The select board held their last meeting for 2005, Tuesday, December 27. The meeting was brief. DSL (Broadband Internet Service) will be installed in the Town Hall in January.

Dan Tatro has been hired to do the maintenance for the Town Hall.

Chad has discussed with Ray the roads that need to considered for ‘Discontinuance of Maintenance. The roads will not be closed but maintenance will be discontinued. After the list is compiled, the Select Board will decide which roads qualify and discontinue maintenance on the selected roads.

Steve Dean has been notified the Savoy Police Department will receive a grant for $11,299.00 from the Community Police Grant for FY2006.

The Transfer Station is ready to implement stickers. Below are items of interest for the residents who use the Transfer Station:

You must display the current Town of Savoy Permit/Sticker on your vehicle. Failure to renew by February 14 may result in denied access to the facility. Recycling is mandatory.

The Town voted to implement a program of recycling in conjunction with ordinary waste disposal at the Annual Town Meeting on June 20, 1989.

Residents must separate waste materials into the following categories before depositing for disposal: 1) Glass and Can 2) Paper 3) Other Waste

If no separation takes place, waste materials shall not be accepted at the disposal location. Repeat offenders may be either fined up to $300.00 or other action taken as deemed appropriate by the Select Board.

GENERAL FEE SCHEDULE for the Transfer Station Recycling Sticker: Primary vehicle sticker fee is $35.00. Additional vehicle sticker will cost $2.00.

Stickers/purchases can be made at the Town Office:Monday - Friday: 9AM- 1PM with the Office Manager; Tuesdays and Thursdays: 1-5PM with the Town Clerk; Transfer Station hours: Wednesday - 4:30 PM to 8:30PM; Saturday - 8AM to 1PM (Hours for the Transfer Station are subject to change).

Cash and/or checks accepted. Checks are to be made payable to the Town of Savoy, 720 Main Road, Savoy, MA 01256. Vehicle(s) type and registration number will be needed for the application.

Bags can be purchased at the Transfer Station only at the above posted hours. Cash and/or checks are acceptable. Checks are to be made payable to the Town of Savoy.
Fee for bags: 1 roll of 25 bags - $20.00; 2 rolls of 25 bags - $40.00. by Brenda Smith

What has happened since the last entry for this blog! The town’s two new Select Board members, Joe Bettis and Chad Wagenknecht have joined Emile Mazur to complete the Select Board. Both Joe and Chad have been active in their new positions.

Highlights from previous meetings:

November 15:
The General Fund has received $69,217.00 and put in free cash. The Select Board will determine where they want these monies to go.
Tom Zelazo, Savoy State Forest Superintendent, attended the meeting and wanted to know about the town’s plans for Sherman, Tannery, Adams, and Bannis Roads. The Select Board is working with Ray LaBonte on a plan to discontinue portions of roads. Mr. Zelazo does not want to see either Tannery or Adams Roads discontinued. Ray said he has had a request from about 300 snowmobilers to keep roads open for their trail rides.
Tom Krutiak asked the Board if they have a plan for the road in town. He was unhappy with the roads and efforts to get them repaired. The Board would like to be able to bring all the roads up to standard. They would like to repair one road a year until all roads are up to standard. This work will require coming up with funds.
John Delasandro requested a sand barrel be placed on Griffin Hill Road. He volunteered to sand the road to avoid anyone having an accident due to ice and slippery conditions. Ray didn’t think it would be a good idea. The road crew would not be able to adequately plow if a barrel was in their way. Also, the crew would not be able to use the wing plow for pushing snow as the barrel would be in their way. The Board denied the request. Sand has always been available to the townspeople by the town shed.
At the Special Town Meeting, the townspeople voted to allocate $60,000 for road repairs due to the October storm. In the spring an assessment will be made to determine what other damage was a result of this storm. Emile said the town hopes to recover 75% of the expenses from FEMA.
The Select Board discussed other issues facing the town. Level funding has to change. The town is always playing catch up. Snow/ice and wages have to be separated. There is never enough money in the snow/ice account for the winter. Wages have to be removed from the "snow/ice line item" and put in the "houly pay line item". The townspeople need to understand a tax increase is inevitable.

The following is taken from the Select Board minutes for November 22. (I could not attend this meeting).

- Meeting called to order at 7:25 P.M.
- Chad read highway report
- New business discussed, no one from the public present. Joe Bettis to attend a meeting for Board of Health issues in Williamstown 1/11/06.
- Discussion about implementing town transfer stickers.
- Meeting adjourned at 9:05 P.M.

November 29:

A new sign has been hung at town transfer station with the new hours of operation. The Highway Superintendent gave the Select Board a list of people who plowed snow across public highways. The town has a by-law that prohibits this practice. The Chief of Police was sent the list so he could serve notice. After the warning, fines will be levied.
Beginning January 1, 2006, the transfer station will have a transfer station sticker requirement. The fee is $35.00 per calendar year with a $2.00 sticker fee for each additional car. This fee is in addition to the cost of the bags. Residents have until January 31 to purchase the required sticker.
The Windsor Select Board attended to discuss the issue of plowing and sanding Griffin Hill and Bush Road. The highway superintendent’s main issues were the time that it would take for maintenance upkeep due to drifts that blow in. At present Windsor sends their school bus up the road to pickup one student. This causes problems for the Savoy highway department. The highway department’s first priority is to plow Savoy’s bus routes. The highway department would have to discontinue plowing Savoy’s bus routes to accommodate the Windsor bus. Windsor Select Board said they would talk to the parents of the student. If she can bring her child to the bottom of the road to meet the school bus, this might help the situation. For now, each town will plow their own roads.
The Highway Superintendent is putting together a quote for a parking lot addition at the school. Currently, the plan is to place the lot between the basketball court and the weather station.
The discontinuance of roads is an ongoing topic. Jane Phinney has been doing research to find out if there are records of roads that have been discontinued.

December 6:

The town has received $9,247.99 for stumpage fees. These monies are in the General Fund to go to free cash. Emile recommended using for next year’s snow and ice account.
The Board will look into formulating a policy for plowing and sanding town roads. There are complaints about how the road crew plows and sands, how road are prioritised, and when the roads should be plowed.
Emile suggested looking into changing the town’s telephone service provider. The town now uses Richmond Telephone Service. To use the computers the town uses Richmond NET. The service is slow as best. If the town changes to Verizon, DSL will be available. DSL is a much faster service and will provide needed improvement for computer communicating. by Brenda Smith

The Special Town Meeting held Monday evening, November 14th, was well attended. Thirty of the town's registered voters asked questions, offered suggestions, and after intelligent and probing discussion with the Select Board and Highway Superintendant Ray LaBonte about taking the proposed $100,000 from the Stabilization Fund account for the repair of the roads, voted unanimously to reduce the amount to $60,000. The amended article passed overwhelmingly. LaBonte said that FEMA would be reimbursing the town 75% of the money they spent and that the initial amount was in anticipation of what they would need to get the work done, but did not include snow and ice costs. When asked if he would be hurt by a decrease in the total amount he would have to work with, he said he could manage with the lesser amount until spring. Mazur said he needed the input of the voters to decide which way the town had to go about raising the money to get the highway work done. "This town is in trouble!", he said. He warned the only other way the town could raise the money would be to raise taxes.Two other articles on Fire Department issues also passed without oppositionl. The meeting began a few minutes after 7PM and was ended thirty minutes later. The town's two newly elected Selectmen, Chad Wagenknecht and Joe Bettis were in attendance at the meeting. From the Town Clerk

A Special Town Meeting is scheduled for Monday, November 14, 2005, at the Savoy Fire Station at 7:00 PM to vote on the transfer of $100,000.00 from the Stabilization Fund Account to the Emergency Road Maintenance Account.

The town will, also, vote to transfer the sum of $1,500.00 from the Engine 1 Repair Account to the 1983 Mack Truck Repair Account. The sum of $3,288.76 will be voted to transfer from the Engine 1 Repair Account to the Fire Department Equipment and Maintenance Account.

Residents who are qualified to vote in elections and Town affairs are requested to attend this meeting. Residents who are not qualified to vote can also attend. by Brenda Smith

Interest in the Special Town Election was high as 25% of the town's 495 registered voters went to the polls on Tuesday, November 8th, to elect two selectmen to fill the vacated spots left by resigning Select Board members, Rita Pierce and Peter Kelleher. Chad Wagenknecht easily won the 1 1/2 year position with 109 of the 125 votes cast. Write-in candidate, Joe Bettis, received 89 votes to John D'Alessandro's 20, winning the 2 1/2 year term. Mr. Bettis was notified by telephone of the results and agreed to serve as the newly elected Selectman. All three candidates were notified of the outcome by telephone as soon as the votes had been counted. Mr. D'Alessandro was not available for comment, but a message was left on his voice mail. The new Selectmen will begin their duties as soon as they have been sworn in. from the Town Clerk

Savoy residents Bob Veronesi, (Agricultural Commission), Joe Bettis,(Conservation & Agricultural Commissions), and Don Phinney (Planning Board & Town Park Commission), attended a meeting sponsored by the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC) on Wednesday evening, November 2nd, at the BRPC offices on Fenn Street in Pittsfield. The meeting addressed the organization, benefits, and role of Agricultural Commissions currently being implemented in rural towns in the area. Savoy recently passed a 'Right To Farm' by-law at its Annual Town Meeting in June. The Savoy Agricultural Commission was created at that time to serve as a local voice advocating for farmers, farm businesses and farm interests in the community. The meeting was to introduce the newly formed organization to the role of Agricultural Commissions. Speakers included Doug Gillespie, Commissioner of the Mass Department of Agricultural Resources and representatives of the Massachusetts Farm Bureau. Co-sponsors included the American Farmland Turst, the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources, the Norcross Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission. Nathan Karns, Executive Director of the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission, introduced the speakers and welcomed the more than thirty representatives who attended.
...from the Town Clerk

The Special Town Election will take place on Tuesday, November 8th at the Senior Center. Polls will be open from noon to 8PM. Rumors that others would be seeking one of the open Select Board seats have been floating around town for some time, but only one name, that of Joseph Bettis of Loop Road, has been confirmed as a possible candidate. Mr. Bettis has agreed to serve on the 2 1/2 year term if elected by enough write-in votes. The only two names that will appear on the ballot are those of Chad Wagenknecht and John D'Allessandro.

The current Select Board will ask voters to consider the transfer of $100,000 from the Stabilization account to the Emergency Road Maintenance account to address the damage to town roads from the recent storms. A Special Town Meeting will be held at the Fire Station on Monday, November 14th at 7PM. Two other articles will also appear on the warrant to address Fire Department expenses. ....from the Town Clerk

Absentee ballot applications are available from the Town Clerk's office for voters who want to vote in the Special Election on November 8th, but will not be able to do so. You can call and have an application sent out to you or drop in to the office and fill out an application. The number is 743-3759 and the office is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 5PM.
Please note: The deadline to register to vote in the Special Town Election has passed. If you are not a registered voter (as of October 19th) you will not be able to cast a vote.

The Town Clerk will not have office hours on Tuesday, October 25th. from the Town Clerk

I have combined the Select Board meetings of October 11 and October 18. The meetings dealt with the recent storm and damage to the roads of Savoy.

Work has begun to fix the culvert on Chapel Road. A letter was sent to Chapel Road residents informing them of the work. Anyone using Chapel Road should be prepared for delays. The general public will have to wait if there is equipment in the road. Emile Mazur said ‘residents will have to be patient’.

The Transfer Station will be open Wednesdays and Saturdays. The hours of operation will remain the same as summer hours. The Select Board discussed Transfer Station stickers for vehicles. Also, proper bags must be used to dispose of trash. There are individuals who use only the recycle areas and dispose of their trash in store purchased bags that are not approved. This practice puts the attendant in a compromising position. He does not feel he should have to confront the individuals. Electronics have been placed in the metal bin, contaminating the bin. These materials must be removed before the container can be emptied.

The energy audit was completed on the Fire Station. When existing fixtures fail, the department will receive a rebate for replacing obsolete fixtures with proper, energy efficient fixtures. The heating system should be replaced when it breaks down. It was also recommended an ‘on demand thermostat’ be put in place. This will help to reduce cost of heating an unused building.
Chad Wagenknecht volunteered his time and truck to assist with road repair on Saturday, October 8, and Monday, October 10.

A letter has been written to the Bureau of Accountants requesting the town be allowed deficient spending to get money to the highway department to repair roads.

FEMA and MEMA were scheduled to visit the town Wednesday, October 19, to review the damage. These organizations have been in Western Massachusetts looking at damage and what will be the cost to the towns to get work completed. Savoy will have to pay for the materials and additional assistance to get the roads passable for the winter. Ray LaBonte said the town should be reimbursed 75% for these expenses. The question was brought up as to how the town would pay for these expenses. The Select Board has scheduled an 'emergency special town meeting' for November 14 at 7pm at the Fire Station. The townspeople will be asked to support the transfer of $100,000.00 from the Stabilization Fund Account to the Emergency Road Maintenance Account. Mr. LaBonte stated he does not think this amount will cover the repair of roads. There are 19 roads in need of repair. Mr. LaBonte stated that the roads will be 90% repaired when the road work is complete. Mr. Mazur said the Select Board would have to get a bank note to get the work completed. There is no way the highway department can be prepared to remove snow unless the roads are at least 90% repaired.

Fire Chief Krutiak has requested he be removed as the head of Civil Defense for Savoy. Mr. D’Alesandro asked Mr. Mazur if he could take over this position. Mr. Mazur said this would have to be looked into after the election in November. The position is appointed by the Select Board. Mr. D’Alesandro said he wants to set up an emergency plan. He felt that this storm showed the deficiencies in the town’s readiness to respond. Mr. D’Alesandro, also, thinks the highway department needs to have a plan that prioritizes work that needs to be done after a major storm.

'TREAT OR TREAT NIGHT' will be on Saturday, October 29, from 5:30 PM to 7 PM. If you want to have kids stop at your house you must leave an outside light on. If you do do not have a light on, drivers of cars are asked not to stop or bother residents. Let's make this a safe Halloween for all the kids by following this simple request. by Brenda Smith

The ballot for the special town election scheduled for Tuesday, November 8th, will list only two candidates for the two open seats on the Select Board. Nomination papers were submitted and certified for John F. D'Alessandro and Chad J. Wagenknecht. D'Alessandro is seeking the two and a half year term open when Rita Pierce resigns on November 1st and Wagenknecht is running for the remaining one and a half years of Peter Kelleher's term. Mr. Kelleher resigned on August 31st. The candidates are both well known to the community. John D'Alessandro, 46, of 4 Griffin Hill Road is a computer programmer and his political party is listed as 'Unenrolled'. Chad Wagenknecht, 34, of 44 Harrington Road is an electrician and he also is listed as an independent or 'Unenrolled'. Although rumors persist, no individual has declared running a write-in campaign. Individuals who are considering this type of campaign should contact the Town Clerk for information. All candidates for town office are subject to the rules of campaigning and campaign finance reporting.

Savoy residents who are not registered voters of the town who wish to vote in the special November 8th town election, must register to vote by 5PM, Wednesday, October 19th. Voter registration forms are available at the town office. Completed and signed forms can be mailed to the Town Clerk or left at the town office for processing. The town office is open on Monday through Friday from 9AM to 1PM. Tuesday evenings between 7 and 9PM. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 5PM. For information on voter registration or the special election contact the Town Clerk at 743-3759.

Notices that the Attorney General has approved the RIGHT TO FARM by-law and amendments to the HANDICAP PARKING, MAILBOXES, LITTERING fees, and the NUMBERING BUILDINGS by-laws have been posted throughout town to inform the residents that these rules are now in effect. The by-laws were voted on in June and approved by the Attorney General in September. From the Town Clerk's Office

The Select Board meeting scheduled for Tuesday, October 4, was cancelled. If you have any news items you wish to share, you can e-mail to SavoyNews@aol.com. We will post on the blog. Thanks.

Just a reminder that the Lion's Clubs are always looking for used Eye Glasses and Hearing Aids. If you have any that you want to get rid of There are boxes in Windsor at Friendly Freds and in Savoy at the Senior Center. They can be left at the Savoy General Store.
Or if you like call 743-5346 leave a message if not answer and some one will pick them up. by Alice Liebenow

The September 27 Select Board Meeting began at 7:03 PM. Select Board members Rita Pierce and Emile Mazur were ready to carry forth with the agenda. Prospective Select Board candidates Chad Wagenknecht and John D’Alesandro were in attendance.

Mr. Mazur read a letter from George Witek commending Ray LaBonte and his crew for the work they did on culverts. Mr. Witek writes ‘the culverts look like a ‘first-class job. Mr. Mazur said the Select Board often receives letters from residents commending Mr. LaBonte and the road crew for the outstanding job they do to keep the town roads in good shape.

The Select Board in looking into changing the days of the Transfer Station. Mr. Zavattaro has received requests to keep the current schedule as long as possible. Mr. LaBonte suggested that for the winter months maybe the hours should be changed and keep the Transfer Station open longer on Saturdays. Do we really need two days? Wouldn’t longer hours on Saturday be more convenient? Wouldn’t the town save money?

Mr. Wagenknecht, at the request of the Select Board, looked into lighting for the Transfer Station. The choice is between a standard light and a floodlight. After a brief discussion, the decision was to go with a floodlight. There would be more area coverage for the Transfer Station.

Mr. Wagenknecht reported to the Select Board he had contacted WMECO to do an energy audit on the Fire House. WMECO will provide suggestions on what should be done to improve efficiency. This service is free to the community.

The Savoy Karary Kats applied for a permit for a lottery cash calendar to sell lottery tickets. This one-time request was approved for September 27, 2005 to December 31, 2005.

The discussion on Discontinuance of Maintenance of Roads is ongoing. Mr. LaBonte said the roads need to be marked from the point where the roads will not be maintained during the winter to the end of the road.

Mr. Mazur said he had tried to get help from the community, but to date no one has been willing to assist with this task. Mr. LaBonte explained that Discontinuance of Maintenance of Roads is different from Discontinued Roads. Discontinued Roads have to go before the town for approval. The road then reverts to the landowners on those roads.

The question of posting the roads was raised. Mr. LaBonte said a sign, which cost $150, had been posted at the intersection of Adams and Center Road. Vandals have removed the sign. Mr. LaBonte said to continue spending money to post signs would not alleviate the problem. As soon as they are put in the ground, they get lifted. The Town needs to find some means to notify the public and community that certain roads are not maintained by the Highway Department during the winter months. People either do not abide by sign postings or the signs do not remain to warn people to stay off the roads. There have been occasions when people traveling these roads get stuck and need assistance to get out. Mr. LaBonte said tow truck operators would not come to Savoy to assist stuck vehicles on these roads. People then call the Highway Department to get then out of their rut. If tow truck operators will not go down these roads in the winter, the Highway Department should not have to endanger either the road crew or town trucks to try to get people’s vehicles out. The issue is still under review as to the best course of action so the town is not liable for individual’s folly.

The Tax Classification Hearing was easy to resolve. The Town will remain ‘residential’. The tax rate has been lowered from $13.19 to $13.06 as a result of new growth and a tight budget. By Brenda Smith

Select Board Meeting for September 13 was cancelled. The meeting for September 20 was held with Rita Pierce and Emile Mazur present. Both Chad Wagenknecht and John D'Alesandro attended the meeting. The highlights of the meeting are noted below:

A letter relating to the work done on the ditch on Bernie Malloy’s property was read into the minutes. Mr. Malloy signed off that the work was completed September 8, 2005 in the amount of $6,152.34. (Note: At the August 30 meeting, Mr. Malloy asked about the work to be done on his property. Erosion started on Mr. Malloy's property after the highway department started a 'ditch project' last year. Mr. LaBonte went to the Select Board in the Spring to see if there was enough money available to fix Mr. Malloy's property. After a heated disagreement, Rita Pierce asked for the Select Board to go into Executive Session to resolve this issue. When the Executive Session was over, Mr. Mazur said the Select Board had agreed to fix Mr. Malloy's property.) Mr. Mazur stated these monies would come out of highway department funds. Mr. Mazur wanted the townspeople to know how much the work cost. When there are requests for road work, there won't be money.

A letter has been received from the District Attorney, David Capeless, informing the select board all the police departments in the county will be receiving state-of-the-art digital audio-visual recording equipment. Professional installation of the equipment is also being provided.
This donation by Mr. Capeless’s office is made possible through the use of funds forfeited from drug dealers as a result of investigations by the Berkshire Drug Task Force.

Mr. Capeless writes ‘this recording equipment will be used for documenting the interviews of suspects in criminal investigations, in compliance with the mandates of the case of Commonwealth v DiGiambattista, 442 Mass 423 (2004).’

Mr. Don Phinney, Park Commission, attended the meeting to request the Select Board permit Ray Labonte to cut steel beams and drag them over by the picnic tables. These beams will be placed across the river. The Select Board agreed Ray could do the work.

To be in compliance with the DEP, the Select Board will have a sign posted at the ‘dump’ with the name of the facility and hours of operation.

There will be a Tax Classification meeting September 27 at 7:30 pm to set the tax rate for Savoy, and to decided whether to keep the current “residential classification”.

Select Board Chair Mazur said all town committees must keep minutes of their meeting. Minutes of meetings are also available to any town’s person who wants to review them. Mr. Mazur recommended the committees use a loose-leaf binder. A copy of the minutes is to be provided to the Town Clerk and the Select Board.

Susan McGrath provided the following from the ‘Municipal Advocate, Vol. 22, No. 1. What are the requirements for minutes of a public meeting?

“ The Open Meeting Law (M.G.L. Ch. 39, Sec 23B) as well as the Public Records Law, requires every governmental body to maintain accurate minutes of all its meetings. At a minimum, minutes must set forth the date, time and place of the meeting, the identity of the members present or absent, and all “action taken.” Action taken includes not only votes and other formal decisions made at a meeting, but also discussion or consideration of issues for which no vote taken or final determination is made. Each discussion held at the meeting must be identified; in most cases this is accomplished by setting forth a summary of each discussion. A verbatim record of discussions is not required.
The Open Meeting Law contains no provisions regarding the form in which minutes of meetings must be maintained. The longevity requirements for record preservation under the Public Records Law, however, require that a governmental body eventually put its minutes into a written form. Such a requirement is also consistent with the Open Meeting Law’s intent of providing ready access to legible minutes. For the same reason, typed minutes, though not required, are preferable.” by Brenda Smith

The ballot for the town's special election, scheduled for November 8, 2005, will list two residents as candidates for the open Select Board seats. John D'Alesandro, 46, of Griffin Hill Road, is running for the remaining 2 1/2 year term left open when Rita Pierce resigned. Chad Wagenknecht, 34, of Harrington Road, is hoping to fill the remaining 1 1/2 year term vacated by Peter Kelleher's resignation. Both candidates submitted nomination papers to the Registrar before the deadline to do so, (5PM, Tuesday, September 20th), and both had secured more than the required number of signatures of registered voters of the town. Nomination papers had been requested by two other residents, but were not turned in for certification.
Rumors persist that the campaign may include some individuals who will run on a 'sticker' or 'write-in' vote. Anyone interested in doing so would be helped greatly by notifying the Town Clerk of their intentions. There are rules that apply to all campaigners. Knowing what these rules are could save a lot of time and help both you and the voters at the polls. If you are considering a write-in or sticker run for one of the two selectboard seats, please contact the Town Clerk at 743-3759. Office hours are 1 to 5, Tuesdays and Thursdays. You can also leave a message anytime.

Appointees who have not been sworn in for the 2005-2006 fiscal year are required to do so. New members of the Finance Committee and a few other positions on town boards need their members qualified to serve and this can only be done by taking an oath of office. Please contact the Town Clerk as soon as possible to be sworn in. from the Town Clerk

Sandy Totter resigned as chairperson from the Council on Aging. Althea Maynard has agreed to be the Acting Chair until someone comes forward to fill the position. The COA is actively looking for a volunteer to be chair. Contact Althea if you are interested. Althea reminds the community you do not have to be a senior citizen to be on the COA Board or chairperson. Althea was the chair for many years. She is also currently editor of the Savoy Senior Newsletter. Since the Newsletter has been sent out, Althea requests the following the included.

SAVOY STOMPERS REGISTERED FOR MEMORY WALK

The Berkshire Memory Walk will be held on Saturday, September 17th and will follow the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail. Registration is at the Farnam’s Road Causeway. There are 1-mile, 2-mile, and 3-mile walks marked. You can depart any time between 9:00am and 11:00am. If you would like to make a donation, you can make it there or at the Savoy Senior Center. The money raised from the Memory Walk stays in our community to support, educate and improve the lives of those with Alzheimer’s and their families.

COA BOARD ADDRESSES PUBLIC SAFETY

One night this past spring, an ambulance enroute to an injured Savoy senior made a wrong turn. Neither the road where they should have turned nor the one they took had a street sign. The Council on Aging Board at their August meeting vowed to work to correct this situation so that this NEVER HAPPENS AGAIN.

Reflective street signs are a non-negotiable public safety necessity. Our goal is to be able to have street signs in place within the year. We are trying to find out if there are public safety grant programs. Each sign and pole costs between $85 and $110. We have also begun to gather support for our effort.

We are five very determined women, but can certainly use all the help we can get. If you have any information or guidance to offer us, please get in touch. “The life you save could be your own”. from the Council on Aging

TOWN OF SAVOY, FIRST ANNUAL FALL CLEAN-UP
Sandy Totter presented the Select Board information for a clean up to be held on Saturday, October 1 and October 2 from 8am to 1pm at the Savoy Transfer Station, Chapel Road.

Although Sandy has resigned from her town position as representative for the Northern Berkshire Solid Waste District, she will donate these two Saturdays to see this task completed. She told the Select Board she would take care of every thing and they would not have to do anything but get the information out to the townspeople.

What is bulky waste? Bulky waste is a term used to describe large household items that can’t be disposed of like regular household trash. It includes such items as couches, chairs, mattresses, tables, appliances, carpet and the proverbial kitchen sink.

How much does it cost? Using contracts negotiated by the Northern Berkshire Solid Waste District, the costs are the lowest possible. The Town of Savoy and the District have coordinated this collection and staffed it with volunteers to give residents the opportunity to get rid of these difficult items.

Who can bring stuff? This collection is for Savoy residents only.

Questions? Call the Solid Waste District Office at 743-8208.

THE DISPOSAL PRICE GUIDE is online in our photo gallery at www.Savoynews.SmugMug.com.

The Savoy Select Board has accepted a second resignation from a member of its board. Rita Pierce joined Peter Kelleher,(who resigned a week ago), in notifying the Town Clerk that she also will resign her post. She states health problems as her reason for leaving. Her resignation will become effective as of November 1, 2005. Mr. Kelleher left on August 31st.
Plans to include the second Select Board vacancy on the ballot at the Special Election scheduled for November 8th, have been cleared with the Secretary of State’s Office. Individuals considering running for either of these seats must be residents and registered voters of the town. Candidates must take out nomination papers if their names are to appear on the ballot. The papers are available now through Friday, September 16th. The Town Clerk’s office is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 5PM. You can also call the Town Office and request the forms and they will be left for you to pick up. At least twenty (20) signatures of registered voters of the town are required to get your name on the ballot. Nomination papers are due in the Registrar’s hands by Tuesday, September 20th for certification.
The remainder of the current term for each of these seats must be filled. Peter Kelleher’s term will end in May of 2007, and Rita Pierce would have completed her term in May of 2008. Candidates should consider the length of service to complete these terms before they can run for a three year term. Emile Mazur, the remaining Selectman in office, will complete his current term in May of 2006. At that time his seat will also be up for re-election. For more information call the Town Clerk (743-3759) or the Selectmen (743-4290). From the Town Clerk


So, you want to be a Selectman? A Short course in Town Government 101:
It is no secret to this community that the current select board has not been one of our best. Departures by other town officials due to the problems within the select board have contributed greatly for some time now to the difficulty in keeping the town running smoothly. It has not been an easy time for the voters, nor has it been a pleasant time for the individuals serving the town. As Town Clerk, I see most people on an individual basis as well as collectively at town meetings. I try to impart to those who ask about a particular town office the importance of knowing why they want to serve and what that responsibility is.
Not everyone is cut out to be a Selectman. It is a time-consuming, often stressful and constantly thankless job. The monetary compensation is a few pennies above zip and the satisfaction for a job well done is the lonely experience of the individual and is rarely expressed by the voters and other townsfolk who often find everything wrong with the way the town is run the fault of the Select Board. It can also be a rewarding experience and a great feeling of satisfaction of having served your community. When projects and plans turn out well and to the benefit of the community, it is the Selectmen who can usually take credit for what has been accomplished.
Who makes a good Selectman? Not everyone, that’s for sure. A person with a personal gripe against the Highway or Fire Department, the School Board or any individual is not a good candidate. A personal agenda is a waste of time and is the cause of many problems in town government. An individual who thinks the selectmen run the town is also on the wrong planet and if that is the reason for seeking the position, it will be a very difficult awakening once in office.
The ‘TOWN’ = the voters. The Town elects certain individuals to perform tasks we, as voters, do not have the time to do ourselves. In simple terms, the Tax Collector takes the money we pay for our property and keeps a record of it. The Treasurer invests that money for the good of the town and works with it to better serve the needs of the town. The Town Clerk records the history of the town and keeps the town records safe. The Assessors value our property. The Planning Board works to keep laws of the town current and able to cope with new ideas for the community. The Conservation Commission must deal with the laws of the state concerning environmental issues in the community. The Select Board oversees the business of the town. It is their job to prioritize the demands that come into the town office and present it to the voters at town meetings. When the voters decide what should be done by a vote, it is the Selectmen who must work with the state, the budget, the workers, other towns and other town boards, in order to accomplish what the voters want. Often, they find themselves literally between the proverbial “rock and a hard place”. It is not an easy job.
There are a few members of the community who have actively campaigned to have one or all of the current select board removed. This activity was well underway before any resignation was submitted by a select board member. If it contributed to one or more of the resignations, it is not for me to say. I will say this; if there are some who feel they can do the job, please step up and be counted. Put your actions where your mouth is, to be blunt. Prove that you can do a better job. For those of us who did not find this board effective, good for the town, whatever….remember they, at least, were willing to try to serve and should be given some credit for that. It is very easy to find fault with others, especially when we are not willing to do the job ourselves.
This community needs the help of its people. It especially needs the input from younger residents. The future of the town belongs to a younger population and the offices and officers serving should reflect that. Those who constantly criticize the way the town is run should step up and take a chance at doing the job. You may find it a very rewarding experience and the town could benefit from your involvement. a personal reflection by the Town Clerk

Savoy Elementary School Registration:
The Savoy Elementary School will be open for registration on August 25th and 26th from 9am to noon. Registration is for new students in town. A copy of the child's immunization record is required at the time of registration. For more information, call the school at 743-1992. For information regarding bus routes, please call Dufour School Bus Company at 743-7070.
School starts on Wednesday, August 31, 2005.

KELLEHER will resign as of August 31st. The Town Clerk's office has officially received a letter of resignation from Selectman, Peter Kelleher. His resignation will become effective on August 31, 2005. The remaining members of the Select Board, Emile Mazur and Rita Pierce, have been officially notified by this office, in writing, that a vacancy will occur on the board on that date, giving them the option to call a special election or make other plans. If a special election is to be called, and that is the current opinion, it will have to take place between September 1, 2005 and January 28, 2006 to adhere to the requirements of the Massachusetts General Laws. The earliest date an election can be held in Savoy is November 8, 2005. As you can see, there is very little time to pull this all together because of the legal considerations the town must follow. Anyone who would like to fill this vacancy should contact the Select Board or the Town Clerk as soon as possible. Candidates must be registered voters of the town and must take out nomination papers in order to be on the ballot. from...TOWN CLERK'S OFFICE

Peter Kelleher resigns from Select Board. Mr. Kelleher offered his resignation at the Select Board Meeting, Tuesday, August 16. Other business conducted was the approval for the 10% raise for the road crew. The union asked for a 3-year contract and to commence negotiating next year’s raise after this contract is signed. Mr. Malloy was at the meeting to finalize an agreement with the Select Board for restoring his damaged property caused by the town. Mr. Mazur said he was voting ‘no’ and walked out of the meeting (not to return until Mr. Malloy left). Mrs. Pierce said she would not vote since Mr. Molloy is a relative. Mr. Kelleher said he would check with the town lawyer to see if he could make the necessary decision as Chair of the Select Board. by Brenda Smith

Below are the minutes from the Select Board meeting of July 19. Due to a previous commitment, the Savoy Mountain News did not have anyone in attendance.

The Select Board Meeting for July 19, 2005 was called to order at 7:08pm. Select Board members in attendance, Peter Kelleher, Chair, Emile Mazur, and Rita Pierce. The meeting was attended by eleven additional town members. Minutes from the July 5, 2005 meeting were read and accepted as amended.
Ray LaBonte and Peter Kelleher had a brief disagreement about the way the Highway Report was prepared. Peter thought the report was childish and not appropriate for this meeting. Peter asked Ray to read the report and he refused. Stephanie Vidmosko, who was taking the minutes, turned off the tape recorder before leaving the meeting in a display of disgust; therefore, there is a gap in the recording. Peter read the portion of the report that contained facts and did not read Ray’s comments or opinions. Emile and Rita refused to initial the report as a protest that Peter did not read the entire report as written. The meeting was moved forward as Ray described the problem he has with road repairs when new construction of homes take place on sections of roads that have been unused and unmaintained for many years. Ray said the town needs to address the issue of discontinuance of roads. Emile explained the issue has been tabled in the past because the Select Board could not find the resources to complete this task. Emile stated the lawyer had told him when the town discontinues maintenance of roads, the road becomes a private way and goes back to land owners who abut the road. As a private way, the landowner who wishes to reactivate a road must improve it to current standards, and then the town takes it over again. Ray would like these discontinued many roads immediately. Emile explained that it takes a 2/3 town vote at a town meeting to do this. Emile suggested it be decided at a later time whether or not the issue is handled by the Select Board, Planning Board or Zoning Board. Ray raised issues regarding the Savoy Mountain News reporting of comments made during the Select Board Meeting of July 5, 2005. Ray didn’t think the article was very accurate. He felt the Select Board Minutes differed from what the News published. Portions of the article were read by Ray. Ray continued to comment on the lack of action from the Select Board regarding the pre-union agreement between the Town and the Highway Department. He stated the agreement did not finalize so the men sought assistance from the union. He stated the intent of the union contract was to take the pre-union contract and have it become the union contract. Peter asked Ray to focus on his purpose of his concerns for the article in the paper. Ray wanted to address the News article statements and ask to have the comments clarified. The editors of the paper were not present at this meeting. The ability of the Select Board to decide on contract details became a concern for Ray. Early on in the contract negotiations, Ray stated the Select Board held the position that the Town’s people had to decide on the contract details. Ray asked why the News article now states the Select Board makes the decision on the contract. Peter explained that when Alan, Emile and Rita first talked about an agreement, a lengthy one was written up and presented to the Highway Department. Peter pointed out that when he began on the Board in the spring of 2004, Emile pushed heavily to get that agreement signed and there was a refusal from the highway department to sign it. Emile did not know why it was not signed, but felt it was not a refusal to sign. Peter offered his recollection of what took place: The agreement between the Select Board and the Highway department was not signed due to the union stepping in and taking the place of the Highway Department’s role in the negotiations. Ray stated they have only signed one agreement, which is the one prior to the pre-union contract. Emile confirmed this and stated the Select Board told them to work under the first agreement until the second could be finalized. Peter noted that this is when he started on the Board. Since then, the union contract has been the focus. Ray moved on to the discussion on his raise of 10% and his men not receiving the same raise. Emile stated the town’s people gave a 10% raise to all. Ray asked for clarification on why the men didn’t get the raise.
Peter explained the Town Counsel gave advice and the Select Board is following that advice. At the town meeting, the town’s people levied or appropriated up to 10% and it’s the Select Board’s discretion of how much of that 10% will be given as a raise. It was agreed that the explanation of the process at the Town Meeting was unclear. Peter explained that the Select Board did not have a clear understanding of how this worked at that time. The issue of the School Committee granting raises to school employees was explained by Peter in that the School Committee governs the school, not the Select Board, by law. Ray asked why in a Finance Committee meeting in early 2005 it was agreed that he should get a 20% raise and the News article stated Peter felt Ray should only get a 5% raise. Peter explained it was not the amount of the raise he questioned. It was the manner in which the 10% raise was presented to the Town for a vote. Ray presented a clarification on the sick and vacation time buyback of $8,000. He explained that it is a compensation worked out years ago to avoid a cash raise to the men. Ray completed his questions.
The Select Board has not heard from Town Counsel on the Adams Road culverts in the Tower 51 road project. The question regarding private contractors installing them is the issue. Ray announced the highway department has $141,000 to repair Adams Road. The highway department will start at the Adams town line and work back into Savoy until money runs out. Emile will negotiate price for fuel with Berkshire Retail Purchasing group. A report has been received from the State Bridge Inspectors about Black Brook Bridge. The bridge is sound, but work needs to be done to see that is stays that way. Peter asked Ray to talk over the report and determine what can be done by his department. Ray stated there is nothing he can do. Peter asked that it be discussed at a later time. Mike Canales, Clarksburg Town Administrator, spoke to the Select Board about his position in Clarksburg and what he hoped to be able to do for Savoy. The Select Board will continue discussion about a Town Administrator for Savoy.
A brief discussion about an audit for the town accounting was held. Beverly Cooper felt she would like to have an audit since she is starting new in the position. Peter checked with Joe Boudreau and was told unless the town had more than $500,000 in grants, it was not necessary to have an audit. The cost for an audit will be about $8,000. It was decided to take no action on an audit at this time.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:56pm. from Select Board

Editors Note: Regarding Mr. Labonte’s accusations about the Savoy Mountain News inaccuracies, I have already clarified to Ray Labonte that all meetings I attend are tape recorded by me to ensure their accuracy, whether the reader agrees or not is another matter. The selectmen tape record as well and then write the minutes from the recording every week. Since the minutes are an official record, the entire meeting is not recorded verbatim; therefore our reporting is more detailed

Volunteers are needed to help at the Town Park. An active group of participants who are willing to help with trail work, tree planting, creating flower gardens, brush clearing, bridge building, and other healthy projects will give a much needed boost to the town park projects that have been on hold because of a lack of bodies willing to do physical work on the project. The creation of FRIENDS OF THE TOWN PARK will happily enlist anyone who would like to help on these very physical chores, for shot periods of time. Efforts to get work at the park going have been centered on the building of the pavilion, but there are many other projects worth being involved with that require a number of able bodies to get things done. Even if you can only afford a few hours at a time to something, it would be greatly appreciated. The first 'FRIENDS' will meet at 8:00 AM on Saturday, August 20th, at the park. For information on the work planned and how to sign up to help, call Don Phinney 743-3361.

Select Board meeting scheduled for August2 was cancelled. Mr. Mazur and Mrs. Pierce were not available for the meeting. The meeting for August 16 will be held as scheduled according to Mr. Kelleher. by Brenda Smith

I was not able to attend the Select Board meeting July 19 due to a previous appointment. Information from the Select Board meeting will be available August 2 after the Select Board accepts the July 19 minutes. Brenda Smith

The Savoy Volunteer Fire Department has a new Chief. Keven Krutiak was sworn in on Tuesday, July 19th, as the Fire Chief. He replaces Richard T. Krutiak, his father, who has held the post for many years. Also sworn in to fill vacant town positions were: Allan Carlow, John Del'Assandro and Susan McGrath for the Finance Committee. The Finance Committee's previous members all declined to serve under this Select Board, stating their frustration in separate letters.
The Treasurer's job, vacant when Sandra Brazee resigned in June, has been filled by the appointment of Beverly Cooper, the newly appointed accountant. Ms. Cooper has agreed to serve as temporary Treasurer until a candidate can be found to take on the work on a permanent basis. The Treasurer is an elected official. There is one more year to go in Brazee's term before the job is up for re-election. From the Town Clerk's Office

New town appointments include Karen Freitag of Tilton Road who was sworn in as the new Assistant Town Clerk and Beverly Cooper of North Adams as the new Accountant. Many other appointees need to contact the Town Clerk to be sworn in for this year. Please call 743-3759 and make arrangements to take your oath of office. Duties can not be assumed until this process is completed. Regular office hours for the clerk are on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1PM to 5PM. from Town Clerk's Office

Emile steps down as Select Board Chairman, Tuesday, July 2. He resigned at the beginning of the meeting stating after two years of being the Select Board Chairman, he was burnt out and needs to step back and take it easy. Emile nominated Peter Kelleher to be Chairman. Both Emile and Rita concurred. Peter took charge of the meeting. Emile said he was staying on the Board of Health as Chairman by court order. Emile said he had eleven more months and would stick to his term and make his decision as to what he wanted to do at that time.

(I have tried to incorporate dialogue from the Select Board meeting so you can have a view of just how the meeting flowed. This was one of the more lively meetings I have attended.)

Peter said the Board would like to move forward with meeting with the union and proposed to have the meeting on an off night and not on a Tuesday night. Emile suggested “keep the meeting with the union on a Tuesday night so the general public could come in and listen to the negotiations. A night other than a Tuesday night would not be appropriate.”

Peter replied, “as Mr. Scully had suggested the public doesn’t have input on what we decide with the union. The public has hired us, so to speak, to make these decisions. So, I don’t believe the public needs to be involved in these negotiations.”

“But they are open to the public as far as I know” commented Emile.

It was resolved to keep the meeting open and on a Tuesday night. Meeting with the union tentatively scheduled for August 16 provided all three Select Board members are available.

There was a discussion whether or not to give Ray the 10% wage increase appropriated in the FY2006 Budget and approved by the townspeople at the Annual Town Meeting. Peter did not feel Ray should be given the 10%. He felt that the 10% should be spread over two years. Rita and Emile said the 10% should be given to Ray because it was supported at the Annual Town Meeting. “Ray is not part of the union negotiations; he is supervision and should get the 10%”. Emile felt if Ray wants a raise in the future he would have to talk to the town. The employees who want the union, their wages will be held back until the negotiations are complete. At that time their wages will be retroactive to July 1, 2005.

Peter didn’t agree Ray should get the 10% now, he felt Ray should get 5% now. “The Town appropriated the 10% so we as a Select Board could use up to 10%. The Town did not vote on his raise, we do that.”

Rita replied, “the Town appropriated the money, we ask them to do that.”

The Select Board said this is a one-time wage increase. Ray is not involved in contract negotiations.

I asked the Select Board “when you asked the townspeople to vote for the 2006 budget that was the understanding when they voted, he (Ray) would get a 10% pay raise. Why would the Select Board change that figure and want to put it over 2 years?”

Peter restated the question, “If the town appropriated 10% for the raises, why would the select board come back and change that rate to a lower value?” Peter’s answer, “it has always been my opinion that Ray does not deserve a 10% raise. So, I am taking this opportunity to exercise my right on the Board to say I think it should be cut. These folks next to me say 10% and the Board will carry. So it will be 10%; but for the record I think it should be 5%.”

Mr. Rosenthal commented, “I think you are getting a bargain. The man plows the road 24/7.” Mr. Rosenthal further explained he felt for the responsibility Mr. LaBonte has as the Road Superintendent, the town was getting a bargain.

“If Mr. LaBonte decided to leave the position, we would not be able to get anyone to come in here for that job for that cost. I have always contented we should raise the position not the individual”, Emile said.

Peter said there was a little bit more behind the situation than we are aware of. He further explained. “The package that these gentlemen get, not only compensation, but the enormous, in my opinion, amount of time they have off, the vacation pay that if they don’t use it they get cash for it, and sick time, if they don’t use it, they get cash for it. So, in other words, they are guaranteed above and beyond, not just their salary or wage, they are guaranteed almost $8,000 more a year that you, the townspeople, don’t every hear about.” If they don’t use vacation or sick time, they get the cash at the end of the year.

Peter asked Phil O’Brien to show the Select Board the compensation package because they are not underpaid. Hourly wage, they may be underpaid; but total compensation they may get much more than the other towns around.

The question was asked what was Ray’s main job. Emile explained Ray works for the Highway Department. That is his main job. Anything else is on Ray’s own time. He is the Highway Superintendent and has no other job.

(From the June 28, 2005 Select Board Meeting minutes relating to the other Highway Department employees: “Any raises negotiated in the contract will be retroactive to July 1, 2005. As of now the raise is not in effect. Discussion continued as to whether a one- year or three year contract was in the best interest of either party. The Select Board on the advice from Mr. Scully reconsidered the raise structure of the Highway Department. The Select Board was reminded that they are not rushed into by any time limit making these decisions. Select Board proposed a 5%, 2 ½%, 2 ½% raise spread over the next three years, which is equal in total to 10%. The decision was rejected by the Highway Department. Listing the main reason for objection as: It as agreed upon in the town meeting to give the Highway Department a raise on July 1, 2005 of 10%. Discussion concerning the benefits the Savoy Highway Department workers receive was discussed compared to other town highway workers. Documentation will be presented by Phillip O’Brien regarding these differences.”)

The next Select Board Meeting is scheduled for July 19. by Brenda Smith

Reconstruction of Adams Road to begin this summer. The project on Adams Road will cost $147,000 which is all of the Chapter 90 money plus $8,000 from the road improvement fund. The highway department was planning on using Chapter 90 money to buy an excavator, but this money will be consumed by the cost of the Adams Road project. The town will have to rent an excavator for the work. Ray will do ditch work and whatever else he can do to prepare the road and then hire out the remainder of the work on Adams Road.


2005 PAINT COLLECTIONS
Northern Berkshire Solid Waste Management is again offering a paint disposal and recycling program. The district has covered the cost of paint disposal in the past but due to increased cost they needed to pass on the costs to residents. It will cost $4 a gallon to dispose
(recycle) paint. Centers recycling paint are:

Williamstown Transfer Station: July 16, August 20, September 17 and October 22
Cheshire Shed: July 9, August 13, September 10 and October 15
Hinsdale Shed: July 23, August 27, September 24 and October 29

Coupons in $2, $10 or $20 denominations can be purchased from transfer station attendants or at the paint sheds on collection days.
These collections are for PAINT ONLY. "Paint" can be latex, oil-based, alkyd, stains or polyurethane. Hazardous waste will NOT be accepted at this time. That collection will be held in early November.

SPECIAL TOWN MEETING: The June 30th special town meeting was off to a good start with forty registered voters unanimously passing the first six (6) articles which dealt mostly with the transfer of end-of-fiscal-year-funds from one account to another. Article #4 addressed the $1,500 from the Free Cash Account to purchase the 1983 Mack Truck for the Fire Department. It generated a lively discussion on how many calls the fire department answered during the year and how much money would be left in the Free Cash account. The discussion influenced the vote on Article #5 as well, which also took $4,077 from the Free Cash account to repair the same truck. In the end, the voters unanimously approved both articles.
The five remaining articles involved bylaws and bylaw changes. Each article produced a number of interesting questions as well as criticism. Article #7, addressing handicap parking, caused the least concern for the voters, but Articles 9,10, and 11, all of which were eventually approved by the voters, generated a great deal of debate as to their merit. These three articles concerned the responsibility for mailboxes along the roadside, which barly passed by a 14 to 13 vote, the raising of fines for littering, which passed with a 19 in favor to one opposed in the final vote, but at least half of the town's voters in attendance abstaining on each of these two article. The street numbers bylaw went through easily. Only one article (#8) which dealth with the logging issue was defeated. Voters did not think the wording of the bylaw was sufficient to address the issue and asked the Select Board to go "back to the drawing board" on that one.
The meeting began promptly at 7PM and ended at 8:05. From the Town Clerk's Office

Show Me the Money! Those four little words were the unspoken standard from the union representative, Mr. O'Brien, during one of the final phases of negotiating a contract with the Select Board for highway department employees Tuesday night. The Select Board has been negotiating for over a year with the union to reach a contract agreement. Emile asked, Mr. Scully, the town lawyer if the voters had to ratify the agreement? The response was ‘no’, but the voters would have to approve the funding for the raises negotiated in the agreement. The Select Board can negotiate below the 10% given in the FY2006 Budget, if above the 10% must go to the voters for approval for funding. Peter asked Mr. Scully what was the time frame for extending the procedure. The response was “no need to rush”. Emile said the employees need a contract to give them yearly wage increases and job security. Some of the ‘fringes’ in the agreement are sick leave, vacation, and bereavement leave. The Select Board went into Executive Session to discuss the wage increase for a 3-year contract. When the meeting was opened, the Select Board wage proposal was 5% the first year, 2.5% the second, and 2.5% for the third year. Mr. O'Brien did not think the percentages were adequate and would not accept the offer. Mr. O'Brien offered a counter-proposal for a one-year agreement with a 10% increase retroactive to July 1, 2005 (FY2006). Mr. O'Brien also told the Select Board that they (union and Select Board) could start negotiating for a new contract as soon as this one was agreed to for FY2006. The Select Board tabled the discussion, and agreed to meet again with Mr. O'Brien either August 2 or August 16.
The town employees and union representative felt that the 10% received in the FY2006 Budget was not enough. It was mentioned several times that the employees of Savoy receive much less pay than other towns. Peter asked Mr. O'Brien to supply the Select Board with the names of the towns they are using as a reference. Mr. O'Brien said he got the copy from the town. Peter said he was on the Finance Committee and asked to see the list. A copy of a list was handed to Peter. Peter said that was not a list prepared by the town. Peter commented he felt that the comparison of towns should not be ‘apples and oranges’. Mr. O'Brien is to get back to the Select Board with a list of towns for comparison. Mr. O'Brien said Owen’s health insurance had gone up $20 and he needed more money to cover this type of expense. Owen also brought up other towns pay employees overtime, night differential and a regular 40 hours a week wage. (Note: At the Annual Town Meeting, when the issue was brought up regarding changing the 10% hourly pay increase to 2.5% as suggested by the Finance Committee, it was brought to the attention of the townspeople that the line item vacation, personal and sick days would also be changed. Not only did the highway department receive 10% hourly pay, 10% was approved for vacation, personal and sick days. Hourly pay; and Vacation, Personal and Sick Days were part of Article #3, Town Highway Department Expenses.)

Other notes from the Select Board Meeting, June 28:
Emile noted the condition of the Town Hall. A few of the problems are new sills need to be installed, new roof, flooring, windows for downstairs, paint touch-up, wobbly fan and winter shoveling. The Select Board will continue their pursuit of trying to find funding for a custodian or building superintendent on a part-time basis. Emile said ‘it is vital to keep the building repaired’.
There were no responses to the solicitation for a Town Treasurer. The Select Board will appoint a Treasurer for one year when a qualified candidate comes forward. The issue of changing the position from an elected to an appointed position must be addressed by the townspeople to avoid future situations of the elected person resigning and not fulfilling the elected position. Emile said the position requires approximately 8 hours a week.
The Select Board Meeting will be held every other week during July and August. The scheduled meeting dates are July 5, July 19; August 2, August 16 and August 30. by Brenda Smith

The Police Department is looking to rent a garage in Savoy for the new police cruiser for the winter. The solicitation is open until July 31. Anyone interested, please contact the Select Board at 743-4290. from the Select Board

Below are the articles to be voted on at the Annual Town Meeting to be held at the Fire Station, June 30. The meeting will start at 7:00 PM.

FISCAL YEAR 2006

ARTICLE #1. To see if the town will vote to raise or appropriate the sum of $ 5,000.00 for the Highway Department Garage Doors Replacement Account or take any other action in relation thereto:
Yearly (Capital Improvement)

FISCAL YEAR 2005

ARTICLE #2. To see if the town will vote to transfer the sum of $ 3,000.00 from the FY 05 Health 32B Account to the FY 05 FICA/Medicare Town Share Account or take any other action in relation thereto:

ARTICLE #3. To see if the town will vote to transfer the sum of $ 1,000.00 from the FY 05 Electric Account to the FY 05 Telephone Account or take any other action in relation thereto:

ARTICLE #4. To see if the town will vote to transfer the sum of $ 1,500.00 from the Free Cash Account to purchase a 1983 Mack Truck for the Fire Department or take any other action in relation thereto:

ARTICLE #5. To see if the town will vote to transfer the sum of $ 4,077.00 from the Free Cash Account to the Fire Department 1983 Mack Truck Repair Account or take any other action in relation thereto:

ARTICLE #6. To see if the town will vote to transfer the sum of $ 1,748.38 from the New Voting Booth/Counter Account to the Fireproof Safes Account or take any other action in relation thereto:

ARTICLE #7. To see if the town will vote to accept the following as a bylaw: Handicap Parking Violations, Section I: No person shall park in designated parking area without a proper handicap license plate and/or handicap identification card. Section II: Any or all persons in violation will be fined $100.00 for violation. Section III: Enforcing Authority: Any authorized Savoy Police Officer, or take any other action in relation thereto:

ARTICLE #8: To see if the town will vote to accept the following as a bylaw: Protection of Public Ways from Logging Damage, Section I: Logging Operation Permits: No person shall engage in logging operations without first obtaining a permit from the Savoy Select Board. Before such permit is issued, the applicant shall provide details of the proposed operation and may be required to provide a cash bond which, in the opinion of the Savoy Select Board and/or Highway Superintendent is sufficient to cover any damage caused by the project. Section II: Violations of Article: Any person violating the provisions of this bylaw shall, upon conviction thereof, pay a fine of $100.00 for the first offense, $200.00 for second offense and $300.00 for third and subsequent offenses. Enforcement Officer: Any Savoy Select Board member, Highway Superintendent and/or Police Officer or take any other action in relation thereto:

ARTICLE #9: To see if the town will vote to accept the following as a bylaw: Mailboxes: It shall be the responsibility of all residents to place their mailbox in a safe and appropriate location so that snow can be cleared without obstruction. Any expense incurred as a result of the damage to the mailbox should be born by the owner or takes any other action in relation thereto:

ARTICLE #10: To see if the town will vote to amend the bylaws of the town by deleting Section IV Article III Section 4 and in substitution thereof place the following:
Section 4 Littering
$100.00 for first offense
$200.00 for second offense
$300.00 for third and subsequent offenses
or take any other action in relation thereto:

ARTICLE #11: To see if the town will vote to amend the bylaw of the town by adding to By-Law Numbering Buildings Section 4 and in addition thereof place the following sentence:
Each day such violation continues shall constitute a separate offense or take any other action in relation thereto:

THERE ARE 3 NEW POSTS. IF THEY DO NOT APPEAR, CLICK ON JUNE 2005, BELOW IS NEW POSTS. CLICK AND THEY WILL APPEAR. THE PROBLEM IS BEING WORKED ON. THANK YOU.

SPECIAL TOWN MEETING
Voters are reminded that a Special Town Meeting is scheduled for Thursday, June 30th, at the Fire Station. Eleven articles (11) are on the warrant. Four (4) deal mostly with the end of fiscal year transfers of money. Five articles (5) refer to by-laws that address handicap parking, logging, mailboxes, littering, and street numbers. Two (2) pertain to the transfer of $5,577 from the Free Cash account to purchase and repair a 1983 Mack Truck for the Fire Department. The meeting is scheduled to begin promptly at 7PM. From Town Clerk's Office

JOB SEARCH
The voters approved reinstating the position of Assistant Town Clerk at the Annual Town Meeting on June 8th. The job has a small compensation of $500 a year.
The Town Clerk's Office is governed by the Massachusetts General Laws and the town's by-laws. The Town Clerk is elected by the voters. The Assistant Town Clerk is appointed. In the town of Savoy, both positions are part-time.
The office of the Town Clerk records, reports, and is responsible for maintaining the history of the town. Except in very rare cases, the Town Clerk does not have policy-making powers.

WORK: An Assistant Town Clerk would be trained to handle all the office work that the Town Clerk is responsible for. Deadlines, accuracy, and detail work are the main concerns of a job that is generally pleasant, easy to perform, and free of stress.
Computer work is heavy. Contact with state departments is constant and requires good letter writing skills (typing, composition and grammar). The ability to converse by phone and computer with state officials of all levels is part of the job.
Research is a major part of the work the town clerk does. It is time-consuming and often tedious and dirty (dusty old records). But it is interesting work. Many genealogical searches are required during the course of a year and contact with individuals researching their family backgrounds can be very pleasant and rewarding.
A good part of the Town Clerk's duties require confidentiality. Although most records are open to the public, there are a few instances where information must be kept confidential.

HOURS: After town elections in May and the start of the new fiscal year on July 1, the workload can easily be done by the Town Clerk alone and within the currently posted work hours. By September, however, activity in the Town Clerk's office picks up rapidly with state primaries and elections. In January the work becomes very heavy with the sending out of the annual census (street lists) and the beginning of the dog licensing period.
An Assistant Town Clerk should be available to work at least 10 hours a month for 5 months out of the year and be able to help out at peak times.

Nothing in the Town Clerk's Office is routine. It is, however, an interesting and rewarding workplace for anyone who likes detailed work, history, computer work and contact with the public. If you do not like deadlines, filing, research, and constantly filling out reports, the job is probably not for you. But..if it does sound like work you would like to do, please contact the Town Clerk at 743-3759 or the Select Board at 743-4290 for more information. From Town Clerk's Office

The Select Board Meeting, Tuesday, June 21, was really uneventful. The minutes from the June 14 meeting were read. Rita had taken the minutes by hand, although the minutes had been taped recorded. Also, minutes from the meetings of February and March were read. The Select Board is catching up on the missed minutes from previous meetings.
Beverly Cooper from North Adams was selected for the position of accountant. She will start July 5.
Rita submitted a letter for a temporary medical leave of absence. Rita’s absence will begin July 5. She told Emile and Peter she would return as soon as possible. by Brenda Smith

Cummington Lions are selling brooms as a fund raiser. They are Rubber Maid Corn Brooms with a detachable handle and the price is $10.00. Anyone interested in seeing or purchasing a broom may call 743-5346 and leave a message if not at home or you may e-mail me. I will bring a broom for you to inspect or there are some at the Savoy General Store.
LionAlice33y@aol.com

The Select Board meeting Tuesday, June 14, was uneventful. Peter had not transcribed the minutes from the previous meeting. The meeting had to be continued without the reading of the minutes. Stephanie Vidmosko was out of town and could not take the minutes of the meeting. Rita said she would take the minutes while Peter manned the tape recorder. The work log from the Road Superintendent was read and accepted. Ray LaBonte was present and thanked the board for their raise. He said “it’s going in the right direction but not quite there”. The Select Board, Town Counsel, Union Representative and Town Crew are to meet to discuss a ‘union’. To make sure the highway department has wage stability, a union is needed to make sure they get wage increases.

Peter said there were large holes on New State Road. Ray replied he had graded and put gravel in the holes. From normal road usage, he didn’t expect the gravel to stay.

There is no funding for roadside trash clean up. To repair Black Brook Road, funds are needed for the work. An extension has been granted for the STRAP grant until June 2006. In response to a question about the status of the Culvert ‘A’, Ray said, “have to be out of the river by September 28.” He is trying to get things moving forward. A bridge is not feasible to place over the culvert. Because of environmental considerations, a bridge is limited in width. If the culvert were to collapse, it would take everything with it. Repair of Culvert ‘B’ or ‘C’ will be considered if Culvert ‘A’ approvals do not come through.

There was money left over from the Engine 1 Repair Account. The money from the Engine 1 Repair Account and ‘free cash’ will be used to support the article for the 1983 Mack truck. Articles will be presented at the Special Town Meeting to be held June 30.

A resignation letter was read from Sandy Brazee. She stated she could no longer volunteer 15 hours a week to the position. There was a discussion among the Select Board members and the consensus is, “Sandy has left the town in dire straits”. The Select Board has to find out if there is any town official qualified to sign checks until a replacement can be found. No Select Board member can sign checks since they write the warrants.

A letter was read from Jane Phinney, Town Clerk, informing the Select Board she is writing a job description for the position of Assistant Town Clerk. Jane noted in her letter the individual must have computer knowledge; be available January – May, will not handle money. The assistant Town Clerk cannot serve at the Town Meeting as a Town Official. Due to the sensitive type of work handled, the individual must also abide by confidentiality rules.

Peter brought up the matter of Keith not calling when trash needs to be emptied. Peter said he has told Keith to call him and he will immediately call the trash companies to come up. If there is no call, there is a trash overflow. This creates a problem if it occurs for the Saturday opening of the dump.

The residents asked informative questions at the Annual Town Meeting. It was difficult for me to follow the responses since I was trying to take notes. This was neither the time nor place for follow up questions I had. I asked Emile if the Select Board would be willing to have question and answer sessions with me for “Savoy Town Management 101”. Emile responded favorably. I look forward to having a clearer understanding of the problems facing the town and impact on the townspeople. by Brenda Smith

A comment about the closing of Savoy Mountain State Forest to all-terrain vehicles was posted under one of the articles. To anyone who missed reading the information in other publications, we hope this answers your question. Below is the press release, dated April 28, 2005; about the closing of the State Forest.

“SAVOY MOUNTAIN STATE FOREST WILL NOT BE REOPENED TO OFF ROAD VEHICLES"

Due to public safety concerns and increasing environmental impacts from off-road vehicles (ORVs) and other motorized uses on the trails of the Savoy Mountain State Forest, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) will not reopen the state forest to motorized trail use this year.

DCR made this decision after determining that continued motorized vehicle use in the Savoy Mountain State Forest would cause severe and irreparable harm to the forest and its trails and would place trail users and park visitors at risk. The evaluation criteria used to make this determination included wetlands conditions and protection, topography and slopes, soil conditions, habitat protection, and public safety.

“At DCR, we place the utmost importance on public safety and the protection of the natural resources in our care,” said Stephen Pritchard, Acting Commissioner for DCR. “Our analysis and recent trail inspections have clearly demonstrated that motorized vehicle use on Savoy’s trails would not be in the best interest of either of these priorities.”

Savoy Mountain has previously been one of eight state forests where ORV use was allowed by DCR since 1996. The state agency does plan to open other Berkshire County forests to motorized use on May 1st with ORVs being allowed in Pittsfield State Forest, October Mountain State Forest, Beartown State Forest and Tolland State Forest. Recent and forecasted heavy rains may result in postponement of the opening until trails dry out enough for minimal trail impact and safe riding. DCR is evaluating the weather and conditions before officially opening on this date.” from the editors

I attended the 5th Grade Graduation on Thursday, June 9th. It was an enthusiastic packed house despite the heat wave we’ve been immersed in, temperatures were high inside of the new addition where the ceremony was planned. It did not stop special guest Emma Miller from attending, this year she celebrated her 100th birthday! Earlier in the year the students created special birthday cards and threw her a birthday party at the school, where she spoke with students and related old time stories about her life. She is sitting in the front row in the pictures.
The graduates especially felt the heat with their gowns on, but they were happy this day was here. I talked with them in their classroom where they were nervously hanging out waiting for 1:00pm sharp. They told me how much they were going to miss Savoy Elementary and that they “hated leaving”. I had the same feelings myself, my sister and I both graduated from Savoy. In Savoy’s unique situation with small groups of students and teachers there is definitely a special bond that develops. Mrs. Nowicki touched on that when she was addressing the class.

Principal Marjorie Senecal opened the ceremonies followed by the Flag Bearer and Pledge Leader, Joshua Serre & Ashley Serre. Everyone sang “America” and “Grand Old Flag”. Grades K-1 sang, “There Used To Be an Alligator Under My Bed” and Grades 2 & 3 performed a singing and dancing routine to “Why Do You Build Me Up?”. Becky Daniels sang a beautiful solo performance of “Desperado”. The 4th and 5th graders performed recorded selections (accompanied by Dylan Walker on the piano) of “Hot Cross Buns” and “Hymn to Joy”. Other songs performed were “Dig it” and I Love Rocky Road”.
The graduates each took a turn chronicling their progressions from Kindergarten through 5th grade, their adventures and educational experiences. They each presented their Class Prophecy, where they will be in 20 years. We had a nice range of scientists and computer engineers to famous dirt bike riders to country western singers. I think this group will put Savoy on the map!
Mrs. Nowicki had a surprise from the class, tongue-in-cheek gifts from each student, one of which was a “tissue for her issues”.

A Recognition award went to each graduate: Jacob Ziter- Friendship Award, Becky Daniels- Music Abilities, Jakob Kelly- Knowledge of Ancient History, Garrett LaSage- Computer Technology and Problem Solving, Dylan Walker- Leadership Abilities, Jai Marshall- Creative Writing, Keith Anderson- Science Award, Brendan Hayden- Penmanship.
Attendance awards went to Keith Anderson, Dylan Walker and Trevor Alibozek (3rd grade)

Something new for this year, the graduates were proud to present a new slide presentation composed of 10 pictures of their life from infancy forward set to a song chosen by them. At the end of each student’s presentation they walked up to receive their diploma from Superintendent Dr. John Berry, the School Committee and Mrs. Senecal.
Good Luck 5th Graders! Click on the photo gallery to see pictures from the event. by Julie Pavia Feel free to comment underneath the picures if you wish you will see a comment button. http://www.savoynews.smugmug.com/

The Annual Town Meeting held at the fire station on Wednesday, June 8th was a lively and well attended affair. Voters are finally beginning to get the message that they are the ones who run this town and how much of a difference can be made by attending town meetings and expressing their opinions by the way they vote. Fifty-seven (57) registered voters out of a current total of 486, questioned, debated, opposed or approved the twenty-four (24) articles on the warrant. In the end, all articles passed, although some with a good deal of discussion from the floor.

A determined Marshall Rosenthal insisted the RIGHT TO FARM BY-LAW was unnessary. Nine (9) others voted with him against the article, but the majority was in favor and the article passed. Voters did not object to budget approval of general government expenses which had an increase of $1,875.00 in total, but the reinstatement of an Assistant Town Clerk position with an annual compensation figure at $500 was questioned by Robert Herrmann. A great deal of interest in the Highway expenses and the $17,152.40 increase produced a request by Gale Carlow to amend the article to show 'hourly pay and vacation, personal and sick days' figures be reduced from the 10% to a 2 1/2% raise. Moderator, Eric Krutiak, asked the voters if the article should be amended and the answer was no. Voters approved the article as written by a majority (11 opposed).

A number of questions were put to the Select Board about the use and misuse of the Stabilization Fund account generated by the transfer of $27,280.00 to the FY06 Highway Road Maintenance Account. Sandra Brazee (Treasurer), Emile Mazur (Select Board Chair), and Sue McGrath (Tax Collector, Office Mgr), all did their best to explain how the money in this account is used. The article (#4) passed with the two/thirds majority necessary, although a number of voters did not vote on this article. The vote was 9 NO to 29 YES.

Article 23 initiated an unusually long discussion on the transfer of $30,000 from the FREE CASH account to the Highway STRAP account. Questions ranged from why the town had to put the money aside before needed and how residents in the Brier were going to be able to get down to Main Road. Peter Kelleher, Selectman, clarified the transfer as "wiggle money", an amount that would be immediately available when needed to get the project underway. Included in the response by Emile Mazur was a rather confusing, but lengthy talk on the habitat of the lizard, evidently a problem in the planned culvert project. You learn a lot at these town meetings.

A few articles needed amending because of typing errors, but nothing remarkable was required. The meeting began promptly at 7PM and adjourned at 8:55PM. Before the close of the meeting, the Select Board asked the Moderator to introduce the idea of possibly changing the day of the annual town meeting to a Saturday. The Moderator expressed his reluctance to address the issue before he had a chance to check the legality of the move, but Mr. Mazur wanted the reaction of the voters that were there to see if he should persue the idea. A 'trial period' of 2 years was suggested by Mr. Mazur before an attempt to change the town by-law which states the meeting is to be held the first Tuesday in May. This particular group of voters did not appear to be in favor of such a change. by Town Clerk

Since there were approximately 57 residents at the Annual Town Meeting, Wednesday, June 8, I want to share my notes.

There was a discussion about reinstating the position of Assistant Town Clerk. The Town had an Assistant Town Clerk until 2001. The Town Clerk position is an elected position. The Assistant Town Clerk is an appointed position. Jane Phinney, Town Clerk, stated her position is for 8 hours a week at minimum wage. Jane said from September to May she is working between 10 to 16 hours and times are hectic. She would rather have less hours and not more pay. “I am getting older and don’t know how long I will stay Town Clerk”.

Eric Krutiak, Moderator, asked Emile if the Finance Committee presented the Select Board with a balanced budget. Emile responded ‘yes’. Emile stated the budget had $11,000 surplus and used some of the money to subsidize the Highway Department hourly pay. “This will not raise the tax rate at all”. The Finance Committee differed with the Select Board on the increase for the Highway Department. The Finance Committee wanted to give all town employees a 2.5% raise. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) would be used for increases in the future. The Select Board did not agree and wanted a 10% increase for the hourly wage per man for the Highway Department. The Highway Department has not had a raise in two years. There was a motion to amend the article which failed. Emile said the 2.5% would not bring the Highway Department salaries in line with surrounding towns; but the 10% was a good start. Emile did not have the supporting documentation available used to reach the 10% increase. (The towns reviewed were Peru, Windsor, Worthington and Florida) The documentation was available at the office and since it is public record is available for review. Sandy Brazee asked why other town employees did not get an increase. Dick Holmes said they did not ask. Increases were budgeted for positions that requested an increase.

There was an issue about taking money from the Stabilization Fund to support snow and ice. A question was asked how much money would be left if money is taken from the Fund. Emile did not have the balance. Sandy Brazee stated that $50,000 for the Town Park was going back into the Fund. The town did not get the grant for town park so the money was returned. Emile said taking from the Stabilization Fund is not the best way but to keep the town operating there was no other way. The override failed last year so there are few avenues to keep the town running and not raise taxes. “Not to go into the 21st Century but to stay in the 19th Century”, Emile’s opinion as a taxpayer. Emile said the town is at the point of going into receivership. If there is not enough money in the Stabilization to float a bond, the State can come in and put the town in receivership.
Emile said it is his understanding the State will look the other way as long as there is enough money to pay bills. The problem Savoy has is the State land. Savoy use to get money but the State changed procedures and decided that money should be distributed according to population. Boston gets $85 million while Savoy gets $23,000. Emile further explained that Hancock is the flagship for the State’s attempt to change how they determine money paid for State property. The State is trying to cut down on the frontage which will reduce their financial responsibility to the town.

Sandy Totter, representing Savoy on the Northern Berkshire Solid Waste, told the Select Board the money for this line item (N. Berk. Solid Waste) was short $190.35. She said payments can be made quarterly after July 1. The Finance Committee can remedy this at any time, an amendment was not necessary.

The Police Safety Salary was reduced by $2,000.00. Steve Dean explained this was the result of one officer being out on medical leave and a cruiser being down. Steve wants the Police Department to be self-sufficient and the only way that can happen is to have the cruiser on the road. The question was asked if we will be safer. Steve said there will be less patrol hours (approximately a 40% decrease).

Sandy Totter asked about the $5200 for the fire truck. Emile felt this was not the time to address this issue. This issue will be addressed at the Special Town Meeting at the end of the year. Sandy Brazee explained “since this is a Capital Expense, it must be voted on by the townspeople unless there is a grant. Capital Expenses are guided by the Massachusetts General Laws.”

The Town received a one-time grant from the State for $10,707.00. This money was transferred to the Fire Department Engine 1 Repair Account.

After listening to all the explanations, I agree with Emile this is complicated to follow. It would help us, townspeople, if the Select Board and Finance Committee took the time to hold an informational meeting to explain to us the process of the budget. Have an informational meeting independent of the Annual Town Meeting. It would be easier to make decisions at the Annual Town Meeting if I knew how the budget was developed, what goes into the line items, where the money comes from to support the articles. I would be more inclined to support an override vote if the Select Board and Finance Committee had the time to answer our questions.
by Brenda Smith

I attended the Select Board meeting Tuesday, June 7. Emile read a resignation letter from Tom Decker, Dog Officer. Mr. Decker resigned for personal reasons relating to his health. Emile asked Alan Haskins if he would be interested in the position. Alan said he would fill the position. The Select Board agreed and will appoint Alan as the Dog Officer.

Emile asked Peter to contact the individual from Clarksburg who might be interested in the position of Town Administrator. The Select Board needs to know what salary is expected. Peter will get back to the Select Board with the information.

Richard Krutiak, Fire Chief, and several members of the Fire Department attended the meeting to present the Select Board a petition regarding the payment for the 1983 Mack truck. The petition would place an Article on the warrant for the Special Town Meeting at the end of June. The minutes from the April 5 Select Board meeting relating to this issue were read. Alan Haskins verbally approved the purchase, but Peter and Emile were not aware of the approval. The bill for the truck is approximately $3032.00 for repairs, $1500.00 for purchase and $375.00 for man bars (required for safety).

Emile said there might be a possible way not to have to go through all this. “I may have enough money”. The petition will not have to be placed on the warrant if monies are available. If money is not available, the funds would have to come from the Stabilization Fund or approval by the Town to raise taxes. Emile and Sue have been working to try and find monies to transfer at the end of the year. The transfer of money would appear on the warrant for the townspeople approval. Emile said we want to discuss this matter and not fight. We want the truck and will try to get this situation resolved.

The petition now goes to the Town Clerk. She has to verify that all the signers are registered voters. The Select Board must then present the petition to the town counsel to make sure that the wording is correct before it can placed on the Special Town Meeting warrant if necessary.

While the Select Board is trying to sort out this situation, so am I. I am still unclear as to how this breakdown in communication occurred. Emile was in the hospital during the time this Mack truck situation developed. Mr. Krutiak was talking to his liaison, Alan Haskins. I know from the April 5 Select Board meeting that was a discussion about this matter. Will further dialog about this matter be forthcoming when the remaining Select Board minutes are read?

Rita will begin interviews for the selection of ‘accountant’, Thursday, June 16. There are six candidates for this process.

The fence for the NOAA weather station has been approved. The weather station is generating data. The town will link its website with the weather station.

Minutes from past Select Board meetings that Stephanie has transcribed will be read at the next Select Board meeting. Before Select Board meeting minutes can be entered into the official record, they must be read publicly. Stephanie said there were a lot of minutes; Emile agreed.

Select Board meetings will go to a summertime schedule June 30. They will meet every other week until the end of August. Meeting dates are as follows: July 5, July 19, August 2, August 16 and
August 30. by Brenda Smith

I stopped into the Hilltop Colonial Inn to visit with the new owners Brian Carlo and Ron Boody. Located just over the line in Plainfield on Route 116, we have all been seeing the major renovations that have been taking place for almost two years. To say it was a 'major' overhaul is an understatement. Brian told me that the only thing left of the old building was the clock that hangs behind the bar! (yes, the clock is in our photo gallery along with many other pictures, click on the link below).
The new Hilltop is beautiful with vaulted ceilings, oak and cherry hardwood floors throughout, stone fireplace, pool table, and their prized 25 foot+ bar top of Brazilian cherry, white oak and maple. There are new tiled bathrooms, plus 6 televisions and a jukebox.
Ron tells me that the renovations took 1 year 9 months and 4 days to be exact. Their initial opening was the first weekend of March. Ron and Brian did all the carpentry work themselves. Mountain View Painters, Morehouse Electrical, Adams Plumbing and Stanley Lumber also provided services. Jeff Ziter Masonry of Savoy constructed the beautiful stone fireplace. Many have donated the items that hang high on the walls. Phil Reeves of Savoy donated two very old chainsaws. They were his fathers. Brian said they started hanging some things on the walls and people responded by donating. A full kitchen and dining/banquet area is already in the works for the near future. Right now their dining area serves pizza and hotdogs along with a full bar. Wednesdays are single elimination pool leagues (with #1 ranked Don Phinney of Savoy playing), and twice a month they have live rock/blues bands.
So, drop in, say 'hi' and check out the new Hilltop. Hours are: Friday Noon- 1:00am Saturday Noon-1:00am Sunday Noon- 10:00pm Wed & Thur 4:00pm-10:00pm.
Click on the underlined link here for the Photo Gallery www.savoynews.smugmug.com

The Select Board meeting for May 31, 2005. The Select Board meeting was quiet and uneventful. Just reading of the minutes from the last meeting and a little new buiness.

Town clerk hours for the summer months, June to August 2005, are Tuesday and Thursday from 1pm to 5pm. She will not have Saturday hours.

The possibility of a Town Admnistrator is being looked into. A Town Administrator would help the town get monies for projects through grants. The Administrator would, also, research for available grants and write the grants. The position would be an appointed position.

Clarity was shed on the issue of the purchase of the 1983 Mack Truck Pumper. Although Allen Haskins had approved the purchase, the matter had not come before the entire Select Board for approval. The purchase of the Mack truck pumper is approximately $3000. The Town has paid approximately $1500 toward repair of the truck. Since the Select Board did not have the opportunity to ask the Town to approve monies for the purchase of the truck, the Fire Department will have to make arrangements with Fleetmasters, Inc. to pay for the truck or return it.

NOAA weather station has been completed. Hopefully a fence will be in place around the station next week. The Select Board had presented a proposal for the fence.

The Highway Department garage is in poor shape. The garage needs doors, septic system, drinkable water and showers. The Select Board needs to have a structural engineer assess the building and determine the soundness of the structure. There will be no state funds available this year to help defray costs of a new building for the Highway Department.