The Town of Northwood, New Hampshire

Selectman Bryer welcomed the re-elected Selectman Ken Witham and also welcomed the newly elected Selectman Doug Shaffer. Mr. Bryer explained the previous practice of electing a chair of the board.

Organization of the new Board of Selectmen

Selectman Bryer explained the process of the selectmen meetings and that motions should be seconded before discussion occurs. Selectman Witham challenged Mr. Bryer’s recommendation. Mr. Bryer explained that formal procedure would be to make a motion and second for discussion then a vote would be called. Mr. Witham stated that the hammer is coming down and he believes that no discussion is needed if there is a majority vote. Ms. Beaulieu and Mr. Bryer explained that Mr. Witham is mistaken and that there is no additional power or authority given to the chairman, the process would be to encourage formal votes and to have a motion on the table that would need to be seconded for discussion if there was a need for discussion.

**Motion**

Selectman Witham motioned to appoint Selectman Bryer as Chairman due to the fact that Mr. Witham has only served on the board for about six months and Mr. Shaffer is beginning his first term. Seconded by Selectman Shaffer. Motion passed 2-0-1. Selectman Bryer abstained.

**Motion**

Selectman Witham motioned to appoint himself as Vice-Chairman to act as chair in Mr. Bryer’s absence. Seconded by Chairman Bryer and made unanimous by Selectman Shaffer.

Selectman Bryer announced that the board members must make new nominations for board/committee liaisons.

**Motion**

Selectman Witham motioned to nominate Douglas Shaffer as the liaison of the Highway Advisory Committee. Seconded by Chairman Bryer and made unanimous by Selectman Shaffer. Motion passed 3-0.

**Motion**

Chairman Bryer motioned to nominate Douglas Shaffer as liaison to the Lamprey Regional Cooperative. Seconded by Selectman Witham and made unanimous by Selectman Shaffer. Motion passed 3-0.

**Motion**

Selectman Witham motioned to volunteer to be the liaison for the Planning Board. Selectman Shaffer seconded and Chairman Bryer made unanimous 3-0. Motion passed 3-0.

Ms. Beaulieu stated that the next position is for the Cable Advisory Committee. She explained that the last chairman wanted to be on this committee and does not feel that there must be a liaison to this committee at this time. However, it is at the board’s discretion. Selectman Witham and Selectman Shaffer do not feel it is necessary to participate on this committee. Chairman Bryer stated that due to the upcoming technology and the plans to televise meetings, he feels that there should be a liaison. Ms. Beaulieu explained where the process of the cable coordinator is at this time as she understood it from the previous board. The board agreed that they would like to have the selectmen meetings televised as quickly as possible.

**Motion**

Selectman Shaffer nominated Selectman Witham to act as liaison to the cable committee for a six month term. Seconded by Chairman Bryer and made unanimous by Selectman Witham. Motion passed 3-0.

Selectman Witham stated that he feels it would be a huge asset to the town to have the selectmen meetings televised in lieu of what they are faced with during the coming year. The board agreed that televising would be beneficial to the townspeople.

The board discussed the RSA requirements for drafts of meeting minutes. Ms. Beaulieu explained that according to state statute there must be a draft of the meeting minutes available to the public within 144 hours. Selectman Shaffer stated that he was bothered that some minutes are not available online months after a meeting. Ms. Beaulieu explained that she is sure the drafts are complete; however, some of the boards only meet on a monthly basis and would not be approving minutes until the following meeting which would seem late due to the fact that they only meet once per month. Selectman Shaffer stated that the draft minutes should be on the website with a notice that they are only drafts. Chairman Bryer called the meeting back to order and asked that the board finish nominations for liaisons and continue this conversation afterward.

Ms. Beaulieu stated that the next committee is the budget committee.

Chairman Bryer offered to act as liaison to the budget committee. Mr. Bryer explained that when a representative to the Board of Selectmen is acting as liaison, they must represent the opinions of the whole board of selectmen not act on their own personal feelings or judgments when discussing the town budget. Ms. Beaulieu stated that it is very important that the selectman rep. vote on behalf of the board of selectmen as a whole and not based on personal thoughts. She also explained that before the rep attends the budget committee meetings to discuss town budget she will ask the selectmen during a meeting to formally vote on each warrant article and each department budget so that the rep knows where the board stands. Selectman Witham stated that he believes that if there is a member of the public present during a budget committee meeting, they should be recognized and allowed to speak and he feels that this is something that has to be addressed to the budget committee. He stated that is the most disgusting thing he has seen when someone has a question. Selectman Shaffer stated that the Chairman of the Budget Committee should never have asked the selectmen to leave the meeting and that it was against the law. Ms. Beaulieu explained that actions against the budget committee could have been taken as a citizen; however not by the board of selectmen as the budget committee is governed by RSA.

**Motion**

Selectman Witham motioned to nominate Chairman Bryer as the liaison to the budget committee. Seconded by Selectman Shaffer and made unanimous by Chairman Bryer. Motion passed 3-0.

Ms. Beaulieu stated that all board and committees that had liaisons in the past are fulfilled at this time unless the board would like to serve on additional committees. The board agreed that they had no additional interests at this time. Ms. Beaulieu welcomed Selectman Witham to the planning board and gave him a binder of information and informed him that the next planning board meeting is scheduled for Thursday after the meeting with the selectmen.

Selectman Witham recommended that the selectmen be allowed to submit their comments before the Town Administrator report as he feels there are some hot items. Chairman Bryer feels that the Town Administrator may bring up items referencing the operating budget which is what Mr. Witham feels is a hot item.

Roll Call

Present: Chairman Scott R. Bryer, Selectman Ken Witham, Selectman Douglas Shaffer

Citizen Forum

Chairman Bryer called for public comment. Mr. Jim Hadley was present to update the board on the elderly housing project and USA Springs. Mr. Hadley also informed the board that in 2001 he attended the Selectmen’s Institute on one Saturday for six months, and he strongly recommends that the new selectmen attend. He stated that the training covers areas of public relations, budgeting, planning, teamwork, etc. Ms. Beaulieu informed the board that she has requested a handbook for the Selectmen and has also looked into receiving information pertaining to the Selectman Institute. The board discussed hiring a separate institute like UNH, Southern NH University, etc. to perform a government structure of the town. Mr. Hadley will email information to the Town Administrator.

Town Administrator Report

Ms. Beaulieu informed the board that she needs direction as to how this new board would like her to implement this budget that just passed at town meeting. Ms. Beaulieu would like permission from the board to process the budget exactly as passed by the people at town meeting or are there items that the board is planning to make adjustments to. Selectman Witham stated that he would like to make big time adjustments. Ms. Beaulieu explained that she needs to have direction for the departments. She further explained that departments are used to being able to spend up to $2,500 with her signature any amount over that amount the selectmen would sign. She would like to make sure that she has direction as to how the selectmen want the budget processed. Chairman Bryer asked if the board is in agreement to giving the employees a 4.1% COLA increase as approved by the previous board.

**Motion**

Selectman Witham motioned to give all employees and elected officials a 4.1% COLA increase as he promised to the employees previously. Seconded by Selectman Shaffer and made unanimous by Chairman Bryer. Motion passed 3-0.

Chairman Bryer questioned the board if the would like the pay raise retroactive to January 1, 2006 as practiced by the board in the past or make them effective for the next pay period. Ms. Beaulieu was asked by Selectman Shaffer which employees would be getting a step and COLA. Ms. Beaulieu explained it would be easier to mention the few employees at the end of the steps and would only receive COLA. All other employees are not at the top of their pay scale and will receive a 4.1% COLA as well as a 3% merit increase. Chairman Bryer explained that the Police Department and the Library Employees are governed by other bodies; therefore, any changes in salary increases by the selectmen will only affect the Fire Department, Highway Department, Transfer Station and the town hall departments. Ms. Beaulieu explained that the board of selectmen about four years ago implemented the wage plan due to the fact that employees would continue to receive increases and the board at that time felt that there should be a limit. Selectman Witham recommended that the exact cost factors should be obtained before this is voted on. He would also like to know how much cash they are actually talking between the employees that are eligible for the 7.1% increase, and he wants this for each department. Chairman Bryer reminded Mr. Witham that they just approved the 4.1% COLA increase earlier in the meeting; however, if he would like to re-discuss he would allow it. Selectman Witham stated that they have to put the binders on, and this is a big issue with him. He explained that the reason this is a big issue is because there isn’t a soul living in this town that he knows of that is out there working forty hours a week and has the magnitude of this raise and he is dead against it. He wants to see actual numbers of how much of an increase this will give each individual employee. Ms. Beaulieu confirmed that the board would like multiple spreadsheets as to each employee receiving a 4.1% COLA increase, one showing employees receiving a 3% increase and another showing the total 7.1% increase. Ms. Beaulieu stated that 4 employees out of approximately 36 positions will not receive a step increase of 3% as they are at a step 10 which is the highest the plan goes at this time. Ms. Beaulieu stated that the total amount was given to Mr. Witham during the budget process earlier. Ms. Beaulieu stated that because the employees are on a wage plan it is not in the selectmen’s best interest to discriminate against single employees. She explained that they should give raises to everyone or no one. Ms. Beaulieu explained the spreadsheet to Mr. Witham and showed him that the total payroll cost for all wage plan employees including the merit increase and COLA for 2006 is $961,168.

Ms. Beaulieu informed Mr. Shaffer that she would provide him with copies of the spreadsheets as received by the previous board members. Mr. Shaffer feels that there are some things that need to be taken care of and sometimes difficult decisions must be made.

**Motion**

Selectmen Witham motioned to re-consider his decision made earlier to give employees a 4.1% COLA increase and discuss further at the next meeting and to discuss the retroactive pay at the next meeting. Seconded by Selectman Shaffer. Chairman Bryer explained that if the board agrees to not process retroactive pay, this will only be implemented to employees within the selectmen’s jurisdiction which does not include the police department and library employees. Chairman Bryer made the vote unanimous. Motion passed 3-0.

Selectman Shaffer questioned why the town provides the library employees with benefits etc., but the town has no authority over the library employees. Ms. Beaulieu explained the she is only informing them of the RSA’s, and that the town is fiscal agents over the entire town other than the library and police department. Mr. Bryer explained that the Police Commission has been granted permission to sign purchase orders for the police department and that is a courtesy that is extended to the commission from the Board of Selectmen. If there is a capital article, the board continues to approve spending of those articles.

Selectman Shaffer agreed that the more efficient the town is, the better. He feels that many people that showed up at town meeting should have showed up at some of the selectmen’s meetings and perhaps would have understood the process better.

Ms. Beaulieu stated that per counsels opinion which would be forthcoming, she needs to know what the board approves for expenditures from the new budget. She explained that the board does not have the authority to remove the new employment position for the library or the planner for the planning board per discussion with town counsel, which will be sending documentation in writing for the board’s review. The positions that need discussion tonight are the full time recreation director and the part time building inspector secretary. Ms. Beaulieu explained that she feels strongly that the building department secretary position is needed due to the increase in ordinances. She also informed the board that the planning board feels they may be able to hire a planner for $24,000 rather than $35,000. Selectman Witham stated that because of the planning board ordinances the town is spending additional funds. Ms. Beaulieu informed the board that if they do not hire a part time secretary for the building department, they will likely spend more in legal fees as the ordinances are hard to enforce due to consistent changes. Ms. Beaulieu informed the board that although they are planning board ordinances, it is the responsibility of the selectmen to enforce the ordinances accurately.

Selectman Shaffer stated that he feels that there are too many ordinances to vote on and feels that people are not reading them and understanding them during voting process. Selectman Witham stated that he believes the clear issue tonight is that the town understands the impact of what it costs for these ordinances. He is seeing a $53,000 increase, a new building inspector needs to be added, etc. and he feels that the town will have more lawsuits and he would like to let the games begin. The board agreed that they would not make a decision on this position at this time.

Recreation Director Position

Selectman Shaffer motioned to discuss the recreation director as full time. Seconded by Selectman Witham. Selectman Shaffer suggested that the Coe-Brown Academy students must do community services, and they could staff the beaches. Ms. Beaulieu informed that they have tried this previously and did not receive a lot of interest. Chairman Bryer explained that the town has tried many routes to fulfill a summer recreation position and has not been successful. This year was the first year that it ran good and townspeople have expressed a big interest in a full time recreation program. Ms. Beaulieu suggested that if the board feels they do not want to support a full time position that the recreation director be permitted to work additional hours to open the beaches earlier. Selectman Witham stated that he would like to squash every new position on the budget; however sacrifices will need to be made. Ms. Beaulieu informed the board that there is a parks and recreation revolving fund established, and if they would like the people to pay for the programs it could be set up so that fees are high enough to cover the programs and the salary of the recreation department. Ms.

Beaulieu stated that if the fees are assessed accurately the programs should pay for themselves. Selectman Witham stated that the families can not afford higher fees. Selectman Witham suggested that the board agree to keep the current part time recreation director and not move to full time. Selectman Witham suggested that the cost in hiring a part time building inspector be made up from sacrifices within town hall. Chairman Bryer stated that the reason he supported the parks and recreation position is that in order to have a good program it will need a coordinator. If the position is removed he would strongly suggest removing the rest of the recreation. Selectman Witham stated that the biggest volunteer base for this town is the parents of the children. Ms. Beaulieu explained the many problems experienced in the past without supervision of the lifeguards. Chairman Bryer stated that the current parks and recreation employee is doing a great job and it would be a loss to lose him; however, it is a decision to be made by the board. Selectman Witham asked that this be voted on next week.

**Motion**

Selectman Shaffer stated that he would like to make the decision for the new positions next week as he does not have enough information to vote either way. Chairman Bryer seconded and Selectman Witham made unanimous. Motion passed 3-0.

The board requested that the department heads be informed that no hiring is to take place until the board meets next Tuesday. Ms. Beaulieu confirmed that everything other than the items discussed this evening can be processed from within the budget. Chairman Bryer questioned why the planning board would need to have funds in their budget for a water study when all the information is available at the State. Ms. Beaulieu suggested that the planning board budget be discussed next week. Ms. Beaulieu again asked for approval to expend from the budget other than items already discussed.

7:15 Conservation Commission

Steve Roy, Conservation Commission Chairman.

Last month the Johnsons attended CC meeting and are interested in a conservation Easement for Johnson’s field behind the restaurant. He feels that this is an important parcel due to attachment by townspeople. An appraisal of property would need to be done and then a purchase price for development rights would be agreed upon by the town and Mr. and Mrs. Johnson. This would prevent development on the fields. Mr. Roy would like to know if the town is interested in this easement. Selectman Witham questioned the cost of the appraisal. Mr. Roy confirmed that it would cost $2,000 to $5,000 for the appraisal that would come from the conservation land fund. Mr. Roy stated that the reason the cost is high for the appraisal is because there will be two appraisals done, one for the land and/building as it is now, and one for the land with the easement criteria. There should not be any change in the property taxes for the property. Mr. Roy explained that the name of the program is the Farm and Ranch Land Protection Program and there is a timeline associated. There is a 45 day window after announcement to meet criteria. Therefore, they will need to meet with the appraiser immediately so that value can be determined to begin negotiations with the Johnson family. The board requested that they be updated as to the negotiations. The selectmen agreed that the support this program.

Selectman Bryer announced a five minute recess.

7:30 p.m. Road Agent - Posting of Weight Limits

Mr. Wilson asked for clarification as to exceptions for road posting due to the possibility of road damage. Chairman Bryer asked why an exception would be made if heavy equipment is damaging the roads. He feels that an ad should be posted in the paper informing of the road posting. Mr. Wilson stated that the road conditions change with the weather and he has been allowing exceptions when weather permits. Chairman Bryer feels that once the roads are posted there should be no exceptions as selective exceptions could give the wrong impression. Mr. Wilson requested direction as to how the board would like the posting of roads implemented. Ms. Beaulieu explained that there is confusion because during the last meeting the board gave permission to post the roads, an individual visited town hall requesting to travel a posted road and was instructed that a bond had to be set according the town ordinance, and was informed that this policy is consistent. She was under the impression that once the road was posted, everyone had to submit a bond; however, later that day there were a few others that were permitted to travel the road without a bond. Ms. Beaulieu explained that she has to research previous town meeting minutes to find what ordinance were voted in at town meeting, but that the previous boards have changed the way the Road Agent implements the road posting. Selectman Witham feels that the postings will be ignored eventually. Selectman Shaffer feels that once the postings are made, there should be no exceptions made and also questioned which roads were being posted and if it was necessary. Chairman Bryer feels that there should be no exceptions once the roads are posted. Selectman Witham stated that the Road Agent should send companies with overweight vehicles to the town hall for paperwork so that they can submit a bond. The board agreed that the bond amount will remain at $5,000 until January when the Road Agent will meet with the board again to discuss. The Town Administrator will have the agreement signed by the board at their meeting on Tuesday evening. Starting immediately there will be no exceptions made once the roads have been posted.

**Motion**

Selectman Shaffer motioned the question as discussed. Seconded by Selectman Witham and made unanimous by Chairman Bryer. Motion passed 3-0.

Consent Calendar

Selectman Bryer explained the process for the consent calendar. Selectman Witham stated that he had a question for the appointment for Lucy Edwards to the Cable Advisory Committee as recommended by the committee chairman and wanted to know why the appointment was completed. Ms. Beaulieu explained that all appointment requests are processed by the Administrative Assistant who prepares the appointment for the Board of Selectmen to sign during their meeting. The Selectmen need to review all appointments and decide to sign the appointment or deny. The Board of Selectmen decide if they wish to take action on any item on the consent calendar then they must motion to remove the item from the consent calendar. She explained that since the board only meets twice a month it is much for time effective to process this way. Selectman Witham stated that the appointment for Lucy Edwards is out of the question and was agreed by Selectman Shaffer. Selectman Witham stated that he did not see Ms. Edwards at the school board hearings or at town meeting, he feels that she put the board in a very embarrassing situation during town meeting. Mr. Witham stated that if she wants to share part of this committee or anything she owes the biggest apology of anyone that he has ever seen in this town. Selectman Shaffer agreed. Chairman Bryer stated Lucy Edwards and Pete Jones have been volunteering to keep the website updated, which has been free for the town. Mr. Bryer suggested that the board re-consider their statement as Ms.

Edwards has provided many free services for the town and although they may not agree with certain things, he does not feel she should be alienated. Selectman Witham stated that he does not even understand why someone would think that way in lieu of what they have been put through. He has never felt so humiliated in his life over a foolish election. Ms. Beaulieu asked if any of the board members would be interested in updating the webpage. Mr. Bryer feels that if the town had to pay someone to update the website it would cost about $3,000-$5,000 per year. Selectman Witham asked if Mr. Jones threatened to quit if Ms. Edwards was not assisting. Ms. Beaulieu explained that Mr. Jones was contacted to verify his intentions of continuing to update the website and was informed that after elections he was thinking about not continuing to volunteer, with no reference made to Lucy Edwards. Ms. Beaulieu contacted Lucy Edwards regarding the return of office keys and was informed at that time that she would continue to update the website as a volunteer for the town. Selectman Witham believes that a public apology is necessary from Lucy Edwards for a personal email that was made public. Selectman Shaffer stated that although they have a resident that wants to volunteer, that person has clearly shown that they are not a team player, that they should not participate in the town and if other people quit because of that, so be it. You are either on the bus for the town and the community, no matter what it takes, or you’re off the bus. Selectman Bryer stated that it is clear how the other board members feel and asked that the issue come to rest. Selectman Shaffer stated that the selectmen need to put on notice they do not have an agenda, and that they are all going to have to make decisions that they do not agree with. He feels that it is obvious that this person has an agenda, it is unfortunate. Ms. Beaulieu asked the board what direction she should give staff for information that needs to be uploaded to the website. Is the board offering this position on a volunteer basis to a new person or as a hired position? Selectman Witham stated that either volunteer or a hired paid position is agreeable to him. Selectman Bryer suggested that they keep in mind that the board is trying to keep the budget low and if this going to be a hired position than funds will need to be cut from somewhere else in the budget. Selectman Witham stated that he understands this, and that the Town Administrator should contact Mr. Jones to see if he is still interested since Lucy Edwards will not be volunteering. If he is not interested, then advertise requesting two volunteers to do the web hosting and updating. Ms. Beaulieu stated that it is her job to do what the board directs and she would like to know what the board would like staff to do with information for the website, if there is no one updating the website. Selectman Witham stated that he can live with some of the things that were said by Lucy Edwards but the personal comments were not needed. Ms. Beaulieu informed Selectman Witham that she is not concerned with his choices; she only needs to have direction from the board. Selectman Shaffer stated that if Mr. Jones states that he is not interested, than the advertisement should go out immediately for one or two volunteer depending on what Mr. Jones decides, then if no interest is received than the position should be offered to a contractor. Selectman Witham agreed to the process. Ms. Beaulieu confirmed that this process could take 4 to 5 weeks and in the meantime, if Mr. Jones is not interested, employees should not forward any new information for the website. The board agreed that an advertisement should be put out immediately for a contractor and to contact web service companies to obtain a cost. Selectman Bryer stated that his brother is in the website business if the board is interested, although he can not vote due to a conflict of interest. The board agreed to have Scott Bryer approach his brother for an interim position. Ms. Beaulieu confirmed that an advertisement would be placed as soon as possible for a contracted position for updating and hosting the town website at a cost to the town, and the board does not want to offer this to volunteers. Ms.Beaulieu questioned which fund these expenses would be paid from. The board agreed that once the prices are received they would discuss. The board recognizes that this might cost about $10,000.

Chairman Bryer stated that appointments were approved during a meeting with the previous board members and should be re-addressed by the current board. He thought that since there was a new board, they would like to reconsider the appointments. Chairman Bryer announced the appointments: Jean Lane as alternate to Zoning Board of Adjustments; Selectman Witham explained that the Zoning Board of Adjustments met with the selectmen earlier to request that Andrea Korson be appointed to the Zoning Board and that Jean Lane would retire from the board. Andrea Korson has been appointed and Jean Lane’s appointment will expire on March 31, 2006, Ms. Lane has requested to be re-appointed. The board agreed that they would not re-appoint Jean Lane to the zoning board. Roy Pender, Zoning Board; the board agreed to appoint. Don Evans, Animal Control Officer; Selectman Witham stated that he would like to know why the town is paying $21,000 for a dog catcher. Selectman Witham offered the position to a member of the public at the meeting for $16,000. Chairman Bryer stated that the town is in a contract with the Town of Deerfield and he feels they made a commitment to the Town of Deerfield and feels that it is fair to Deerfield that this be re-addressed next year. Selectman Witham feels that this position is overpaid. The board agreed that this year the appointment be honored and research possibilities next year. Selectman Witham disagreed.

The board approved Bruce Farr’s appointment to the Zoning Board of Adjustment Chairman Bryer stated that the previous board approved an appointment for Marion Knox to the Highway Advisory Committee. Selectman Witham would like to discuss. Selectman Witham would like to discuss this further at the next meeting. Selectman Shaffer agreed. Chairman Bryer requested the appointment be re-typed and presented at the next meeting.

**Motion**

Selectman Shaffer motioned to table the appointment to re-consider the appointment made last week for Marion Knox for the Highway Advisory Committee until next week, so that he has the chance to review information about the committee as he has newly been appointed to the committee as a selectman representative. Seconded by Selectman Witham. Chairman Bryer voted opposed as he has already voted in favor last week. Motion passed 2-1.

Loren O’Neil, Conservation Commission appointment: The board agreed

Northwood Septage Lagoon Contract

Selectman Witham questioned the application from DL Docko for the septage lagoon. Ms. Beaulieu explained the septage vendor process. Selectman Witham stated that there are problems developing in town and that there may be too much septage being dumped. Ms. Beaulieu stated that the board can not discriminate against certain companies. She explained the verification process and that the municipal receptionist can verify the amount of septage that is being dumped at the lagoon. Selectman Witham feels that it is necessary that the municipal receptionist verify.

**Motion**

Selectman Witham motioned to approve the consent calendar as amended. Seconded by Selectman Shaffer. Made unanimous by Chairman Bryer. Motion passed 3-0.

**Motion**

Selectman Shaffer motioned to approve the blanket purchase order for $5500 from the expendable trust fund to Round Pond Soil Survey for lagoon monitoring. Seconded by Selectman Witham and made unanimous by Chairman Bryer. Motion passed 3-0.

**Motion**

Selectman Shaffer motioned to approve the payment of $16.39 to Rockingham County Registry of Deeds from fund 200 as a CDBG payment for the recording of a deed for SNHS. Seconded by Selectman Witham and made unanimous by Chairman Bryer. Motion passed 3-0.

Minutes:

Public: 1/24/06, 2/14/06, 2/23/06 public hearing, 3/1/06

Town Administrator Report Continued

Eastern Mountain Sports

Ms. Beaulieu informed the board that Eastern Mountain Sports would like to do a boat demonstration at Northwood Lake on June 4, 2006. Selectman Shaffer confirmed that motor boats would not be demonstrated; Chairman Bryer stated that the boats are kayaks.

**Motion**

Selectman Shaffer motioned to approve that Eastern Mountain Sports do a boat demonstration at Northwood Lake on June 4, 2006. Seconded by Selectman Witham. Made unanimous by Chairman Bryer. Motion passed 3-0.

Draft Position Briefing Packets

Ms. Beaulieu informed the board members that included in their packet are a draft position briefing packet that was submitted to Mr. Bryer from Bob Young, Emergency Management Director. Mr. Bryer recommended that the board members review the information. Ms. Beaulieu reminded the board that they scheduled Mr. Young as part of their next meeting agenda. Selectman Witham feels that the Town of Northwood should spray for mosquitoes. Ms. Beaulieu informed the board that Bob Young and Don Arsenault did not request to include additional funds in the budget for this, and that they may have another solution. The board agreed to discuss this at the next meeting with Bob Young.

A Hard Road to Travel Seminar

Ms. Beaulieu explained the purpose of this seminar on May 9, 2006 in Somersworth. Chairman Bryer suggested that Selectman Shaffer attend. Mr. Shaffer agreed and explained that Monday and Tuesday are difficult days for him, however, he would be interested.

Request to Waive Ambulance Billing

Ms. Beaulieu informed the board that she received three requests to waive ambulance fees due to hardship. The amounts are $462, $1221, $468. Selectman Shaffer asked for the process to be explained. Chairman Bryer explained the process and asked that the board make decisions with care and would like a copy of the individual’s most current tax return. Ms. Beaulieu asked the board if they would like to set up criteria for the staff to collect when submitting the requests. The board discussed their options and agrees that their needs to be criteria so that the board can assist those that are in need and should be reviewed on a case by case situation. Selectman Bryer requested that the requesting individuals supply the board with additional information. The board agreed to table until next Tuesday meeting. The board agreed to review the policy and make changes where they seem fit and to include Kevin Madison with the discussion. Ms. Beaulieu will provide copies of the policy at the next meeting and schedule Kevin Madison on the agenda.

Route 4 Signs Discussion

Ms. Beaulieu stated that Rocky Magoon had submitted a request for removal of street signs on Route 4 which was previously discussed by the board at the two previous meetings. Ms. Beaulieu asked the board if they decided to remove the signs per Mr. Magoon’s request. After discussion, the board agreed that the signs for Route 107 should be moved.

**Motion**

Selectman Shaffer motioned to allow Selectmen Witham to submit a list of road signs to be removed/relocated to the Administrative Assistant for processing a letter of request to the NH Department of Transportation. Seconded by Selectman Witham and made unanimous by Chairman Bryer. Motion passed 3-0.

Medical Resource Hospital Agreement

Mr. Madison submitted an agreement between the town and the Concord Hospital as due each five years. Selectman Bryer agreed to sign but requested that a letter be sent to George Ashford informing him that he is sick of having documents given to them for signatures last minute with no time to review or ask questions. Selectman Bryer noticed that Concord Hospital did not sign the form until March 6, 2006. Selectman Shaffer requested that the letter to Mr. Ashford ask that the board receive appropriate notice, when possible, to review documents.

**Motion**

Selectmen Witham granted Chairman Bryer permission to sign the Concord Hospital (medial resource) agreement on behalf of the board. Seconded by Selectman Shaffer. Vote passed 2-0-1.

CDBG – SNHS Paperwork

**Motion**

Selectman Shaffer motioned to approve Chairman Scott Bryer signs the authorization to submit payment requests on the CDBG for Southern NH Housing. Seconded by Selectman Witham and made unanimous by Chairman Bryer. Motion passed 3-0.

2000 Local Official Workshop

Ms. Beaulieu gave information to Selectman Shaffer.

Chairman Bryer asked if the board had any items to discuss in executive session.

Non-Public Session RSA 91-A:3,II (a,c,e,)

**Motion**

9:58 p.m. Chairman Bryer motioned enter non public session under RSA 91-A:3,II (a,c,e). Seconded by Selectman Witham and made unanimous by Selectman Shaffer. Motion passed 3-0.

**Motion**

10:15 p.m. Chairman Bryer motioned to exit non public session and seal the non public minutes of 3-21-06. Seconded by Selectman Witham and made unanimous by Selectman Shaffer. Motion passed 3-0.

The following items were discussed in non-public session:

Contractual Negotiations

**Motion**

Selectman Shaffer motioned to contract with Pervis and Associates for assessing services in the amount of $45,000 per year for a three year contract. Selectman Witham seconded. Selectman Shaffer would like an escape clause added. Motion Passed 3-0.

Selectman Witham recommended that the Board of Selectmen include SB2 (rsa 40:13) on the ballot for 2007 Town Meeting. Chairman Bryer recommended speaking with town counsel first.

**Motion**

Selectman Witham voted in favor of including SB2 on the ballot at 2007 town meeting after consultation with town attorney. Seconded by Selectman Shaffer and unanimous by Chairman Bryer. Motion passed 3-0.

**Motion**

Selectman Shaffer voted in favor of requesting the planning board limit the amount of zoning amendments on the ballot. Seconded by Selectman Witham for discussion. Chairman Bryer recommended that this issue be discussed with the planning board during their joint meeting on Thursday. Motion passed 3-0.

**Motion**

10:25 p.m. Selectman Witham motioned to adjourn. Seconded by Selectman Shaffer and made unanimous by Chairman Bryer 3-0.

Respectfully submitted,

Jessi Leavitt

Administrative Assistant

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