseman and Glen Gurwit board members of the Historic Preservation Committee. Eugene LaBombard seconded. Motion carried.

 

4.      Approve and Accept Minutes from the Monday, October 22, 2018 Regular Meeting:

 

Chris Leach made the motion to approve and accept the Minutes from Monday, October 22, 2018 as presented. Eugene LaBombard seconded. Discussion: Eugene LaBombard asked if Reg found out what the payment to Municipal Emergency Services was for. Reg stated that was for air packs purchased by the Fire Department. Chris Leach also stated that under Any Other Business Eugene LaBombard talked about having a separate line item on the Village Ballot for a new water line to be run under the river. He said this is a very important item and he supports it 100%. Reg Beliveau stated he would talk with the engineers about this proposal. Motion carried.

 

5.      Approve and Accept Village Warrants through Wednesday, November 21, 2018:

 

Adam Paxman made the motion to approve and accept Village Warrants through Wednesday, November 21, 2018 as presented. Eugene LaBombard seconded. Discussion: Chris Leach asked if any other tree services were used other than Gabrees Tree Service. Village Clerk Dianne Day stated occasionally they use another one for smaller jobs. Motion carried.

 

6.      VPPSA Project 10 Site Requests Water Allocation for 101 Lafar Road, Swanton:

 

Eugene LaBombard made the motion to enter into Water Commissioner’s meeting at 7:59 p.m. Adam Paxman seconded. Motion carried. Eugene LaBombard made the motion to approve VPPSA’s Project 10 Sites request for a water allocation of 30 gallons per day for the use of a bathroom and a sink at 101 Lafar Road. Adam Paxman seconded. Motion carried.

 

7.  Review and Adopt Sewer Ordinance:

 

Eugene LaBombard made the motion to approve and accept the Village of Swanton Sewer Ordinance as presented. Chris Leach seconded. Discussion: Village Clerk Dianne Day stated the State of Vermont reviewed the Ordinance and had some proposed changes which were added. Motion carried.

 

Adam Paxman made the motion to exit Water Commissioner’s meeting at 8:06 p.m. Eugene LaBombard seconded. Motion carried.

 

8.  Transco Subscription Agreement for the Purchase of 2018 Transco Member Units:

 

Eugene LaBombard made the motion to approve the equity purchase for Transco Member Units and also authorized Reg Beliveau, Village Manager, to purchase any leftover units is available. He also authorized Reg Beliveau to sign all necessary documents pertaining to the Transco Subscription Agreement to Purchase equity. Chris Leach seconded. Motion carried.

 

9.  Swanton Village Police Department Update:

 

Chief Stell informed the Board of how many traffic tickets and warnings were issued for the months of October and November 2018. He said they are still having trouble on Spring Street and Canada Street and that’s where they have focused on. Chris Leach asked how many calls per year they get. Chief Stell stated their calls are up by 2 to 4 % and said they received 2,000 calls for service. He said this does not include traffic stops. Chris also asked how the K-9 program was going and Chief Stell stated his first school starts in the spring but said their K-9 can already track ½ mile with 98% accuracy. Chris Leach asked if the drug problem has improved or worsened and Chief Stell said they have seen a decrease in heroin but an increase in crack cocaine use. He said the drug treatment program in Swanton seems to be helping the situation. The Board thanked Chief Stell for the update and told him to continue the good work.

 

10.  Any Other Necessary Business:

 

Adam Paxman said on behalf of the Swanton Chamber he would like to thank everyone that helped with Christmas in the Park, especially Lynn Billado and Mark Rocheleau for help with decorating. He said they had a great turnout in the park and a great turnout at the after party at the VFW. He said they raised $110 for the community food shelf.

 

Any Other Business: Adam Paxman stated he would like to see the Village bill taxpayers for times per year and said he would like to start this discussion and have this on the Village Ballot for March voting. Chris Leach suggested a pros and cons list be created and Reg stated he would discuss this with Lynn Paradis, Assistant Village Manager, and report back to the Board.

 

Any Other Business: Eugene LaBombard stated he appreciated what he saw on Channel 15 regarding all the great things going on in the Swanton Community and who is behind the scenes working on these programs and events. He said there is a lot of good work going on out there.

 

11.  Executive Session to Discuss Personnel:

 

Eugene LaBombard made the motion to enter into Executive Session at 8:30 p.m. to discuss personnel. Chris Leach seconded. Motion carried.

 

Chris Leach made the motion to exit Executive Session at 9:30 p.m. Eugene LaBombard seconded. Motion carried.

 

ACTION TAKEN: None.

 

12. Adjournment:

 

Adam Paxman made the motion to adjourn the Regular Board of Trustees meeting at 9:30 p.m. Chris Leach seconded. There being no further business at hand, Neal Speer, Village President, adjourned the meeting at 9:30 p.m. Motion carried.

 

 

 

 

 

_____________________________________          _______________________________________

Neal Speer, Village President                           Date

 

 

 

 

 

 

_____________________________________          ___________________________________

Dianne Day, Village Clerk                               Date

 

 

 

October 22, 2018

SWANTON VILLAGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

SWANTON VILLAGE MUNICIPAL COMPLEX

120 FIRST STREET

SWANTON, VT 05488

 

 

 

REGULAR MEETING

Monday, October 22, 2018

7:00 PM

 

 

 

PRESENT: Neal Speer, Village President; Chris Leach, Trustee; Adam Paxman, Trustee; Eugene LaBombard, Trustee; Reginald Beliveau, Village Manager; 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 p.m.

 

2.      Agenda Review:

 

Adam Paxman stated he would like to add Contracts to Executive Session.

3.      Public Comment:

 

Adam Paxman read aloud the Swanton Arts Council Update: The Swanton Arts Council would like to remind local artists that they can post their artist profiles on the SAC website at no charge. Additionally, a free workshop on “Creating Your Best Artist Statement” is being held at the My-T-Fine Restaurant on October 25^th. Any artist interested in either posting their profile or attending the workshop should contact the Swanton Arts Council at swantonartscouncil@gmail.com.

 

4.      Approve and Accept Minutes from the Monday, September 24, 2018 Regular Meeting:

 

Adam Paxman made the motion to approve and accept the Minutes from Monday, September 24, 2018 as presented. Chris Leach seconded. Discussion: None. Motion carried.

 

5.      Approve and Accept Village Warrants through Friday, October 19, 2018:

 

Adam Paxman made the motion to approve and accept Village Warrants through Friday, October 19, 2018 as presented. Chris Leach seconded. Discussion: Eugene LaBombard asked what the payment made to Municipal Emergency Services for $39,782.33 was for. Reg Beliveau stated he wasn’t sure and said he would have to look that one up. He thought that might be the cruiser lease payment. Adam Paxman asked about the payment made to Consolidated Electrical Distributors for $1,106.64. Reg said he would have to look that one up as well. Motion carried.

 

6.      Keith & Mary Prescott, 428 Maquam Shore Rd. and Martha & Pat Guarino, 432 Maquam Shore Rd., request permission to connect to the Bonk Water Line:

 

Eugene LaBombard made the motion to enter into Water Commissioner’s meeting to hear the following requests. Chris Leach seconded. Motion carried.

 

Neal Speer, Village President, read the following requests: Keith Prescott is requesting a water allocation for approximately 400 gallons per day for our single family seasonal camp at 428 Maquam Shore Road, Swanton. We have spoken with Bobby Bonk and have his approval to connect to his water line. We are also aware of the $1,500 cost to the Village of Swanton and the cost of the water meter package as well.

Thank you for your time and consideration. Martha and Pat Guarino are requesting a water allocation for approximately 400 gallons per day for our single family seasonal camp at 432 Maquam Shore Road, Swanton. We have spoken with Bobby Bonk and have his approval to connect to his water line. We are also aware of the $1,500 cost to the Village of Swanton and the cost of the water meter package as well.

 

Chris Leach made the motion to approve both water connection requests as presented, Keith and Mary Prescott at 428 Maquam Shore Rd. and Martha and Pat Guarino at 432 Maquam Shore Rd. Adam Paxman seconded. Motion carried.

 

 

Adam Paxman made the motion to exit Water Commissioner’s meeting. Chris Leach seconded. Motion carried.

 

         7. Discussion on VT Gas Systems Constructing a Pressure Regulation Station on the Beebe Rd:

 

Reg Beliveau, Village Manager, informed the Board that VT Gas Systems will be consolidating the two pressure regulation stations on Robinhood Drive into one pressure regulation station on the Beebe Road. He said this was just for notification because the Village of Swanton abuts their property. Chris Leach stated the Board acknowledges this application and has reviewed it.

 

8.  MVU Varsity Field Hockey Coin Drop Request for May 4, 2019:

 

Eugene LaBombard made the motion to approve MVU Varsity Field Hockey’s request to hold a coin drop on May 4, 2019 with a rain date of May 11, 2019. Chris Leach seconded. Discussion: Adam Paxman asked if this was funded by the MVU School budget and asked why they would be asking for more and only hitting Swanton not Franklin and Highgate. The Board agreed that these were good points and said they would address this at the informational meeting in March. Motion carried with two yays, one nay.

 

9.  Any Other Necessary Business:

 

Chris Leach asked what came of the traffic study that was done by Merchants Row. Reg Beliveau stated it definitely slowed the traffic down especially those coming up over the hill. Reg mentioned the vehicle that intentionally took out the hay bales with their vehicle and said the downtown area is videotaped and said they are investigating that incident. Chris Leach asked whose job it is to determine whether or not the traffic pattern needs to change. Adam stated a feasibility study would be next and said himself along with the Economic Development Coordinator are working on that. He said there is a meeting this coming Thursday that has to do with a Better Connections Grant. Reg said there were a lot of ideas that came from the drawings but they were discouraged from doing them by VTrans due to safety reasons. He said shortening the crosswalk by Cody’s restaurant worked well also. Chris Leach said it would behoove them if they had a Route 78 to I89 truck route bypass and that would help alleviate a lot of this traffic downtown. Chris Leach said if the Post Office had a drive thru postal box that would alleviate a lot of traffic as well. Chris also asked if the Hydro Plant was making significantly more power since the new rubber bag has been installed and Reg stated yes they are.

 

Any Other Business: Adam Paxman wanted to let everyone know that Christmas in the Park will be held on Saturday, November 24^th from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. and Halloween in the Park will be held Saturday, October 27 beginning at 5 p.m. He also asked if it was too late to consider putting fog lines on Canada Street. Reg said he would have to see what they have in the budget for paving and whether or not they could get that piece of equipment.

 

Any Other Business: Reg Beliveau asked the Board if they would be interested in having Ipads instead of getting emails and paper copies delivered to them at home. They all said no, they receive everything fine. He reminded them if there was a request for public records their home emails would be included in that. They were fine with that and said they like things the way they are now. Chris stated he wanted to thank the Public Works crew for the SLOW stencils on Gallup Court. He said one has gotten washed out a bit but said this has really made a difference and slowed people down. Reg said they are also working on the 30 MPH stencil for Spring Street.

 

Any Other Business: Eugene LaBombard stated he had a complaint about speeding on the County Road and asked Reg to pass that on to the Police Department. Eugene said it may even start on South River Street but said he would like this passed on to them.

 

Any Other Business: Neal stated he would like to thank the Town of Swanton for the work they’ve done on South River Street. He said they have cleaned the river bank up with their new brush hog and it looks great. He said you can now see around the curve and it has made a great difference and he thanks Kevin Lapan and his crew for the great job. Neal also said since it’s getting dark earlier now he’d like Reg to talk with Duane about the lights under the stores on Merchants Row. He said he can’t remember where they’re at with that but said they need some lights under there. Reg said the lights for the bridge just came in and said he would talk with Duane about this.

 

Any Other Business: Eugene LaBombard asked the Board what they would think about putting a separate line item on the ballot in March asking the voters if they would approve putting a new water line under the river. He said he remembers how close the Village came to losing their water line during the flooding in January and said this really should be done. He said they could get a ballpark figure from their engineer and have a spare line available and have this on the upcoming ballot. Reg said he would talk with Wayne Elliott about this.

 

 

 

 

10.  Executive Session to Discuss Customer Account:

 

Chris Leach made the motion to enter into Executive Session to discuss customer account. Adam Paxman seconded. Motion carried.

 

Adam Paxman made the motion to exit Executive Session at 8:35 p.m. Eugene LaBombard seconded. Motion carried.

 

 

11. Adjournment:

 

Chris Leach made the motion to adjourn the Regular Board of Trustees meeting at 8:35 p.m. Adam Paxman seconded. There being no further business at hand, Neal Speer, Village President, adjourned the meeting at 8:35 p.m. Motion carried.

 

 

 

 

 

_____________________________________          _______________________________________

Neal Speer, Village President                           Date

 

 

 

 

 

 

_____________________________________          ___________________________________

Dianne Day, Village Clerk                               Date

 

 

 

September 24, 2018

SWANTON VILLAGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

SWANTON VILLAGE MUNICIPAL COMPLEX

120 FIRST STREET

SWANTON, VT 05488

 

 

 

REGULAR MEETING

Monday, September 24, 2018

7:00 PM

 

 

 

PRESENT: Neal Speer, Village President; Chris Leach, Trustee; Adam Paxman, Trustee; Eugene LaBombard, Trustee; Reginald Beliveau, Village Manager; Dianne Day, Village Clerk; Roger Langevin, Candidate for Franklin County Sheriff; 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 p.m.

 

2.      Agenda Review:

 

Adam Paxman stated he would like to add a second customers’ account to discuss in Executive Session.

3.      Public Comment:

 

Roger Langevin stated he wanted to stop by and introduce himself to the Board and discuss any issues or concerns they may have. He stated he’s a retired detective sergeant with the VT State Police and was a supervisor in the Intel Division. He explained to the Board his law enforcement career and said he is now working in the St. Albans schools. He said he feels drug education is how they are going to get ahead of the current drug problem. He mentioned the new street crimes unit in St. Albans City and said he would like to see that program go county wide with the Swanton Police, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office and the VT State Police (VSP). He said they need to find a way to work together and said VSP recently received $4 million dollars to help fight the opiate issue. He said he’d like to see a program put together and do a county wide effort. He talked about the number of drug related deaths in 2016 and in 2017 and said these deaths were related to heroin and fentanyl. He said there was a recent drug bust with a 22 year old female being caught with 10,000 bags of fentanyl. He said information sharing is a big deal and said they need it. He said all law enforcement agencies need to work together to address the heroin problem. The Board and Mr. Langevin also discussed ATV issues, speeding cars and working in the school system educating young students about the dangers of drug use. The Board thanked Mr. Langevin for coming in and introducing himself.

 

4.      Approve and Accept Minutes from the Monday, September 10, 2018 Regular Meeting and Public Hearing:

 

Adam Paxman made the motion to approve and accept the Minutes from Monday, September 10, 2018 as presented. Eugene LaBombard seconded. Discussion: Chris Leach asked Reg Beliveau if the highway department had gotten the SLOW stencil yet. Reg stated he believed it was in. Chris Leach asked if all dead end streets could be stenciled and requested that Gallup Court be done as well. Motion carried.

 

5.      Approve and Accept Village Warrants through Friday, September 21, 2018:

 

Chris Leach made the motion to approve and accept Village Warrants through Friday, September 21, 2018 as presented. Adam Paxman seconded. Discussion: None. Motion carried.

 

6.      Discuss Police Cruiser Lease Options:

 

Dianne Day, Village Clerk, explained to the Board that Lynn Paradis, Assistant Village Manager, received three payment and interest quotes from leasing companies. They are as follows: Municipal Leasing Consultants, 4.71%, $1,240.09 per month; Tax-Exempt Leasing, 4.98%, $1,244.85 per month; and Ford Credit, 6.90%, $1,295.63 per month. Municipal Leasing Consultants has the lowest interest and payment rate, so that is who Lynn is recommending to the Board.

 

Eugene LaBombard made the motion to authorize the Village of Swanton to accept Municipal Leasing Consultants lease interest rate of 4.71% with a monthly payment of $1,240.09 per month for the Swanton Village Police Department cruiser. Chris Leach seconded. Motion carried.

         7. Any Other Necessary Business:

 

Elisabeth Nance, Economic Development Coordinator, stated the VT Council on Rural Development will be having their community visit on Wednesday, October 10^th. She said there will be Power Week, the Community Visit and a Ducky Derby. She said there is a free community dinner at the Swanton School on Fourth Street at 6 p.m. on October 10. Some of the events being held will be Home and Apartment Energy Improvement Opportunities from 3-4:15 p.m. and Business Energy Improvement Opportunities from 4:30 to 5:45 p.m., both at the Swanton Public Library. There will be Improving Transportation Options in Swanton from 3 to 4:15 p.m. and School/Youth Engagement and Municipal Energy Opportunities from 4:30 to 5:45 p.m., both at the Municipal Complex and Agriculture, Working Lands, and Local Food from 3 to 4:15 p.m. and Lodging, Tourism, Recreation, the Arts, and Marketing Swanton from 4:30 to 5:45 p.m., both at the Methodist Church. There will be a free dinner and an evening forum held at the Swanton Central School. Dinner will be at 6 p.m. and Action Idea Pitches and Final Brainstorming Session from 7 to 8:30 p.m. All members of the Swanton Community are invited and encouraged to join the discussions and free dinner. Reg Beliveau stated he has contacted some local vendors such as Bourne Energy to attend and they will be offering a sale on pellet stoves. He said Chevalier Drilling will be there with some geo thermal units. Reg also said this is a good opportunity for landlords to look into winterizing their rental units and apartment buildings. Chris Leach stated this would be a good time to print a utility bill and have it blown up and explain all the monthly charges on that bill. He also said an information booth set up about the Hydro Plant and the dam installation would be a great idea also.

 

Any Other Business: Reg Beliveau stated he contacted the Vermont Gas company regarding the recent explosions that happened in Massachusetts. He read the following response that he was given by Thomas Murray from the gas company: In light of the tragic events outside of Boston last week we wanted to reach out to the towns we serve and explain why our system is different and safer.

 

From what the NTSB has stated, this system in Massachusetts was an older “low pressure” system operating at a ¼ psi.  On these older, low pressure systems they often do not have pressure regulators (releases) at the homes.  In the course of doing some upgrade work Columbia Gas connected a medium pressure line to this low pressure system. This would have blown out pilot lights on older equipment, the homes could fill up with gas and could ignite.

 

VT Gas has a modern, medium pressure system with redundant regulators on our system and one regulator at every premise. Our system is monitored 7 x24 by our control center in South Burlington.  We are confident that this type of situation could not occur on our system. We are 100% committed to the safety of our customers every day.

 

Here is a link to our website if you get any concerned citizens:

 

https://www.vermontgas.com/important-safety-message-regarding-massachusetts-incident/

 

Don’t hesitate to call if you get other inquiries. Thanks, Tom

 

The Board thanked Reg for that information.

 

Any Other Business: Eugene LaBombard asked about the ton truck lease and asked if it cost more than what was anticipated. Reg stated the price for outfitting the body of the truck was misinterpreted. He said the price they were given didn’t include that and it needed to be done.

 

Any Other Business: Chris Leach stated the water is coming up at the dam. He said he checks it every day and it’s beginning to rise. Reg Beliveau stated generators #2 and #5 are running.

 

Any Other Business: Adam Paxman stated he wanted to give an update on the speeding issue. He said he’s received more emails from residents and he said he is thinking of requesting stop signs be put on certain streets. He said people don’t want that but he doesn’t know what the answer is but said they have to do something. Adding a stop sign would need an ordinance and would take 60 days to go into effect. Adam asked about having fog lines painted on Canada Street. The Board discussed patrolling and getting ticketed. Adam stated he doesn’t feel this would matter to some people.

 

Any Other Business:  Reg Beliveau stated September is National Preparedness Month and said that Dianne Day would be mailing letters to the families affected by the flood giving tips on how to be prepared in case something like the flood happened again. He said there was some great information on emergency kits and what to gather and how to store it in case of an emergency. Chris Leach stated the recognition Reg, Dianne, Tim and Joey received was well deserved.

 

 

 

 

 

 

8.  Executive Session to Discuss Customer Account:

 

Chris Leach made the motion to enter into Executive Session at 8:07 p.m. to discuss customer account. Eugene LaBombard seconded. Motion carried.

 

Chris Leach made the motion to exit Executive Session at 8:40 p.m. Eugene LaBombard seconded. Motion carried.

 

ACTION TAKEN: None.

 

9. Adjournment:

 

Eugene LaBombard made the motion to adjourn the Regular Board of Trustees meeting and Public Hearing at 8:40 p.m. Chris Leach seconded. There being no further business at hand, Neal Speer, Village President, adjourned the meeting at 8:40 p.m. Motion carried.

 

 

 

 

 

_____________________________________          _______________________________________

Neal Speer, Village President                           Date

 

 

 

 

 

 

_____________________________________          ___________________________________

Dianne Day, Village Clerk                               Date

 

 

 

September 10, 2018

SWANTON VILLAGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

SWANTON VILLAGE MUNICIPAL COMPLEX

120 FIRST STREET

SWANTON, VT 05488

 

 

REGULAR MEETING & PUBLIC HEARING

Monday, September 10, 2018

7:00 PM

 

 

 

PRESENT: Neal Speer, Village President; Chris Leach, Trustee; Adam Paxman, Trustee; Eugene LaBombard, Trustee; Reginald Beliveau, Village Manager; Dianne Day, Village Clerk; John Lumsden, MVUHS Athletic Director 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 Public Hearing and called the meeting to order at 7:04 p.m. Neal asked for a moment of silence to recognize when our country was attacked on 9/11. He asked that everyone keep those families in their prayers and to never forget.

 

2.      Agenda Review:

 

None.

3.      Public Comment:

 

None.

 

4.      Public Informational Hearing – Swanton Village Police Department Applying for Federal Grant:

 

Neal Speer, Village President, read aloud the Public Hearing Notification that ran in the St. Albans Messenger: The Swanton Village Police Department, along with the Swanton Village Board of Trustees, will hold a Public Informational Hearing on Monday, September 10, 2018 at 7 p.m. This meeting will be held at 7 p.m. at the Swanton Village Complex, 120 First Street, Swanton, VT 05488.

The purpose of this Public Informational Hearing would be to acquaint the citizenry about the Swanton Village Police Department applying for a federal grant through the US Department of Agriculture Rural Development Office to help purchase a new police cruiser for their K9 Program, and answering any questions the public may have. Reg Beliveau, Village Manager, stated that the Swanton Village Police Department has decided to apply for a Rural Development Grant through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to assist them in purchasing a new Ford Explorer police cruiser for their recently established K9 Unit. The targeted purchase time for the cruiser would be for fiscal year 2019. The grant covers up to 15% of the cost of a new cruiser and would incur no cost to Swanton Village to apply for the grant. The grant is designed for smaller rural communities, such as Swanton Village, and is determined by population and average medium income of the residents. The amount of money that the Village of Swanton would be eligible for through this grant is $7458.  Eugene LaBombard made the motion authorizing the Swanton Village Police Department to move forward with this grant application. Adam Paxman seconded. Motion carried.

 

5.      Approve and Accept Minutes from the Monday, August 27, 2018 Regular Meeting:

 

Chris Leach made the motion to approve and accept the Minutes from the Monday, August 27, 2018 regular meeting. Adam Paxman seconded. Discussion: Chris Leach stated he wanted more clarification on Adam Paxman’s statement about net metering and how the $40,000 in lost revenue affects the existing ratepayers. He also wanted it made clear that the offset between the taxpayers and ratepayers doesn’t come close to the loss. Motion carried with changes.

 

6.      Approve and Accept Village Warrants through Friday, September 7, 2018:

 

Eugene LaBombard made the motion to approve and accept Village Warrants through Friday, September 7, 2018 as presented. Chris Leach seconded. Discussion: Adam Paxman asked about Warrants #81 and #83. Village Manager Reg Beliveau stated these were pay down payments on a line of credit. Motion carried.

 

7.      Athletic Director at MVUHS John Lumsden Requesting Parade on September 21 to Celebrate Homecoming Week with Band, Athletic Teams and Clubs:

 

MVUHS Athletic Director John Lumsden was present for this request. He informed the Board that in honor of celebrating Homecoming Week the MVU Band, Athletic Teams and Clubs would like to show their support by marching through the Village on Friday, September 21^st from 5:45 to 6:45. He said the parade route would be on York Street onto First Street and ending at the Village Complex. Chris Leach asked if they thought First Street was wide enough for a parade. He also wondered where people would park. The Board discussed this and thought residents could park on Canada Street or side streets and walk over to First Street to watch the parade. Mr. Lumsden thought this parade was a good idea to show community spirit and give a positive environment at the school. He said he has talked with Don Gilbert from the Swanton Village Police Department and they are aware of the parade and would give a traffic detail. Mr. Lumsden stated if it rains the parade would be cancelled and not rescheduled. He said they are having a homecoming outside dance that evening as well as fireworks. Adam Paxman made the motion to approve MVUHS’s request to hold a parade on September 21^st from 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. from York Street onto First Street and ending the Village Complex. Eugene LaBombard seconded. Motion carried.

 

8.      Swanton Elementary After School Crossroads Program request Coin Drop for June 22, 2019:

 

Reg Beliveau, Village Manager, informed the Board that he contacted Kathy Kneebone regarding whether or not the After School Crossroads Program was funded by tax dollars. Kathy informed Reg that part of the program was funded by tax dollars but also stated that they are required to do fundraising in order to keep their budget. Eugene LaBombard made the motion to approve the Swanton Elementary Crossroads Afterschool Program request to hold a coin drop on Saturday, June 22, 2019 (June 29, 2019 rain date) from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Chris Leach seconded. Motion carried with two yays, one nay.

 

9.      Request to Hold Halloween in the Park Saturday, October 27, 2018:

 

Reg Beliveau, Village Manager, informed the Board that Rich Kelley is requesting to hold Halloween in the Park on Saturday, October 27. Reg said this is a multi agency event and said they have several vendors who will participate. The Board of Trustees stated they are in support of having Halloween in the Park on Saturday, October 27th.

 

         10. Any Other Necessary Business:

 

Neal Speer, Village President, asked how the cylinder repair went at the Hydro Plant. Reg Beliveau, Village Manager, said it went well and everything is ready to go, they just need water. He said Unit #5 is running at 80% and Unit #2 is running at 50%.

 

Any Other Business: Adam Paxman asked about the coin drop procedure and suggested adding if an organization was approved in 2018 to hold a coin drop then they shouldn’t be allowed to hold one the following year. Chris Leach stated no one has been rejected and Eugene LaBombard stated he understood Adam’s request but said he wouldn’t support it at this time. Adam also asked about the striping on Canada Street and asked if that was something the Village could do themselves. Reg said he would look into that. Adam also asked if the Village had anything in writing about yard sales needing a permit. Eugene stated the Zoning office would have that information. Adam also stated the Chamber of Commerce would like to hold Christmas in the Park on Saturday, November 24^th. Eugene LaBombard made the motion to approve the Chamber of Commerce’s request to hold Christmas in the Park on Saturday, November 24, 2018. Chris Leach seconded. Motion carried. Adam also stated he would like to give kudos to Reg Beliveau, Village Manager, for being named Emergency Management Director of the Year for all his work and leadership during the flood of January 2018. Reg stated that Dianne Day, Tim Girard and Joey Stell were also recognized for their effort as well.

 

Any Other Business: Eugene LaBombard asked Adam Paxman if he has had any more feedback regarding the speeding issue. Adam stated he is still getting responses and will address it at the next board meeting. Chris Leach stated the speed limit on Village side streets can be reduced to 20-25 mph. He also asked if the word “Slow” could be sprayed on dead end streets in the Village. Reg stated he would see if they could find a stencil for that. Neal Speer stated his comment on getting a speed gun with a camera on it was taken out of context. He said this could free up an officer. Reg stated the Police Department was looking into that option. Adam Paxman asked residents to please slow down.

 

Any Other Business: Elisabeth Nance stated she is still looking for input on the Design Downtown campaign she is running along with AARP. She said the deadline is September 21^st and she is interested in hearing your ideas. She said so far the most popular idea is installing a roundabout. She said a meeting will be held on October 12 and this is one step in a long process to fix this area.

 

 

 

 

 

11.  Executive Session If Necessary:

 

None.

 

12. Adjournment:

 

Adam Paxman made the motion to adjourn the Regular Board of Trustees meeting and Public Hearing at 7:45 p.m. Chris Leach seconded. There being no further business at hand, Neal Speer, Village President, adjourned the meeting at 7:45 p.m. Motion carried.

 

 

 

 

 

_____________________________________          _______________________________________

Neal Speer, Village President                           Date

 

 

 

 

 

 

_____________________________________          ___________________________________

Dianne Day, Village Clerk                               Date

 

 

 

August 27, 2018

SWANTON VILLAGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

SWANTON VILLAGE MUNICIPAL COMPLEX

120 FIRST STREET

SWANTON, VT 05488

 

 

REGULAR MEETING

Monday, August 27, 2018

7:00 PM

 

 

 

PRESENT: Neal Speer, Village President; Chris Leach, Trustee; Adam Paxman, Trustee; Eugene LaBombard, Trustee; Reginald Beliveau, Village Manager; Lynn Paradis, Assistant Village Manager; Dianne Day, Village Clerk; Leonard Stell, Chief of Police; Gary Centabar 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:

 

Adam Paxman stated he would like to move Public Comment to the beginning of this meeting and would like for it to be at the beginning of each meeting from now on. Reg Beliveau stated he would like to move Net Metering to the beginning as well.

3.      Approve and Accept Village Minutes from the Monday, August 13, 2018 Regular Meeting:

 

Chris Leach made the motion to approve and accept the Minutes from Monday, August 13, 2018 regular meeting as presented. Eugene LaBombard seconded. Discussion: None. Motion carried.

 

4.      Approve and Accept Village Warrants through Friday, August 24, 2018:

 

Eugene LaBombard made the motion to approve and accept Village Warrants through Friday, August 24, 2018 as presented. Adam Paxman seconded. Discussion: None. Motion carried.

 

5.      Public Comment:

 

None.

 

6.      Discussion on Net Metering:

 

Lynn Paradis, Assistant Village Manager, stated the Village of Swanton has two 500 KW net metered projects online and they get their credits each month. She said they have three which are considered group net metered, two of which are the 500 KW projects. She said the Village reads those meters and gives them their credits each month. She said group net metered projects have off-takers which receive some of the credits. She said the Village of Swanton is an off-taker to the project on the Frontage Road along with the Town of Highgate and the Schools. She said depending on what percentage you have, the meter is read, the bill is generated and then the percentages of credit are applied to each one of the off-takers account. She said the other net metered projects receive their credits each month and then they pay the developer of that project back a percentage. She said between all the Village’s solar projects it totals approximately $40,000 per month in credits which is lost revenue for the Village. Adam Paxman stated this $40,000 loss per month goes back onto the Village’s ratepayers and Lynn agreed with this. She said that equates to a 1 to 2 % rate increase if she was to go in for one due to solar. Chris Leach asked how much per kilowatt are the solar customers being paid. Lynn said that depended on the net metering rules and said everyone is different. She said the old projects are 20 cents per kilowatt and the new ones are 15 cents per kilowatt. She said the adjusters drop off after ten years and said the Village is losing the full amount because they aren’t getting that revenue. It’s called load shedding she said. Adam stated the Village is over a half a million dollars in credits being given out each year. Lynn said July and August are around $40,000 per month but for December and January it’s not that much. In the winter months it’s around $10,000 per month. Chris Leach said it’s irritating to him that the people who don’t participate in these solar projects have their rates increased because of it. He said that is not fair. Lynn said the Board agreed to participate in one of the solar projects a while ago and because of that the sewer plant, water plant and complex building are all participants and save money in those departments. She said it’s offsetting for the Village because the rate payers are seeing an increase but the taxpayers are seeing a decrease but said the offset is not close to being equal. Chris stated it doesn’t even come close to what’s being lost and how that affects the rate payers. Lynn said the Village paid the solar company approximately $8600 in July but retained close to $3400 in the water, sewer and general fund. She said at least some of the Village’s departments saw a benefit because the solar projects were coming in whether the Village participated in it or not. Lynn said some utilities are saturated with over 30% of solar customers. She said it’s very important that a ratepayer do their homework and really find out what these developers are telling them for numbers. Reg said he is trying to educate our customers about being a public power utility and when these solar companies come in and try to sell them solar they are like a car salesman. He said educating our ratepayers by giving them the tools they need to make informed decisions is his priority. Lynn said you will always have customers who will switch to solar because it’s green and because it’s new technology even if it costs them a bit more. She said there are other customers who are thinking they’re going to get a better payback than what they actually get. Reg said that VPPSA will be here during Power Week in October and they will be showing how people can make their homes more efficient and better winterized. Chris stated these are the things that can really make a difference in your electric bill each month. He said the reality of solar is that it’s forcing rate increases on those who don’t participate for one reason or another. He said both wind and solar deteriorate over time and must be replaced. He said generators can be rebuilt and often times produce more electricity the older they get. The Board thanked Lynn for coming in and explaining net metering to them.

 

7.      Approve Amended Historic Preservation Commission Ordinance:

 

Dianne Day, Village Clerk, explained to the Board that Elisabeth Nance is requesting a change to this Ordinance. The change is going from a 3 member board to no more than 10 members. Adam Paxman made the motion to adopt and approve the amended Historic Preservation Commission Ordinance. Chris Leach seconded. Motion carried.

 

8.      Chief of Police – Swanton Police Department Update:

 

Chief Stell informed the Board that so far in the month of August they have handled 90 complaints in the Village. He said in July they had 112 calls and issued speeding tickets on Spring Street, Canada Street and Grand Avenue. He said so far in August they are seeing speeding on those same streets. He said they stopped one vehicle going 52 mph on Canada Street. He said once it’s paved it will be worse and said they are targeting those areas. Adam Paxman asked the Chief if the drug scene was getting any better. Chief Stell stated it hasn’t changed any. He said the bigger dealers live outside this area and the smaller quantities are being sold here. Neal Speer asked if the activity at the ball fields has declined or increased. Chief Stell stated there is no increased activity and no less. Reg Beliveau stated he has a grant for lighting and said they would like to light up the back field and also put lights at Marble Mill. Adam Paxman asked the Chief if there was any interest in bringing back “National Night Out” and the Chief said yes they are planning on doing it next year.

 

9.      Discussion on Speeding Issue:

 

Adam Paxman said he asked the public for help and said so far he’s received 12 responses. He said the concern is there and they are willing to help solve it. He said some of the suggestions have been speed bumps, dips, and bump outs. Reg Beliveau stated those would be a paving nightmare. Adam asked the public to continue sending him emails with areas of concern. Gary Centabar said he lives on Canada Street and the speeding is real bad from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. He said enforcement doesn’t work and suggested they install speed bumps or dips. He said they need to at least try something. Adam stated he will continue to compile information. He said he would like the 50 mph speed sign on Spring Street to be moved to the town line. He thinks that will help make a difference. Adam also mentioned the jake break signs that used to be up throughout the Village. He said the Village was advised by VLCT to remove those signs because you can’t tell a truck driver not to use a particular kind of break. He said this could end up being a safety issue so most towns have removed them.

 

         10. Swanton Elementary After School Corssroads Program request Coin Drop for June 22, 2019:

 

The Board asked if this program was funded by tax dollars and if so they didn’t feel this program should have a coin drop. They asked the Village Clerk to contact them and find out. Adam Paxman made the motion to table this item until next meeting. Chris Leach seconded. Motion carried.

 

11.  Any Other Necessary Business:

 

Chris Leach said the dam installation is done and he said it’s wonderful. He said now all they need is water! He said the MVUHS water line job is also done. Reg said he is having his final construction meeting on Tuesday. Chris said the NEPPA Conference went well and he took away the following information: “Quality, Quantity & Affordability.” He said that should be their theme and they also need to “tell their story”. He said they are not “publicly” owned, they are “community” owned. He said they should have footage of the dam being installed to help tell their story. Chris also wanted to thank the Town of Swanton for the fireworks show at the end of the Arts Spectacular. He said they had a great turnout and he said he also really likes the swan on the bandstand.

 

Any Other Business: Adam Paxman said the Arts Spectacular had a great day. He said the donations received for the free meal will go towards the playground fundraiser. Adam said Darcy Benoit of the Arts Council did a wonderful job on the Arts Spectacular. He also said he attended a Selectboard meeting and they are changing the name of Thibault Parkway to Summer’s Court. Reg said the signs are in they just need to be installed. Adam said there is Church Street behind the Village Green and also a Church Road in West Swanton. He is suggesting they change the name of Church Street to Park Street.

 

Any Other Business: Eugene LaBombard stated he is concerned about the parking situation on Greenwich and First Streets. He asked Reg if they went before the Development Review Board and Reg said no they haven’t. Eugene said the Highway Department should see this and said zoning should also be aware of the large truck being parked on Canada Street across from People’s United Bank.

 

Any Other Business: Reg Beliveau said there was a great article in the St. Albans Messenger about the playground fundraiser. Reg also said Elisabeth Nance, Economic Development Coordinator, was informed she received the sidewalk grant to place sidewalks from King Street to Brown Avenue. He said not only did they get the grant but the amount was doubled to $48,000. Reg also said the NEPPA Conference went well.

 

12.  Executive Session to Discuss Customer Accounts and Contracts:

 

Adam Paxman made the motion to enter into Executive Session to discuss customer accounts and contracts at 8:25 p.m. Eugene LaBombard seconded. Motion carried.

 

Adam Paxman made the motion to exit Executive Session at 8:49 p.m. Eugene LaBombard seconded. Motion carried.

 

ACTION TAKEN: None.

 

13. Adjournment:

 

Chris Leach made the motion to adjourn the Regular Board of Trustees meeting at 8:49 p.m. Adam Paxman seconded. There being no further business at hand, Neal Speer, Village President, adjourned the meeting at 8:49 p.m. Motion carried.

 

 

 

 

 

_____________________________________          _______________________________________

Neal Speer, Village President                           Date

 

 

 

 

 

 

_____________________________________          ___________________________________

Dianne Day, Village Clerk                               Date