The Savoy Mountain News

2008-01-02T12:04:00.001-05:00

As a resident of Savoy, I've often asked if there were potential benefits of harnessing wind energy in Savoy since we seem to have allot of it. Being in the field of education as long as I have(31 years), I know our children are learning about alternative renewable energy in a big way in our science classes. They know that where there is wind, water, sun and soil, there is the potential of farming renewable energy. Do we not claim to be a right to farm community? In my school where I work, children are building solar cars. The fact is: Our young people are our countries most valuable renewable resource. We must nurture them and build our community for them as well.
So when it comes to our town exploring the benefits of exploring alternative renewable energy resources , we need to be thinking of our future not our past! Our children are living with the mistakes we have made. IE dependency on foreign oil and fossil fuels to generate electricity. Savoy residents in the past also have not taken advantage state monies that would have covered nearly 87% of the cost of building a new school. What a tragic mistake especially when we see how much building costs have increased in the years since.

When folks threaten to not retire here in Savoy because they don't want embrace alternative energy initiatives, they need to ask themselves: why? If they were living here full time they would see first hand how our services are being stretched under such a limited a limited tax base. They would see that the beauty they actually enjoy is also a resource that benefit our whole town including our children. Alan Carlow and the Savoy recreation commission would like to have a year round recreation center yet we have not the tax base to build it and staff it. The truth is these services that we are cutting are the very services that we need to be expanding. It's no secret to our community leaders that we never receive the full tax benefit of the state owned land in our town but do appreciate the environmental benefits. I guess it's a partnership that needs to be improved; not abandoned! We in Savoy can benefit from all sorts of renewable energy projects including hydropower and solar. It's this partnership with our future that I believe Savoy needs to embrace if we are to think and act forward rather than backward. JFK said it right when said "Ask not what your country can do for you but ask what you can do for country(our community!"

When folks resort to scare tactics by sending an unsigned letter to voters claiming that state resources will be lost and that our town will have to hire more police and fire protection WITHOUT FACTS OR A RATIONAL, They do our community a disservice. There is something about signing a letter that contributes to any discussion of public issues . Mr. McClanahan would find it hard to argue his points to our children who see the benefits of wind power. You see their view is based on what's been prov-en. There is money to be made and foreign oil to be saved when we think forward and harness wind energy and other forms of renewable energy. That is why I will vote in favor of the Malloy alternative energy proposal because it puts action behind our words "we CAN become energy self sufficient!

Sincerely;

Tom Marshall
Griffin Hill

2007-12-30T12:08:00.000-05:00

At the Select Board Meeting of December 18, 2007, Don McCauley, President, Minuteman Wind LLC gave a presentation on the estimate of property taxes that would be paid to the Town. Mr. McCauley cautioned the Board and those in attendance in presentation was a concept and would need a bylaw to know total costs.

Below is the letter Mr. McCauley provided to those in attendance.

"You have asked Minuteman Wind LLC to provide you with an estimate of the property taxes that would be paid by Minuteman once it begins operation of its proposed wind powered electric generating plant on West Hill off of Harwood Road.

This letter and the accompanying model will, we hope, provide information for the Board of Selectmen regarding the complex issues concerning property taxation for electric generating plants. We stress that this letter is only a discussion of the issues. The actual determination of valuation will depend on multiple factors, many of which Minuteman Wind will only be able to determine as it proceeds with detailed project design and implementation.

Property Taxes

Under the Electric Restructuring Act adopted by Massachusetts in 1997, electric generating plants are to be valued for property tax purposes based on market valuation, the same process used for other commercial and residential properties. This valuation is difficult for electric plants, however, because there is a limited history of comparable projects on which to develop the market valuation. In the absence of such a market, we are advised that assessors look primarily to the cash flow of the project to develop an estimate of value.

The accompanying model gives an overview of the cash flow of the project. It is a very simplified overview, but because of its simplicity perhaps it will provide a better view of the drivers of valuation. The project will have two principal sources of revenues: electricity sales and renewable energy certificate sales. The project will not have fuel costs, but will have various other operating expenses, including rent, insurance, planned maintenance, reserves for unscheduled maintenance, and administrative costs.

These revenues less operating expenses result in the net operating revenues (also referred to as cash available for debt service) for the project. This is the cash flow that will be used by assessors in valuing the project for property tax purposes. Critical issues in determining value will be the determination of the appropriate discount rate.

The model assumes prices of $.06/kwh for electric energy and $.04/kwh for RECs. It also assumes a discount rate of 12.5%. Based on these numbers, the project’s value will be approximately $22,000,000. This value will stay relatively constant until the last years of the project when the value will decline. At a tax rate of $10 per $1000, this would result in property taxes of approximately $220,000 per year. While these are ball park figures for planning, actual numbers will not be determined until Minuteman is able to proceed with the detailed planning of the project, assuming of course that the Town’s zoning bylaw is amended to allow Minuteman to proceed with a special permit application.

The projected value of approximately $22,000,000 is comparable to the expected cost of construction, so that a cost based approach will yield a comparable valuation. Again, these numbers are rough estimates and are based on estimates developed earlier in the project process. The cost of turbines is escalating significantly, and there are many costs, such as road improvements, which need much more definition.

Since the project represents new growth in property value for Savoy, it would increase the tax base of the town and increase permitted revenues under Proposition 2 1/2. The increased revenues could also be able to be used by the town to reduce the overall tax rate.

PILOT Agreements

As an alternative to property tax assessment and collection, towns are permitted to enter into long term PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreements with electric generating plants. A PILOT agreement would specify the amount payable to the Town each year, which would be comparable to the property tax amount and could include an agreed escalator. It would avoid potential disputes as to valuation and save the town the additional periodic cost of engaging an expert to complete a property valuation of the electric generating plant. It would also avoid volatility in tax revenue as market prices for electricity and RECs change over time. Minuteman strongly believes that a PILOT agreement is the appropriate way to proceed and would want to enter into a PILOT agreement with the Town.

Additional Issues

You should note that the cash available for debt services which will be used as the basis for valuation does not represent the value of the project to Minuteman. Minuteman will use these funds to pay back loans and other financing necessary to pay for the cost of constructing the project.

Another issue that will need to be addressed is the proper treatment of the decommissioning fund and its impact on the value of the project. In the model, we have assumed that the decommissioning fund will be an expense in the first year. This is a placeholder, until we negotiate the nature of the decommissioning fund and determine its proper accounting treatment. It is just included here as a reminder that, while it is a necessary obligation of Minuteman, it is a true cost of the project that will impact the project’s value.

We hope that this information is helpful to you in understanding the project, but, again, we must caution the Board that these are estimates and subject to change as Minuteman proceeds into more detailed project analysis.

We look forward to discussing the matter further with you, and hope for your support of the citizens’ petition submitted by Mr. Malloy." end of letter

Mr. Tom Marshall asked the Select Board members where they stood on the issue.

Mr. Bettis stated he is personally for it. "I am a very green person, wind is free, sustainable, this project is doable. It’s not my call, it’s the town’s call."

Mr. Tynan stated he would like to see it happen, "but, we have to listen to everyone in town. My personal opinion, I don’t really care about windmills."
Mr. Koczela said he liked the idea, but he was also thinking about the people who live in the area and how it would impact them. "We are facing a huge debt right now, our override didn’t pass, we are cleaning out all of our reserves, taxes are going to keep going up. Are we going to wait for the State to keep handing out money to us and we keep going in the hole." He stated the monies may help to stabilize the town and provide money for new highway equipment, fire equipment, and possibly drop taxes in the future. "It is very, very tempting."

Mr. Bettis stated it is part of the Select Board’s job to try and get new revenue, and there is not much of a way to do that in this town.
By Brenda Smith

(Editor’s note: The Select Board meeting was tape recorded. If anyone in Savoy would like to hear the hour long discussion with Mr. McCauley and the Select Board, the recording will be available until Wednesday, January 2, 2008. The Special Town Meeting to vote on the bylaw is Thursday, January 3 at 7PM at the Fire Station.)

2007-12-26T15:26:00.000-05:00

Money is the Carrot, Here’s the Stick.

Pretty is as pretty does. If power from wind made any sense, it might strike some balance between its production value and its downsides.

Wind doesn’t blow enough or dependably. The usual energy generators must consistently back up wind turbine generators. The construction costs per turbine are several million dollars subsidized by taxpayers. Getting energy from wind is a fool’s wasteful errand. Consumers will pay more for energy.

Two centuries ago, steam replaced wind power in the whaling industry eliminating weeks at sea without a breeze, the “doldrums”. What do we get? We get a higher electric bill, very little energy and as much or more CO2.

What expenses would $220K cover in Savoy? That income would reduce the State’s grants to Savoy by $100K for its lottery money shares and aid to the school. And after various costs of added full-time police, firefighters, road workers and maintenance, what is left? Hardly anything.

Property values will decrease causing a tax burden shift. Health risks go up due to very short setback distances of houses from turbines. The World Health Organi-zation sets a safe setback at a mile and a half. Is the town prepared for lawsuits?

What assurances are given that Savoy will see the money? Other towns across the country report they have been shortchanged. Developers are in it for the money only, not the energy.

Savoy’s Town Clerk reports that there are no firm money assurances from the developer Minuteman Wind, no signed contract not even a handshake.

$220K is an unfounded figure. It is the carrot, the stick is to trick Savoy into a very destructive deal: financial, environmental, as well as aesthetic ruin. The pot at rainbow’s end has a hole in it.

Preston McClanahan
Savoy, MA

2007-12-21T14:45:00.000-05:00

A MESSAGE FROM THE TOWN CLERK:
I am writing this article in response to a deluge of phone calls to my home and the Town Clerk’s office concerning a report in the North Adams Transcript.

On Wednesday, January 3rd, residents will be asked to consider accepting or rejecting a bylaw that addresses the wind tower project on West Hill. This is the first of two bylaws that have been submitted to the town for approval by the voters. Townspeople are understandably confused with this two bylaw situation and have been given the additional burden of trying to sort the misinformation from the facts. On December 19th, an article appeared in the Transcript stating that the developer of the wind power project, Minuteman Wind, LLC, had offered the town $220,000 annually "in the form of a payment in lieu of taxes if its proposed wind farm is approved for a special permit by the Zoning Board of Appeals." This information is not accurate.

A letter from Donald S. McCauley, President of Minuteman Wind LLC, dated December 11, 2007, clearly states....."we must caution the Board that these are estimates and subject to change as Minuteman proceeds into more detailed project analysis." As Town Clerk and keeper of the town records, I can clearly state that there has been no document entered into the town records, no definitive agreement, no contract signed by officials, and, (to my knowledge), not a handshake, or a promise, that any amount of money has been agreed upon. And, again, as Town Clerk, I am concerned that those residents ..."celebrating the offer as an answer to daunting financial problems." , and others who read the article in the Transcript, will make their decision based on this erroneous information. Copies of the Minuteman letter are available at the Town Office as well as both bylaws. I urge all residents to know what they are voting for.

BYLAW CONFUSION
Two bylaws are to be voted on by the town. The first, which will go before the voters on January 3rd, was influenced by a state-designed outline for a bylaw addressing wind tower projects within the Commonwealth. It is a simple document that is easy to understand and states clearly its objectives. This proposal was submitted by Mr. Harold "Butch" Malloy, owner of the land the turbines will be built on, and forty-three registered voters who also signed the document.

The second bylaw is being proposed by the Savoy Planning Board. This document has been three years in the works and permits construction of wind facilities town wide, as does the "Malloy" bylaw, but restricts certain aspects of a project that would not comply with the concerns of the residents. This bylaw was developed as a result from the input of resident comments, neighboring town input, advice from the Attorney General’s office, Town Council, and visits to Planning Boards in other communities that have already experienced wind farms.

The difference in the bylaws rests mostly with the height of the towers. In the "Malloy" version, 425 feet is proposed as acceptable to the area landscape. The Savoy Planning Board suggests 350 feet is the height most reasonable to fit the size of the community and surrounding areas. Other areas of comparison between the two bylaws concern future projects, property setback, emergency services, flicker and shadow effects, abandonment, balloon visualization (pre-construction), and abandonment. The Planning Board has been handing out informational sheets on their proposed bylaw that point out the differences between the two laws for the convenience of the residents. This information is also available at the Town Office.

Residents should understand the importance of knowing what they are voting on. The results of this issue will impact the town of Savoy and its residents today and for generations to come. It should not be taken lightly, nor should the responsibility of this decision be left to others. Get the facts. Know the substance of each of these bylaws. Vote the one that you feel would best serve you and the community in general.

2007-12-10T13:13:00.000-05:00

Below is the Proposed Savoy Wind Energy Bylaw presented by Mr. Malloy. I (Brenda Smith) was remiss by not posting this proposal sooner.

SECTION 9. COMMERCIAL WIND ENERGY FACILITIES

9.1 Purpose. The purpose of this Section 9 of the Zoning Bylaw is to provide by special permit for the construction and operation of commercial wind facilities while minimizing the impacts on the scenic, natural and historic resources of the Town of Savoy. This bylaw provides standards and requirements for the design, construction, monitoring, modification and removal of such facilities.

9.2 Definitions. The following terms are defined, for purposes of Section 9, as follows:

Access Road: A roadway constructed on the Site for use in the construction and operation of the Commercial Wind Facility.

Commercial Wind Facility: A Wind Energy Conversion Facility with a nameplate capacity greater than 60 kW.

CWF Owner: The person owning the Commercial Wind Facility.

Decommissioning: Decommissioning shall consist of:
a. Physical removal of all wind turbines, structures, equipment, security barriers and transmission lines, except foundations and underground conduits, from the Site.
b. Disposal of all solid and hazardous waste in accordance with applicable waste disposal regulations.
c. Stabilization or re-vegetation of the Site as necessary to minimize erosion.

Height: The height of each wind turbine in a Wind Energy Conversion Facility shall be measured from the grade at the base of the turbine to the uppermost extension of any blade of the turbine.

Meteorological Tower: A temporary tower equipped with devices to measure wind speeds and direction, used to determine how much wind power a site can be expected to generate.

Property Owner: The person holding proprietary interest in land on which the Wind Energy Conversion Facility is located or proposed to be located. The owner may or may not be the CWF Owner.

Site: The parcel or parcels on which the Commercial Wind Facility is to be located.

Special Permit Granting Authority or SPGA means the Town of Savoy Zoning Board of Appeals.

Wind Energy Conversion Facility: All equipment, machinery and structures utilized in connection with the utilization of wind energy to generate electric energy, including related transmission, distribution, collection, storage or supply systems whether underground, on the surface or overhead, and other equipment including but not limited to, wind turbine, anemometer (wind measuring equipment), transformers, substation, power lines, control and maintenance facilities, site access and service roads. A Wind Energy Conversion Facility may consist of one or more wind turbines. The primary components of a wind turbine are the foundation, tower, nacelle and blades (see diagram attached as Appendix A to the Zoning Bylaw).

9.3. Meteorological Towers. A Meteorological Tower shall be a by-right temporary structure installation provided that it meets the following conditions:

9.3.1 The height of the Meteorological tower shall not exceed 200 feet.

9.3.2 The Meteorological Tower shall be located at a distance of at least 1.0 times the height of the tower from any adjacent property boundary and at a distance of at least 1.5 times the height of the tower from any structure/building occupied by humans on adjacent properties.

9.3.3. The SPGA may require that, prior to erection of the Meteorological Tower, the applicant shall provide (i) evidence of commercial general liability insurance in an amount of $1,000,000 per occurrence and (ii) a financial surety in an amount appropriate for the removal of the Meteorological Tower and otherwise in a form a reasonably satisfactory to the SPGA.

9.3.4 The Meteorological Tower shall be removed after a period of 3 years from the date of erection, but such period may be extended by the SPGA for a reasonable period (i) in the event of a failure in the data collection equipment or (ii) upon filing of an application for a special permit for a Commercial Wind Facility at the site where the Meteorological Tower is located.

9.4. General Requirements for Commercial Wind Energy Facilities.

9.4.1. General. No Commercial Wind Facility may be erected, constructed, or installed without first obtaining a Special Permit from the SPGA as provided for in this bylaw. Any physical modifications to existing Commercial Wind Facilities that materially alters the type or size of such facilities shall also require a special permit from the SPGA. The SPGA shall grant a Special Permit if it finds that the proposed Commercial Wind Facility complies with the criteria of this Section 9 and other applicable provisions of the Zoning Bylaw.

9.4.2 Compliance with Laws. The construction and operation of all Commercial Wind facilities shall be consistent with all applicable local, state and federal requirements, including but not limited to all applicable safety, construction, environmental, electrical, communications and aviation requirements. The issuance of a special permit shall not limit the Town’s ability to enforce or seek enforcement of other legal requirements applicable to the Commercial Wind Facility.

9.4.3 Liability Insurance. Prior to commencement of construction, the CWF Owner shall provide evidence to the Board of Selectmen of adequate liability insurance against loss or damage to persons, including personal injury or death, and structures occasioned by failure of the facility.

9.4.4 Accessory Uses. Telecommunications antennas may be sited on Commercial Wind Facilities, subject to applicable regulations governing such uses and to the following.

(a) All ground-mounted equipment shall be located in a shelter, within the Commercial Wind Facility or otherwise screened from view.

(b) Antennas shall be flush-mounted to be in keeping with the design of the Commercial Wind Facility;

(c) All associate cabling shall be contained within the tower structure or enclosed within a conduit finished to match the turbine.

9.5 General Siting Standards

9.5.1 Height. The height of a Commercial Wind Facility shall not exceed 425 feet, with a minimum blade clearance from the ground immediate below of 100 feet.

9.5.2 Setbacks. Each wind turbine in the Commercial Wind Facility shall be located at a distance of at least 1.0 times the height of the tower from any adjacent property boundary and at a distance of at least 1.5 times the height of the facility from any structure/building occupied by humans on adjacent properties which have received a building permit or certificate of occupancy from the Town at the time of the application for a special permit.

9.6 Design Standards.

9.6.1 Color. All facility devices/components (tower, hub and blades) shall be designed to blend into the structure and/or the landscape to the extent reasonably practicable, such as by including the use of non-reflective and less obtrusive colored (e.g. ‘putty’) exterior paints.

9.6.2 Lighting. Lighting of the exterior of the wind facility shall be prohibited, except for the minimum extent necessary lighting or marking requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration. Supplemental lighting of safety or information signs as determined necessary by the SPGA. Lighting shall be designed to minimize glare on abutting properties and except as required by the FAA be directed downward with full cut-off fixtures to reduce light pollution.

9.6.3 Signage. The Commercial Wind Facility shall have signs on or near each wind turbine identifying the CWF Owner and providing a 24-hour emergency contact phone number. The Commercial Wind Facility shall also have signs on or near each wind turbine and at the beginning of the on-site access road to minimize trespassing and to warn of any dangers at the Commercial Wind Facility. The Commercial Wind Facility may also have educational signs providing information about the facility and the benefits of renewable energy. All signs shall comply with the requirements of the Zoning Bylaw.

9.6.4 Advertising. The Commercial Wind Facility shall not display any advertising except for reasonable identification of the manufacturer of the wind turbine and of the owner and operator of the facility.

9.6.5. Appurtenant Structures. All appurtenant structures, including but not limited to equipment shelters, storage facilities, transformers and substations, shall be architecturally compatible with each other and shall be contained within the wind turbine tower to the extent technically and economically feasible. Structures shall only be used for housing of equipment for the Site.

9.7 Safety, Aesthetic and Environmental Standards.

9.7.1 Emergency Services. The applicant shall provide a copy of project plans to local emergency services, as designated by the SPGA. Upon request, the applicant shall provide safety training courses to local emergency services and shall cooperate with local emergency services in developing an emergency response plan.

9.7.2 Shadow/Flicker. A Commercial Wind Facility shall be sited in a manner that minimizes shadowing or flicker impacts which occur when the sun's rays on nearby receptors (usually homes and businesses) are temporarily blocked by the passing of a rotating wind turbine blade. The applicant has the burden of proving that shadowing or flicker does not have significant adverse impact on neighboring or adjacent uses.

9.7.3 Noise. The Commercial Wind Facility noise shall conform to the regulations of the Department of Environmental Protection’s Division of Air Quality Noise Regulations (310 CMR 7.10).

9.7.4 Land Clearing. Clearing of natural vegetation shall be limited to that which is necessary for the construction, operation and maintenance of the Commercial Wind Facility and shall otherwise be in compliance with all applicable local, state and federal requirements.

9.7.5 Safety Features. The Commercial Wind facility shall be designed to prevent unauthorized access (such as by construction of a fenced enclosure or locked access). The SPGA may impose such safety-related conditions, including buy not limited to fences, gates and warning signs as it reasonably finds necessary to protect public health and safety.

9.8 Maintenance.

9.8.1 Access Road. The CWF Owner shall, at all times, maintain the Access Road to a level reasonably acceptable to the local emergency services.

9.8.2 Site Maintenance. The CWF Owner shall maintain the access road (unless accepted as a public way), the Site, and the Commercial Wind Facility in good condition.

9.8.3 Repair of Public Ways. The CWF Owner shall be responsible for the cost of repairing any damage to a public way (including the Access Road if accepted as a public way) restoration of any damage caused by use of the public way in connection with the construction, operation or maintenance of the Commercial Wind Facility. A qualified third party engineer, mutually acceptable to the Town and the applicant, and paid for by the applicant, shall prior to construction (but no longer than a period of 30 days) document road conditions over roads expected to be used in the construction of the Commercial Wind Facility. The engineer shall document road consitions over affectd roads thirty days after completion of construction, or reasonably thereafter as weather permits. Necessary road repairs shall be approved by the Town Highway Department and the Board of Selectmen. The cost of any road repairs as a result of the construction of the Commercial Wind Facility shall be borne by the CWF Owner.

9.9 Abandonment or Decommissioning.

9.9.1 Removal Requirements. Any Commercial Wind Facility which has reached the end of its useful life shall be Decommissioned. When the Commercial Wind Facility is scheduled to be Decommissioned, the CWF Owner shall notify the Town of the proposed date of discontinued operations and plans for Decommissioning. The CWF Owner shall provide for the physical removal of the wind turbines within 150 days after the date of discontinued operations and shall diligently pursue all other Decommissioning activities.

9.9.2 Abandonment. Absent notice of a proposed date of Decommissioning, the Commercial Wind Facility shall be considered abandoned when it fails to operate, except for repair, refurbishment or upgrading, for a consecutive period of one year, unless with the expressed written consent of the SPGA. The SPGA shall determine in its decision what proportion of the facility is inoperable for the facility to be considered abandoned. If the CWF Owner applicant fails to Decommission Commercial Wind Facility in accordance with the requirements of section 9.9.1 within 150 days of abandonment or the proposed date of decommissioning, the Town, by direction of the Selectmen, shall have the authority to enter the property and physically remove the facility in accordance with this section.

9.9.3 Surety

9.9.3.1. Prior to commencing construction, the CWF Owner shall post an ongoing financial surety to cover the cost of Decommissioning in the event the Town must decommission the Commercial Wind Facility in compliance with the requirements set forth herein. Costs may include necessary legal, engineering, permitting, procurement, and construction and demolition expenses.

9.9.3.2. The surety shall be in a form (such as escrow account, bond, or otherwise) and an amount (not exceeding 125 percent of the cost of removal and compliance with the additional requirements set forth herein) reasonably satisfactory to the SPGA. The surety may be issued jointly by the CWF Owner to the Town, the Property Owner, and its lenders, and may be enforceable by each beneficiary in accordance with its terms.

9.9.3.3. A proposed form of surety which is limited in duration (e.g., to 1, 2, 5 years, etc.) shall be acceptable to the SPGA, subject to the condition that it is replaced by another acceptable form of surety prior to its expiration. Thus, an applicant may from time to time update with current estimates its costs of removal and other compliance and provide a new surety consistent with the updated estimates.

9.10 Term of Special Permit; Annual Meeting

9.10.1 Term of Special Permit. A Special Permit issued for a Commercial Wind Facility shall be valid for 25 years, unless extended or renewed. The time period may be extended or the permit renewed by the SPGA upon satisfactory operation of the facility. Request for renewal must be submitted at least 540 days prior to expiration of the special permit. Submitting a renewal request shall allow for continued operation of the facility until the SPGA acts. At the end of that period (including extensions and renewals), the wind facility shall be removed as required by this bylaw. The SPGA will reserve the right to waive sections of the wind turbine bylaw based upon historical data recorded over the prior years of operation.

9.10.2 Annual Meeting. An annual meeting shall be conducted (to be scheduled by the CWF Owner) between the CWF Owner and the town officials to discuss project related issues and concerns, including, but not limited to (i) recorded problems and incidents; (ii) resolution of problems and incidents; and (iii) report on equipment service plans.

9.10.3 Notice of Change in Ownership. Notice shall be provided to the Board of Selectmen of any change in the ownership of the Commercial Wind Facility.

9.11 Application Requirements and Process.

9.11.1 General. The application for special permit for a Commercial Wind Facility shall be filed by the applicant with the town clerk. The applicant shall provide 8 copies of the application. The application may redact any sensitive economic information concerning the facility.

9.11.2 Required Documents. The application shall include:

9.11.2.1 the name and contact information for the applicant;

9.11.2.2 a list of all project related consultants and technical specialists; and

9.11.2.3 documentation of the applicant’s legal right to use the Site for construction and operation of the Commercial Wind Facility.

9.11.3 Siting and Design Information. The application shall include the following material to describe the proposed Commercial Wind Facility:

9.11.3.1 Location Map. A copy of a portion of the most recent USGS Quadrangle Map, at a scale of 1:25,000, showing the proposed facility site, including the turbine sites, and the area within at least two miles from the proposed facility.

9.11.3.2 Site Plan. A plan of the facility site at a scale of 1" = 200 feet, with contour intervals no greater than 10 feet showing:

(a) Property lines for the Site and adjacent parcels within 300 feet;

(b) Outline of all existing buildings, including purpose (e.g. residence, garage, etc.) on the Site and all adjacent parcels within 500 feet and showing distance from the Commercial Wind Facility to each building shown;

(c) Location of all roads, public and private, on the Site and adjacent parcels, and proposed roads on the Site;

(d) Existing vegetation on the Site; and

(e) Proposed location and design of the Commercial Wind Facility, including all wind turbines, ground equipment, appurtenant structures, transmission infrastructure, access roads, fencing and lighting.

9.11.4. Visualizations. The Applicant shall provide visualizations from at least five sight lines selected to give representative views from principal locations in the Town and surrounding communities, for pre- and post-construction view representations of the Commercial Wind Facility. The view representations shall:

(a) be in color and shall include actual pre-construction photographs and accurate post-construction simulations of the height and breadth of the wind facility (e.g. superimpositions of the wind facility onto photographs of existing views).

(b) include existing, or proposed, buildings or tree coverage.

(c) be accompanied by a description of the technical procedures followed in producing the visualization (distances, angles, lens, etc).

9.11.5 Landscape Plan. The application shall include a plan indicating all proposed changes to the landscape of the site, including temporary or permanent roads or driveways, grading, vegetation clearing and planting, exterior lighting other than FAA lights, screening vegetation or structures.

9.11.6 Traffic Plan. The application shall provide the applicants estimate of traffic impacts during the construction and operation of the Commercial Wind Facility, including:

(a) a map of roadways anticipated to be utilized for construction and delivery of all project components and materials;

(b) Provide information on delivery vehicle types available for delivery of wind turbine components;

(c) Report all locations on the delivery route where land alterations, notwithstanding ownership, are necessary;

(d) Report if there will be road closures and disruptions affecting provisions for emergency response; and

(e) Report on any necessary road improvements.

9.11.7. Town Consultants. The SPGA may retain technical experts and consultants as appropriate to verify information presented by the applicant. The applicant shall be responsible for the cost of such consultants.

APPENDIX A was a picture of the wind turbine which will not scan to become part of this document.

2007-12-10T13:01:00.000-05:00

There is a Magic to this Place.

There is a magic to this place. Savoy, North Berkshire County, Massachusetts. I think most of us who live here sense this in our own different ways. It is Heaven on earth for me.

The Air, the Water, Trees, the Sunsets. The long, dry, warm summer Days, the Fall Carnival of leaves, and the morning sun gleaming upon the Snow. The indescribable magic holds on. Now, who would think that these qualities are not valuable? They are valuable to others looking for these same qualities that we enjoy.

We have adopted town laws that insure these qualities. These laws have directed the town growth in a positive direction for over thirty years. The magic has persisted. These qualities, under the guidance in place of our town codes, can answer many of our town’s financial problems. We only need turning our unique and increasingly scarce qualities to our advantage.

How does that happen? By encouraging wise business and up-scale residential developments that are compatible. These are the most healthy alternatives to intrusive and detrimental commercial industry such as a wind plant which will spell the end of the magic.

Do we choose to live in an industrial park or do we continue to live in the place of our original choice?

Preston McClanahan, Savoy taxpayer for 36 years, a resident and a member of the first town zoning board which brought the strongest town laws in Massachusetts before the town, are still in effect and exclude any detrimental commercial industry.

2007-12-10T12:59:00.000-05:00

There is no gain from the wind.

Wind energy delivers less than its costs to all: taxpayers, personal health, and the environment. It is not the magic bullet as advertised. These claims can be proven. The true facts are always hidden by the developers.

So where is the gain? The only real gain is to the brokers, developers, financial backers and the land lessors who will profit heavily.

Slowly, the world is becoming aware that wind energy is a swindle. Those for wind will soon be seen as blowing smoke.

In Towns which have good zoning laws, which do not allow commercial-industrial development, as does Savoy, Planning Boards should uphold the existing laws rather than ushering in commercial wind plants (these are not farms) through revised bylaws. Preston McClanahan Savoy Resident

2007-11-25T09:17:00.000-05:00

The Select Board met November 20. Mr. Butch Malloy wanted to know when the Special Town Meeting would be held to vote on the proposed bylaw presented by Mr. Malloy and MinutemanWind at the Public Hearing on October 25. Mr. Bettis wanted the vote to be held in December. Mr. Bettis was informed the Planning Board had scheduled an informational meeting for December 13 to present the Planning Board proposed bylaw. Mr. Bettis stated this was the first he had heard of this informational meeting. He was opposed to the Planning Board presenting their proposed bylaw before Mr. Malloy’s proposal was voted on by the town. He asked if this informational meeting could be rescheduled. Sue McGrath told the Select Board this was not possible since the newspapers had been sent notification to be published. Mr. Betttis said Jamie Reinhardt, Planning Board Chairman, should have presented the Select Board with his proposal for an informational hearing before it was sent to the papers. Mr. Bettis said it has been three years, what’s another two weeks.
Mr. Bettis explained he was concerned the residents would be just as confused as they were at the Public Hearing about which bylaw was being discussed. Brenda Smith suggested to Mr. Bettis the residents would be prepared to make a correct decision for the Town if they were aware of the significant differences in the two bylaws. The presentation by Mr. Malloy and MinutemanWind compared only their proposal and the state requirements. Mr. Bettis asked if the Planning Board would use their presentation to show the differences between Mr. Malloy’s and the Planning Board’s proposed bylaw. Since the Planning Board does not have either the equipment or the money to make a similar presentation, this would not possible.
Mr. Malloy said the Planning Board has been stalling. He felt the Planning Board was now rushing their informational hearing since his proposed bylaw had been presented. Mr. Malloy said his lease runs out in January. He wanted his bylaw to be voted on before the lease expired. He further expressed his concern the project would not go forward if his proposed bylaw is voted down. Mr. Malloy, also, said referring to the Commercial Wind Energy Facilities Bylaw his bylaw was wrong.
The vote on the bylaw presented by Mr. Malloy and MinutemanWind will be held Thursday, January 3, 2008 at the Fire Department, 7 PM. If this proposed bylaw is approved, it will become the bylaw for Savoy.
There was a brief discussion on the override vote to be held at the Senior Center, November 28, from noon to 8 PM. By Brenda Smith

2007-11-01T08:18:00.000-05:00

NOTICE:
The last day to register to vote on the override question is, Tuesday, November 6. The Town Clerk's office will be open from 2pm to 5pm and 7pm to 8pm for those who wish to register. The actual vote on the override ($70,000.00) will take place at the Senior Center on Wednesday, November 28, from noon to 8pm. from the Town Clerk's office

2007-10-31T10:01:00.000-05:00

The following was left at the Savoy Store.

FY08 BUDGET NEWS:

This year at the Annual Town Meeting Savoy voters approved a nearly level funded budget submitted by the Finance Committee and Select Board seeing only moderate increases.

Currently with the first quarter of the fiscal year complete we now have the final numbers from revenues including state cherry sheet at $818, 574 an increase of $24,812, new growth at $31,612, local receipts $114,500 and free cash at $12,500 also expenditures state and county charges at $176,433 an increase of $66,992, overly, etc. A very large increase cost in Charter School at $82,242 an increase of $28,410 and School Choice $93,593 an increase of $38,593 in tuition up by 61%.

During this time of finalizing the budget there is usually a deficit to be addressed. The methods used are to trim the working budget, use money from free cash or stabilization fund to help balance the budget or vote an override of Prop. 2 1/2.

After review of the current budget the Finance Committee, Select Board and other town officials have found ways to reduce costs by approx. $60,000 dollars including using all free cash of ($12,500).

The recommendation is to take approx. $15,000 from the stabilization fund bring the deficit to $70,000 and vote in an override of $70,000 rather than continue reducing the town's stabilization fund ($160,352.53). The override's ballot vote will be held on Wednesday, November 28th, 2007 from 12 noon to 8pm at the Senior Center.

The increase in property tax will be approx. $1.00 per $1,000 of evaluation.

Select Board and Finance Committee

Contact People

John Tynan, Select Board Chair 743-3573
Joe Bettis, Jr. 743-8132
Scott Koczela 743-0792

Finance Committee
Emile Mazur 743-1354
Jody Jardine 743-0029
Susan McGrath 743-0977

2007-10-30T17:11:00.000-05:00

PUBLIC HEARING
The public hearing for Mr. Malloy’s proposed "Commercial Wind Energy Facilities Bylaw" was held October 25 at the Fire Station. Mr. Malloy explained MinutemanWind did not write the bylaw. Mr. Malloy went to UMASS to see Sally Wright, , Renewable Energy Research Lab. Ms. Wright gave Mr. Malloy a copy of the state "Model Amendment to a Zoning Ordinance or bylaw". Mr. McCauley, President of MinutemanWind, stated they took the model and developed a proposal for Savoy.

Mr. Malloy felt the Savoy Planning Board’s bylaw had too many snags and was not workable. Mr. Malloy stated the proposed bylaw MinutemanWind would present had all the ‘meat and potatoes’ of the Planning Board without the snags. (The proposed bylaw presented by MinuteManWind will be referred to as the Malloy/MinutemanWind proposal not to be confused with the Planning Board proposal.)

Steve Weisman, MinutemanWind vice president, stated they had been waiting for the Planning Board bylaw but doubted the Planning Board would present their proposal anytime soon. The Planning Board has been working on a bylaw since 2004 and, it has not been presented to the town. Mr. Reinhardt, explained the Planning Board proposal would be ready as soon as town counsel clarified legal language in the document.

When questioned why Malloy and MinutemanWind didn’t wait for the Planning Board’s proposal, Mr. McCauley explained he was concerned about their data going stale. He briefly mentioned without going into detail, wetlands and habitats. Mr. Malloy mentioned the need to move forward to take advantage of environmental and tax incentives.

Some of the residents had issues with more of the ridgelines being used for wind turbines. Mr. McCauley explained the Malloy bylaw was for the project on West Hill Road, at this time.

Mr. Reinhardt was asked what would happen if the town voted for the Malloy/MinutemanWind bylaw and then voted to supersede with the Planning Board proposed bylaw. Mr. Reinhardt explained MinutemanWind would surely apply for a Special Permit from the Zoning Board as soon as the bylaw is approved. MinutemanWind would not be bound by the guidelines proposed by the Planning Board bylaw, only future projects, if any.

Mr. Bettis was moderator in place of Eric Krutiak, who had been called out of town. Mr. Bettis, Select Board member, explained the Planning Board has 21 days to review and make a written report to the Select Board on the "Malloy-MinutemanWind proposed bylaw". Mr. Bettis stated the Select Board thinks the "Malloy-MinutemanWind proposal" is a workable bylaw. He further explained the Select Board already has ideas on changing the "Malloy/MinutemanWind proposed bylaw before being presented to the town for a vote. The proposed bylaw will require a 2/3 vote at a Special Town Meeting to pass. Mr. Bettis stated the vote would be by ballot.

There was a question how concerns of citizens would be handled. Mr. Bettis said these issues would be handled by the Select Board. Concerned citizens would contact the Select Board and they would contact MinutemanWind.

Mr. McCauley was asked to define ‘sensitive economic information". Mr. McCauley said MinutemanWind would withhold sensitive economic information if it applies to individuals.

Mr. McCauley stated MinutemanWind wants to make "payment in lieu of taxes" (PILOT). Mr. Weisman stated assessors make assumptions about what taxes should be. The Select Board would negotiate PILOT. The propose settlement would be put before the town for a vote. If PILOT failed, the fallback for the town would be normal taxation. It was suggested taxation would be based on the cost of the turbines. The rate would be the ‘residential rate’ since Savoy has only a ‘residential rate’.

Mr. McCauley stated the Department of Revenue Regulations give the developer the right to PILOT. The proposed Malloy/MinutemanWind bylaw provides for independent consultants to be paid by the applicant. Mr. McCauley stated some towns hire consultants to negotiate PILOT. The town would be permitted to seek consultants familiar with negotiating fees for wind turbines and MinutemanWind would pay the consultants.

Mr. Bettis responded to inquiries about the fees MinutemanWind would pay the town. Mr. Bettis said the Select Board won’t know what the town would receive until after a bylaw is passed and MinutemanWind applies for a permit.

Mr. McCauley stated the existing bylaw would keep the project from beginning. The project would be illegal. The current bylaw has height limitations. Also, there is language that limits type of uses for land.

Mr. Malloy and Mr. Weisman both took shots at the Planning Board, as previously noted, for not having the Town Proposed bylaw ready. What they both neglect to appreciate is the Planning Board wrote the bylaw after reviewing exiting bylaws from other towns. The Planning Board members put in hundreds of hours researching issues the residents brought before them. The Planning Board has been trying to develop a bylaw that the residents would be comfortable voting for. They listened to the residents, trying to do the right thing for the town. The Planning Board had been working on the town’s proposal before Mr. Malloy walked into Sally Wright’s office and was handed the State’s generic model.

Mr. Bettis and Mr. Rosenthal had a brief exchange that brought a halt to the meeting. Mr. Rosenthal had his hand raised and wanted to be recognized to ask a question. Mr. Bettis told him he was not going to call on him again and to put his hand down. Mr. Rosenthal stated he was not going to put his hand down. Mr. Reinhardt stepped forward and adjourned the meeting. By Brenda Smith

2007-10-30T16:35:00.000-05:00

An Educated Electorate
Savoy and the surrounding area is now the prime target for wind developers since the Cape Wind project was rejected. Savoy is facing the most serious challenge in its 210-year history: the question of whether or not to include commercial industrial wind plants in its rural, agricultural, residential area.

Only an educated electorate can make responsible choices. Objective, credible information is needed on wind, as a renewable energy source globally and how it will impact our Northern Berkshires locally. Without that reality check, personal subjective interpretation alone will guide perception.

The list surrounding wind plants in the world, the state and the Berkshires is long i.e.: the financial picture, private property valuation and taxes, personal health, eminent domain, environmental impacts, wind plant power production and delivery, government subsidies to developers heavily underwritten by the common taxpayer, lucrative incentives to developers from commercial foreign and domestic investing, as well as profiteering landowners. Add the fact of nature that wind is not a reliable, controllable energy source and you have large profits to the investors,developers and land leasors for very small return of renewable energy. Is it worth it in the long run? No.

The financial picture is first on this list of issues for Savoy. Does Savoy need more money? One of Savoy’s pro wind plant assessors says either we let in the wind turbines or we must pay higher real estate taxes over the normal 2.5% yearly increase. This choice is given without knowing exactly what income will be from any wind plant in town. The developer, Minuteman Wind LLC, says that sum cannot be given unless Savoy approves their commercial/industrial wind plant first. Does the developer expect us to go ahead without the income figure, to buy a “pig in a poke”? These tactics, the threat of raising taxes and withholding town income figures, both are underhanded leverages for a pro wind agenda.

People need to know what is at stake so they can answer for themselves. The Savoy Mountain News and the West Hill Viewpoint http://stumpsprouts.blogspot,com/ continue to deliver responsible information. Preston McClanahan, Savoy Resident

2007-10-23T19:02:00.000-05:00

I have been attending Select Board meetings for quite a few years. The Select Board has questioned why the townspeople don’t get more involved with the meetings. Attendance is nonexistent unless there is an issue that interests the townspeople. That is normal for most small towns. I propose another reason, could it be the Select Board makes decisions outside the Select Board meetings? I have been informed by three previous Select Board members that this was a practice. Is this practice continued by the current Select Board?

What I have experienced is townspeople asking questions and some members of the Select Board being rude in their response. We all know the purpose of Select Board meetings. The Select Board meetings are for the purpose of handling town business. Also, the Select Board should be clear what information they use to make their decisions. When townspeople have to ask the Select Board to speak up so they can hear what is being discussed, does this make for a good meeting? Does the Select Board want participation from the townspeople?

At the last meeting in September several issues came up that were cause for concern. The first was Don McCauley stating how the informational meeting for the Molloy bylaw for wind turbines should be conducted. Isn’t this the responsibility of the Select Board and Planning Board? The Select Board and Planning Board should have been informing Mr. McCauley what procedures would be followed.

The property tax rate for Fiscal Year 2007 was $10.77 per thousand. Property was reassessed last year. My property increase was approximately $30,000.00. If my math is correct, my property tax bill will increase $323.10 with the $10.77 rate without the annual increase. The town is allowed an automatic annual 2.5 percent increase in each year. Why haven’t the tax bills been sent out? The property tax bills are suppose to be mailed October 1. The Select Board answered that question. There is not sufficient funds to run the town. The Select Board needs to ask for a tax increase. How do I know how I should vote when I don’t know how much the actual increase should be now? Or, is this a ploy by the Select Board to get my vote for a wind turbine bylaw? Mr. Tynan said he might not want wind turbines, but he had to do what was best for the town. Every voter is faced with the same issue. It shouldn’t be all about the money but the best bylaw that protects Savoy today and for future generations.

Since the Select Board has verbalized the need for more funds, I had to research the Massachusetts Government web site to try and understand the difference between a "debt exclusion" and "Proposition 2 1/2". "A "debt exclusion" creates a temporary increase in the levy limit to fund the payment of debt service costs for capital projects by borrowing. The additional amount for the debt service is added to the levy for the life of the debt. Exclusions do not become part of the base upon which the levy limit is calculated for future years. Exclusion questions are placed on the ballot by a two-thirds vote of the selectmen. A majority of the electorate is required to implement an exclusion." Savoy has voted for two debt exclusions since Fiscal Year 2000. Fiscal Year 2001, voters approved the purchase of a new four-wheel drive loader. Fiscal Year 2003, a modular addition to the elementary school was approved.

"Proposition 2 1/2" is a vote by a community at an election that permanently increases the levy limit. Unlike capital outlay expenditure exclusions or debt exclusions, an override vote can increase the levy limit no higher than the levy ceiling. The override ballot question must state a purpose for the override and a dollar amount.

"Proposition 2 ½ allows a community to assess taxes in excess of the automatic annual 2.5 percent increase and any increase due to new growth by passing an override. A community may take this action as long as it is below it’s levy ceiling, or 2.5 percent of full and fair cash value. An override cannot increase a community’s levy limit above the level of the community’s levy ceiling.

"When an override is passed, the levy limit for the year is calculated by including the amount of the override. The override results in a permanent increase in the levy limit of the community, which as part of the levy limit base, increase at the rate of 2.5 percent each year.

"A majority vote of a communities selectmen allows an override question to be placed on the ballot. Override questions must be presented in dollar terms and must specify the purpose of the override. Overrides require a majority vote of approval by the electorate."
If the Select Board follows through and asks for a property tax increase. Will I be able to afford a tax increase? Tough questions need to be asked, the Select Board needs to have answers, not the standard "we don’t have that information". If they don’t have the information, how can I vote to support an increase when I don’t know what my taxes should be under the Fiscal Year 2008 budget?

By the by, the Trojan Horse is at the gate filled with promises of money. After the Select Board meeting had adjourned Don McCauley and Select Board members stayed after the meeting and discussed the wind turbine project. The discussion centered around the fees Minuteman Wind would pay Savoy. Mr. McCauley was told he should be specific to the amount of money Savoy would receive, and the timeframe. Would the fees increase or decrease over the years. There was a consensus the fees would decrease each year since the wind turbines would devalue each year. What percentage would the turbines devalue? If my memory is correct, Mr. McCauley previously stated at a meeting the intent of his company was to sell the wind turbines to another company after they had been built. He made the comment he was in this business to make money. No one can blame him for wanting to make money. What is the long term expense for Savoy. Will his promise to pay the town specific amounts of money flow to the purchasing company? What if the company is an overseas company, how would Savoy be able to recoup any expenses associated with this project? What is my problem with this discussion? This discussion occurred after the Select Board meeting. Shouldn’t the townspeople attending the meeting been included in this exchange? Isn’t this town business?

Am I prepared to sell the heart and soul of Savoy for money? If my answer is ‘yes’, do I know how the Select Board will spend this money? Will the Select Board expect the taxpayers to fill the void with continued requests for higher tax increases as the fees decrease? A more serious question for me is the consideration of a proposed tax increase by the Select Board while a proposed wind turbine bylaw is being considered. The Select Board indicated they were going to be neutral. To bring up the matter of money with Mr. McCauley in attendance and the discussion after the meeting, makes this all about the money. Is this neutrality?

Savoy residents do care. I have come to the conclusion that nothing will change until we have a Select Board who is open about town business and encourages participation by the townspeople. We need to know what information they are considering when they make decisions. This is a small town and cannot have the budget of a larger town. What has happened to sensibility?
That’s my opinion. Your opinion and comments are welcome. By Brenda Smith

2007-08-09T08:55:00.000-05:00

The Select Board meeting held on July 31, 2007. The meeting lasted approximately two hours. While it is important to present the meeting, it would not be of value to transcribe the meeting in its entirety. We will try to provide the content without being inflammatory.

Preston McClanahan presented the Select Board with a petition with 24 signatures to remove the tower on West Hill. The Select Board said they would have to verify the signatures with the Town Clerk. Mr. McClanahan presented the Board with information about wind energy for their review. Mr. Bettis said they would put it in their file.

There were residents concerned with how Kevin Kruitak was not reappointed. The statement Mr. Tynan made to the newspaper concerning fire department members drinking and reporting to fire alarms was not resolved to the satisfaction of those in attendance. Residents felt such a blanket statement implied all members may have been drinkers. The Board would not apologize for the statement even though many of the residents expressed to the Select Board they did not drink.

The Select Board was asked what was going on in Savoy since the new Fire Chief had been appointed. After a lengthy debate, Mr. Bettis replies, "what do you want to happen?" Mr. Bettis and Mr. Tynan explained the Select Board had made their decision because they could; and it is their responsibility to appoint the Fire Chief. The Board members would not go into details of the precise reasons for not reappointing Mr. Kruitak. Questions arose as to why the Select Board had not requested the Fire Department members select a Fire Chief as they had in the past; and present their recommendation to the Select Board for approval. The Select Board did not feel they had to follow this procedure and could appoint who they wanted.

Mr. Bettis stated the Mr. Ordyna would not receive compensation this Fiscal Year. The money appropriated for the fire chief would be sent to Kevin Kruitak at the recommendation of the town’s counsel. If money became available for the new fire chief, the appropriation would need to be approved by the voters.

Jamie Reinhardt, Chair of the Planning Board, gave the Select Board an update on the "Commercial Wind Energy Facility Bylaw. He stated the bylaw probably would not be ready for August. The Attorney General’s Office had granted a review and noted areas of concern. The Planning Board is in the process of reviewing areas of concern and will update the bylaw. Mr. Reinhardt explained the Board had sought assistance from Berkshire Regional Planning. They had assisted as a courtesy, but they could not continue as a ‘free service’.

The town owns property at 116 Center Road. Mr. Tynan stated the property is ¾ of an acre. The Select Board is interested in asking abutters if they would be interested in the property. Sue McGrath explained the property had been turned over to the town for unpaid taxes plus attorney fees totaling over $13,000. Mrs. McGrath will do further research to determine whether the town can present the offer to abutters.

Mr. Bettis stated the berm at the school needs repair. In between meetings, he will let the Select Board know how much it will cost to repair the berm.

The Town Hall needs an evaluation of repairs. The back of the building is in poor condition.

The Select Board was questioned about the insurance rating for the town. The concern was the town may have a lower rating since the new fire chief does not have sufficient training. The Select Board responded they had not heard anything about it. They did not think their appointment would have any effect on the insurance rates for the residents.

2007-07-25T14:27:00.000-05:00

The Select Board met July 17, 2007. Althea Maynard and Cecelia Bloniarz asked the Select Board the status of the Fire Department. Mrs. Maynard was concerned with coverage for the senior citizens and response to their life alert. Select Board Chairman Tynan explained the senior citizens didn’t have to worry. He stated the Town has full coverage. Since July 1, there have been new firefighters come on board the department, and there are three EMTs on the Police Department. Also, Windsor will respond when called. The Select Board received a letter from the Adams Ambulance stating they will continue to support the town. He assured Mrs. Maynard training will be provided for new members of the Fire Department who need training.

Don McCauley, President of Minuteman Wind LLC, asked if the Select Board had read their (Minutemand Wind) bylaw proposal. Mr. Tynan replied they had read through it but didn’t form a group opinion or anything like that. The Select Board is still waiting for the Planning Board to present the Town bylaws. Jamie (Reinhardt) has told the Planning Board the bylaws would be ready for August.

Mr. McCauley inquired if he should proceed with introducing his proposed bylaw. Mr. Tynan explained he would want to wait and see what happened with the Town’s proposed bylaw. Mr. McCauley stated "he would believe it when I see it".

Mr. Tynan responded the Select Board had a pretty candid talk with Jamie. "It sounds like they (Planning Board) are pretty much done and Select Board is waiting to see bylaw". Mr. McCauley said he is waiting and anxious to get going. Mr. Tynan stated the Planning Board had worked hard on the bylaw. He said when Joe (Bettis) gets back from vacation maybe the Select Board can give Mr. McCauley more details on the proposal he had presented. "Ask me, that sounds fair enough."

Mr. McCauley responded "very good".

Mr. Malloy gave an update on the progress of the Conservation Commission regarding Griffin Hill Road and wet lands. He will return to the next Select Board meeting with further progress.

The meeting adjourned. Mr. McCauley stayed after the meeting to speak with the Select Board.
* * * * * *

The Massachusetts Attorney General’s office has published "Open Meeting Law Guidelines" that encompass the Massachusetts General Laws that apply to officials in government. Following are excerpts:

"Massachusetts adopted in 1958 its first open meeting law applicable to governmental units at the state, county and municipal levels. St. 1958, c. 626. In fact, there were three separate laws, one applicable to each level of government (state, county and municipal), but the substance of the three laws was the same. The first statute was fairly general in approach, and after a series of amendments over the years, the Open Meeting Law was substantially revamped in 1975, adding for each level of government a set of definitions of terms used and making more specific the provisions governing closed meeting sessions and notices of meetings. There have been a number of amendments to the Law since 1975, but its general format and provisions have remained the same. The purpose of the Open Meeting Law is to eliminate much of the secrecy surrounding the deliberations and decisions on which public policy is based. It accomplishes this purpose by requiring open discussion of governmental action at public meetings. The requirements of the Open Meeting Law grow out of the idea that the democratic process depends on the public having knowledge about the considerations underlying governmental action, for without that knowledge people are not able to judge the merits of action taken by their representatives. The overriding intent of the Open Meeting Law is therefore to foster and indeed require open discussion of governmental action at public meetings. Yet the Law does recognize that public officials might be "unduly hampered" if all discussions by public officials were required to be open. As a result, it specifies certain types of issues that may be discussed and decided in a closed session. These exceptions, however, are limited in number and narrow in scope.

The Law applies to those meetings of governmental bodies in which a quorum of the body convenes to deliberate on any public business or policy within its jurisdiction. The terms meeting, governmental body, deliberation, and quorum are specifically defined in the Law. G.L. c. 39, §23A. For covered meetings, the Law lays out specific procedures that must be followed. Most important is that the meeting be open to the public except in nine specific circumstances that are described in the statute. If one of the exceptions applies, the governmental body can meet in an executive session (closed session), provided it follows certain preparatory steps. Other critical procedural requirements are that records be maintained of all meetings (including executive sessions) and be made available to the public, and that notice of all meetings be publicly posted. Responsibility for enforcement of the Law at the local levels is vested in the District Attorney. However, judicial remedies in the form of prospective injunctive and declaratory relief may be sought by the District Attorney, the Attorney General, or three or more registered voters. Relief may also include an order invalidating or rescinding past actions by a governmental body or requiring the body to make its records public. Other remedies may be available as well; the Law states that its remedial provisions are not exclusive.

The Open Meeting Law is clear that all meetings of a governmental body are to be open to the public and any person shall be permitted to attend any such meeting unless the governmental body (1) validly decides to hold an executive session for one of the nine purposes outlined in the Law and (2) follows the prescribed procedures for holding such an executive session.

Note: "Telephone meetings" -- discussion by telephone among members of a governmental body on an issue of public business within the jurisdiction of the body -- are a violation of the Law. This is true even where individual telephone conversations occur in serial fashion.

"Revolving door" meetings, in which a quorum of members participates in serial fashion, are meetings under the Open Meeting Law and must comply with all the Law’s requirements.

With the advent of computers, it has become more common for persons, both at home and at work, to communicate through electronic mail, or "e-mail." Like private conversations held in person or over the telephone, e-mail conversations among a quorum of members of a governmental body that relate to public business violate the Open Meeting Law, as the public is deprived of the opportunity to attend and monitor the e-mail "meeting." Thus it is a violation to e-mail to a quorum messages that can be considered invitations to reply in any medium, and would amount to deliberation on business that must occur only at proper meetings. It is not a violation to use e-mail to distribute materials, correspondence, agendas or reports so that committee members can prepare individually for upcoming meetings."

If you are interested in the "Open Meeting Law Guidelines", go to www.mass.gov.

2006-11-10T16:10:00.000-05:00

Voting in Savoy on election day, November 7th, hit an all-time high with 44% of the town's 501 registered voters coming to the polls. The polls were open from 7AM to 8PM and the election workers were busy most of that time. Even with extra people counting the ballots at the close of the polls, the lights did not go out at the town office until 12:00 midnight. After the votes are tallied, the Town Clerk(s) have to report the final figures to the media, and the list of interested tv, radio, newspapers and news reports increases when it is a state and federal election. It is a lot of work for everyone and there is a constant need for help in all of these elections. Poll workers are always needed. If anyone has an interest in having their name on a list of available workers for future elections, please contact the Town Clerk.
Poll or election workers receive compensation at $7.50 an hour. They are required to spend the entire time at the polling place manning the voting lists and the ballot box and checking identification of voters when required. Election workers must arrive at the precinct at least 15 minutes before the polls open. Depending on the election, the polls can be open from four (4), eight (8), or thirteen (13) hours.
Counters receive a flat fee of $25.00 for their work. They are required to be at the polls just prior to closing time (8PM). As soon as the polls close and all the voters have finished voting, ballots are removed from the ballot box (in the presence of the police officer) and the counting begins. Counters are required to represent each national party (evenly). Counters check the ballots, mark the votes for each candidate or question, make sure the number of votes recorded equals the number of votes cast, submit the tallies to the election warden, and can then go home. At times the counters are in and out, other times, like when there are a lot of write-ins, it can be a difficult process. For all the workers involved in the election day process, it is a long day and can be very taxing, but it can also be a pleasant experience, talking with neighbors and residents of the town who come out to vote. The Town Clerk and Assistant Town Clerk want to especially thank all the election workers and the police officers who participated in this election, in particular the 'counters' who were called in at the last minute and helped get the votes tallied. It was most appreciated from the Town Clerk

2006-10-29T15:38:00.000-05:00

The meeting on Thursday, October 26th on the proposed by-law addressing wind towers in Savoy drew a respectable audience, but hardly the amount of interest one would have expected considering the importance of the subject. Eric Krutiak served as Moderator while Planning Board members asked and answered questions, hoping to gather helpful direction from the comments offered by residents and others. The by-law has been in the works for at least two years and a final draft should be ready to put to a vote within four or five months, according to Planning Board Chair, Jamie Reinhardt. The passage or defeat of the by-law at a town meeting is the only vote the residents will have on the windpower project. It requires a two-thirds vote [in favor] to pass. Height, sound, lighting, set-back from property lines, monitoring, maintenance, liability insurance,safety considerations, emergency problems, emissions, construction, abandonment or decommissioning, are all part of the issues the by-law will address. The terms and conditions of the by-law will provide standards and requirements for regulation, design and construction of the turbines. "With this by-law, the town Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals and other governing officials can establish reasonable terms and conditions." The Planning Board has been working with advice from the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission and models of by-laws that have been written for other area towns to establish our own by-law.

The audience appeard to be well represented by both advocates of wind power in town and those who oppose any such project. Don McCauley and Steve Wiseman of Minute Man Wind, LCC, the Waltham based company looking to put in the turbines, took notes during the hour and a half long meeting, but did not speak openly to the crowd. The audience was asked to keep all questions and statements focused on the by-law only. Personal opinions, arguments for or against the project were discouraged. For the most part, everyone cooperated. A second meeting planned for the first week in November was considered unnecessary. The Planning Board felt the responses from the residents and others attending this meeting had been enough for them to finish their work on the by-law and that pretty much everything that could be said about it had been said.

Many residents in town are under the impression that there will be a ballot vote on the wind turbines. This is not the case. The by-law will be presented to the voters at a town meeting. Voting will take place by the raising of hands or (if requested) a secret ballot. A two-thirds majority is necessary to pass the by-law. If passed at town meeting, the paperwork on the by-law, a certification of the final vote, and all pertinent information, is sent to the Attorney General by the Town Clerk for approval. If the by-law is approved by the Attorney General, the Clerk is notified of the decision and this notification must be posted at various places in town or published in the local newspapers before officially becoming a law of the town. It is a lengthy and complicated process. If the by-law fails to pass at town meeting, the developers can submit an application for a special permit to proceed with the project. This also is a lengthy process with time restraints. The responsibility to decide on the special permit rests with the Zoning Board. There will be a public hearing on the project which is meant to help the Zoning Board make a decision on whether to grant the permit or not, but the town will not have a vote. A by-law in place, voted on by the town, is a way the residents of this town can control such a project. Residents are urged to learn as much as they can about this process and what it will mean to the future of Savoy. from the Town Clerk

2006-10-11T11:15:00.000-05:00

What: Tall Girls Clothing Swap
For all girls and women 6 feet tall and over ONLY! (And those with wicked long arms & legs.)
Where: Meeting in Style
5 State Street, 3rd Floor
Shelburne Falls, MA 01370
When: Saturday, October 28, 2:00pm sharp to 5:00pm
Cost: This is a free and open event. RSVP is required. RSVP at http://www.evite.com/app/publicUrl/chassewithme@hotmail.com/tallgirlsclothesswap
or 413-625-2682

If you’re 6’+ you know how hard it is to find clothing that fits! You're not alone. Clean out your closets and bring those pants you haven't worn in five years! Someone wants them here! You may walk away with the perfect sweater, one that reaches to your wrists and covers your belly.What to bring:
Long pants
long armed & torso(ed) shirts
long skirts
long dresses
coats with long sleeves
shoes size 10+
any other items designed for the long torsoed/legged/armed female populationAll (number/letter) sizes and ages welcome. Unless they match or complete an outfit comprised of an item listed above, please do not bring shorts, short skirts, cropped pants or short sleeved or tank shirts unless the torso length is long. Sorry - the venue, www.meetinginstyle.com, is not handicap accessible.If you can't attend and have some clothes to donate, call Stacy Kontrabecki, 6’1”, at 413-625-2682 or email chassewithme@hotmail.com

2006-10-09T10:33:00.000-05:00

The Planning Board met October 4. Jamie Reinhardt said the Planning Board has scheduled hearings for October 26 and November 2 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the fire house. Eric Krutiak will be the moderator. Jamie outlined the procedures for the meeting. The Select Board will open questions and comments to the residents of Savoy before permitting non-residents to speak. The November 2 meeting will be held if everyone who wants to comment has not had an opportunity at the October 26 meeting. Jamie emphasized the hearing is on the proposed by-law only. The Planning Board will not entertain any questions specific to the Minuteman Wind Project. The Planning Board would prefer specific questions regarding the proposed by-law to help them in defining language changes in the proposed by-law. After the meetings, the Planning Board will finalize the by-law and present to the town for a vote. At the meeting for voting on the by-law, amendments can be presented for consideration. The amendment will require a two-thirds vote to pass.

26 JULY 06 Worksheet
Introduction: In the summer of 2004, the Planning Board mailed a questionnaire to all town residents soliciting their opinions on the topics of wind turbine projects and telecommunication towers (cell towers) in the town; 48 were returned. Of the questionnaires received there were 40 in favor and 8 opposed to Wind Turbine Projects. The result favorable of such projects was 83.3%.
Due to the surrounding communities interest and potential development of wind turbine projects, the results of the questionnaire and the recommendation of the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC), the Planning Board has developed this bylaw for the purpose of providing standards and requirements for regulation, design, construction, monitoring, modification and removal of such facilities. With this bylaw, the town Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals and other governing officials can establish reasonable terms and conditions. The Zoning Board of Appeals is the Special permit granting authority (SPGA) in such matters. The by-laws are an attempt to balance community and environmental concerns and in the best interest of the town.
Research:
1. How are complaint/resolution mechanisms routed and by whom?
2. Some wording if something is found of concern that is not specifically worded in the bylaw/
3. Wording if some new ‘issue’ arises. Were do we add such a thing?
4. Can Fish and Wildlife provide information/recommendation?
5. Visit a project. Dialogue with township officials and residents.
6. Mechanism for settling disputes/claims by resident(s).

Commercial Wind Energy Facility Bylaw
1. Purpose
The purpose of this Commercial Wind Energy Facility Bylaw is intended to protect the scenic, historic, environmental and natural or man-made resources of the community. This bylaw is a guideline providing standards and requirements for regulation, design, construction, monitoring, modification and removal of such facilities. The guidelines are an effort to seek a balance between community and environmental concerns and act in the best interest and character of the town.
2. Definitions
Blade Throw: This occurs when a turbine blade, pieces of the blade, or ice from the blade separate from the structure and "fly" off outward and down.
Commercial Wind Energy Conversion Facility: A facility that uses less than 50% of the electrical energy generated by the facility on the site.
‘Decommissioning’: The physical removal of all structures, machinery, equipment, fencing and transmission lines from the facility.
Flickering: This occurs when the sun’s rays on nearby receptors (usually homes and businesses) are temporarily blocked by the passing of a rotating wind turbine blade; the extent of flickering is dependent on turbine height, blade length and seasonal position of the sun on the horizon.
Height: For the purpose of calculating the overall height of a wind turbine, the total height shall be measured from the average grade to the uppermost extension of any blade or maximum height reached by any part or the wind turbine.
Shadowing: This occurs when shadows are cast by wind turbines; the extent of shadowing is dependent on turbine height, width and seasonal position of the sun on the horizon.
Facility Owner
The owner(s) of the wind turbines and its accessory equipment involved in the generation of electricity. The operator shall be responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the facility to ensure that the facility is in proper and safe operating order.

Facility Owner
The owner(s) of the wind turbines and its accessory equipment involved in the generation of electricity. The operator shall be responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the facility to ensure that the facility is in proper and safe operating order.
Property Owner
An individual. Firm, association, syndicate, partnership, or corporation holding proprietary interest in land on which the Wind Energy Conversion Facility is located or proposed to be located. The owner may or may not be the Facility Owner.
All improvements are removed, the site and accompanying access roads are re-graded to match pre-existing topography, and the site and access roads are re-vegetated. Existing trees shall only be removed if necessary to complete the required removal.
Restored
All improvements are removed, the site and accompanying access roads are re-graded to match pre-existing topography, and the site and access roads are re-vegetated. Existing trees shall only be removed if necessary to complete the required removal.
Wind Energy Conversion Facility: All equipment, machinery and structures utilized in connection with commercial wind-generated energy production and generation, including related transmission, distribution, collection, storage or supply systems whether underground, on the surface or overhead, and other equipment or byproducts in connection therewith and the sale of the energy produced thereby, including but not limited to, wind turbine (foundation, tower, nacelle and blades), anemometers (wind measuring equipment), transformers, substation, power lines, control and maintenance facilities, site access and service roads.

Wind Turbine: Equipment used in wind-generated energy production. Wind turbines capture the kinetic energy of the wind and convert it into electricity. Primary components are the foundation, tower, nacelle and blades.

3. Wind Monitoring or Meteorological Towers
Meteorological towers shall be a by-right temporary structure installation provided the tower meets the following conditions:
(a) The tower shall be removed after a period of 18 months from the date of the erection. This may be extended a period of 2 months with evidence of a failure in the data collection equipment. If a meteorological tower is to be permanently installed, it shall be permitted in conjunction with the special permit for the project.
(b) The site shall be restored to the existing conditions prior to the installation following the removal of the tower. If wind turbines are being proposed for the site(s) on which the towers were located, the site shall be stabilized rather than restore it to pre-existing conditions until the time of a turbine being installed. Stabilization shall be limited to a period of 1 year after which, the site shall be restored to the existing conditions prior to the installation.
(c) A financial surety, in a form and amount acceptable to the SPGA, shall be provided to protect the town from decommissioning, abandonment and/or environmental damage from inappropriate construction practices. The amount, shall be adequate to cover the cost for removing the structure and devices, disposing of those, restoration of the site and associated fees.
(d) In the event that the private property owner wishes to retain foundation components of the meteorological, the owner shall ensure stabilization of the site against erosion.
4. General Requirements for Wind Energy Conversion Facilities
4.1.1 General
A wind facility may be authorized by a Special Permit issued by the Special Permit Granting Authority (SPGA). The SPGA is the Zoning Board of Appeals.
4.1.2 Findings
The SPGA may grant a Special Permit only if it finds that the proposed wind facility:
Complies, at a minimum, with all the criteria of this bylaw; and
(b) Will not have detrimental effect upon the local neighborhood and the town, by locating structures so that they minimize negative impacts, such as, but not limited to, visual blight, noise and falling objects on the general safety, welfare and quality of life of the community; and

Documentation that the facility complies with all applicable local, state, federal laws and regulations, including but not limited to all applicable safety, construction, noise, electrical, communications, environmental and aviation requirements.
4.1.3 Surety
The project owner(s)/developer/operator shall post a financial surety in form and amount satisfactory to the SPGA and the Town Counsel, to ensure compliance with all conditions of the Special Permit. Conditions shall include, but not be limited to, provisions for repairs to the access road, restoration of required buffers or restoration of the environment at no cost to the Town. Such surety shall also cover the removal and disposal of the facility and restoration of the site and/or access roads to pre-existing conditions in the event of non-operation or abandonment. An access road may include existing town roads not designed for heavy traffic. Abandonment shall be defined as the unexcused failure to operate the facility, except for repair, refurbishment or upgrading, for a consecutive period of 12 months. See Section 9 Abandonment or Decommissioning.
4.1.4 Ongoing Surety Requirements
The project owner(s)/developer/operator shall also provide an ongoing financial surety in a form and amount acceptable to the SPGA to ensure that the facility will be removed and disposed of and the site, including access roads and power line rights-of-way, will be restored to a stable and attractive condition if the project owner abandons the facility or does not meet the special permit conditions.
a. The amount and form of the surety will be reviewed by the SPGA prior to expiration, but no less than every two years.
b. If the estimated costs for removal and restoration increase beyond the amount of the current surety, the SPGA shall increase the required surety amount.
c. Upon a finding of noncompliance by the SPGA with the special permit conditions, or abandonment as defined above, the SPGA shall notify the project owner at their last known address by certified and first class mail of the noncompliance or abandonment and shall provide 30 days notice that the surety may be called in so that the Town may correct the deficiencies or remove the facility and restore the site. In the event that certified mail cannot be delivered, it shall be presumed that first class mail was received by the project owner.
d. After the 30-day period, if the deficiency has not been corrected, the facility placed back in operation, or the facility owner has not appeared before the SPGA at a public meeting and the SPGA provided additional time to bring the facility into full compliance, the Town shall collect the financial surety in the manner established in the surety documents.
e. Subsequent to collecting the surety, the Town will take the necessary steps to correct the deficiency or remove the facility and restore the site, utilizing the funds from the surety. Collected surety shall be maintained by the Town Treasurer in a separate, interest-bearing account and utilized only to bring the facility into compliance. Costs may include necessary legal, engineering, permitting, procurement, and construction/demolition expenses.
f. If surety has to be drawn upon by the Town to correct deficiencies, and the facility is not removed, the surety amount must be recalculated and adequate surety provided to continue to ensure that the full costs of possible future deficiencies or removal and restoration can be covered by the surety.

4.1.5 Liability Insurance
The owner(s)/developer/operator shall be required to provide evidence of adequate liability insurance against loss or damage to persons, including personal injury or death, and structures occasioned by failure of the facility.
4.2 Design Standards
4.2.1. Aesthetic and Environmental Considerations
A Wind facility shall be:
(a) Located so as to minimize visual and environmental impacts, especially from highly rated scenic areas, while being consistent with economic viability.
(b) Located to utilize existing power lines and existing cleared rights-of-way.
(c ) Located to avoid rare species habitat, wetland resources and old growth forest.
(d) Located in areas where land has already been cleared in order to avoid habitat fragmentation.
4.2.2. Height
The height of a wind facility as measured from grade to blade-tip height or the uppermost extension of any attachment of the wind turbine shall not exceed 350 feet, with a minimum blade clearance from the ground immediately below of 20 feet.
4.2.3. Sound
4.2.3.1 Airborne Sound
Operational noise, shall conform to the guidelines of the Division of Air Quality Control Policy, which clarifies the enforcement of 310 CMR 7.10.
Research BRPC comment below
I would refer to the Div. of Air Quality Control POLICY, not 310 CMR 7.10. It is the policy that has set the level at 10dBA above ambient; 310 CMR 7.1 does not set a limit.
Our previous text:
as measured by the latest standards of ‘The Commonwealth of Massachusetts Air Pollution Control Regulations 310 CMR 7.10: Noise.’
4.2.3.2 Infra-sonic Sound
4.2.4. Color
All facility devices/components (tower, hub and blades) shall be colored (‘putty’), molded and/or installed to blend into the structure and/or the landscape, including the use of non-reflective exterior paints.

4.2.5 Lighting
a. Lighting of the exterior of the wind facility shall be prohibited, except for the minimum extent necessary lighting or marking requirements of the FAA.
b. Supplemental lighting of safety or informational signs as determined necessary by the SPGA. Safety or informational lighting shall be shielded and angled so to illuminate only the signs.
c. The facility shall provide the SPGA with a final official determination by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as to its lighting requirements and/or markings prior to the issuance of any special permit.
4.2.6. Accessory Uses
Wind turbines may be used to locate telecommunications antennas, subject to applicable regulations governing such uses subject to the following:
a. All ground-mounted equipment shall be located in a shelter, within the wind turbine or otherwise screened from view.
b. Antennas shall be flush-mounted to be in keeping with the design of the wind turbine.
c. All associated cabling shall be contained within the tower structure or enclosed within a conduit finished to match the turbine.
4.3 Setbacks
4.3.1 From property lines:
A wind facility tower shall be located at a distance of at least 1.5 times the height of the facility from any adjacent property boundary.
4.3.2 From Structures:
A wind facility shall be located at a distance of at least 1.5 times the height of the facility from any structure/building occupied by humans, whether on site or on adjacent properties. This is relative to any existing structure/building or proposed on record with the building official at the time of the owner(s)/developer/operator application for a special permit.
A natural vegetated buffer shall be retained for at least 50’ (fifty feet) in width around the entire perimeter of the project except were the access drive crosses said buffer.
4.4 Safety
4.4.1. Interferences:
The proponent shall prove to the satisfaction of the SPGA that the facility will not prove detrimental to neighboring properties due to electromagnetic fields, or radio, television, or cellular communications interruptions, or due to shadowing or flickering.
Once built, the facility shall not operate in a manner that exceeds maximum disturbance levels that have been documented as part of the special permit application submittal.

4.4.2. Signage:
a. As determined by the SPGA, to minimize trespassing and to minimize the threat of injury or death the wind facility shall have signage (‘POSTED’ / ‘WARNING’) surrounding each turbine and the access road as deemed necessary by the SPGA with consideration to blade throw and seasonal use of the surrounding property.
b. A locked gate shall be provided at the main access road(s) onto to project facility. An emergency key system (‘KNOX’ Box) shall be provided at each gate and corresponding keys provide to all emergency response personnel and Town Hall.
4.4.3. Emergency Contacts
There shall be a sign clearly displaying the names and telephone/cellular number(s) where the responsible party can be reached on a 24-hour basis. Signage shall follow existing bylaw requirements.
4.4.4. Safety Training
Safety training courses, exercises and equipment shall be provided by the Facility Owner for safety/rescue purposes. Requirements and equipment shall be provided to satisfaction of the governing authorities. (Fire Department, Police Department).
4.5 Permit Process and Filing Requirements
The Application for a wind facility shall be filed in accordance with the rules and regulations of the SPGA, ZBA – Zoning Board of Appeals.
4.5.1. Quantity
The applicant shall provide the Board(s) with a minimum of eight (8) copies of the requested documentation.
4.5.2. List of Applicant Contacts
Provide the name and contact information for the applicant/proponent.
4.5.3. List of Consultants
The proponent shall provide a list of all project related consultants and technical specialists.
4.5.4. Location Map
A copy of a portion of the most recent USGS Quadrangle Map, at a scale of 1:25,000 showing the proposed facility site, including the turbine sites, and the area within at least two miles from the proposed facility.
Note: The following maps and site plans shall be prepared, stamped and signed by a professional engineer licensed to practice in Massachusetts. The maps and plans shall be prepared on 24" X 36" sheets and shall be displayed on as many sheets as necessary to meet the requirements of the Vicinity Map and Site Plan as described below.
4.5.5. Vicinity Map
a. A map of the facility at a scale of 1" = 200 feet, with contour intervals no greater than 10 feet showing the entire area within a 2,000-foot radius of the wind facility project site, including existing topography, public and private roads and trails, building and structures (labeled with the latest owners name), historic sites, bodies of water and landscape features. Indicate the property lines of the proposed wind facility site parcel and of all abutters within 2,000 feet of the site parcel. Show any access easements or rights-of-ways needed for access from a public way to the wind facility, and the names of all abutters or property owners along the site and the easements, or those who have deeded rights to the easement.
b. A separate map shall be provide to show location of all transmission lines and transformers and the site where the electricity generated from the wind facility will join the existing electric grid system or inter-connect location.

4.5.6. Site Plans
The Site Plan shall include at a minimum the following information.
4.5.6.1 Contact information of the landowners of the facility site; and names and addresses of all landowners within 1000 feet of the wind facility parcel.
4.5.6.2 Existing property lines and location of structures or buildings within 1,000-foot radius of each proposed wind facility structure.
4.5.6.3 Existing Conditions Plan: A recent survey of the site at a scale no smaller than one inch equals 40 feet (1:480) with topography drawn with a minimum of five-foot contour intervals, showing existing utilities, property lines, stone walls or fence lines, wooded areas, individual trees with diameters greater than 12 inches within a three hundred foot radius from the base of each proposed tower site (labeled with their current heights).
The survey plan must have been completed, on the ground, by a professional land surveyor within five years prior to the application date, unless there has been substantial change since such date.
4.5.6.4 A plan showing the existing vegetation to be removed or altered.
4.5.6.5 Engineering plans showing drainage of surface water and plans to control erosion and sedimentation both during construction and as a permanent measure.
4.5.6.6 Show the boundary of any wetlands or floodplains or watercourses, and of any bodies of water included in the Water Resource Overlay District (if applicable) within 200 feet for the facility or any related facilities, accessways or appurtenances. Delineation of all wetland resource areas and their associated buffers, and of any certified or suspected vernal pools, and location of all structures and roads within wetland resource areas or within 100 feet of vernal pools.
4.5.6.7 Location of rare and endangered species or communities and flight pathways of bats and birds, including those previously known and those discovered through the Avian and Bat Risk Assessment (as described in Section 4.5.9.c of this bylaw), within a 1000 foot radius of each of the wind facility structures.
4.5.6.8 Locations of all buildings, structures and their appurtenant structures, including supports and guy wires and any equipment, including without limitation, power lines and transformers. Indicate the distances of the bases of the wind turbines to the nearest property lines, buildings, roads, driveways and trails.
4.5.6.9 The proponent shall provide representative elevation views of buildings, structures, including exterior appearance, color and materials.
4.5.6.10 Show two cross-sections through a wind turbine, drawn at right angles to each other and showing the ground profile to at least 100 feet beyond the limit of clearing, and showing any guy wires, supports, transmission lines and any accessory structures. Show the foundation, transmission lines and other infrastructure below grade. Show the relative height of the wind turbines in relation to the surrounding trees; if the trees are not at mature height, also show their expected height in 10 years.
4.5.6.11 Proposed Site Plans: Plans of the proposed facility site layout and utilities, access roads and staging areas, indicating whether they are temporary or permanent, including grading, width and drainage. Include storm water drainage plans, including location and design of conveyance and detention/retention structures. Include a cross-section of the access road indicating the width, crown, depth of gravel, and paving or other surface material. Plans shall be at the same scale as the Existing Conditions Plan.

.5.7. Reports
4.5.7.1 Narrative Report: The proponent shall submit a narrative report summarizing the proposed project, and describing the facility design and the technical, economic and other justifications for the locations of the site and the access road(s) and the various structures. The report shall also describe design features to minimize the visual and environmental impacts of the proposed facility, including a summary of the findings from the Environmental Impact Report.
4.5.7.2 Site Control: The proponent shall submit documentation of the legal right to install and operate the proposed wind facility at the time of application for a Special Permit. Documentation shall also include proof of control over setback areas and access roads. Control shall mean legal authority to prevent the use or construction of any structure within the setback areas for human habitation.
4.5.7.3 Provide a traffic management plan.
4.5.7.2. Provided map of roadways to be utilized for construction and delivery of all project components and materials.
4.5.7.3. Provide information on delivery vehicle types available for delivery of wind turbine components, the vehicle type selected by the proponent and why.
4.5.7.4. Show all transportation routes to be used to transport the wind turbines to the site.
4.5.7.5. Report all locations along the delivery route were land alterations, not withstanding ownership, are necessary.
4.5.7.6. Report if there will be road closures and disruptions effecting provisions for emergency response.
4.5.7.7. Report on all road improvements. The cost of all road improvements shall solely be borne by the facility owner.
4.5.8 Sight Line Simulations
Proposed Sight Line Simulations: The proponent shall submit computer-generated modeling, photographic simulation or other form of documentation acceptable to the SPGA to show the following:
4.5.8.1 Up to (8) eight sight lines, from sites chosen by a coordinated effort between the Planning Board and SPGA, shall be shown of the proposed wind facility.
4.5.8.2 Sight lines shall be mapped on a site plan at a scale appropriate to the number of sites and the distances of the sites.
4.5.9 Environmental Impact Report (EIR): The proponent shall conduct an Environmental Impact Report that will assess the risk to plants and animals. The EIR shall, at a minimum, include:
a. Provide a 3 year study based upon the United States Department of the Interior - Fish and Wildlife Service.
b. Biological Impact Assessment, which will evaluate the potential risks of the proposed wind facility on rare plants and plant communities, and on rare resident and migratory wildlife on the wind facility site and within 1000 feet of the proposed facility.
c. Pre-construction Avian and Bat Assessment, which will evaluate the potential risks of the proposed facility on resident and migratory birds and bats. This assessment shall be conducted in a manner acceptable to state and federal wildlife agencies having authority over resident and migratory species, and shall be conducted (as indicted above), including at minimum both spring and fall migration seasons, prior to the submission of the Special Permit application. The Avian and Bat Assessment shall continue up until the commencement of construction of the wind facility and the data shall be provided to the SPGA on a quarterly basis.
d. Contingency Proposal, which will outline mitigation measures that will be undertaken in the event that unforeseen and unacceptable wildlife impacts and mortalities occur at the wind facility. Unacceptable wildlife impacts and mortalities shall be determined by the state and federal agencies that have authority over the impacted species.

4.5.10 Balloon Visualization
Within 35 days of submitting an application, applicant shall arrange to fly, or raise upon a temporary mast, a (3) three feet (we had a 6’ diameter) diameter nine and one half foot long brightly colored balloon at the maximum blade tip height of the proposed wind facility and at each end of the array of the wind facility. (we had all sites). The dates, (including a second date, in case of poor visibility on the initial date in the reasonable opinion of the Planning Board and SPGA), times and locations of this balloon test shall be advertised, by the applicant, at seven and fourteen days in advance of the first test date (and a second date if applicable) in a newspaper with a general circulation in the Town. The applicant shall inform the Planning Board, SPGA and the Select Board, in writing, of the dates and times of the test, at least fourteen days in advance. The balloon(s) shall be flown for at least four consecutive hours sometime between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm of the dates chosen.
The applicant shall prepare and mail a general circulation in the town to each resident and property owner at least five days prior to such flight. The documentation shall provide the recipient with an explanation of the test and its purpose. The narrative shall be reviewed by the Planning Board, SPGA and the Select Board for review and comment prior to its issuance.
The applicant shall coordinate the procedure with all necessary local, state and federal agencies.
5.0 Independent Consultants
The SPGA may, at its discretion, hire independent consultants whose services shall be paid for by the proponent.
Upon submission of a complete application, the Board(s) shall hire independent consultants whose services shall be paid for in-full by the applicant. In addition to the complete application, the applicant shall deposit with the Town funds sufficient to cover the projected costs of any and all consultants whose services may be required and requested by the Board(s). If the SPGA finds that additional funds are necessary, the applicant shall be required to provide those funds.
6.0 Approval Criteria
In addition to the findings required in this Wind Energy Conversion Facility section, the SPGA shall determine that the proponent has agreed to implement all reasonable measures to mitigate foreseeable and unforeseen adverse impacts of the wind facility should they be later determined to have occurred, including electronic or cellular interference and unacceptable bat and avian kills.
The SPGA shall act upon the wind facility proposal in accordance with the Special Permit procedures and time lines established in Town By-laws.
The SPGA may impose conditions that it deems reasonably necessary to minimize or mitigate detrimental effects to the environment and to neighboring properties, including but not limited to impacts incurred during construction and/or operation of the wind facility.
7.0 Monitoring and Compliance Evaluation
7.1.1 The facility owner shall, at all times, maintain the access road and the facility to a level acceptable to the local Fire Chief, Emergency Medical Service and Highway Department.
7.1.2 The Facility Owner shall be liable for the cost of maintaining the access road (unless accepted as a public way), the project sites, and the facility and for restoration of any damage occurring during construction or as a result of operation of the facility and the cost of any extra maintenance of the access roadway from the accepted public access road(s) if it is caused by the project owner(s)/developer/operator.
7.1.3 The SPGA may impose such safety-related conditions, including but not limited to fences, gates and warning signs as it deems reasonably necessary to protect public health and safety.

7.2 Pre-Turbine Construction Testing:
After the granting of the special permit and before the applicant’s wind energy facility begins operation, the applicant shall pay for an independent consultant, selected/hired by the town, to monitor background noise around the site. A report of the monitoring results shall be prepared by the independent consultant and submitted to the Board(s) and Building Inspector.
7.3 Excessive emissions:
Should the monitoring of the wind facility site reveal that the facility exceeds this bylaw’s requirements with respect to noise levels, the owner(s)/developer/operator shall be notified so by__________. The owner shall submit to the ________ (Board) and the _______ (Building Inspector) plan(s) for the reduction of noise levels to meet compliance within 10 business days of notification of non-compliance. That plan shall reduce emissions and noise to the required levels within 14 days of the submission of the plan. Failure to do so shall be a violation of the special permit and subject to penalties and fines, as specified in Section ___, payable by the owner(s)/developer/operator of the facility.
The SPGA may impose additional or modified conditions when the facility is inspected annually or earlier if a more stringent compliance schedule is mandated or deemed necessary by another agency to assure continuing compliance. The owner(s)/developer/operator shall file a copy of the inspection records with the Building Inspec tor and ____.
The Building Inspector and SPGA shall receive a report/notification of all serious ‘incidents’ recorded on any/all wind turbines. Incidents include, but are not limited to, structural deficiencies or failure, blade failure, lightning strike, wind damage, vandalism and fire.
The Building Inspector shall receive copies of documentation regarding the warranty period by the original installer. If the warranty/maintenance of the facility is to be performed by other than the original installer, the Building official shall be notified and copied on all maintenance reports etc.
The proponent or project operator shall monitor and maintain a [ ] log of all dead birds and bats found within 1000 feet of each wind turbine for a minimum of five years after the commencement of turbine operations. Consult with United States Department of the Interior - Fish and Wildlife Service to determine the collection requirements.
These logs shall be submitted to the SPGA the state and federal agencies, local Conservation Commission. This schedule may be modified depending on the results from the previous year(s) or operation as determined by the United States Department of the Interior - Fish and Wildlife Service.
8.0 Term of Special Permit
The term of the Special Permit for a wind facility will be 20 years with the final decision by the SPGA not to exceed 30 years. Two years prior to the expiration terms of the original special permit the applicant shall file for a renewal of the Special Permit.
The SPGA will reserve the right to waive sections of the wind turbine bylaw based upon historical data recorded over the prior years of operation.
Annual Meeting
An annual meeting shall be conducted (to be scheduled by the Facility Owner) between the facility owner and the town officials to discuss project related issues/concerns etc. Topics to include, but not be limited to:
1. Recorded problems/incidents
2. Resolution of problems/incidents
3. Report on device service plans

9.0 Abandonment or Decommissioning
The facility shall be considered abandoned when the facility fails to operate, except for repair, refurbishment or upgrading, for a consecutive period of 6 months, unless with the expressed written consent of the SPGA due to extenuating circumstances. At this time, the Town shall have the authority to enter the property and physically remove and decommission the facility, using the financial surety provided under Section 4.0 of this bylaw for such purposes.
When the wind facility is scheduled to be abandoned or decommissioned, the owner(s)/developer/operator/operator shall notify the Town of the proposed date and decommissioning plans at least 60 days prior to the commencement of removal activities.
The Facility Owner shall at this time explain the details and get approval from the SPGA for the removal of the facility and its materials.
The SPGA may impose conditions to ensure that any damage to the environment or public ways caused by the removal are corrected and the site, including private access roads, is restored. The SPGA may require a financial surety to repair such damage and to restore the site.
Provide:
Disposal of all solid and hazardous waster in accordance with local and state waste disposal regulations.
Restoration of the wind facility site to pre-existing conditions, including but not limited to stabilization or revegetation of access roads to prevent erosion and sedimentation to wetland resources.
The SPGA may allow the Facility Owner to leave the landscaping and some below-ground foundations intact in order to minimize disruption to existing vegetation and to minimize erosion.
10. Severability
The invalidity of any section or provision of this By-Law shall not invalidate any other section or provision thereof.

2006-09-24T11:39:00.000-05:00

SAVOY WIND TURBINE ZONING BY-LAW PROPOSED
Thursday, September 21, 2006

For the past 2 years (or more), the Savoy Planning Board has been in a time consuming and tedious process of developing a Commercial Wind Energy Facility Turbine zoning by-law for the town. We began this effort shortly before the announcement of the West Hill Commercial Wind turbine project by Minuteman Wind. The purpose of the by-law is to provide guidelines for future commercial wind turbine projects that will strike a balance between prospective wind developer’s plans and the concerns of affected residents in the town.

As Planning Board members with no hidden agendas, we have been and will actively be attempting to determine the opinions of the majority of town residents before finalizing the by-law and presenting it to the town. In the summer of 2004, we mailed a questionnaire to all town residents to solicit opinions on possible wind turbine projects. Of the 48 that were returned, 40 were in favor and 8 were opposed to wind projects. Despite the low number of returns, this is all we had to go by. It should also be noted that in 2000 when the Planning Board suggested a By-law to prohibit commercial wind projects until it could further research the subject, the town rejected this.

However, as the current wind project proposed for West Hill looms in our future, it is becoming quite evident that some of the town’s residents are violently opposed to any commercial wind projects in this town. At a special meeting sponsored by Minuteman Wind (developers for the West Hill Project) held on Thursday, September 14th at the Savoy fire station, residents voiced their concerns over safety, noise, aesthetics, visual impacts, property value devaluation and other issues. Although Minuteman Wind representatives did their best to address these concerns, it was quite obvious that many of those present were not satisfied with the answers.

It is too bad that the apparent majority (at least from the results of our survey) did not speak up at the meeting. They were the ones who listened - respectfully and courteously, I might add - to Minuteman's presentation.I have received numerous mailings at my home (some signed and some anonymous) that have all been opposed to this project. If there are Savoy residents who are in favor of these projects, then I suggest they make their voices heard soon before we finalize the new by-law. Our Planning Board meetings are open to the public, and it would assist us in our work if we could hear, in a courteous manner, from both opponents and proponents on the topic.

Tom Sadin – member of the Savoy Planning Board

2006-08-20T12:22:00.000-05:00

The State Primary will take place on Tuesday, September 19th. Anyone wishing to register to vote or voters who want to change their party must do so before August 30th. Absentee ballots are available from the Town Clerk's office now. If you need to request an absentee ballot, call and request an application to do so. The Town Clerk is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 5PM. You can call the office and leave a message at any other time. The number is 743-3759. from the Town Clerk

2006-07-31T10:16:00.000-05:00

Donald McCauley of MinutemanWind address Select Board by Brenda Smith
The following is from the taped discussion by Mr. Donald McCauley and the Select Board on Tuesday, July 25. I have put in quotations the exact statements made during the meeting. I have tried to be as clear and concise as Mr. McCauley was during his presentation.

Mr. Donald McCauley from MinutemanWind attended the Select Board Meeting Tuesday, July 25. He stated he was there to bring the Select Board up to date on what their activities have been. "Obviously, we attended the opposition meeting that was held at the fire house. We are preparing our information in the form of the questions that were raised there. We are just about to file a Notice of Construction with the Federal Aviation Administration to make sure there are no issues and that will address the lighting issues that people are concerned about. We are, also, finalizing an environmental notification form which we will be filing with the Environmental Protection. We have prepared a draft of a Zoning Amendment that we have gone over with counsel. I expect to have a draft of a zoning amendment to bring to you at the next Select Board meeting and then work with you on the process of getting it introduced . This amendment will also be presented to the planning board for a proper hearing process. We expect to send an informational update to the residents mid to late August by mail. We want to have a community informational meeting in early September (September 7 or September 14, both are Thursdays) . I need to check with you to see if that is available. Then after that information session, we would go to planning meeting. Plan to hold hearing on zoning by-law and at the same time try and keep separate the notion that the first step is the adoption of the zoning by-law, which would set forth the general framework for addressing projects. Once that is adopted, we would bring specific plans for the project before the Zoning Board of Appeals to get a Special permit consistent with the by-law. So, that is the path we are anticipating." Mr. McCauley proposed a Special Town Meeting in late October for the town to consider the zoning by-law. He stated that the steps he had listed is what they are looking to do, and to give the Select Board a sense of where they were now and what they are expecting to do.

Joe Bettis asked if he is looking to bring the by-law up before MinutemanWind applies for the permits?

Mr. McCauley responded the project is a two-step process. "As a major project, it’s the type of project we typically do through the Special Permit process. The Zoning Board has Special Permit Authority." Mr. McCauley said that the Zoning Board would be able to propose any mitigation to the project they feel appropriate. There will be a general structure in place that deals with establishing what the parameters for review, and address some of the restriction in the by-law. Mr. McCauley spoke about the June 28 opposition meeting and, the issue of height limitations. Mr. McCauley explained how the by-law would need to be modified to make the project feasible, "perhaps some other restrictions in the bylaw as well". "We are trying to come up with a simple but comprehensive by-law that would then give direction to the Zoning Board and how they would do it."

Mr. Bettis asked if Mr. McCauley has seen the draft from the Planning Board. Mr. McCauley responded "we have seen the draft of that, we are trying to respect that as much as we can." Mr. McCauley called the Planning Board to give a copy of ours, ours will be significantly different from that." MinutemanWind wants "a fair chance for review from the town. Obviously, It will be the town’s decision to do it." They would, also, consider any amendments that would be proposed.
Chad Wagenknecht inquired what would happen if the by-law is shot down. Mr. McCauley stated "if the by-law gets shot down, we can’t proceed with the project". Mr. Bettis inquired what if we don’t have a by-law. Mr. McCauley responded there is a height limitation, it’s probably not legal to do it in town without a by-law amendment."
Mr. Bettis stated that’s why the ZBA is here. Mr. Wagenknecht looked up the by-law and read from the Zoning By-laws Section 5.1.4: "The height of any building or structure shall not exceed 35 feet. Height restrictions do not apply to agricultural buildings or structures, spies, chimneys, antenna or other appurtenances usually placed about roof level and not intended for human occupancy."
Mr. Bettis said he didn’t think the by-law would pertain. Mr. Wagenknecht stated this would not pertain because it states any structure "not intended for human occupancy". Mr. McCauley responded, "unfortunately, it’s ambiguous enough that even if it were right, might be subject to litigation and litigation is, also, a risk." Mr. Tynan restated that if they proceed without a by-law, litigation could stop the project in it’s track. Mr. McCauley agreed "it’s never simple".
Mr. Wagenknecht addressed the height limitation. He asked if the turbines can be lowered to make up for the height loss." It just seems to be that everybody objected to the height". Originally, the turbines proposed for the project were lower . He questioned if they could shorten the turbines and add one more.

Mr. McCauley said one difference, in a sense, is they are newer turbines they are looking at or the same hub height, which is where the rotors are attached, is not higher as what had been discussed. The proposed turbines have longer blades. He further explained it might be possible to be a little shorter on the tower and on the blades to create a little reduction in height. "But, of all that, will have an effect on performance of the machines. But, unfortunately wind energy increases by a cube to the factor of the power of three as you go up. "So, given the advantage as you go up higher to capture more wind, and I think achieves a level of calm at this height, which has been a growth over the past five years. These machines have increased around a 50 or 60 feet hub height to a 80 meter hub height, we don’t see going bigger than that. Transportation restraints and the like would prevent that as well."

The next Select Board meeting is scheduled for August 8.

I attended the Planning Board meeting, Wednesday, July 26. Jamie Reinhardt said the proposed wind turbine by-law is almost ready. There are still a few issues that must be resolved. He presented the current draft with changes as of July 26, 2006 to the members. There will be no Planning Board meetings during the month of August. The next meeting is scheduled for September 6.

2006-07-22T11:20:00.000-05:00

Due to work related meetings, I was not able to attend past Select Board meetings, except for July 11. I have the minutes from the meetings and will publish them for your perusal. The minutes are old, old news; but for continuity, I will bring the blog up-to-date. The following is from Brenda Smith.

July 11: The issue of Don Curley’s property was discussed. The law firm representing Mr. Curley’s estate is waiting for the probate court to appoint an executor. Once this has taken place, the Select Board has requested the clean-up of the property be completed by November 15.
Fred Sawyer requested the Select Board do something to keep the water from running off Route 8A onto his property. Since the road was blacktopped three years ago, water has continually run onto his business, (S & S Machine). The Select Board agreed to have the highway department lower the manholes.
Daniel LaBonte from the Conservation Commission came before the Select Board with concerns regarding Burnett Road. He stated there was nothing in the conservation files for the work done on Burnett Road. Chad Wagenknecht explained to Mr. LaBonte that Ray LaBonte, Highway Superintendent, spoke with Mr. Dave Demariais (property owner on Burnett Road). Mr. Ray LaBonte instructed Mr. Demariais to replace the old culverts with 15" culverts, and to have construction grade aggregate put on the road to bring it up for use. Ray said he had not had any problems with Mr. Demariais. Mr. Demariais was willing to do what Ray requested. Mr. Daniel LaBonte was still concerned that this might set a precedent if Mr. Demariais did not go before the Conservation Commission with a plan for what he intended. Mr. Wagenknecht suggested Mr. Daniel LaBonte send a friendly letter to Mr. Demariais requesting he attend a Conservation Commission meeting. (Note: When Emile Mazur was on the Select Board, Mr. Demariais approached the Select Board to discuss his plans for building a home. At that time the Select Board was considering discontinuance of maintenance of part of the road. The Select Board agreed not to discontinuance maintenance if Mr. Demariais repaired the section of Burnett Road leading to his property. Mr. Mazur conveyed this decision before he left the Select Board to Mr. Bettis and Mr. Wagenknecht.)
Mr. Ray LaBonte last day as Highway Superintendent was July 13. He will return to County Concrete.
June 17: Alice Liebenow requested the catch basin near her property be repaired by the Highway Department. She stated the catch basin is in bad shape. Joe Bettis will investigate and talk to Mr. LaBonte.
There was to be a bid opening for the Highway Department as run in the newspaper. There were only two bids. These bids were returned. The town is looking for more bids.
Mr. Wagenknecht discussed improvement to Tilton Road, extending to the end.
June 13: Robert Lucido discussed raises for Highway Department, cost of living every year set at Town Budget. Joe Bettis explained the process vote by town.
Bob Maynard, Town B cemetery. Mr. Maynard stated the cemetery is town owned and provided papers of ownership. Question, does the town want to care for the property currently cared for by him. Joe Bettis suggested a meeting with the Cemetery Commission to investigate further.
Don McCauley, from Minuteman, gave an update where they are going. He indicated he may want to attend Select Board meetings in the future. Mr. McCauley expressed his thanks for the use of the Town Fire Department for his group’s meeting. Mr. McCauley discussed the permitting process with the Town and concerns with the proposal bylaw, ‘cumbersome’. Mr. McCauley had model by-laws from Fair Haven. He also inquired who is the Town’s Counsel.
Mr. Wagenknecht stated the state will allow the Select Board to adjust account and transfer funds to balance the budget, up to 3% per account or $5,000.00, which ever is greater.
May 30: The Town Clerk noted it is time for the Select Board to make appointments for Town Boards. There was also a request for a raise for town election workers. The Select Board approved the request. They reviewed current appointees on town boards and addressed open positions in need of filling. They will continue working on filling these positions.
May 23: Preston McClanahan (Blackbrook Road) and Noel McClanahan (Hawley) came to discuss wind power. They were concerned about the effects of noise from the towers. This group wants to use the Savoy Fire House for an informational meeting for "Green Berkshires" to do a presentation, and showing films representative of impact results. Group stated inaccuracies in Minuteman presentation (visual projections). Select Board stated they will remain neutral. The Select Board suggested they contact the Savoy Fire Chief for using the firehouse.
Joe Bettis stated the Senior Center has damage that may require repair and will need to be evaluated.
Assessor Sam Davis has received a letter from theBureau of Local Assessment for the State of Massachusetts. The letter states that the Town of Savoy has forfeited to appeal the Commissioner’s determination of the 2006 Equalized Valuation.
May 16: Joe Bettis stated he will be the Northern Berkshire Solid Waste representative, appointed by the Select Board.
Jamie Reinhardt came to speak about the wind turbine meeting. Mr. Reinhardt explained the wind tower by-law is still in draft form and would like feed back from Select Board. The committee has been working with the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission. Mr. Reinhardt told the Select Board that the proponent has a draft copy of the by-law.

-

2006-07-14T14:03:00.000-05:00

Appointees for town boards who have not been sworn in should contact the Town Clerk as soon as possible. Summer hours are 1 to 5 PM on Tuesdays and Thursdays and by appointment. Please call 743-3759 Appointees who have not taken an oath of office are not eligible to vote on issues their committees are addressing.

There seems to be a great deal of confusion on who will have the final word on whether the five wind towers slated for West Hill in the Brier section of town will be built. Many residents have been counting on casting their vote in the ballot box to decide the outcome of this proposal. This is not the case. The decision is the sole responsibility of the Zoning Board, not the voters.

MinuteManWind, LLC, the company involved in the wind tower project, must submit an application for a special permit to erect the turbines in town. The application is reviewed by the Zoning Board, who will grant or reject the request. The Zoning Board must publish a notice of a public hearing within 65 days from the time the application is received, recorded and certified by the Town Clerk. After the date of the public hearing, the Zoning Board has 90 days to approve or turn down the permit. The Zoning Board will decide the outcome. Not the voters.

If the Board rejects the application and will not issue the permit, the applicant can appeal. They can also bring the issue before a Superior Court judge if it is felt the ZBA failed to execute their duties within the 90 day time limit. The law favors the applicant.

The only vote the town will have is on the by-law, which could restrict the size of the towers and address other issues the town deems important enough to put into law to protect itself from present and future problems. The by-law must be brought before the voters at a special town meeting. If passed by the voters (and a two-thirds vote is necessary), it must then be approved by the Attorney General before it is a town law. At the present time the by-law is being worked on by the Planning Board. It is very possible that the by-law will not be ready and in place before the application for a special permit is submitted by MinuteManWind.

The topic of choice whenever someone visits or calls the [Town Clerk's] office is, without question, the wind towers. Still, the legal procedure continues to be misunderstood. Residents need to understand that they will not decide the outcome by a vote. Let the Select Board and the Zoning Board know how you feel about the project. The 'pulse of the community' is what will aid the ZBA in its decision. from the Town Clerk

2006-05-11T15:51:00.000-05:00

It was difficult to tell just how many people attended the wind turbine informational meeting at the Fire House on Wednesday evening, May 10th, but it was standing room only. Residents of Savoy and individuals from neighboring communities listened intently to representatives from the Minuteman Wind,LLC who were there to lay out the plans for the construction of five wind turbines on West Hill in the Brier section of Savoy. A slide presentation of area photos depicting the site, its potential as a wind project, and its impact on the town held the audience in total awe while representatives of engineering and environmental studies talked about what had been done to assess the site and what possible impact it would have on the community, economically and environmentally. Questions from the audience proved to be the most interesting part of the evening as residents and others who would be affected by the view or perceived noise of the turbines put a true picture of the project flat out on the table. The questions raised were intelligent, probing, and direct. They hit right to the heart of the matter and were seemingly asked without prejudice. Savoy residents should feel proud of the way they maintained a constant give and take of information throughout the meeting. There were no angry outbursts or lengthy personal pros or cons to waste the vital time to gather as much information offered.

The five turbines were downgraded from seven originally proposed. Each turbine is 420 feet tall. They would have a total rated production capacity of 12.5 MW. The proposed route the trucks containing the materials to construct the turbines will take is up 8A from Windsor to 116, north on Center Road to Adams Road and then east on Adams, crossing Blackbrook and onto Brier Road. The route continues on Harwood Rd to the site on West Hill. Minuteman Wind Co. will undertake road improvements to the town roads in order to facilitate access to the windmill site. The actual construction at the site is estimated to take about three months. Construction is anticipated to begin in the spring of 2007. The subject of how much electrical power would be realized, the benefit to the town in revenue, the cost in loss of property value (or increase), were not specifically answered. Estimated results were not something most were comfortable with and a request for more studies and available information was definitely the order of the day. Although not mentioned in the information presented, it is rumored the Minuteman Wind, LLC, a company located in Waltham, MA, is preparing to submit applications to the town to begin the project within a matter of a month or two. The Savoy Planning Board has been working on a draft of a by-law that would put important restrictions on the project. The by-law has to go before the voters at a town meeting and be approved by them by a two-thirds' majority. The by-law, if passed by the voters, is then sent to the Attorney General for state approval before actually becoming law. from Town Clerk

2006-05-11T15:49:00.000-05:00

The Annual Town Election of Tuesday, May 9th netted enough candidates through the write-in process to fill most of the open seats. Candidates who were listed on the ballot ran unopposed and had no problem receiving enough votes to put them in office. Individuals who received the most write-in votes for a specific position were asked if they would accept the job and all agreed to do so. Two positions, Planning Board, 3 year term, and Treasurer, were considered "vacant" or "failure to elect" because there was no clear winner in the tally of write-in votes. In both situations, five (5) individuals were listed as receiving one (1) vote each. The Select Board will have to appoint someone to fill each of these positions. At this time, the Treasurer's job is still an elected office. At the Annual Town Meeting, the town agreed by vote to change it to an appointed position. This does not become official until the current term (3 years) is over.

The following is a list of the winners of this year's annual election:
Sam Davis will continue as ASSESSOR for a 3 year term.
Karen Freitag accepted the job on the CEMETERY COMMISSION.
Eric Krutiak will continue to serve as MODERATOR
Tom Sadin was easily elected to the PLANNING BOARD for a 1 year term
Don Phinney will remain on the PLANNING BOARD for 2 more years.
Rona Brandt Tynan agreed to serve on the PARK COMMISSION (a 3 year term)
Chris Andersen was again elected to the SCHOOL COMMITTEE for 3 years.
John Tynan ran unopposed for the open SELECTMAN's seat and was elected for a 3 year term.
Susan McGrath will continue as the TAX COLLECTOR for 3 more years.
Jane Phinney will remain the TOWN CLERK (a 3 year term)
from the Town Clerk

2006-05-02T09:19:00.000-05:00

Free Passes Available

MassMoCA in North Adams
The Clarke Art Museum in Williamstown
Historic Deerfie.d Village in Deerfield (pass currently being renewed)
The Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge (new this year - available shortly)

Must See DVD

New addition to the library DVD collection. A jaw-dropping exposee. "Life Behind Bars - the sad truth about factory farming". Narrated by Mary Tyler Moore. Learn where your supermarket food REALLY comes from. An eye opener for individuals and groups. Thirteen and a half minutes long.

Remember - library hours are Tuesday and Thursday 1-5pm. Saturday 10am to noon or call 743-4290 and leave msg. Or 743-4542 (my home phone - please call after 1pm any day). from Jim Groves, librarian

2006-04-28T15:57:00.000-05:00

I received a call to inform me that I was mistaken in the deficit. I have looked at the ATM articles and this may be correct. If the articles were passed without amendments, the budget is over $14,000.00 that we would be assessed in taxes. The tax rate for supporting this budget would have been approximately $0.53 per thousand if the Cherry Sheet funding had remained at the Governor’s proposal. The Cherry Sheet (to get to the Cherry Sheet: www.mass.gov, under Online Services, select MORE. Under the heading "State Government, select Local Government, scroll down to "DLS Municipal Data Bank" and click on this heading. This will bring you to the Cherry Sheet, select a year and then select Savoy) shows the town has been reduced from $810,928.00 to $761,151.00 for Fiscal Year 2007. The budget was based on receiving $810,928.00 from the State. The other question I was asked, "do we have to approve the budget, can it be sent back to the Finance Committee?" I suggested this be brought up at the meeting Tuesday. This is to important an issue for the townspeople for me to inquire of the Select Board or Finance Committee members. Sue McGrath said a tax rate could not be set at this time until all the figures are in. The residents of Savoy have made the right decisions in the past. I have gathered this information hoping to inform the voters. With correct information, the voters will make the right decision for the town. by Brenda Smith

2006-04-26T11:54:00.000-05:00

Select Board Meeting, April 25. The Select Board discussed the budget process. The State notified the Town,Thursday, April 20, there would be a reduction in state funding, which has created a deficit of $81,404.65 for the town. The warrant for the Annual Town Meeting was posted, therefore, the decision was to present the following at the ATM:

Amend Article 3: bottom line would be $269,918.00, a reduction of $21,404.00.

Amend Article 24 and Article 25: to be tabled until a later date and time.

This will allow the town to have a working budget. The issue of funding the deficit will placed before the Town at a later date. If the State does not provide more funding the townspeople will be faced with a tough 2 ½ override vote at a later date. The tax rate for FY’2007 cannot be set due to the deficit. by Brenda Smith

2006-04-20T18:52:00.000-05:00

Notes from the Select Board meetings of April 11 and April 18. A FEMA Grant was received by the Fire Department on October 15, 2002 for $152,571.00. The Fire Department used $143,583.07; therefore, $1,676.93 must be returned. The money will come out of the General Fund because it was put in the General Fund. Emile Mazur requested a list of roads from Dan Bosley’s office that were federally funded. The roads are Route 8A, Route 116 (Main Road), River Road, Chapel Road, Loop Road and Black Brook Road. Joe Bettis will file board of health papers to take care of the beaver problems on Main Road by the Town Park.
Police Chief Dean reported there is a dog problem in Savoy. There is no lease by-law. The Select Board will look into writing a by-law.
The Finance Committee completed the budget for Fiscal Year 2007 Tuesday night, April 18. The Warrant will be prepared for signatures April 19. The budget for the Annual Town Meeting follows:
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts
BERKSHIRE, SS
To either of the Constables of the Town of Savoy in the County of Berkshire Greeting.
IN THE NAME OF The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, you are hereby directed to notify and warn the inhabitants of said Town, qualified to vote in elections and in Town affairs, to meet at the FIRE STATION in said TOWN OF SAVOY on TUESDAY the SECOND (2nd) day of MAY, 2006 next, at 7:00 o’clock in the evening, then and there to act on the following articles:
ARTICLE #1: To see if the town will vote to raise and appropriate or otherwise provide the sum of $22,576.00 to pay the Salaries for all Elected Officials as detailed below or take any other action in relation thereto:
.................................................... FY’06.................... FY’2007
.............................................Appropriated.................Proposed
Elected Salaries:.........................................................................
Selectmen Salaries .................. 6,000.00............... 6,000.00
Moderator......................................76.00..................... 76.00
Assessor’s Salaries...................3,000.00.................3,000.00
Tax Collector............................4,170.00.................4,500.00........+330.00
Treasurer...................................6,000.00.................6,000.00
Town Clerk...............................2,800.00.................3,000.00........+200.00
.....TOTALS.....................22,046.00...........22,576.00......+530.00

2006-04-20T18:49:00.000-05:00

ARTICLE #2: To see if the town will vote to raise and appropriate or otherwise provide the sum of $79,424.00 to pay for General Government Expenses as detailed below or take any other action in relation thereto:
......................................................FY’06...................FY’2007
General Government:.........................................................................................
Selectmen’s Expenses....... 850.00......... 900.00.....+50.00
Town Counsel........................1,500.00.................1,500.00
Treasurer Expenses .............1,000.00.................1,000.00
Bank Charges...............................50.00......................50.00
Collector’s Expenses.................600.00....................650.00..............+50.00
Tax Taking/Tax Title............1,500.00.................1,500.00
Town Clerk Exp.........................850.00.................1,000.00............+150.00
Election & Registration..........1,500.00.................2,500.00..........+1,000.00
Planning Board Exp. .................500.00....................500.00
Hist. Comm. Exp........................200.00....................200.00
Moderator Expense.....................-0-............................-0-
Electric.....................................7,000.00..................9,000.00..........+2,000.00
Town Building.........................3,500.00.................3,500.00
Telephone................................4,100.00.................5,600.00...........+1,500.00
Gas-Heating.............................7,000.00.................9,000.00...........+2,000.00
Office Supplies.........................1,100.00.................1,100.00
Postage.....................................1,000.00..................1,234.00............+234.00
Assessor’s Exp.........................8,000.00................15,000.00..........+7,000.00
Printing........................................600.00.....................750.00.............+150.00
Legal Notice.............................1,800.00..................1,800.00
Office Manager........................8,606.00.................11,440.00...........+2,834.00
Accountant...............................3,500.00..................3,500.00
Asst. Town Clerk........................500.00.....................500.00
Tree Warden .................................-0-.............................-0-
Accountant Expenses..................200.00......................200.00
Town Computer Exp............–0-.............2,000.00..........+2,000.00
Council on Aging.......................1,000.00...................1,000.00
Council on Aging Van...............4,000.00 ................. 4,000.00..........
........TOTALS...................60,456.00.............79,424.00......+18,968.00
ARTICLE #3: To see if the town will vote to raise and appropriate or otherwise provide the sum of $291,322.00 for Town Highway Department Expenses as detailed below or take any other action in relation thereto:
...........................................................FY’06...................FY’2007
Highway Dept. Expenses....203,839.60............291,322.00.........+87,482.40
ARTICLE #4: To see if the town will vote to raise and appropriate or otherwise provide the sum of $774,969.00 for Savoy Elementary School and Adams/Cheshire School detailed below or take any other action in relation thereto:
...................................................FY’06............................FY’2007
Savoy/Adams/Cheshire.......759,963.00................774,969.00.........+15,006.00

2006-04-20T18:46:00.000-05:00

ARTICLE #5: To see if the town will vote to transfer the sum of $10,000.00 from the FY 2006 Savoy Elementary School Account to the FY 2007 Savoy Elementary School Account or take any other action in relation thereto:
ARTICLE#6: To see if the town will vote to authorize the School Committee to enter into a five-year contract with the school bus service for the Town, or to take any other action in relation thereto:
ARTICLE #7: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate or otherwise provide the sum of $93,000.00 for FY 2007 School Transportation or take any other action in relation thereto: $68,310.00 in FY’06 (up $24,690.00)
ARTICLE#8: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate or otherwise provide the sum of $75,316.00 for FY 2007 C. H. McCann Technical High School or take any other action in relation thereto: $72,129.00 in FY’06 (up $3,187.00)
ARTICLE #9: To see if the Town will vote to disapprove the $750,000.00 of indebtedness authorized by vote of the Northern Berkshire Vocational Regional School Committee for the purpose of reconstructing, remodeling and equipping the gymnasium, ventilation system, locker rooms and other areas within the District’s school building:
ARTICLE #10: To see if the town will vote to raise and appropriate or otherwise provide the sum of $21,764.50 for Health and Sanitation Expenses as detailed below or take any other action in relation thereto:
..............................................FY’06........................FY’2007
Health & Sanitation:.........................................................
Animal Inspector ...............165.00.......................165.00
Transfer Station.............14,000.00..................14,000.00
Transfer Attn. Sal............4,160.00....................4,160.00
N.Berk.Solid Waste.........1,057.50....................1,339.50..........+282.00
Transfer Station Repairs.....200.00.......................200.00
Transfer Bags ..................1,750.00....................1,900.00.........+150.00
......TOTALS..............21,332.50.............21,764.50.......+432.00
ARTICLE #11: To see if the town will vote to raise and appropriate or otherwise provide the sum of $31,868.00 for the Protection of Personal Property as detailed below or take any other action in relation thereto:
...........................................................FY’06....................FY’2007
Protection/Persons & Prop.:.....................................................
Police Chief Sal............................1,100.00..................1,100.00
Police Expense..............................1,000.00..................1,000.00
Police Safety Salary .....................3,000.00..................3,000.00
Fire Chief Sal................................1,100.00..................1,100.00
Fire Equip. & Maint. ............10,260.00................15,260.00......+5,000.00
Fire Fighter Personal Safety..........7,503.00..................7,503.00
Fire Station Maint..........................1,000.00.................1,000.00
Building Insp. Exp............................400.00....................400.00
Plumbing Inspector Expenses...........250.00....................250.00
Bd. Of Health Agent Exp...............1,000.00.................1,000.00
Civil Defense.........................................5.00........................5.00
Dog Officer Exp.................................250.00....................250.00
......TOTALS.................26,868.00.......... 31,868.00......+5,000.00

2006-04-20T18:43:00.000-05:00

ARTICLE #12: To see if the town will vote to raise and appropriate or otherwise provide the sum of $200.00 for FY 2007 Librarian’s Salary at Savoy Hollow Library or take any other action in relation thereto:
ARTICLE #13: To see if the town will vote to raise and appropriate or otherwise provide the sum of $200.00 for FY 2007 Librarian’s Expense Account at Savoy Hollow Library or take any other action in relation thereto: (+100.00 FY 04)
ARTICLE #14: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate or otherwise provide the sum of $100.00 for FY 2007 Health Care Agent or take any other action in relation thereto:
ARTICLE #15: To see if the town will vote to raise and appropriate or otherwise provide the sum of $154,433.51 for the Unclassified Expenses as detailed below or take any other action in relation thereto:
.......................................................FY’06..........................FY’2007
Unclassified Expenses:...................................................................................
Insurance General..................37,525.00.....................42,000.00.......+4,475.00
Health 32-B...................25,000.00.....................30,100.00 ......+5,100.00
County Retirement.......39,012.00..........33,060.00........ -5,952.00
Berk. Cty. Communications....3,688.24................6,454.42........+2,766.18
Workman’s Comp....................5,800.00......................5,900.00...........+100.00
Unemployment.........................2,500.00.......................2,500.00
B.R.P.C................................416.27...........................426.68............+10.41
Short Term Int. Exp.................500.00...........................500.00
New School Addition............17,817.41..........................17,817.41
F.I.C.A. Medicare....................6,000.00.........................6,000.00
Memorial Day Parade.................500.00............................600.00..........+100.00
Cemeteries Expense......................50.00.............................50.00
Veteran’s Graves.........................300.00...........................300.00
B & H Comp.Ser......................1,325.00........................1,325.00
Reserve Fund............................5,000.00........................5,000.00
Medicaid Secretary .....................150.00...........................150.00
Conservation Comm....................750.00............................750.00
Agricultural Comm..............-0-....................500.00........+500.00
Town Park Comm. ................. 1,000.00 .....................1,000.00
......TOTALS .........147,333.92...............154,433.51...+7,099.59
ARTICLE # 16: To see if the town will vote to create a revolving account to be pursuant to M.G.L. Chapter 44, Section 53E ½ such revolving to be used for payment of compensation for the Plumbing Inspector and Wire Inspector from fees collected. Total fees revolved for fiscal year 2007 not to exceed $1,500.00 each or take any other action in relation thereto:
ARTICLE # 17: To see if the town will vote to create a revolving account to be pursuant to M.G.L. Chapter 44, Section 53E ½ such revolving to be used for payment of compensation for the Building Inspector and Board of Health Agent from fees collected. Total fees revolved for fiscal year 2007 not to exceed $2,000.00 each or take any other action in relation thereto:
ARTICLE # 18: To see if the town will vote to create a Town Park Revolving Account to be pursuant to M.G.L. Chapter 44, Section 53E ½ the total fees revolved for fiscal year 2007 not to exceed $5,800.00 or take any other action in relation thereto:
ARTICLE#19: To see if the Town will vote to transfer the sum of $5,000.00 from the Free Cash Account to the Highway Department Garage Doors Replacement Account or take any other action in relation thereto: (Capital Improvement)

2006-04-20T18:39:00.000-05:00

ARTICLE#20: To see if the Town shall vote to have its Elected Treasurer position become an Appointed Treasurer position of the town or take any other action in relation thereto:
ARTICLE #21: To see if the town will vote, pursuant to the provisions of Section 4A of Chapter 40 of the M. G. L., to authorize the Selectmen to enter into an inter-municipal agreement with other cities, towns and political subdivision for the group purchasing of supplies, commodities and services that the town is authorized by law to purchase and to appropriate the sum of $400.00 as the town’s share of the expenses for the administration of the program for Fiscal Year 2007 or take any other action in relation thereto:
ARTICLE#22: To see if the Town will vote, pursuant to the provisions of Section 4A of Chapter 40 and Section 59A of Chapter 48 of the M.G.L., and to accept the provisions of Section 8G of Chapter 40 of the M.G.L., to authorize the selectmen to enter into mutual aid agreements with other governmental units for the provision of public health, public works, police, fire, animal control, inspectional services, emergency management and emergency medical services, in accordance with an inter-municipal mutual aid agreement to be entered into between the Town and the governmental units:
ARTICLE#23: To see if the town will vote to amend a Town By-law: Town Meetings: Section 1, Amendment 3.
FROM: "The Annual Town Meeting shall be held on the first Tuesday in May and the Annual Town Election on the second Tuesday in May."
TO: The Annual Town Meeting shall be held on the second Wednesday in May and the Annual Town Election on the third Wednesday in May:
FISCAL YEAR 2006
ARTICLE # 24: To see if the town will vote to transfer the sum of $60,000.00 from the Emergency Road Maintenance Account to the Stabilization Fund Account or take any other action in relation thereto:
ARTICLE # 25: To see if the town will vote to transfer the sum of $60,000.00 from the Stabilization Fund Account to the Emergency Road Maintenance Account or take any other action in relation thereto:
ARTICLE #26: To see if the town will vote to transfer the sum of $30,000.00 from the Highway STRAP Account to the Stabilization Fund Account or take any other action in relation thereto:
-END OF ARTICLES FOR ANNUAL TOWN MEETING--
This year the Select Board has opted to put in Article #3 as a lump sum for the Town to vote up or down. I requested the breakdown for Article 3 as information for the voters. The Select Board will explain the necessity of the one line item rather than the breakdown at the ATM. It is important for us, townspeople to know where the money is targeted prior to the Annual Town Meeting. Below is a breakdown of the appropriations for Article 3.
....................................................FY’06.........................FY’2007
Highway Dept. Expenses:.............................................................................
Hourly Pay .............................65,050.40...............115,464.00.....+50,413.60
Repairs & Supplies.................51,250.00..................61,250.00....+10,000.00
Snow & Ice.............................60,000.00..................70,000.00....+10,000.00
Road Maintenance..................12,720.00..................27,720.00....+15,000.00
Part Time Help.........................2,500.00....................2,587.50.............+87.50
Misc. Supplies (Office,Etc.).......520.00........................538.20..............+18.20
Vac.,Pers. & Sick Days...........9,699.20...................11,588.80...........+1,889.60
Highway Building Maint.........2,100.00.....................2,173.50................+73.50
.......TOTALS.................203,839.60...........291,322.00.....+87,482.40

2006-04-13T16:26:00.000-05:00

SAVE THE DATE

June 24, 2006, 2:00 PM. The Ladies Benevolent Society of Plainfield, Massachusetts will host a Victorian Tea with the Victorian Lady, Kandie Carle, in the 1890 Gilded Age, at the Plainfield Town Hall. Some people would simply call Kandie Carle a delightful entertainer, while others might see her as a comedic social historian. Whatever the label, Carle offers audiences a peek under the garments worn by Victorian Americans and insight into the manners of a time when people got more than just a four word e-mail for an invitation to dinner. This informal tea is age appropriate for audiences of 12 and older. Tickets are $12.00 for this limited seating performance and may be reserved by calling 743-8224 or 634-8030. from Janice Veronesi

2006-04-07T16:06:00.000-05:00

Select Board Meetings: The Select Board Meetings from March 21, March 28 and April 4 are combined.
Dan Wilk and Mrs. Nowicki met with the Select Board to discuss health insurance issues. Mr. Wilk said he had learned since the Town provides HMO insurance under Chapter 32b Section 16 of The General Laws of Massachusetts, a change to provide retired teacher’s with insurance would not have to go before the Town for approval. The lawyer for the Teacher’s Association and the Town agreed. Mr. Wilk said the Teacher’s Association does not have an insurance plan for retired teachers. Mrs. Nowicki said it would be easier to find replacements for retirees if the Town has an incentive such as an insurance plan.
Steve Wiseman from the Minuteman Company met with Emile Mazur to discuss holding an informational meeting for Savoy residents about the proposed windmill project in Savoy. The Select Board supported an informational meeting for the residents. A public informational meeting will be held at the Fire Station on Wednesday, May 10, at 7 PM.
Emile Mazur discussed budget proposals for the Annual Town Meeting. The Select Board agreed to take the $30,000 overrun from the Chapel Road Project (monies were received from the STRAP Grant) and put it back into the Stabilization Fund. The Stabilization Fund has approximately $60,000. Free Cash has $19,217 in the account. The Capital Improvement Account will receive $10,000. The excess of $9,217 is proposed to go into the Snow and Ice Account, which will increase the Account to $59,217. There will be a shortage of $3,000, which the Select Board is actively looking to fund.
Sue McGrath requested the Select Board change the day of the Annual Town Meeting and Town Elections to Wednesday. The State requires property taxes be paid May 1 and November 1. This state requirement requires Mrs. McGrath be at the Town Office to receive monies from the residents and interferes with the ATM and election when the May 1 is on a Tuesday. The Select Board agreed to have the Town Clerk research to see if the Town By-Law would need to be changed to have the ATM the second Wednesday of May, and the Town Election the third Wednesday of May.
The Select Board discussed proposing an article for the ATM to change the treasurer position from elected to appointed. Mr. Wagenknecht said there are qualified people in Town but no one wants to take on the job. "We need an individual who is willing to do the job." Beverly Cooper, appointed by the Select Board for one year, is currently filling the position. For the position to change from elected to appointed, the Select Board will put the issue before the townspeople on the warrant for the Annual Town Meeting. If approved, the Select Board will have to wait one full year before making an appointment.
After an active winter of plowing and keeping the roads safe for the community, the Highway Department is going to summer hours. They will be working 10 hour days, four days a week.
Not only is the Select Board working with the Fiance Committee to structure a budget, they are looking at issues that will have to be brought before the townspeople at the Special Town Meeting in June. by Brenda Smith

2006-04-07T15:55:00.000-05:00

The Savoy Memorial Day Committee is having its annual Bake, Book and Plant Sale on Saturday, April 22, from 9 AM to 3 PM at the Senior Center/Town Hall. Donations of plants and books can be dropped off Monday thru Friday from 9 Am to 1 PM. Baked goods can be dropped off Friday, April 21, between 9 AM and 1 PM, or Saturday morning. from the Memorial Day Committee

2006-04-05T15:04:00.000-05:00

Forest Viability Grant Program Applications Now Available

The Savoy Agricultural Commission wishes to advise Savoy residents that the Forest Viability Grant Program Applications are now available. The Massachusetts Executive Office of Environmental Affairs is now accepting applications from forest landowners interested in participating in the Forest Viability Grant Program. This program provides business planning assistance and implementation grants to landowners wishing to establish or improve forest-based businesses. Businesses can be based upon wood products, edible, medicinal, or decorative plants, or recreational, educational, or wildlife-related uses of the land.

Eligible landowners may receive up to $5,000 in technical assistance for the preparation of a Forest Viability Business Plan in return for a 5 year covenant protecting the land from development. Landowners with a Forest Viability Plan are then eligible to receive grants worth $250 per acre (up to $20,000) for implementation of the plan in return for a 20 year covenant. Any private landowner with at least 20 acres of forest land that is not currently protected by a deed restriction is eligible to apply. Applications are available at www.comm-pass.com. Under "Search for Solicitations" search for keyword "Forest Viability." The application deadline is May 1, 2006. For more information please contact:
Joseph Smith Bill Toomey, The Forest and Wood Products Institute, The Nature Conservancy, Mount Wachusett Community College, Westfield River Highlands Project, 978-630-9360 or 413-354-7780. jsmith@mwcc.mass.edu, btoomey@tnc.org. From Bob Veronesi

2006-03-30T14:01:00.000-05:00

SAVOY AGRICULTURAL COMMISSION THANKS TOWN RESIDENTS

The Savoy Agricultural Commission would like to thank the residents of Savoy for their enthusiastic and informative response to its January 2006 Agricultural Survey/questionnaire. Of the 95 resident responses received, thirty indicated that they are involved in some type of farming activity in Savoy. A summary of the results are currently being evaluated and studied by the commission. The results are an important first step for the recently created commission in developing a 2006 work plan to promote, protect and serve the farming needs of the residents of Savoy. Residents are cordially invited to provide additional input during Agricultural Commission meetings, held on the first Thursday of every month at 7:00 P.M. in the town hall.

Results of Savoy Agricultural Commission: Questionnaire (Jan 2006)

1. Do you farm? Yes_30_ No_65_

2. Products Farmed. Please check all that apply.

Hay_12_ Sheep_2_ Rabbits_1_ Wood_12_
Goats_4_ Chicken_7_ Dairy_1_ Horses_11_ Maple Syrup_5_ Beef_2_ Pigs_ Corn_ Vegetables_15_ Tree Farm_4_ Logging _8_ Donkey_1_ Mules_1_ Turkeys_1_ Llamas_1_ Blueberries_1_

3. Number of acres farmed: 290,100, 80, 60, 37, 25, 25, 24, 23, 20, 19, 16, 11, 10, 10, 10,8, 7, 6, 2.5, 1, 1, ¾, 1/4
Leased_16_ No Response _6_

4. Is your land in: Chapter 61_0_ 61A_5_ 61B_0_ APR _0_

5. Do you sell $500.00 or more of product? Yes_13_ No_15_ No Response_2_

6. Are you a farm bureau member? Yes_12_ No_18_

7. What are your farming related concerns/needs?
· 16 no response
· Lack of neighbor understanding/need town approved animal cages
· neighbor plows into fences and made a ditch that cuts off access to water well
· weather
· who else farm the same products in Savoy – networking
· how to help improve the natural habitat
· organic
· too many laws
· continuation of agricultural commission
· applicable regulations
· want less regulations
· loss of fields and encroachment of houses
8. What can the Savoy Agricultural Commission do to assist you?
16 no response
Inform/teach
Keep me informed of any new laws and/or concerns regarding farming in Savoy
Give advise on setting up petting zoo for children
Keep it simple
Stop trying to add new regulations
Continue the agriculture commission
Provide information concerning small farm operations
Lower taxes
Assist in follow-up on APR application
Just be there
Look into establishing a farm market
Source of info related to farming

9. If the commission publishes a farming newsletter would you be interested in receiving it?

Yes _28_ No _1_ No Response _1_

10. What type of information will help you?
· No response _20_
· A section about items for sale and wanted
· New opportunities
· Any information you feel that should be brought to our attention
· Information on small farms
· Grant information
· Price quote on livestock and market reports
· Planting tips, etc.
· All farm related material
· Produce market places
· Ag events

11. How can the agricultural commission best notify you?
E-mail _8_ Savoy Mountain News_12_ Direct Mail _4_ Transcript _3_
Berkshire Eagle _6_

The following comments were received from responders who checked off that they do not farm:

What are your farming related concerns/needs?
· Keep the land for farming and the forest intact
· Protect animals and land from their owners

8. What can the Savoy Agricultural Commission do to assist you?
· Help keep development down
· Resist any attempt to industrialize Savoy

9. If the commission publishes a farming newsletter would you be interested in receiving it?
· Yes _12_

10. What information would help you?
· All regular updates on anything pertinent to farming.
· How to get started
· Laws – federal and local
· Manage forest

General Comments:
· Not farming now, but considering it.
· Just a garden now. In the future we desire to farm. from Bob Veronesi

2006-03-29T18:00:00.000-05:00

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.

2006-03-27T14:07:00.000-05:00

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

2006-03-16T11:57:00.000-05:00

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.

2006-03-16T11:56:00.000-05:00

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.

2006-03-12T11:09:00.000-05:00

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

2006-03-12T10:50:00.000-05:00

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

2006-02-22T12:52:00.000-05:00

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

2006-02-22T11:17:00.000-05:00

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

2006-02-22T10:52:00.000-05:00

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

2006-02-17T12:24:00.000-05:00

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.

2006-02-16T15:47:00.000-05:00

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

2006-02-15T16:10:00.000-05:00

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

2006-02-04T15:57:00.000-05:00

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

2006-01-19T15:42:00.000-05:00

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

2006-01-04T13:22:00.000-05:00

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

2005-12-30T17:12:00.000-05:00

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

2005-12-14T18:14:00.000-05:00

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

2005-11-17T15:25:00.000-05:00

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

2005-11-11T13:27:00.000-05:00

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

2005-11-09T11:29:00.000-05:00

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

2005-11-05T16:57:00.000-05:00

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

2005-11-05T16:54:00.000-05:00

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

2005-10-20T17:42:00.000-05:00

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

2005-10-20T16:11:00.000-05:00

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

2005-10-05T09:09:00.000-05:00

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

2005-10-04T15:18:00.000-05:00

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.

2005-09-29T12:57:00.000-05:00

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

2005-09-29T12:45:00.000-05:00

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

2005-09-24T17:46:00.000-05:00

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

2005-09-22T18:32:00.000-05:00

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

2005-09-07T17:19:00.000-05:00

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

2005-09-07T16:48:00.000-05:00

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.

2005-09-07T14:48:00.000-05:00

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

2005-08-22T11:08:00.000-05:00

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.

2005-08-21T08:49:00.000-05:00

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

2005-08-21T08:45:00.000-05:00

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

2005-08-17T17:42:00.000-05:00

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

2005-08-09T18:24:00.000-05:00

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.

2005-08-04T12:09:00.000-05:00

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

2005-07-24T16:35:00.000-05:00

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

2005-07-23T11:39:00.000-05:00

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

2005-07-11T12:07:00.000-05:00

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

2005-07-08T12:23:00.000-05:00

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

2005-07-07T17:31:00.000-05:00

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.

2005-07-05T14:45:00.000-05:00

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

2005-06-29T18:21:00.000-05:00

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

2005-06-29T10:25:00.000-05:00

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:

2005-06-27T18:31:00.000-05:00

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.

2005-06-26T15:20:00.000-05:00

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

2005-06-26T15:19:00.000-05:00

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

2005-06-26T15:11:00.000-05:00

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

2005-06-15T15:22:00.000-05:00

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

2005-06-15T15:11:00.000-05:00

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

2005-06-15T13:38:00.000-05:00

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

2005-06-13T08:19:00.000-05:00

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/

2005-06-11T14:34:00.000-05:00

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

2005-06-11T14:26:00.000-05:00

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

2005-06-09T21:17:00.000-05:00

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

2005-06-06T06:37:00.000-05:00

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

2005-06-01T14:06:00.000-05:00

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.

2005-06-01T14:00:00.000-05:00

The 2005 Memorial Day Raffle winners are as follows: First - $250.00, Kim Witek; Second - $100.00, Nichole DeMastrie; Third - Diane Daniels. All the winners are from Savoy. The Memorial Day Committee wishes to thank everyone for their support and participation. Information provided by Sue McGrath