Southbridge public meetings in 2022
63 substantive meetings from 2022, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Retirement Board
The board reorganized its leadership for 2023 and recommended a 5% cost-of-living adjustment for retirees. Several pension transfers and refunds were approved, while the 2023 budget and educational assistant bonus payments were tabled.
- Elected Ms. Leduc as Chairperson and Mrs. Harnois as Vice-Chair
- Recommended a 5% COLA to Council
- Approved December warrant for $510,141.06
- Approved superannuation retirement of Jane Proulx
- Approved transfer of accumulated deductions for Paul Soojian
- Approved refund of accumulated deductions for Erin Ryan
- Approved rollover of accumulated deductions for Elizabeth Craun
- Tabled 2023 Budget and Educational Assistant bonus payment
Town Council
The Council approved several amendments to the proposed Town Charter, including a residency requirement for the Town Manager. They also appointed three Special Traffic Constables and approved a $9,700 contract for Town Hall roof repairs.
- Appointed Anthony Battista, Joshua Brackett, and Matthew Langevin as Special Traffic Constables (Unanimous)
- Postponed appointment of Jason Benoit as DPW Director indefinitely (Unanimous)
- Approved $24.84 hourly rate for seasonal DPW drivers using Town vehicles (Unanimous)
- Approved $9,700 contract with Guaranteed Building Maintenance for Town Hall roof repairs (Unanimous)
- Accepted $50,000 donation from Nick Perry Memorial Foundation for Fire Department (Unanimous)
- Approved $15,000 contract for Weston & Sampson Engineers for solid waste management (4-3)
- Approved $143,360 Community Compact IT grant for e-permitting software (6-1)
- Amended Town Charter to require Town Manager residency within 12 months of hire (6-1)
Conservation Commission
The Commission issued a Negative Determination of Applicability for a driveway project at Lot 1 Harwood Farm Road. A partial Certificate of Compliance was also issued for 311 Whitetail Circle to release it from a roadway Order.
- Accepted October 6th meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Accepted November 3rd meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Issued Negative Determination of Applicability with no conditions for driveway access at Lot 1 Harwood Farm Road (unanimous)
- Issued partial Certificate of Compliance for 311 Whitetail Circle (unanimous)
Planning & Development Subcommittee
The Planning & Development Subcommittee recommended that the Town Council accept a Community Compact IT grant for e-permitting software. The committee also recommended the full forgiveness of CDBG housing rehab loans for property owners aged 80 and above and a $240 budget transfer for park surveying.
- Approved November 2, 2022 meeting minutes (3-0-0)
- Recommended Town Council accept $143,360 Community Compact IT grant for e-permitting software (3-0-0)
- Recommended Town Council approve full forgiveness of CDBG housing rehab Deferred Payment Loans for owners 80 years or older (3-0-0)
- Recommended $240 transfer to Economic Development Supplies for surveying Capillo Park and McCann Fields (3-0-0)
- Postponed approval of November 29, 2022 meeting minutes
Retirement Board
The Board reviewed a comparison of dental insurance plans presented by the HR Director and Town Manager. The Board voted to adopt the Dental Blue Freedom plan, which will be available for retiree enrollment starting July 1, 2023.
- Approved adoption of Dental Blue Freedom plan as of July 1, 2023 (unanimous)
Ad Hoc ARPA Committee
The committee discussed funding for softball field LED lighting and potential replacements for the Family Health Center site. They recommended approving a COVID premium for a former employee now with the Retirement Office. No final votes were recorded for the lighting or health center projects.
- Recommended approving COVID premium for Yolanda (Retirement Office)
- Decided against adding Ron Plouffe to the premium list
Department of Public Works Subcommittee
The subcommittee recommended the appointment of a new DPW Director and two seasonal plow drivers. It also recommended increasing seasonal plow driver pay to $25 per hour and approved a $9,700 contract for Town Hall roof repairs.
- Recommended Jason Benoit as DPW Director for a three-year term (4-0)
- Recommended Ray J. Caouette Jr. as Seasonal DPW Winter Plow Driver (4-0)
- Recommended David J. Daly as Seasonal DPW Winter Plow Driver (4-0)
- Recommended 2022-2023 winter parking ban routes for approval (4-0)
- Recommended increasing seasonal snow plow driver rate to $25/hour with overtime after 8 hours, retroactive to Dec 13, 2022 (3-1)
- Recommended $9,700 contract with Guaranteed Building Maintenance for Town Hall roof slate repairs (4-0)
- Approved November 30, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)
Southbridge Airport Commission
The commission is meeting to review the airport manager's report, discuss the master plan grant update, and provide an update on the maintenance hangar. Other items include seasonal equipment changes and scheduling the next meeting.
- Review of minutes from September 26, 2022
- Master Plan Grant review update
- Maintenance hangar update
- Equipment seasonal changes
Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee
The subcommittee will review several recommendations for the Town Council to approve. These include special traffic constable appointments, various Fire Department fund transfers, and multiple grant awards.
- Appointment of Anthony Battista as Special Traffic Constable through June 30, 2025
- Appointment of Joshua Brackett as Special Traffic Constable through June 30, 2025
- Appointment of Matthew Langevin as Special Traffic Constable through June 30, 2025
- Fire Department transfer of $600.00 for copy machine supplies
- Fire Department transfer of $550.00 for employee uniform allowance
Ad-Hoc Curbside Trash Committee
The committee voted to accept a final version of a resident survey to be mailed by December 26. Members also discussed billing challenges, as the Town Assessor stated her department cannot take on trash billing duties.
- Approved final survey language and version for mailing
- Agreed to complete the mailer by December 8
Capital Planning and Facilities Advisory Committee
The committee reviewed funding requests for town planning, signage, and a Town Hall study, as well as a multi-year equipment replacement schedule for the Fire Department. No votes were taken on the funding requests; the committee only approved the previous meeting's minutes.
- Approved meeting minutes from October 27, 2022 (Unanimous)
Board of Health
The Board approved the November 3, 2022, meeting minutes. Members discussed adding flu statistics and mental health resources to the town website and reviewed a blight update for 301 Main St.
- Approved November 3, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0, 1 excused)
- Consensus to seek previous years' flu reporting data for comparison
- Consensus for board members to share mental health resources for the town webpage
Fire Station Building Committee
The committee authorized payments for Pomroy Associates and Kaestle Boos Associates. Members discussed property acquisitions, upcoming geotechnical studies, and a current budget deficit of $335,000.00.
- Approved 11/16/22 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
- Authorized payment of Pomroy Associates Invoice #SBFS-003 for $7,260.00 (Unanimous)
- Authorized payment of Kaestle Boos Associates Invoice #21041.00-3 for $28,500.00 (Unanimous)
Planning Board
The Planning Board approved a special permit for David Campos to keep up to six adult laying hens at 50 Fairlawn Ave. The approval includes conditions regarding waste management, rodent deterrents, and a limit on the number of birds. The Board also held a workshop to review and suggest edits to Zoning Bylaw Sections 8 and 10.
- Approved special permit for keeping livestock at 50 Fairlawn Ave (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of November 16, 2022 (roll call vote, T. Hensel abstained)
Public Hearing Tax Classification
The Town Council will hold a public hearing to consider adopting a residential factor and setting the percentages of the local tax levy to be borne by each class of real and personal property. This is a procedural step required under state law. No specific rates or dollar amounts are mentioned in the agenda.
- Public hearing on adoption of a residential factor for tax purposes
- Adoption of percentages of the local tax levy for each property class
Town Council
The Town Council voted to maintain a single tax rate and rejected proposals for residential, commercial, and open space tax exemptions. The council also approved several grants for economic development and infrastructure, and set a deadline for a property owner to provide paperwork regarding a church building's towers.
- Approved single tax rate for FY23 (7-1)
- Denied residential, commercial, and open space tax exemptions
- Approved $23,700 Local Cultural Council Grant
- Approved $75,000 Urban Agenda grant for economic development (6-2)
- Approved $885,000 MassWorks grant for East Main Street improvements
- Approved $8,800 Sustainable Materials Recovery Program Grant
- Approved $4,200 BSC Group contract for RAISE Grant application (7-1)
- Denied $200,000 appropriation to Capital Stabilization Fund (4-4 tie)
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission issued a Negative Determination of Applicability for a driveway project and a partial Certificate of Compliance for a property on Whitetail Circle. The board also reviewed remediation progress at 87 Golf Street.
- Approved Negative Determination of Applicability for driveway access off Lot 1 Harwood Farm Road (unanimous)
- Issued partial Certificate of Compliance for 311 Whitetail Circle (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of October 6th meeting (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of November 3rd meeting (unanimous)
Department of Public Works Subcommittee
The subcommittee voted to recommend several traffic safety measures to the Town Council, including new stop signs and parking restrictions. They also recommended accepting an $8,800 recycling grant and approving private way repairs for Lincoln Street.
- Recommended acceptance of $8,800 Sustainable Materials Recovery Program grant (5-0)
- Recommended approval of up to $500 for Lincoln Street private way repairs (5-0)
- Recommended expanding 'no parking' zone at 11 Charlton Street (5-0)
- Recommended installing tubular surface mounts and striping at 45 Hamilton St, 825 Main St, and 11 Charlton St (5-0)
- Recommended adding stop sign at Fiske Street and Cliff Street (5-0)
- Recommended adding 'blind person' signage at 114 Litchfield Avenue (5-0)
- Recommended adding stop sign on Ellis Road at Torrey Road (5-0)
- Recommended adding 'Blind Drive' sign at 183 Brentwood Drive (5-0)
General Government Subcommittee
The General Government Subcommittee recommended several fund transfers for personnel and mapping updates. It also recommended the appointment of Marcelino Guerra to two boards and the appropriation of $200,000 in state aid to Capital Stabilization.
- Recommended appointment of Marcelino Guerra to WRTA (3-0)
- Recommended appointment of Marcelino Guerra to Commission on Disabilities (3-0)
- Recommended $25,000 transfer for Interim Treasurer/Collector (3-0)
- Recommended $25,000 transfer for cable salaries (2-0-1)
- Recommended $2,000 transfer for Assessor mapping (3-0)
- Recommended $10,000 appropriation for recruitment and drug tests (3-0)
- Recommended $200,000 appropriation for town facilities to Capital Stabilization (3-0)
- Recommended amendment to personnel rules to offer dental coverage to retirees (3-0)
Planning & Development Subcommittee
The Planning & Development Subcommittee voted to recommend that the Town Council accept multiple grants for cultural arts, economic development, and infrastructure. The committee also recommended approving a contract for grant application assistance and the release of a housing restriction.
- Recommended accepting $23,000 Local Cultural Council Grant (5-0-0)
- Recommended accepting $75,000 Urban Agenda grant (5-0-0)
- Recommended releasing Affordable Housing Restriction on 1-11 Central Street (5-0-0)
- Recommended extending FY19 CDBG contract to February 28, 2023 (5-0-0)
- Recommended $4,200 BSC Group quote for RAISE grant application (5-0-0)
- Recommended fund transfer for BSC Group service agreement (4-1-0)
- Recommended accepting $885,000 Mass Works grant for East Main Street (5-0-0)
- Recommended accepting Brownfield grant for Globe Village site assessment (5-0-0)
Retirement Board
The Board recommended a specific dental insurance plan for retirees and approved several individual retirement and refund requests. A November warrant for $470,891.00 was approved. The Board tabled a request regarding pension freezing and excess earnings for further research.
- Recommended Altus Statewide Dental insurance plan 1 for retirees
- Approved superannuation retirement of Marie Ricci effective Nov 18, 2022
- Approved retirement date change for Annie Koulalis to Nov 1, 2022
- Approved refund of accumulated deductions for Christine McCullough
- Approved refund of accumulated deductions for William Parent
- Approved military buy back for Eric MeNeeley for $20,758.40
- Approved November 2022 warrant for $470,891.00
- Tabled pension freeze and excess earnings request for J. Philbrook
Town Council
The Council confirmed the appointment of five firefighters and two police officers. They approved several ARPA grants, including $400,000 for essential employee premium pay and $6,000 for the Bridge Fridge project. The Council also mandated that the owner of the church at 30 Charlton Street provide an engineering study and building permit application by December 5.
- Confirmed appointments of 5 full-time firefighters (unanimous)
- Confirmed appointments of 2 permanent full-time police officers (unanimous)
- Approved $400,000 ARPA funds for essential employee premium pay (6-0-1)
- Approved $6,000 ARPA funds for The Bridge Fridge project (unanimous)
- Approved $18,210 ARPA funds for boiler control system at 25 Cole Ave (unanimous)
- Approved $913,400 USDA ERHC Grant application for fire station equipment (unanimous)
- Approved $233,100 contract to Dankris Builders Corp for Cohasse Pump Upgrade (unanimous)
- Required owner of 30 Charlton Street to pay $3,000 and provide engineering study (6-1)
Ad-Hoc Curbside Trash Committee
The Ad-Hoc Curbside Trash Committee met to discuss the implementation of a Pay-As-You-Throw (PAYT) program. The committee focused on developing a resident survey to gather information on communication preferences and housing status. No formal votes were recorded.
- Proposed resident survey to be sent with the census
- Proposed creation of a 'Southbridge Curbside 2024' website
- Identified grant funding available to produce the resident mailer
Fire Station Building Committee
The committee authorized the start of schematic designs for a 28,000 square foot facility. Members agreed to reduce the project scope by removing the administrative vehicle bay and making the auxiliary building an add alternate to manage costs. The Town Manager was also authorized to secure environmental services.
- Approved 10/27/22 minutes (Unanimous)
- Approved 11/09/22 minutes (Unanimous)
- Authorized Town Manager to sign documents for Phase II environmental services with Tighe and Bond for $22,500 (Unanimous)
- Authorized Pomroy Associates and Kaestle Boos to begin schematic design for a 28,000 square foot facility
Town Council
The Council reviewed the Town Charter and agreed to several wording and procedural changes, including residency requirements for employees and acting manager succession. A proposal to allow the Council to dictate employee appointments will be added to a future agenda. Residents will vote on proposed changes by section rather than as a full charter.
- Decided residents will vote on proposed charter changes by Section
- Agreed to eliminate Section 4-2-6 and merge it into Section 4-2-5
- Agreed to add transitional language to Section 4-2-5 for employees hired after the new Fiscal Year
- Agreed to add a residency waiver for candidates raised in Southbridge requiring a vote of 6
- Changed Section 4-7-1 to allow the Finance Person or HR Director to perform duties pending an Acting Town Manager appointment
- Agreed to use the term 'Town Attorney' consistently throughout the Charter
- Removed a proposed change to the initiative petition process in Section 12-3
- Determined no changes will be made to Section 10-12-1 regarding transfer of appropriations
Planning Board
The Board continued a special permit hearing for livestock at 50 Fairlawn Ave to December 7, 2022. Members held a workshop to discuss definitions and distinctions regarding agri-tourism and farm stores in the Zoning Bylaws. The Board also authorized staff to write a statement for the Center of Hope project at 54 Foster Street.
- Approved November 2, 2022 minutes with corrections
- Continued special permit hearing for livestock at 50 Fairlawn Ave to December 7, 2022 (unanimous)
- Approved request for E. Rumsey and D. Payeur to write a statement for Center of Hope project at 54 Foster Street (unanimous)
Council of the Whole
The Council of the Whole discussed various amendments to the Town Charter, focusing on residency requirements and appointment powers. Several wording changes were agreed upon for future voting, while other proposed changes to financial transfers and board eligibility were rejected.
- Agreed to eliminate Section 4-2-6 and merge it into Section 4-2-5
- Agreed to add transitional language to Section 4-2-5 for employees hired after the Charter's approval
- Agreed to add a residency waiver clause for candidates raised in Southbridge requiring a vote of 6
- Decided residents will vote on proposed changes by Section rather than the full Charter
- Changed Section 4-7-1 to allow the Finance Person or HR Director to perform duties pending an Acting Town Manager appointment
- Agreed to use the term 'Town Attorney' consistently throughout the Charter
- Rejected proposed changes to Section 10-12-1 regarding fund transfers
- Removed a proposed change to Section 12-3 regarding petition signatures
Department of Public Works Subcommittee
The subcommittee recommended a contract for the Cohasse pump upgrade and approved several fund transfers. It also recommended the appointment of a new DPW Maintenance Man/Equipment Operator and the declaration of several vehicle parts as surplus.
- Approved November 7, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)
- Recommended appointment of Chris Armstrong as DPW Maintenance Man/Equipment Operator (4-0)
- Recommended $233,100 contract with Dankris Builders Corp. for Cohasse pump upgrade (4-0)
- Recommended $138,338.16 transfer from Water Stabilization to Cohasse pump project (4-0)
- Recommended $4,847.05 transfer for union contract license stipends (4-0)
- Recommended declaring utility body, Ford bumper, duraliners, and tool box as surplus (4-0)
Ad Hoc ARPA Committee
The committee recommended approval for a $6,000 grant to Bridge Fridge and funding for the Cole Ave boiler control system. A proposal for COVID bonuses for police and fire departments was voted to be sent to the full Council. Requests for Little League lights and fitness courts were postponed.
- Recommended approval of $6,000 for Bridge Fridge
- Recommended approval for Cole Ave boiler automated control system
- Voted to send COVID bonuses for PD and FD to full Council
- Postponed Little League lights pending more information
- Postponed fitness courts funding
Fire Station Building Committee
The committee received an update that the Town Council voted to take three properties for the fire station project. Members discussed budget constraints, potential USDA Grant funding, and cost reduction strategies. Geotech services have been released with a 5–6 week lead time for the drill rig.
- Town Council voted to take three properties for the fire station project
Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee
The Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee and Town Council will consider recommending the appointment of five full-time firefighters and two full-time police officers, subject to medical and background checks. They will also discuss several budget transfers for the Police and Fire Departments, including kennel fees and IT costs, and review a request to declare surplus fire equipment.
- Appointment of Robert A. Gryncewicz as full-time firefighter effective immediately
- Appointment of Makayla A. O’Brien and Nicholas R. Disley as permanent full-time police officers
- Police Department transfer of $7,555 for Oxford kennel fees
- Fire Department transfer of $11,500 for recruitment medical/psychological exams
- Declaration of surplus fire equipment including a 1953 Jeep and 1971 Chevrolet pickup
Town Council
The Town Council authorized the acquisition of multiple properties on Worcester Street and Snow Street for a new fire station. The council also ratified a police association contract and approved several municipal appointments and infrastructure grants.
- Approved acquisition of properties at 0 Worcester St, 129 Worcester St, 17 Snow St, and 23-27 Snow St for a fire station
- Authorized $1,525,000 for Zakhill Realty Property, $467,250 for Pietrzak Property, and $290,000 for Fredette Property
- Ratified collective bargaining agreement with MassCOP Local 153 Southbridge Police Association
- Approved $352,000 agreement with BSC Group to design Quinebaug Valley Rail Trail (7-1)
- Confirmed appointments to Economic Development Commission and Southbridge Housing Authority
- Approved $1,228.47 change order for JAM Corporations
- Approved installation of awnings at 300 Main St (max $10,814) and 53 Central St (max $8,543.46)
- Approved $9,800 annual contract with Cook & Company Insurance Services, Inc.
Department of Public Works Subcommittee
The DPW Subcommittee recommended the appointment of four engineering firms for on-call services and approved several small fund transfers. The committee also recommended declaring a plotter printer and a Ford Ranger as surplus.
- Recommended appointment of VHB, Tighe & Bond, CHA, and Haley Ward Inc. as interim engineers (5-0)
- Recommended $150.00 transfer from Sewer R&M to Testing & Eval (5-0)
- Recommended $272.20 transfer from DPU Rideshare Surcharge to DPW Road Materials (5-0)
- Recommended declaring a plotter printer and Ford Ranger as surplus (5-0)
- Approved October 11, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)
- Approved October 17, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)
Conservation Commission
The Commission issued an enforcement order for remediation at 87 Golf Street and authorized soil contaminant testing. A Certificate of Compliance was issued for 5-15 Case Street. Representatives from Opacum Land Trust provided a presentation on conservation restrictions.
- Issued Enforcement Order for 87 Golf Street to remove fill, stabilize slope, and install erosion control by December 5th (Unanimous)
- Approved contracting a soil testing company to analyze 87 Golf Street for contaminants (Unanimous)
- Issued Certificate of Compliance for stabilization of the raceway at 5-15 Case Street (Unanimous)
Board of Health
The Board appointed D. Grabowski to the Solid Waste Advisory Committee and Daniel Wasiuk as a representative to Region 2 Public Health Emergency Preparedness. The Board also granted a partial fee waiver to Elm St Congregational Church and agreed to add mental health resources to the town website.
- Appointed D. Grabowski to the Solid Waste Advisory Committee through June 30, 2024 (unanimous)
- Appointed Daniel Wasiuk as voting representative to Region 2 Public Health Emergency Preparedness (unanimous)
- Reduced Food Service License Fee for Elm St Congregational Church by 50% to $100.00 (unanimous)
- Approved September 15, 2022 meeting minutes (4-1)
- Approved October 13, 2022 meeting minutes (3-2)
- Consensus to create a dedicated mental health resource page on the Town website
Town Council
The Town Council approved a contract change order for the removal of unforeseen concrete structures at the skate park. The work is funded by the Parklands Acquisitions and Renovations for Communities (PARC) Grant.
- Approved March 21, 2022 Special Town Council meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved $11,280 Change Order #2 to JAM Corporation for skate park concrete demolition (unanimous)
Planning Board
The Board approved the meeting minutes from October 5 and October 19, 2022. A special permit hearing for keeping chickens at 50 Fairlawn Ave was continued to a future date to allow for additional planning documents.
- Approved October 5, 2022 minutes (roll call vote, D. Payeur abstained)
- Approved October 19, 2022 minutes (roll call vote, M. Loin and T. Hensel abstained)
- Continued special permit hearing for 50 Fairlawn Ave to November 16, 2022 (unanimous roll call vote)
Planning & Development Subcommittee
The Planning & Development Subcommittee recommended several grant-funded projects and board appointments for Town Council approval. Key actions included recommending a design agreement for the Quinebaug Valley Rail Trail and various commercial rehabilitation improvements.
- Recommended appointment of Michelle Barnes to Economic Development Commission (4-0-0)
- Recommended appointment of Kathleen Russell to Economic Development Commission (3-0-1)
- Recommended appointment of Jennifer Boilard to Southbridge Housing Authority (4-0-0)
- Recommended $1,228.47 change order for playground equipment (4-0-0)
- Recommended $352,000 BSC Group contract for Quinebaug Valley Rail Trail design (4-0-0)
- Recommended CDBG FY20 timely expenditure waiver request (4-0-0)
- Recommended $10,814 for two awnings at 300 Main St (4-0-0)
- Recommended $8,543.46 for one awning at 53 Central St (4-0-0)
General Government Subcommittee
The subcommittee approved a fund transfer for a clerk's laptop and recommended the renewal of MIIA health benefits and the Cook & Co contract. A proposal for a Forest Management Revolving Fund was postponed for further information.
- Approved transfer of $378.94 from Salaries & Wages to Office Supplies for a clerk laptop (3-0)
- Recommended approval of MIIA health benefits renewal (3-0-1)
- Recommended renewal of Cook & Co contract (4-0)
- Postponed Forest Management Revolving Fund proposal to next meeting (4-0)
Retirement Board
The Board approved the October 2022 warrant and granted the administrator a 3% pay increase and an increase in weekly hours. The Board also processed several retirement superannuations, deduction transfers, and refunds.
- Approved October 2022 warrant for $584,268.84 (unanimous)
- Approved 3% pay increase for Administrator from August 9, 2022 to October 28, 2022 (unanimous)
- Approved increase of Administrator's hours from 30 to 35 per week starting October 31, 2022 (unanimous)
- Approved superannuation retirement of Annie Koulalis effective October 31, 2022 (unanimous)
- Approved deduction transfers for Amy Stanton, Kelly Gemboski, Sharon Ashleigh, and Debra Ramsdell (unanimous)
- Approved deduction refunds for Jason Hall, Jonathan Camosse, Lauren Wilcox, and Frank Gardecki (unanimous)
- Accepted September 29, 2022 meeting minutes with one change (unanimous)
Fire Station Building Committee
The Fire Station Building Committee voted to support the Town Manager in applying for $913,000 in remaining USDA rural grant funds. The committee also authorized the engagement of Kaestle Boos to begin schematic design, pending Town Council approval for property acquisition.
- Approved minutes of 10/05/22 (Unanimous)
- Approved Town Manager pursuing additional USDA rural grant funding of $913,000 (Unanimous)
- Authorized R. Pomroy to engage Kaestle Boos for schematic design pending Town Council property approval (Unanimous)
- Entered executive session to discuss real property purchase, exchange, lease, or value (Unanimous)
Capital Planning and Facilities Advisory Committee
The committee discussed its goals, including the review of capital policies and the FY 2023 budget process. Members reviewed the FY 2022 Draft Capital Projects Fund Balances Spreadsheet to note project statuses. No formal votes on projects or funding were taken.
- Reviewed FY 2022 Draft Capital Projects Fund Balances Spreadsheet
- Scheduled next meeting for November 17 at 2:00 pm
- Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee
The Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee and Town Council are meeting to discuss personnel appointments and grant funding. The body will review a police services contract and two state grants for emergency power and address verification.
- Appointment of Mike Comeau as Sealer of Weights and Measures Inspector
- MEMA Grant up to $50,000 for emergency backup generator power at the senior center
- Executive Office of Public Safety and Security Grant of $5,000 for Police Department Address Verification Program
- $50,000 contract with Quinsigamond Community College for police details (July 1, 2022 – June 30, 2023)
- Update on Sacred Heart Church
Southbridge Airport Commission
The Southbridge Airport Commission will meet to review the manager's report and provide updates on the Master Plan Grant and maintenance hangar. The body will also discuss seasonal equipment changes.
- Master Plan Grant review update
- Maintenance hangar update
- Equipment seasonal changes
Southbridge Airport Commission
The commission will review previous meeting minutes and receive a report from the Airport Manager. The agenda includes a vote regarding conference attendance costs.
- Vote to approve $350 for Mass Airport Management Association conference plus two nights room and travel
Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee
The Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee and Town Council will meet to discuss two appointments. The body will review recommendations for a Fire Department Lieutenant and a subcommittee member.
- Recommendation of Gary Peck for Fire Department Lieutenant
- Appointment of George Chenier to the Protection of Persons and Property Subcommittee for a one-year term through July 31, 2023
Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee
The Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee and Town Council are meeting to review several personnel appointments and grant applications. The body will discuss funding for police crisis intervention training and a donation for a new animal kennel. They will also consider a request for the Fire Department to use a drone.
- Statement of Work from Department of Mental Health for Crisis Intervention training not to exceed $25,000.00
- Donation of $25,000.00 from United Lens CEO Bill Lannon for a new animal kennel project
- Fire Department transfer request of $38,625.00 from Stabilization Fund for assignments, uniforms, and holiday pay
- Proposed use of a drone in the Southbridge Fire Department
- Appointments for Derek Julian and Patricia Dargie to the Subcommittee and Michael Struppa and Jerry Lashaway as Special Traffic Constables
Southbridge Airport Commission
The commission will receive updates on hangar maintenance, runway construction, and the diner RFP. The agenda includes a potential vote to enter executive session regarding office lease adjustments.
- Maintenance Hangar update
- Update on Runway Construction
- Diner RFP update
- Potential executive session regarding office lease adjustments
Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee
The subcommittee will review a recommendation to reappoint the Director of Inspectional Services for a three-year term. Members will also discuss several budget transfer requests for the Fire, Police, and Inspection departments.
- Reappointment of Andrew Pelletier as Director of Inspectional Services through June 30, 2025
- USDA grant award of $86,600 to fund 35% of a 2023 Ford E450 Ambulance
- Inspections Department transfer of $279.71 for 2021 International Building Code Books
- Police Department transfer of $199.03 due to a MUNIS system calculation error
- Fire Department transfers totaling $7,630.00 for various operational costs
Southbridge Airport Commission
The Southbridge Airport Commission will review previous minutes and receive reports on hangar maintenance and runway construction. The commission is also scheduled to vote on a $22,500 grant request for engineering services related to new airport fencing.
- Maintenance Hangar update
- Update on Runway Construction
- Diner RFP
- Vote to approve $22,500 MADOT grant for fencing engineering services
Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee
The Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee and Town Council are meeting to discuss several personnel appointments for police, fire, and inspection services. The body will also review multiple budget transfer requests for the police and fire departments and a contract for a police lieutenant assessment center.
- Contract with Public Safety Consultants LLC for $5,850.00 to fill the rank of Lieutenant
- Police Department transfer requests totaling $22,000 for electricity, holiday staffing, and elevator repairs
- Fire Department transfer requests for IT services, janitorial, water/sewer, electricity, copier supplies, and licenses
- Appointment of Evan T. Genkos as permanent full-time Police Sergeant
- Proposal to pursue the Recycling Dividends Program (RDP) Grant for FY23
Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee
The committee is reviewing several personnel recommendations for the police, fire, and inspectional services departments. It is also discussing multiple fund transfers within the Fire Department and a contract for a lieutenant assessment.
- Reappointment of Andrew Pelletier as Director of Inspectional Services through June 30, 2025
- Appointment of Evan T. Genkos as full-time Police Sergeant effective June 12, 2022
- Authorization for a new 40" full-time Police Officer position
- Agreement with Public Safety Consultants LLC for $5,850.00 to conduct a Lieutenant assessment
- Six Fire Department transfer requests totaling $5,950.00 across various accounts
Southbridge Airport Commission
The commission will review previous minutes and receive reports from the airport manager. The meeting includes updates regarding maintenance hangars, runway construction, and results for a diner RFP.
- Maintenance Hangar update
- Update on Runway Construction
- Diner RFP results
Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee
The Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee and Town Council are meeting to review grant acceptance and police department personnel. The body will discuss three fund transfers for police equipment and repairs, as well as a new constable appointment.
- FY2022 Automated External Defibrillator Grant acceptance
- Appointment of Katelyn Spencer as Special Traffic Constable
- $10,000 transfer for Motor Vehicle Parts & Accessories
- $7,500 transfer for Vehicle Repair
- $25,500 transfer for police department computer upgrades
Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee
The Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee and Town Council are reviewing four department budgets for fiscal year 2023. The body will consider motions to submit these budgets to the Town Council as presented.
- FY2023 Police Department Budget: $4,771,959.00
- FY2023 Fire Department Budget: $2,807,013.00
- FY2023 Public Safety Budget: $220,000.00
- FY2023 Inspections Department Budget: $154,704.00
Southbridge Airport Commission
The commission will receive updates on maintenance hangar and runway construction projects. The meeting also includes a review of the Diner Request for Proposals (RFP) to prepare for advertisement.
- Maintenance Hangar update
- Runway Construction update
- Diner RFP review and preparation to advertise
Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee
The subcommittee will review several fund transfer requests for the Fire, Police, and Inspections departments. The meeting also includes discussions on personnel appointments and an ambulance reimbursement report.
- Fire Department: $43,050.00 in total requested transfers for HVAC, IT services, fire alarm systems, and overtime
- Ambulance Certified Public Expenditure Reimbursement Program (CPE) FY21 report of $162,473.33
- Police Department: $26,500.00 in total requested transfers for HVAC, elevator/sprinkler repairs, and a Civil Service Assessment Center
- Inspections Department: $450.00 transfer request for inspector gas costs
- Appointment of several Special Traffic Constables and permanent Police Officers
Southbridge Airport Commission
The Southbridge Airport Commission will meet to discuss updates on the maintenance hangar and runway contract. The body will also review a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the diner to prepare for advertisement in March.
- Review and preparation of Diner RFP for March advertisement
- Update on Runway Contract
- Maintenance Hangar update
- Review and update of rental agreements
- Updating Airport Manager Job Description
Trustees of Soldiers, Sailors, Marines & Airmen Memorials Committee
The Board is reviewing an email invitation to apply for a Veterans Heritage Grant. Members will also review the procurement process, cost estimates, and methods for securing matching funds.
- Review of Veterans Heritage Grant application invitation
- Review of procurement process and cost estimates
- Discussion on securing matching funds
Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee
The Protection of Persons & Property Subcommittee and Town Council are meeting to discuss personnel appointments and budget transfers for the police department. The body will also review the acceptance of two grants for law enforcement technology and medicine disposal.
- Appointment of Patrick J. Normandin as a permanent fulltime Firefighter
- $4,500 transfer for a new police phone and voicemail system server
- $10,000 transfer for Lund Loft Weapon Mounts
- $15,316 MACCS e-citation grant for a printer, paper, and training
- $1,300 MED-Project LLC grant for collection and disposal of unwanted medicine
General Government Subcommittee
The General Government Subcommittee is meeting to discuss several funding transfers and a service proposal. The body will review recommendations for Town Council approval regarding electrical work and personnel salary transfers.
- Proposal for Garon Electrical Service, Inc to install a new electrical panel and circuits in the Maintenance Airport Hanger for $24,000
- Proposed $71,000 transfer to Town Manager Salaries and Wages from Treasurer/Collector ($31,000) and Economic Development ($40,000)
- Proposed $714.13 transfer from Workers Compensation Insurance-School to Workers Compensation Insurance-Town
- Donations totaling $3,590.00 to the Holiday Visions Program from four sources
Southbridge Airport Commission
The commission will receive reports from the Airport Manager and review updates regarding maintenance hangars, a runway contract, and a Diner RFP. The meeting also includes discussion on equipment and winter planning.
- Maintenance Hangar update
- Runway Contract update
- Diner RFP update
- Equipment and Winter planning
General Government Subcommittee
The General Government Subcommittee and Town Council are meeting to discuss recommendations for the Town Council. The agenda focuses on a specific local bylaw and the adoption of state laws regarding dog confinement and warrants.
- Recommendation to Town Council on the Mullin’s Rule Bylaw
- Adoption of M.G.L. Chapter 140 Section 151A regarding confinement of dogs and issuance of warrants
- Adoption of M.G.L. Chapter 140 Section 153 regarding the form of warrant to officers