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Town Meeting May 13, 20032003 TOWN MEETING
The annual Town Meeting of the Town of Hanover, New Hampshire convened on May 13, 2003 at 7:00 am by the Town Moderator, Marilyn "Willy" Black, at the Hanover High School Gymnasium. Moderator Black explained that the polls would be open from 7:00 am until 7:00 pm for the purpose of voting for candidates for Town Offices and for all other articles requiring vote by official ballot as set forth in Articles One through Eleven of the Town Meeting Warrant.
Moderator Black advised that hearing assistive devises were available for those with hearing impairments.
After the polls were closed at 7:00 pm, the following eleven articles voted on throughout the day were tabulated.
ARTICLE ONE: To vote (by nonpartisan ballot) for the following Town Officers:
Two Selectmen, each to serve for a term of three (3) years:
William Baschnagel 951 (elected)
Michael J. Ahern 1,233 (elected)
Tom Jacobs 1,198 (elected)
M. Lee Udy 1,219 (elected)
One Trustee of Trust Funds to serve for a term of three (3)
years:
"Are you in favor of the adoption of Amendment No. 1 as proposed by the Planning Board for the Hanover Zoning Ordinance as follows?"
Amendment No. 1 would amend Table 204.7 to permit "Hotel" as an additional use allowed by Special Exception in the Rural Residential District, provided that it is located on Route 10 (Lyme Road) and can be served by both public sewer and water.
At a Public Hearing held on April 1, 2003, the Hanover Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend that Town Meeting approve this zoning amendment.
RESULTS: YES: 1,148 NO: 302 ARTICLE PASSED
ARTICLE THREE: (to vote by ballot): To see if the Town will vote to amend the existing Hanover Zoning Ordinance as proposed by the Hanover Planning Board in Amendment No. 2. The following question is on the official ballot:
"Are you in favor of the adoption of Amendment No. 2 as proposed by the Planning Board for the Hanover Zoning Ordinance as follows?"
Amendment No. 2 would amend Section 210.1 A by eliminating semi-circular driveways and changing the number and types of extra driveways per lot which may be allowed by Special Exception granted by the Zoning Board of Adjustment, and by specifying the criteria under which the Zoning Board of Adjustment may grant such Special Exceptions.
At a Public Hearing held on April 1, 2003, the Hanover Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend that Town Meeting approve this zoning amendment.
RESULTS: YES: 980 NO: 448 ARTICLE PASSED
ARTICLE FOUR: (to vote by ballot): To see if the Town will vote to amend the existing Hanover Zoning Ordinance as proposed by the Hanover Planning Board in Amendment No. 3. The following question is on the official ballot:
"Are you in favor of the adoption of Amendment No. 3 as proposed by the Planning Board for the Hanover Zoning Ordinance as follows?"
Amendment No. 3 would amend Section 318.10 by specifying that this section refers to temporary storage, rather than stockpiling, of earth materials; by increasing the exemption from 10 to 15 cubic yards of such materials in the GR and SR zoning districts in any two-year period; by adding an exemption for projects which are subject to Site Plan and Subdivision regulations; and by enabling the Zoning Board of Adjustment to allow a longer period of time for completion of relevant site work.
At a Public Hearing held on April 1, 2003, the Hanover Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend that Town Meeting approve this zoning amendment.
RESULTS: YES: 1,214 NO: 207 ARTICLE PASSED
ARTICLE FIVE: (to vote by ballot): To see if the Town will vote to amend the existing Hanover Zoning Ordinance as proposed by the Hanover Planning Board in Amendment No. 4. The following question is on the official ballot:
"Are you in favor of the adoption of Amendment No. 4 as proposed by the Planning Board for the Hanover Zoning Ordinance as follows?"
Amendment No. 4 would amend Section 323.3 by adding to the list of exemptions from noise limitations emergency generators and other emergency equipment when operating due to an emergency but requiring that testing or other planned operation of such equipment take place only during the daytime.
At a Public Hearing held on April 1, 2003, the Hanover Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend that Town Meeting approve this zoning amendment.
RESULTS: YES: 1,312 NO: 122 ARTICLE PASSED
ARTICLE SIX: (to vote by ballot): To see if the Town will vote to amend the existing Hanover Zoning Ordinance as proposed by the Hanover Planning Board in Amendment No. 5. The following question is on the official ballot:
"Are you in favor of the adoption of Amendment No. 5 as proposed by the Planning Board for the Hanover Zoning Ordinance as follows?"
Amendment No. 5 would amend Section 401.2 by specifying that parking credits may be purchased from the Town of Hanover to satisfy the parking requirements of the Zoning Ordinance.
At a Public Hearing held on April 1, 2003, the Hanover Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend that Town Meeting approve this zoning amendment.
RESULTS: YES: 1,005 NO: 413 ARTICLE PASSED
ARTICLE SEVEN: (to vote by ballot): To see if the Town will vote to amend the existing Hanover Zoning Ordinance as proposed by the Hanover Planning Board in Amendment No. 6. The following question is on the official ballot:
"Are you in favor of the adoption of Amendment No. 6 as proposed by the Planning Board for the Hanover Zoning Ordinance as follows?"
Amendment No. 6 would amend Section 1001.6 so that construction work on single- and two-family residential property may proceed, at the property owner's risk, upon issuance of zoning and building permits but prior to the expiration of a fifteen-day zoning permit posting period, as long as such work does not change the use of the property or change the footprint or volume of the existing building.
At a Public Hearing held on April 1, 2003, the Hanover Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend that Town Meeting approve this zoning amendment.
RESULTS: YES: 1,267 NO: 163 ARTICLE PASSED
ARTICLE EIGHT: (to vote by ballot): To see if the Town will vote to amend the existing Hanover Zoning Ordinance as proposed by petition in Amendment No. 7. The following question is on the official ballot:
"Are you in favor of the adoption of Amendment No.7 as proposed by petition for the Hanover Zoning Ordinance as follows?"
Amendment No. 7 would amend Table 204.4 "I" Institutional District by adding a restriction that within 300 feet of a residential district the maximum height may not exceed 45 feet.
At a Public Hearing held on April 1, 2003, the Hanover Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend that Town Meeting not approve this zoning amendment.
RESULTS: YES: 414 NO: 1,042 ARTICLE DEFEATED
ARTICLE NINE: (to vote by ballot): To see if the Town will
vote to amend the existing Hanover Zoning Ordinance as proposed
by petition in Amendment No. 8. The following question is on
the official ballot:
Amendment No. 8 would amend Table 204.4 "I" Institutional District by adding to the setback requirements a stipulation that for parking facilities serving twenty or more vehicles on lots adjoining residential districts the minimum side and rear setbacks adjoining the districts shall be 75 feet.
At a Public Hearing held on April 1, 2003, the Hanover Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend that Town Meeting not approve this zoning amendment.
RESULTS: YES: 403 NO: 1,070 ARTICLE DEFEATED
ARTICLE TEN: (to vote by ballot): To see if the Town will vote to amend the existing Hanover Zoning Ordinance as proposed by petition in Amendment No. 9. The following question is on the official ballot:
"Are you in favor of the adoption of Amendment No. 9 as proposed by petition for the Hanover Zoning Ordinance as follows?"
Amendment No. 9 would amend Table 204.4 "I" Institutional District by adding to the setback requirements a stipulation that for buildings on lots adjoining residential districts the minimum front yard setback within 300 feet of the adjoining districts shall be 30 feet.
At a Public Hearing held on April 1, 2003, the Hanover Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend that Town Meeting not approve this zoning amendment.
RESULTS: YES: 385 NO: 1,082 ARTICLE DEFEATED
ARTICLE ELEVEN: (to vote by ballot): To see if the Town will vote to amend the existing Hanover Zoning Ordinance as proposed by petition in Amendment No. 10. The following question is on the official ballot:
"Are you in favor of the adoption of Amendment No. 10 as proposed by petition for the Hanover Zoning Ordinance as follows?"
Amendment No. 10 would amend Table 204.4 "I" Institutional District so that one-family dwellings become permitted uses rather than uses allowed by Special Exception.
At a Public Hearing held on April 1, 2003, the Hanover Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend that Town Meeting not approve this zoning amendment.
RESULTS: YES: 374 NO: 1,052 ARTICLE DEFEATED
Moderator Marilyn "Willy" Black called to order the Business Session of the 2003 Town Meeting of the Town of Hanover, New Hampshire at 7:06 pm. Selectmen present included: Brian Walsh, Chairman; Katherine Connolly, Vice-Chairman; William Baschnagel; Judson Pierson; and Peter Christie. Town Manager, Julia Griffin was also in attendance. Community Access Television (Channel 6) broadcasted the Town Meeting live and recorded to rebroadcast.
Moderator Black said this was the 238th time the Town had assembled for Town Meeting. This was a credit to the Town and all those who participated. She introduced Town staff in attendance including: Pete Kulbacki, Director of Public Works; William Desch, Urban Forester; Roger Bradley, Fire Chief; Corey Stevens, IT Director; Mike Ryan, Director of Assessing; Barry Cox, Director of Human Resources; Betsy McClain, Director of Administrative Services; Dena Romero, Community Counselor; Judith Brotman, Zoning Administrator; Ryan Borkowski, Building Inspector; Vicki Smith, Senior Planner; Barbara Prince, Librarian at the Etna Library; Hank Tenney, Recreation Director; Nick Giaccone, Police Chief; John Dumas, Water & Wastewater Treatment Superintendent; and Marlene McGonigle, Director of the Howe Library. Moderator Black also introduced Julia Griffin, Town Manager; and Walter Mitchell, the Town's attorney who was also in attendance.
Moderator Black reminded Town Meeting of their action the prior year to vote to dispense of the third reading of the Warrant Articles. She asked for a show of hands to dispense of the third reading of the Warrant Articles at the current meeting. By a show of hands Town Meeting voted to dispense of the third reading of the Warrant Articles.
ARTICLE TWELVE: To choose the following Town Officers to be elected by a majority vote: One member of the Advisory Board of Assessors for a term of three (3) years; Three Fence Viewers, each for a term of one (1) year; Two Surveyors of Wood and Timber, each for a term of one (1) year; One Pine Park Commissioner for a term of three (3) years; Such other Officers as the Town may judge necessary for managing its affairs.
Selectman Walsh moved to nominate the following persons to the following offices:
One member of the Advisory Board of Assessors for a term of
three (3) years - John Hochreiter;
The motion was seconded.
There being no further nominations, a voice vote was taken on Selectman Walsh's motion. The motion PASSED and the nominees were ELECTED.
ARTICLE THIRTEEN: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of $3,000,000 of a total expected cost of $4,705,000 for the purpose of preliminary design, pilot work, preparing plans and specifications, construction services, and for the construction of wastewater improvements which includes a series of equipment upgrades designed to expand the biological treatment capacity of the facility and replacement of aging equipment as identified in an engineering report prepared in December, 2002, and to authorize issuance of not more than $3,000,000 of bonds or notes in accordance with the provisions of the New Hampshire Municipal Finance Act, RSA 33, and to take all action as may be necessary to carry out the purpose of this vote. Borrowing such sum through the issuance of traditional bonds and notes will only be undertaken if insufficient funds are available from the State Revolving Loan Fund, which is administered by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services. Funding for the debt service associated with the loan is paid for by wastewater rates paid by users of the wastewater system, and is not paid for by General Fund taxes. The balance of $1,705,000 or such part thereof as necessary to complete said project is to be raised by applicable State, Federal or other Grant programs, from $620,000 in contributions and fees received from Dartmouth College and Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, and from undesignated fund balance and the Wastewater Treatment Plant Fund Capital Reserve as proposed in Article Fourteen. A two-thirds ballot vote is required.
Selectman Christie moved that the Town vote to raise and appropriate the sum of $3,000,000 of a total expected cost of $4,705,000 for the purpose of preliminary design, pilot work, preparing plans and specifications, construction services, and for the construction of wastewater improvements which includes a series of equipment upgrades designed to expand the biological treatment capacity of the facility and replacement of aging equipment as identified in an engineering report prepared in December, 2002, and to authorize issuance of not more than $3,000,000 of bonds or notes in accordance with the provisions of the New Hampshire Municipal Finance Act, RSA 33, and to take all action as may be necessary to carry out the purpose of this vote. Borrowing such sum through the issuance of traditional bonds and notes will only be undertaken if insufficient funds are available from the State Revolving Loan Fund, which is administered by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services. Funding for the debt service associated with the loan is paid for by wastewater rates paid by users of the wastewater system, and is not paid for by General Fund taxes. The balance of $1,705,000 or such part thereof as necessary to complete said project is to be raised by applicable State, Federal or other Grant programs, from $620,000 in contributions and fees received from Dartmouth College and Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, and from undesignated fund balance and the Wastewater Treatment Plant Fund Capital Reserve as proposed in Article Fourteen. A two-thirds ballot vote is required.
The motion was seconded.
Selectman Christie spoke of the many educational sessions and hearings that were held on this topic. He reintroduced Pete Kulbacki, Director of Hanover's Public Works Department, and Ed Rushbrook, the lead engineering consultant on this project from Dufresne-Henry and now with Underwood Engineers. Mr. Christie explained that the major objective of the proposed project was to protect and preserve the Connecticut River, an objective reflected in the Wastewater Treatment Plant's Mission Statement. Mr. Christie recalled a time when a dip in the Connecticut River was less than enjoyable. He said the river had come a long way but Hanover must continue to do its part to keep it clean and safe for fishing and swimming.
Selectman Christie advised of an agreement that the Town of Hanover and City of Lebanon entered into in 1969 whereby Hanover was to accept wastewater generated from Route 10 in Lebanon. In 1988, the Hanover Selectboard further adopted a resolution permitting the Town to accept wastewater from the Gile Tract watershed area. This resolution carries with it a five-year notice period for termination should Hanover no longer want to receive wastewater from that area.
Selectman Christie said that the recommended plant upgrades would enable the Town to resolve its discharge violations and provide enough capacity to meet the Town's current obligations to Hanover and to Lebanon. The upgrades would also provide adequate time to determine the best longer-term solution for the plant and modify the 1969 agreement with the City of Lebanon. A longer-term study of additional plant upgrades and of the conjunction with the City of Lebanon, Dartmouth College and the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) will help in arriving at an optimal longer-term solution.
Selectman Christie explained that the Wastewater Treatment Plant had its own fund to which all capital, operating, and borrowing costs were charged. Those expenses were then paid for by users fees from those people connected to the sewer or from firms that transported septic waste to the plant. Mr. Christie said the average household would witness an approximate increase of $35 per year in wastewater rates. This increase would still keep Hanover's annual wastewater fees below that of the State average.
Selectman Christie stated that the plant was well below its designed hydraulic capacity (the amount of liquid that can be processed each day) but was near to, or exceeding, its biological or disinfectant capacity. This resulted from seasonal fluctuations and water conservation measures that have placed demands on the plant that are different from that which the plant's design specifications were programmed to handle. He said to a certain extent, a major reinvestment in the plant might be upon the Town independent of the growth and shift in demand. Mr. Christie said designing and operating a wastewater plant was a form of art, not just science. The inter-independence of the various systems was significant. There were no easy answers when trying to understand these plants but there was honest disagreement about what the real problems were with Hanover's plant and how to correct them. He said the Town was working very hard with the State to reach an agreement on the proposed plan.
Selectman Christie noted that the last major plant upgrade was done in 1989 at a cost of $7.8 million. Ninety-five percent of that upgrade was paid for with State and Federal funding, which suggests the plant use should be considered that of a regional facility.
Aside from plant upgrades and equipment replacements, Selectman Christie explained that the Town also needed to put in place a more sophisticated fee structure. The current rate structure was based roughly 50% on a base fee and 50% on volume flow. A new fee structure would be based on the quantity and quality of the wastewater each user generates. The Town would also work with its customers on a pre-treatment program to help reduce the burden on the plant.
Selectman Christie outlined the total project costs as follows:
$ 929,000 upgrades to the Ultra-Violet Disinfection System
He then explained how it would be paid for. Article Thirteen, if passed, would grant the Town permission to issue $3 million in bonds. The hope is not to have to bond the entire $3 million but rather to utilize funding available through the State Revolving Fund, which would carry a lower interest rate than the municipal bonds. Article Fourteen, if passed, would grant the Town permission to expend funds in the Wastewater Treatment Plant's Undesignated Fund Balance and Capital Reserve Fund. Dartmouth College and DHMC would also contribute significantly toward the upgrade. In fact, half of their contributions would offset the additional costs driven by the increased flow from DHMC. The other half of their contribution would be accepted as a general contribution to the program, to which the Town thanks them.
Selectman Christie said odor was another concern with the current plant. He added that the Selectboard were hoping and expecting that the upgrade to the aeration system would have a beneficial effect on this problem.
Selectman Christie said the longer term plan would include an additional study of the needs of the customers and the best way to meet those needs. The geography that the plant serves was based on gravity, not town lines. As such, one would expect that a regional solution would be cost effective to all involved. Mr. Christie pointed out that the solid waste landfill that Lebanon manages and makes available to Hanover, based on fair user fees, was an example of where a regional solution has worked well.
Summarizing briefly, Selectman Christie said the proposed $4.7 million upgrade would allow the Town to correct the E. coli violations and meet their commitments to existing customers. A new fee structure would be implemented, as would a pre-treatment program. The project would be paid for by contributions from Dartmouth College and DHMC, the Wastewater Treatment Plant's Undesignated Fund Balance and its Capital Reserve account, and State loans and/or bonding. The average user would experience a projected increase of $35 per year. A longer-term solution would be studied. Mr. Christie said the Selectmen were not prejudging the final answer but were allotting themselves enough time to come to the right answer while still meeting the needs of their current customers.
Moderator Black opened the floor to public comment.
Duncan Mackintosh, of 3 Pleasant Street, expressed concern for the unprecedented request of $5 million that was being made without a clear understanding of how it would be paid back. He suggested that the Town should be more proactive and consider refusing all septic generated from outside of Hanover immediately. Mr. Mackintosh said that the $620,000 from Dartmouth College was $4,085,000 short. He did not believe that the original inter-municipal contract between Hanover and Lebanon anticipated the growth Dartmouth College and Centerra have experienced. He said it was now the time to decide whether to subsidize the Lebanon sewer situation or charge Lebanon ratepayers a larger share so that their contributions will pay for this upgrade and Hanover ratepayers will not be impacted. He said more facts and figures were needed before Town Meeting should approve this $5 million request.
Bob Gorrish asked if Hanover's plant used chlorine or ozone, and if UV was cheaper. Moderator Black said Hanover did not use chlorine or ozone. Town Manager Griffin explained that chlorine and de-chlorination was used excessively throughout the United States, as was UV. Chlorine and de-chlorination tended to be more expensive to install due to the amount of space they require. She said Hanover's plant was constrained due to its small physical footprint and lack of land area to build out to.
David Minsk, of 24 Rayton Road, asked if consideration was given to seeking a direct contribution from the City of Lebanon for the sewage Hanover receives from the Route 10 area. Selectman Christie explained that over the next six to twelve months the Town would review its contractual obligations with Lebanon and renegotiate in terms of a ten-year solution based upon the facts and values that would be determined during the next study phase. Town Manager Griffin added that Lebanon officials have been informed that one of the renegotiation issues will be their capital contribution toward future upgrades to Hanover's plant. Mr. Minsk asked if notice were given, that in five years Hanover would no longer accept wastewater from Lebanon, would the Hanover plant be over designed. Ms. Griffin said it was clear that there would be more capacity if waste generated in Lebanon was eliminated but that gain would have to be measured against the increasing wastewater rates Hanover taxpayers would experience due to a reduction in ratepayers.
Moderator Black asked to keep the discussion focused on the bond and what plant upgrade was needed for Hanover, as nothing could be done at this point to eliminate waste from Lebanon.
Bill Harper, of 3 Crowley Terrace, asked how pre-industrial treatment would affect the overall capacity and asked of the costs of such a program. Town Manager Griffin explained that pre-industrial treatment was considered an excellent way to manage the waste stream by eliminating or reducing the contaminants that enter the waste stream before they hit the plant. She said the goal of an industrial pre-treatment program would be to work with the larger waste generators, including Dartmouth College, DHMC, Dartmouth Printing, manufacturing firms and restaurants that grind food, to address the complexity of their wastewater. Ms. Griffin said the cost to the Town would equate to the staff time required to oversee the implementation. The cost to comply would be borne by the waste generator.
Sharon Nordgren, of 23 Rope Ferry Road, asked of the consequences if this bond did not pass. Town Manager Griffin said if these articles failed, the Town would face stiff penalties from the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services for failure to replace the UV System. She added that it was staff's belief that the plant was compromised by more than just the UV System. Upgrades to the aeration system and the creation of a Selector's Zone would open up additional biological capacity and would buy time for the Town to further consider whether this facility should continue to be run as a regional wastewater facility or not.
There being no further discussion on Article Thirteen, Moderator Black opened the polls for paper ballot voting.
With Town Meeting approval, Moderator Black continued the meeting addressing Article Eighteen.
ARTICLE EIGHTEEN: To receive reports from the Selectmen, Town Clerk, Treasurer, Collector of Taxes and other Town Officers and to vote on any motion relating to these reports and to receive any special resolutions that may be appropriate and to vote thereon.
Selectman Walsh moved that the reports from the Selectmen, Town Clerk, Treasurer, Collector of Taxes and other Town Officers as printed in the 2002 Town Report be accepted, as well as any Special Resolutions.
The motion was seconded.
Moderator Black introduced Selectman Christie to read the following resolution:
Resolution for Phyllis Lemay
As the chief bookkeeper for the Town of Hanover, Phyllis Lemay was known widely for her attention to detail and her commitment to the Town and her co-workers. She was also known on the road as a die-hard basketball fan: her BOXOUT license plate proclaiming her appreciation for the fundamentals of the game (not to mention affording her an advantage when changing lanes).
Phyllis began her career at the Town in November of 1988 where her love of the game quickly translated into putting a full-court press on the duties of her position. Always punctual, always ready to be called off the bench to cover for a co-worker, Phyllis' many contributions to the Town will be missed.
Phyllis' compassion for others when in need, her love of her family, and her love of children were a welcomed presence in the office. Although Phyllis never had a particular fondness for the dark offices in the basement of Town Hall, she was able to make her office a little bit brighter by always believing that the best was around the corner.
To quote Ralph Waldo Emerson: "The reward of a thing well done, is to have done it." We thank Phyllis for a job well done and wish her the best in those things she has yet to do.
Moderator Black introduced Selectman Pierson to read the following resolution:
Resolution for Alan Fullington
In 1972, the Highway Budget was $472,290, the Town spent $46,000 for 4 dump trucks, Apollo 16 & 17 landed on the moon, ZOOM premiered on TV, Richard Nixon was re-elected President, Watergate occurred, the Dolphins won the super bowl, the Oakland A's won the world series, the Lakers won their first NBA title and Alan "Fully" Fullington was hired as an Equipment Operator.
To everyone, Alan was known as "Fully". To his co-workers, he was called either "Fully" or for some unknown reason "Bump". He was employed by the Town of Hanover for 31 years.
"Fully" ran the Drott (excavator) so well that many times while working it like a Swiss watch, he would have to remind the crew to be careful that he did not hit them. He was like a pianist and every move he made with his hands and feet controlled the motion of the machine.
You always knew when there was a fire or ambulance call because "Fully" was never without his pager. He was always ready to run in the case of a fire. In fact, when the recent fire broke out at the Hanover Police Department, "Fully" was the first man on the roof and ready to fight whatever came through, be it smoke or flames.
Toward the end of his days at Highway, "Fully" decided it was time to give up the excavator and take on the task of running the Town's newly purchased 10-wheeler/sander, which he ran until his retirement. School bus routes in the winter were his top priority… well, other than hunting season!!
"Fully" will be greatly missed around the Public
Works Department with all the construction knowledge and background
he brought to the Town. Fortunately, "Fully" doesn't
like to sit for long so, don't be surprised to see him in that
orange vest and driving that big yellow truck helping out the
Town when we are in a pinch. And, if you see "Fully"
in a black suit, driving a long, black car, watch out… he
may be coming for you in his capacity as part-time assistant for
the Rand-Wilson Funeral Home!
Moderator Black introduced Selectman Baschnagel to read the following resolution:
Resolution for Richard Hatch
Richard Hatch began his career with the Hanover Fire Department as a Junior Volunteer while he was attending Hanover High School. On February 14, 1974, he joined the ranks of the Hanover Fire Department as a full-time member, serving until his retirement on December 31, 2002.
In his formative years, Rick was known to cruise the Upper Valley in his "Olds 88" listening to the scanner and responding to any town that had a fire. Rick would show up to lend a hand if needed or to observe the scene in order to learn his craft.
Rick's passion for the fire service is evident by his membership and involvement in several organizations. At one point in his career, Rick was simultaneously a full-time Firefighter in Hanover; a volunteer Firefighter in Hartford; a Volunteer Assistant Chief in Norwich; and an instructor for the Vermont Fire Academy!
Rick has never strayed far from the Upper Valley. He married his wife Debbie, a native of Norwich, Vermont, and moved to Wilder, where they raised their two sons, Christopher and Jeremy.
Rick, as you transition out of the fire service and into retirement, we wish you well, not to mention many nights of uninterrupted sleep. Thank you, Rick, for serving the Town of Hanover so well for so many years.
Moderator Black introduced Selectman Walsh to read the following resolution:
Resolution for Christopher O'Connor
It was March, 1985 that Chris came back across the river, leaving his duties as a patrol officer in Windsor, Vermont where he spent the first 6 ½ years honing his career in law enforcement. He was coming back home to the Town he grew up in, the Town that educated him, and the Town that gave his military family a place to call home.
Chris was the son of a Proctor man, no, not a preacher, a proctor. His father was for years the head of security at Dartmouth College. Chris' nickname in school was "Brillo" for that full head of tightly wound, curly dark hair he wore. He lived the life of a "Townie" in a college town, so coming home to do police work gave him the edge. He knew every nook and cranny where kids would go to do things that kids normally do when they grow. Chris was a special gift.
Three short years after starting in Hanover, he rose to the rank of Patrol Sergeant. Five years later he moved into administration, still holding the rank of Sergeant. What was driving his career now was his decision back in 1986 to get into prosecution. As the department's prosecutor at the local District Court level, Chris was able to review and evaluate every officer's work product and thus became a guide and a mentor to many in the Department, passing on his experience in the courtroom and advising them as to how to apply that knowledge in the day-to-day life in the field. Even though not trained as a lawyer, his time in the courtroom made him a formidable opponent to those who had passed the bar.
All of this paid off with Chris' promotion to Captain in 1995. As second-in-command, he headed up the patrol division as well as continuing with his prosecution duties in court. He brought a levelheaded balanced approach to the position, cool and calm under pressure, and never losing his temper. Coming from a Navy family, he was the ballast of the department.
Mr. Walsh shared a personal story of his wedding day traffic problems that were solved by Chris O'Connor. He said even though Chris was a great prosecutor he had a wonderful personal touch as well.
Chris left the department at the end of 2002 to explore what life may have to offer outside of law enforcement. However, we all know where his heart lies and expect that he will not stray far. Chris, we thank you for your dedication, your talent, your expertise and your wonderful sense of humor. We wish you all the best in your next adventure, and may that little white ball always fly far, well clear of trees, sand traps and water.
Moderator Black introduced Selectman Connolly to read the following resolution:
Resolution for William Mathieu
In 1988 the Town of Hanover acquired two assets - a secondary Wastewater Treatment Facility and the services of William Mathieu. William, or as he likes to be called, Bill, was the superior of the two. Over the next 15 years, Bill spent thousands of hours maintaining plant equipment, including the infamous and sometimes quirky UV disinfection system (which may account for his great tan). Bill worked trouble shooting many problems while quietly and effectively maintaining plant equipment.
Bill was responsible for the maintenance program up until 1998 when he rose to the head of the Treatment Division. The treatment division hired a number of professional operators under Bill's tenure, allowing for the incorporation of new programs and a comprehensive review of the operation. During the same period, Bill was instrumental in incorporating the Hanover Water Works Company treatment system into the Treatment Division. This enabled the efficiency of directing technical personnel through one location and now serves to provide qualified back up for key personnel.
In 2001, Bill and staff recommended a comprehensive review of the Wastewater Treatment Facility's operation, maintenance and condition. Over the next two years, Bill quietly guided a study which has enabled the community to develop a detailed improvement plan to up-grade and expand the capacity of the facility.
Bill will be most missed for his quiet, unassuming management style and his thoughtful and effective approach to resolving difficult problems, while all the time maintaining his wonderful sense of humor. Bill, the Town of Hanover salutes you and wishes you all the best.
Moderator Black introduced Sue Young to present the Volunteer Service Award.
Ms. Young first announced that the Richard W. Black Community and Senior Center was nearing completion. It will be open for business in June. A grand opening ceremony and dedication will be held late summer or early fall. She thanked Town Meeting for their generous support of this project.
Volunteer Service Award for Jack Stinson
The gentleman we're honoring tonight has no idea that this award is coming his way. But that's typical of this man who has worked tirelessly over the years for the community without fanfare or any expectations of personal reward. In fact, he is so humble that his wife had to rent a limousine and fabricate a story about going out dancing so she could get him here tonight. Would you please all join me in welcoming to the front our Hanover Parks and Recreation Board of Directors Volunteer of the Year, Jack Stinson.
Jack Stinson grew up in Saugus, Massachusetts and moved to Hanover with his parents right before his senior year at Hanover High School. He graduated from Hanover High in 1977 and from Davidson Elkins College in 1981 with a degree in business. Many of you probably know Jack through his store on Allen Street where he often can be found behind the counter making sandwiches or tending the register. The Dartmouth students also know Jack well since he's the famous keg delivery man.
Like many children in this area, Jack learned to ski at an early age. When he was a young adult, a new form of skiing came onto the scene called freestyle ballet and Jack immediately took to it, becoming very proficient. He enjoyed this technically-challenging sport so much that he joined the Ford Sayre Council Board of Directors in 1983 and established the first freestyle ballet skiing program in the Upper Valley. Jack was not only the organizer but one of the primary teachers. The program immediately became very popular and successful. When the next innovative winter sport, snowboarding, hit the slopes in the mid-80‚s, Jack quickly became a devoutee and was instrumental in establishing the first Ford Sayre snowboard program, again serving as both organizer and instructor. Through these two programs which operated at both the Dartmouth Skiway and Whaleback, Jack opened the door of winter recreation to hundreds of children in the Upper Valley, not just Hanover youth. After 15 years on the Ford Sayre Council Board of Directors, Jack decided to focus his energies in other areas and stepped off the Board in 1999.
Actually, Jack was already involved in another community organization when he left Ford Sayre. Four years earlier, in 1995, Jack joined the Hanover Parks and Recreation Board of Directors and served admirably until just last year when he retired to devote more time to his business. During his tenure on the Board, Jack provided a quiet yet unique perspective on recreation which was much appreciated. He championed the cause of another sport that was just coming into its own, skateboarding, and willingly took on the challenge of developing a skateboard park in Hanover. Jack spent numerous hours talking to the skateboarders, their parents, business people and neighbors trying to resolve the many issues that surround a park of this kind. It wasn't easy but eventually a small park was created behind the Richmond School primarily due to Jack's efforts.
Jack's other contribution to the community is just as unique as the sports he has chosen to pursue. Whenever there has been a Recreation department or Community event that requires a concession stand, Jack has willingly step forward. He has donated the resources of his store and his staff for countless number of middle school dances, basketball tournaments, hockey parties, Memorial Day celebrations and Occom Pond Parties. He himself spends many hours preparing and manning the stand. And he has done all of this for zero profit. Considering that the concession stand organizer is usually the first one at the event site and the last one to leave, this is a large, unheralded contribution.
In addition to all the above, Jack has also found time on occasion to be the parent coordinator for his son Ryerson's youth hockey team and has worked with Glynn Reinders for four years on a golf tournament for the High School students.
As I said at the beginning of this citation, Jack does not think about being in the limelight. In fact, he's actually pretty shy. Well, tonight it's my honor to shine the light on his many wonderful contributions and present him with the Hanover Parks and Recreation Board of Directors Volunteer of the Year Award. Congratulations, Jack.
Mr. Stinson humbly accepted his award stating, "Everyone helps out."
Moderator Black introduced Selectman Walsh to present tributes to Fred Crory and Lou Bressett.
Selectman Walsh said over the past year Hanover lost two of its exemplary citizens, Fred Crory and Lou Bressett. Mr. Crory acted as an Assistant Moderator for years and as a Fence Viewer from 1988 to January 2003. He was a continuing and vocal positive participant at Town Meetings, raising questions and making sure that the Selectboard had thought things through well. He expressed his thoughts well and moved democracy forward with many letters to the editor. We miss Fred.
Lou Bressett also passed away this year. Lou was the Mayor, "Mr. Hanover", the person who taught us all how to be citizens. The list of things Lou did for Hanover included leading the merger of the precinct and Etna, being Chairman of the Hanover Improvement Society for many years, being the person who always made you feel good when you saw him, etc. Lou will also be missed.
Selectman Walsh said Hanover had been blessed over the years and remains blessed with its citizens. These were two exemplary citizens who will be missed sorely.
Moderator Black introduced Selectmen Connolly to speak about Hanover's Master Plan.
Selectman Connolly spoke of the Planning Board's efforts to produce a revised Master Plan. She advised of two Master Plan Workshops the Planning Board would host in seeking public input on the document. The first was scheduled for Tuesday, June 17, 2003 in the Music Room of the Bernice A. Ray School at 7:30 pm. The second was scheduled for Tuesday, June 24, 2003 in Trumbull Hall in Etna also at 7:30 pm. Ms. Connolly encouraged all those interested in the Master Plan to attend and share their thoughts.
With Town Meeting approval, Moderator Black continued the meeting addressing Article Fourteen.
ARTICLE FOURTEEN: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of $1,092,392 of a total expected cost of $4,705,000 for the purpose of preliminary design, pilot work, preparing plans and specifications, construction services, and for the construction of wastewater improvements which includes a series of equipment upgrades designed to expand the biological treatment capacity of the facility and replacement of aging equipment, and to authorize funding of this amount by withdrawal of $206,000 from the Wastewater Treatment Plant Fund undesignated fund balance (surplus) as of June 30, 2003, and $886,392 from the Wastewater Treatment Plant Fund Capital Reserve. Funding available from the undesignated fund balance derives from the cumulative unexpended balance available from each annual operating budget for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Fund. The proposed withdrawal would still result in a remaining undesignated fund balance equal to 10% of the proposed operating budget for the Fund.
Selectman Christie moved that the Town vote to raise and appropriate the sum of $1,092,392 of a total expected cost of $4,705,000 for the purpose of preliminary design, pilot work, preparing plans and specifications, construction services, and for the construction of wastewater improvements which includes a series of equipment upgrades designed to expand the biological treatment capacity of the facility and replacement of aging equipment, and to authorize funding of this amount by withdrawal of $206,000 from the Wastewater Treatment Plant Fund undesignated fund balance (surplus) as of June 30, 2003, and $886,392 from the Wastewater Treatment Plant Fund Capital Reserve. Funding available from the undesignated fund balance derives from the cumulative unexpended balance available from each annual operating budget for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Fund. The proposed withdrawal would still result in a remaining undesignated fund balance equal to 10% of the proposed operating budget for the Fund.
The motion was seconded.
Selectman Christie explained that this funding would come from the Wastewater Treatment Plant's Undesignated Fund Balance and Capital Reserve. He said should Article Thirteen fail, these funds would still be available to the Town and would most likely be used to upgrade the UV System in hopes to eliminate the E. coli violations.
Tim Pillsbury, of 9 Woodmore Road, asked what the "proposed
operating budget of the Fund" was. Town Manager Griffin
replied that the total proposed budget for the Wastewater Treatment
Plant Fund was $5,657,341. Of that, $4.7 million reflected the
issues presently before Town Meeting. The net operating budget
for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Fund was a little over $1.1
million.
Moderator Black asked for Town Meeting's permission to present Articles Fifteen, Sixteen and Seventeen and then call the vote for all three Articles. Town Meeting consented.
ARTICLE FIFTEEN: To see if the Town will vote to modify the elderly exemption from property tax in the Town of Hanover, based on assessed value, for qualified taxpayers, to be as follows: for a person 65 years of age up to 75 years, $65,000; for a person 75 years of age up to 80 years, $95,000; for a person 80 years of age or older, $130,000. To qualify, the person must have been a New Hampshire resident for at least 5 years, own the real estate individually or jointly, or if the real estate is owned by such person's spouse, they must have been married for at least 5 years. In addition, the taxpayer must have a net income of not more than $27,190 or, if married, a combined net income of less than $37,850; and own net assets not in excess of $65,000 excluding the value of the person's residence. This article represents a recommended modification of the current exemption for the elderly and would be effective April 1, 2003 for the 2003 tax year. A ballot vote is required.
Selectman Connolly said shall we modify the elderly exemption from property tax in the Town of Hanover, based on assessed value, for qualified taxpayers, to be as follows: for a person 65 years of age up to 75 years, $65,000; for a person 75 years of age up to 80 years, $95,000; for a person 80 years of age or older, $130,000. To qualify, the person must have been a New Hampshire resident for at least 5 years, own the real estate individually or jointly, or if the real estate is owned by such person's spouse, they must have been married for at least 5 years. In addition, the taxpayer must have a net income of not more than $27,190 or, if married, a combined net income of less than $37,850; and own net assets not in excess of $65,000 excluding the value of the person's residence. This article represents a recommended modification of the current exemption for the elderly and would be effective April 1, 2003 for the 2003 tax year. A ballot vote is required.
The motion was seconded.
There being no discussion, Moderator Black continued to Article Sixteen.
ARTICLE SIXTEEN: Shall we modify the exemption for the disabled?
The exemption, based on assessed value, for qualified taxpayers
shall be $130,000. To qualify, the person must have been a New
Hampshire resident for at least 5 years and own and occupy the
real estate individually or jointly, or if the real estate is
owned by a spouse, they must have been married for at least 5
years. In addition, the taxpayer must have a net income of not
more than $19,600 or, if married, a combined net income of not
more than $24,500; and own net assets not in excess of $65,000
excluding the value of the person's residence. This article represents
a recommended modification of the current exemption for the disabled
and would be effective April 1, 2003 for the 2003 tax year. A
ballot vote is required.
The motion was seconded.
There being no discussion, Moderator Black continued to Article Seventeen.
ARTICLE SEVENTEEN: Shall we adopt the provisions of RSA 72:37 for the exemption for the blind from the assessed value of residential real estate for property tax purposes? This statute provides that every inhabitant who is legally blind shall be exempt each year, for property tax purposes, from the assessed value on a residence to the value of $25,000. This article represents a recommended modification of the current exemption for the blind and would be effective April 1, 2003 for the 2003 tax year. A ballot vote is required.
Selectman Connolly moved that the Town adopt the provisions of RSA 72:37 for the exemption for the blind from the assessed value of residential real estate for property tax purposes. This statute provides that every inhabitant who is legally blind shall be exempt each year, for property tax purposes, from the assessed value on a residence to the value of $25,000. This article represents a recommended modification of the current exemption for the blind and would be effective April 1, 2003 for the 2003 tax year. A ballot vote is required.
The motion was seconded.
There being no discussion, Moderator Black opened the polls for voting on Articles Fifteen, Sixteen and Seventeen.
ARTICLE NINETEEN: To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to convey a portion of the town property known as the Gile Tract, located off Route 120 (Map 21, Lot 2), which portion shall not exceed 25 acres, located in the northeasterly and easterly portions of said parcel, that is, all or part of a tract shown as "25 acre proposed PRD tract" on a map entitled "Gile Tract, Maximum Extent of Proposed Planned Residential Development" prepared by the Office of Robert A. White, dated March 14, 2003, which is available for inspection at the Hanover Town Offices. The property is to be conveyed to either a public or private non-profit entity for the purpose of facilitating the construction and operation of housing affordable primarily to persons or households of low and moderate incomes, on such terms and conditions as determined by the Selectmen as appropriate to accomplish that goal.
Selectman Walsh moved that the Town vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to convey a portion of the town property known as the Gile Tract, located off Route 120 (Map 21, Lot 2), which portion shall not exceed 25 acres, located in the northeasterly and easterly portions of said parcel, that is, all or part of a tract shown as "25 acre proposed PRD tract" on a map entitled "Gile Tract, Maximum Extent of Proposed Planned Residential Development" prepared by the Office of Robert A. White, dated March 14, 2003, which is available for inspection at the Hanover Town Offices. The property is to be conveyed to either a public or private non-profit entity for the purpose of facilitating the construction and operation of housing affordable primarily to persons or households of low and moderate incomes, on such terms and conditions as determined by the Selectmen as appropriate to accomplish that goal.
The motion was seconded.
Selectman Walsh asked to recognize the work of the Affordable Housing Commission, who put this proposal together in just under two years. He said in working with appropriate outside consultants and with people from the community the Commission developed a plan that was physically responsible, attractive, and financially sound. He also credited the Commission for choosing the Twin Pines Housing Trust to provide the implementation organization.
Ginny Rolett, of 4 Balch Hill Lane, spoke of a past proposal to build recreational fields on the Gile Tract that was turned down due to the Tract's history of having been a landfill. She asked where the affordable housing project would be located in relation to the proposed recreational fields. Selectman Walsh said the Tract was roughly 65 acres in size. This project would be located to the north and east of the former stump dump.
Tim Pillsbury, of 9 Woodmore Road, expressed concern for an existing tree line located on the south side of the proposed development. He mentioned the open space requirement that 65% of the 25-acre proposed development would have to be designated as open space. He asked if "open space" meant no trees or no buildings. Selectman Walsh said he did not know the details of the plan but was sure that the intent was not to have the development fully visible from Route 120.
Meg Carleton, of 9 Hayfield Road, asked if the market rate houses would include in their costs the donation of land, how the Town could be assured that this would be a sustainable project, what the impacts would be to Town services, and what safeguards would there be to keep this from becoming a taxpayers supported project. Selectman Walsh explained that the market rate would be determined by a willing buyer and seller at the time the houses were sold. He would expect that the market rate houses would reflect the value of the land. He said the Town would have covenants to make sure the affordable housing created would remain permanently affordable. The Planning Board would heavily weigh the impacts to Town services, as this project would require their review and approval prior to construction. Personally speaking, Mr. Walsh said the fact that the State of New Hampshire funds education and puts the Town in a place where we are talking about affordable housing and what affect it will have on our own pocket books because real estate taxes support our schools stinks. Moderator Black added that the only tax impact, from what she has seen thus far and aside from the loss of 65 acres, would be that each of these 65 units would pay property taxes to the Town of Hanover.
Bob Strauss, Chair of the Affordable Housing Commission, reported that the Commission estimated that this project would increase the student population by 25, of which one would require special needs. He further explained that all of the land surrounding each of the buildings would be common land. The market rate houses would not have large lots designated to them individually that would be included in the market rate value. This allows for lower priced homes. Mr. Strauss said the median price for houses in Hanover was currently $366,000. These market rate homes would be sold at a maximum price of $280,000.
Margaret Fanning, of 252 Dogford Road, spoke in support of the affordable housing project but asked how college students would be deterred from renting or purchasing these units. Mr. Strauss explained that government regulations associated with the government funding would prohibit the sale or rent of these units to students. It was noted that the definition of "students" was a gray area that would have to be worked out.
Fred Fellows, of 47 Thompson Road, believed that Dr. Gile had
given this land to the people in the community for use at their
discretion. He questioned if Hanover legally owned this parcel
of a larger Gile Tract and further if the Town could legally sell
it. Town Manager Griffin said the deed covenants associated with
the gift of this land to the Town were reviewed carefully. There
were no restrictions that would prohibit what was being recommended.
Ms. Griffin added that the Affordable Housing Commission was
proposing a Planned Residential Development, which would require
a lot of open space for public use.
Rebecca Heller, a Dartmouth Student, spoke in support of this article. She advised Town Meeting of one individual's struggle to provide housing for herself and her family. Ms. Heller said last year alone 800 people were turned away from emergency housing. She encouraged Town Meeting to think about the individuals this would serve, not just the numbers.
Steve Crory, 40 Rip Road, spoke in support of this article but expressed concern for the proposed access to this development. He suggested access should be provided from the hospital road or should intersect Route 120 near Trumbull Nelson's location. Mr. Crory further stated that the taxpayers should not have to pay for signalization at the Buck Road/Route 120 intersection.
Kari Asmus, of 2 Sausville Road, read from a written statement about preserving Hanover's diversity, as it contributes to the cultural wealth of the community. She asked Town Meeting to consider the burden this affordable housing development would place on low and moderate-income families in Hanover. She felt that the numbers provided in the informational brochure on median property tax increases and school impacts were incorrect as they were based on unrealistic assumptions. She expressed concern that this development was being designed for local people yet it included no provisions to give Hanover residents preference for these units. She suggested the Article should be brought back the following year with a better understanding of the numbers so that they may be weighed against other expenses the Town will be facing including a bond for the schools, the wastewater plant improvements, wastewater rate increases, etc.
Kim Perez, of 61 Trescott Road and member of the Affordable Housing Commission, explained that the goal for Town Meeting was to approve a general project, not to approve the specific details that have been developed thus far. She noted that the Commission met on the third Thursday of every month and encouraged those interested to attend and participate in their meetings as this project moves forward. She spoke of the regional demand for these units and suggested Hanover, as a community, might be better equipped to bear the burden of providing affordable units than some of the neighboring communities. Ms. Perez suggested that delaying one year would not produce much additional information. She noted that many non-profit organizations were not willing to provide funding upfront until a project was approved at a decent level.
Murray Washburn, of 231 Dogford Road, asked of the protocol for ensuring continued affordability. Bob Strauss said the low and moderate-income housing would be covered by resale covenants. The units would be price controlled whereby the owner would only be able to receive a cost of living increase and credit for any improvements the owner made during his/her ownership. Selectman Walsh agreed a heart of the issue would be to ensure that the financial design of the project creates affordable housing in perpetuity. He read from the last sentence of the Article, "such terms and conditions as determined by the Selectmen as appropriate to accomplish that goal" and stated that the Selectmen wanted to ensure that this meets affordability.
Robin Carpenter, of 28 Thompson Road, spoke in opposition to the Article. He argued that Town Meeting was not provided sufficient information from which they could base their votes on; the value of the land was passed off as costless, the effects on the schools and road congestion was questionable. He argued that the percentage of Hanover teachers and policemen living in Hanover were equal to that of surrounding communities. He said the likelihood of single parent households inhabiting these units might increase the school impacts. He suggested that the relationship of special education students among affordable housing tenants should be explored and further stated that this development would have some effect on the academic achievement in the Hanover school system; a concept that was not shared by many at Town Meeting. In closing, Mr. Carpenter noted that Hanover was facing very substantial investment to which this project should not be added to the mix.
Bill Harper, of 3 Crowley Terrace, asked to move the question. Moderator Black asked for a show of hands on Mr. Harper's motion to move the question. The motion PASSED and discussion on this Article was CLOSED.
Moderator Black announced the results of Article Thirteen. A total of 358 votes were cast. A two-thirds vote of 239 was needed for the Article to pass. There were 337 yes votes and 21 no votes. Article Thirteen PASSED.
There being no further discussion, a vote was taken by show of hands on Selectman Walsh's motion. The motion PASSED and Article Nineteen was ADOPTED.
Moderator Black announced the closing of the polls for Articles Fifteen, Sixteen and Seventeen.
ARTICLE TWENTY: To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to accept a .30 acre parcel of land located at 15 East South Street (Map 34, Lot 61), currently owned by the Howe Library Corporation. The parcel would then be merged with the adjoining Town-owned parcel located at 13 East South Street (Map 34, Lot 62), upon which the current Howe Library resides. Once the parcels are combined, the property would be available for future expansion of the Howe Library.
Selectman Walsh explained that Town Meeting was responsible for making the decisions to buy, sell or receive land.
Selectman Walsh moved that the Town vote to authorize the Board
of Selectmen to accept a .30 acre parcel of land located at 15
East South Street (Map 34, Lot 61), currently owned by the Howe
Library Corporation. The parcel would then be merged with the
adjoining Town-owned parcel located at 13 East South Street (Map
34, Lot 62), upon which the current Howe Library resides. Once
the parcels are combined, the property would be available for
future expansion of the Howe Library.
There being no further discussion, a voice vote was taken on Selectman Walsh's motion. The motion PASSED and Article Twenty was ADOPTED.
ARTICLE TWENTY-ONE: To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to adopt a Rental Housing Ordinance, which would establish rental housing standards and provide for the registration and inspection of rental properties in Hanover.
Selectman Connolly moved that the Town vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to adopt a Rental Housing Ordinance, which would establish rental housing standards and provide for the registration and inspection of rental properties in Hanover.
The motion was seconded.
Selectman Connolly explained that there were approximately 2,032 housing units in Hanover, which ranged from studio apartments to 80-room houses. Of these units, 963 were rental units. Of the rental units, approximately 600 were located within multifamily buildings owned by absentee landlords.
Selectman Connolly explained that public officials familiar with conditions of a large number of rental housing units in Hanover including the Health Officer, Building Inspector, Zoning Administrator, Fire Chief and Police Chief have all expressed the need for basic health and safety regulations for this housing. Unsanitary and even life threatening conditions at a number of Hanover rental units have been found by these officials. Stories of similar conditions have been published over the last few years in local newspapers. Ms. Connolly noted that short term rentals, of less than 90 days in any six month period, and rooms rented to roomers, home healthcare providers and caretakers would be exempt from the proposed ordinance.
Ms. Connolly said this ordinance would enable the Town to register and inspect rental housing units to avoid conditions which are listed in RSA 48-A:14 as things not to have happen on the premises of rental housing such as: insect infestation, defective internal plumbing, exposed wires, consistent roof or wall leaks, etc. The program would pay for itself via the registration and inspection fees assessed, which would equate to .2 to .4 of 1% of the landlords rental receipts.
Bob Keene, of 1 Woods End Road, asked if building exteriors would be included in the inspection process. Selectman Connolly said yes, the general condition of the exterior including refuse would be part of the inspection.
Chris Brown, of 5 Mink Drive, asked what would be the basis behind an inspection and how inspections would be scheduled. Selectman Connolly said the proposed ordinance suggests conducting an annual inspection of every rental unit. Presumably those inspections would be made by appointment with the landlord.
Elizabeth Crory, of 40 Rip Road, asked what this ordinance would do that the State Statute does not already provide for. Town Manager Griffin this would enact for the Town of Hanover an ordinance, subject to a public hearing, a comprehensive rental housing code that would specifically detail the required maintenance of rental housing. She said it had been Town staff's experience that the State Statute was relatively limited in terms of what aid can be provided to students. The goal would be to enhance what is currently available by Statute through the adoption of this code.
Ms. Crory expressed concern for the financial impact this will have on rental costs. She asked if existing rental units would be grandfathered. Town Manager Griffin agreed that the costs associated with this ordinance could be passed on to tenants. Those would include the annual inspection fee, which will range from $50 to $100 per year, and the costs to those landlords who have not been properly maintaining their units to bring them up to code. Ms. Griffin further explained that no one would be grandfathered; everyone who owned and leased rental units would be subject to the ordinance. She reiterated that the only issue before Town Meeting was to authorize the Selectmen to consider the adoption of such ordinance; public hearings would be held to specifically address the body of the ordinance that would be proposed.
Harte Crow, of 24 Partridge Road, asked how maintenance work would be addressed, if tenants would have to relocate, and if fines would be assessed. Ryan Borkowski, the Building Inspector, said the ordinance would be a minimum health code, based mainly on RSA 48A, Housing Standards for the State of New Hampshire. The Housing Inspector would have to become a deputized health officer. The goal is to expedite enforcement and response time of complaints submitted by establishing this position. The Housing Inspector would enforce the new housing standards and advise the appropriate parties of any violations found.
Mr. Crow assumed that these standards would apply to the proposed affordable housing units and that this would only add to the cost of those units. Bob Strauss explained that the government would control the rent amounts of the affordable housing units; they would not be affected by this ordinance.
Steve Crory, of 40 Rip Road, asked if this would be town wide or if there would be any educational or recreational exemptions. Selectman Connolly said the regulations would be town wide.
Ruth Lappin, of 603 Hanover Center Road, asked how this would apply to short-term rentals. Selectman Connolly reiterated that short-term rentals of less than 90 days in any six-month period would be exempt from the proposed ordinance.
Evelyn Spiegel, of 15 Barrymore Road, felt that inspecting rental units once a year would be an invasion of privacy. She thought there had to be a better solution. Selectman Connolly agreed it was intrusive but added that unfortunately it had become necessary.
Rich Howarth, of 2 Sausville Road, asked why Town Meeting was being asked to transfer this legislative power to the Selectboard without having an ordinance to agree and vote upon. Selectman Connolly said an exact ordinance was not yet developed. This Article would provide the power to enact one. Moderator Black added that ordinances were passed by the Selectboard, not Town Meeting.
Kari Asmus, of 2 Sausville Road, asked if Town Meeting was able to give the Selectmen this authority. Walter Mitchell, the Town attorney, said depending on what part of the Statue is considered, different conclusions could be reached with respect to which body, Town Meeting or the Board of Selectmen, has the authority to do this. Rather than dispute that matter, this Article is proposing that Town Meeting delegate that authority to the Board of Selectmen.
Margaret Bragg, of 108 Greensboro Road, asked if neighboring communities had a similar ordinance and if so, how was it working. Selectman Connolly could not speak to a similar ordinance in surrounding towns but said other college towns had similar ordinances that were successful.
Hillary Pridgen, of 40 Etna Road, said this would add a significant layer of administration. She said the issue should be facilitating the handling of complaints, not burdening every responsible landlord and their tenants.
Jean Hennessey asked if this authority was given could it later be rescinded. Attorney Mitchell said probably. Moderator Black said yes, by petitioned Warrant Article or by the Board of Selectmen themselves.
There being no further discussion, a vote was taken by show of hands on Selectman Connolly's motion. For clarity, a second vote by show of hands was taken. The motion PASSED and Article Twenty-One was ADOPTED.
ARTICLE TWENTY-TWO: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $97,550 for deposit in the Land and Capital Improvements Fund, and to authorize funding of this amount by transfer from the Land Use Change Tax Reserve, with no funds being raised by taxation. The amount appropriated is the equivalent of 50% of the total collected in the Land Use Change Tax Reserve in the fiscal year 2001-2002. Funding deposited into the Land and Capital Improvements Fund derives from 50% of the land use change tax proceeds, paid by property owners when they take land out of current use.
Selectman Baschnagel moved that the Town vote to raise and
appropriate $97,550 for deposit in the Land and Capital Improvements
Fund, and to authorize funding of this amount by transfer from
the Land Use Change Tax Reserve, with no funds being raised by
taxation. The amount appropriated is the equivalent of 50% of
the total collected in the Land Use Change Tax Reserve in the
fiscal year 2001-2002. Funding deposited into the Land and Capital
Improvements Fund derives from 50% of the land use change tax
proceeds, paid by property owners when they take land out of current
use.
Selectman Baschnagel explained that a similar article was proposed every year for this transfer of funds. He opened the floor to questions or comments.
There being no further discussion, a vote was taken by show of hands on Selectman Baschnagel's motion. The motion PASSED and Article Twenty-Two was ADOPTED.
ARTICLE TWENTY-THREE: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $97,550 for deposit in the Conservation Fund, and to authorize funding of this amount by transfer from the Land Use Change Tax Reserve, with no funds being raised by taxation. The amount appropriated is the equivalent of 50% of the total amount collected in the Land Use Change Tax Reserve in the fiscal year 2001-2002. Funding deposited into the Conservation Fund derives from 50% of the land use change tax proceeds, paid by property owners when they take land out of current use.
Selectman Baschnagel moved that the Town vote to raise and appropriate $97,550 for deposit in the Conservation Fund, and to authorize funding of this amount by transfer from the Land Use Change Tax Reserve, with no funds being raised by taxation. The amount appropriated is the equivalent of 50% of the total amount collected in the Land Use Change Tax Reserve in the fiscal year 2001-2002. Funding deposited into the Conservation Fund derives from 50% of the land use change tax proceeds, paid by property owners when they take land out of current use.
The motion was seconded.
Selectman Baschnagel explained that a similar article was proposed every year for this transfer of funds. He opened the floor to questions or comments.
Bernie Waugh, of 16 Pinneo Hill Road, asked how the amounts in the Land Use Change Tax had varied over the past five or six years. Town Manager Griffin said the revenue figures ranged from 30,000 to 190,000. It was very unpredictable.
There being no further discussion, a vote was taken by show of hands on Selectman Baschnagel's motion. The motion PASSED and Article Twenty-Three was ADOPTED.
ARTICLE TWENTY-FOUR: To see if the Town will vote to approve the expenditure of a sum not to exceed $80,000 for a fee simple purchase of, or acquisition of a conservation easement restricting development of, a parcel of land located on Piper's Lane (Map 12, Lot 7), and to fund this expenditure by authorizing the withdrawal of that sum from the Conservation Fund. Funding deposited into the Conservation Fund derives from 50% of the land use change tax proceeds, paid by property owners when they take land out of current use.
Selectman Baschnagel moved that the Town vote to approve the expenditure of a sum not to exceed $80,000 for a fee simple purchase of, or acquisition of a conservation easement restricting development of, a parcel of land located on Piper's Lane (Map 12, Lot 7), and to fund this expenditure by authorizing the withdrawal of that sum from the Conservation Fund. Funding deposited into the Conservation Fund derives from 50% of the land use change tax proceeds, paid by property owners when they take land out of current use.
The motion was seconded.
There being no discussion on this Article, a vote was taken by show of hands on Selectman Baschnagel's motion. The motion PASSED and Article Twenty-Four was ADOPTED.
ARTICLE TWENTY-FIVE: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $26,200 for the construction of parking to serve the proposed baseball field to be located on Grasse Road, adjacent to the Water Company headquarters, and to authorize funding this amount by withdrawal from the Land and Capital Improvements Fund. Funding available from the Land and Capital Improvements Fund derives from 50% of the land use change tax proceeds paid by property owners when they take land out of current use. Funding for construction of the baseball field was approved in the FY 2002-2003 budget.
Selectman Pierson moved that the Town vote to raise and appropriate $26,200 for the construction of parking to serve the proposed baseball field to be located on Grasse Road, adjacent to the Water Company headquarters, and to authorize funding this amount by withdrawal from the Land and Capital Improvements Fund. Funding available from the Land and Capital Improvements Fund derives from 50% of the land use change tax proceeds paid by property owners when they take land out of current use. Funding for construction of the baseball field was approved in the FY 2002-2003 budget.
The motion was seconded.
Bob Morris, of 9 King Road, said he thought this 50% was used up previously. Moderator Black explained that the expenditure noted in the last Article was associated with the Conservation Fund, this expenditure would be coming from the Land and Capital Improvements Fund. She said neither account had a zero balance yet.
Kari Asmus, of 2 Sausville Road, asked of the actual balance to the Land and Capital Improvement Fund taking into account all of the money that has been earmarked for expenditures and including the deposit of $13,000 from last year. Betsy McClain, Director of Administrative Services, said the remaining balance, net of this $26,200 appropriation, would be $158,000.
Tim Pillsbury, 9 Woodmore Road, asked where the ball field would be located on Grasse Road relative to the Water Works facility. Selectman Pierson said it would be positioned in front and to the left of the building, toward the reservoir. Fill and grading would have to be done to address the sloping of that area.
Mr. Pillsbury asked about the traffic impact to Grasse Road from this new ball field. Town Manager Griffin agreed that this road was a challenge to maintain due to the increased traffic from the MacDonald Drive subdivision and the Grasse Road Phase II construction. Adding a new middle school to this area would also increase the traffic volume on this road. She said the more use it gets the more vigilant the Town will have to be in taking care of it.
There being no further discussion, a vote was taken by show of hands on Selectman Pierson's motion. The motion PASSED and Article Twenty-Five was ADOPTED.
ARTICLE TWENTY-SIX: To see if the Town will vote to establish a Capital Reserve Fund under the provisions of RSA 35:1, for the purpose of replacing Dispatch equipment and for enhancements to the Dispatch Center, and to raise and appropriate the sum of $10,000 for deposit into this fund.
Selectman Christie moved that the Town vote to establish a Capital Reserve Fund under the provisions of RSA 35:1, for the purpose of replacing Dispatch equipment and for enhancements to the Dispatch Center, and to raise and appropriate the sum of $10,000 for deposit into this fund.
The motion was seconded.
There being no discussion on this Article, a vote was taken by show of hands on Selectman Christie's motion. The motion PASSED and Article Twenty-Six was ADOPTED.
ARTICLE TWENTY-SEVEN: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $50,000 for deposit into the Parking Capital Reserve Fund for the purposes for which such fund was established, and to fund this appropriation by authorizing the withdrawal of the $50,000 sum from the undesignated fund balance (surplus) of the Parking Fund as of June 30, 2003. These monies are currently budgeted in the FY 2002-2003 Parking Fund budget.
Selectman Baschnagel noted that Articles Twenty-Seven and Twenty-Eight were very similar. They differed only in the fact that the $50,000 discussed in Article Twenty-Seven was something that was set-aside in the current year's budget for capital improvements that were not needed. That funding would now be moved into a reserve fund. Article Twenty-Eight would take $50,000 from the Undesignated Fund Balance (surplus) in the current Parking Fund and put that money into a Capital Reserve Fund.
Selectman Baschnagel moved that the Town vote to raise and appropriate $50,000 for deposit into the Parking Capital Reserve Fund for the purposes for which such fund was established, and to fund this appropriation by authorizing the withdrawal of the $50,000 sum from the undesignated fund balance (surplus) of the Parking Fund as of June 30, 2003. These monies are currently budgeted in the FY 2002-2003 Parking Fund budget.
The motion was seconded.
Kim Perez, of 61 Trescott Road, asked if funding could be made available from the Parking Capital Reserve to pay for alternative means of transportation throughout Town, such as Advanced Transit. Selectman Baschnagel said the Parking Fund currently provided a Town subsidy for Advanced Transit.
There being no further discussion, a vote was taken by show of hands on Selectman Baschnagel's motion. The motion PASSED and Article Twenty-Seven was ADOPTED.
ARTICLE TWENTY-EIGHT: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $150,000 for deposit into the Parking Capital Reserve Fund, and to authorize funding this item by withdrawal from the undesignated fund balance (surplus) of the Parking Fund as of June 30, 2003. Funding available from the undesignated fund balance in the Parking Fund derives from the cumulative unexpended balance available from each annual operating budget for the Parking Fund. The proposed withdrawal would still result in a remaining undesignated fund balance equal to 9.2% of the proposed operating budget for the Parking Fund, which is considered a prudent financial reserve.
Selectman Baschnagel moved that the Town vote to raise and appropriate $150,000 for deposit into the Parking Capital Reserve Fund, and to authorize funding this item by withdrawal from the undesignated fund balance (surplus) of the Parking Fund as of June 30, 2003. Funding available from the undesignated fund balance in the Parking Fund derives from the cumulative unexpended balance available from each annual operating budget for the Parking Fund. The proposed withdrawal would still result in a remaining undesignated fund balance equal to 9.2% of the proposed operating budget for the Parking Fund, which is considered a prudent financial reserve.
The motion was seconded.
Bernie Waugh, of 16 Pinneo Hill Road, asked if there was any relationship between the zoning amendment that calls for the selling of parking credits and the Parking Fund. Selectman Baschnagel said there was no relation. At this time, there was not a program in place to actually sell parking credits.
There being no further discussion, a vote was taken by show of hands on Selectman Baschnagel's motion. The motion PASSED and Article Twenty-Eight was ADOPTED.
Moderator Black announced the voting results of Articles Fifteen, Sixteen and Seventeen as follows:
ARTICLE FIFTEEN: YES: 328 NO: 4 ARTICLE PASSED
ARTICLE TWENTY-NINE: To see if the Town will raise and appropriate $91,140 for the reconstruction of North College Street from Maynard Street north to the Medical School entrance driveway and to authorize funding this item by withdrawal from the North College Street Reconstruction Capital Reserve Fund.
Selectman Pierson moved that the Town vote to raise and appropriate
$91,140 for the reconstruction of North College Street from Maynard
Street north to the Medical School entrance driveway and to authorize
funding this item by withdrawal from the North College Street
Reconstruction Capital Reserve Fund.
Selectman Pierson explained that these funds were set aside last year at Town Meeting for the purpose of reconstructing North College Street. The Town was now prepared to actually conduct the reconstruction work from Maynard Street north.
There being no further discussion, a vote was taken by show of hands on Selectman Pierson's motion. The motion PASSED and Article Twenty-Nine was ADOPTED.
ARTICLE THIRTY: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $65,535 for deposit in the Municipal Transportation Improvement Fund, and to authorize funding of this amount by transfer from the Transportation Improvement Fee Reserve, with no funds being raised by taxation. This Municipal Transportation Improvement Fund was established by Town Meeting in 2000, authorizing the assessment of a $5.00 surcharge for each motor vehicle registered in the Town of Hanover pursuant to RSA 261:153 VI. Since that time and through fiscal year 2001-2002, $65,535 in surcharge fees has been collected and should be deposited in the Fund.
Selectman Pierson moved that the Town vote to raise and appropriate $65,535 for deposit in the Municipal Transportation Improvement Fund, and to authorize funding of this amount by transfer from the Transportation Improvement Fee Reserve, with no funds being raised by taxation. This Municipal Transportation Improvement Fund was established by Town Meeting in 2000, authorizing the assessment of a $5.00 surcharge for each motor vehicle registered in the Town of Hanover pursuant to RSA 261:153 VI. Since that time and through fiscal year 2001-2002, $65,535 in surcharge fees has been collected and should be deposited in the Fund.
The motion was seconded.
There being no discussion on this Article, a vote was taken by show of hands on Selectman Pierson's motion. The motion PASSED and Article Thirty was ADOPTED.
ARTICLE THIRTY-ONE: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $15,000 for implementation of prioritized storm drain grate replacements and pavement marking to insure safer travel by bicycles within the Town, and to fund this appropriation by authorizing the withdrawal of this sum from the Municipal Transportation Improvement Fund.
Selectman Walsh moved that the Town vote to raise and appropriate $15,000 for implementation of prioritized storm drain grate replacements and pavement marking to insure safer travel by bicycles within the Town, and to fund this appropriation by authorizing the withdrawal of this sum from the Municipal Transportation Improvement Fund.
The motion was seconded.
There being no discussion on this Article, a vote was taken
by people rising to their feet on Selectman Walsh's motion. The
motion PASSED and Article Thirty-One was ADOPTED.
Police $ 42,000
Selectman Connolly moved that the Town vote to raise and appropriate $408,160 and authorize payment into existing capital reserve funds in the following amounts for the purposes for which such funds were established:
Police $ 42,000
The motion was seconded.
Selectman Connolly explained that these were annual contributions made to particular Capital Reserve Funds to be used in the future to keep tax rates relatively level when large purchases were required.
Mr. Morris thought the Wastewater Treatment Plant funding had already been addressed. Moderator Black explained that Article Fourteen addressed plant improvements. This Article would put money into the Wastewater Treatment Plant's Capital Improvement Fund.
There being no further discussion, a vote was taken by show of hands on Selectman Connolly's motion. The motion PASSED and Article Thirty-Two was ADOPTED.
ARTICLE THIRTY-THREE: To see if the Town will vote to raise
and appropriate $123,694 for the purposes listed below and to
authorize funding these items by withdrawal from the listed capital
reserve funds in the following amounts:
Public Works (compactor, leaf $101,858
The motion was seconded.
Fran Sherley, of 9 Willow Spring Circle, asked if additional money could be provided for filtration of the Town's water. Town Manager Griffin explained that Hanover's water was provided by the Hanover Waterworks Company, a private utility owned by Dartmouth College (51%) and the Town of Hanover (49%). She said the Water Company Board of Directors would soon contract with an engineering firm to research filtration technology for the reservoirs. If that Board received a legitimate recommendation for filtration technology they would apply to the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) for permission to install an infiltration plant. The filtration issue would not be addressed by Town Meeting so long as the Water Company continues to exist as a private utility.
Ms. Griffin further explained that the $21,836 for the Wastewater Treatment Plant would be used to purchase a new skid steer.
There being no further discussion, a vote was taken by show of left hands on Selectman Connolly's motion. The motion PASSED and Article Thirty-Three was ADOPTED.
ARTICLE THIRTY-FOUR: To see if the Town will vote to approve the cost items contained in the collective bargaining agreement, approved by the Board of Selectmen on April 7, 2003, between the Town of Hanover and the International Association of Firefighters, Local 3288, which calls for the following increases in salaries and benefits for its members:
Year Estimated Increase
And further to raise and appropriate the sum of $39,578 for the 2003-2004 fiscal year, such sum representing the additional costs attributable to the increase in salaries and benefits over those of the appropriations at current staffing levels paid in the prior fiscal year.
Selectman Pierson moved that the Town vote to approve the cost items contained in the collective bargaining agreement, approved by the Board of Selectmen on April 7, 2003, between the Town of Hanover and the International Association of Firefighters, Local 3288, which calls for the following increases in salaries and benefits for its members:
Year Estimated Increase
And further to raise and appropriate the sum of $39,578 for the 2003-2004 fiscal year, such sum representing the additional costs attributable to the increase in salaries and benefits over those of the appropriations at current staffing levels paid in the prior fiscal year.
The motion was seconded.
There being no discussion of this Article, a vote was taken by show of hands on Selectman Pierson's motion. The motion PASSED and Article Thirty-Four was ADOPTED.
ARTICLE THIRTY-FIVE: To see what sum the Town will vote to raise and appropriate to pay the expenses of the Town for the 2003-2004 fiscal year, for the purposes set forth in the Town budget. This sum does not include the funds voted in any of the preceding or succeeding articles.
Selectman Walsh moved that the Town vote to raise and appropriate $13,193,125.00 to pay the expenses of the Town for the 2003-2004 fiscal year, for the purposes set forth in the Town budget. This sum does not include the funds voted in any of the preceding or succeeding articles.
Selectman Walsh explained the process by which the budget was developed. In November, the Selectmen set a tax rate target of a 2.5% increase. Town staff developed a budget against that target that was reviewed by the Selectmen at a series of public hearings held in February and March. The Selectmen also considered a "Wish List" of items totaling approximately $300,000 and a list of potential cuts or revenue opportunities. He said had all of the "Wish List" items been funded the tax rate would have increased 6.5%. During the review process, funding in the amount of $17,500 was found and then used to pay for improvements to a third bridge on Ruddsboro Road which was red lined by the State. The end result was a 2.8% tax rate increase to the General Fund. The projected tax rate increase to the Fire Fund ranged from 1.8% to 2.3%. Mr. Walsh congratulated the Town Manager and her staff in producing a budget that absorbed $74,600 in State mandated increases in retirement funds and between $112,000 and $232,000 in health insurance increases.
The motion was seconded.
Kari Asmus, of 2 Sausville Road, commented on the proposed cuts to cemetery funding and asked if that would be an ongoing reduction. Town Manager Griffin acknowledged that fairly substantial cuts were made throughout the Public Works Department budget, as it was the largest budget in the Town. This did not mean that similar cuts would be proposed every year. It would be dependent upon the pressures each future budget would face.
Bob Keene, of 1 Woods End Road, asked if the Town's Diversion
Program for youth offenders could consider these activities as
a way to encourage some community action on cemetery maintenance.
Town Manager Griffin said she could certainly explore that possibility.
Stanley Udy, of 3 Butternut Lane, asked how the $13,193,125 budgetary figure was developed. Selectman Walsh said the budget began at $18,806,997. Taking the totality of all of the Articles Town Meeting has approved, that figure is reduced to $13,193,125.
There being no further discussion, a vote was taken by show of hands on Selectman Walsh's motion. The motion PASSED and Article Thirty-Five was ADOPTED.
ARTICLE THIRTY-SIX: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $9,300 to support the services provided to the residents of Hanover by West Central Behavioral Health. This is the second year this article has appeared separately on the warrant.
Selectman Baschnagel moved that the Town vote to raise and appropriate $9,300 to support the services provided to the residents of Hanover by West Central Behavioral Health. This is the second year this article has appeared separately on the warrant.
The motion was seconded.
Selectman Baschnagel reiterated that this was the second year this Article had been on the Warrant. He said West Central Behavioral Heath's funding request was made to cover costs that were not being covered by Medicare, Medicaid and other federal funds. He said the $9,300 requested would only partially cover the expenses West Central Behavioral Health incurs treating Hanover residents.
Hilda Sokol, of 6 Storrs Road, urged Town Meeting to provide this funding. She said the budget cuts at the State level have forced these agencies to become dependent upon local support. She said West Central Behavioral Health provided preventive measures to keep worse things from happening. She asked that Hanover go on record as providing this funding to West Central Behavioral Health.
There being no further discussion, a vote was taken by show of hands on Selectman Baschnagel's motion. The motion PASSED and Article Thirty-Six was ADOPTED.
ARTICLE THIRTY-SEVEN: To see if the Town will vote to send the following resolution to the New Hampshire General Court: Resolved, in its first two years of operation, the Land and Community Heritage Investment Program (LCHIP) has helped communities throughout New Hampshire preserve their natural, cultural and historic resources and, therefore, the State of New Hampshire should maintain funding for LCHIP in its next biennial budget.
Selectman Connolly moved that the Town vote to send the following resolution to the New Hampshire General Court: Resolved, in its first two years of operation, the Land and Community Heritage Investment Program (LCHIP) has helped communities throughout New Hampshire preserve their natural, cultural and historic resources and, therefore, the State of New Hampshire should maintain funding for LCHIP in its next biennial budget.
The motion was seconded.
Selectman Connolly offered to provide information on LCHIP's achievements. Town Meeting opted not to discuss this Article further.
A vote was taken by show of hands on Selectman Connolly's motion. The motion PASSED and Article Thirty-Seven was ADOPTED.
ARTICLE THIRTY-EIGHT: (Article by Petition) To see if the Town will vote to request that our elected officials from all levels of government, and those seeking office, work with consumers, businesses and health care providers to ensure that: everyone, including the self-employed, unemployed, un- and underinsured, and small business owners has access to an affordable basic health plan similar to what federal employees receive; that everyone, including employers, consumers, and the state, local and federal government makes a responsible and fair contribution to finance the health care system; that everyone receives high quality care that is cost efficient and medically effective; and that these efforts help control the skyrocketing cost of health care.
Selectman Pierson moved that the Town vote to request that our elected officials from all levels of government, and those seeking office, work with consumers, businesses and health care providers to ensure that: everyone, including the self-employed, unemployed, un- and underinsured, and small business owners has access to an affordable basic health plan similar to what federal employees receive; that everyone, including employers, consumers, and the state, local and federal government makes a responsible and fair contribution to finance the health care system; that everyone receives high quality care that is cost efficient and medically effective; and that these efforts help control the skyrocketing cost of health care.
The motion was seconded.
Marion Copenhaver, of 14 Woodcock Lane, read a healthcare resolution
in favor of the Article. She reported that New Hampshire residents
paid the second highest health insurance costs in the country.
She urged Town Meeting to send this message to Concord and to
Hanover's elected officials that the healthcare costs were fast
reaching the status of a crisis.
There being no further discussion, a vote was taken by show of hands on Selectman Pierson's motion. The motion PASSED and Article Thirty-Eight was ADOPTED.
ARTICLE THIRTY-NINE: (Article by Petition) To see if the Town will support the proposition that 'pre-emptive war', whereby the United States attacks another country that has not attacked us, is contrary to our best traditions and to our wishes.
Selectman Walsh moved that the Town support the proposition that 'pre-emptive war', whereby the United States attacks another country that has not attacked us, is contrary to our best traditions and to our wishes.
The motion was seconded.
David Montgomery, of 44 River Road, read about the justification of this petitioned article as being another attempt to send a message. He urged Hanover residents to go on record in encouraging peace just as over 160 other towns and cities throughout the country have done.
Fran Sherley, of 9 Willow Spring Circle, said this political statement has no place in the Town Meeting.
Mr. Demming disagreed. He said if the population of this Town felt that it could not make a political statement then we have surrendered our citizenship.
Mr. Sherley, of 9 Willow Spring Circle, said this proposal was strictly a personal opinion, which represented some people's views but not others. He agreed it should not pass at this meeting.
There being no further discussion, a vote was taken by show of hands on Selectman Walsh's motion. The motion PASSED and Article Thirty-Nine was ADOPTED.
Moderator Black thanked Town Meeting for their patience and cooperation. She credited them for having once again proved that the democratic process does work.
ARTICLE FORTY: To transact any other business that may legally be brought before this Town Meeting.
Selectman Walsh moved that the Town vote to transact any other business that may legally be brought before this Town Meeting.
The motion was seconded.
Bob Keene moved that it is the sense of this meeting to express its appreciation to our Town Manager and Town employees, to the endless number of volunteers, and to the Selectboard for their dedication and contributions to this community during this past year. We honor your service and realize that our quality of life is in part due to a result of your efforts on our behalf. Thank you!
John Cassidy announced that the Dresden School District would hold a bond vote the following week. A public review session would be held Wednesday at 7:00 pm. All day voting would be held on Thursday. He urged everyone to vote.
The meeting dissolved at 10:29 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
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