Town of Charlotte

Board of Selectmen

Minutes

Monday, June 23, 2003

6:30 PM, Charlotte Town Hall

MEMBERS PRESENT: Ellie Russell, Chair

Jennifer Cole

Charles Russell

OTHERS: Dan Senecal-Albrecht (selectboard assistant)

Jet Advani

Sheila Braun

Stephen Brooks

Holly Callery

Jake Callery

Mike Claflin Sylvia Sprigg

Eric Farrell

Erich Finley

Janet Foster

Karen and Mike Frost

John Hammer

Clark Hinsdale, Jr.

Clark Hinsdale, III

Allan Jordan

Sylvia Knight

David Marshall

Jeff McDonald

John Owen

Robin Reade

Anita Royer

Nancy Sabin

Carolyn & Rolf Sennhenn

Susan Smichenko

Sylvia Sprigg

Tony Stout

Bob Wright

Jake Callery

Sylvia

Stephen Brooks

Sheila Braun

Marshall

The meeting was called to order at 7:03 p.m.

The items on the agenda were as follows:

Highway access permits: Applicants- 1. Estate of Marietta Palmer, 2. Alma T. Clark June 29, 1995 Revocable Trust, 3. Champlain Valley Cohousing Development Company, LLC. / Adjustments to Agenda / Public Discussion / Appointments (member & alternate) to CCMPO-TAC / Approve appointment of Zoning Administrator, Tom Mansfield, as recommended by Planning Commission / Peter Keating, Executive Director, CCMPO: Report to Town of Charlotte / Adjustments to FY04 Town Budget / Parking issues at Old Brick Store (Michael Frost) / Report by Clark Hinsdale, III on proposed new barn at Nordic Farm / Presentation of Recommendation by Rec. Cmsn. On Town Intramural Program / Open Bids for Brushhogging of certain Town lands / Approve permit request by Waitsfield Telecom to repair utility pole on Thompsons’ Pt. Rd. / Potential acquisition of Varney Farm by Town / Appointemetsnts to Town Trails Committee / Approve minutes of May 12^th, May 20^th, June 9^th and June 11^th / Selectboard Updates

Highway access permits

Estate of Mariette Palmer – Erick Farrell, respresenting the estate, asddressed the meetingSelectboard. He explained that the plan is to come off the existing cut and propose to sweep it. He also said that the Cmikgn off existing cut and proposeing to sweep it – curfrent road serves the existing house. He will be going in front of the Charlotte Planning Commission on July 2, 2003 for a preliminary sketch review. – Jauily 2^nd going in fron tof CPC. Eleanor Russell asked if the road commissioner had been on site and Mr. Farrell said that he had and he had no problems with it. Road commissioner has been there already in answer to Ellie’s question if he had been on site yet. He had no problems. Charles Russell asked if there was a culvert there; Mr. Farrell said there is one but that the entire road needs to be upgraded. Chrales askedf or culvert. Ther eis a culvert – enterie road needs to be upgraded, Eric said. 18 foot wide road in twon spec, but Dan suggested at intersection it may be wider than that. Planenrs will determine that. EllieEleanor Russell noted that the Selectboard said usually sees people after they have gone through the Planning Commission, but sees no problem with this application. The Selectboard directed Mr. Farrell to planning, but she sees no problem with it. 7 lots. Planloloks good to Selectboard. Come bafckd after preliminary. return after the preliminary sketch review with the Planning Commission. Charles Russell asked for comments by neighbors. There were none. Charles asked for comments by neighbors. Tehre were none. No big objection now.

Alma T. Clark June 29, 1995 Revocable Trust – Tony Stout addressed the PCSelectboard. He showed wehere the site was on an ortho map. He explained that the Pplan is to have the driveway be at the top of the long grade that goes down Spear St. eextension. Mr. Claflin asked if a low screening buffer could be planted. Charles Russell explained that that was a Planning Commission item. Scrfeening on ____ he asked for a low screening, Mr. Claflin asked for. Charles said that is a planning commission item. Dan asked if PC had reocjmmmendaiton on curb cut. Yes, this is final approved.Mr. Stout said he would talk with Jean to see if she had any problem with putting screening in, but noted that it would ultimately be the purchaser’s decision. Tony will talk with Jean to see if she would put screening in, but up to purchaser of lot. Dan Senecal-Albrecht Dan asked for dcomments relative to the driveway.

CharCharles Russellles asked Mr. Senecal-Albrecht for the application from Juniorthe Road Commissioner of Dan. Mr. Senecal-Albrecht read from the application noting that the Ssite distance is 550 feet to the north and 1,300 fee t toi the south –and it has been flaggedk Dan read from the appolicationl. .

Champlain Valley Cohousing Development Company, LLC. Champlai Vallye cohousing – Dave Marshall from Civil Engineering Associates showed a map of the location of this project. LHe explained that it is located between Mr. Lawrence’s pond and Doug Cole’s place. ocvasytred between Mr. Larwane’c epondand Doug Cole’s place. This application creates a new curb cut. The applicant has had sketch plan and preliminary plat approval from the Planning Commission and Aploication creates new curb cut. Serve 26 units – had sketpch plan and prleiniahnry plat approval form lpaning ocmmisons – appolicatoin in for ifinal approval to CPC. has been submitted to the Planning Commission for final approval. Champlain Valley Cohousing will formalize the entrance with paving, no curb. Eleanor Russell asked if there was any culvert and Mr. Marshall said that no culvert was necessary there. CVCH formalize enrance with paving, no curb. Ellie asked if any culver t- Dave said no culver tnecessary there. The site distances, he said, are in the northerly direction 510 feet, and southerly 1,230 feet. TSitge distandces in nrotherlyd ireciton 510 rfeetk, southerly 1230 feet. he Agency of Transportation recommendedAOT recommendatdiokns site distances are if the – road is posted at 35 mph, but could use additional signs, but wen t up to 40 and 45 mph, at 45 mph, dthe site sitancde isdistance would be 495 feet. He said that they cCan get 550 feet of distance if they cut some vegetation in front of Mr. Lawrence’ s lot. He recomjmends that., which he recommends . Charles Russell noted that they would be building the driveway in anotherold town’s right-of-way. Buildign drifveway in another otwn’s right of way, Charles noted. DanMr. Senecal-Albrecht asked fowho would be responsible for mowing; Mr. Marshall said it would be applicant’s responsibility. Charles Russell asked for concerns of neighbors. There were none. r reposnbiloityh of mowing – it would be the applicatnt’s responsibilty, Dave Marshall said.

Charles asked for concerns of neighborfs. There were none.

Chairman Russell called the regular meeting of the Selectboard to order at 7:20 p.m. 7:20 – regular meeting – Charles called to order.

Adjustments to Agenda

None. Syhlvia ____Sylvia Knight wanted to raise questions about the issues listed at the end of the agenda and asked when it would be appropriate to do so. Charles Russell said that – can we raise issues during the public disucssiojhn comment and subjmit at that point about VELCO? Charlesshe could bring them up briefly when the matter was scheduled to be discussed later or leave something with the Selectboard that could be read later.

said you can brin it up briefly then or leave something that can read later. At this point, Eleanor Russell made a motion to close the hearing on the two driveway access requests (Alma Clark and Champlain Valley Cohousing). Jenny Cole seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion was PASSED. Move to close hearing on 2 driveway acdcess request (Clark and COHOUSIGN – Elloie, Jenn second. All in favor.

Public Discussion

Sylvia Knight, addressed the Selectboard stating that she had studied the VELCO duocuments and looked at the Charlotte Town pPlan, which appears to contain no olanguage about tulitelsiutilities and rights- of- way in relation to th et values the Townw wantes to rprtotect and believes that that situation can be remedied. Her next point was that the VELCO project must comply with 30 V.S.A. Section 248 in regard to protecting public health, natural Next poin – VELCO proejfct must comply with 30 VSA Section 248 in reard to protedcting pubolic heath, natural resoures resources and other values covered din the town docucmeetsnts and must show that power needs can not be addressed in any other way. The Mmaterial from velcoVELCO, she said, does not demonstrate to this point that this preoject won’t cojmplycomply with the provisions of the law. She said she was hoping that the Selectboard and the Planning Commission could work together preoovisn sof the law – hopikng that Selctboard nad CPC will work together rtoto amend the Town Plan to include language about utilities and rights-of-way and jmaybe amend town plan to include language about tiltiutelsi and rihts of way get input from the Conservation Committee that it become a party to the VELCO petition and also to perhaps set up an ad hoc group to help them in this process. and inp ut from CCC that it beocm ea prat to VELCO petition and maybe set up adhoc group to help them int eh process. Ms. Knight went on to say that there is Nnothing in comments so far that addresses the issue of toxcins used in chemically- treated poles. There is Nno recognition in VELCO’s report of natural communities that the Conservation Committee has identified in the Town. There are some problems around economics and the lack of full regard for alternative measures. She then distributed written comments to the Selectboard. Eleanor Russell asked if she was referring to chemically-treated “wooden” poles and Ms. Knight said yes. CCC has idneified in the town. Some probelmes around economics and lack of full o regard for alternative measures. She gave written comments. Ellie asked if referrihng to chemicallyh treatedw oooden polesl. Yes, Syvloia said.

Chalrfes asked for nother public disucssino.,Charles Russell asked if there was any more public comment. Stephen Brooks asked: 1) did slectmanthe Selectboard provide inforjmatiton regardidng his attendance this evening (Arthaud)Mr. Arthaud? Eleanor Russell said that she had an email from him saying that he should be back in July – ellie said back in saddle in July –she ahd emjail form him ; 2) has Chalroetet vlUtnerere fire and rescue Charlotte Volunteer Fire & Rescue provided a drafdft of their corporate bylaws yet? Eleanor Russell said no, they have been working on them and they have gone out to the membership but haven’t come back yet; 3)vylaw syet – Ellie said no – they have been working othem, gone out to membership and haven’t come back form membership yet – 3) ffollowing up on the Ploof Farm Rroad discussion at the last kjmeeting, has town ocucnilTown counsel been consuldteconsulted redgarding MwMr. Beldockmont’’s comments? CharlesCharles Russell said yes. Some of Beldex’s comments camae out of a lease bwetttween sShelburene and Ccharlotte and ceased to esxist when the sale went throrugh. The latest word from the town attorney, he said, is that the rowright-of-way that was liadlaid out originally in May of 1965 is still exsisting gin addition to the roradway tha t nodoes not exists and the right- of- way was never extinguished. Beldar

Also, Charles Russell said, when the road was widened to 60 feet from 50 feet in the 1990s, the requirements for fences on both sides didn’t go away, so there are fences when road was widended to y60 fee tform 50 fee int eh 90s, Charles said, the requirements for fences on both wsides didn’t go away – so still reuqireimetnsrequirements for gates at the end of the road, but no requqiremetnt to lock or close the gates at any given time. Mr. Brooks asked if it was the intention of the Selectboard to summarize all these things in writing and if so, when? Eleanor Russell said that will be done towards the end of summer. Mr. Brooks thanked the Selectboard. Is it SB’ intention to sumarmize lalt hese thing sin wriign and if so, when, steve asked. Ellie said end of summer. Thank kyou very much< Steve said.

Appointments (member & alternate) to CCMPO-TAC

Charles Russell recommended appointing Dan Senecal-Albrecht for a two-year term to the CCMPO TAC. Eleanor Russell made a motion to appoint Dan Senecal-Albrecht to serve a 2-year term on the CCMPO TAC as the Selectboard’s representative. Jenny Cole seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion was PASSED. CCMPO TAC – appoint Dan fo r2-year term, Chalres asaid. Move aponitDan S_A, Elli to 2-year term as our represntaitnve to tehCCMPO – TAC. Jenifer seconded. All in favor. PASSED.

Eleanor Russell made a motion to appoint Debbie Ramsdell to serve a 2-year term on the CCMPO TAC as the Selectboard’s alternate representative. Jenny Cole seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion was PASSED. Also, Elli moved to apopinte Debbie Ramsdell aslatenrate to same orgnaizaiton for eh reuqireiste term. Jenny seconded. All in favor. Passed.

Approve appointment of Zoning Administrator, Tom Mansfield, as recommended by Planning Commission

Eleanor Russell made a motion to approve the recommendation of the Planning Commission to appoint Tom Mansfield as the Zoning Administrator. Jenny Cole seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion was PASSED.

Appoikntgemtn of Zoning adminsitriator – CPC recolmmedned – Elli moved to approve CPC apopintmetn. Jenny seconded. All in favo r – PASSEDl.,

Peter Keating, Executive Director, CCMPO: Report to Town of Charlotte

PETER KEDATING – Susan Smichenko addressed the Selectboard in polace of Peter KeartingKeating. Addresssed th PC – She explained her purpose of being there was to talk about the 2025 Metropolitan Transportation Plan and give explanationand to give an update. Did just handouts.She distributed hard copies of a Powerpoint presentation which she went through and explained. She gave a brief overview of CCMPO, that it was – established by federal law , locally contgroleld in 1982. The CCMPO is responsible for creating the Llong-range plan, maintaining the Transportation Improvement Programs (TIP), project scooping, planning studies and technical assistance. Creating the Plan is required by law. H and it has to be updated every 5 years. She went on to explain that Ssome of the new information in the Plan isconcerns freight study, the bike/ped plan, corridor studies, new population and emloyemtnemployment rproejectoions, transit studies and palans fo r inteliigentintelligent transporatointransportation systems. The Llast update was in 1997. She Eexplained the phases of devlepingdeveloping the pPlan. . The CCMPO Llooked at existing conditions, existing public tarnsporationtransportation, rail and bike/;ped facilities. , as well as Looked at county travel patterns. They Trend analyhsis looked at population and employemtnemployment preojctiosnprojections devleopddeveloped for the county and spreading jobs and households and then relating it to traffic and transportation and coming up with a 2025 planlPlan. That was Phase 1. SHE WENT THROUGH POWER POINT PRESENTATION ATTACHED. She said that by this fall, they will have a draft plan for the Selectboard to read. By fall, have draft plan for Selectboard to read. She said that the Ggoal is to have people not use their cars – stgaggaered work hours, bike/ped planning, increase transit, CIRC highway. They are Ttrying to balance the money –between interstate and arterials. They have also spent lots of time in public outreach; they have made presentations to selectboards and held workshops. interstae aned arterials. Lots of time in public outreach. Made presentations to selctobards, workshops. Now finalizing the preferred latenratigve in tersm of what projects CCMPO wil lbe recommending. Iiimportant to be in MTP to secure federal fudnign for them – hope to have draft plan readyh in July 03. They Hhope to adopt the plan in late 2003. Sylvia Sprigg asked what is the official line of the CCMPO about Burlringtotn’s proposed mujltimodal downtown transit center. Susan Ms. Smichenko said they have always supported the multijmodalmultimodal transit center; the believe it is an important component to continuing growtht of transit in the county. Syhlvia asked the location. SusanShe said she had never heard any ojbectoinobjection to the location – it is near the lake and they are promjtingpromoting lalkelake front devleopmtndevelopment;, it is downtown and accessible. e – sShe did stress that it is a City of Burlington project. Ms. Sabin asked about the $1.5 million cost for building it. Ms. Smichenko said he has heard that bad thing to have near lake cuz bus stations are bad places. Bulringont wants to create a nice place near ECHO center, she said. They encourage public transportation. IT is a city of bulrington project. Nancy asked if 1.5 milllin for building and that’s noneof yoru funds?? that a lot of it was federal funds. Susan said a lto of it is federal funds. Wantg it near the railroad tracksf or the train, Nancy confirmed with Susan. Sylvia Knight said it was good to have it in one place and the main disadvantage is that it is away from Church Street, the main shopping center. She expressed concern Sylv a____ good to have in one placek,m – main disavnatgne is away from shopping center (Church Street). Sylvia ___ -concerned aabout the ejmphasis on highways and very littile emphaspissemphasis on alternative tarnpsorttransport. Susan Ms. Smichenko said that they strive for a balanced approach and the Pplan does have signaitincintsignificant dollars for bike paths, sidewalks. Syhlvia ____Ms. Knight said expressed her concern that widening roads tends to increase speed. weidneign tends to increase speed, she voiced her concern. Susan Ms. Smichenko said the most fcirittical elrmement was land use. If there is sprawl, congestion will get worse, she said. S Sylvaia Sprigg remarked that thesaid January roundtable workshop was a very good acitityactivity. Clark Hinsdasale, Jr. asked about the future of the reailroad. SusanMs. Smichenko said they are evaluating a number of things (federal transit amdihnsitraiton – we had gotten al to fomeony for rail and it was costing goto much mthereoney) and there are no immeidat eplans toimmediate plans to start up rail again, only if traffic during construction on Route 7 gets to be a problem, will the State consider starting up the train again. Sylvia Knight – they said if traffic during congstructoin on route 7 gets bakck, the=y will consider startin git upagain. Sylvia ____ expressed concern that the VELCO preoject may take its new expanded taransmission line rirhght on top of rr the railroad station so may have tow rk out coorfdination with that. Syhlvia ____ - . She saidsaid all reprairs mad e on the railroadrr for passenger service were jmade on the understanding that service be resumed or continue, so she hopes that those epxpeneditgures are not in vain (the building of the station). Susan Ms. Smichenko said that the CCMPO considers passenger rail to be an important ocmponetncomponent of transporatintransportation system. When The Champlain Flyer was operatingk, it wasn’t used by enough people – tghey are also loking at bringing tarisn to Misddlblour; St. Albans. Rfail is imporatn to CCMPO and part aof the future. Clark Clark Hinsdale, Jr. asked if the City could afford the proposed multimodal systationem. Ms. Smichenko said that it is a City of Burlington project being paid for by federal dollars. bed able to afford the multmodall. Suean said City of Burlington rpeojct being paid for by federal dollars. Clarfk asked if it will be adfforfdable. Susan said doesn’t know if got any teantn. Nancy asked costs $15 milino for whole preojct, Susan said. Ellie surpised that CCMPO Board support CIRC highway from end to end.

CharlesCharles Russell asksed about freight. SusanMs. Smichenko said athere was a freight study that looked at oppouirthiunities for freight in Chitten den County but have recongiezdrecognized that it is outdated and freight is very much a focus right now. They are – looking to update the study next year. Charles Russell asked what types of freight to which Ms. Smichenko responded by saying that there is not an emphasis at this poWhat types of freight, Charles asked. Susan said ther ei snot an emphasis at this point. – She said that certainly rail is a better altanritevernative because it, keeps truck s off the raoad, but it is expensive and they arelooing at. The Draft pPlan didn’t address that at all, so that was added in January as a necessary cojnpoeontcomponent. They are talking about moving rr yard – and now trucks on highway – therea reno warehouses – it’s all on the road. Nancy asked how legally can use rrs for service eand storage yards of rr cars? Jeff said part of it is to get a handle on it for staff. Sylvia ____Knight said that if talking about rr, more consideration needs to be given toof more sustainable methods of manaignaing weeds on the railroad right-of-way right of way andin a less toxic way and rrs railroads need the support of the community in order to buy techcnolgogy and have personnel to do that work. Susan Ms. Smichenko said that the Agency of Natural Resources (ANR) would be helpful for that,; however, Ms. Knight said that she had already been down that route; she but Sylvai ___ said been down that route. She just wanted to put that init in a genaereal way. Cloaark Hinsdale, Jr. asked if the CCMPO had a source of funding for trails; Ms. Smichenko said yes and told everyone that the current Champlain Path project comes down through Charlotte. CCJMPO fourc eof udnign for trails. Suesan said yes, ChamplainPath comes down through Charlotte. Both Charles Russell and Ms. Smichenko asked for other questions. There

Charfles and Susan sked any other questions. There were none.

Adjustments to FY04 Town Budget

Charles Russell explained that, Budget Adjjustmetns

Ddue to a motion passed at tTown mMeeting, the Selectboard is looking to reduce $34,0p00 from the budget by $33,906, Charles said ($33,906). Ellie said this is a propsal only. . Eleanor Russell explained her recommendations (attached). Suggest that cut 2%from senior center ($800), she went down the list. Chalres elpxaiend the $15,000 from listers – state gives extra money for administering that. Sylvai __Sylvia Knight asked why the cuts were necessary. Eleanor Russell said that the Town voted to lower the budget at Town meeting. -asked why cuts are nexesarry. Town voted to lower budget at town meeting, Ellie said. Chalres asked for motion. Charles Russell asked for a motion. Eleanor Russell made a motion to adjust the budget as just indicated per the attached recommendations. Jenny Cole seconded. Ellie move that we adjust the budget as just indicatged. Jennifer seconded. Stephen Broooks asked if any of the what, of any of the nine deaptmentaldepartmental areas listed on the recommendation sheet have income or revenue sources other than , do anyh of them have income or revenue sourceds other than appropriations form the taxpayers? Charles Russell affirmed that a good portion of them do. The Road Commissioner (Junior) said that the highway department The firs t3 do and the berry farm does, the library. – so yes, Chalres said a good portion does. Jujniro said highway gets grants usually every year. usually receives grants every year. Mr. Brooks asked what the grant situation regarding roads was presently. Stevephn asked grant sitguation regards roads presently. JuniorJunior said that the department gotreceived $35,000 in grants for the coming year. Stephen Mr. Brooks remarked that said seniors can raise funds in t ehe cocmmunitiy and it seem s like it would be reasonable to expect thej mthem to do more fundraising. He added that he wondered what amounts have come into the secret special fund of the Fire & Rescue department so far this year, because and Fire & Rescue wonder what’s ocme into the secret special fund so far this yedar and all they provided at budget tije time for discussiosn was the preoivusprevious year’s beignignbeginning and ending blanacebalance. He asked if Fire & Rescue could do any fundraising. and then can Fire & Rsecue to danya fudnrfaing:? Ellie Eleanor Russell said that she has talked to them about tthose things –and one reason they didn’t cut more is due to concern about staffingsome real concern abou tstaffing that town may have to support for rescue – cut their reuests ocndciedrably, Ellie said.. StephenMr. Brooks said also that the Fire & Rescuce department was recently granted a beqaeuwsteduest of $1 jmillinon, which they are expected to receive the income off from forever. The Probate process that get income off from forever and that is according to public records. Probate is almost finished so check s will stat ocmign soon. is almost complete, so the department should be receiving check(s) soon, he noted. ElliEleanor Russell agreed, but explained that at the tieme wethe Selectboard did this, , it was not still not ffinal thing and they view the budget as a living document. Charles Charles Russell said that, in the cas e of highways, if there is really $20,000 more in grants, and $8,500 is being cutting $85,00, it won’t impact greatly. Charles He also said that if the Charlotete Land Trust iddn’tdidn’t use their full $9,650 hnext yaeryear, that lefet over could be used to fill in Berry Farm or Library. Nancy Sabin asked said that when the bBerry fFarm came in for thattheir budget request, they made Iit clear that they weree goging goto fundraise and this sis the maximum the y eneeded. She asked if they have come back in or if anybody Have they come back in or has anybodyhas checked tgo see hoew much money they have raised to amintainteh maintain their project?. Ellie Eleanor Russell said no, but they have a bigger percent cut than anybody else on the list. All were in favor of the motion and the motion was PASSED. said, not but they have bigger cut than anybody else. Allin favor of motin for custs. APPROGVED.

Parking issues at Old Brick Store (Michael Frost)

Parking ISSUES at Old Brick Store

Michael and KarneKaren Frost, neighbors of the Old Brick STtore, - addressed the Selectboard to ask the Town to make decisions about aparking in front of their house. Michael Frost said that it has Bbecome a serious issue of how people park, Michael said – -- people park randomonly and not out of the flow of traffic. He said that the issues are erosion and the fact that many people leave their cars or trucks running andIssueds are erosion; many leagve cars running and diesel fumes comes into their house daily which creates a health hazard. Karen Frost showed photos of the area they were discussing. (Health hazard cuz its’ on a dialy basis) Ask perfmission or to in a way possibly eliiante parking in front of thei rhouse in such a way – Karen shoed photos. They expressed their concern that it was dangerous because parking isn’t really established there and kids bike down the street, as well as pedestrians. Parking isn’t really estalibshed there. Concner is danger cuz of kids in town that bike down the street. Seroius safety issue and concerned about liabiloity, hapahzed parking related issues. E Eleanor Russell asked if they had tried signs; Mr. Frost said no. Karen Frost said that, unless it is something that prevents people, it won’t work. dllike asked if tried signs. Micahel said no. Karen said that unless something that prevents them, it won’t work. Michael Frost suggested that, after meeting with Junior, to try a temporary curb that could be placed there that would take the site line of the road and continue it up straight. It would be made out of Micahel suggests afer metin gwith Jujnior to try a curb that could be pladced there that would take site lien of het raod and conitnue it up straight and mad eout of a temporary type of curbing and they wiould fill in the area between that and their property withand dirt. They are not 100\% set on knowing andswer – looking to get a buffer on their frontdoor. Michael Frost acknowledged the Old Brick Store owners at the meeting and told them that he and Karen do not want to create a problem; they just talked with store owners and said not wanting to creat ea problem – just want parking and they told them that they understand the store needs parking. – they undrefstandunderstand store needs parking. Carolyn Sennhenn, co-owner of The Old Brick Store, ____ from store said at the crunch hour, there isn’t enough room. and said that she and Rolf don’t even park at the store. Karen Frost said the volume They dohn’t even park around the store. Karen said volujme is different and the size of trucks is considrealbeyconsiderably more. ___Rolf Sennhenn said that nobody abides by the 25 mph limit. Charles Russell asked how many parking spots the Sennhenns would lose if the Frosts opted to om store said nobody does the 25 mph. Charles asked how majhny aprkgin spots lose if do the curb thingsolution. The answer was that 2 parking spots would be lost. Karen Frost said that they would said gi give them store the alleyway. Junior said another option would be to otpoinwould be to ppaint some lines and have “no parking” painted there. ___ folrmRolf Sennhenn store said that no one would take any notice of it. Michael Frost said that if people angle park along then gget more parking. Jujjhior said not enough room there.suggested angle parking, but Junior reported that there was not enough room for that option. Junior said they could just put lines in front of their house. Ellie Eleanor Russell suggested putting a planter there to detour traffic. Stephen Brooks voiced the issue and question of what the impact would be if a barrier was created; what is the precedent that you would create and what new said what is the I jmpact if create a barrier – what is the precedent that you create and then also in doing that what new liability exposures does the mucjhnicipality have to face because of creatihng something newthat new other ?. Dcharles Charles Russell answered and said there would be no liability due to sovereign immunity (the property is in the Town right-of-way). Dana Farley noted that the said no libality –soergein imjmunity because it is in town right of way. Charles said low curbing good. Iissue to this is that tTown has on 2w separate occatsions hired LA landscape architects to get a fix for this problem; – there are some plans somewhere in the tTown offices. She went on to say that –Julie Campoli did one, and – there is federal grant money out there. She said that the issues then were the Robert Mack’s s farm vehicles and making sure any fix did not impede access for them and there was also some concern about suburbanization (didn’t want to look like Shelburne). – issues were robertgs farm vehicles that iddnt’[ ijpede accedss for and some concedrns about suburbaniation (didn’t want ot look like Shelburen), so she think sit would be great charge to CPC and Slectobard to ask them to revisit the idea nd staff to hutn down funding (Dana Farley). Karen Frost said they have patienatolypatiently waited and the problem has gotten worse. S and the solution could be temporary and moveable. Micahael Frost said they are willing to pay for it. Chalres Charles Russell askedf for Rlpho’sRolf’s impression of the curb idea. Mr. Sennhenn said he had no problem with it. No rpboem with it he said. The Selectboard voiced their opinion that they were in favor of trying the curb idea. SB in favor of tyhring cur bidea out. Jenny Cole said that the old plans should be found. Jenny wants to hutn up old plans. ChlresCharles Russell directed Junior to supervise this project, which will involve putting in some kind of temporary curbing to the point where the Frost’s house ends to the west said Junir supervise this preojct. SB charged Juniro to put in some kind of temporary curbin with Frosts to the point where Frosts hosue ends ot het west. John Hammer asked who payhign – the Frosts are paying.

Report by Clark Hinsdale, III on proposed new barn at Nordic Farm

CLARK HIlark Hinsdale, III and Clark Hinsdale, Jr. approached the Selectboard to talk about the status of the building on Nordic Farm. NSDALE III and CLARK HINSDALE JR approached the SB to talk about barn stariting to building oNordic Farm. CH III give brief Clark Hinsdale, III gave an update on how things are prorfgtressing. He reported that the Mmanure pit issue has been appeale d dto the Supreme Court and that it is not resovlved yet,. so oOver the winter , the plans have been to look at putting a milking fialcility at Nordic and the end result of that analayssis is a building that will milk 280 cows. He further explained the Nnew technology that they will be implementing. It is– milking cows with robots. – cCows go when they are readyk, not on a set schedule as is the usual way. Also, they are working with the Departmentt of Agriculture on a methane digester that would create elecrictyelectricity out of methane generated by the manure, which also has the side benefit of eliminating the odor caused by the methane. and that has side enefit – cuz that what causes odor.

He went on to say that they will not be adding on to the existing barn, acknowledging that it is an icon. Therefore, the footprint will remain the same, but it will be reroofed and renovated into a facility for heifers. Decision to addon to barn – barn is icon – so footgprint and aspect and look of it won’t be hcanged- needs to be reroofed and renovate into facility for heffersl. It is beigng designed to use it for education and ag tourism in t ehe future, not just milking. FThe facility doesn’t use the entire land base and they hope that they can idnentify h some young farmers that might want tot utilize the existing barns when they become vacatedvacated in faor of Nordic barn. He next Sshowed the 2 exhibits which showed layout on a drawing which illustrated that they propose to build the new facility squarely behind the existing buildings (new barn behind existing barn). Proposd to building newfaicality sqauarely ehind existing uildlings. – (New barn behind exising barn in other words). Brining feed in to facility – very earsy to turhn riht with truck ihnto farmk ut hard to leave with a truck. They alsoSo plan to improve the road along the pasture meadow fence andto enable them to bea ble to go to Lijme Kiln a dnd abdkback to Mt. Philo Road. Not near rec path. He also noted that Ccomposting reduces the need for the manure pit by half.

Charles Russell inquired about the roof line. Clark Hinsdale, III said that the ridge runs parallel with the existing ridge line; it is a typical square right angle farm line. The proosd (250 x 150) new barn. Charlies asked roof line - ridge runs paralle with exising ridge line – typical square irhgrta ngel farm lijne, III said. He also said that as far as visibility goes, the best view of the Visibility – III said best view of new facility is going to be when you stop onat the stop singn going on old Route 7. Sylvia Knight asked if there was vegetation along the fence line on either side of Pizzagalli’s line. IIIMr. Hinsdale said said there was no gap in vegetation –; there is Pizzaggallis’s woods and driveway tgreeses and jmaples along Route 7 but the fence line frojm Rte Route 7 to the woods is open. IIIHe also said that they will begin to develop concept s and plans and come back and vistit more about that.

He next showed on the drawing that the barn will be divided into four quadrants. The robots Showed map that barn is divided into 4 quadrants. Robots live in the area where the cows are. (this is new barn). The robot company has installed Robt company has indatleld 1,800 robots in 25 countrires and most are single installoations. There is Nno particular benefit of size –; you need 1 robot for every 70 cows. Ellie Eleanor Russell asked if the cows ever went outside and Mr. Hinsdale said they don’t with this system. He said that if cows are given a choice, they prefer not to go outside when they are full. –no not with this sytem. III said though to raise good quality cows, outside is a very important compoentn. If given a choise, preer not to go outside when they arfe full. IN In the 9-mos cycles, they will be in the barn.
There are open sides and frans for ventilaitoion. There will be a Mmaternityh pen angled off in the back corfner for calving cows, which allows their movement from facility to facility without trucking them. Move from facility to facility without trucking them. DanaDana Farley asked about the nutrient jmanagemeent plan. III Mr. Hinsdale said it will be the same protocols as before; theye –p will still tesing test every fieldk, esetalibsignestablishing a rate of application. T\wo cohise expor manure back to valley or to compost it because amt of manure produced her somewhate larger.

The Selectboard thanked the Hinsdales for the report and also thanked them for the trail easement which they have assigned to the Town and which is now finalized. Thankfor trail eastmetn – Hindales asigend taril easement which is finalized.

Presentation of Recommendation by Rec. Cmsn. On Town Intramural Program

REC COMMISSION

Robin Reade addressed the PCSelectboard, as well as Ellen Russell____. Robin Ms. Reade sadi given prior recommendations abou tprogram. Tonight – more speifci thing –oreported that ted that salary should be
”$1,500 per sport for a total ofOF $4,500 PER YEAR..per year. That jmoney cojes out of budget and moenbhyhf or euiqapmetn and things be in fee –They voted at their meeting to also voted to charge $30 per kichildd for soccer and – set fes only for soccer. $60 per fajmiliy, which fee includes a t-shirt. . Fee includes t-shirts. Also They also voted that they should expand addveretising for the director beyhond the cCharlottee nNews because just in case somje good applicants are people that don’t look at that publication. They recommended advertising in The Burlington Free Press and/or Seven Days. – so go in Burlignton Free Press they would like and/or Seven Days. The Ddeadline for application s to be i n by July is July 1wstk, Robin set it. The final motion that they voted on at their meeting was that 3 representatives from the Recreation Commission would be available for the hiring committee – Bernie Boehlenalen, Final jmotion was that 3 reps from rec be aviable fo rhiring ocmittee, Bernie Balen, EleNEllen Russell and Jessie Bradley volunteered. Rusllea nd Jessy Bradley are 3 volounteers. Had

Ms. Reade requested somebody from the Selectboard go to the School Board to voice their need for an equipment inventory a request that need to go to school board or sometboydh from SB go to school board – need equipment inenveotry in order to ensure that the Recreation Commissionmsn has all the equipment they need for their intramural programs from Charlotte Central School. They also need to secureso have all sprots eqauipoemtn alviabale for intramural rpogram from CCS. Secure safe storage for this sporsts equipemetnt because sometimes gets inwhile it is stored in the Quoneset Hut, it and gets damaged.

Jenny Cole asked what sports are being offered. Ms. Reade answered soccer, basketball and lacrosse. Ellie askd aboutfunding – most is in salaries. Presonpaid per sport, like a stipend. Jenny asked what sport – soccer, basketball, lacrosse, Robin answered. Ellie Eleanor Russell will put Ellen’s job descrirpoitition in the tTown’s forma t this week. ChalresCharles Russell asked about maintenance of the fields. Ms. Reade answered that it will come in the future. askae dabout amitneanne of fileds; upgrade fields. Robin said come in future. Ellie asked who make dontact with shocol. Robin suggested SB make contact with school board about reqauest to get equipoejmtn inveontry and talk abou tsafe sstorage and ocnfifmirtn numbers of those involved. The SelectboardSB directed Dan Senecal-Albrecht to work on how the Town would be paying this new position,, i.e. stipend, town employee?

Open Bids for Brushhogging of certain Town lands

OPEN BIDS FOR BRUSHHOGGING

Dan Senecal-Albrecht said presented two bids which were submitte d idntin a timely manner and he verified that they were sealed. He opened the first one from Kurt Fischer and read it out loud - $3,300. He next opened and read the second bid out loud from Robert Mack, Jr. - $1,550. imely maner verifying that they are sealed. First bid from Kurt Fischer – Dan opened it – he read bid aloud – $3,300

Second bid from Robert Mack, Jr. - $1550,050 and foiur refences.

After a brief discussion, Eleanor Russell made a motion to accept the bid of $1,550 from Robert Mack, Jr. to use his services to brushhog certain Town lands, in response to the May 27^th announcement. Jenny Cole seconded. All were in favor and the motion was PASSED.

Ellie move to accept Robert bill and Jenny seconded as descirfb ein the bid fro $1,550 for brushhonggin as appeared in an aanoucnemtn dated May 27 announcement. All in favor – PASSED.

Approve permit request by Waitsfield Telecom to repair utility pole on Thompsons’ Pt. Rd.

Mr. Senecal-Albrecht read into the record the petition of Waitsfield Telecom. Eleanor Russell moved to approve the permit request by Waitsfield Telecom to repair the utility pole on Thompsons’ Pt. Rd. Jenny Cole seconded. All were in favor and the motion was PASSED. WAITSIFELD TELEDCOM Dan read in to the record – peitiotn of Waitfield Teelconm.

Elli moved to approve 0Jenny seconded. All in fovar – APPROVE.

Potential acquisition of Varney Farm by Town

POTENTIAL ACUWISITION FO VANRY FRAM BY TOWNThe Varney Farm has been offered to the Town for $1. Eleanor Russell has received responses on this subject, the results of which were 100% felt that the Town should accept the offer. However, the bigger question

Offered it to town for $1 the Varney Farm. Ellie got responses on this subject – 100% felt should accept offer to acquire fram for $1 – BIGGER QUESTION was what the Town should do with it. These were some responses:

· One person felt that they should not keep it in the long run;

· other people thought WAS WHAT DSHOULD DO WITH IT – ONE PERSON FELT THAT SHOJLUD NTO KEEP IT IN TEHL ONG RUN – SEERL PEOLE HTOUGHT sthat they should keep it and condsisdedr moving ethe building;

· recommendations for the use were equestrian center, – discussion about possible uses including equestraincetner, business center, contihneue to rent it (but some thought the tTown shodjnt’j bbe lalnldrdosshouldn’t be a landlord), – appoitint a comjmitteecommittee to disucssdiscuss uuesuses, look for garants for upkeepk, determine cost ofto tTown to amaitntain tit, affordable housing, need to find out resrcitionsrestrictions.

Dana Farley said that Davis (Dana reprsertning meter fund int his case) – no pressure on us to decide any time soon. David Cherington wants a memorandu m of understanding, though. . She also said that Dana said need to read the conservation easetmetnt needs to be read first to see about afforfdalbeaffordable housing. The Selectboard will schedule a site visit for next week. – Davdi sen d conservation easement to her in the meantinme – he will – site visit needs to be shceudled this week. HThe house has y6 bedrooms,k notw being rented by 3 idnivdiualsindividuals. The interior and the exterior have b – been papinted inerior and exterior, wriging been redone. and the wiring has been redone. The barn needs a roof. Barn needs roof. Reaonslbe to pursue ths, Ellis said, but need study to explore all possobiile ramifications of the optential uses. Discussion centered on the process of deciding the use and the time frame in which to respond to Stephen Rockefeller. We can make agreement without having decision on use. StephenDana said that Stephen has has offered an unspecicfiaed manmoutnt of moneyh to get a ptotentaia l preoject off the ground, Dana said. When Dand raise dthat issue with Davis, that is entirely put oth e town to propose.. Dana said another point was the future mainjteanacnce of the park at or near the standards wto which Stephen estalibshedestablished it would need to be is a facto raddressed in the MOU.

Eleanor Russell said that DDavdis told her that sadi $30,000 a year would be reqruired for burushohnginogging, landsacapingk, replacemetnt of roof, etc. to Ellie. Step[en said the owenr of het proepryt has proposed to sell to the Town foR $1 p is it far to say that the point SB is at now is to try and figure out whether they would like to consider tha offer? Yes. Chalres said need to do site visit first. Stegphehn said if did that and felt afoarlbek would you send owenr a letter – yes considering it please send a draft agreement. Edllie said yes, something like that.Dana Dana said Stepehen is looking for a very thoughtful plan with $dollars attachaeattached to it and teimfarmestimeframes and implemenmtatinoimplementation. Nancy Sabin asked could it be Aa plan instead of options? Danda said stephnthat Stephen is looking for a plan, not options. e is interested in A plan, not options. Jenny added to list –Jenny Cole mentioned acfcess to risidng rials on deetter park, and also about barnsa nd housek, therethe potential for mixed use and that would be incorporated into whatever the use is (affordable housing). is optential for mixed use – and mgith be incropreod itn athwa ever the use is (affordable housing) –For instance, the Noonan house in Shelburne was just purchased and will have 2 affordable housing units with a thrift shop downstairs and that is possible because it is connected Noonanosuje in sheubren will have 2 affordal bedhousing units in that hosue with thrift shop downstairs and that is possible because with a project further out of the village behind Gecewicz.

connected with rpeojftd futher out of village behind Gecewiz. So shouldn’t’ be smoothing disjmissed (affrodabh housing) might be incoproated what’s going on in other preopty (maybe Burs property). Dana suggested writing a l eteter to Stephen acknoweleodging that this meeting has taken place and asking if the Town could perhaps have an extension of the August 1 deadline to maybe the beginning of September. and a very friendly letter saying could we have an extension – theAugsut q1 date was menteiond and the town culd use more time. Maybe suggest begnning of September. John HammerJohn _____ said the logical thing to do is to hagve some sort of a plan; put down what you intend to do and the process. Dana said Stephen doesn’t want to encumber the Town, so town could write al tter tomorrow. .

Stephen Brooks voiced his said concern that here’s is a person willing to give the Town something and it seems like a nice opportunity and it would be unfoutanteunfortunate if this oppoprtutnityu runs scrfageis lost because of the lack of ability to get it toegether. Regardless of how much tiejme is necessary, it is a big enough h proejcftproject that the SelectBboard could identify immemdialtely a group of appropriate people that can make it happen. Ellie said need to bring in extra peple from town. ElliEleanor Russell asked if there were any suggestiosns of people in the tTown who would be good to let them know nowbe in this group. Dana –recommended Peter Richardson and Andy Roderick. JennyJenny Cole said that Peter might be interested. Dan Senecal-Albrecht suggested that the key thing is to noted this is property consistin gof buildings and the key thing is that jayb want to be cedratin that whatever do might want to et town vote, set on 4 options, but in the end, mayh want to put it to a tTown vote. Danda advised, however, that this process may take too long said should be fcareful because Stpehn is wrapping up one part of his life and moving into another and this is par tof it and the town vote thing may take too long and he’ll throw uphis handsand Stephen may get frustrated and “throw his hands up”. Dan thinks it could be feasible in the next coulple of motnths to think up 4 options and by Janayuary have a vote and easily relay this to Sptephen Rodfcfekeller asto settle on 3 or 4 otpions – as logng as he has a sense of finality. CharlesCharles Russell said that a Town vote could take place in early fall as well.could have tonw vot ein edalry fall as well.

Both Eleanor Russell and Jenny Cole agree on the idea of composing the group of core people to look at possible uses. Ms. Sabin expressed her concern that it is important that the cost of any proposal that comes should be conveyed to the taxpayers; also, she was inquiring whether the Town has to accept this for themselves or can it be something like a Hospice hospital and/or adult day care center, i.e. total non-profit? Ellie thinks need core of people to get together. Jenny thnks group of peole can look at list. Nancy says that anyh prosal that comes in its very imporatn to let taxpayer know the cost to the town and the other issue is that charlotte has been luckiyh with things – does the town have to cdcept this for tehsmelves or dfcan it be something as radical as a hospitce hospital and an adult day care center combined; can it be a total non-profit?

CharlesDana Farley suggested that the Selectboard contact Jeffrey Glassberg to come and take a look at the building and give his ideas on what is feasible and what is not. thinks go for month extensin – on Jly 14 have barnwstorming session in our meeting and come up with 4 ideas, identify people – chalres said in public meeting have anyone whoe intested to say ideas , narrow down to 4, etc. July 14 have it down to 4 ideas. Dana said invite Jeffrey Glassberg to come and take look at building and give town some idedas on what is feasible and what isn’t and take him on the site visit. He’s from Vergennes.She also said that Stephen’s most ideal outcome would be to continue to grace Dana said Stephen’s ]most ideal outcome to conitneu to grace and and respect the integritintegrity and elganceelegance of his original plan and he is ocncnredconcerned that whatever ahappenshappens tehere, it will continue to loklook the way it does today. Charles Russell asked for a special meeting to discuss this issue and asked if June 30 worked for everyone. Everyone agreed; there will be a special meeting on June 30, 2003 at 7:00 pm to brainstorm this issue. Charlesasked for special meeting before July 14 to discus it – proposed JUEN 30 and worked for everyone. – Juen 30 – brainstorjming meeting – public thing – posters around town, e.g.

Dana recommended SB to send letter to Sephen telling him what was decided tonight. Letter will talk about june 30 special meeting. Juen 30 7:00pm

Appointments to Town Trails Committee

TOWN TRAIL COMMITTEE

Dan Senecal-Albrecht directed everyone to the list of potential trail committee members (attached). Jenny Cole made a motion to appoint this ad hoc committee per the attached list. Ellie Russell seconded. All were in favor and the motion was PASSED. said he circulated a list for trail committee members (potential). Jenny moved to appoint this adhoc ocmmittee list. Ellie seconded. APPROVED.

Approve minutes of May 12^th, May 20^th, June 9^th and June 11^th

MINTUES

Move June 11 to next meeting

May 12, 2003 – Eleanor Russell moved to accept the minutes of May 12, 2003 with changes as noted. Jenny Cole seconded. All were in favor and the motion was PASSED.

May 20, 2003 – Eleanor Russell moved to accept the minutes of May 20, 2003 with changes as noted. Jenny Cole seconded. All were in favor and the motion was PASSED.

Move to accept minteus of May 12 – Elli 1, Jenny 2^nd. Stephen rooks had changes. All in favor with Stephen Brooks’ changes. PASSED

Mayh 20 – jmvoe to approve minteus of May 20 – Ellie. Jenny seconded. All in favor with changtes as noted. APPROFVED

June 9, 2003 – Jenny Cole moved to accept the minutes of June 9, 2003 with changes as noted. Eleanor Russell seconded. All were in favor and the motion was PASSED.

Juen 9 – Jenny move approve minteus – Elil e2nd – Stpehn Brooks ahd a minoir change - approved with changes as noted.

June 11, 2003 -1 – postponed The Selectboard decided to move approval of the June 11, 2003 minutes to the next meeting’s agenda.

Selectboard Updates

UPDATES

VELCO work – Eleanor RussellEllie talked to the CPCPlanning Commission about VELCO. – tThey suggested a small group (1 person from the Selectboard, 1 person from the Conservation Committee and 1 person from the Planning Commission) who would coordinate public input to have a full discussion. EleanorCharlie Russell asked Jenny Cole to be that representative. She accepted. SB, 1 CCC, 1 CPC) whou would coorfdinate public input to have full discussion that needs to take place about VELCO. Chalres asked Jenny to be that person. Fine.

Ellie Eleanor Russell also mentienoned that ourthe Town’s auditor has notified usthe Town that he is cutting back on his workload and wil ll not be serving cCharlotte in the coming year. Mary, so mayry i is in the procedss of calling a couple of other firms to see if they will take ourthe account and costs, etc and how much their fee is. Eleanor Russell also reported that the Town has received word from the State, notifying the Town that they have increased the Town’s Commonwealth Level of Appraisal to 84.6% from 79%.

Also did hedar from state grading comno lelve of appraiser they di dhear us and they increased our commonwealth of appraisal to 84.6% from 79%.

MOVING O F RR CARS – Dan Senecal-Albrecht talkead with rr guythe railroad person who is in change of cars and omovigng them around and he said, ypu explained that movement of cars happens at night because cusojrscustomers call usthem during the day and say they want cards available in the morning. He told him that he doesn’t think it will beint eh morning and doesn’t think it will be happening too much in the neare term f. Mr. Senecal-Albrecht said that he told him that the Town doesn’t have any legal control over them, but just wanted the railroad to be aware that neighbors are concerned and if they could try and call ahead, it would be appreciated. They said they would do their best. uture and Dan said we have no legal hammer ove ryou, just want yhou to know neighborhsare concerned to try and call ahead and ehll do the best he could.

THORP BARN

- DanMr. Senecal-Albrecht said that he had wrote an article for the Charlotte News reporting that the grant was delayed until January. He acknowledged the work done by 10^th graders from the Waldorf school cleaning out the basement. said reuest – dan awrote article to chalrote new s- garnt getitn daley eunti Janayruy – ackonwelodge work by 10th graders from Wlakfodr shocol to calen oru basement – Jenny Cole said that Dick St. George will get back to the Town to get the work done to prevent vandalism.

Jenny said dict st. goeg wil lcall and get back to us to get work done to rpevent vandalism.

PAITNTING OF TOWN AHALL -

This weekend the pressure washing will be done and the painters then hope to be here on Monday or Tuesday. This weekend pressure wash and hope to be here onmodany or Tuesday. Trevor Mack trail ben published – advedrisimetn for bid jUne 19 open bids July 10 – awared july 18 – alld one by Sepberm 18

TOWN PARTY – This will be discussed at the June 30, 2003 meeting. It was noted that the Selectboard should have a display at the party, as well as having a representative there.

Next Monday talk about that. JuNE 30 meeting. Make sure SB have display and have rep there from SB.

Sign billsSIGN BILLS -

Jenny Cole made a motion that the Selectboard agrees with the letter for computer appraisal services with the State of Vermont, Department of Taxes. Eleanor Russell seconded. All were in favor and the motion was PASSED.

Jennymoved to agre with letter for cojmpuer appraisal services with State of VMEornt Deapt of Taxes – Ellie 2wnd. APPROVE

ADJOURNMENT - Eleanor Russell made a motion to adjourn. Jenny Cole seconded. All were in favor and the motion was PASSED.

Ellie move to ajourdnThe meeting adjourned at 10:17 p.m.. Jenny 2^nd 10:27 p.m.APROVED>