South Berwick Citizen | 2004 Town Council Archive

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Archive of 2004 Town Council Meetings

posted January 21, 2004

January 12, 2004
Town Council Meeting

By Mimi Demers

                                  A New Library
    Discussion of the proposed new public library dominated the Town Council meeting of January 12, 2004. All council members were present, as well as about 40 members of the public. Councilor Richard Clough started off the conversation, saying, "There may be a misconception out there that this Town Council doesn't want a library...I can assure everyone that we do." Council chairman Robert Gagne agreed, but cautioned, "We're not ready to make any decisions tonight." He confessed that he was "...turned off on the whole project" when he heard the architect had suggested moving the soldiers' monument. Several people responded vehemently, claiming the architect was quoted out of context. Nina Mauer, who (along with at least 50 other South Berwick citizens) has been involved for some time as a member of one of several committees working on the project, stated, "The monument will never be moved...it is NOT an issue."
      Mr. Clough referred to a memo he had written to his fellow councilors in which he apparently detailed his own ideas. He suggested the library be built on the former "gully", recently filled, at the corner of Norton Street and Railroad Avenue. He proposed that the library would have a basement and be about half the size of the building proposed by the Library Advisory Board. But board member Jane Cowen-Fletcher pointed out that the new library would be required to serve the town for many years. Were a 5,000 square foot library to be built, she said, "...we're already 20 years behind when the doors open." Citizen Wendy Pirsig added, "I'm conscious of the fact that this has gone on for awhile." Pirsig, who worked on the site committee, added, "...our charge was to find a site that would hold a 16,000 square foot building. Where did we get that number? The South Berwick Town Council gave us that number."
      This led to a discussion of history, responsibility, and accountability. Ms. Cowen-Fletcher offered to have the original site committee reconvene if people were unhappy with the current proposed site near the Powderhouse Ski Hill. She acknowledged the time and efforts of the highly professional group and said, "I'd really like to hear their thoughts." Ms. Pirsig reminded the Council, "Your predecessors found they couldn't do it all...you turn to your committees...they are your deputies." But Mr. Clough countered, "Committees are appointed to give their opinion," adding that he didn't feel the Council should "just agree" with them. He also argued that "these are different economic times...now we have to be the bad guys."
      Several residents encouraged forward movement. Brian Dowd, a new appointee to the Library Advisory Board, urged, "Until you get going, get a site, you're just going to be chasing your tail." Town Manager Jon St. Pierre suggested "...taking a small bite tonight...to keep the process moving along." He will have the Railroad Avenue lot evaluated as a possible site. The library proposal will again be on the agenda at the next Town Council meeting to allow further discussion.

                           Cold Night for A Hot Topic:
                      The Granite Woods Development

      Another hot topic was the Granite Woods development, a proposed 70-79 lot subdivision located between Earls' and Belle Marsh Roads, which recently received sketch plan approval from the Planning Board. Several councilors expressed concern over the scope of the project and its rural location. They agreed to have the Town Manager write a letter to the Planning Board, to be read aloud at the Public Hearing about the project scheduled for the following evening, January 13, addressing several issues: the levying of "off-site improvement fees", borne by the developer, to mitigate costs to the town for various services (schools, roads, police and fire protection, etc.), contacting affected area towns to discuss concerns about road improvements, water quality, wildlife habitat, etc., and encouraging the use of professional staff when considering this large proposal.

                         Growth: How Much? How Fast?

      The council also tackled the issue of a growth ordinance for South Berwick. Councilor John Rudolph advised limiting the number of building permits issued each year to 40, basing his suggestion on the average number issued per year over the past several years. He also discussed breaking down the permits issued to a 60-40 ratio between individual and subdivision builders, with the majority going to individuals. David Versel, of Southern Maine Regional Planning Commission, in attendance as a professional consultant, seemed to think Mr. Rudolph's numbers were "right in the ball park." He suggested the Council may want to consider making some types of housing, such as affordable, or "workforce," or elderly housing exempt from the cap. Councilor Suzanne Roberge indicated an interest in workforce housing. "What's 'affordable' county-wide may not be 'affordable' here," she said. The Council set a date for a public hearing on this subject. It will be held January 26, 2004, at 6:30 P.M.

             What A Waste, Budgets, and Hot Dog Heaven

      In other business, the council voted on emergency legislation that immediately established a moratorium on new waste facilities. This action was in response to a proposal from Barletta Co. to build a solid waste treatment facility on its property on Route 236. The councilors agreed the issue requires further study and the town may need to update its laws having to do with waste disposal. Mr. Clough suggested a freeze on "non-essential spending" for all departments "...so we can see where the budgets stand now." He received little support. Ms. Roberge reminded the Council, "We pay a man to do that day to day." Mr. Rudolph noted, "It's a no-fat budget to begin with."
      Mr. Gagne advised the Council that in the future it looks like police and fire departments in individual towns will be required to pay for extraditions (chasing down "bad guys"), a cost formerly covered by the county sheriff's office. "This should be a county function," he said. "The police chiefs are upset."
      A public hearing date was set for February 9, 2004, 6:30 P.M. to discuss the issuance of a malt liquor license to the proprietor of Hot Dog Heaven, who is expanding his business on lower Main Street.
      The Council moved into executive session at about 10:00 P.M. to discuss legal and personnel issues.

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posted February 2, 2004

January 26, 2004
Town Council Meeting

By Rachel Schumacher

                     A Plan for a Growing Community

     A public hearing for a Planned Growth Ordinance was held prior to the regular Town Council meeting on January 26, 2004. Before the hearing began, Chairman Bob Gagne read the draft version of the ordinance to the audience. He stated that a total of forty growth permits would be issued per year. This permit would be broken down to a 40:60 ratio, with 40% representing permits issued within subdivisions, and 60% representing permits given outside of subdivisions.
      Planning Board member Dennis Smith had issues with the Planned Growth Ordinance and asked the council to think about another way to control growth. "You're saying you're promoting individual lot growth versus subdivision…A subdivision has a lot more restrictions on it," he said.
      Planning Board Chairman David Burke wondered how the council arrived at the number 40 for the total amount of permits.
      David Versel of the Southern Maine Regional Planning Commission has been working with the town on drafting the new ordinance. Versel, who was in the audience, responded that the number 40 was the average calculated after reviewing the number of building permits issued each year over the past ten years.
      Councilor Sue Roberge stated that the numbers for subdivisions were actually different than what were listed. This information was based on a series of events: At the January 12 council meeting, Versel made a presentation to the council about the planned growth ordinance. In it he included a chart that showed that the average number of permits given out by the town over the past 11 years was 38. That chart was given to each council member. But when councilors arrived at the January 26 meeting there was another version of the same chart with numbers penciled in that showed the 11 year average as 47. The difference was that Cummings Mill (the old shoe shop) and other multi-family projects were each listed as one unit on the original chart (because they each only required one building permit), but in the second chart each unit in each multi-family project was listed as a separate unit. In 2001, the year Cummings Mill was built, the original chart showed a total of 18 units built in subdivision, but in the revised chart that number increased to 72. At Monday's meeting, Councilor Richard Clough stated, and Councilor John Rudolph agreed with him, that Cummings Mill was an aberration. There will not be any more multi-family projects of that scale in the near future. Given that information, both councilors argued that the cap should reflect the average number of building permits given out over the past 11 years, as opposed to the higher figure that would result from an average of the total number of units built.
      After limited discussion from the audience, the public hearing for the Planned Growth Ordinance ended. Later in the meeting, the council continued their discussion of the Planned Growth Ordinance. Councilor Roberge wondered if the 40/60 split was fair with regard to multiplex units.
      Councilor Clough admitted that he wouldn't be opposed to a 50/50 split. He noted it would be in accordance with the current comprehensive plan. "We need to get it in place…if we hear from the Code Enforcement Officer it's a problem, we'll have to go back and amend it," Clough said.
      Again planning board member Smith raised concerns over the Planned Growth Ordinance. He assumed that the council had not sought any legal counsel regarding the ordinance and they were just "marching on" with it. He pointed out that currently the planning board is reviewing two large subdivisions. He asked the council to really think about what they are proposing.
      The council responded that Town Manager Jon St. Pierre discussed the ordinance with the town attorney and he had approved it.
      Councilor Rudolph responded to Smith's comments by saying he realizes that there are subdivisions in the works. He said as a property owner he is affected by the ordinance, "It's not something that is singling out any particular person."
      The council agreed to make an amendment to the draft ordinance that exempts the need for two growth permits when you're building a new structure to replace an old structure such as a mobile home. They also decided to change the yearly growth permit ratio to 50:50. This amounted to 20 growth permits awarded to individuals and 20 awarded to subdivisions. A decision was made to table the acceptance of the Planned Growth Ordinance until changes were made and the town attorney could review it once again.

Missing Minutes

During Public Audience, resident Norma Tutelian voiced questions regarding the Historic District Commission. She stated she went to the town hall looking for their minutes because she wanted to read what they had to say about the Colcord House and other related historic issues, but Town Clerk Barbara Bennett couldn't find any. She wondered why there are no records of minutes from their meetings. She explained that she was interested to find out more about the HDC because they seem to have a lot of authority.

Open Playground

Jeff Hoerth of the Children's Leadership Council made a "belated" announcement informing the council that the new toddler's playground is now open.

                          Budget Meetings Going Well
                      and Traffic Committee Appointed

      Town Manager Jon St. Pierre reported that the first budget meeting went well. He said the town report is being put together for the 2003 calendar year. St. Pierre also stated that the town is reviewing the York County Hazard Mitigation Plan, which reduces the impacts of natural disasters. It was written by Dave Versel from the Southern Maine Regional Planning Commission.

The council appointed Traffic Committee members Mark Gagnon, Pat Robinson, Jeff Hoerth, Anita Rosencrantz and John Rudolph. Their terms will expire September 30, 2004.

                                    A New Library

      Before the council's discussion of the new library commenced, a letter to the council from the Library Committee was read aloud. The letter outlined important issues that needed to be addressed, i.e.: the authorization of an adequate building site; the support of operating costs; and acknowledgement of money to to be raised privately.
(View letter here.)
      Resident, and former town councilor, Kathy Woodard spoke to the issue of the new library saying, "The majority of people in this community want a new library and they're willing to pay for it."
      Resident Ralph Stevens asked the council and the audience, "What are you willing to cut from the budget to pay for this?" Stevens pointed out that he and many others in town are on fixed incomes and would not be able to handle an increase in taxes to pay for a new library.
      Resident Jan Clark responded that you can't deny everyone what they feel is appropriate, nor can you deny something because a portion of the population can't handle it.
      Councilor Richard Clough said he wanted to clear up the misconception that the council doesn't want a new library.
      There was some discussion on the feasibility of building the new library at the site of the former gulley on the corner of Railroad Ave. and Norton Street. Jon St. Pierre asked Highway Department Director Terry Oliver to share his rough schematic drawings with the council. The drawings showed two scenarios for a library being constructed on the former gulley. According to Oliver, it would be possible to use the site; however it would require drainage work, excavation and relocating the roadway.
      Councilor John Rudolph spoke about becoming more and more cognizant of opinions like Mr. Stevens'. Rudolph said he has been investigating alternatives, like a tax rebate for people on fixed incomes. He also brought up the fact that 60% of our taxes are from the school board and no one goes to the school board budget meetings to bring up these issues.
      Discussion of the former gulley site brought up issues regarding parking spaces, relocation of the road and planning. Councilor Clough suggested a workshop between the Planning Board and the Council. The council set a workshop date for Thursday, Feb. 26 at 6:30 p.m. in the council chambers.

                     No Cap on Water District Salaries?

      Mike Nadeau from the South Berwick Water District came before the council asking for their "blessing" regarding proposed amendments to the South Berwick Water District Charter. The amended charter requested a bonded indebtedness of an undetermined amount, a provision where Water District Trustees could set their own salaries, and expanding the water district into the town of Berwick. Nadeau said the amended charter needs to be to the legislature by February 10, 2004.
      Councilor Rudolph took issue with the amended charter and pointed out two months ago, Nadeau came to the council with the need for a new filtration system at the Willow Drive Pumping Station. Now the water district was talking about expanding into Berwick to serve a subdivision, Rudolph said. "I feel like you're holding a gun to our head. We only have until February 10 to make a decision on this," Rudolph said. He went on to describe the process as non-inclusive. Rudolph also asked what kind of impact expanded municipal water has on growth.
      In response to a question asked by Councilor Clough, Nadeau said the SBWD will have excess capacity when the pumping station on Willow Drive is done. But, he added, without the authority to increase their bonded indebtedness they won't have enough money to finish the plan.
      Councilor Rudolph said he would not vote in favor of the amended charter until he sees a detailed analysis with a breakdown of costs.
      To this Nadeau responded, "Evidently there is no trust with water district officials. We won't get this done in time to satisfy the needs of the district."
      Councilor Clough tried to shed some light on the need for the bonded indebtedness which sets a limit on the amount of money the water district can borrow by issuing bonds.
      Councilor Rudolph repeated his request for the SBWD to come back to the council with a figure on the indebtedness of the district, laying it out with as much specificity as possible.
      The council agreed to table the action on the charter amendment until the next Council meeting on February 9.

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posted February 25, 2004

February 9, 2004
Town Council Meeting

By Mimi Demers

            A Planned Growth Ordinance for South Berwick

     The Town Council passed a planned growth ordinance which allows up to 40 building permits to be issued each year, to be divided evenly between subdivisions and individual builders. Before the vote was taken, Planning Board member Dennis Smith spoke from the audience. He shared his concerns about the ordinance, including its legality, and suggested a temporary growth moratorium should be enacted instead, which would allow time to discuss other growth management tools such as impact fees. He also said the new Comprehensive Plan, due to be completed this year should be considered before further action is taken. But the Council defended its plan. Councilor Richard Clough said he's, "proud we've stepped up to the plate...to protect our town." Councilor John Rudolph pointed out the Council had checked the wording of the ordinance with the town's attorney and Southern Maine Regional Planning Commission, and that the growth ordinance document is not brand new, but is based on an ordinance South Berwick used to have. He added that because other area towns have growth caps, South Berwick is a, "target for growth...we are leveling the playing field...so we don't get blind-sided by development we don't want." The ordinance will take effect in March.
        Councilor Sue Roberge noted that the ordinance will be reviewed in six months, "to address any problems that come up." Ms. Roberge acknowledged more input may have been in order. "We could have brought this to the Planning Board," she explained, "and we didn't." Council Chairman Robert Gagne countered, saying, " [the discussions have been] no secret. They also have a responsibility to come to us. Communication needs to come from both sides."

Questions about the Water District

The Council tackled a proposed change in the South Berwick Water District Charter. The emergency legislation (which will be presented to the state legislature) would have allowed the Water District's bond indebtedness to be raised from $4-million to $7-million. Water District chairman James DeWitt Sullivan was in attendance, as were other members of the Water District Board of Trustees. Mr. Sullivan responded to councilors' questions about the text of the legislation before them, sounding a just a tad impatient when asked how priorities are set and how the various government entities interact: "You have that...you have the entire report...it's a document that's updated every year and has been for 15 years," he said. But citizen Robert Brackett, a former member of the Maine Municipal Bond Association, had reservations and urged the Council to get more information. Town Manager Jon St. Pierre explained that the current request is a pared down version of what the Council looked at two weeks ago, and that the current document concerns only funds that stay in South Berwick.
Councilor Rudolph asked about the $2.5 million project to extend a water main down the Route 236 corridor as described in the document. Mr. Sullivan said that was a piece that was included a number of years ago when it looked like Watts Fluid Air might come to South Berwick. He explained the money may or may not be needed, that the project may or may not happen. Mr. Rudolph said he was "perplexed," and not comfortable with authorizing increasing the debt limit for, "an ill-defined...theoretical project." He asked, "If we took that item out, what number would you need?" Water District Treasurer Paul Klebauer did some on-the-spot calculations and came up with $5.2 million. After a bit more discussion, and with what seemed to be a tentative okay from the Water District members, the Council endorsed the amendment allowing the indebtedness of Water District to increase to as much as $5.2-million.

Norton and Railroad

Next, Mr. St. Pierre gave an overview of the history of the property at the corner of Norton St. and Railroad Ave, known as the gully. This piece was purchased by the town in 1994 after the Duchess Shoe Co. went out of business. Councilors had questions about the gully, which was recently filled (no longer a gully!), and is of interest as a possible location for a new public library. Mr. St. Pierre, who was Public Works Director when the project was done two years ago, described the site reclamation, which was complicated by drainage issues. Several councilors seemed bothered by the fact that most of the rather costly work was done without going out to bid. Councilor John Ford, however, protested, "I don't think we have to justify what was done four years ago." Citizen Norma Tutelian spoke from the audience: "I'm the one who asked (about this project). I've paid a lot of taxes to this town, and I'll ask questions if I want to!" Mr. Rudolph also defended the position, saying that looking at past issues, "will help us manage projects in the future." Mr. St. Pierre said he's, "confident it's now a buildable site...suitable for future development," but that it needs, "a year or two," to settle.

Other Business

       In other business, Mr. St. Pierre described the town's contract, up for renewal, with Maine Energy Recovery Company. Mr. St. Pierre recommended singing the contract for the longest possible term to take advantage of the lowest tipping fees
       A liquor license application for Hot Dog Heaven was accepted, allowing the newly expanded business on Lower Main St. (The Point) to serve malt liquor (beer!).
       A discussion about transfer station permits was tabled for further discussion.
       Parking on Academy Street in front of the Middle School was addressed. Mr. Clough said he is concerned that an emergency vehicle would be unable to get through at times when functions at the school cause people to park on both sides of the street. He advised the school board be approached. Mr. Gagne suggested simply having the street posted to conform to the code and asking the police department to enforce it.

The meeting was adjourned at about 10:00. P.M.

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posted March 11, 2004

February 23, 2004
Town Council Meeting

By Mimi Demers

Time Crunch for Budget Meetings

The South Berwick Town Council is feeling a time crunch as they move through the last weeks of the budget workshops. When Councilor Richard Clough asked if three more sessions would be enough, Town Manager Jon St. Pierre responded, "...it would depend on what level of analysis we want to see on each item." When Councilor John Rudolph asked if printing the town report could be delayed, Mr. St. Pierre said, "It's not the printer, it's the calendar...(we've got to) meet certain approvals and postings." Mr. Clough suggested postponing the Budget Public Hearing until April 12, allowing budget approval by the Council on the same night. But Mr. Rudolph pointed out this policy does not allow for much in the way of public input. The council decided to increase the number of budget workshops, agreeing to meet on three consecutive evenings, March 1, 2, and 3, then proceed from there.

Bike Race and Paved Roads

Terrence Parker, the town's representative to the Eastern Trail, gave the Council an update from the Eastern Trailway Management District about the bikeway which runs from Kittery to Portland. The town currently pays $5-thousand annually to the Eastern Trail, a move Mr. Parker encourages, since South Berwick "...has benefited directly in the paving of Knight's Pond Road, (and because) a lot of mileage here will get upgraded in the future." Most of the work in our town will be off-road, along the gas line, he said. He proposed raising the funds through the creation of a community event which would be a "positive attribute" for the town: a bicycle road race. He has done much of the preliminary work. The race he suggests will take place on Sunday morning, August 15, and will follow Emery's Bridge Road to Belle Marsh Road to Mountain Road, finishing at the lodge on top of Mt. Agamenticus. He called the route, with dirt roads and sharp climbs, "quirky," saying, he hoped this "race with a lot of personality," would attract riders from all over New England.

Great Works Drive Frustration

A small group of residents from Great Works Drive spoke during Public Audience, asking when they can expect improvements to be made to their road, which they described as in dire need of repair. Mr. St Pierre said this would be coming under review soon, but made no promises. He said it is sometimes "more fiscally responsible to put off a road that needs to be completely reworked in order to save a road that's 'savable' by putting on an overlay." Resident George Gray said, "We've been on the docket a number of years," and expressed concern about substandard drainage and consequent pollution of nearby waterways. Ronald Bousquet worried, "What are we going to do in the long term...when we have even more roads to maintain...which will come with new development?" Said resident Kathy Bousquet, "I think we've been patient."

New Appointees

Citizens Daniel Boyle and Warren Spencer were appointed to the Historic District Commission. Councilor Sue Roberge suggested new appointees to any town board be given appropriate written materials explaining process and the job requirements so that when different groups workshop together, "we're all on the same page." Mr. Rudolph suggested training through Maine Municipal Association, or some other organization. Council Chairman Robert Gagne agreed these were good ideas, but said this is, "not our job...it's up to the chairmen (to see to this)."
Ms. Roberge had a further suggestion concerning process. She said she was, "disturbed," by the verbal OK given by the Department of Environmental Protection concerning a decision made about drainage in an area of downtown ("the gully") several months ago. "For the protection of the town...something of that magnitude has got to be in written from this time on."

Assorted Other Business

        Mr. Rudolph had several announcements to make about upcoming visioning meetings and workshops, including a tourism summit on March 10. He pointed out South Berwick gets a very small percentage of tourist dollars, and suggested there is a potential to derive some revenue if we improved our, "tourist infrastructure." There is a planning session for the new library, regional workshops about growth caps, taxes, and other "big picture" regional issues, all open to the interested public. (Plenty for everyone! Please see our Community Bulletin or the SMRPC website). Mr. Rudolph also spoke about a referendum, upcoming in November, which he said will cap property taxes. "Were this to pass," Rudolph said, "we would be in very, very tough shape in this town...I encourage us to oppose (it)." Mr. Gagne agreed. "It would probably cripple this town and the schools," he said.
        The liquor license for Café Brio was renewed.
       The Council moved to Executive Session to discuss personnel issues. Upon their return, they voted two to two, with one abstention, on the confirmation of Terry Oliver as Public Works Director. Because of the tie the confirmation was not approved.

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posted March 24, 2004

March 8, 2004
Town Council Meeting

By Mimi Demers

                     Town Employees Support Oliver
     About 10 employees appeared at the town council meeting this month to back the appointment of Tery Oliver as permanent director of public works for South Berwick. Oliver has been interim director since December 2002.
      Town employees stood in solidarity for Oliver on March 8 as Roberta Orsini, executive assistant to the town manager, read a letter from about two dozen employees supporting his appointment. The letter praised Mr. Oliver's work as interim director, saying he has shown "great leadership" and is also "a comfortable team player." The letter also commended him for finishing projects "...under budget and ahead of schedule."
      Also, a second letter of support was signed by Conservation Commission Chair Jean Demetracopoulos.

                             Food Pantry for the Needy

      Also during the meeting, Council Chair Bob Gagne read letters concerning a proposal by several South Berwick churches to combine efforts to open a food pantry to distribute food to needy families.
      In the past, councilors have suggested the group use the old ambulance bay on Dawson Street. Some Council members have expressed reservations about the use of town property by religious groups.
      Town Manager Jon St. Pierre, who met with representatives of the group earlier in the day, said they were in the process of forming a board of directors "...so they have a structure...," and that they are close to concluding a lease arrangement with the town.

                  New Mt. A Conservation Coordinator

Citizen Bob Eger, representing the Mt. A Steering Committee, introduced the new conservation coordinator, Robin Stanley. Ms. Stanley spoke briefly about the continued improvements on the mountain, and plans for the upcoming season, including: a new bridge over the Chick's Brook dam, a viewing platform with interpretive signs, and expansion of the volunteer network.

Funds and a Workshop with the Planning Board

      The council also agreed to clean up and close out some of the town's Special Revenue Accounts, reserve accounts which have been set up for different reasons, often to fund special projects. The group decided to close accounts that are no longer pertinent and return those funds to the General Fund at the urging of Councilor Richard Clough.
       A workshop was scheduled with the South Berwick Planning Board for 6 pm April 6. Councilors suggested several topics for discussion: impact fees, fire protection options in subdivisions, solid waste processing, the new growth ordinance and the role of the Planning Board.
       "These are all big, meaty issues," said Councilor John Rudolph, "We'll be lucky to get through ONE." He wondered, "How do we prioritize agenda items?"
       Mr. St. Pierre suggested this may serve as an "introductory" meeting, the first of a series of workshops with both groups.

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posted March 26, 2004

March 22, 2004
Town Council Meeting

by Mimi Demers

Vaughan Fund

The South Berwick Town Council put in a long evening on March 22, 2004. The Board of Assessors meeting preceded the Council meeting and lasted well over an hour, as a large number of abatement requests were heard, debated, and voted upon. A Vaughan Fund meeting followed (the Vaughan Fund Board of Trustees is made up of the Town Council members) at which money management strategies were discussed.

Budget Workshops - A Long Process Almost Done

Town Manager Jon St. Pierre offered a summary of the budget process, now almost complete for the year. The process has involved a series of ten workshops held over the course of a two month period. "I think it's well thought through," said Mr. St. Pierre. He noted that at this time, the budget comes in lower than the 2002-2003 budget. The Council is scheduled to vote on the final budget on March 29th or 30th. A special public hearing about the budget will be held; the exact date and time will be announced at the March 29th meeting. The final vote on the budget will be made by the town at Town Meeting, to be held on June 7, 2004 at 6:30 PM.

Strawberry Festival Forever.
The Controversy over Off-Site Booths

       Several members of the Strawberry Festival Committee were in attendance to ask the Council to stop "unauthorized vendors," those who have set up booths off the Festival grounds on the last Saturday in June. Committee Chair Terri Poulin offered Councilors her estimates of revenue lost as a result of this practice. She suggested that the Committee, which uses its proceeds to support many of the non-profit organizations in town, loses between $13,000-$14,000 each year, since artisans rent their booths off-grounds at cheaper rates, and because festival attendees spend their money, particularly for food, off-grounds instead of at one of the food booths sponsored by South Berwick's non-profit groups.
        In a letter, Committee member Dennis Smith said the practice is "...in violation of the current zoning ordinance." But councilors weren't convinced. Council Chairman Bob Gagne wondered, "Would that be legal? It sounds almost like spot zoning." Council member John Rudolph said that he still hasn't seen what he had previously requested, "...specific citations...of what ordinances are being violated." Mr. Smith asked the town council to seek professional help from the town's attorney and Southern Maine Regional Planning Commission, but received no satisfaction.
        Committee members said they have no problem with downtown businesses setting up tables in front of their shops. But the discussion became too specific, and Council member Richard Clough cautioned, "How can we say you can, you can't, without sounding very discriminatory?" Mr. Rudolph suggested the Committee ask other towns that hold similar annual festivals how they handle the issue. "Right now, I can't see how you're going to do this in a fair way," Rudolph said.
        Ms. Poulin cautioned the long term losses could defeat the purpose of the Festival. "We can't survive on strawberry shortcake...we give money to the library, the schools, the community center...I love the Festival and I don't want to see it go away... (but) why bother doing it if we don't have money to give back to the community?"
        Council member Sue Roberge worried that the ten member Strawberry Festival Committee could get discouraged. "We need to work together toward some type of solution to this problem," she said. A solution, however, does not appear at all imminent. In the meantime, the festival will be celebrated this year, as it has for 28 years previous, complete with fireworks, a road race, strawberry shortcake, artisans, music, and much more, on June 26, 2004.

Planning Board and Town Council Merge for a Meeting

The council discussed the upcoming workshop with the Planning Board on April 6 at 6 PM. The two boards will talk about a number of issues, including: impact fees, and how they should be developed and applied, standards for solid waste processing facilities, what should be required for fire protection in subdivisions, the reasoning behind the newly re-enacted planned growth ordinance and how it should be phased, the use of professional consultants when a board is facing very large or unfamiliar issues, and more! Councilors agreed there is too much to cover in an hour. Mr. Clough suggested "...an overview of each (topic)" to lead into a further series of workshops.

Terry Oliver Appointed!!!

The Town Council finally confirmed the appointment of Terry Oliver as Public Works Director by a vote of three to two. Mr. Oliver has been interim director since December, 2002. His appointment had been the subject of ongoing closed door discussions by the Council and Town Manager for several months.

Other Business

        In other business, Mr. Gagne read a letter from the Fire Chief suggesting that South Berwick fire engine #4 be donated to the Burlington, Maine, Fire Department in memory of former firefighter Jason Dobson, who died in a car accident in December, 2003. The topic will be a future agenda item.
        Mr. Rudolph described the York County Economic Development Summit, which he attended on March 19 in Biddeford. He gave an overview of a number of subjects covered, including the potential shutdown of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and what we can do to prevent it, opportunities for developing our downtown and our tourism potential, energy conservation and energy audits, and regionalization of public works, police, schools, purchasing, etc.

        The sewer project on Agamenticus Road will begin on March 29, according to Mr. St. Pierre.

        Mr. Rudolph asked about the York Planning Board's request for joint review of the proposed Granite Woods subdivision off Belle Marsh and Earl's Roads. Mr. St. Pierre said he hoped the issue could be resolved by the attorneys representing ATP, Inc., the developer, and the Town of York, who are presently looking into the issue.

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posted April 28, 2004

April 12, 2004
Town Council Meeting

by Margaret Brentano

     On the evening of April 12th, after a brief presentation by Town Manager Jon St.Pierre and a yet briefer discussion by the Councilors, the South Berwick Town Council approved the 2004 - 2005 budget. The public hearing was sparsely attended. Former council member Gloria Roberge, who arrived at the meeting after the budget public hearing had already ended, thought the hearing had been insufficiently publicized and said: "For years this place would have been packed. It looks as if you're trying to avoid having too many people around." The town at large will have a chance to vote on the 4.4 million dollar budget at the annual Town Meeting, to be held June 7th this year.
     Over the course of the evening the Council carefully examined a lengthy agenda of issues, including:

                                  The Food Pantry:
      The Council agreed to sign a lease letting town property at 47 Ross St. to the group forming a South Berwick food pantry. Dave Stansfield, who is on the Board of Directors for the new pantry, invited councilors to join the board and thanked them for the lease, saying "The people who use the Food Pantry will not come in this room to thank you, so I'd like to thank you."

                      Summer Transfer Station Hours:
      The Council resolved that from June 4th until September 10th this year the Transfer Station will be open from 3pm until 7pm on Fridays.

                                    Town Library:
      The Council studied the architect's preliminary plans for a one story version of the library, with parking for 20 cars, to be built on Norton Street. The Council also discussed writing a letter to the Rollinsford Board of Selectmen about the possibility of sharing a library. Councilman Richard Clough opposed joining forces with Rollinsford: "Whenever we have these joint ventures, this town always pays the lion's share of the joint venture. I don't think it's a good idea for the town," he said and spoke about the difficulty of working across state lines. Suzanne Roberge, who eventually decided in favor of writing the letter, explained the advantage of receiving funds from both towns: "When the new library comes on board, even South Berwick residents are going to have to pay a fee to be members. These operating budgets are getting larger and larger every year."
      The council rejected the idea of a workshop with the Jewett Eastman Committee to appeal for $1000 in tax relief. This Committee maintains the current library building; it pays the town a tax on the building because it rents out an apartment to offset expenses. (This reporter serves on the Jewett Eastman Committee.) Richard Clough said: "They're a private entity; I'd like someone to pay my taxes too."

                                Portsmouth Shipyard:
      Councilman John Rudolph made an effort to increase the amount the town is contributing to the Seacoast Shipyard Association (the SSA), which is lobbying to keep the Portsmouth Shipyard open through the next round of base closures. In past years the town has given the Association $400, this year councilors increased the sum to $500. Rudolph, (who reminded the Council that Portsmouth, which sends fewer employees to the base than South Berwick does, is giving $10,000) wanted to increase the town's donation to $2,000. "I can't tell you how important I think this is," he said, "It's that people's livelihoods are at stake." Richard Clough disliked like the idea of altering the budget: "If you increase that budget line to $2,000 you're going to have a darn hard time decreasing it next year." The Council decided to postpone this discussion to the Agenda of their next meeting.

                                Public Works Update:
      Terry Oliver, the Public Works Director, described the new four-town Storm Water Management Plan, which ought to save the town thousands of dollars, especially in conjunction with a multi-town grant of $100,000. Oliver also announced that the town has received a grant of $10,000 to work on the Counting House Park. Implementing this grant, which will be used to add walkways and low plantings to the park on Liberty Street, requires establishing a special account to track spending, and therefore Councilman Clough, who objects to the town's numerous special fund accounts, voted to decline. But the majority of the Council voted to accept the grant, which needs to be spent by the end of 2004.

John Rudolph announced that the next meeting of the Traffic Committee would take place at 7 pm on May 4th. He said: "We always like lots of company."

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posted May 22, 2004

May 10, 2004
Town Council Meeting

by Barbara Boggiano

Half Time at the Assessing Office

     Councilor Richard Clough said that Council still has not received the Planning Board minutes from about three meetings ago. Town Manager Jon St. Pierre said that as soon as the Planning Board meets, they will approve the minutes. Clough felt that Council should have one set of minutes in every packet.
        Clough said he is concerned that Jeff Waterhouse is in the Assessing Office only one day a week instead of two and wanted to know if that situation had been resolved. St. Pierre said that we have contracted two manned days a week. The Manager explained that Jeff has been called to work in another town for two weeks and someone else will be in the Assessing office. Clough said this situation will be frustrating for a taxpayer who comes in and needs a quick answer.
        St. Pierre felt the town could live with two weeks, but if it goes beyond that, than there will be a problem.
        Clough wanted to know who the calls could be directed to and the Manager said to have the calls directed to him. Councilor Rudolph wanted to know why Council was even discussing this since it seemed to be an issue for the Town Manager and it is his responsibility. He felt there was no reason why the Council should be discussing something as minor as a contracted person not being around for two weeks.
        Clough reminded Council that they are also the Board of Assessors and it is their responsibility, and the town is paying for this service. He said he does not want to see this go on every two months because he feels the town is not getting the full benefit of the contract.
       St. Pierre said that Jeff has been at the Town Hall constantly and that Council should think about his absence as if he were on vacation. The Manager said, however, that a two month period is unacceptable.

Other Business

       Councilor Ford said he had a few items to discuss, the first being an e-mail he received from Mrs. Cachon last week on Bennett Lot. Cachon wanted to know if the end of the road could legally be closed to fire protection and recreation. He said he had a conversation with the Town Manager and it is not one of the town's roads. Ford asked if the Manager could respond to Mrs. Cachon.
      Councilor Roberge said that the Vaughn Fund Workshop has been rescheduled so everyone could attend. She said that there will also be a workshop for the transfer station.
       Roberge also asked if the Council could have the budget summaries on a monthly basis until the end of the fiscal year. She also said that the Council needs to get back on track with the Water District and Sewer Department workshop.
       Roberge said she was on Black Swan Drive and she would like to have the Public Works Director take a look at it. Roberge said one of her concerns was that the concrete sidewalks are breaking up. She asked that the Council be on top of these sub-divisions as they come before Council. She felt that these sub-divisions should be quality sub-divisions as it is more of a burden to repair these problems later on.
       The Town Manager asked if he could contact the contractor to see if something could be done. He felt that continuous inspections are needed because a lot more could go wrong. He said both he and the Public Works Director have been out to see the situation.
       Chairman Gagne said from what he heard from Roberge regarding subdivisions, the developers need to be told about the ordinance. He said he is not in agreement with the variances that they are granted. He cited the fact that there is a 600 ft. limit on the cul de sac yet the developer was granted one for 2000 ft. Gagne said they need a full night to meet with the Planning Board. Clough suggested setting up another workshop and Gagne agreed.

Town Manager's Report

       The Manager reported that he asked Wes Kennedy to be the Moderator for the Town Meeting and Mr. Kennedy agreed.
       St. Pierre reported that the Comprehensive Plan grant contract has been extended to May 15, 2005. He said the members are meeting with State representatives to review the comments available to read.
       The Manager said that regarding the Vaughn Fund account status hand out of last week, the bottom two categories approach $100,000, which is more conservative funding than what he had talked about. He said perhaps the Vaughn Fund trustees can review the package and come up with suggestions.
       Ford said he would like the Council to be involved. Clough asked if that could be done on Monday. Roberge said Council already will be talking about the Purchase policy and the transfer station.
       The Manager said a workshop with the Planning Board could be set up for another agenda.
       The Manager said that he has received a draft of the Conservation Plan, which covers the Agamenticus region. He asked for Council recommendations and that they take it home to look at it and return. Gagne suggested that one copy be put in a member's box and then they could circulate it.
       Rudolph said that he and Gagne are on the Comprehensive Plan Committee and they should communicate that the Committee should change their meeting night to another night when they both could attend.

Unfinished Business

1. Take action on letters regarding storm water management funding. Council approved sending letters to Rep. Tom Allen and Senator Snowe and Senator Collins.

2. Update on potential library site. Cynthia Gagnon spoke regarding the Railroad Avenue site. Rudolph said he is on the traffic committee and there is the possibility of the Route 4 by-pass loop going through that area. Clough wanted to make a motion and Roberge felt that the Library advisory board needed a consensus on the direction they should be going. After a good deal of discussion it was voted 3-2, with Roberge and Rudolph in opposition to advise the Library to proceed with the Railroad Ave. site by Cummings Mills.

3. Discuss Vine Street proposed parking restrictions. Ford was concerned about the cost ($6500 for four spaces). Gagne felt it should be part of the ordinance because it would be difficult to enforce if it was not. Council directed the Manager to ask the Great Works Regional Land Trust if they wanted to help pay for the cost since the spaces were in front of the pond. Council briefly discussed temporary signs but enforcement would be an issue.

4. Discuss zoning land use table. The Manager said that Chuck Morgan and Paul Schumacher of Southern Maine Regional Planning Commission would be coming down next week and since Paul was involved with the history of the ordinance, asked if Council could wait until Paul offered his input. Council agreed.

New Business

       The Manager said the town received four bids for lawn mowing, with the low bidder being Gilpatrick of Lebanon. The Manager said the difference was only $1958. Council voted to award the lawn mowing bid to Eastman's Lawn Mowing Service because he is a local contractor and is conveniently available if any thing needs to be done. Council felt the "home rule" should apply.
        Regarding the Academy Street project, the Manager asked Council to hold off on the reconstruction as K.A.C.T.S. is doing a study on Route 236 and he is waiting for the analysis. Council agreed. The Manager said that the sidewalks can still be repaired.
        Chairman Gagne talked about the traffic on Main Street turning into Dunkin' Donuts. He said he almost got into an accident the other morning on his motorcycle with someone who wanted to park in the roadway to get across the street.
        One of the crossing guards, Norma Tutelien, said that they have almost gotten hit by cars turning left into the parking lot. She said they will be meeting with Dana Lajoie and Chris Burbank to talk about this problem and what can be done.

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posted May 29, 2004

May 24, 2004
Town Council Meeting

by Barbara Boggiano

Important Dates to Remember:

     June 7th
  Town Meeting - Community Center, Norton Street

     June 8th
  School Budget Vote, 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m., Town Hall

     June 14th
  Public Hearing, Traffic Ordinance - 6:30 p.m., Council Chambers

School Board Talks School Budget:

    Council heard from Board members Susan Pullar, Ellen Breed, and David Allen who discussed the 2004-05 School Budget. Mrs. Breed said that flyers would be going out in the mail, but basically, the submitted budget represents a 4.5% increase over last year. This is due to three major factors:

      -- Diminished State funding - the town has lost $1,000,000 in           State funding over the last two years;

      -- Transportation costs for Special Education students -           attending out of district programs, etc. and

      -- Health/Pay increase - contractual obligations

      David Allen spoke about the facilities - there are five buildings and a lot of major work has been put off, but maintenance must be done. Mr. Allen said the Board is concerned primarily with safety issues. On a recent visit, Mr. Allen noted that rubber strips on the stairways are loose. Ideally, the Board would like to hire someone to make the necessary minor repairs in-house.
      Sue Pullar spoke about the Transportation issue. The Board is looking into leasing their own vehicles which could save $40,000 a year and to hiring a mechanic rather than a service contract. Mrs. Pullar noted the State is allowing them to purchase three buses, and they will be reimbursed. Mrs. Pullar also mentioned that due to the State's reduction in aid, the Board may have to institute a user fee - where students pay to use the bus, i.e. for athletics, field trips, marching band shows, drama festivals, etc. Additionally, the Board is looking into in-house snow plowing versus contracting out.
      Mrs. Breed wanted to mention that there is no reduction in force scheduled yet. She said that overall enrollment has been flat; however, there is a greater number of students entering high school in the Fall, where elementary school enrollment is down. To compensate for a bigger Freshman class, two full-time teachers have been hired - one math, and one Social Studies.
      Councilor Ford and Councilor Clough noted they saw half-empty buses riding around town. Councilor Ford asked if there was any action being taken to increase the number of students riding the bus. Mrs. Pullar said she would check with the Transportation Director and the Assistant Superintendent about that and get back to Council.
      Councilor Clough wanted to know what happens if the budget gets voted down. Mrs. Breed replied that they revert back to this year's budget. She said, by law, this allows them time to get another warrant - they have sixty days.
      Mrs. Breed pointed out that they already "pay to play" by being in the Boosters, and that the Booster Clubs contributed towards the lights on the field.
      Chairman Gagne wanted to know about the community resources officer. Mrs. Pullar answered that the Board is looking into getting a grant.

New Program For Land Use - Pine Tree Zones:

     Chuck Morgan and Paul Schumacher of Southern Maine Regional Planning Commission were present to talk about a new Economic Development program, specifically, a Land Development District - passed last year by the Legislature - referred to as the Pine Tree Zone. Mr. Morgan explained that if a business moves in to a particular area or if a business exists in a Pine Tree location, and if they create jobs - they are eligible for certain tax benefits. (Note: A Pine Tree Zone is an area the Town would designate where these benefits would apply.) Discussions focused on the Industrial Zone. He said that Central Maine Power would offer a discount for a business located in Pine Tree zones.
     Mr. Morgan noted that the business would have to engage in manufacturing, financial services or technology. He stated that municipalities have voiced concerns regarding cost and losing control. Mr. Morgan explained that the town would still retain control over economic development - and TIF (Tax increment financing) is optional.
      Mr. Morgan said since this is a new program he was not sure what administrative costs would be. He noted that an advisory committee would be made up of member communities. Mr. Morgan said that a public hearing would have to be held, and a resolution signed by the governing body.
      Mr. Schumacher gave an overview of what is happening in the region. He said they are not seeing companies coming in from Massachusetts, but rather local businesses are expanding. He said they are seeing smaller manufacturing companies in transportation-related activities. Mr. Schumacher noted that a study was done about industrial park land and there is a real need for existing business sites of 10,000 sq. ft.
      Mr. Morgan explained that Southern Maine Regional Planning Commission is looking into the costs from a regional project venture and said there are about 10 to 15 communities interested in economic development. He said SMRPC could do advertising and promotional campaigns for the towns and it would be more economical.
      Councilor Roberge wondered about the incentive to support the Economic District and about the unemployment rate in Southern Maine. Mr. Morgan explained that it varies and there are a couple of factors to consider; namely, the community's labor market rate would have to be higher than the state's. He cited as an example that Sanford would qualify. Mr. Morgan also cited the County average - and that York County qualifies.
      Mr. Schumacher discussed some sites with Council.
      Mr. Clifford Cleary said that an Industrial Park is long overdue and it should be considered by a referendum vote. He felt the Council should think about it - to get industry that will benefit the town instead of more housing.

Other Items Discussed:

     -- Placement of political signs
     -- Animal waste on people's properties
     -- Room/Facility Rental policy
     -- Salmon Falls Nursery provided mulch around the Post Office          and on Main Street

-- Moratorium on Solid Waste Facilities - extended 180 days - to run out July 11th. This is the maximum extension.

-- Dispatch Agreement with Berwick - was signed by the Town Manager.

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posted June 28, 2004

June 14, 2004
Town Council Meeting

by Barbara Boggiano

Town Manager Resigns

Chairman Gagne read a letter of resignation from Jon St. Pierre as Town Manager, saying that he wanted to return to the private sector. Councilors voiced their appreciation and thanks to Jon, who offered to stay and help with the transition.

Traffic Ordinance

      The Council held a public hearing on an amendment to the Traffic ordinance, prohibiting parking on both sides of Vine Street from June 15th through September 15th. The location: Brattle Street to a point 1300' south of the intersection with Old Mill Road, except in designated spots north of the bridge, where parking is allowed only from dawn to dusk.
       Ernie Wood of 6 Hill Drive said he was not there to oppose the ordinance but wanted to make some points. He said the archeological dig goes on at the Chadbourne site on Vine Street and this summer, about 300 Chadbourne family members will hold a reunion at Berwick Academy. Also, Mr. Wood said the Old Fields Burial Ground contains graves of Joseph Hayes, who fought in the Civil War, and Captain John Hamilton. He felt that the town should limit abuse, but proactively encourage visitors to the area. He said members of the Historical Society have suggestions regarding cemetery parking and the archeological dig. Mr. Wood also mentioned that many people are doing genealogical searches in the summer and are in the cemetery looking for their ancestors.
      Council discussed these points and suggestions for special permit to be issued by town so Chadbourne family members could park. Mr. Wood was not sure how many would be attending. Also, they decided on a 30 minute time limit for parking space by the cemetery.
      Norma Tutelian said that the Town Office is closed on Wednesday and weekends. Permits could be available through dispatch.

Board of Assessors

Council granted abatements (#110, #112, #113, #106,#109, #114) for various reasons, which were discovered after the re-val was done. Council did table one abatement application for Map 27, lot 22 for further consideration and to get more information for the next Board of Assessors Meeting. Abatement #114 concerned the Field Farm condo unit being assigned a land value, and Councilor Rudolph felt a procedure should be put in place - because the same thing happens continuously. He felt maybe the Planning Board could work with the Board to come up with a procedure.

Eagle Scout Project

Thaddeus Webster said as part of his community service project, he would like to increase awareness and visibility to the Town Forest by putting a sign by the entrance on Knight's Pond, erecting a kiosk with information regarding plants and wildlife there, and clearing trails as well as making creating a new trail about one mile long. He said that he would ask the Boy Scouts for help and asked the Council's permission to start. Councilor Clough asked that it be placed on the next agenda for formal action and thought that it is a worthwhile project.

Comprehensive Plan

The Planning Board's letter regarding the Comprehensive Plan, which is pending adoption, was read by Chairman Gagne. Due to the time and effort, he said, it is very important that the plan be implemented into a long term plan for growth and development. This would best be completed by a vision committee, which should be established as soon as possible - before adoption. Council should appoint four town residents. Initial discussion included members from the Town Council, Planning Board or Board of Appeals.
The Vision Committee could make specific recommendations to implement the plan. Councilor Rudolph said it should be on a future agenda. Councilor Clough agreed, saying the Council has not seen the update. He said they should see it before they appoint the Committee. He said he would like to see what the State has done with plan. Councilor Roberge said there is a timetable - the plan has to be approved by a certain time. She hoped that it would be back this summer.

Comments by Public on Signs

      David Webster, 15 Pond Road, spoke about the signage on the islands in town. He said he had mentioned this to the Town Manager as well as Councilor Roberge. He said the Manager has spent a lot of time, planting trees around town and many volunteers have "adopted" islands. He said his family adopted the island at the end of Route 236. He said he spoke to the State about all the signs and sandwich boards. Mr. Webster said that under State law, the municipal ordinance has restricted control. He wanted to know if any other town had an ordinance regarding the placing of signs. Mr. Webster said there should be an ordinance prohibiting the placing of signs on islands in town. He said people are not careful putting up signs and they step on flowers and bushes.
      Norma Tutelian thought the Town had an ordinance. She said someone took down the signs and brought them down to the Transfer Station. Councilor Clough said that there is a section in the zoning ordinance where non reflecting signs are allowed in the business district, but there is nothing specific about political signs.
      Councilor Roberge said that one area could be used for political signs and maybe that is something Council should consider talking about.
      Cliff Cleary said that Council should consider limiting the political signs for a short time period, and not 15 signs in a five foot area.
      Sandy Tucker said that at the end of Old South Road, there were so many political signs up, she felt it was a traffic hazard. Chairman Gagne agreed.
      Mr. Webster said that the State told him the Road Commissioner has the authority to remove signs.

Energy Audit

During the budget process, there was a discussion about the energy audit being done on town facilities. The Maine Public Service Commission contracts to have audits done on buildings without charge and will make recommendations as to rebate programs the town can benefit from. The PUC said they do not do energy audits on street lights or town vehicles, but the Town Manager will get information from other sources.

Other Items

a. Great Works Drive project should be decided in the next six      weeks
b. SMRPC /DOT meeting to discuss traffic issues
c. Eliot Selectmen invited South Berwick Town Council to a joint      workshop to discuss the November referendum (Palesky      initiative) - July 1, 15, 29th at 6:30 p.m.
d. Members from the three Berwicks want to form an exploratory      committee regarding a joint transfer station - suggest two      selectmen and Councilors for a total of six persons
e. July 19th at 6:30 p.m. - workshop to discuss renewal of MRI      assessing contract
f.   July 21st Workshop with Conservation Commission to discuss      discontinued roads for public easements and the use and care of      public land
g. Food Pantry Grand Opening July 1st and Council will receive      invitations
h. Special Town Meeting Monday June 28th at 6:30 p.m. to sign      warrant
i.   Re-appointed board and committee members
j.   Appointed Dennis Smith as a regular member to Planning Board      and Cheryl Dionne as an alternate.
k. Liquor License renewed for The Links at Outlook Golf Club
l.   Council accepted offer from the trustee of the Florence S.      Wentworth Fund pending legal counsel to make sure it is      appropriate and would like to have it in writing. George Gorman      said that money would go to the Fire Department
m. Hiring a firm to gather GASB-34 accounting info
n. New library site

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posted August 4, 2004

July 12, 2004
Town Council Meeting

By Barbara Boggiano

Public Hearing on Pine Tree Zone

The area known as the Pine Tree Zone includes properties located primarily along Main Street, parts of Portland Street, parts of downtown and along Route 236 across from the High School, which includes a lot of acreage. Jon St. Pierre explained that Chuck Morgan of Southern Maine Regional Planning Commission needed the resolution signed by Council by the end of the month – as part of the application to the State. The Manager said there is no guarantee that South Berwick would be accepted as part of the program. Mr. St. Pierre also said that he had contacted Cathy Goodwin at the Greater York Chamber of Commerce, of which South Berwick is a part, and they are interested in working with the town on this program. Council approved resolution.

Board of Assessors

Supplemental Tax Bill should be sent to the York Land Trust for property identified as 05-022C-1 for 4-1-02.
Abatement granted in the amount of $1182.89 for property identified as 27-22A, which in fact does not exist.

New Library Update

The Building Committee is meeting 7:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 15th and more definitive information will be submitted to Council after the meeting regarding site, plans, etc. A letter is being generated to send to all the people who have worked in some capacity for the Library – asking for financial support. An article will be in the paper. The Committee is requesting that Council consider going out for a bond next June but Council was reluctant to commit to that. The Cummings Mill Building site will be discussed at Thursday’s meeting. The Town Council would like a comparison between a new building and putting the library in the Cummings Mills building. Discussion of whether or not motion to approve site on Railroad Avenue needed to be reconsidered. There was concern about safety issues in the building and that a feasibility study had been done on the Cummings Mill building and it was not a viable option. There was additional concern regarding possible damage to the books if the sprinkler system goes off.

Other Information

       Workshop to discuss the Tax Cap Proposal scheduled at the Eliot Grange Hall on Thursday, July 15th at 6:30 p.m.
       Bennett Lot Road Workshop – letter should be sent to property owners.
       $25,000 from Wentworth Fund put in Fire Department capital account.

South Berwick Water District Extended to Berwick?

South Berwick Water District letter was read by the Chairman requesting that water be extended up Route 4 to a proposed Berwick development and that Berwick would help pay the costs. Mr. Nadeau said that a petition was filed with the PUC to extend water services. Council requested a letter be sent to the Water district and PUC with their concerns, which included impact on the South Berwick rate payers and the impact on emergency services, such as the fire department. Also Council was concerned about the impact on the town’s ability to provide water to South Berwick residents without jeopardizing the quality of the taxpayers’ water supply. The Town Manager said he called Mr. Nadeau and asked to have a meeting with him and the Board of Trustees. Council requested that the Trustees meet with Council as well.

Public Input

Ralph Stevens asked about the granite curbing on Agamenticus Road and the effect on the environment. Mr. Stevens was also concerned about cluster development and the stop signs in Old Mill [on Quarry Drive and Beaver Dam Road].
Councilor Clough suggested taking a look at the stop signs when they address the traffic ordinance.

Jeannie Demetracopoulos, Chair of the Conservation Commission, read a letter from Land for Maine’s Future supporting the referendum in November, which helps preserve farmland. Through bonds, the LMF has bought land for the residents to permanently retain South Berwick’s rural character.

Update on Vine Street Parking Situation

The Town Manager reported that 15 cars were ticketed last Sunday, though none have been towed. He said towing will begin in two weeks.

Road Project Update

       Agamenticus Road – curbing almost done
       Academy Street Recommendation: two 11 ft. travel lanes, with two 8 ft. parking lanes – with five foot parking on the school side. Want to finish the project before school starts.
       Great Works Drive – Manager needs to speak with Sewer District before recommendation is made

Municipal Resources Contract for Assessing Services

Council approved contract with amendments – which will be brought back to the next Council meeting for signatures.

Workshop with Planning Board

To be scheduled to discuss creation of an Economic Development Commission.

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posted August 7, 2004

July 26, 2004
Town Council Meeting

By Barbara Boggiano

Letter to the Public Utilities Commission

Council reached consensus that the Town Manager should send the letter to the Public Utilities Commission asking for intervenor status and to the South Berwick Water District for more information.

Plaque

Ruth Boston presented Chairman Gagne with a plaque outlining the history of every Town Manager since 1949, starting with Bob Weiss. Council thanked Ms. Boston.

Sewer Line on Academy Street - Letter From Dennis Schoff

Chairman Gagne read the letter from Dennis Schoff, and thanked Tom Harmon of Civil Consultants for resolving the issue. Mr. Harmon said actually Skip Clough and Mick Construction took care of the problem.

Status of Interviews for Town Manager

Chairman Gagne reported they will be interviewing three candidates one night, and three the next night in the beginning of August. The Town Council will be interviewing a total of 13 candidates.

Public Comment

Blaine Cote wanted to speak to the issue of the Fire Engine 4. He said he was the one who wrote the grant to purchase the truck and he wanted to donate it to another town in Maine that really needs a truck, rather than give it away to a third country. Mr. Cote said that the Fire Department tried to sell it on e-Bay but to no avail. He said he put a lot of work into that grant and the Fire Department wants to give away the truck in memory of a fallen firefighter.

Albert Roberge wanted to know about the Belle Marsh Road land purchase article that was in the paper. He felt once the 200 acres is bought by the conservator, they would not be taxed. The Town Manager said he had not received an official word on that transaction, but the Great Works Regional Land Trust would pay taxes, but at a reduced rate. Mr. Roberge said one of the things mentioned in the Comprehensive Plan is affordable housing and he is concerned about not getting money for the land. He thought more information should be given to the people.

Attorney Wendy Sharpe for Mrs. Cachon spoke about the public easement on Bennett Lot Road. She urged the Council to have the way opened for fire and safety reasons immediately. Chairman Gagne said the Manager should speak with the Town Attorney to get a deadline and told Attorney Sharpe Council will take this matter under advisement.

South Berwick Water District
& Proposed Berwick Development

Chairman Gagne reported they have received requests that Council looks into how the Water District operates; specifically, do they have the right to go to the PUC without going to Council? The Manager reported he will send the comments in a letter. Mr. St. Pierre said he contacted the Public Utilities Commission, and they have not taken any action on the proposal yet. He said they are waiting for his comments, and the letter will be sent in a couple of days.

New Library Update

Representatives from York Hospital contacted the Town Manager and said they wish to work in partnership with the town to further develop the site plan. Right now, the Building Committee is struggling with the concept of what the building will look like.

Fire Engine 4

Council approved the Fire Department's request to donate the truck to Burlington, Maine. The Fire Chief reported that no counties are in need of a fire truck right now, whereas this town would be very appreciative of this gift.

Wentworth Fund

The Town Manager said that he spoke with the Town Attorney and the proper way to handle this transaction would be to combine the $25,000 with the existing trust.

Other Items

A. Council signed the 2005 Ballot for Executive Committee members and accepted Maine Municipal Association's recommendation as written. Council approved the District 1 Legislative Policy Committee members submitted by MMA as well as Resolution 3.

B. Roberta Orsini spoke to the town about Council approving a no tobacco policy, as part of York Hospital's Choose To Be Healthy Program. This policy would ban smoking on any recreation field in the town. Chairman Gagne read the resolution. No smoking would be permitted within 50 ft. of fields. Ms. Orsini said that other towns have adopted the policy. There was much discussion, but ultimately the Council took no action on the resolution. Councilor Clough felt that the policy should cover buildings as well as the fields. Councilor Ford vehemently opposed the resolution, stating that it was the responsibility of the parents to make sure their children do not smoke.

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posted August13, 2004

August 9, 2004
Town Council Meeting

By Mimi Demers

Water, Water, Water…

South Berwick Town Council members appear to be increasingly frustrated by the local Water District’s apparent plans to extend a water line to the Berwick town line. This line would accommodate potential residential development along Route 4, specifically a large subdivision recently proposed by the Mick family. The Council has sent letters to the Water District and the Maine Public Utilities Commission, which oversees the Water District, requesting copies of communications between the boards. The
Council is attempting to clarify the relationship between the boards, and regain some control over the decision making process. Several members of the audience spoke up in support of the Council on this matter, saying a lack of communication between the Water District and the rest of the world goes back many years. Citizen Kathy Morris worried an expansion would tax the water supply: "I’m concerned about my water quality already," she said, adding
that people need to speak up on this issue. Council Chairman Robert Gagne concurred, saying "The whole town is the district-- it’s important for people to know this." Citizen Ralph Stevens had questions concerning an article on the subject that appeared in the August 4th, 2004 Fosters Daily Democrat: "They talk about an arbitrator-- who will pay for an arbitrator…? Will we need to raise the debt limit?" Councilor Richard Clough joked, "I think we already did and we don’t know it." Mr. Stevens was referring to the Berwick Selectmen’s similar problems, and its decision to use a third party
to try to define each group’s responsibilities.

Special Meeting with the Water District

The Council discussed an upcoming workshop with the Water District administration and board members, planned for August 18. Councilor John Rudolph cut to the chase: "Is this OUR workshop or THEIR workshop?" Citizen Robert Brackett suggested that the meeting not be called a workshop but a Town Council meeting, since that would allow for an agenda, minutes, and public audience. When Mr. Rudolph suggested that may look like
"brinkmanship" or "grandstanding" on the part of the Council, Mr. Brackett defended his suggestions: "[You want it to be] your meeting under your chair so you have control. This way, the meeting falls under the right-to-know law." The Council took his suggestions to heart, and after further discussion, designated Wednesday, August 18, 2004 at 6:30 P.M., for a special Town Council meeting, and to invite, by registered mail, the South Berwick Water District to attend.

Pond Parking

A second issue sparking lively discussion was parking and swimming at Leigh’s Mill Pond on Vine Street. The Council recently decided to post tow zone signs along the road surrounding the pond, and to allow for only four parking spaces in order to discourage overuse of the area, which is small and ecologically fragile. However, the parking ban is not being enforced. Councilor John Ford stated he counted 22 cars parked along the road on a recent afternoon. Some of those probably belonged to members of the Old Berwick Historical Society, which is conducting an archeological dig in the area. Citizen Kathy Bousquet expressed concern about sanitation (i.e., dirty diapers!) and about the town’s liability if someone got hurt. She voiced the thoughts of many: "What can we do? I don’t have any good answers." Councilor Sue Roberge countered Mr. Clough’s implication that the tow zone signs had not been carefully considered: "We DID think this out Richard," she said. "We have planned to review this at the end of September...I’m sure there will be future discussion." In the meantime, Mr. Rudolph asked that the Council’s "deep concern" be communicated to the police chief.

Raising Fund For a New Library

Citizen Cynthia Gagnon was in attendance to provide an update on the new public library. The Library Advisory Board has initiated a fund drive, she said, but "We gotta know what’s going on as far as funding from the town." She explained it is difficult to ask people to donate if it’s not certain the library will be built. "It’s kind of a chicken and egg thing," Gagnon said. "The town wants to know what the people are doing, and the people want to know what the town is doing." Mr. Clough said that though the Council is behind the new library, he doesn’t feel a monetary commitment can be made
until after the November election, when the Poleski initiative is voted on. "You can’t propose a bond issue when you’re facing a tax cap," he said. “Fine," responded Ms. Gagnon. She didn’t look too happy.

A New Acting Town Manager

Mr. Rudolph welcomed Roberta Orsini as Acting Town Manager. He suggested that department heads be requested to attend town council meetings "while Roberta gets up to speed." Ms. Roberge also encouraged better dialog between the council and department heads, and, in addition, suggested that expenditures which don’t apply to the day to day operation of the town be
approved by the council, "...to help Roberta...to make this process as trouble-free as possible." (Councilors have received 15 applications for the position of Town Manager, and have so far narrowed the field to 6.) But Mr. Clough said, "We don’t want to run the departments. Our job is to look out for peoples’ money." Mr. Gagne said he thought department heads should be asked to attend meetings only if something on the agenda warranted that. The
topic will be addressed more fully at the next regular council meeting.

Paving of Great Works Drive?

Three residents of Great Works Drive were in attendance to request information about when they can expect their road to be paved. The Sewer District recently decided not to run a sewer line to the road, a cul-de-sac located off of Old Mill Road. This initiated discussion about the need for better communication between the council and the sewer district. The residents were told paving is planned for the spring.

Other Business:

The council discussed the rules-- or lack thereof -- concerning the use of motorized miniature motorcycles. The police chief will be consulted on the matter.

The Eastern Trails group will be holding a fundraiser bike race this Saturday, August 14.

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posted September 12, 2004

August 23, 2004
Town Council Meeting

By Barbara Boggiano

Fund Raising Efforts for the New Library

Becky Gowdy, one of the members of the Library Advisory Board, a sub-committee of the Building Committee, spoke about the fund raising process. She said that an internal letter has been sent and donations have been received. They have been going to businesses, too. Also members want to go out for grant money, but the providers want to know if the Council is willing to go out for a bond - in other words - a commitment from the town. Ms. Gowdy said the members of the committee really need to know the timeline for the bond. Councilor Clough suggested that it could go to the town meeting in June providing the Palesky initiative does not pass. Councilor Roberge agreed that they should look toward June. Council said they need to know how much the building will cost. Members of the Committee said they cannot plan the building until they know how much money they will have. The Committee was hoping that this item would be on as a referendum in November. Pattie Micham said that if the Committee knew a date that the vote would be on, that would help them apply for grant money. One of the members felt that having the vote on the library in June would be competing with the School budget. Chairman Gagne suggested that the Council and the Library Committee meet with the Town Manager in a Workshop session to discuss this further on Sep