Meeting Minutes

Special Selectboard Meeting Minutes (draft)
February 23, 2023 – Chelsea Town Hall
Selectboard present: Kevin Marshia, Chair, Kelly Lyford, Vice Chair, Leyna Hoyt and William Lyon
Employees present: Karen Lathrop, Town Clerk

1. Call to order -Kevin brought the meeting to order at 6:15 pm.
2. Appoint Moderator- Board read the email sent by Emily Libby Marshia. Kevin recused himself
   due to a conflict of interest. Kelly Lyford asked for a motion. Leyna Hoyt moved to appoint Emily
   Libby Marshia as Moderator for Town Meeting Day, seconded by William Lyon. Kelly called the
   vote and the motion passed.
3. Set Organizational Meeting Date and Time- Kelly moved to have the organizational meeting on
   March 9, 2023 at 6:30 PM at the Chelsea Town Hall, seconded by Leyna Hoyt. No discussion.
   Motion passed.
4. Adjourn – Leyna Hoyt moved to adjourn at 6:20 pm with William Lyon seconding the motion. No
   discussion, motion passed.

Chelsea Selectboard Meeting Minutes (draft)
Tuesday, February 21, 2023
Selectboard present: Kevin Marshia, Chair, Kelly Lyford, Vice Chair, Leyna Hoyt, William
Lyon.
Town Employees present: Karen Lathrop, Town Clerk, Michael Whipple, Emergency
Wastewater Liaison, Rick Ackerman, Highway Dept Head.
Others present: Chris Belcher, Videographer, Nate Billings, Cloverpatch Water Services.

1. Call meeting to order – Kevin called the meeting to order at 6:31 PM.
2. Conflict of interest disclosure – No conflicts disclosed.
3. Additions to the agenda – Kevin noted the Treasurer had included a request to use the
   Common.
4. Public Comments – No comments reported.
   With Board support, Kevin moved Agenda items 9 and 8 up due to weather constraints.
5. Wastewater Plant Update
   a. Clarifier repairs – Mike Whipple reported the clarifier went back online on February
   15, 2023. The part was sourced by Tony Bullard online for substantial savings to the
   Town. Mike stated he would like to have the old gearbox rebuilt as a replacement
   part for future needs. The bronze gear could be sourced for over $2,000.00 from
   Windswift, but Tony was searching for better pricing or different manufacturer.
   Mike noted the gear ratio had changed, it is now faster but if there are issues with
   “wasting” in can be slowed down. He reported Tony had to do some work on the
   gear shaft but still significantly less money overall. He will keep the Board updated.
   Mike reported he ordered chemicals for an upcoming He has been in contact with
   Nolan as to what chemicals the plant required. He has been sourcing pricing for
   chlorination pumps as it was noted it was on the list of items needing replacement.
   No prices yet. Board would address computer needs later in the meeting. Mike
   reported they had been monitoring the ice on the water tank. They were lowering the
   level last week but now it has melted, everything seemed fine, so the water level
   would be going back up. The Board thanked Mike, Nate and Rick for their continued
   hard work the last 4 months to keep the plant running.
   b. Operation proposal – Kevin reported the Board had received a contract proposal for
   the Water/Wastewater plant. He asked Nate to introduce himself. Nate gave a
   synopsis of his work history. He was primarily Water Systems but willing to work
   Wastewater and has signed up for all the State requirements as far as classes and
   certifications go. He stated both Mike and he were looking at the numbers for doing
   contract ops as a business. Kevin stated Mike had reached out to see if the Town was
   interested in something like that. The Board looked at the proposal and went through
   it with Nate. The Board asked questions about whether our permit with the State
   would allow it. It was noted they both have Water Licenses and Mike has a
   Wastewater license. Kelly to look at our State permit. It was noted they might need
   to call on Rick for a few things. Kelly asked for some clarification of who would be
   at the plant on a daily basis. Rick or someone during the week, but not on the
   weekend. There was discussion of the confined space issue which would hopefully
   be resolved with a future upgrade. Nathan spoke to making an asset management
   plan. There was discussion about the competitive bid process. Board thanked them
   for the proposal and the discussion and noted they would have to do some permit
   review before committing to anything. Contract would be for one year.
   c. Position Update – Kevin noted he made some headway but not ready yet.
6. Highway
   a. VT 110 Paving project update – Email from Karen to Kevin on VTRANS project
   involving paving within our infrastructure area. Kevin noted there was an upcoming
   state paving project ( 2024) and he needed to contact Otter Creek Engineering for a
   digital copy of our infrastructure plan. He stated that made him think of what the
   Town needs were and if Rick knew of any necessary. There was a discussion of
   some areas that could be improved. Rick interested in be a part of a walk thru with
   someone from the State to see if Town needs could be accommodated within the
   scope of their project. Board was in favor of Kevin coordinating the process.
   b. Position Update – Leyna passed out a draft for the highway position which the Board
   reviewed. There was discussion on including a medical card for new hires going
   forward. There was also discussion with Rick on whether there should be a limit to
   how far out a person should live if they are on the Road Crew. Leyna to add items
   into position description and email new draft to Board and Rick for further
   discussion
   c. General Updates- The Board asked Rick for any updates. Rick stated the need to
   discuss mowing for the year. Rick noted being down a full time person, he would not
   have time to mow. Upon Kevin’s request for historical information on mowing Rick
   explained how it had been done in the past. Rick listed all the places the Town
   mowed. 12-13 hours to do all the mowing. Bill felt the mowing cannot be put off.
   Rick stated he could mow a few times until the Board gets something in place. Karen
   noted an RFP was made, Jeremy Farnham had given the Town some numbers. Rick
   would like the Board to sub out the Rec Field as it takes 4 hours to mow. There was
   discussion about who maintained the commons as far as limb pick up. That falls in to
   Rick as well. There was also a discussion on stockpiling gravel, usage amount. Rick
   stated used 5000 yds last year, but it was a bad year. There was discussion on where
   best to locate one. The Board had a discussion about equipment replacement. Rick
   reported they used to have a 10 year replacement plan and most warranty plans are 7
   years. He noted it is two years to get a truck delivered from time of order. Loaders
   not such a long timeline since the Loader is 22 years old. Rick to send the Board a
   list of current equipment and equipment replacement plan. There was Board
   discussion on future asset management plan for roads. Board would like to have him
   at the March 21st meeting if possible.
   Paving East Randolph- $175,000.00 from State and money from budget would add
   up to $425,000. Grant must be used by fall. Rick to meet with Caleb O’Connor,
   from Pike tomorrow around $82-83/Ton. Kevin, has it historically been bid? Rick ,
   no we used to just pick one as could not get people to bid. Used to use Blacktop and
   now use Pike as is usually cheaper.
   There was a brief discussion on whether to go for a Bridge grant. Rick does not feel
   the bridges have anything to be done on them. He reported someone hit part of the
   Moxley bridge, couple of braces cracked and broke a 2 x 4 that holds boards on.
   Nothing structural broken. The Board thanked Rick for coming in.
7. Approve Minutes:
   a. January 31, 2023 – Kelly Lyford moved to accept the January 31, 2023 minutes
   with Leyna Hoyt seconding the motion. No discussion, motion passed.
   b. February 7, 2023-Leyna Hoyt moved to February 7, 2023 minutes with edits.
   Kelly Lyford seconded the motion. No discussion, motion passed.
8. Administrative Assistant position update –Kelly Lyford reported the AA hired. Her first day to
   to be March 2, 2023, the informational meeting and first full office day, March 6.
9. Grants
   a. Sidewalk Project Update – Kevin reported the RFP close to going out to bid. He has
   worked with Kasey Peterson on it. A letter will be sent to property owners so they
   know what is coming. All permits from VTRANS have been obtained. Kasey to look
   into the link issue to the website.
   b. Clean Water State Revolving Fund – Wastewater plant possibility – Kevin reported
   that Kasey sat in on a webinar. There is a short application to put together for items
   to be considered. You are then put on a list and then you can make arequest. It has to
   be in by March 1, 2023. Kevin to call Ottercreek and get the report and put some
   items from it on the list. Items from the Wastewater plant, like the Chloride room.
   The Town would not encumbered by putting this application in to the State. Later the
   Town could provide estimates. Kevin would like to work on it. Board approves
   Kevin to work with Kasey on the grant.
   c. Pump Station Grant – status, next steps – will wait for Kasey and ask her to take on
   this grant.
   d. VTrans grants – possible bridge grant application- Kevin will follow up on the grant
   and see if there are any items that we need to have on the bridges that are
   preventative measures and should be pursued. SAM update- Kelly stated it is a
   clunky site. There are people attached to the account that have left the Town’s
   employ and Kelly stated Kevin needed to be attached to the Sam Account so that is
   why Kevin rying to update it so another person has to be on it, and she sent Kevin an
   email.
10. Informational Meeting and Town Meeting preparation
    a. Draft budget presentation – Board asked if the posting for the informational meeting
    was done. Karen stated informational meeting warning was posted in Town, on
    website and out on several sites. Only necessary to put in paper if you have public
    questions or budget items. Kevin passed out a draft of potential talking points for the
    budget that he will go over with Gayle. He noted he might make some slides for the
    the meeting.
    The Board asked if they needed to do anything for Town Meeting. Karen mentioned
    she had asked Bill Smith for a loan of their sound system but had not had a chance to
    look at the stage sets that were still on the stage. Board offered their help in moving
    items. Discussion about appointing a Moderator. Clerk to post Special Meeting
    warning for March 23, 2023 at 6:15 PM for the Board.
    11.Division of Fire Safety Report – Kelly Lyford reported it was not in yet but had reached out
    by email.
11. Computer purchase update – Gayle worked with Derrick from Caulkins to get better
    pricing and they recommend a HP Pro-book ($850). One for Wastewater and one for AA.
    Board is good with Gayle going forward with the purchase.
12. Use of the commons – Kevin read the email from Phyllis for use of the common as they
    have in the past on July 6-8
    th. All forms complete. Kelly Lyford moved to allow the
    Chelsea Flea Market Committee to use the commons as needed July 6-8
    th. Leyna Hoyt
    seconded the motion. No discussion, motion passed.
13. Policy Considerations
    a. Purchasing policy- Board discussed the purchase policy changes with the Clerk. In
    looking over the policy they noted other areas that needed adjustment to language
    such as a section on Competitive Bidding and striking a line in the minor purchases.
    Kevin defined what a minor purchase, major purchase and competitive bidding would
    be. Kelly feels $2,000 is to high not to get bids. Need more than one bidder. Clerk
    suggested revisions to Kevin. Probably should hold off until after Town Meeting
    when they would have a full board.
    b. Class IV Roads policy- passed over until after March 21st Meeting.
    c. Others – None
    15.Approve Orders – Kelly Lyford moved to approve orders. Bill Lyon seconded the motion.
    No discussion. Motion passed.
14. Executive Session- Personnel Leyna Hoyt moved to enter into executive session for
    personnel at 8:45 pm. Kelly Lyford seconded the motion. No discussion. Motion passed.
    Kelly Lyford moved to exit executive session at 9:29 pm. Bill Lyon seconded the motion.
    No discussion. Motion passed.
    Action- Wastewater Plant operation and need more follow up going forward. Discussed
    medical card as a qualification of the highway department position.
    Bill noted there are more complaints on the log pile which is growing. He feels there should
    have been more clarification. The log pile was supposed to be gone in 30 days, not the
    project needed to finish in 13 days. Bill has a contact and is instructed to contact them to let
    them know the logs need to be removed.
    Bill will contact Mr. Hastings about the tractor trailer and let him know he must come to a
    Board meeting to request use of the old sand pile area to park.
    17.Adjourn- Leyna Hoyt moved to adjourn at 0:34 pm. Bill seconded the motion. No
    discussion. Motion passed.

Chelsea Selectboard Meeting Minutes (Draft)
February 7, 2023
Selectboard present: Kevin Marshia, Vice Chair, Kelly Lyford, Bill Lyon & Leyna Hoyt
Other Employees present: Karen Lathrop, Town Clerk, Gayle Durkee, Treasurer, Marianne
McCann, Town Report, Rick Ackerman, Road Foreman, Kasey Peterson, Grant Writer, John
Parker, Rec Committee, Samantha Allen, Rec Committee
Others present: Chris Belcher, videographer, Jenny Martin, resident

1. Call meeting to order – Kevin called the meeting to order at 6:31
2. Conflict of interest disclosure – None
3. Additions to the agenda –
   Organizational vote due to Selectboard resignation
   Water/Wastewater Plant Update
   Organizational vote- Bill Lyon nominated Kevin Marshia as Chair. No second necessary.
   Voted Kevin Marshia as Chair.
   Leyna Hoyt nominated Kelly Lyford to Vice Chair. No second necessary. Voted Kelly
   Lyford as Vice Chair.
4. Public Comments –Jenni Martin discussed the logs sitting at the Heath Field with the Board.
   Jennie will contact the logger ( Bob Burke) to have them removed. Bill Lyon to be contact
   for Jennie Martin. Timeline to remove logs – 30 days. Logger to clean up the area. Jennie to
   contact Bill Lyon.
5. Approve Minutes – January 31, 2023 – tabled
6. Town Report
   a. Selectboard Report- revised by Kevin, with addition of Geoff’s name. Board
   discussion with Marianne as to the editing of the Selectboard report. Board chose to
   go with a general thank you to everyone instead of naming the many who worked
   on behalf of the Town. It was felt that was a more diplomatic way of inclusion.
   b. Report Review- Marianne summarized what was being done for the Town Report.
   Revisions to be in by Thursday morning. Timeline -Book would be back to Town
   around the 20th
   . Gayle asked if the picture of Nolan was okay. Board approved.
   Gayle and Marianne to put books in mail. Board to help if necessary.
7. Rec. Committee – John Parker welcomed the new Selectboad. He brought forth a proposal
   for a portable warming shed (8 x12 with window and door) at the ice rink. No heat due to
   liability. Zoning permit application submission upon Board approval. John stated that the
   prior board approved an 8 ft hoop at the basketball court which will be put in place soon.
   Samantha Allen was writing a grant for a pickleball court at the basketball court. Will come
   back for Board approval at a future meeting. John seeked information on whether Rick
   would continue to mow the rec field. He stated he had done a great job. Kevin stated they
   had not had that discussion with Rick yet. Kevin asked if the Rec Committee had any
   questions for the Board and said the Board planned to meet all the committees at some
   future meetings to touch base and see how they could support them. John reported a box

elder was in need of cutting at the playground/basketball court and Pete Amber would do it.
Rick noted he would be able to help out with that. The Board thanked John for his help with
it.

8. Highway
   a. Highway Mileage Certificate – Rick stated no changes. Administratively signed by
   Board.

b. Class IV Highway Policy- Board discussion on policy. Rick’s thoughts. No work on
any class 4 road for about 15 years and had only been on the Thorne Road once.
Board asked for examples of class 4 roads. Rick pointed out Whitneys, Carpenter
Road section and a few more. Town only responsible for culverts and bridges. Rick
stated it’s all they could do to keep up with Class 2 and 3. Leyna asked about work
done on roads as policy states under supervision of the Road Formann. Discussion
on who maintains the road. Rick stated they probably needed a permit to work in the
Town Right of Way if they plan to have someone fix the road. Rick to call John and
Rella Rice talk about work in the right of way for their use. Board questions which
permit necessary when informed there were two. Karen deferred to Rick. Rick felt
they probably needed both. Rick stated historically he signed off and board signed
off on Access Permits. He stated he was fine with signing access permit for snow
plowing only. Leyna asked why the Board could only work on the policy in only
work in July. Rick did not know but felt revisions were probably necessary. Board
to work with Rick on policy revisions.
Rick gave the Board and update on general highway work and repairs to vehicles.
c. Executive Session – Staffing- Kelly moved to enter into executive session for
Highway staffing at 7:28 pm with Rick, Gayle and Karen invited. Leyna seconded
the motion. Motion passed.
Leyna H. moved to exit executive session with Kelly L seconding the motion.
Motion passed.
Action – Leyna H. to work with Rick Ackerman on advertisement for full time
Highway Position.
Water/Wastewater – Kevin gave a report to the Board on the Water/Wastewater
plant. It was reported there was a broken gear in a clarifier that has to be replaced.
Mike Whipple said cost unknown yet. Board in favor of approving the cost
necessary to keep the plant going. Rick stated what days Nate worked at the plant.
He is still be accompanied by his wife. Board reiterated that it is a liability issue
for the Town and there must be a Town Employee there. Leyna H. to stop by
tomorrow to speak with Nate.
Sewer Plant Laptop update. Bill reported Systems Plus has a $750 price for laptop.
Gayle stated Caulkins price was higher. Gayle stated IT person said you could just
purchase one from Best Buy. Just has to be reliable for online reporting.
Kevin reported he was in contact with Mr. Merryfield, and he is supportive about
how the Board is dealing with the sewer plant. There were needs identified. More
to come. Simon’s called, a little anxious for town to get someone soon to work at
the plant as they are maxed out.

9. Grants – Kasey Peterson
   Kasey requested expectations of the Board and prioritization of the many needs for Town
   Hall. She noted the Vermont Arts Council accepted her report and grant money should be
   dispensed soon for the Pellet Boiler. She noted the RFP for sidewalks needed to go out.
   She noted the Town Hall might not be viable space for generator as it has to be kept
   historically accurate and no space to put generator on other side of building.
   She read off a list of items future concerns for the hall :
   Balcony chairs- $55.000 to restore all, $15,000 to restore only broken ones
   Water leaking into downstairs dressing room
   ADA compliancy
   Sound system for ADA
   Lighting has to be historically compatible
   Handicap Ramp replacement
   Windows – energy efficient
   Sprinklers for building
   Front Door push button ADA
   Fire and Carbon Monoxide detectors
   Plaster Repair
   VTRANs Packet for grants in- due 15 Apil
   Board discussion on the list and priorities. Marianne noted that the SAM.gov piece has to be
   completed soon.
   Board tasked Kasey with accessibility and planning grants. Kasey to forward Kevin the
   Sidewalk grant info. Leyna H. brought ARPA Grant up and thought to have some smaller
   committees on different items for ARPA money. Board thought it was a a good suggestion.
   Kevin would like Andy Pomerantz and Chris Bryne come to a meeting. Marianne noted the
   Board needed to read the guidelines, as they keep changing.
   Creamery issue- three entities-school – Town – Creamery propert owner – drop culvert behind
   the creamery. Marianne met with two people from VTRANs and Rick. She gave an explanation
   of it and there is a file the board needs to look at There is also map. Kasey will scan and send
   maps to Board. Marianne and Kasey briefed the Board on the project. It is at a stand still as of
   now.
   Kasey noted she worked 12-15 hours a month as grant writer
   10.Town Hall Chimney Inspection – February 10 –Kasey reported in order to have the inspection
   completed, the pellet furnace would need to be off for 72 hours. Decision was made to push that
   out until Spring.
   11.Free Verse Farm – Liquor License- Karen submitted the application. Kelly L. moved to
   approve the 2 class liquor license with Bill Lyon seconding the motion. Motion passed.
   12.Division of Fire Safety – Town Hall Inspection – Kelly reported a walk thru done with
   Maurice from Division of Fire Safety, with Karen and Bill and the report has not come in
   yet. There are some items that are restrictions and some items for consideration. Push button
   access for the front door and electrical panel might be outdated. Might need a new one.
   Kasey did report that the electrician that came in for the grants said our electrical wiring is
   up to code but agreed the panel might need to be changed out. Karen noted she had call Mr.
   Farrell about cleaning the furnaces and was waiting to hear from him.
   13.Heath Field – Old Sand Pile Usage – Logs- see under public comments. Bill L. to speak
   with the person parking down there.
   14.Informational Meeting – Confirm Agenda – Candidates having a chance to speak. Invite
   Ronald Johnson and Jesse Kay to speak – budget presentation to update folks who could not
   make the meeting and Public Comments.
   15.Approve Orders – Kelly L moved to approve orders as presented with Leyna H. seconding
   the motion. Motion passed.
   16.Executive Session – Personnel – Leyna H. moved to enter executive session for personnel at
   8:52 pm inviting Gayle and Karen with Kelly L seconding the motion. Motion passed.
   Leyna H. moved to exit executive session at 9:51pm with Bill Lyons seconding the
   motion. Motion passed.
   Action- Moving forward with the AA staffing and wastewater staffing.
   17.Adjourn – Bill L moved to adjourn at 9:54 pm, with Leyna H. seconding the motion.
   Motion passed.

Chelsea Selectboard Meeting Minutes (draft)
January 31, 2023
Selectboard present: Kevin Marshia, Vice Chair, Kelly Lyford, Leyna Hoyt,
William Lyon
.
Employees present: Karen Lathrop, Clerk, Gayle Durkee, Treasurer, Marianne
McCann, Town Report Liaison.
Others present: Chris Belcher, Videographer, Greg Herrin

1. Meeting brought to order by Kevin Marshia at 6:31 PM
2. Conflict of Interest Disclosure- None
3. Additions to agenda – Karen -Town Hall Wiring, Kelly purchasing policy.
4. Public Comments- None
5. Approve Minutes
   January 18, 2023 -Bill L. moved to approve the minutes. Leyna H. seconded
   motion. Passed. Motion passed.
   January 21, 2023- Water Board – Leyna H. moved to accept minutes. Bill
   L.seconded the motion. Motion passed.
   January 21, 2023-Selectboard- Kelly L moved to approve the minute. Leyna H.
   seconded the motion. Motion passed.
   January 24, 2023 – Revisions to be made- Switch who Leyna and Kelly was
   speaking with. Note the emails were read from Mr. Frenier and Mr. Herrington.
   Note under budget, water/sewer rates had not changed since 2017. Note under #14
   last paragraph was a repeat so struck out. Leyna moved to approve minutes of
   January 24, 2023 with revisions. Kelly seconded the motion. Motion passed.
6. Approve Budget
   Gayle briefed the Board on some changes made to budget based on
   recommendations of Chad Hewitt, Accountant. Board reviewed the budget, made
   final revisions to several departments including Highway payroll and Lister
   payroll. Board discussion with Gayle on surplus from the prior year. Board had brief discussion on 21,000 deficit for water/sewer. No changes for this
   budget. Board noted they would have to have a discussion in the future to make it
   solvent.
   Board discussion on Total General Government expense up just under 5% from
   last year. Monies to be raised by taxes would be 1,000,205. Kevin gave examples
   of how much taxes would go up for homes with different assessment.
   Gayle said someone suggested to her that since the Library line up was going up
   by $15,000, should it be placed on the warning as a separate article. Board
   discussion on whether to put it as an article. Gayle explained the Librarian has a
   larger salary, insurance and retirement. Kelly asked what persons may amend at
   Town meetings. Clerk stated voters may amend any line item from the floor at our
   meeting. Board was fine with no extra articles. Kevin noted it could be highlighted
   at our informational meeting and at the floor vote.
   Gayle stated the total budget would be $1,495,796 , with $1,00,205 to be raised
   by taxes.
   Leyna moved to accept the budget of $1,495,796 with amount to be raised by
   taxes $1,00205. Bill seconded motion. No Discussion. Motion Passed.
7. Approve Town Meeting Warning
   Kevin M read the warning. Bill L. moved to approve the warning as read with
   Kelly L. seconding the motion . No discussion, motion passed.
8. Informational Meeting Discussion
   Kevin noted the date and time were set at the last meeting as March 2, 2023 at
   6:30 pm. Board gave feedback to Marianne on what they wanted to go into the
   Town Report. Kevin to create the agenda for informational meeting.
9. Town Report Review
   Marianne stated Town report essentially complete. Last items to be sent in on
   February 1. Proofs to be out next week hopefully. Board questioned who wrote the
   Selectboard report. Marianne stated the chronology came from her and Kasey but

Geoff had to approve it prior to sending to the printer. Board had questions of who
signs the report. Board requested a draft be sent to them. Gayle tasked to call Geoff
about the draft. Discussion on who would be proofing the book. Book should be
proofed and approved by February 6, Marianne stated, but earlier would be better.
10.Approve Certificate of No Appeals to the Grand List
Karen gave a explanation of the Certificate of No Appeals to the Grand List to
the Board. Leyna H. moved to approve the Certificate of No Appeals to the Grand
List with Kelly seconding the motion. No discussion. Motion passed.
11.Thorne Rd/Class 4 Road
Karen gave background on Thorne Road and class 4 highway and the
discussion she had with the Rice’s. Kevin read the email from the Rice’s. Board
discussion on the Rice’s timeframe for work, what they are allowed to do. No one
may work on a class 4 road without an Access Permit from the Town. Discussion
on how to get the Access Permit for plowing only completed, and who the
authorized person signing it should be. Kevin suggested a permit for plowing only,
and then have the Rice’s come in for a meeting. Board reviewed permit
application. Kelly noted there needs to be more consistency in how permits are
issued going forward but felt until that happened the Board should sign off on it.
The Board would need time to look over practices for filling out applications.
Board specified a restriction of snow plowing only on the permit. Karen to follow
up with Rice’s for a complete application and invite Rick to next meeting.
Kelly moved to approve a completed application for” plowing only” on an Access
Permit for Thorne Road with Rick’s approval. Leyna seconded the motion. No
discussion Motion passed.
Board discussion on Class 4 Highway Policy. Noted the policy had not been
updated since 2009. Noted policy needs some updating. Intent is clear but some rewording necessary. Noted policy could only be changed in the month of July as
stated in the policy. To be on a future agenda item at March 21, 2023.

12. Approve Orders
    Bill L. moved to approve orders as presented with Leyna seconding the
    motion. No discussion, Motion passed.
    13.Town Wiring Issue
    Karen brought to the Board a potential wiring issue of 1.30.2023. Board
    discussion on how to approach it next time. Fire Department to be called in the
    future. Board discussion on the wiring evaluation. Kelly to contact the Dvision of
    Fire Safety come in to look at the building. Karen tasked to invite Kasey Peterson,
    grant writer, to Feb 7, 2023 meeting for discussion on possible grants.
    Board tabled purchase policy to future meeting.
    Board set agenda items for Feb 7, 2023 meeting.
    14.Executive Session – Personnel ( if necessary)
    Leyna moves to 8:35 pm executive session for personnel inviting Karen and Gayle.
    Bill seconded the motion. No discussion. Motion passed.
    Leyna moved exit at 9.22pm.Kelly second pass.
    Action: Kelly to set up interviews for AA. Discussion advertising sewer plant
    position. Kelly to draft sewer position advertisement and a highway position
    advertisement.
    Bill Lyon noted there has been someone storing logs on Town Property and
    parking without permission of the Town property down by the sewer pland and
    liability to Town if anything happens there. Bill to contact the person and
    recommend the log pile to be gone in two weeks and clean up of the space in the
    spring . Bill to contact the person parking the box truck as well. Kelly stated it
    should be followed up with a letter.
    Kelly L. moved to adjourn with Leyna seconding the motion. No discussion.
    Motion passed . Adjourned 9:31 PM.

Special Selectboard Meeting Minutes (draft)
Tuesday, 24 January, 2023
Selectboard Present: Kevin Marshia, Vice Chair, William Lyon, Kelly Lyford, Leyna Hoyt
Other Employees present: Gayle Durkee, Treausrer, Marianne McCann, Town Report
Other persons present: Chris Belcher, videographer

1. Call meeting to order – Meeting called to order at 6:32 by Kevin Marshia.
2. Conflict of interest disclosure -None
3. Additions to the agenda -Karen – Town Warning/Time Line
   Gayle added MRGP for approval
   Marainne- Town Report
   Kelly Update AA
   Kevin-Update on Sewer Grant Project, Zoom
4. Public Comments – Kevin read email from Mr. Herrington,Sat 21, 2023 about tapping trees on 110 near Dickerman hill cemetery. Board noted land not in Chelsea. An email to be sent to Mr. Herrington.
5. Approve Minutes – None available at this time.
6. Approve Orders- moved to end of meeting
7. Budget Discussions
   Water Budget/SewerBudget- Gayle spoke to the water budget and rates. No rate change in years. Rates to be set at next Water Board meeting. It was noted there was a deficit of around 31,000. Board discussion on Board reviewed the budget.
   Board reviewed changes to Salaries. Operating expense overage last year due to because of contracted work. Gayle noted there were some delinquencies. Kevin compared last year budget to this year’s, proposed they are somewhat close. Some nominal increase to fees for water/sewer? Just a discussion of how much to up rates. Hypotheticals discussed. Kevin, should we leave operating expense or increase? Gayle stated we have used Simons for two months. Board set operating expense at 15,000.
   Highway- Board discussion of mutual aid using mowing equipment to save money. Board discussion on mowing and tree cutting. Rental Equipment line item to 5000. Leyna to check with Rick to see if we have committed to an agreement. Kelly to check with Vershire.
   Board went over Library line item in budget- Gayle noted that VMERS for the Librarian has pushed up the line item.
   Selectboard Budget- Selectboard to use AA laptop, tech line item to 500 for zoom, Supplies to 250.
   AA Budget – Board set compensation at 30,000 to cover 16-20 hours for AA and hour for Grant Admin. Technology to 1200 for laptop.
   Town Clerk Budget – Board increased salary at 33,000 based on state wide average. Drop Assistant Town Clerk to 2,5000, dropped technology down by 100.
   Treasurer Budget – Board increased salary to 33,000 based on state-wide average.
   DTC – no changes
   Listers budget – Board decrease payroll to 8000
   DRB- No Change
   Public Safety -No change OCS billed Dec/Jan
   Town Hall Budget – Custodian salary decreased to 4500 as not all was utilized from last year.
   Board discussion with Treausrer about Mowing payrolls for several Town departments. Discussion on hours for highway. Leyna to double check with Rick to confirm the time he uses.
   Solid Waste budget – Kevin over budget on salary for “22”. Board increase salary 12,000. Leyna how much over? 9-10 thousand deficit.
   Rec Committee line item – No change, Gayle noted the town pays electric for skating.
   General expenses- Election line item brought down to 3000. Clerk explained it would be higher in a year when there were state and federal elections.
   Nemrc- no change
   Petitions Appropriations- 14,2000 for petitions submitted. Clerk said three entities did not make the dead line. Spotlight brought in a petition. Board discussion and decision to put it on the Town warning increases appropriation budgetary line item to 16,240.
   Highway Budget – Board reviewed changes.
   Heating fuel increase to 5000
   Equipment repairs – 45,000
   Diesel Fuel – 80,000 Gayle noted mud season blew the budget last year.
   Board review of bottom line, budget up 4%. $1,130,895 to be raised by taxes about 178,000 more than last year.
   Gayle to bring finalized budget to January 31, 2023 Selectboard Meeting for approval. Gayle to send budget to Board to check excel formulas.Kevin noted maybe some ARPA funds could be used to offset some expenses. If Town could use soome funds to keep taxes down. Gayle would have to look into it. She has to look into extra taxes that we received and see if that could reduce taxes.
8. Gayle presented the Municipal Roads General Permit (MGRP) – enables the Town to get funding and impacts grant income.
   Kelly moved for Kevin to sign the MRGP in the amount of 640.00. Bill seconded. Motion passed.
   Kelly moved to add 640.00 for the MRGP application fee to ANR. Bill seconded. Motion passed.
9. Move to approve orders. Kelly moved to approve the orders Bill seconded. Motion passed.
10. Town Meeting Warning & Timeline. Karen ran down timeline and Hybrid Town Meeting Warning. Discussion on info meeting.
    Bill moved to hold informational Meeting March 2, 2023 at 6:30 pm at the Town Hall. Leyna seconded the motion. Motion 12. passed.
11. AA Update – Kelly updated the board on the AA position. Advertisement in paper for two weeks. Currently drafting questions.
12. Sewer Grant Update – Kevin contacted Ms Ellis. For the Pump Stattion Grant. Appropriation is there and Town must put in an application if we meet the criteria. 600,000 for the project, 20% match Town Match 150,000. There are some criteria for some potential waiving of match if we meet those criteria.
    Many communities have had problems with an unique identity # Duns. Fed account. Gayle noted the process is not easy but we have one and it has to be updated. It is not an easy process.
    Board discussion about having Otter Creet and ANR invited to a future meeting for some imput. Kevin tasked with speaking to John Maryfield about Town options
13. Town Report – Just missing a few small items- fire chiefs report, fire dept budget and prudential board report, selectboard report, Treausrer files and Dog Report from Clerk and three reports for appropriations. Will leave, admin vacant. Selectboard to take some time and think about the proofing of the report.Kelly each person takes a section- next meeting to decide.
14. Zoom Update -Kevin, would like to go forward with a live zoom account. Board discussion, Kevin tasked to work with Gayle on it. Marianne said there is the free account under administrative assistant. Marianne to share info with Kevin. Kevin to look into storage needs for it. Considered public records once Town chooses to use it.
    Kevin spoke about Otter Creek being invited and Kelly ANR also invite to get some input from someone. Conversation with John Maryfield, Kevin will speak to him about what the Town has for options.
15. Executive Session – Personnel (if necessary)
    Kelly moved to enter executive session for personnel at 9:02 pm inviting Karen Lathrop, Clerk. Leyna Hoyt seconded the motion. Leyna seconded the motion. Motion passed
    Leyna moved to exit executive session at 9:28. Bill seconded the motion
    Motion passed.
    Action – Kelly to contact VLCT about Town Resources as the next step going forward with help for an employee.
16. Kelly moved to adjourn with Bill seconding the motion at 9:30 pm. Motion passed.
    Next Selectboard Meeting – Tuesday, January 31, 2023 – 6:30 PM

Selectboard Meeting Minutes (Draft)
January 21, 2023
Selectboard present: Kelly Lyford, William Lyon, Leyna Hoyt
Town Employees, Gayle Durkee, Treasurer, Karen Lathrop, Town Clerk,
Others present: Mark Vermette

1. Call meeting to order:
   Kelly called the meeting to order at 11:23 AM
2. Conflict of Interest:
   None
3. Addition to agenda:
   Kelly- update to AA job description and ad
   Karen- review purchase policy revision
   Karen- review Town Meeting Warning 1st draft
4. Budget discussions:
   None
5. AA job description update and ad
   Kelly went through updated AA description and noted she tidied up the
   language, expectations and job duties were in a bullet point format. She
   changed the minimum qualifications which she felt was very important.
   Board read over the job description.
   Leyna moved to adopt the new job description with Bill Lyon seconding the
   motion. Motion passed unanimously.
   Kelly to update the ad and send to Karen and Gayle. Karen tasked to place it
   on the website along with the new AA job description and let the applicants
   know about it. Gayle to send it to the newspaper for publication. To be ran
   twice in the newspaper.
6. Purchase policy revisions.
   Karen presented the amendments the Board made to the purchase policy.

• Changed Town Administrator to AA/Treasurer
• Changed $2,000 to $5,000 and notification to Board in Minor
  Purchases
• Changed $5000 and up in Major Purchase
• Noted in red the previous Boards amendment.
  For Board Review at a future meeting.

1. Town Meeting Warning 1st draft :
   Karen presented the first draft of the Town Meeting Warning. Board
   reviewed. To be brought to the next meeting for any revisions.
2. Executive Session Personnel
   None
3. Adjourn:
   Leyna moved to adjourn at 11:43 with Bill seconding the motion. Motion
   passed unanimously.

Chelsea Selectboard Meeting Minutes (draft)
January 18, 2023
Present: Geoff Clayton, Chair, Kevin Marshia, Vice Chair, Leyna Hoyt, William
Lyon and Kelly Lyford.
Other Town Employees present: Karen Lathrop, Town Clerk, Gayle Durkee,
Treasurer, Marianne McCann, Town Report, Rick Ackerman, Road Foreman
Other present: Chris Belcher, videographer.

1. Call meeting to order: Meeting called to order at 6:33 pm by Geoff Clayton.
2. Conflict of interest disclosure: No conflicts reported.
   Changes to the agenda: Kevin -FEMA request
   Marianne McCann- Discuss Town Info Meeting
   Karen – Approve 1.07.2023 minutes
3. Public Comment –None
4. Approve minutes:
   a. Selectboard Meeting January 7, 2023: Kevin requested a revision to item
   16 of the meeting minutes pertaining to verbiage on wages. Karen noted
   the revision was completed and sent to the Board and posted on the
   website. Kevin moved to approve the January 7, 2023 meeting minutes
   with Leyna Hoyt seconding the motion. No discussion. Motion passed by
   unanimous consent.
   b. Selectboard Meeting January 12, 2023: Bill Lyon moved to approve the
   minutes of January 12, 2023 with Leyna Hoyt seconding the motion. No
   discussion. Motion passed by unanimous consent.
5. Approve Orders: Geoff noted he was not going to be taking the EMT course
   and asked if the Board would like to go back to Tuesday night as signing on
   Wednesday was causing some issues for Gayle. Brief discussion by Board
   about starting date. Leyna Hoyt moved to switch back to Tuesday night
   meetings at 6:30 pm, the first, third and fifth Tuesday’s starting January 31,
6. Kelly Lyford seconded the motion. Kevin clarified only the day was
   2
   changing, meetings still at 6:30 at the Town Hall. No other discussion. Motion
   passed by unanimous consent.

Kasey Peterson, Grants Admin, reported to the Board that there was an invoice
for the pellet furnace project in the orders and it came out to slightly more than
the $44,000.00 budgeted for the project. Total cost was $51,100.00 due to
having to build a furnace room and pour a concrete pad for the pellet boiler. She
stated that it was the final piece of documentation needed for the $22,000.00
grant reimbursement from the Vermont Arts Council. Kelly asked if all the
documentation for the grant was completed. Kasey said reports were complete
except for some math to show how often the hall was utilized during the year
and the invoice. She noted the hopper holds 9 tons and would go over costs in
the budget section of the meeting. Kevin asked Gayle the process for signing
orders was. Gayle sends the top sheet to the orders prior to the meeting for
review. To be continued below.

6. Executive Session – Personnel: Kevin Marshia moved to enter executive
   session at 6:49 pm for Personnel & Highway inviting Gayle and Karen. Motion
   seconded by Leyna Hoyt. No Discussion. Motion passed by unanimous consent.
   Kevin Marshia moved to exit executive session at 7:44 pm. Bill Lyon seconded
   the motion. No. Discussion. Motion passed by unanimous consent.
   Action: Kelly Lyford to review and rewrite the administrative assistant job
   description and present to the board on Saturday.
   Kevin Marshia stated the Board would use the VLCT Compensation and
   Benefits Report and State-wide avg salaries during the budgeting process for
   salaries.
7. Budget Discussion
   a. Treasurer Comments: Remember to look at your bottom line of the
   budget as you will need to raise that amount in taxes.
   b. Highway: Rick reported to the Board that truck 5 needed repairs to the
   front end and he needed Board approval as the cost could be anywhere
   from $2,000.00 to $5,000.00 depending on what was discovered wrong.
   Rick stated Board approval was necessary if expending monies over
   $2,000.00 which comes under major repairs section of Town Purchasing
   Policy. This led to a discussion about the trucks in general and whether
   the policy needed to be updated. Board asked Rick what he thought a
   reasonable, realistic amount that he would need to complete repairs to
   items. Rick stated $5,000.00 but would not spend that much if
   3
   unnecessary. Board felt the policy should be amended to read that
   amount and just notification to the Board that repairs were necessary.
   Karen to make the changes to policy and bring a draft to the Board on
   Saturday. The Board went over staffing needs with Rick. Eventually the
   highway will need three full time year round employees. Highway is
   down to a one full time and one part time employee( 30 hour). When
   asked if Rick comes to every meeting, Geoff mentioned Rick comes to
   meetings as needed and when the Board appoints the liaison and they will
   let Rick know when needed.
   Highway Budget – Gayle brought up the income side of the Highway
   budget and explained the line items. Kevin asked about the Side-walk
   grant. Kasey, Grant Administrator, spoke to it. There is a piece of
   sidewalk north and south of the Fire Station that needs repairs. Due
   winter setting in, the request for proposals will be out again in the spring.
   Expectations are that it will completed before the end of summer. It is a
   50/50 match of funds. Kasey to send all reports and the Town to be
   reimbursed the $29,000.00. Kevin asked about Grants in aid and
   budgeting. Rick stated they have a class 2 grant in aid in the amount of
   $175,000.00 for paving with an end date of December of 2023. Kevin
   asked if that should be in the budget? Rick stated it had never been
   included as it was a wash. In one side out the other. Gayle said they
   would see it in resurfacing expenses then on income side it could go
   under other grants.
   Geoff & Kaseyspoke to bridge grants. She noted Doug Lyford gave her a
   folder of items. Kasey stated that Maple St Bridge is a long way down
   the list according to Rita Seto at TRORC. Kevin said the Maple Street
   bridge went through a prioritization project. It made the list but was not
   chosen. The box culvert is an AOT project. Kevin said there were Town
   structures grants available. Gayle stated we had $35,000.00 in the
   highway match fund so there is money if the Town needed to come up
   with it.
   Highway Personnel – Kevin based on previous discussions they should
   budget for the three full time employees and suggested a budget amount
   of $175,000.00 and to budget the line items that go with the salaries. In
   discussion, Rick thought overtime would go down if they hired three full
   time person. Board discussion on it. Gayle to update budget numbers and
   bring to next meeting.
   Garage – Gayle noted technology was up due to computer purchase and
   heating oil is at $2.10/gallon.
   4
   Town Equipment – Equipment Rental went up substantially. Rick
   reported he traded work with Vershire last year. Worked well though
   Town has to wait until they make it available. The budget number was
   what it would cost to rent from Tenco. Discussion on how many weeks it
   was needed. Bill reported to the Board, Town could rent a tractor for
   $2,500/wk from Adam. Board asked Rick to schedule a rental. Rick said
   he might need it for three week to four weeks and Board budgeted
   $10,000.
   Equipment Repairs- Leyna questioned the equipment breakdown. Rick
   reported all the trucks were 8 years old with no warranty so all bills
   would be all out of pocket. Rick reported the Board needed to think about
   replacements as it might take two years to get a truck at this point, as you
   can’t buy one right now. The loader was now 22 years old. Leyna asked
   if we had an equipment fund and Gayle reported yes, and they had been
   putting a little more in it as payments had gone down as vehicles were
   paid off. Kelly asked if there was a replacement schedule. Rick reported
   he did have one but they haven’t been able to keep to it. Board discussed
   all the trucks and the equipment repair line item with Rick. Budgeted
   $50,000.
   Highway Maintenance – Board discussed diesel fuel with Rick. Cost at
   this time is $4.50/gallon according to Gayle. Board stated it needed to be
   a realistic number and left it at $80,000. Two high items are Gravel and
   Sand. Rick reported last year 70% of what they used for gravel was due
   to the extremely bad mud season. McCullough’s upped their prices. Rick
   said he thought they had enough sand this year that they could cut down
   on it a bit. They put up 4,000 yds are year. Average year usage is 3,500
   yds. Board left the budgeted amount as is for now.
   Ditching- never had a line item for it. Usually use the backhoe, and hired
   Tad to do grants in aid work.
   Construction/Projects – Rick stated the three first lines are our percentage
   match. Culverts 10% Class 2 Roads 20%. Gayle explained the process
   and Rick noted some of it is in kind matchs. Grants in aid is stone lined
   ditching. Gayle noted Town reimbursement would be $29,000. Gayle
   noted they put in $6,000 for bridges and culverts. None was budgeted for
   last year.
   5
   Debt & Capital Funding – Gayle explained each line. Equipment fund is
   there for future equipment needs. Kevin said that might be an area we go
   back and tweak. Rick said they need to remember that the bottom line
   shows grants that are not part of the highway budget, for example the
   sidewalk grant which makes the highway budget look inflated. Gayle
   said she would make the changes and bring it to the next meeting.
   c. Capital Funds/Critical Needs-Geoff felt this could be put off till the next
   meeting. Water and Sewer would be done on Saturday.
   d. Any other items which need to be covered- Kevin wanted to go over the
   rest of the budget items if necessary. Gayle noted the items under the rest
   of the budget items are pretty much set. Kevin asked about all the rec
   committee and other small items. Geoff replied many of the line items
   are just funds that are balances.
   Rick asked if he should be going to the sewer plant every day. The guy
   who comes three times a week brings his wife. Board said it was a
   liability issue Town and there should be a Town employee there when
   someone is not our employee. If Rick can’t make it do to plowing, then
   let someone know and maybe one of the Board members could go.
   Gayle asked the Board to go back to Town Hall for a look at pellet costs
   and maintenance. Kasey reports that the Town has to empty one of the
   three fuel tanks down in the hall and Lyme Green would pump it and
   take it to the Town Garage if Rick has room. Board took out the oil costs
   for this year. Kasey noted 9 ton of pellets were $2,100 for the budget.
   $325/ton.
   Leyna asked about the grant that is available for the Sewer plant. Kevin
   gave an update on that. The Town match would be $150,000. Marianne
   McCann reported she sent an email to the Board. Project $750,000,
   match is $150,000 and it will take a long time to apply and there is a
   possibility that the $150,00 could be waived but more reading needs to be
   done.
   Geoff said he could put a small blurb in the newspaper to get the word
   out. Kevin said there is language for rural communities and demographic
   lines. He said he has drafted and email for informational reasons only and
   if the Board was okay with it he would send it out and let the Board know
   what information he receivesback Geoff said to go ahead and reach out.
   Just cc the admin or chair on it and just do it in the future, no worries
   about getting information
   6
   Kasey asked to go back to the Pellet Furnace Maintenance line. She
   reported there are two maintenance items. The yearly maintenance plan is
   $400/ year and it covers the basic stuff, for example for parts and service
   and then there is $210/year fee for a midwinter cleaning for the air filters.
   There are four oil furnaces for backups if the pellet furnace has issues but
   they are also the blowers for the pellet furnace and they all have to have
   filters changed out. She thought the $400.00 includes having them come
   switch out the ash box but they don’t do that until 20 ton of pellets have
   gone through. Bill Lyon asked about the warranty and Kasey to find out
   and report back to board.
   Kasey asked about a couple of workshops she would like to go to and
   wanted to check with the Board before going. Board is fine with that.
   Leyna questioned whether the ARPA money could be used for some of
   the Town expenses. Gayle said she would look at it but the government
   has been changing the rules. Geoff said wait till the Board saw the final
   budget numbers and then see what we have upcoming for expenses. He
   reported they had until June to make decisions. Marianne McCann said
   they have till 2024 to decide and 2026 to use, but using it right away
   could happen. Kelly asked about the criteria and Marianne said you could
   go online and see what it can be used for. Kevin noted there was a group
   that had a meeting and came up with ideas. Kevin said should the Board
   ask them what the recommendations. Geoff stated they had already
   submitted a list. Kevin, said he would like to hear from them because he
   thought they would have researched it further. Kevin would like to see
   this for a future meeting, not at budget time. Gayle noted you can go to
   the VLCT website and look at what it could be used for but we have a lot
   of sewer issues that need to be addressed. Kevin noted that ARPA can’t
   be matched to the sewer grant. Kelly asked if the money in the sinking
   fund had criteria attached to it. Gayle to research and get back to the
   Board.
8. Town Clerk- nothing.
9. Administrative Assistant- Town Report- Marianne McCann went over the
   Town Report calendar. She made up a sheet on Nolan to go into the Town
   Report. She reported she needed the Selectboard report, she made some dates of
   when the info meeting should be and she stated she needed a warning and
   Gayle’s reports as well for it. The contact list still needs the admin assist. She
   7
   made the auditors report. She reported there were two info meetings last year.
   The Selectboard only needs to have one and it probably should be the second of
   March as it must fall within ten days prior to Town Meeting. Kevin asked if
   motion were needed for the auditors report and Marianne replied no. She thinks
   the books might be mailed on the 21st of February She stated the last day to
   complete the warning is February 5, but it needs to be done asap.
   10.Town Meeting- The Town Warning is a Hybrid and numbers need to be entered
   asap to it, appropriations would be in a day or so. Karen said she could go in get
   it on Friday. She thinks the books might be mailed on the 21 of February.
   Board wants another meeting Special Meeting January 24, 2023 at 6:30pm at
   the Town Hall.
   Kevin noted for the public that the Selectboard would be meeting as the Water
   Board at 9 am at the Water Treatment Facility then go to the Town Hall after.
   Geoff noted he put Selectboard meeting right after for the budget part of the
   water and sewer.
   10.Rules of Conduct at public meetings- Pass over and tabled to a future meeting,
   because of time and there will need to be a long discussion of what the Board
   can do and what they cannot and what they can do for policy besides statutory
   laws. He feels the Board needs to look at what they can do for legal recourse if
   there are issues at meetings.
   Kevin wanted to know who to speak to about putting the Chelsea Spotlight
   Somewhere in the foyer. Karen said there would be no problem with that.
   Kevin also reported he worked with the owl but did not get it to work with his
   computer yet but getting closer. Next step to budget a zoom account and it is a
   work in progress. He would work with Gayle. He looked at cost of storage but
   does not know how much space needed per meeting.
   Back to approve orders- Kevin asked for clarification of orders – Gayle stated
   pink Top Sheet is Selectboard Orders & Rec, Green is Highway and Blue is
   water. Geoff gave a brief synopsis of the Sheriff Dept Billing. He felt the
   services received were at times where there was no speeding. Many hours of
   paperwork. The Board asked if the contract had been signed and he stated it had
   been. The only recourse the Town has would be not to sign a contract. Kevin
   would like to invite the new administration to a future meeting to hear from
   them and touch base with them.
   8
   Bill Lyon moved to approve orders with Leyna Hoyt seconding the motion. No
   discussion. Motion passed by unanimous consent.
   11.Adjourn: Motion to adjourn: Kevin moved to adjourn at 9:44 with Leyna Hoyt
   seconding the motion. No discussion. Motion passed by unanimous consent.

Town of Chelsea Selectboard Meeting (Draft)
January 12, 2023 – Chelsea Town Hall
Selectboard members present: Geoff Clayton, Chair, Kevin Marshia, Vice Chair, Kelly Lyford, William Lyon and Leyna Hoyt
Other Town employees present: Karen Lathrop, Town Clerk, Gayle Durkee, Treasurer, Marianne McCann, Town Report

1. Meeting called to order by Geoff Clayton at 6:32 pm
2. No Conflicts of interest
3. Changes to agenda: Geoff added executive session for Roberts Poor Fund, Gayle Durkee added Auditor’s Contract
4. No public comment
5. Approve minutes: Kevin has not had a chance to look at minutes. Tabled until next meeting.
   Added: Roberts Poor Fund Executive Session for fuel assistance
   Leyna Hoyt moved to enter into executive session at 6:37 for a Robert’s Poor Fund Request for fuel assistance, inviting the Clerk, Treasurer, and Ms Mccann to stay. Motion seconded by William Lyon. Motion passed by unanimous consent.
   Kevin moved to exit executive session at 6:49 pm with William Lyon seconding the motion. Motion passed by unanimous consent.
   Action: Kevin Marshia moved expenditure of $655.48 from Robert’s Poor Fund for fuel assistance with Kelly Lyford seconding the motion. Motion passed by unanimous consent.
   6:Executive Session for Personnel:
   Geoff stated there were three applications for the AA position and one for the Waste Water dept. There was discussion about the interview process and Geoff reported that Karen and Gayle were part of the interview team. There was discussion about the needs of the Waste Water Plant personnel and Highway.
   Lyena Hoyt moved to go into executive session at 6:56 pm for personnel inviting the Clerk and Treasurer to stay. William Lyon seconded the motion. Motion passed by unanimous consent.
   Kevin Marshia moved to exit executive session at 7:15 pm with William Lyon seconding the motion. Motion passed by unanimous consent.
   Action: Kelly Lyford and William Lyon will handle the interviews for the AA position. Geoff Clayton to contact Nolan LaFrancis to discuss the future status with Town.
6. Budget Discussion :
   Gayle explained the revenue side of the budget line by line and answered questions on Delinquent Tax Revenue for the year. There was a tax sale this year which brought up the revenue ($216,123.44) There had not been a tax sale since before Covid. They would now be resuming tax sales as they were not permitted the first two years of Covid. They normally budget for delinquent taxes that come in but are never sure of how much. It washes out under Delinquent Tax Collector under Delinquent Tax Collector Fees. 2023 budgeted at 10,000.00.
   Under State of VT Revenue: There was a brief discussion on civil fines, how they come in and the Sheriff’s Dept. 2023 budgeted at 150.00.
   The Board noted Current Use has gone down a lot. Gayle said many changes were made to current use last year. Gayle noted they should speak with Phyllis, one of our Listers for the changes that have affected Current Use and Real Estate. 2023 budgeted at 95,000.00.
   Board questioned whether we get Listers Education money. Gayle to speak with Phyllis about this line item and report to the Board.
   Under Service Fees Revenue, the Clerk gave the Board information on the revenue that comes from her office. She reported liquor licenses went up due to the Wagon Wheel and dog licenses continue to slack off since Covid. Board asked if a rabies clinic was still ongoing. Karen reported that she won’t know until January 30, 2023. If the vet does one, it will probably be only one day. They are not making money at it. Geoff said maybe there was grant as it was public saftely related. No changes made.
   Gayle went over Zoning and Planning Income. No changes made to it.
   Under Solid Waste: Geoff reported people are continuing dumping. He says if we up fees, more dumping will continue. He said probably should leave the revenue side as is right now. Board discussion on raising fees and how to do it as we are running a $10,000.00 deficit. Board discussion on how to show the deficit. Geoff said as a line item. Leyna offered to research it and come back to it. William agreed with Geoff’s line item idea. Under Solid waste revenue, $80,000.00. Gayle gave info on it and how it relates to any line of credit. Kevin asked about the grant. Gayle and Marianne explained it was for switches at the transfer station. Gayle states we can take out the line item after this year. Lowered metal revenue to $175.00.
   Under total other revenue, Gayle explained the line items for some reimbursements. She explained the reimbursement for mowing the Heath Field, and Recreation Field. Interest on Investment is what the interest rate on our General Fund. Robert’s Gould Field is reimbursed by Will Gilman by a fund he has for it. Kevin wanted to know if this was Town related? Gayle said it was the way it was set up when it went into place for reimbursement. The Town would pay the contractor and be rimbursed.
   Under expenses side of the budget:
   Selectboard Budget: Board discussed stipends, legal fees, advertising, and technology. Board stipend to stay the same. Board put Selectboard legal fees under General Fees at $3,000.00 to be reviewed at next meeting. Board noted advertising must go up due to positions needing to be filled. Set 2023 budget at $3,000.00. Marianne noted legal notices come out of that budget. Marianne McCann had zoom figures for the Board. Kevin had checked into them as well. 2023 budget for technology set at $ 2,500.00. Board noted there would be add on costs for cloud storage. Gayle has looked into quotes for laptop from Caulkins network. William Lyon gave the name of Chris McAndrew to get quotes from also. Board wants to ensure the technology we buy has enough graphics card to give quality to the meetings.
   AA Budget: Board discussion around how many hours AA position is. (16- 20/wk)The grant writer position, held by Kasey Peterson is rolled into the hours for AA. (8-10/wk) Kevin asked why payroll was so high. Karen stated it was amended up by $30,000 at Town Meeting last year. Board to come back to payroll at next meeting. Gayle noted there was an increase in rent due to new contract and a new copier lease was more expensive.
   Town Clerk Budget: Budget stayed the same except for increase to office equipment due to copier rental increase.
   Treasurer/Tax Collector Budget: Gayle went over her budget with the Board.
   Listers Budget: 2023 budget change Listers Office Equipment $1,150 for new copier contract.
   DRB/Zoning Budget: No changes
   Public Safety Budget: After much Board discussion a line item was added to Health Officer for expenses for 2023. $300.00. Geoff explained the position comes with more paperwork and trainings that must be completed. There was discussion about raising the Animal Control Officer Stipend. Leyna H. to research other towns. A line item from expenses was added. $300.00. Geoff reported the OCSD contract had already been signed.
   Town Hall Budget: Karen reported our custodian only works part time due to another full time position. She does not do outside maintenance. Mowing line up went up due to actual costs. 2023 budget $1,600.00. She noted that there was outside maintenance to do this next year. Supplies went up due to inflation. 2023 budget $2,500.00. Gayle added a line item for pellets for the boiler. 2023 budget $ – wait till Kasey comes in. Will need a line for pellet maintenance for the boiler. Kasey to be at the next meeting. Fuel Oil was increased due to cost increases 2023 budget $4,000.00.
   Solid Waste Budget: Board reviewed Budget. There was discussion in general about payroll budget. No decisions made on numbers for it. To be reviewed at a future meeting.
   Marianne reported that the Town had been awarded a grant for sewer upgrades from Peter Welch’s Office as part of Connunity Funding Grant in the Omnibus Bill passed earlier, but would require a Town Funding match that could not come out of ARPA Funds. More info to come. Board discussion on using the sinking fund for it. Marianne noted she sent reading to the Board about this. Kevin asked that the email be forwarded.
   Kevin noted the time was getting late and the Board decided to ask Rick Ackerman to the next meeting January 18, 2023 via Leyna Hoyt. Kevin noted that the Board had a walk through the Sewer plant with Mike Whipple on January 21, 2023 and should sit down as a Board after and discuss the Sewer budget. Geoff stated we need to get our water/sewer system squared away or we might lose our sovereignty of our system.
   Geoff asked for a motion to adjourn. Kevin Marshia moved to adjourn the meeting with William Lyon seconding the motion. The motion passed by unanimous consent. The meeting adjourned at 10:17 pm

Town of Chelsea Selectboard Meeting
January 7, 2023 – Chelsea Town Hall
Selectboard members present: Geoff Clayton, Kevin Marshia, Kelly Lyford, William Lyon and
Leyna Hoyt.
Other Town Employees present: Gayle Durkee, Treasurer, Karen Lathrop, Town Clerk,
Marianne McCann, Town Report
Others present: Chris Belcher- videographer

1. Meeting called to order by Geoff Clayton at 7:05 AM.\
2. No conflicts of interest
3. No changes to agenda
4. Leyna H. nominated Geoff Clayton for Chair with William L. seconding the nominations
   Vote was unanimous. William L. nominated Kevin Marshia, Vice Chair with Kelly L. seconding
   the nominations. Vote was unanimous
5. Kevin moved to adopt Roberts Rules of Order for meetings with William L. seconding the
   motion. Vote was unanimous.
6. William L moved to hold meetings at 6:30 on the first, third and possibly fifth Wednesday of
   the month with Kelly L seconding the motion. Vote was unanimous.
7. Board discussion on process for calling Special Meetings. Board noted they would follow the
   process set out in Vermont Statutes for calling Special & Emergency meetings
8. Board requested information on how to treat emails sent to them for public comment. Clerk
   stated historically, emails were read off to the Board and added most public comment comes
   from the floor from people attending. Town Clerk asked if there would be time limits and how
   many times a person may speak. Board discussion on length of public comments noting they
   wanted transparency, but general parameters should be set. Geoff to place on next agenda. No
   action taken.
9. William L. moved to continue using the White River Valley Herald as the Newspaper of
   choice with Leyna seconding the motion. Vote was unanimous.
10. Geoff started off with:
    2
    (F) designation of Selectboard to be liasons and it was determined that liasons should wait until
    another meetings so the Board knows where their expertise lies. Geoff then jumped back to the
    top of the agenda listing.
    A. Appoint AA or Selectboard Clerk. Town Clerk was asked if she would continue to take
    meeting notes until the AA position was filled. The Clerk responded yes.
    B. Designation of members to sign the orders/warrants on the off week. Kevin M. moved Kelly
    Lyford and Geoff Clayton be designees to sign warrants/orders on the off week. Vote was
    unanimous.
    C. Determining Agenda content and coordination. Geoff stated Chair of the Board created it and
    disseminated it to Board Members via email and they email back any items they would like
    added to it. Board decided to continue with the ongoing process.
    D. Approval of Village Greens Requests. Geoff explained most of the requests are done through
    the AA office. Marianne McCann stated she has given verbal permission in the past but the
    Board usually signed off on the requests.
    E. Approval of Roberts Gould Field Requests. Geoff explained again that most requests were
    done through Lou Maraget and the AA office and the Board signed them at meetings. They
    usually provide insurance coverage to use the fields.
    F. Board discussion on liaison positions but No action taken. To be taken up at another meeting.
    Discussion about next meeting time. It was decided that the Board would have a Special Meeting
    on January 12, 2023, Geoff to draft the agenda.
11. Town Clerk- Karen reported there are two contracts already signed off by the prior Board,
    the Orange County Sheriff’s Department and First Branch Ambulance.
12. Gayle stated she gave a printed budget to the new members. She said the Auditor has agreed
    to do the Audit but she had no paperwork for the Board to sign yet. Geoff said usually two
    people work on the budget, then presented it to others, otherwise Gayle would be continually
    explaining it to everyone. Kelly Lyford stated she wanted more transparency and felt everyone
    should understand the budget process before signing off. She wanted to know if the Board would
    do meetings for budget on the off weeks. No decision was made andGeoff stated they were
    running out of time. This was an unprecedented time. Gayle noted that there would have been
    meetings with Department Heads but no Board meant no meetings for the last month and a half.
13. Water/Sewer System Update. Geoff relayed he thought Mike was being stretched thin and
    we would need to budget more for the positions. Kevin M. explained he wanted to have a walkthrough Mike Whipple at the Sewer Plant and would check on that with Mike about the 21st
    3
    on a morning and stressed everyone should do the walk-through. Gayle requested someone from
    the Board reach out to Nolan LaFrancis to see if he was coming back as we could only hire a part
    time person until we knew whether Nolan was coming back. Leyna asked about coverage at the
    sewer plant. Marianne McCann said there was a link on the website for hours. No action taken.
    Geoff to put on next meeting agenda.
14. Marianne McCann gave a brief report on the Town Report and stated a timeline for it.
15. AA. Update- Town Clerk just the contracts Gayle had nothing more.
16. Executive Session for Human Resources. No executive session. Geoff felt that the Board
    should have interview times set up and Town Clerk to send additional information to the Board
    on who applied for AA and Sewer Plant. Kevin M. also noted that the Road Crew was still
    understaffed. Some discussion on the VLCT Municipal & Benefits Report. It was brought up the
    Town is underpaying employees by an average of $9.00/hour. Karen to send link to all Board
    Members. Geoff felt maybe it was time to go to salaried positions. Again, no action taken. To be
    on a future agenda for budget.
    Kevin M. thanked everyone n who kept the Town moving forward during this time.
17. Leyna H. moved to adjourn with William L. seconding the motion. Vote was unanimous.
    Meeting adjourned at 8:24 AM.

Chelsea Selectboard Meeting Minutes (Draft)
Tuesday, November 1, 2022 at 7:31 PM at Chelsea Town Hall
Selectboard Members present: Levar Cole, Mark Whitney, Bruce Hook, Geoff Clayton, Merrill Whitney
Other Town Employees present: Karen Lathrop, Town Clerk, Gayle Durkee, Treasurer, Rick Ackerman,
Road Foreman.
Members of the Public: Cindy Allen, Emily Newman

1. Call Meeting to Order
   Meeting called to order at 7:31 pm by Levar Cole, Chair
2. Conflict of Interest disclosure
   None reported
3. Changes to agenda
   Cole added TRORC budget piece under Department Liaison Updates
4. Town Clerk
   Lathrop gave brief update to Board on election concerns as to whether write-ins on ballots might show up as overvote if voters did not stay within the box for the write-in candidate
5. Treasurer
   a. Budget Status- All areas okay but Highway Fuel is at 162% with fuel prices increasing. This led to a Board discussion on backup plan if fuel becomes scarce in the winter and needs are not met by suppliers. Concerns are high, as Fire and Ambulance pull from the same fuel tank. Rick states the tank is 1000 gallons and it is filled weekly. Bruce and Rick to create a plan for winter, Mark to speak with Tracy Simon, on emergency plan. Board position at this point is if fuel supplies run low this winter, Town won’t be doing business as usual. Discussion on prioritization/rationing of fuel assets. Rick states there is no
   issue with salt. Cargill stated supply should be fine.
   Gayle noted she paid all appropriations but not the Fire Dept as we collect their taxes. School taxes have to be paid (1.7 million). Over$ 687,000 of taxes are still outstanding. She has concerns there might not be enough money even with ARPA fund and a line of credit might be necessary, She noted the line credit is usually $ 450,000.
   Action Item: Geoff Clayton moves Gayle seek a line of credit for $300,00.00 to cover Town in the event not enough revenue comes in. Motion seconded by Levar Cole. Voted by unanimous consent of the Board.
   b. Orders- Question by Mark Whitney as to cost of Brake Cans on order. Discussion by Board
   and Rick as to cost, quality and warranty. Mark to check on costs at other supplier.
   Action Item: Mark moved to approve orders. Motion seconded by Geoff. Board voted approval by unanimous consent.
   Gayle presented new lease from Mullens for Treasurer/Admin Office. Lease increasing by
   $100.00/month. Cole noted it will be on the next agenda.
6. Department/Liaison Updates
   a. Bruce went over the questions asked of Rick on 10/22/2022 about Klondike Rd unpermitted excavation. No site plan, 48 hour notice was given verbally, no application submitted, there was a request by the land owner via phone call, which Rick could not reply to as lost cell number. Rick only spoke with Tad Boardman the morning of excavation.
   Cole noted that the Town a policy on work within the right of way has been in place since 2012, and there is also Statute on it. The Board expectations are for the process to be followed and the process was not followed. Merrill noted the person should get the paperwork from the Clerk’s Office or the Admin’s Office. Bruce stated everyone in this day and age knows permits are a requirement. Geoff shared the legal advice he received. The legal opinion was that the Town not to allow a line under a road as it creates a liability for the Town. Geoff not in favor of it. Mark noted there are other lines under the roads that pre-date this current Board but fell within the timeline of when the policy was put in place.
   Chair requested the Clerk to look through the records for permits. Merrill stated the applicant will claim he spoke with the Road Foreman and received permission. Road Foreman note many people work in the Right of Way without permits. Levar noted the discussion is about utility under the Town Right of Way in this issue. Geoff’s concern iTs still Town liability. Levar made it clear the permitting process needs to be done correctly not what past practice has been. Levar stated for the record that Town Policy and Statute
   were not followed and it must be followed in the future. Mark’s concern is equitable treatment for all.
   Road Foreman stated he knows going forward that State Statute must be followed.
   Board discussion on how to notify applicant of unpermitted work. Road Forman in favor of Board notification as they sign the permit. Levar noted when permits are granted the Road Foreman was the messenger so why wouldn’t he be the messenger for this.
   Cindy Allen asked questions about whether he would be able to even get a permit, what with the laywer’s advice. Levar stated as of now they want the road restored. Work was done on the road unpermitted and without the supervision of the Road Foreman. He noted the road has considerable settlement. The landowner has not submitted a permit so they haven’t ruled on it. She expressed concern that the Road Foreman would be out there again doing it all over. Mark noted the Road Foreman does not do the work. Merrill notd the Lawyer gave advice and shouldn’t the Board follow it.
   Levar stated to do that the Board would have to re-write a specific policy and rescind the current one. Geoff expressed concern and would like to see the applicants in the future sign a release from liability. Levar thinks that is already in our policy. There was a discussion on permits that come before the Board that have a necessity for a permit Levar to write letter to send to Admin Assistant to put on Letterhead.
   Action Item : Geoff moves to have the landowner remove the pipe (utility) and restore the road to its original condition. Motion seconded by Levar Cole. . Board voted approval by unanimous consent.
   Garage Structure passed over.
   Hook Road Guardrail still in progress, expected to be finished in a day. Discussion on guardrail parts.
   Pepper Road done
   Bobbinshop bridge guardrail was damaged. The Board discussion with Rick as to company liable, bridge damage, none. Discussion on permits to be on the roads. Mark stated it is a State permit. Clerk states it is the overweight permit. Not every trucker gets them if it is a one day delivery. The DOT would have to see it happen, then they would have to file a permit violation. Treasurer questioned whether the company liable should find a company to do the installation. Road Foreman said bridge needs heavier rails. Bruce, highway liaison, Rick and Gayle to work on that project together.
   Moved to Agenda Item 13 Human Resources – Executive Session before Merrill Whitney had to leave.
   Action Item: Levar moved to go into executive session for Hurman Resources (1 VSA 313 (a) 3) at 8:40 PM. Seconded by Geoff. Gayle Durkee invited to stay.
   Board exited executive session at 8:43 PM – No action taken Merrill Whitney left the meeting.
   Bruce continued to his Liaison report. Reported pipeline on Town Farm Road was rolled up. Levar concerns that they would need a permit to do that. Bruce also noted many people do work on the roads just to be nice. How would the Board deal with that. Is there Town liability for that? Board asked Road Foreman’s opinion. Rick stated they don’t really look at it. Bruce stated he needs an answer in order to answer people calling him. Levar’s thoughts- maybe consider that in the road plan being created.
   Geoff’s thoughts- if not changing the road structure it could be written in. Road Foreman concernwould that create a liability to the Road Foreman. Mark Whitney’s concern, liability through knowledge.
   Bruce to work on that for the Road Plan.
   Equipment Plan Update- Board looked at the plan submitted by Rick. Listing of equipment and projected replacement dates. Geoff to send a pic of it. Levar would like it on the December agenda.
   Levar moved up to
7. Public Comments
   Cindy Allen would like Board support for the newsletter, the Chelsea Spotlight. Stated other Towns support their newsletter. She asked for support so they can become a non-profit that is cost prohibited. The newsletter would come out twice a year. To file for a non-profit consists of many fees. She noted the Town has the rec committee under it’s umbrella. They are requesting being a line item in the budget or asked for an appropriation ($1000.00). She read their goals and content. Levar spoke to speech paid for by government. Geoff spoke to whether this could come under the Historical Society? Also if it was a Town Committee it would need a charter. There are options out there to do this. Cindy thanked the Board and it will be considered.
   Levar moved to Agenda Item 8.
   Budget Discussion for Highway as Rick was present. Rick noted he had a few items to share
   before the budget. He gave an update on the Beaver’s and Dam. Dam was taken out, Beavers left to go to Mize’s pond. One was relocated, one dispatched.
   Rick questioned how to input his hours for the Wastewater Plant. Levar stated for switching the flow chart. Levar asked if it was a daily event? Yes. Levar informed the Board that Rick has been doing it every day but stated John can do it also. Levar said they were covering their time for that. Rick says they have to come down on the weekends also and needs to know how to put in hours. Is it a 2 hour call in or hourly? Is it a total of 3 hours? Board feels it is an emergency situation and it should be the call in time and the other hour for a total of three. Just stay coordinated with Mike Whipple.
   Rick requested Board guidance on whether he should be doing the sidewalks and Town Hall steps. Board discussion on having John doing it. Rick stated John’s route is longer which is why he does it. Just does not want people coming back to him on it. Board backs him unanimously on it. Rick to follow the same process as he has but if they get extra custodian hours that might change. Rick brought up the sidewalk in front Haywards on North Common. Geoff stated he could speak with him. Brush needs to be cut back
   in order to get it plowed and salted.
   Rick asked if the Board wants him to chop the leaves up on the common. Board would like John to do that when he comes back from vacation. Hold off for a week. Rick also asked about the two dead trees.
   Mark is working on it.
   Board and Rick went through the Highway Budget. Rick said salaries dropped a little because there are only 3 full time and could cut back some. Overtime, depends on mud season. VEMERS is increasing,
   Gayle noted because it is going up to 5% until July and 5.25% after July. Rick stated up equipment repairs up as the equipment is getting older. Garage Technology is up due to protection plan for the laptop. Heating fuel/electricy. Propane has not gone up much. $5,000 heating. Last year was $4500.00 and two months to go. Gayle stated the Town was locked in at the price for the fuel.
   Rick stated we are at $60,000 for diesel some of the total amount spent was ambulance and fire Gayle said ambulance payed quarterly and the fire dept was annually. She noted equipment payments were less. Board wanted to know if the equipment repairs could be broken out if they need to see costs per vehicle.
   Rick reported McCulloughs told him material prices were going up fifty cents/yard and they may not have any sand left at the Barre pit. Board questioned where would they get it. Rick stated they would have to look around. Town usually gets 4,000 yards. He wants tostay at that amount. Average for Town is 3,7000. Manufactured sand is expensive. Washed screened is 18.25/yard. Total cost of sand would be 162.000.00. Mark states that just gives us an idea of what we will be looking at. Rick stated salt is the same. Town uses 200-230/tons. Last year was $73.94/ton. This year would be $86.00/ton. This year he said he has used 162 ton and has about 22 tons left with November and December to go. He said Cargill assured him there was no issue with obtaining salt.
   Levar asked about the guardrails. Rick stated there was a guardrail that was damaged last winter on Washington Turnpike that will have to be replace Levar told the Board if they had any questions about the budget to contact Bruce/Rick.
   Went back to agenda
   6 Depatment/Liaison
   b. Transfer Station- Geoff reported electric fence will go up in spring. There’s always an issue
   with the locks. Geoff could co-ordinate a key drop off.
   c. Water/Wastewater -Levar ran down the two week roster that Mike Whipple co-ordinated .
   he noted the Town still needed a long term plan if Nolan is not back in a couple a weeks. The State is being supportive. Mike/Tracy/ Levar would call the State if there was any issues and the Board notified as soon as possible.
   d. Public Safety- Levar asked Mark to hold off on the contracts.
   e. Grounds- Mowing Bid – Mark reported he had the old one from 2016 and it needed the
   three FEMA properties added to it and dates updated. Geoff had question about the old Battey property that Frank was mowing. Board said he has an easement to get to the other property. Mark stated Rick had it on it on his time card so it should go on the RFP. Board chose December 15, 2022 for date to submit by and December 20, 2022 bid opening at the Selectboard meeting.
   Action Item: Mark moved to approve the updated RFP for Town Property Maintenance Services with Geoff seconding the motion. Board voted to approve the motion.
   f. Administration- Health Insurance- Levar reported he looked at it from the standpoint of
   competitiveness that our people would appreciate it as everything is going up in cost. He asked Gayle her opinion. She reported the Town has always gone with the Platinum Plan. MVP is less Blue Cross is a little more. Board has asked for input from employees, but nothing has been forthcoming.
   Action item: Levar moved the Board choose the MVP Platinum Plan for the Town Health Insurance option with Mark seconding the motion. Board voted to approve the motion.
   Purchase Policy Amendment- Levar asked if it was read. Gayle said she read it. She wondered about the second part where there were purchases that were not normally used. Levar said the Town does not want employees to purchase using their own cards. That is the reason for the amendment. No one is using personal card.
   Action item: Levar moved to amend the Town of Chelsea Purchase Polciy. Change page 5. To
   exceptions/value services. The values in this section is hereby changed from $10,000.00 to $20,000.00.
   The second amendment to be the Town Treasurer/Administrative Assistant may use a purchase/debit card for purchases approved by the Selectboard, whether it be a recurring such as online subscription services or one time purchases both of which would include items and services unordinarily unable to procure without the purchase of a debit card. Approved by the Selectboard on this date. Geoff seconded the motion.
   Levar spoke with previous board members who had put the purchase policy in place and they said the $10,000.00 limit had just been picked out of the air. He noted that there were no bids for audit services so the Board would need to purchase them and they would cost significantly more than $10,000.00.
   Board voted to approve the motion.
8. a. Hiring for Administrative Assistant – Executive Session
   Action Item: Levar Cole moved to enter into executive session for Human Resources ( 1 VSA 313 (a) 3) at 10 PM and invited the Town Clerk and Treasurer to stay. Motion seconded by Mark Whitney. Board voted to approve the motion.
   Board exited executive session.at 10.03.PM
   Action- Levar to set up an interview.
   Levar adjourned the meeting to November 2, 2022 immediately following the BCA meeting.
   Meeting re-opened at November 2, 2022 at 7:30 PM
   Selectboard present: Levar Cole, Mark Whitney, Merrill Whitney, Geoff Clayton. Bruce came in at 7:39.
   Other Town Employees: Town Clerk
   Other persons present: Emily Betts Newman, Ed Kuban, Tracy Simon
   Levar called the meeting to order at 7:30 PM
9. Department/Liaison Updates
   d. Contracts -Public Safety Orange County Sheriff Department Contract & First Branch
   Ambulance Service.
   Action Item: Mark moved to approve the First Branch Ambulance Contract with Geoff seconding the motion. The Board voted approval of the motion.
   Levar noted for the Orange County Sheriff’s Dept Contract that the Sheriff has always crossed out section 5. It was not crossed off last time, and the Board does not see why it should be crossed out.
   Action Item: Mark moved to approve the Orange County Sheriff’s Dept Contract the sum not to exceed $12,500.00. Geoff seconded the motion. The Board voted approval of the motion.
   10.
   a: Village Greens/Roberts Gould Field Requests- None
   b: Art/Pellet Furnace Update – None
   c: FEMA Mapping comments. Tracy looked at the correspondence. She reported that they look at the watershed area. They review information, have a discovery phase and ask for comments. The map is on a secure server. This does not affect our Town and if it did, that would entail the Planning Board making a comment as it is their purview. They are looking at the Connecticut River but not the First Branch of it. Board thanked Tracy for her comments.
   Back Agenda item 6.
   d. Other Grants- Generator- Levar spoke with Kasey on the generator grant. The State
   Historical Preservation has no issue with burying the propane tank unless we hit ledge. She will call Dig Safe to have any lines marked. Still need to have a few electrical items that need to be completed. The big issue is the grant has to go in by November 15, 2022. Timeline is short. If we miss the window on the grant, it will still be a high priority ARPA item.
   Creamery Project- Levar reports the Creamery Grant is still a thorny issue. Conflicting
   reviews by two state entities. Kasey reported we can’t use Grants In Aid because it is a private property.
   The Board discussion included concerns about where the water contamination starts, water not coming off just Town Property, Brownfields, Cemetery Town Land, liability if Town work goes forward, improving private property with Town funds. Geoff states we have not made contaminated water at this point. We should avoid that at all costs for liability. Emily said the previous owner dumped all kinds of stuff at the Creamery. Geoff believes the Board should get an environmental lawyer’s opinion before going forward with this project. He believes the Road Foreman should not be speaking on the Town’s behalf about this project. Emily asked how long ago was this discovered. Geoff reported about three years ago. Board approved Levar to contact Kasey to call an environmental lawyer to get options.
   e. Audit – Levar reported now that the purchase policy is amended he would ask Gayle to call some companies and see if we can hire one as we did not receive any bids.
   Levar asked to go back to Mark and Bruce for updates. Mark to give an update on parts that came under 5b, Orders. And Bruce on Highways, as Levar had a voice mail on his phone.
   Mark reported he called Fleet Pride about brake cans. Fleet Pride said they do offer a neoprene reinforced brake can. That was still cheaper. The comparable brake can with the four year warranty at significantly lower price ( $56)/can) than the ones that had been ordered. The total bill for the Allegiance was $567.00. Board chose to go with the cheaper model . This company wants to work more with Municipalities. Board discussion on cost effectiveness for repairs, parts and best use of time of town employees. Bruce to discuss this with the Road Foreman Levar stated last night that Rick wanted the Board to contact the owner on Klondike Road about restoring the road. The Board made the accommodation and Levar would write the letter. Levar shared with the Board he received a voice mail from the landowner on Klondike Road saying Rick called him to speak about the unpermitted work within the right of way. He said he wanted to make it right and fix the hole in the road. Bruce said write the letter Mark said just smoothing out the road is not acceptable and reported what other Towns have done. Geoff said he wanted a laywer’s opinion. Board still wanted
   Levar to write the letter as agreed the night before. No one wanted to reconsider the motion made the night before.
   Board expressed that Bruce should have a conversation with Road Foreman about following the direction of the Board after they made an accommodation for him, so he would not have to speak with the landowner, as he said he did not want to be the messenger. Bruce asked if the letter to the landowner would be certified. Levar asked Karen what she has done. She
   replied registered letter with return receipt.
   Levar said he won’t answer the message but if he gets a phone call, he will tell the landowner a letter would be forthcoming.
   Merrill Whitney, noted that the Road Foreman was on Whitney Lyman Road the other day and filling rough spots with stone and did not feel it was necessary. Rick has been told to conserve diesel fuel and money at this point. Bruce reported work on Hook Rd was completed.
   Jump to Agenda Item 10
   f- Americans with Disabilities Act- Levar reported a person asked him about ATV’s again. He
   was told someone had a medical condition that makes him immobile and wants to ride an ATV as mobility device and the ADA says you have to make accommodations for that. He said he called VLCT about it and they said that because our Town does not have an ordinance. That if someone were to aske us for an accommodation, we would have to approve it by Federal Law. No one has made a request but Levar reported he did his due diligence and was letting the Board know. Merrill wanted to know if they needed a disabled plaque for it. Levar stated Federal Law says Towns have to assume a person has a
   disability.
   Merrill Whitney left.
   11.
   a. Administrative Assistant – Emily Newman wanted to know if she can put a proposal in to do some of the AA work. The Board said feel free to send in the proposal.
   b. Water/Wastewater Assistant Operator – Levar stated he wanted to re-advertise the position and put $25/hr negotiable and hours negotiable again. Karen asked how hours could be negotiable and Levar said there are some automation features that haven’t been used but could be utilized going forward. Board is in favor of going forward with this.
   Action Item: Levar moved to have himself to work with the AA/Gayle revise the
   advertisement out again with $25.00/hour negotiable and hours negotiable. Mark seconded the motion. Board voted to approve the motion.
   Added to Agenda- Levar let the Board know that TRORC dues for the year will be $2010. It is a line item in our budget.
10. Approve Minutes
    Action Items:
    Levar moved to approve the September 6, 2022 minutes. Seconded by Geoff. Board approved motion.
    Levar moved to approve the September 20, 2022 minutes as revised. Seconded by Geoff. Board
    approved motion.
    Levar moved to approve the September 24, 2022 Special Meeting minutes. Seconded by Geoff. Board
    moved to approve motion.
    Levar moved to approve the October 18, 2022 Special Meeting minutes. Seconded by Mark. Board
    moved to approve the motion.
    Adjourned 8:47 Pm