MINUTES FROM THE DECEMBER 16, 2002 SELECT BOARD MEETING

Board members present were Ron Lafreniere, Sr, Pete Siegel, John Devine, and Jerry Mullen. Also present were Town Clerk Deborah LaRiviére and Town Attorney Robert Fletcher, Gil Livingston and Bob Linck representing the Vermont Land Trust and town residents Lars Botzojorns, Joss Bess and Mica Cassara. The meeting was called to order at 6pm.

Robert Fletcher addressed the group present and indicated that since the documents concerning the purchase of the Tiffany/Morrissey property, prepared by the Vermont Land Trust (VLT) were received so late (3:45pm on Thursday 12/12/02) he felt the Select Board was not sufficiently prepared to vote and still had outstanding questions. Mica Cassara presented a petition with approximately 70 signatures supporting the purchase of the land by the Town. Fletcher informed the Board that 30 acres were being held by Tiffany/Morrissey and the transfer would be conducted from Tiffany et al to the VLT by December 31, 2002 and then from the VLT to the Town of Bolton (TOB) by April 01, 2003. Fletcher went to comment that the VLT needs to know where the TOB stands with this project before continuing. The VLT is putting up the bulk of the funds for the purchase and their commitment hinges on the Town’s involvement and financial pledge. Gil Livingston indicated that the VLT is looking for a commitment of approximately $50 thousand form the Town. The Board had questions regarding the future upkeep and care of the parking areas, the care and policing of the acreage in general (with regard to the limitation of use), the issue of future development of the remaining acreage and liability. The TOB would be responsible for the care of the parking areas and for hiring an overseer or a forester. Fletcher felt the liability would be minimal. As to future development, the piece that is being retained by Tiffany et al can be developed and is within the Town’s 2 acre zoning district. Livingston stated that the development rights on the remaining 25 acres is crucial to Tiffany et al.

John motioned to enter Executive Session to discuss this transaction. Seconded by Jerry. The Board entered Executive Session at 6:35 and returned to the regular meeting at 6:50.

The Board would like some more time to review these documents and offer modifications to the Conservation Easement. It was determined that the Board will meet again on Thursday December 18, 2002 at 2:30 pm to decide this matter. This meeting will be held at the Fire Station. This portion of the meeting ended and the Board continued with their agenda.

Joss Besse met with the Board to discuss the planning grant that the town received for ordinance re-writes. There will be an advisory board to oversee the grant made up of members of the select board (2), the DRB (1), Conservation Commission (1), the Planning Commission (5), and the representative for CCRP. The Select Board agreed that each individual board would nominate their member to the advisory board and submit it to the Select Board. Besse will return to the Select Board on January 06, 2003 to update them.

Beth Gilpin presented the Board with the budget for the Recreation Committee. They are looking for level funding, the same as last year, $2,000. (See budget file for copy) Ron motioned: To approve a budget of $2,000 for the Recreation Committee for the year 2003-04.” Jerry seconded. There was no discussion, all were in favor, moiton passed.

Fire Chief Mike Gervia presented his budget which increased from $71,000 to $75,000 (See budget file for copy). This represents an increase of insurance costs. Jerry motioned: “To approve a budget of $75,000 for the Fire Department for the year 2003-04.” Ron seconded. There was no discussion, all were in favor, motion passed.

There was no other business to be brought before this Board at this time.

Jerry motioned to end the meeting, seconded by Pete. The meeting closed at 8:30.

Attest:

Deborah LaRiviére

Town Clerk

Minutes are unofficial until approved

These minutes were read and approved by the Bolton Select Board on ____________2003. ________________For the Board