Roll Call:
Councilors Matt Sturgis, Mark Grover, Matt Doughty, Peter Gellerson, Margaret Hutchins
Town Manager Deborah Cabana
Others present and speaking: James Monroe, Ray Clark, Gary Foster, Ed Libby, Richard Barter, Dean Bennett, Leo Credit, Tina Martell, Bruce Sawyer, Tracy Scheckel, Ann Gass, Rhiannon Welch, Fire Chief Morrison.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag:
Minutes from Previous Meetings:
Approval of June 15, 2010, Town Council Minutes
Councilor Grover moved; Councilor Sturgis seconded.
Ordered the Gray Town Council approves June 15, 2010 Town Council Minutes, as corrected.
Councilor Grover commented that on page 3, Library Trustees Report- Library Trustees should replace the word “they.”
He also indicated that for Item #131-10, Councilor Grover seconded.
Councilor Hutchins stated that on page 2, last paragraph the word “to” should be added.
Councilor Gellerson commented on page 5 to strike a phrase.
Minutes of special Town Meeting
Councilor Grover stated that the vote counts were not listed nor was more details Andy Upham’s comment on Article 2 on why he chose to request his motion.
He recommends tabling this item.
Town Manager Cabana indicated that there are both electronic and hard copies of records of meetings.
Councilor Sturgis agreed with Councilor Grover’s suggestions and comments.
The group agreed to postpone the vote until the next meeting.
First Order of Business:
Public Comments of Non-Agenda Items – (limit 3 minutes per person)
James Monroe asked about the $250,000 from the crisis fund and whether or not that is the remaining balance of $250,000. Town Manager Cabana stated that there is over $1 million in the account. He asked why. She stated that it is 1/12th of the total budget (town, county, school). She stated that this is the auditor’s perspective that should be in this account. James commented that he is concerned about the significant Town Manager’s increase while employees got little.
Ray Clark stated that he was on the charter commission and the amount required for the crisis fund is correct.
Councilor Sturgis cited the section in the Town Charter on the crisis fund requirements.
Second Order of Business:
Reports from the Council Chair:
Councilor Gellerson stated that the Pennell dedication is July 24th and gave an overview of the day’s events.
Reports from the Town Manager: NONE
Committee Reports:
Councilor Sturgis stated that the Portland Press Herald will be doing a story on the Pennell project. It should be in an upcoming edition. He also commented on the carpeting for the building. The manufacturer will not meet the July 24th deadline. The recommendation was to use the carpet ordered but it will be installed shortly after the 24th.
He also commented on the grant for the Dry Mills School House. Gray did not receive the grant. There was a discussion on contingency plans for the project. Councilor Sturgis asked about the public works trucks.
Town Manager Cabana stated that there is a lease agreement for other vehicles. Three will be replaced and the old ones will be auctioned off in the Fall.
Councilor Grover stated that the Dry Mills School House Committee met. He commented on the options for repairs such as using prisoners from the Windham Corrections Center to provide labor and asked if there are any funds from the public grounds account
Councilor Hutchins stated that the Public Safety Committee met on the mass gathering ordinance work and they are waiting for some final information from Doug Webster.
Gary Foster gave an update on ecomaine. The group had their annual meeting and gave an overview on the keynote speaker on the topic of food waste composting. He also commented on the borrowed money and that it has been repaid. He read the names of the new officers.
Council Correspondence: NONE
Third Order of Business:
Interviews:
Presentations:
- GPLA regarding proposed expansion to the Gray Public Library
Ray Clark gave an overview of the floor plan of the library and the areas that are serviced. He indicated that the library is too small for the town and the GPLA has been exploring the options for an expansion. They brought in an expert who indicated that much of the space is not utilized well and offered some suggestions. They propose switching the children’s and computer areas. They plan on purchasing one desk to house 8 computer stations which would save some space. There is also a proposed wall addition to create a meeting room. The Hancock Reading Room is proposed to be a young teen reading room. The GPLA has funding to build the wall. There would a necessity for some furniture. The GPLA would be willing to fundraise for this. They do not expect the Town to fund this, but only ask
that the library be closed for a couple of days to make these changes and updates.
Councilor Grover stated that this has been coordinated by the Library Trustees but that there will be others that will be involved
Councilor Doughty asked what the timeline is for these renovations. Ray Clark hopes to complete this by the winter. He commented that the advantages are that the bulk of the cost of the project is that much of it is portable (furniture and the like). Ray Clark estimated that the estimated cost is about $100,000 and will make the library more usable.
Councilor Hutchins asked if there is a slower time of the year for the library to be closed. Ray Clark stated that the library is always busy and would look for the least inconvenient time for patrons.
Councilor Gellerson asked about donations. Ray Clark stated that checks can be made to the GPLA and brought to the library or mailed to his home.
Councilor Grover stated that this project will provide another public meeting space available.
- Report on Signage from the CEDC
Ed Libby, Vice Chair of CEDC examined the most traveled gateways to the Town and discussed some signage that can be included. They have proposed some recommendations to the Town (which also meet MDOT criteria). The reasons are to continue the improvement to the Town and to improve vehicular safety, make the gateway into Gray more visually appealing and to promote a more welcoming atmosphere to the community.
He stated that the signs are vital for the above reasons and recommend that the Council consider following:
-Petition MDOT to review and relocate the signs
-Review and update the Town’s sign ordinance and give control of business directional signage.
-Apply for gateway grants for some welcome signage
Councilor Hutchins asked if MDOT has say on signage. Ed stated that welcome signs and the like can be decided by the Town.
Councilor Doughty asked if a study has been done in Gray on this issue. Ed doesn’t believe that there has been one.
Ed Libby stated that the CEDC is not advocating removing the business directional signs, but simply relocating them to a more appropriate place.
Councilor Grover asked if they have discussed this issue with Public Works Director. Ed Libby stated that they would leave that to the Town. He believes that this should also be discussed at the Public Safety Committee. Councilor Hutchins believes that they would be in support of this. He asked if they have brought some of these businesses into the discussion. Ed Libby said no since they don’t want them to be removed, only moved to better locations. Councilor Grover believes that they should be involved.
Ed Libby stated that they want MDOT to review the signs to begin the process.
Councilor Sturgis would like this to be one of the Council’s goals for this year as they are planning to review the sign ordinance and could include this as part of that.
Councilor Gellerson thanked Ed and the group for their work.
Dick Barter stated that as a businessman who complies with the signs he takes objections to those who do not. He believes that the signage should be such as to sell the Town. He believes that the issue is compliance. The Town does not have ordinances against parking in the center of Town for example. He urges the Council to look at a welcome sign and coordinate with businesses to have an appropriate, welcoming sign.
James Monroe stated that the Town has too many signs and is bothered by signs for businesses that no longer exist. He asked if there is a provision in the sign ordinance on this issue.
Public Hearing: Mobile Vendor license for Rhiannon Welch d/b/a Awesome Dogs located at 130 Portland Road and at Wilkies Beach.
No Public Comment
Fourth Order of Business: ORDERS
Item #001-11 To review and act upon setting a special Town Meeting to consider transferring $66,000 from existing reserves known as the Subdivision D Recreation Fund for the purposes of purchasing property located at 28 Main Street.
Councilor Sturgis moved; Councilor Hutchins seconded
Ordered the Gray Town Council sets a special Town Meeting on July 27, 2010, to consider transferring $66,000 from existing reserves known as the Subdivision D Recreation Fund for the purposes of purchasing property located at 28 Main Street.
Councilor Gellerson stated that there should not be a motion unless there is a specific date.
Councilor Sturgis stated that there is a purchase and sale agreement that appears to have 30 days for the closing and that the Town should act on or before July 29th. He believes it is in the best interest of the Town to do so before the 29th.
Town Manager Cabana indicated that there are 2 building lots adjacent to the Pennell property (1.36 acres) that have become available. There was no earnest money given. If the Town is interested in purchasing these lots, it requires a special Town Meeting and that there are funds available in the Subdivision D Recreation Fund for recreation and conservation purposes. She stated that if the funds in the account are not used, then it must be returned to those who have invested in the account.
James Monroe asked why the Town would buy the property. Councilor Gellerson stated that it is to add to the recreational activities that currently exist. James stated that buying property without a specific plan is not an appropriate use of the funds. He asked about the timeframe and obligation to return the funds that Town Manager Cabana discussed. Councilor Gellerson gave an overview of the process and the amount of funds put in by developers with subdivision projects.
Town Manager Cabana stated that the fund has a time limit (likely 10 years) and if the funds are not used within the timeframe, it must then be returned to the developers.
James Monroe commented on the ongoing issue of public lake access. He would suggest that the recreation access purposes impact the greatest number of people and would suggest having public lake access.
Dean Bennett agreed with James Monroe’s comment about lake access but this potential purchase is an easy one to consider. Gray is behind the minimum recreation standards for a town of this size. While small acreage, it can be used for a number of youth soccer programs as there are a number of families with young children. The purchase makes sense for open space. It could be used for a number of things for the public as well.
Councilor Doughty supports this purchase but asked if there is sufficient square footage for ball fields.
Dean Bennett stated that there is sufficient space for a potential outside meeting space or youth soccer fields, walking paths, even a gazebo or small stage for concerts in the summer.
Gary Foster suggested reviewing the timeline for any unused funds.
Tina Martell stated much of this evening’s discussion is attracting people and business to the Town. There is not enough flat green space in this Town and that the possibilities would be beneficial to the Town to bring in and keep new residents and businesses. The school is at capacity for their activity spaces. This account was set-up for this purpose. She supports this purchase.
Leo Credit stated that as part of the Gray Village Master Plan it included design goals. This purchase can also include walking and biking paths as part of the master plan. He stated that it is a part of the economic development plan as this could be used as public meeting space that the community could have pride to be a part of. He supports the purchase.
Bruce Sawyer stated that flat green space is at a premium and this is an opportunity to purchase this good green space and is ideally suited for recreation space. He wished it was larger and hopes to have some input to create this space and believes that this can bring in more commerce to the community.
Tracy Scheckel supports everyone’s comments and would like to have the Council agree to a Special Town Meeting for this.
Ann Gass stated that this purchase is in keeping with what the public is looking for.
Tina Martell stated that this is an example of social economics.
James Monroe stated that he does not oppose it but asked specifically where it is located. Councilor Sturgis stated that there is a 60ft right of way off Route 100 just before Colley Hill Rd. The property connects behind the ball fields behind Pennell. James Monroe suggests a curb cut to the property and suggests checking with the State on the right of way. He also stated that there doesn’t appear to be a consensus on expanding the Town and that there are still traffic issues here.
Town Manager Cabana stated that there has been discussion with MDOT on the curb cut issue and it is unlikely that they will be able to obtain it. She indicated that there is a 24ft easement and that a redirection of traffic in the Pennell complex would have to be made. The value of the 2 lots is $66,000.
Councilor Sturgis stated that impact fees timeline for this fund is generally 20 years. He stated that when an opportunity is presented, then the Town should act. He believes that the Recreation Committee can develop a plan with these lots. He believes that the purchase is good for the Town’s long range planning.
Councilor Grover believes that this purchase provides an exciting opportunity. He is concerned about the procedural steps that have been skipped in this. He believes that the Recreation and Conservation Committee has a responsibility to keep an inventory on possible purchases, that there should be public debate and review, as well as, their recommendations be made. He prefers to defer this until the Conservation Committee’s and the Planning Board’s review.
Councilor Doughty asked when these committees are meeting. Councilor Gellerson stated that it is possible that these 2 committees could meet prior to the Special Town Meeting. Councilor Doughty supports this purchase but believes that these committees should review this. He asked if the date for the Special Town Meeting can be changed.
Councilor Sturgis stated that there is a process for these committees but that they are not empowered to make the decision. It is up to the Council. The Council can act independently of the committee’s recommendations if they wish. The Council’s role is to make sure that the citizens have say at a Town Meeting.
Town Manager Cabana stated that there is a process that needs to be followed but that recommendations from the committees do not have to be followed if the Council chooses not to do so. She stated that it is possible that this property may not be available.
Councilor Hutchins stated that the Council should move forward with this.
Council Gellerson supports this purchase and the Special Town Meeting.
4 Yes/ 1No (Grover)
Item #002-11 To review and act upon approving the warrant articles for the Special Town Meeting.
Councilor Sturgis moved; Councilor Hutchins seconded.
Ordered the Gray Town Council approves the warrant articles for the Special Town Meeting to be held on July 27, 2010, at 7pm at NewBegin Center as presented.
4 Yes/ 1 No (Grover)
Item #003-11 To review and act upon approving a mobile vendor license for Rhiannon Welch d/b/a Awesome Dogs located at 130 Portland Road.
Councilor Sturgis moved; Councilor Hutchins seconded.
Ordered the Gray Town Council approves the mobile vendor license for Rhiannon Welch d/b/a Awesome Dogs located at 130 Portland Road subject to inspection and approval from the Code Enforcement Officer, Health Officer and Public Safety Inspector.
Councilor Sturgis asked Rhiannon Welch where at Wilkies Beach she would locate her business.
She stated by the parking lot. He stated that he’s concerned about her business on public property and the safety of people crossing etc. He stated that he is has apprehensions about using Wilkies Beach but is fine with 130 Portland Rd.
Rhiannon stated that being in the lot is safer and it is not a high traffic road. She stated that there was a hotdog cart there in the past.
Town Manager Cabana stated that a mobile cart vendor license requires a letter from the owner which she has but it is difficult for such a letter for Wilkies Beach. There was no way to get a decision on Wilkies Beach for Rhiannon.
Councilor Grover is comfortable with this application for this season and that it should be on a case by case basis. The location is a good one. He expressed concern about insurance and would want to be sure that she is insured.
Councilor Gellerson stated that a stipulation on coordination with the Town Manager, Code Enforcement Officer and Recreation Director should be included.
Town Manager Cabana stated that the CEO inspects the cart etc, but that this is a policy call for the Council as this is the first time such a request has been made. There are other mobile vendors who get permission from the property owners, but this request includes Town property and that abutters must be notified.
Councilor Hutchins is not comfortable with the request on Wilkies Beach and believes it would create future problems.
Councilor Doughty is mostly concerned about the specific location in the parking lot. He would like to get more input from Town staff.
Councilor Gellerson believes that the Council can support the 130 Portland Rd tonight but review the Wilkies Beach item further. Councilor Sturgis suggested having a discussion with Town staff on the best location.
Councilor Grover suggested adding a contingency in the motion. There was a discussion on the appropriate procedures for this motion. This includes Town staff discussion and feedback and notifying abutters.
Rhiannon Welch described her preferred location in the lot and stated that she would not be in the way of those parking.
Councilor Sturgis believes that approving the 130 Portland Rd and gathering more information for Wilkies Beach is appropriate
4 Yes/ 1 No (Gellerson)
Item #004-11 To review and act upon assigning Council liaisons. Sponsor- Town Council
LIAISON |
COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENT |
|
|
COUNCILOR Gellerson |
COMMUNITY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE |
Doughty |
GRAY GRANGE NO. 41 SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE |
Sturgis |
RECREATION AND CONSERVATION COMMITTEE |
Doughty |
PINELAND REPRESENTATIVE |
Doughty |
FAIR HEARING AUTHORITY |
Doughty |
CDBG |
|
|
COUNCILOR Gellerson |
ZONING BOARD OF APPLEALS |
Gellerson |
FAIR HEARING AUTHORITY |
Gellerson |
FINANCE COMMITTEE |
Sturgis |
BOARD OF ASSESSMENT REVIEW |
Gellerson |
GRAY BUSINESS ASSOCIATION (Gray/NG Business Corporation) |
Doughty |
(SPECIAL) STREET CONSTRUCTION ORDINANCE COMMITTEE |
|
|
COUNCILOR Sturgis |
CENTRAL CORRIDOR COALITION |
Sturgis |
PINELAND REPRESENTATIVE |
Sturgis |
GREATER PORTLAND COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS |
Gellerson |
PLANNING BOARD |
Sturgis/ to be disbanded |
(SPECIAL) TOWN OFFICE BUILDING COMMITTEE |
|
|
COUNCILOR Hutchins |
PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE |
Hutchins |
SOLID WASTE AND RECYCLING COMMITTEE |
Hutchins |
CHARLES BARKER SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE |
|
|
COUNCILOR Grover |
DRY MILLS SCHOOLHOUSE (MUSEUM) COMMITTEE |
Grover |
LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES |
Grover |
FAIR HEARING AUTHORITY |
Grover |
GREATER PORTLAND COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS ~(Alternate) |
Grover |
CENTRAL CORRIDOR COALITION |
|
|
|
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There was a discussion on committee changes.
Item #005-11 To review and act upon authorizing the Town Manager to enter into an Interlocal Agreement with the Town of Raymond for the purposes of providing first response coverage to Gray residents in District 6.
Councilor Sturgis moved; Councilor Grover seconded
Ordered the Gray Town Council authorizes the Town Manager to enter into an Interlocal Agreement with the Town of Raymond for the purposes of providing first response coverage to Gray residents in District 6.
Fire Chief Morrison stated that the Council requested that Gray provide coverage for District 6 but to continue discussion with Raymond. Beginning July 1st District 6 coverage is being done by Gray only.
The agreement provided is a good one for both Gray and Raymond.
He stated that under this agreement, this provides help from Raymond first but there is a simultaneous dispatch for both Raymond and Gray. When Gray arrives they will continue what Raymond has begun.
In the event that it is more complex issues (a structure fire, for example), Raymond would remain. Gray will get the rescue transport fees. Raymond will still provide a paramedic if needed at the current rates and agreements.
Councilor Sturgis thanked the Fire Chief for his efforts and it is a good arrangement. Councilor Grover stated that he supported the continued discussion and supports the outcome. Councilor Doughty supports this. Councilor Hutchins stated that she is not completely happy with this since Raymond prolonged and made the process difficult to get to the same result that the Council did not believe was neighborly and part of the mutual aid process.
Councilor Gellerson believes that it appears to be doubling efforts since both town’s go to the call. He asked if there are issues if the Town’s rescue isn’t available. Fire Chief Morrison stated that there are provisions for this. He supports the $10,000 flat fee as it eliminates counting calls and it is a good thing for the citizens on District 6.
Councilor Gellerson is disappointed with this, and believes it will create future problems with the relationship.
Councilor Grover asked about Gray’s patient evaluation process in this agreement.
5 Yes
Fifth Order of Business: ORDINANCES: NONE
Sixth Order of Business:
Council Business: - Discussion regarding Council Goals
Councilor Grover read the proposed Council Goals list.
Councilor Hutchins asked if there are any remaining items from last year.
There was an extensive discussion on the Council Goals list.
The following items from their list were accepted: Items #4, 13, 16, 18, 22, 25.
Seventh Order of Business:
Additions to the Agenda:
Councilor Gellerson stated that he suggests MDOT signage information be included in the August 3rd agenda.
Town Manager Cabana stated the Awesome Dogs’ request at Wilkies Beach should also be included.
Councilor Grover commented on the bylaws from the Library Trustees which may be decided upon.
Eighth Order of Business:
Council Action Items, Assignments and Issues Status:
Ninth Order of Business: Adjournment
Councilor Sturgis moved; Councilor Hutchins seconded
Motion to adjourn
5 Yes
The meeting ended at 10:10pm
Minutes approved and accepted August 3, 2010 by its Town Council:
_____________________________ ___________________________
Peter Gellerson, Council Chair Margaret Hutchins, Vice Chair
______________________________ ___________________________
Mark D. Grover Matthew Sturgis
_____________________________
Matthew Doughty
* The Town of Gray is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable equal access to public accommodations law. If you are planning to attend a Town Council or Town committee or board meeting and need assistance with a physical disability, please contact the Town Manager’s office at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting to have the Town assist you. 657-3339. TTY 657-3931.
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