The Annual Town Election will have only five (5) names on the ballot although there are twelve (12) open seats. Nomination papers were handed in and certified for the following candidates: For Selectman, 3 year term - John Tynan. For Planning Board - 1 year term - Thomas Sadin. For Tax Collector, 3 year term - Susan McGrath. For Town Clerk, 3 year term - Jane Phinney. For School Committee, 3 year term - Chris Andersen.
All candidates are incumbents except Mr. Tynan who is running for the first time.
The offices of : Assessor, Moderator, Park Commission, Two (2) Planning Board seats, and Treasurer remain without candidates.

A second mailing of the census was recently sent out to almost sixty households that did not respond to the first mailing. The census is a required survey of Massachusetts residents and is sent out annually. The information towns are able to collect from this yearly project give the Commonwealth the necessary facts to help assess the state aid each community is entitled to, what grants are available because of the population of the town, aid to schools for programs and grant applications, and many other funding projects. For those residents who consider the annual census not worth the bother to respond to, consider this; without state aid the only revenue the town would have would be our taxes. The importance of the annual census (also called the street list) cannot be stressed enough.

Dog licenses will be past due in April. All dogs are required to be licensed in the town of Savoy annually. A valid rabies certificate of vaccination must exist before a license can be issued. Licenses can be requested by mail. During the month of April the office of the Town Clerk will stay open Tuesday evenings from 7 to 9, Saturday mornings from 10 to noon and regular hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 5PM. The Town Clerk can be reached at 743-3759 during the above mentioned hours or leave a message and your call will be returned. Late fees will be imposed on all dog owners who have not requested licenses for their pets by the end of the month. The late fees are $1 for each dog for each week after April 30th. from the Town Clerk.

Cummington Lions Club is going to be selling Easter Lilies, April 8th, 9th, and 15th in Savoy at the Savoy Hollow General Store, Plainfield at the Town Hall, Cummington at the old Apple Storage on Route 9, and Goshen on Route 9 across from the church. There will be many colors to choose. Lion Alice Liebenow

Select Board Meeting March 14, 2006:
Chad was not present.
Joe has sent out the Transfer Station’s "Waste Ban Compliance Plan" to the DEP. The sign at the Transfer Station has to be updated. Joe is working with Sandy Totter of N.B.S.W.D. to get a new sign before July 1, when the new Waste Ban Regulations go into effect. This basically states we (the Town of Savoy) will not accept wood, concrete and brick at the Transfer Station.
The Teacher’s Union came to the meeting to discuss the possibility of health insurance for teachers when they retire. Chapter 32B M.G.L. would allow a portion of the insurance to be paid by the Town. The teachers asked for a 50% payment from the Town. The retiree would receive insurance until the age for collecting Social Security benefits. Savoy is one of only four towns in the Commonwealth that does not provide health insurance for retired teachers. Daniel Wilk spoke for the teachers. Beth Cote was also in attendance for the School Board. Beth Cote said it will be difficult to hire replacement teachers because other towns provide health insurance retirement packages for their teachers. There are 2-3 teachers that will be retiring in the next few years. Mr. Wilk will get information for the Select Board as to the cost; and the minimum years a teacher would have to work to retire and receive this benefit. This would have to be approved by the Town and be part of the School Budget.
Emile read a letter from the Berkshire County Sheriff’s Communications Center (470 Channel, Police and Fire Department). The Town is a part of this Communications Center and has been paying their part in to participate. The bill for FY2007 is $6,454.42. This is about a 150% increase to help pay for their new operations.
The Finance Committee Meeting, Saturday, March 18, will meet with the Highway Department.
***
The Select Board has received a letter from Sayers’ Auto Wrecking that they would like to help the town in efforts of cleaning up "junk cars". They will pay $25.00 and up for vehicles that are complete in town. They will need a title from the owner. If the owner does not have a title, they can make out a bill of sale and have it notarized.
Owner’s, who are interested, need to contact Sayer’s Auto Wrecking at 413-443-1635 to make arrangements for pickup.

From Select Board minutes of February 7, 2006:
Steve Dean attend the class for the hearing officer and was sworn in tonight.
Joe is still working on the DEP’s Waste Ban Compliance Plans and noted that the sign that is posted at the Transfer Station will have to be updated before July 1, 2006.
Chad reported on the sand costs and the possibility of hauling some sand ourselves next year, which may be cheaper. The possibility of buying the equipment to treat our own salt will cut our salt costs in half.
The Mass Emergency Management meeting was held on March 2. Emile read the minutes of the meeting. Dave Maisonneaue has set up some training for March 27.
Emile reported that FEMA has informed Savoy that we will receive $75,761.81 for storm damage payments.
The Select Board and Ms. Isabell Harwood received a letter from Mass Department of Revenue stating that she needs to attend a course title, "Department of Revenue Class 101", or she will not be allowed to continue on the Assessor’s Board. This course is a minimum requirement established by 830 Code of Mass Regs (CMR) 58.3.1.
The Select Board reviewed the Savoy Community Development Strategy and made appropriate changes. Sue will retype and send to Tom Webb at the Berkshire Housing.

Alice Liebenow has provided the following for your consideration.

Dear Lions, Lioness, Leos and Friends
Mass Eye & Ear Infirmary (MEEI) has become a sponsor of our International Convention in Boston. We regularly give money to MEEI through Mass Lions Eye Research Fund, Inc. (MLERFI).
There is a press release I have received regarding this sponsorship. You can use the link below to get the document. While this press release covers how MEEI became a sponsor because of a donation by someone else (MEEI cannot use their money for this kind of expenditure), it also talks about the needs of the convention.
It gives a good overview of the move of the Convention to Boston and will provide you with more information about the move in clear and concise words. Please take the time to read it! You really, really should read this: Mass. Eye and Ear Infirmary Supports Lions Convention Effort.
The press release is also available by way of a link from our announcements page: International Convention in Boston which I have just updated. You can also download the volunteer form, an FAQ, and click to an online volunteer form from the announcement.
Thank You, Dennis Waller, District 33Y Webmaster, Mar. 8, 2006

FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING
The Finance Committee met Saturday, March 4 at the Town Hall. The Committee members John D’Alessandro, Allen Carlow, Sue McGrath, Thomas Marshall and John Tynan were in attendance. John Tynan was elected as the Chair. Thomas Marshall was elected as the secretary. The Select Board was represented by Emile Mazur. Don Phinney attended as an observer.
Fire Chief Kevin Krutiak and fireman Corey McGrath presented their proposal for the Fire Department Budget. Chief Krutiak stated increases were the result of the actual economy increases. The Fire Department applies for grants to take the burden off the town; but there are purchases that grants don’t cover. The fire department has ladders that are over 25 years old and need to be replaced.
Points that Chief Krutiak brought before the Finance Committee:
The engines are required to be tested every three years to receive certification. Oil is changed once a year. If used more during the year, maybe twice. General maintenance is determined by hours used. Trucks deteriorate with less usage. Every four years, brakes need replacement. Brakes are not replaced all at once but per axle. Goal is to replace 2 tires per year. Since Savoy has a Volunteer Fire Department, tire prices are decent. Supplies are needed for general body repair on trucks. Air pack bottle testing is due.
Mr. D’Alessandro asked what was the status of the tires; number of tires needed to be replaced? Mr. Krutiak responded one truck needs eight tires costing approximately $3200.
Mr. Marshall requested Mr. Krutiak come up with a priority list for the department. He, also, requested the department come up with a 5-year plan. Where does the department want to be in five years?
Chief Krutiak said the department received $12,000 from Homeland Security. The grant is specific as to what items can be purchased.
There was a discussion about the use of foam versus water. Chief Krutiak said 500 gallons of foam reacts on fires as 900 gallons of water; water cools fires, foam smothers fires.
There is a need for one suit of turnout gear at a cost of $2100. Each suit is fitted for the individual. An ‘extraction coat’ is needed for use by EMT responding to auto accidents.
The department has a ‘Fire Prevention Grant’. The grant will be used to purchase kits to educate the children in the Savoy School about fire prevention.
Chief Krutiak has more paperwork to complete. Grants require every purchase be tracked, as well as the status of current equipment. The Fire Department is applying for grants for a majority of their equipment. Chief Krutiak stated getting a grant to update trucks was limited. Grants are based on the number of runs and population. Savoy like most small towns do not meet the minimum requirements.
There was an overwhelming agreement the safety of the fire department personnel was their first priority in setting the list of items needed to update outdated equipment.
Mr. Marshall said he has no problem going over 2 ½ to get the town where it needs to go.
Mr. Carlow said the town takes in just so much money. Priorities have to be set for the town; direct how money is dispersed.
Mrs. McGrath pointed out the town is living on what is being taken in. She said money comes in the form of taxes, from the State (Cherry Sheet), and fees. The next Finance Committee Meeting is scheduled for March 18 at 10 AM. by Brenda Smith

SELECT BOARD MEETING HIGHLIGHTS
I was not able to three of the Select Board meeting. I have reviewed the minutes from the meetings and will highlight the main points the Select Board discussed.
January 24, 2006
- Ray LaBonte reported that the snow and ice budget is overdrawn and expects that we will be from $50,000.00 - $55,000.00 short this year.
- Mr. Marshall from Griffin Hill Road came to the Select Board with concerns about the present by-law about plowing across town roads. He would like to change the by-law. Jim Sadlow said he believes the by-law should not be changed.
- Joe Bettis bought up the possibility of starting a revolving account for the Transfer Station.
January 31, 2006
- Mr. Marshall has submitted a new by-law proposal on allowing people to plow on public roads. The Board voted unanimously not to accept this. Emile will notify him by mail of the decision.
- Ray LaBonte is to meet on February 8 with F.E.M.A. to discuss the roads again.
Select Board member Emile Mazur is working on getting a grant through the USDA to build a new Highway Department Garage. The grant would give Savoy 65%, and the Town would have to come up with the remaining 35%.
- A bid was sent out for computers for the police station and treasurer.
- Beverly Cooper would like to outsource the payroll. The Select Board agreed. The majority of her time as treasurer is spent on payroll. Jay Berry, superintendent of schools has agreed. This will be worked on. Beverly would, also, like to upgrade her software.
- Patric Reame from the Berkshire Eagle asked about the Town’s plans on ‘discontinuance of roads’ in Savoy. (Information: the article was published in the Berkshire Eagle under "Editorial" on February 3.)
February 7, 2006
- A Municipal Hearing Officer has to be appointed who can hear local appeals for citations issued by the fire department or building department. The Select Board will try to find a volunteer for this position. The individual will have to attend training on March 1 in Amherst. (Steve Dean has been selected to fill this position.
- The Select Board is looking to work on the highway department’s union contract before the end of February. The Select Board will meet with Ray LaBonte on Wednesday, February 8, to discuss his contract.
- Althea Maynard resigned as the Chair of the Council on Aging. Jane Phinney would like to take this position. The Select Board will work on this.
- Emile discussed the insurance increase required by the State for the $500,000.00 premium for the Fire Department. MIIA can increase our coverage from the current $50,000.00 to $100,000.00 premium. MIIA is checking with another insurance company to pick up the $400,000.00 and get back to the Select Board with a quote.
February 14, 2006
- Joe submitted the (DARP) - D.E.P. approved recycling program paperwork. It will be renewed through 2008. Joe is working on the D.E.P. Report for Waste Ban Compliance for the Transfer Station.
- The Mass Highway Payment Voucher for Strap Grant #459903 in the amount of $339,678.21 for the Chapel Road Culvert Project has been sent to the State Aid Section in Boson.
February 22, 2006
- The Strap Grant has been received. Emile said this will go to pay off the outstanding bills and loan for the project.
- Joe Bettis reported 142 stickers have been purchased by residents to use the Transfer Station. - Ray LaBonte is compiling the footage for roads that are being considered for termination of discontinuance of maintenance.
- Emile has applied to the Skin Cancer Program for 150 educational brochures to be placed at the Town Office, Library, and Senior Center.
- Joe is working on the Waste Ban Plan . The Plan is due April 1. The Town will place a sign at the Transfer Station that informs the public what can be accepted, along with prohibited items. by Brenda Smith

FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING
The Finance Committee met Saturday, February 18 at the Town Hall for their first 2006 budget meeting. The Committee members are John D’Alessandro, Allen Carlow, Sue McGrath, Thomas Marshall and John Tynan. John Tynan was not able to attend this meeting. The Select Board; Emile Mazur, Chad Wagenknecht and Joe Bettis were in attendance as observers. They were cooperative when questions came up that they could provide information. Sue explained there has to be a secretary to record the minutes. With the absence of John Tynan, the committee members decided to wait to elect a chair person and secretary until the full committee is in attendance. Sue explained to the Committee when requests for budget increases involved her positions, she would step aside on the budget vote so there would be no conflict.
What are the duties of the Finance Committee? The committee was provided a sheet with the duties of the committee which I am providing for information.
"The main responsibility of the committee is to be a resource body on budgeting and finance procedures.
Purpose: The board is responsible for consulting with the Select Board on the annual budget process, for reviewing and making recommendations.
The Finance Committee members, each of whom shall be free from any relationship that, in the opinion of the Select Board, would interfere with the exercise of his or her independent judgment as a member of the committee.
Scope: In accomplishing its assigned responsibilities, the Finance Committee will undertake the following listed duties and such matters within its responsibilities as may warrant its attention.
1. Assist the Select Board in carrying out his or her responsibilities under Article XI, section 4 of the bylaws with respect to preparation and presentation of the annual budget to the Select Board.
2. Facilitate the annual budget process, including recommendations to the Select Board on appointment of the consultative budget group.
3. In consultation with the Select Board, establish such budget tracking and reporting standards as are appropriate to the needs of the Committee and the Select Board.
4. Review the annual budget and make specific recommendations to the Select Board on its adoption, including where desirable, comments on expense levels, revenue structures, fees and charges, adequacy of proposed funding levels of programs, and adequacy of provision of reserves.
5. Undertake a review, at least annually, of the long range financial objectives of the corporation and their ability to sustain the corporation and the accomplishments of its stated mission and programs. Report to the Select Board annually on such objectives, including recommendations for revision as appropriate.
What does all this mean to the Finance Committee members? They make recommendations for a final budget to present to the Select Board. The Select Board does not have to accept their recommendations and can send the budget back with their changes. If the Finance Committee and the Select Board reach an agreement, there is a finalized budget. No agreement, the Select Board can present their budget at the annual town meeting. Although this has happened before, the Finance Committee and the Select Board seem to be cooperative at their first meeting. The Finance Committee members can answer questions at the Annual Town Meeting. All budget items must be approved by a majority vote by the finance committee members."
Since John Tynan was absent and there was no secretary, the Finance Committee and Select Board discussed general items; where the town monies come from for the budget, how to use free cash, the state of the stabilization fund and the general fund.
Thomas Marshall talked about ‘volunteerism’. He questioned why citizens could not volunteer to help the highway department plow the roads. He felt the town should be seeking ways to cut costs and needs to be innovative with coming up with new and unexplored ideas. (At a previous Select Board meeting, this issue was brought up for discussion. The question of the town’s liability was one of the primary concerns. The Select Board didn’t think the town could afford to have residents out on the roads doing the highway department’s job because of liability.)
The largest expense for the town is always the school and highway department. This year, the fire department’s account will be a challenge for the Finance Committee and Select Board. The State has mandated that all Fire Departments have their insurance increased to $500,000.00. Mr. Marshall suggested the town actively seek bids from insurance companies.
The Select Board is seeking a 4% wage increase for the highway department union employees . They are concerned about the stabilization fund and the small amount left in the account. When FEMA reimburses the town for monies spent repairing roads from the October rains, these monies will need to go to the emergency account for repairing roads. Once the road repairs are completed, the remaining money, if any, would go back to the stabilization fund. The stabilization account should provide money for emergency funding. Mr. Mazur said when he started the account had $300,000.00. There is $60,000.00 left in the account now after funding repairs for the road repairs in October. Mr. Wagenknecht said he considers the Stabilization Account to be a ‘rainy day fund’ to be used for unexpected purchases to keep the town running.
There was a brief discussion about taking wages out of the ‘snow and ice’ account. Mr. Wagenknecht explained the highway department union employees cannot receive "compensation" time and overtime. He said it is against the law.
The Select Board believes moving wages from the snow and ice account will provide a better understanding of the financial picture of the town. Mr. Wagenknecht further explained the town can never go to the State when a ‘State of Emergency’ occurs for reimbursement on these occasions since the wages are rolled into the snow and ice account. The town can be reimbursed if all wages for the highway department are in the line item wages.
Mr. Mazur explained to the members that the Select Board has to go to the town every year for transfer of funds to cover the overdrawn the snow and ice account. The price for sand and salt continually increases. Mr. Marshall asked if there was a better way to get lower prices for sand and salt. Mr. Mazur responded it was a county bid. The town was purchasing the sand and salt at prices as low as the town could purchase.
The next Finance Committee meeting will be held Saturday, March 4, at 10 A.M. Residents of the town are encouraged to attend these meetings to find out prior to the Annual Town Meeting how the budget is developed.

(My personal reflection from attending Select Board meetings and the first Finance Committee meeting. I understand the town employees needing a raise. Trying to balance what the town needs in tax increases and what income I have to support the town is a balancing act that each of us faces. When I receive a 2% wage increase before taxes, I have to ask myself if my portion of the tax burden equals my 2% after taxes. If not, where will I come up with the money. All of us have a ‘rainy day fund’. My ‘rainy day fund’ is my savings account. I don’t know about you, but I have had to tap my ‘rainy day fund’ just to keep up with the increase in electricity, heating fuel, and gas prices for my vehicle. The select board has these same concerns for keeping the town viable. Having come from a union background like many of the residents, I know each of us knows and understands the importance of being paid for the work we perform. I, also, know that unions can make wage demands that will cause the residents to ask what is fair. I expect the Select Board to represent me in their negotiations and demand a fair wage increase. It will be difficult to reach an increase percentage that will please all of us, but compromises are what the union and Select Board are all about. The Select Board has to balance what the union requests and the townspeople can afford without dipping into the Stabilization Fund. Last year the tax rate went down and the valuation of our homes went up. Did you see an increase in you property tax?
If you have issues about the budget, don’t wait until the Annual Town Meeting; attend a Select Board meeting or Finance Committee Meeting to see how the budget is being formulated. I have been surprised to attend ATMs and see support for overrides and then have the proposition voted down when we go to the ballot box. The vote at the ATM is not for the override, but to get the issue to a ballot vote. It takes a two-thirds majority to pass an override and get it to a ballot . At the ballot vote, we vote for or against the override. It is expensive to have a special vote and have it turned down. I understand attendees not wanting to vote against an override ballot at the ATM. I am also reluctant because I don’t want fellow residents and the Select Board to see my hand go up against an override ballot. I do have mixed feelings, just as you, because all residents should have a vote on this critical issue. If more residents attended the ATM, maybe we would all feel comfortable expressing our concern and standing up when we voted. At the very least if we voted for an override ballot, we would all have a better indication of how the ballot vote would turn out. Mr. Mazur is not running for another term. He will complete his current term in May. I would like to offer this blog as an opportunity for anyone considering running for Mr. Mazur’s position and any vacancy to write information about yourself. Why you want the position; what qualifies you for the position; and why the residents should vote for you.
There are a number of new residents in town. We don’t know you. The usual way to get elected to a position in town is to get your family, friends and their friends; to vote for you. Give us all a chance to make a decision as to who is best to represent the town. This town is in a serious situation. We don’t want to be taken over by the State by being put into receivership. There are towns in this State that have been put in this position because they do not have sufficient funds to operate.
Chad Wagenknecht and Joe Bettis have been diligent in learning their position as Select Board members. With Mr. Mazur leaving, they will need the townspeople support. Hopefully, the person who runs for Mr. Mazur’s vacancy will complement them.
If you are interested in learning more about either Savoy or other towns, check out the following web site www.Mass.gov. After you have gotten on the site, go to the section for Online Services (orange heading) and select (More). Scroll down until you come to the heading Local Government, scroll under Local Government and select DLS Municipal DataBank. You select the town you want to research. I have to thank my co-worker for making me aware of this information. by Brenda Smith

Spring must be almost here as plans for the Annual Town Election are underway at the Town Clerk's office. Nomination papers are available from the Town Clerk and can be picked up during the week on Tuesday and Thursday between 1 and 5, Tuesday evening from 7 to 9 and on Saturday morning from 10 to noon. Candidates running for office must secure at least twenty (20) signatures of certified registered voters of the town by Tuesday, March 21st in order to have their names appear on the ballot. The last day to pick up nomination papers is Friday, March 17th. The following seats are up for re-election this year:
SELECTMAN (1) 3 YEAR TERM
ASSESSOR (1) 3 YEAR TERM
MODERATOR (1) 1 YEAR TERM
PARK COMMISSION (1) 3 YEAR TERM
THREE (3) PLANNING BOARD OPENINGS: 1 YEAR, 3 YEAR, and 5 YEAR TERMS
TAX COLLECTOR 3 YEAR TERM
TOWN CLERK 3 YEAR TERM
TREASURER 3 YEAR TERM
SCHOOL COMMITTEE 3 YEAR TERM
CEMETERY COMMISSION 3 YEAR TERM
For information on the above positions, call the Town Clerk at 743-3759 during office hours or leave a message and she will get back to you.
......from the Town Clerk

The Savoy Elementary School staff will be participating in the Relay For Life at Noel Field in North Adams on May 19th and 20th in honor of fellow teacher, Karen Fuller. Donations are being accepted and can be left at the Town Office during office hours and at the store and school. Luminaria (candle lanterns) bearing the name and message of your choice of someone you are remembering or honoring are also available by filling out the "Light The Way With Hope" form and enclosing it in the envelope provided with $5 for each luminaria. Checks should be made out to the American Cancer Society. Cash or checks will be accepted.

A Craft and Tag Sale will be held on Saturday, February 25th, from 9AM to 3PM at the Senior Center on Main Road. Collectibles, hand-made items, knick-knacks, and household treasures will be offered for sale. Proceeds from the sale will go to the Savoy Senior Citizens Club. Anyone wishing to donate items for the sale can bring them to the Senior Citizens' building on Tuesday and Thursday from 1 to 5PM. from the Seniors

The Savoy Volunteer Fire Department is sponsoring a rabies clinic for Monday, March 6th from 5 to 6PM at the Fire Station on Center Road. Dr. Beebee will be doing the vaccinating. Dogs and cats in Massachusetts are required to be vaccinated against the rabies virus. Dogs must also be licensed. The Town Clerk will schedule office hours at the town office to accommodate dog owners who wish to get the license that night. The town office will be open during the time the clinic is operating and up to an hour after it closes. Pet owners are asked to leash their dogs or place them in a secure crate or pet carrier while at the clinic. from Town Clerk

Returns of the annual census have been slow. This information is vitally important to the town and residents are asked to please send the completed form back to the Town Clerk as soon as possible. Included in this year's mailing was a questionnaire from the Agricultural Commission. A stamped return addressed envelope was also included for convenience in mailing the forms back. If there is not enough response to the first mailing, a second will have to take place. It is an expensive project for the Town Clerk in both cost and time. Please see that you have complied with the request to mail this information back to the Clerk. Your cooperation will be appreciated.

Dog licensing for 2006 is well underway and all dog owners are urged to apply for their pet's annual license before the final rush in April. Proof of a valid rabies vaccination is required for a license to be issued. Licenses can be requested by mail. A late fee will be charged dog owners for each dog unlicensed for each week past April 30th. The Town Clerk's office is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 5PM, Tuesday evenings from 7 to 9PM and on Saturday mornings from 10AM to Noon. For additional information you can call the Town Clerk at 743-3759 during the above mentioned hours. from the Town Clerk

The street listing or census will be arriving at Savoy households this week, ( January 16th). This annual process is necessary to keep information about the town and its population up to date. The town is able to determine the amount of aid it needs from the state through the information from the census. Residents are asked to please check the form, make any corrections, sign the document, and return it in the stamped addressed envelope as soon as possible. It is very important that all children in your household are listed on the form as well as others living with you. Aid to the schools, programs and grants, depend on this information. This is also the time of year that dog owners are reminded that dog licensing for 2006 has begun and will run through April 30th. All dogs, six months or older, residing in Savoy, require an annual license. All dogs and cats in Massachusetts must be vaccinated against the rabies virus, but only dogs in town need to be licensed. Dog tags can be issued only with proof of a valid rabies certificate. Included in the census mailing is information regarding the cost of fees, the kinds of licenses available and the Town Clerk's hours. Dog tags can be requested by mail. Each year the Town Clerk's office and the Fire Department try to arrange a local rabies clinic to help residents get their dogs vaccinated. As soon as information is available it will be posted.

Also included in the mailing this year is a questionnaire from the Savoy Agricultural Commission. Residents are asked to fill out the form and return it with the census in the envelope provided for your convenience.

Stickers are now available at the Town Office for use at the Transfer Station. The cost of an annual sticker for your motor vehicle is $35, plus $2 for each additional vehicle's sticker. Stickers can be purchased from the Town Clerk's office on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 1 to 5PM. They are also available each week-day, Monday through Friday from 9AM to 1PM from the Office Manager, and on Tuesday evenings between 7 and 9PM. All vehicles will require a sticker beginning February 14th. Orange trash bags marked with the name of the town are still required and can be purchased at the Transfer Station. (Bags are not available at the Town Office.) from the Town Clerk

Select Board meeting Tuesday, January 3, 2006 was attended by all select board members. Joe gave a report on the Transfer Station. Sale of stickers is going smoothly.

Chad reported on progress with the highway department on the issue of discontinuance of maintenance of roads. The procedure will be for Ray to submit a list of roads for consideration of discontinuance of maintenance. The Select Board will agree on which roads should be considered. After the decision, the roads will be advertised in a local newspaper, a notice will be posted for 14 days, and abutters will be notified by mail. An informational meeting will be scheduled. The final decision for discontinuance of roads will be made by the Select Board.

Chief Steve Dean reported that ‘hunting and fishing licenses’ will no longer be available in Savoy. He has only had a few requests. The required paperwork by the state agency to support the continuance of offering these licenses in Savoy is not cost effective. Residents have been purchasing their licenses at other businesses.

The Select Board will begin working on the Annual Budget this month. The Finance Committee is expected to being this process in February.

NOTICE: The Town of Savoy is looking to fill a position for a part-time appointed Dog Officer. This position would be on an "as needed" basis. For more information or to receive an application, stop by at a Select Board Tuesday night meeting at 7 PM at the Senior Center, 720 Main Road. by Brenda Smith

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