Selectboard Meeting

January 12, 2004

Attending the meeting: Lynn Gardner, Andrea Morgante, Jon Trefry, Randy Volk, Rob Bast, Jeanne Wilson, Ted White and members of the Conservation Commission.

Ted White / Request for Budget Increase for Land Preservation Fund

Ted reviewed with the Board the proposed increase request for the Land Preservation Fund pointing out the cost of development to the Town in schooling children and other Town services. He stated Shelburne and Williston add .01 on the tax rate for funding.

Ted pointed out the Town Plan calls for maintaining a “rural atmosphere” and in the long run land preservation saves tax dollars.

Bill Marks reminded the Board that they need funds available before a project is available.

The Board agreed to support the request to increase funding by 2,500.

Jeanne advised the Conservation Commission members about the inquiry by Nextel to put a cell tower and equipment shed at Geprags Park.

Budget Planning Sessions

Overview

Review of Capital Budget – the Board reviewed with changes made at last meeting.

Expenditure Summary – increased land preservation to 7,500 / increased salary for clerk/treasurer by 7.5% / discussed the way overtime is recorded in highway but made no change there.

Revenue Summary – increase recording fees to 45,000

Growth in Grand List – 2.17%

Municipal Tax Rate Projection - .007 increase

Discussion of Town Meeting Warning and Articles – discussed equipment purchases in the capital budget – the year of purchase the request needs to be put to the voters for a vote noting the purchase amount and time line for pay off.

Other Busines

Approve Minutes of December 15, 2003: Jon moved that the Board vote to approve the minutes of December 15, 2003 as amended. Second by Andrea and approved with Randy and Andrea abstaining.

Approve Minutes of December 29, 2003: Jon moved that the Board vote to approve the minutes of December 29, 2003. Second by Andrea and approved with Randy abstaining.

Additions to the Agenda

Munson Letter – The Board reviewed and signed the letter to the Munsons.

Rob moved the Board vote to adjourn at 8:30 p.m., second by Jon and approved.

Respectfully submitted,

Valerie Spadaccini, secretary