Skowhegan public meetings in 2022

Selectboard

The Skowhegan Selectboard is holding a special workshop to discuss three pay-scale options for town employees, effective July 1, 2022. The options include no change, merging job classes 1 and 2, or adjusting class 1 with a $2.00 increase to step 1. The workshop is for discussion only; no decision is being made at this meeting.

• Workshop on pay-scale options for town employees
• Option 1: No change to current salary pay scale
• Option 2: Merge classes 1 and 2, with specific step adjustments for Finance/Human Resource Director, Town Clerk/Treasurer, and Economic & Community Development Director
• Option 3: Adjust class 1 with a $2.00 increase to step 1, affecting the same three positions

Selectboard

The Skowhegan Selectboard will discuss and decide on forming a 19-member Village Partnership Initiative committee with one-year terms and appointing members. They will also approve over $1.4 million in treasurer's warrants and consider several expenditures, including up to $6,979 for a floor scrubber and $4,500 for stairwell repairs.

• Discussion and decision to form a 19-member Village Partnership Initiative (VPI) Committee with one-year terms
• Approval of $1,423,144.29 in treasurer's warrants
• Expenditure up to $6,979.43 from Recreation Reserve for an auto floor scrubber
• Expenditure up to $4,500 from Municipal Building Reserve for stairwell repairs
• Acceptance of $16,800 State of Maine Municipal Snowmobile Grant

The Selectboard approved several municipal expenditures, including $1.4M in treasurer's warrants and a $16,800 snowmobile grant. The board also established a 19-member Village Partnership Initiative Committee and appointed the Registrar of Voters and deputies.

• Approved Treasurer’s Warrants totaling $1,423,144.29 (5-0)
• Appointed Registrar of Voters and five Deputy Registrars (5-0)
• Formed 19-member Village Partnership Initiative (VPI) Committee (5-0)
• Approved renewal of three Automobile Graveyard/Junkyard Permits (5-0)
• Approved up to $6,979.43 from Recreation Reserve for auto floor scrubber (5-0)
• Approved up to $4,500.00 from Municipal Building Reserve for stairwell repairs (4-0-1)
• Accepted and expended $16,800.00 State of Maine Municipal Snowmobile Grant (5-0)
• Approved revised Purchasing Policy with changes (5-0)

Opera House Committee

The committee discussed lighting and rigging repairs, noting that asbestos in the front curtain requires replacement. Members deferred decisions on the project until a structural inspection is completed on January 3, 2023.

• Approved October 18, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)

Selectboard

The Board will hear presentations regarding a New Balance factory expansion and plans for the old spinning mill on Island Avenue. Additionally, the board will consider several financial items including downtown improvement grants and police equipment funding.

• New Balance presentation regarding potential new factory expansion on Walnut St.
• High Tide Capital presentation regarding plans for the old spinning mill on Island Avenue
• Grant of $50,000.00 to Patric Moore for improvements to 65 Water Street
• Grant of $25,000.00 to Emily了 Mitchell for daycare center improvements
• Change Order #1 from Benchmark in the amount of $83,289.38

The Selectboard approved several municipal contracts, including a $18,424 alarm panel bid and a $83,289.38 change order from Benchmark. The board also awarded $75,000 in total Downtown TIF grants for local improvements and accepted two donations for the police department.

• Awarded Municipal Building Alarm Panel Bid to Maine Protection Systems for $18,424.00 (5-0)
• Approved Benchmark Change Order #1 for $83,289.38 (3-2)
• Awarded $50,000 Downtown TIF grant to Patric Moore for 65 Water Street (5-0)
• Awarded $25,000 Downtown TIF grant to Emily Mitchell for daycare center (4-0-1)
• Accepted $10,000 anonymous donation and $7,500 flag pole donation for police department (5-0)
• Appointed Colin Quinn to the Zoning Board of Appeals (5-0)
• Approved adding a Solid Waste Management Supervisor position to salary scale (5-0)
• Accepted FEMA COVID-19 Public Assistance grant of $6,277.05 (5-0)

Selectboard

The Skowhegan Selectboard is holding a special meeting to discuss the Commercial Street/Madison Avenue intersection with the Maine Department of Transportation (MDOT). The agenda consists of a single workshop item with no other business or decisions listed.

• Workshop with MDOT regarding Commercial Street/Madison Avenue intersection

The provided text contains only a conceptual plan for a temporary signal at Route 20, Route 2, and Elm Street. No board actions, votes, or decisions were recorded in the document.

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved an amendment to the Planning Board Ordinance regarding allowable absences. The board also held discussions on updating the Shoreland Zoning and Solid Waste ordinances.

• Approved November 1, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved changes to Planning Board Ordinance to allow 6 absences per fiscal year and passed to Selectmen (6-0)

Selectboard

The Skowhegan Board of Selectmen will hold a workshop to discuss pay scales for town employees. The agenda includes a pledge of allegiance and the workshop as the main item. No votes or decisions are scheduled; this is a discussion-only session.

• Workshop on pay scales for town employees
• Meeting is viewable on the Town of Skowhegan Facebook page
• No votes or public hearings on the agenda

Selectboard

The Skowhegan Selectboard will hold public hearings on a victualer and liquor license for Heritage House Restaurant and a victualer license for Brickyard Skowhegan. The board will also vote on awarding a $159,200 planning feasibility study, a $38,780 forklift bid, and approving over $1 million in treasurer's warrants.

• Public hearing and decision on Heritage House Restaurant liquor and victualer license at 182 Madison Avenue
• Public hearing and decision on Brickyard Skowhegan victualer license at 123 Madison Avenue
• Award of Planning Feasibility Study RFP to VHB for $159,200
• Award of forklift bid to WD Matthews for $38,780 from Solid Waste Reserve Account
• Approval of $1,019,020.92 in treasurer's warrants

The Selectboard approved a planning feasibility study for the Village Partnership Initiative and issued multiple victualer and liquor licenses. The board also authorized several trust fund expenditures and equipment purchases. One change order for Benchmark was tabled.

• Awarded Planning Feasibility Study RFP for Village Partnership Initiative to VHB for $159,200.00 (5-0)
• Approved Victualer and On-Premises Malt Liquor, Wine and Spirits License for Heritage House Restaurant (5-0)
• Approved Victualer License for Brickyard Skowhegan, LLC, contingent on Code Enforcement Officer approval (5-0)
• Approved renewal of On-Premises Malt Liquor, Wine and Spirits License for The Dore Group, LLC d/b/a Old Mill Pub (5-0)
• Awarded Forklift Bid to WD Matthews for $38,780.00 from Solid Waste Reserve Account (5-0)
• Appointed Anjanette McFarlin as Alternate Planning Board Member through June 30, 2026 (5-0)
• Approved $19,666.61 from Cemetery Trust Fund for Christ the King Parish and Sexton's salary (5-0)
• Tabled Change Order #1 from Benchmark for $83,289.38

TIF Committee Agendas

The Skowhegan TIF Committee will discuss proposed changes to the TIF application and scoring rubric, and review two TIF applications from Emily Mitchell and Patric Moore. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes.

• Discussion of changes to TIF application and scoring rubric
• Discussion of TIF application for Emily Mitchell
• Discussion of TIF application for Patric Moore
• Approval of minutes from October 4, 2022 meeting

Selectboard

The Skowhegan Selectboard will discuss and decide on several appointments, including Ronald Rodriguez as Fire Chief, and expenditures from reserve accounts for sludge disposal and equipment. They will also consider parade permits for a Veterans Day food truck and the Skow-Whoville event, and award a portable radios bid.

• Confirm Ronald Rodriguez as Fire Chief effective Dec 5, 2022
• Expend up to $85,000 from Pollution Control Reserve for sludge disposal at Notch Road
• Award portable radios bid to Yankee Communications for $12,660
• Approve parade permits for Bloomfield's Tavern food truck (Nov 11) and Skow-Whoville (Dec 2-3)
• Appoint Garrett Quinn to Zoning Board of Appeals (term to 2027)

The Selectboard confirmed the appointment of a new Fire Chief and filled vacancies on the Zoning Board of Appeals and Downtown TIF Oversight Committee. The board also approved several expenditures for pollution control and fire department equipment, along with permits for local events.

• Confirmed Ronald Rodriguez as Fire Chief effective Dec 5, 2022 (5-0)
• Appointed Garrett Quinn to Zoning Board of Appeals through June 30, 2027 (5-0)
• Appointed Zachariah Daigle to Downtown TIF Oversight Committee through June 30, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved $85,000 from Pollution Control Reserve for sludge disposal at Notch Road facility (5-0)
• Approved $7,500 from Pollution Control Reserve for a refrigerated wastewater sampler (5-0)
• Awarded Portable Radios Bid to Yankee Communications for $12,660.00 (5-0)
• Approved food truck parking for Bloomfield’s Tavern on Nov 11, 2022 (5-0)
• Approved Skow-Whoville event for Dec 2-3, 2022, and bridge decorations through Jan 5, 2023 (5-0)

Selectboard

The Skowhegan Board of Selectmen is meeting to enter executive session under state law to discuss a personnel matter. No other business is listed on the agenda. The meeting will adjourn immediately after the executive session.

• Executive session under M.R.S.A. Title 1 §405(6)(A) for a personnel matter

The Selectboard entered and exited an executive session to discuss a personnel matter. No substantive decisions were reported from the session.

• Entered executive session to discuss personnel matter (5-0)
• Exited executive session (5-0)

Skowhegan Economic Development Corp.

The Skowhegan Economic Development Corporation will hold a regular meeting on November 2, 2022. The board will vote to approve October 2022 financials and minutes from the October 12 meeting. Old business includes updates on a new lease at the Industrial building, a Consolidated Communications broadband grant, Traver's Electric in Southgate Industrial Park, and discussion of a 2023 water company project on Madison Avenue. Committee reports will cover broadband, natural gas, acquisition/development, marketing, Skowhegan River Park, and the Real Estate Sub-Committee.

• Update on new lease at Industrial building
• Update on Consolidated Communications Broadband Grant
• Update on Traver's Electric in Southgate Industrial Park
• Discussion of 2023 water company project on Madison Avenue
• Committee reports on broadband, natural gas, acquisition/development, marketing, Skowhegan River Park, and Real Estate Sub-Committee

The board approved the October 2022 financials and the minutes from the October 12, 2022 meeting. Members discussed industrial park vacancies and a proposed $400,000 match for a broadband grant.

• Approved October 12, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved October 2022 financials

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved a site plan for a solar energy production facility. The board also elected a new vice-chairman and updated attendance rules in the Planning Board Ordinance.

• Approved Site Plan for solar energy production facility at 83 Norridgewock Ave (6-0)
• Elected Derek Chretien as Vice-chairman (5-0)
• Approved October 4, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0-1)
• Approved change to Planning Board Ordinance to allow 6 absences per fiscal year per member (6-0)

Heritage Council

The Heritage Council approved the minutes from the September 6, 2022 meeting. Members discussed upcoming events and a presentation on local churches was recorded for Channel 11. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved September 6, 2022 meeting minutes (3-0)

Cemetery Committee

The committee approved the September 22, 2022, meeting minutes. Members reviewed and made changes to the cemetery ordinance, with a draft to be distributed by Melvin Burnham. No bids were received for the Southside fencing project, which will be re-bid in the spring.

• Approved September 22, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Updated cemetery ordinance changes for draft distribution

Selectboard

The Skowhegan Selectboard will hold a public hearing and vote on an on-premises liquor license for Brickyard Hollow Brewing Co. at 123 Madison Avenue. The board will also decide on a $400,000 broadband grant match for Consolidated Communications, appoint an interim fire chief, and consider a new cable franchise agreement with Bee Line, Inc.

• Public hearing and vote on on-premises liquor license for Brickyard Hollow Brewing Co. at 123 Madison Avenue
• Discussion and decision to spend up to $400,000 as a match for Consolidated Communications' broadband grant
• Appointment of Ryan Johnston as interim fire chief effective November 1, 2022
• Award of half-ton pickup truck bid to Hight Ford for $52,505
• Approval of cable television franchise agreement with Bee Line, Inc.

The Selectboard approved a $400,000 match for a broadband grant and awarded a $49,640 pickup truck bid to Hight Ford. The board also appointed new members to the Planning Board and named an Interim Fire Chief. Additionally, a liquor license for Brickyard Hollow Brewing Co. was approved.

• Approved $400,000 broadband match for Consolidated Communications (4-1)
• Approved On-Premises Malt, Wine and Spirits License for Brickyard Hollow Brewing Co. (5-0)
• Appointed Ryan Johnston as Interim Fire Chief effective Nov 1, 2022 (5-0)
• Appointed Randall Franck, Andrew L. Thorpe, Derek Chretien, and Harvey Austin to Planning Board (3-2)
• Awarded Half Ton Pickup Truck bid to Hight Ford for $49,640.00 (5-0)
• Rejected forklift bid from Octane Forklifts and ordered re-bidding (5-0)
• Approved Cable Television Franchise Agreement with Bee Line, Inc. (5-0)
• Approved Treasurer’s Warrants totaling $1,176,211.33 (5-0)

Selectboard

The Skowhegan Selectboard will hold a workshop to discuss riverfront design and development. No votes or decisions are scheduled; this is a discussion-only item.

• Workshop on riverfront design/development

TIF Committee Agendas

The Skowhegan TIF Committee will discuss changes to the TIF application and scoring rubric, as well as TIF applications for the Town of Skowhegan and for Emily Mitchell. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes.

• Discussion of changes to TIF application and scoring rubric
• Discussion of TIF application for the Town of Skowhegan
• Discussion of TIF application for Emily Mitchell

Skowhegan Economic Development Corp.

The Skowhegan Economic Development Corporation will discuss and decide on plowing bids for Northgate and Southgate. The body will also consider a maintenance schedule for the Industrial building and a potential façade group project.

• Plowing bids for Northgate and Southgate
• Industrial building repairs: East wall, pavement, solar roof, and sprinkler booster pump
• Proposed façade group project using one engineer and one contractor
• Update on new lease at Industrial building

Selectboard

The Selectboard will hold public hearings on the General Assistance Ordinance and a liquor license for New Garden, Inc. The board is also deciding on several municipal equipment purchases and board appointments.

• Proposed award of Municipal Tractor Bid to Central Equipment Co. for $198,842.00
• Proposed award of Half-Ton Pickup Truck Bid to Hight's for $42,600.00
• Public hearing for General Assistance Ordinance and updated income/housing limits
• Public hearing for On-Premises Malt, Wine and Spirits License for New Garden, Inc. at 6 Main Street
• Proposed expenditure of up to $6,500.00 from Marcy C. Brainard Trust Fund for residents

TIF Committee Agendas

The Skowhegan TIF Committee will meet to review and decide on changes to its scoring and ranking system. The body will also vote to approve minutes from August and September 2022.

• Decision on changes to scoring/ranking system

Selectboard

The Selectboard will discuss awarding bids for three highway vehicles and a cemetery construction project. The board is also considering changes to transfer station fees and the scheduling of a public hearing on General Assistance Ordinances.

• Proposed award of One-Ton Truck bid to Hight’s for $18,265.00
• Proposed award of Half-Ton Pickup Truck bid to Hight’s for $32,600.00
• Proposed award of Dump Body & Plow Gear bid to H.P. Fairfield for $87,400.00
• Proposed award of Southside Cemetery Construction bid to Elias Monuments for $22,090.00
• Proposed write-off of $1,218.36 in property taxes for Map 26, Lot 5

Selectboard

The Selectmen and Planning Board are meeting jointly to review various municipal ordinances. Discussion topics include updates to the sewer and sludge ordinances, commercial fee schedules, and state legislative document LD 2003 regarding housing opportunities.

• Site Plan Ordinance parking requirement section
• Sludge Ordinance regarding PFAS
• Updating fee schedule for commercial projects
• Sewer Ordinance update
• Discussion of LD 2003, An act to increase housing opportunities in Maine

Selectboard

The Board of Selectmen will meet for a special session to conduct an executive session. The discussion focuses on a change order related to the Public Safety Building.

• Executive Session regarding Public Safety Building Change Order

Selectboard

The Selectboard will discuss several funding allocations, including Downtown TIF grants and loans. The board is also deciding on a winter sand bid and various municipal appointments.

• Proposed $80,000 from Downtown TIF to Brickyard Hollow Brewing Co. ($50,000 grant, $30,000 loan)
• Proposed $60,000 from Downtown TIF to Donald Skillings ($50,000 grant, $10,000 loan)
• Proposed $83,289.38 Change Order #1 from Benchmark
• Proposed winter sand bid award to Laney’s Construction not to exceed $27,000
• Proposed $1,736.15 expenditure from Police Department Reserve Account for radar signs

Skowhegan Economic Development Corp.

The Skowhegan Economic Development Corporation will meet to discuss a potential lease at the Northgate Industrial Building and an ADA elevator access agreement for 66 Water Street. The board will also hold an executive session regarding property negotiations.

• Potential lease at Northgate Industrial Building
• ADA elevator access agreement for Emily French at 66 Water Street
• Discussion regarding Skowhegan Drive-In Theatre
• Executive session for property negotiations
• Review of July and August 2022 financials

TIF Committee Agendas

The Skowhegan TIF Committee will meet to decide on a recommendation to the Selectmen regarding the use of TIF funds for Skillings Insurance Agency, Inc. The committee will also discuss and decide on changes to its scoring and ranking system.

• Recommendation on TIF fund usage for Skillings Insurance Agency, Inc
• Decision on changes to scoring/ranking system

TIF Committee Agendas

The committee will discuss and decide on a recommendation to the Selectmen regarding the use of TIF funds for the project at 123 Madison Avenue. This item involves the Brickyard Hollow Brewing Co. project.

• Recommendation to Selectmen regarding TIF fund usage for 123 Madison Avenue

Selectboard

The Board of Selectmen will consider several municipal expenditures, including a generator match for the Community Center and engineering bids for Cold Brook Stream Crossing. Other items include police billing rate increases and various committee appointments.

• Match up to $55,820.00 from ARPA funds for a Community Center generator
• Cold Brook Stream Crossing Engineering RFP bids including a $47,000.00 proposal from Sevee & Maher Engineers, Inc.
• Police department detail billing rate increase from $50.00/hour to $60.00/hour
• On-Premises Malt, Wine and Spirits License application for The Miller’s Table, LLC at 42 Court Street
• Rejection of Southside Cemetery Reconstruction bid to allow for a decreased reconstruction area

Selectboard

The Selectboard will discuss accepting a $4,889,600 grant for Skowhegan River Park construction and awarding an engineering contract for the Cold Brook Stream Crossing. The board is also deciding on appointments for Road Commissioner and the Sidewalk Committee.

• Acceptance of $4,889,600 EDA grant for Skowhegan River Park Construction with a $1,222,400 Sappi TIF match
• Expenditure up to $181,000 for 2,500 tons of rock salt
• Awarding Cold Brook Stream Crossing Engineering RFP to Haley Ward for $52,000
• Approval of Special Taste Testing Event License for Skowhegan Craft Brew Festival on September 3, 2022
• Approval of Treasurer's Warrants totaling $553,192.91

Selectboard

The Board of Selectmen will meet to consider several liquor license applications and a request for games of chance at the Skowhegan State Fair. Additional items include potential expenditures for cemetery surveys and updates to town pay scales and personnel policies.

• Public hearing for ZAAP Thai Restaurant liquor and victualer licenses
• Renewal of Bloomfield Tavern, LLC liquor license
• Extension of license privileges for Unwined LLC
• Games of chance application for Sports Projects Inc. at Skowhegan State Fair
• Expenditure not to exceed $3,690.00 for Herrin and Malbons Mills cemetery surveys

Selectboard

The Board of Selectmen will meet to consider several contract awards including a community center generator and water treatment supplies. The board also plans to appoint representatives for the hiring processes of a new Road Commissioner and Fire Chief.

• Awarding the Community Center Generator Bid to Quality Electric for $111,640.00
• Awarding the Polymer Emulsion Bid to Polydyne, Inc. for $13,932.00
• Awarding the Sodium Hypochlorite Bid to Harcros Chemical for $25,875.00
• Accepting a $16,800.00 Municipal Snowmobile Grant from the State of Maine
• Appointing Selectmen representatives for Road Commissioner and Fire Chief hiring processes

Selectboard

The Selectboard will hold a workshop to review the Board's Guidelines and Code of Ethics. The meeting also includes goal setting and discussion regarding a joint meeting with the Planning Board.

• Review of Selectmen’s Guidelines
• Review of Code of Ethics
• Selectmen’s goal setting workshop
• Discussion of items for a joint meeting with the Planning Board

Skowhegan Economic Development Corp.

The board will review and approve financial statements from May and June 2022. The agenda includes updates on loans and a discussion regarding accountant software upgrades.

• Approval of May 4 and May 24, 2022 meeting minutes
• Review of May and June 2022 financials
• Update on loans
• Discussion on upgrading accountant software
• Committee reports regarding Broadband, Natural Gas, and Skowhegan River Park

Selectboard

The Board of Selectmen will meet to discuss various municipal funding reassignments and community projects. Key items include a potential village partnership initiative and participation in the Central Square Public Safety Project.

• Village Partnership Initiative Agreement up to $80,000.00
• Central Square Public Safety Project up to $92,468.86 from ARPA Funds
• Sappi TIF redesignation of $40,430.93
• Sappi TIF facade grants up to $13,000.00
• Fire Department wage account transfer up to $30,000.00

Selectboard

The Board of Selectmen will meet to consider several financial expenditures for town maintenance and infrastructure. Items include street painting, cemetery upkeep, and tree removal bids. The board will also review liquor license renewals and various community grants.

• Street painting contract up to $23,757.00
• Cemetery curb and tomb maintenance up to $3,557.50
• Cemetery turf maintenance up to $5,000.00
• Tree and stump removal bid of $7,200.00 from Arbor Mountain Tree Service
• Dudley Corner Schoolhouse safety equipment up to $100.00

Selectboard

Town residents will vote on numerous articles to raise and appropriate funds for municipal departments and capital reserves. The meeting includes the election of several town officials by secret ballot. Voters will also consider funding requests for community and human service organizations.

• Election of two Selectmen, one Assessor, one Overseer of the Poor, one Park Commissioner, and three RSU54/SAD54 Directors
• Appropriation of $2,741,488.00 for General Government and $1,984,441.00 for the Police Department
• Appropriation of $1,030,000.00 for Public Works Roads and Sidewalks capital reserves
• Authorization for paving projects on East Ridge Road, Eaton Mountain Road, Sandy Lane, and others
• Funding requests for Skowhegan Free Public Library ($195,000.00) and Main Street Skowhegan ($60,000.00)

Selectboard

The Selectboard is meeting to decide whether to rescind a previous motion and approve an amended agreement for the Build Maine Traffic Calming and Pedestrian Safety Test Projects. The project involves temporary roadway enhancements to increase pedestrian safety between 7 Island Avenue and downtown Skowhegan.

• Proposed installation of vertical flex posts or wave delineators on Route 201 over the Margaret Chase Smith Bridge
• Proposed creation of crosswalk gateways at up to four locations on Madison and Water Street
• Proposed use of artistically designed crosswalk art and R1-6 'Yield to Peds' signs
• Materials and installation labor provided at no charge to the Town of Skowhegan
• Requirement for Town Manager Christine Almand to sign a Memorandum of Understanding

Selectboard

The Selectboard will hold a public hearing on victualer license renewals and discuss the MSAD 54 budget. The body is deciding on several expenditures, including a property purchase and union contracts.

• Purchase of 8 Mt. Pleasant Avenue for an amount not to exceed $95,000.00
• Public hearing for Victualer Licenses for multiple local businesses
• Approval of MSAD 54 Budget Validation Referendum and Referendum warrants
• Expenditure of up to $600.00 from DARE Reserve Account for Camp POSTCARD
• Approval of Treasurer’s Warrants totaling $1,127,285.36

Skowhegan Economic Development Corp.

The Skowhegan Economic Development Corporation is meeting to discuss a loan request in executive session. The board will also consider paying its portion of the Genplex upgrade and a rental request.

• Executive session to discuss a loan request
• Discussion and decision on Genplex upgrade costs
• Discussion and decision on a rental request

TIF Committee Agendas

The Skowhegan TIF Committee is holding a special meeting to discuss the possible purchase of property. The committee will determine if TIF funds should be recommended for this acquisition.

• Executive session to discuss the possible purchase of property
• Decision on recommendations for using TIF funds for a property purchase

Selectboard

The Selectboard is holding a special meeting to enter an executive session. The purpose of the session is to discuss the possible purchase of property.

• Executive session to discuss possible property purchase

Selectboard

The Selectboard will consider several items including a paving contract bid, road resurfacing funds, and an ARPA expenditure for the pollution control plant. The meeting also includes a public hearing for a Pizza Hut victualer license and various municipal approvals.

• Public Hearing: Victualer license application for Pizza Hut at 318 Madison Avenue
• Paving Bid: B&B Paving, Inc. bid of $1,065,122.00
• Road Resurfacing: Expenditure not to exceed $765,000.00 from Highway Department reserves
• Road Resurfacing: Expenditure not to exceed $225,000.00 for additional paving work
• Water Treatment: Expenditure not to exceed $23,630.00 from ARPA funds for grit removal system repairs

Skowhegan Economic Development Corp.

The board will review April 2022 minutes and financial statements. Discussion includes updates on Victory Cabinets and Warren’s Office Supplies, as well as decisions regarding Northgate and Southgate mowing bids.

• Approval of April 2022 financials
• Discussion on Victory Cabinets update
• Discussion on Northgate Industrial Park door
• Decision on Northgate and Southgate mowing bids
• Discussion and decision on Genplex request

Selectboard

The Selectmen and Budget & Finance Committee are meeting to decide on the use of available surplus funds and budget increases. The Town Manager has recommended using $1.7 million of the surplus to reduce taxes.

• Proposed $1,850,000 surplus allocation: $1.7M for tax reduction, $75,000 for Opera House reserve, and $75,000 for Village Partnership Initiative match
• Proposed $103,012 increase to the wage adjustment line for union negotiations and Road Commissioner pay
• Proposed $8,900 for new Public Safety Building utilities
• Discussion of property tax levy limit increase (LD1) due to budget recommendations
• Review of FY2023 budget projections including a $1,062,239 increase in wages and benefits

Budget & Finance Committee

The Board of Selectmen and Budget & Finance Committee are meeting to decide on budget increases for wages and utilities. They will also discuss a recommendation to allocate $1.85 million in available surplus funds.

• Proposed $103,012 increase to the wage adjustment line
• Proposed $8,900 for new Public Safety Building utilities
• Recommendation to use $1.7 million of surplus to reduce taxes
• Recommendation to allocate $75,000 of surplus to the Opera House reserve account
• Recommendation to allocate $75,000 of surplus for the Village Partnership Initiative match

Selectboard

The Selectboard will hold a public hearing regarding several proposed ordinance amendments. The meeting also includes discussions on committee appointments, permit approvals for local businesses, and police department funding.

• Public hearing for amendments to Animals & Fowl, Sign, Site Plan Review, Street Naming/House Numbering, and Property Maintenance ordinances
• Public hearing for an On-Premises Malt Liquor License for American Dream Restaurants LLC d/b/a Pizza Hut at 318 Madison Avenue
• Award of Waste Compactor Electrical Work bid to Short Circuit for $26,500.00
• Request to allow Chief Bucknam to apply for a $2,400.00 bulletproof vest grant
• Expenditure not to exceed $1,000.00 for police cruiser lettering and tinting

Selectboard

The Board of Selectmen will consider several budget expenditures for the Police, Solid Waste, and Highway departments. The agenda includes decisions on various town ordinances, a pay increase for the Road Commissioner, and a proposal to pave Coburn Park using ARPA funds.

• Expenditure not to exceed $7,000.00 from Highway Department Reserve for a street sweeper
• Expenditure not to exceed $36,175.00 from ARPA funds to pave Coburn Park
• Pay increase for the Road Commissioner from $27.00/hr to $30.41/hr
• Expenditure not to exceed $400.00 from Police Department Reserve for body armor
• Sale of Engine 13 with an asking price of $25,000.00

Selectboard

The Selectboard and Budget & Finance Committee are holding a joint meeting to discuss and decide on department budgets and revenues. The Budget Committee will also address funding for the Skowhegan History House.

• Funding for the Skowhegan History House
• Department budget decisions
• Revenue decisions

Budget & Finance Committee

The Budget & Finance Committee and Board of Selectmen will hold a joint meeting to discuss and decide on department budgets and revenues. The Budget Committee will also meet separately to consider funding for the Skowhegan History House.

• Discussion and decision regarding funding for the Skowhegan History House
• Discussion and decision regarding department budgets
• Discussion and decision regarding revenues

Selectboard

The Selectboard is holding a special meeting on April 8, 2022. The primary purpose of the meeting is to enter an executive session to discuss union negotiations.

• Executive session regarding union negotiations per M.R.S.A. Title 1 § 405 (6)(A)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Budget & Finance Committee will conduct an organizational meeting to establish leadership and review governing standards. The committee will also discuss funding for service organizations.

• Appointment of a Chairman
• Appointment of a Vice Chairman
• Appointment of a Secretary
• Review of Code of Ethics
• Discussion regarding funding for service organizations

Selectboard

The Board of Selectmen will meet to discuss and decide on funding requests from various service organizations. The meeting includes a review of ground rules and the established schedule.

• Discussion and decision regarding funding for service organizations
• KVCAP Child & Family Services request: $7,800.00
• Family Violence Project request: $6,000.00
• Spectrum Generations request: $8,370.00
• Hospice Volunteers of Somerset Co. request: $21,000.00

Selectboard

The Selectboard is meeting to decide on several contract awards for municipal equipment, including a waste compactor, police cruisers, and office flooring. The board will also consider various proclamations, budget expenditures for cemetery and vehicle repairs, and the acceptance of state infrastructure funds.

• Awarding Waste Compactor bid to Atlantic Recycling Equipment LLC for $101,625.00
• Awarding Cruiser bid to Hight Family of Dealerships for $37,498.00
• Awarding Clerk’s Office Flooring Bid to Floormaster North for $8,015.00
• Acceptance of $125,000.00 in DEP funds for the Steward Hill Road crossing
• Expenditure not to exceed $5,000.00 from Cemetery Reserve Account for trees

Selectboard

The Board of Selectmen will hold a special meeting on March 15, 2022. The agenda includes an executive session to discuss union negotiations.

• Executive Session regarding union negotiations

Selectboard

The Selectboard will discuss the appointment of a school board member and the renewal of a liquor license for Bigelow Brewing Company. The board will also consider several equipment purchases for public safety and a proposal for funding and grant applications for the Whitten Brook management project.

• Expenditure up to $1,100 for two Phantom Spike tire deflation systems (Police)
• Expenditure up to $3,000 for a Stalker DSR radar unit and accessories (Police)
• Expenditure up to $2,450.86 for emergency overhead door repairs (Fire Department)
• Request for $4,000 in local funding for Whitten Brook environmental services and tree replacement
• Approval of Treasurer’s Warrants totaling $656,403.97

Skowhegan Economic Development Corp.

The Skowhegan Economic Development Corporation will conduct its annual meeting to elect officers and review financials. The body will discuss a mortgage release request for a North Avenue property and plan projects for the year.

• Election of Officers
• Recommendation to Selectmen regarding Billie Clark's request for mortgage release on North Avenue property
• Review of Bylaws
• Reports on Broadband, Natural Gas, and Skowhegan River Park

Selectboard

The Board of Selectmen will meet on February 22, 2022, to conduct a special meeting. The agenda includes an executive session to discuss results of a complaint investigation.

• Executive Session regarding complaint investigation results

Selectboard

The Board of Selectmen will consider several contract awards, including the sale of the Mechanic Street Schoolhouse and a law enforcement locker bid. The meeting also includes discussions on alcohol license renewals and a request to use legal fees reserves.

• Awarding of Mechanic Street Schoolhouse bid for $16,010.00
• Awarding of Law Enforcement Locker bid for $19,992.00
• Renewal of On-Premises License for SouthSide Tavern at 1 Waterville Road
• Renewal of Farmer’s Market Authorization for Skowhegan Farmer’s Market at 42 Court Street
• Expenditure not to exceed $5,000.00 from the Legal Fees Reserve Account

Selectboard

The Board of Selectmen will consider several items including union appointments, a road paving permit, and water quality testing funds. They will also discuss foreclosure procedures and the Public Safety Building project.

• Appoint one Selectman to each of four unions: Police, Fire, AFSCME, and General Government
• Construction overlimit permit agreement for Route 150 paving (DOT project #2572900)
• Expend up to $93.00 from the Planning Reserve Account for Whitten Brook water testing supplies
• Approval of Treasurer's Warrants totaling $347,448.37
• Discussion regarding the Public Safety Building and a Guaranteed Maximum Price Agreement

Skowhegan Economic Development Corp.

The Skowhegan Economic Development Corporation is meeting to review financial reports and minutes. The board will decide on an easement offer for solar power and enter executive session to discuss property negotiations.

• $1,000 easement offer from Noble Energy Solutions, LLC for solar power near Southgate property
• Executive session for property negotiations
• Review of January 2022 financials

Selectboard

The Board of Selectmen will meet to discuss options for a second bridge and a proposed traffic light at Madison Avenue, Elm Street, and Commercial Street. The agenda includes decisions on several municipal bids, including an infield groomer, fiber optics, and a truck sale.

• Study and permitting for options 4 and 5b regarding a second bridge
• Proposed traffic light at Madison Avenue, Elm Street, and Commercial Street
• Ventrac Infield Groomer bid of $38,233.27
• Kennebec Communication Consulting Fiber Optic bid of $24,000.00
• Peter Rebar Truck Sale bid of $1,250.00

Selectboard

The Selectboard is holding a workshop to discuss the use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. The town expects a total of $870,168.59, with a remaining balance of $676,771.09 after previous expenditures.

• Community Center Generator: $25,000 (pending estimates)
• Community Center Elevator Replacement: $38,570.00
• Carl Wright Baseball Field Infield Renovation: $75,000 (2020 estimate)
• Ballfield Compound Project: $150,000
• Grit tank aeration system rehab: $22,000 estimated total

Selectboard

The Public Safety Building Committee is meeting to review a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) contract from Benchmark Construction. The committee will discuss and decide on a recommendation to send to the Board of Selectmen.

• Review of GMP Contract from Benchmark Construction
• Decision on recommendation to Board of Selectmen

Selectboard

The Selectboard is meeting to discuss funding and naming for the Skowhegan River Park and a Guaranteed Maximum Price Agreement for the Public Safety Building. The board will also decide on several liquor license renewals and municipal expenditures.

• Proposed $4,889,600.00 EDA grant application for Skowhegan River Park construction
• Proposed $400,000.00 designation from Run of River Reserve for design and permitting
• Expenditure up to $8,864.85 for sewer line relocation at 17 Bush Street
• Expenditure up to $1,500.00 for North Cemetery boundary line agreements
• Approval of Treasurer's Warrants totaling $534,605.22

Skowhegan Economic Development Corp.

The Skowhegan Economic Development Corporation will review updates regarding work and potential tenants at the Industrial Park. The board will also decide on the date for its annual meeting.

• Update on potential tenant for empty space at the Industrial Park
• Update on work performed at the Industrial Park
• Decision on the SEDC board annual meeting date
• Reports from Broadband, Natural Gas, and Real Estate sub-committees