Tuesday, June 13, 2023, at 6:00 PM Development Review Board PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

The Newfane Development Review Board (DRB) will hold an organizational meeting on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, at 6:00 PM at Newfane Town Office, 555 Vermont Route 30 in Newfane, and via Zoom. The hearing is to consider organizational matters of the board and to meet with a prospective applicant, Beckley Gaudette, who has asked for a pre-application informational meeting about a possible subdivision of undeveloped property on Otis Lane, Tax Lot ID# D001.

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Newfane Development Review Board
Erica Walch, Secretary
May 23, 2023

PLANNING COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES of May 11, 2023

TOWN OF NEWFANE
PLANNING COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES of May 11, 2023

COMMISSION MEMBERS PRESENT:
Kate Gehring, Nolan Edgar, Jane Douglas

OTHERS PRESENT:
Matthew Turek, Rhonda Calhoun, Jeanette Perry, Mary Topitzer

CALL TO ORDER
Kate called the meeting to order at 6:17 pm.

ADDITIONS/AMENDMENTS TO THE AGENDA
None.

MINUTES
A motion was made by Nolan and seconded by Jane to approve the regular meeting minutes of April 13 and April 27 as presented. The motion carried unanimously by voice vote.

UNSCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
None.

OLD BUSINESS

Floodplain & River Corridor Zoning bylaw revision proposal:
Kate opened discussion on Jane’s tabled motion that the Commission approve the Zoning Bylaw amendment and pass it along to the Selectboard. Rhonda Calhoun inquired about the process of the amendment to the Zoning Bylaw. Rhonda, Matthew Turek, and Mary Topitzer reported that they felt the April 27, 2023 Planning Commission public hearing on the Zoning Bylaw amendment did not answer their questions about the changes to the Zoning Bylaw. Kate called for a vote on the motion. The motion passed unanimously by voice vote.

Bylaw Modernization Grant update:
Kate gave update on the Bylaw Modernization Grant. The Town has signed the contract for the grant. There will be a kickoff introduction meeting at the next Planning Commission meeting on May 25, 2023. Jane agrees to post on Front Porch Forum asking for citizen participation on the Bylaw Modernization Grant committee.

Report back from Town Meetings and/or Selectboard meetings:
None.

Short-term Rentals:
None.

Development Review Board (DRB) update:
None.

Broadband update, Deerfield Valley Communications District:
Jane gave update on recent work with the Deerfield Valley Communications Union District. Jane was elected to the executive board committee.


Planning Commission Emails:
Commissioners discussed options for creating Planning Commission email addresses. Jane will consult with The Selectboard about sharing a Google suite.

NEW BUSINESS

Agenda setting for May 25 meeting:
Commissioners discussed items to be put on the May 25, 2023, Planning Commission meeting agenda.

CORRESPONDENCE
None.

ADJOURNMENT
A motion was made by Nolan and seconded by Jane to adjourn the meeting at 7:06 pm.
The motion carried unanimously by voice vote.

Respectfully Submitted,
Nolan Edgar

Planning Commission Regular Meeting Agenda May 25, 2023

Time: 6:00 pm Location: Newfane Town Office & Zoom 

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AGENDA

  1. Call To Order
  2. Additions to the Agenda
  3. Review and Approve Minutes for May 11 regular meeting.
  4. Old Business
    • Windham Regional Commission – Check-in
    • Bylaw Modernization Grant – Update / Kickoff
    • Floodplain & River Corridor Zoning bylaw revision proposal – Update
    • Report back from Town Meetings and/or Selectboard meetings
    • Short-term rentals – continued discussion of Granicus and other STR monitoring tools.
    • Development Review Board (DRB) update
    • Broadband update, Deerfield Valley Communication District
    • Planning Commission emails

5.  New Business

    • Report-back from Southern Vermont Economy Summit
    • Agenda setting for May 25 meeting.
    • Community Center brainstorm.

6. Correspondence

7. Adjournment

 

Draft of Selectboard Minutes Monday, May 15th, 2023

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BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT:  Angela Sanborn, Jeffrey Chevalier, Mike Fitzpatrick, and Katy Johnson-Aplin.
Absent: Ann Golob

OTHERS PRESENT:   Jane Douglas (Planning Commission), Pamela Spaulding, George LeGace,   Ian Forgey, Austin Rice (BCTV), and Wannetta Powling (Administrative Assistant.)
Zoom:  Jay Wilson (Road Foreman), Kate Gehring (Planning Commission)

CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 pm by Selectboard Chair Angela Sanborn.

CONFIRM PROPERLY WARNED:
Powling confirmed the meeting had been properly warned.

ADDITIONS/AMENDMENTS TO AGENDA:  

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:

  1. May 1, 2023, regular meeting minutes.

Johnson-Aplin made a motion to accept the May 1, 2023, minutes. Chevalier seconded the motion.
Motion passed 4/0.

ROAD FOREMAN’S & ROAD COMMISSIONER’S REPORT:

  1. We installed the emergency 5’ plastic culvert on Wiswall Hill Rd. That should work well for a couple of years until we get funding for a cement box culvert.

 

  1. I spoke with Bill Jewell and got some information on how to fill out the forms that we needed for the Gravel Pit permit, and he is still working on his part.

 

  1. We picked up all the Greenup bags last week and ended up with 130 bags, and with all the other loose material, we ended up with 1600 lbs and five tires, less than for the past years.

 

  1. I spoke with Ron Bell, our engineer on the Salt shed and Eddy Rd culvert; he is going to try and get something out this week to us.

 

  1. The pre-construction meeting for the Depot Rd. Box culvert is May 24th at 10:30 at the Town Office.

 

  1. I have a few things to put out to bid, and I will try to get them out so you can open them at your next meeting.

Fitzpatrick made a motion to accept the Road Foreman’s report, and Johnson-Aplin seconded the motion.

Discussion:
Sanborn asked if any updates for the Davis property on S. Wardsboro Road were discussed at the May 1st meeting.  Wilson mentioned a meeting scheduled for Friday with Cotton, Fitzpatrick, and Williams.

The vote was called. Motion passed 4/0.

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT’S REPORT: 

  1. The Lister’s office has a form that needs to be signed by the Chair of the Selectboard; It is with the State of Vermont’s recommendation that each town files an extension in case the new VT-PIE system has errors in creating the abstract grand list.
    • There needs to be a motion to authorize the chair to sign.
  2. DV Fiber has a form that needs to be signed by the Chair of the Selectboard.
  • This allows DV Fiber to obtain matching funds (Newfane’s $15,000) from Vermont Community Broadband Board.
  1. Lori Damato from the Newfane Inn is applying for the State of Vermont Economic Development Grant.  With the grant request, they are requesting two letters of recommendation.  Attached is the letter from the Windham Regional Commission; she is also asking the Town of Newfane to write a recommendation letter.
  2. The Personal Policy is available tonight for readopting and the Selectboard signatures.

Chevalier made a motion to accept the Administrative Assistance report, and Fitzpatrick seconded.


Discussion:

#1)       Johnson-Aplin made a motion to authorize Chair Sanborn to sign the extension in case the new VT-PIE system has errors for the Listers and Chevalier seconded. The motion passed 3/0/1. Sanborn abstained.

#2)       Fitzpatrick made a motion to authorize Chair Sanborn to sign the support for DV Fiber to obtain matching funds (Newfane’s $15,000) from the Vermont Community Broadband Board, and Chevalier seconded.
The motion passed 3/0/1. Sanborn abstained.

#3)       Fitzpatrick made a motion to authorize Chair Sanborn to sign the letter of support for the new owners of the Newfane Inn. The motion passed 3/0/1. Sanborn abstained.

#4)       Chevalier and Johnson-Aplin reminded the Board that this had been previously tabled until the June 5th meeting; to allow time to review and compare the recommendations to the policy.

The Vote was calledMotion passed 4/0.

COMMITTEE REPORT
Planning Commission updates – Jane Douglas – Kate Gering  

At the Thursday night meeting, the Planning Commission voted to approve submitting the proposed Flood Plain River Corridor By-Law changes to the Selectboard. Powling will forward the documents to the Selectboard.
Thursday, May 25th, at 6 pm, during the Planning Commission meeting, there will be a kick-off meeting with Sue Westa from the Windham Regional Commission to discuss By-Law Modernization. The Selectboard is invited to attend the presentation.

Douglas will send an email to Golob to see if she is available.

SCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: Ruck-Up, Inc. – George LeGace

Since its doors opened in 2010, the non-profit has served all veterans in New Hampshire, Vermont, and Massachusetts.
This is operated with volunteers, with some Vets helping others in need. For the third year, LeGace has asked the Selectboard for permission to hold a “Coin-Drop” on July 15th (rain date July 16th) in Newfane to benefit all veterans needing help. Funds raised will help them with shelter, food, companionship, and mental health counseling. Other services are support programs and assistance to obtain services from local, state, and Federal agencies.

Other agencies have been contacted and await their permission. The Selectboard agreed to allow the Coin Drop.

UNSCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
None

OLD BUSINESS:
Cannabis Updates: (Johnson-Aplin) None
TBD at a further date when we hear from the DRB.

Town Beautification (Chevalier)
Discussion:

A press Release will be going out soon, giving details about the bench contest and how to submit Ideas and applications. Brookside is a proposed site for a bench near Hunter Brook Road. Chevalier is to contact the Town Clerk for further information and to get the owner’s permission for the possible placement of a bench.  I want to schedule a site visit for the proposed garden and recreation area along the Dover Road properties damaged in the 2011 flood. Chevalier will contact Wilson for possible dates and get back to the Board members.

 

Discuss ideas for a 250-year celebration of Newfane’s founding. (Johnson-Aplin) –

Sanborn to contact members of Newfane Anew to see if they would like to be involved with plans for the celebration. Sanborn will report back.

Powling will contact Richard Merck to invite him to come back and meet with the Board to clarify information regarding the dates for Newfane and the 250-year celebration.

 

FEMA Buy-Out of the South Newfane General Store (SNGS) – (Golob)

No updates from FEMA.

ARPA: (Sanborn and Golob)
None

 

PROPERTY at 521 VT RT 30:

The State of Vermont has started to remove hazardous material from the site.

Remove from the agenda; Updates will be determined as needed.

NEW BUSINESS
Short-Term Rental Discussion-Johnson-Aplin
In the spring of 2021, an ordinance for short-term rental was drafted this still needs to move forward. Now is the time when it is in the News; on May 10th, eighteen other towns are looking at creating an ordinance to monitor how these properties impact other long-term rentals and properties in the area.

A Planning Commissioner has spoken with Wilmington and Dover, where they have some registries using a service to gather the extent of information for them.

Discussion ensued:

Kate Gehring, Chair of the Planning Commission, joined the meeting.

Johnson-Aplin mentioned that Eric Durocher is a Newfane resident and Town of Dover employee and could provide valuable information to the continued discussion.

CORRESPONDENCE:
None

Fitzpatrick, who attended remotely, left the meeting at 6:40 pm.

PAY ORDERS

1.       Payroll Warrant # 11619                               Amount $       5,579.05
2.       Payroll Warrant # 11622                               Amount $          658.79
3.       Payroll Warrant # 11623                               Amount $       7,597.39
4.       Payroll Warrant # 11624                               Amount $       5,162.95
5.       Account Payable # 23025                             Amount $     56.934.08

Chevalier made a motion to approve Pay Orders. Johnson-Aplin seconded the motion.
Motion passed 3/0.

ADJOURN:
Johnson-Aplin made a motion to adjourn. The meeting was adjourned at 6:55 P.M.

Respectfully Submitted,
Wannetta Powling, Administrative Assistant
KJA

 

 

 

 

Williamsville Hall Meeting Minutes, 5/8/2023

Attendees:
Steve Levine, Jonathon Julian, Dale Stevens, Penny Tuerk, Maggie Kemp, and Kate Conway

The meeting was officially called to order @ 7:30 pm

Treasurer’s Report

Capital Fund: $27, 590.73
As of July 1st, $20,000 will be added
               Hall Fund: $3,056.01  

Old & On-going Business

Movie Night: Friday Night Movies

-this Friday, May 12th @ 7:30, 3,000 Years of Longing
We discussed future times/dates for movie night. Dale is not available on the third Friday of the month.

 The garden area outside the front door:
                               Maggie will take care of the maintenance

Breakfast:
First breakfast is to be Thursday, June 22nd, 2023 @ 8:00-10:30
Maggie will contact Jim and Pam about a poster and advertising.
Jonathon asked about getting pancakes going for breakfast.

Hall cleaning:
Ask Adam to clean the Hall before the RRP production at the end of the month.
Kate will do this.

Repairs:
Steve reviewed Daniel’s quote for ameliorating the mold. It had initially seemed high, yet after re-reading it as well as Dylan’s report, what Daniel proposes to do meets the needs of taking care of professionally dealing with the mold. We need to get another quote before proceeding. Then the board needs to approve it.

Work to be completed. Randy Clark needs to finish up work on the stairway outside the
kitchen. Maggie contacted him.

Cellar-
we still need to find someone to work on the posts in the basement. Jonathon suggested Weston. He will check in with him about doing

New computer?
Dale found a reasonably priced, basic laptop to be used only for Hall events. It was unanimously agreed upon to make the purchase. (Steve has bought it).

Meeting adjourned @ 8:30 pm

 

 

 

 

 

 

May 15, 2023, Selectboard Agenda

Please Note: Newfane will now require Zoom participants to remain muted. If they wish to be recognized, they will need to raise their hand, and the Chair will recognize them before being un-muted.

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  • CALL MEETING TO ORDER   
  •   CONFIRM PROPERLY WARNED 
  • ADDITIONS/AMENDMENTS TO THE AGENDA
  • APPROVAL OF MINUTES
  1. May 1st, 2023, Regular Meeting
  • ROAD FOREMAN’S & ROAD COMMISSIONER’S REPORT
  •     ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT’S REPORT     
  •     COMMITTEE REPORT 
  • SCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC                                                                                                              Ruck-Up Coin Drop –Mrs. George  La Grace (or representative
  • UNSCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC 
  • OLD BUSINESS / FOLLOW-UP ITEMS (10 Minutes per topic)
    1. Cannabis Updates: (Johnson-Aplin)
    2. Town Beautification suggestions (Chevalier)
    3. Discuss ideas for a 250-year celebration of Newfane’s founding. (Johnson-Aplin).
    4. FEMA buyout of South Newfane General Store (Golob)
    5. ARPA Funds Updates (Golob)
    6. Cleanup of Property at 521 VT Route 30, Newfane. (Golob)
  • NEW BUSINESS                                                                                                                                                    Short-Term Rental Discussion
  • CORRESPONDENCE 
  • PAY ORDERS

  • ADJOURN

MINUTES of April 27, 2023, PLANNING COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING

COMMISSION MEMBERS PRESENT: Kate Gehring, Nolan Edgar, Jane Douglas

OTHERS PRESENT: Ken Estey, Jeff Chevalier (Newfane SB), Jack Fredericks, Andy Snelling, Matthew Turek, Elizabeth Martin, Alyssa Sabetto (WRC), John Broker-Campbell (WRC), Debbie Barry, Merle Tessier (Newfane ZA), Angela Sanborn (Newfane SB), Ann Golob (Newfane SB)

CALL TO ORDER
Kate called the meeting to order at 6:00 pm.

NEW BUSINESS

  1. Floodplain & River Corridor Zoning Bylaw Amendment – Public Hearing on proposed Amendment
    Kate opened the hearing and introduced the amendment. Alyssa Sabetto from the Windham Regional Commission gave a brief overview and answered questions from the public. John Broker-Campbell from the Windham Regional Commission also spoke about the amendment and answered questions from the public. A motion was made by Jane and seconded by Kate that the Commission approve the Zoning Bylaw amendment and pass it along to the Selectboard. During discussion of the motion, Andy Snelling pointed out that the vote on the amendment was not warned. Commissioners decided to table the motion until the next meeting.

ADJOURNMENT
A motion was made by Jane and seconded by Nolan to adjourn the meeting at 6:41 pm.

The motion carried unanimously by voice vote.

Respectfully Submitted,
Nolan Edgar

MINUTES of April 13, 2023, PLANNING COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING

COMMISSION MEMBERS PRESENT: Kate Gehring, Nolan Edgar, Max Vandervliet, Jane Douglas

OTHERS PRESENT:

CALL TO ORDER
Kate called the meeting to order at 5:15 pm.

ADDITIONS/AMENDMENTS TO THE AGENDA
None.

MINUTES
A motion was made by Nolan and seconded by Jane to approve the March 23, 2023, regular meeting minutes as presented. The motion carried unanimously by voice vote.

UNSCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
None.

OLD BUSINESS
Southern Vermont Economy Summit Attendance:
Nolan reported that the Commissioners have all been registered to attend the SVES. Nolan will forward email from Wannetta with tickets to the other Commissioners.

Bylaw Modernization Grant update:
Kate gave a brief update on the status of the Bylaw Modernization Grant. A motion was made by Jane and seconded by Kate to approve the agreement between Windham Regional Commission and the Town of Newfane, with the Planning Commission acting as the Town appointee. The motion carried unanimously by voice vote. Kate will check with the Windham Regional Commission to see if Sue Westa or someone else will come meet with the Commission in early May.

Report-back from Town Meetings and/or Selectboard meetings:
None.

Broadband update, Deerfield Valley Communications District:
Jane gave an update on recent work with the Deerfield Valley Communications Union District.

Development Review Board (DRB) update:
None.

Short-term Rentals – Granicus Demo:
Max shared the Granicus demo presentation with the Commission. Commissioners discussed the presentation and Granicus. Max will look into AirDNA. Max will share the Granicus slideshow file with the other Commissioners. Commissioners agree to continue the Short-term rental discussion.

Floodplain & River Corridor Zoning bylaw – Public Hearing planning:
Commissioners planned for the upcoming public hearing. Kate and Nolan will meet with Alyssa Sabetto before the hearing date. The commission agrees not to hold a regular meeting after the hearing on April 27, 2023.

NEW BUSINESS
Planning Commission emails:
Kate will ask the Selectboard about their timeline for new email/website system. Commissioners will discuss emails at next meeting.

CORRESPONDENCE
None.

ADJOURNMENT
A motion was made by Jane and seconded by Nolan to adjourn the meeting at 6:23 pm. The motion carried unanimously by voice vote.

Respectfully Submitted,
Nolan Edgar

Notice Of Newfane Conservation Commission Meeting (5/10/2023)

MEETING

Pursuant to the provisions of 24 V.S.A. Section 4504(b), notice is hereby given that the Conservation Commission within and for the Town of Newfane will on the

7th day of June 2023, at 5:00 o’clock in the p.m.

meet at the Newfane Town Forest in said Town to conduct the following business: Walk the Town Forest with William Guenther, Newfane Town Tree Warden, and consider possible timber harvests.

by: Carol Hesselbach
Conservation Commission Secretary
May 10, 2023
Copy: Town Office, Williamsville Post Office, WW Building Supply, Moore Free Library,
Conservation Commission Members, Newfane Website

Planning Commission Regular Meeting Agenda May 11, 2023

Time: 6:00 pm Location: Newfane Town Office & Zoom

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AGENDA

  1. Call To Order
  2. Additions to the Agenda
  3. Review and Approve Minutes for April 13 and April 27 meetings.
  4. Old Business
    • Floodplain & River Corridor Zoning bylaw revision proposal – Vote
    • Bylaw Modernization Grant update
    • Report back from Town Meetings and/or Selectboard meetings
    • Short-term rentals – continued discussion of Granicus and other STR monitoring tools.
    • Development Review Board (DRB) update
    • Broadband update, Deerfield Valley Communication District
    • Planning Commission emails
  5. New Business
  6. Agenda setting for May 25 meeting.
  7. Adjournment

 

Selectboard Regular Meeting Monday, May 1st, 2023

Unapproved -DRAFT
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BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT:  Angela Sanborn, Jeffrey Chevalier, Ann Golob, Mike Fitzpatrick (by phone), and Katy Johnson-Aplin.

OTHERS PRESENT:   Terry and John Davis, Phoebe Connolly, Priscilla Cotton, Austin Rice (BCTV), and Wannetta Powling (Administrative Assistant).

Zoom:  Jay Wilson (Road Foreman), David Cotton, T (?)

CALL TO ORDER: 
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 pm by Selectboard Chair Angela Sanborn.

CONFIRM PROPERLY WARNED:
Powling confirmed the meeting had been properly warned.

ADDITIONS/AMENDMENTS TO AGENDA:  
Golob requested that Terry and John Davis be moved to follow the Road Foreman’s report.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:

  1. March 20, 2023, regular meeting minutes.

Golob made a motion to accept the March 20, 2023, minutes (as amended). Fitzpatrick seconded the motion. Motion passed 4/0/1. Sanborn abstained.

  1. April 17, 2023, regular meeting minutes.

Golob made a motion to accept April 17, 2023, minutes; Chevalier seconded the motion.
Motion passed 3/0/2 Johnson-Aplin, and Fitzpatrick abstained.

ROAD FOREMAN’S & ROAD COMMISSIONER’S REPORT:

  1. We met with the River Engineer and VTrans at the large stone culvert on Wiswall Hill and got a permit to put in a plastic culvert that will get us through the next couple of years until we can get funding for a box culvert.
  2. We are still working on getting the information together for the gravel pit Act 250 permit that Bill Jewell is working on.
  3. I got the price for the white fog lines on the blacktop. Poirier Guidelines (the company that has been doing our painting) $ .08 per foot. L&D Safety –Marking $ .14 per foot. Poirier will be doing our stop bars and speed limits.
  4. Nothing to update you on the Salt shed or Eddy Rd culvert.
  5. The bid was awarded to Renaud Bros. for the Depot Rd Box culvert.
  6. At our annual meeting with VTrans after the Town meeting, we were not in line for a couple more years for either a Class 2 pavement grant or structures grant since we had both recently. I put in for both grants, one for paving Grimes Hill and the other for Loop Rd. Box Culver. I was told that we were awarded the Loop Rd since some of the towns that were due for grants didn’t apply—box Culvert for $200,000.
  7. We had minor water damage this morning on Timson Hill, River Road, and French Cabin; most of it was minor, and it should be fixed up in a couple of days if it stops raining.

Johnson-Aplin made a motion to accept the Road Foreman’s report, and Golob seconded the motion.

Discussion:
#3 Line Striping; Wilson was asked if the line striping was put out to bid. Due to the time frame and the limited number of qualified contractors, it was not warranted. If we fail to line up the work, one of the contractors will be in Maine all summer.

Fitzpatrick made a motion to accept Poirier Line Stripping at eight cents per foot; Golob seconded. Motion passed 5/0.

#2 Gravel Pit; Contact was made with one of the homeowners closest to where the sound study testing was conducted; they agreed to write a letter of support to be sent with the permit application.

The vote was called. Motion passed 5/0.

Scheduled Members of the Public:
Terry and John Davis: Residents of S. Wardsboro Rd. They wanted to discuss the water runoff and the drainage issues to the road in front of their property and the fact that it has drained into the yard, garage, and house. It is a combination of nature and maintenance of the road that has caused significant deterioration to the floor in the garage and erosion to the property. The neighbors know the issues and would be willing to meet with Jay Wilson, Christopher Williams, Michael Fitzpatrick, and John and Terry Davis to discuss options to prevent further harm.

Discussion ensued.

Wilson will propose a policy for dealing with concerns of drainage issues now and in the future. And report back to the Selectboard.

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT’S REPORT: 

  1. Carol has been out sick; we have all been working together to cover that side of the office while she has been out. I have an Alcohol and Tobacco license for review for the Newfane Store; this will need to be done tonight to ensure they can sell these items tomorrow.

2.   The Municipal Checklist for Internal Control Annual review is available for the Selectboard             sign tonight. (This is for the Treasurer’s Control and the process she follows.)

  1. Archer Mayer has submitted a letter requesting ARPA funds for the (NBFD) NewBrook Fire Department. I have included copies of the letter with my report.
  2. A Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grant form has been granted an extension. This needs to have a motion to sign, accepting May 29, 2024.
  3. Windham County Humane Society has sent the New Contract for services for 2023-202. This is in the budget that was already approved. This, too, needs a motion to sign the contract.
  4. The Personnel Policy is available tonight for readopting and the Selectboard signatures.

Chevalier made a motion to accept the Administrative Assistance report, and Johnson-Aplin seconded.

Discussion:

#1 Golob asked if this needed to have a BLC agenda.
This is a last-minute request for an existing application for renewal. The renewal application and fees were already submitted online to the State of Vermont.

Golob made a motion to approve the renewal of liquor and tobacco application for the Newfane Store. Chevalier seconded.

the motion. Motion passed 5/0.

Golob made a motion to authorize the Town Clerk- Hesselbach to approve the renewal of the existing Liquor and Tobacco application and to notify the Board of this process. To submit a new application to the Board of Liquor Control for approval, Fitzpatrick seconded the motion.
Motion passed 5/0.

#2 Golob made a motion to authorize the Chair to sign Internal Control Annual Review. Johnson- Aplin seconded the motion.
Motion passed 5/0.

#3 Fitzpatrick made a motion to approve the NBFD request for $ 100,000 from ARPA funds. Golob seconded the motion.
Motion passed 4/0/1. Sanborn abstained.

#4 Selectboard reviewed the letter for the Mitigation Grant extension. Golob made a motion to authorize the chair to sign on behalf of the Selectboard. Fitzpatrick seconded the motion. Motion passed 5/0.

#5 Johnson-Aplin made a motion to authorize the chair to sign the WCHS contract. Golob seconded the motion.
Motion passed 5/0.

#6 VLCT has sent the Selectboard members a New Personnel Policy and recommendations for changes due to the smaller size of Newfane and the number of its employees. It was recommended that two members of the Selectboard, the Road Foreman and Kate Gehring from the Planning Commission, compare the policies and report to the Selectboard at the June 5th meeting.

The vote was called. Motion passed 5/0.

COMMITTEE REPORT
None

SCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
Phoebe Connolly: Plans for L.G.H.S. Prom to share information regarding the Leland and Gray Union High School (LGUHS) Senior Prom that will be held at the Newfane Union Hall on May 20th, 2023. Photos will be taken on Newfane Common, and the public is welcome to participate in the photo-taking and the grand march.

Dinner this year will be served as part of the festivities for the students. Music and dancing will follow until 10:30; this year’s theme is the “Enchanted Forrest” The prom planning committee is trying to repurpose decorations, flowers, and plants. If anyone has items they would like to donate, they are welcome to contact Phoebe Connolly at LGUHS.

UNSCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
None

OLD BUSINESS:
Cannabis Updates: (Johnson-Aplin) None

Town Beautification (Chevalier)
Discussion:
A press Release will be going out later this week giving details about the bench contest and how to submit ideas and applications.

Discuss ideas for a 250-year celebration of Newfane’s founding. (Johnson-Aplin) – None

FEMA Buy-Out of the South Newfane General Store (SNGS)– (Golob)
No updates from FEMA.
The SNGS had a recent inspection for bats (an endangered animal), and no bats were found; otherwise, there would be no work allowed while the building was occupied. Golob mentioned that the BRELLA insurance application had been submitted.

ARPA: (Sanborn and Golob)
None

SOCIAL APPROPRIATIONS
Tabled until the budget season before the warning goes out, November/December.

PROPERTY at 521 VT RT 30 (Golob)
For the cleanup of the hazardous waste, waiting for the State to finalize the removal, and that has not happened due to a delay on the trucks collecting such materials. The State of Vermont contractor hired to remove the hazardous material from the property will provide an estimate for the additional site cleanup. Golob mentioned that she had gotten advice from VLCT where the Town is not allowed to place liens on properties. They did mention ways to enforce the cleanup of the property but will have to wait until we find out who owns the property.

Discussion followed.
No decision or action was made.

NEW BUSINESS
None

EXECUTIVE SESSION:                                                                                                                                    Executive session to discuss an evaluation of an employee under the provisions of
Title 1 VSA §313(a)(3).

Golob made a motion to go into an Executive session to discuss a personnel issue, and Fitzpatrick seconded. The motion passed 5/0.
Entered the executive session at 7:11 p.m.
Golob made a motion to leave the Executive session, and Chevalier seconded. The motion passed 5/0.
Exited executive session at 7:45 p.m.

The Selectboard’s decision is not to terminate Powling, and it was agreed that she would continue working with the Town of Newfane as Administrative Assistant.

CORRESPONDENCE:
Moore Free Library sent a Thank you card for the recent donation made from the ARPA funds.

Fitzpatrick, who attended remotely, left the meeting at 7:48 pm.

PAY ORDERS

1.       Payroll Warrant # 11618                               Amount $       5,106.44
2.       Account Payable # 23025                             Amount $     977,965.71

Golob made a motion to approve Pay Orders. Chevalier seconded the motion. Motion passed 4/0.

ADJOURN:
Golob made a motion to adjourn. The meeting was adjourned at 7:55 P.M.

Respectfully Submitted,
Wannetta Powling, Administrative Assistant
ALS

 

May 1st, 2023, 6:00 Selectboard Meeting Agenda

Please Note: Newfane will now require Zoom participants to remain muted. If they wish to be recognized, they will need to raise their hand, and the Chair will recognize them before being un-muted.

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/97227911757#success
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www.zoom.us/joinameeting       ID: 972 2791 1757           Passcode: 352680

  • CALL MEETING TO ORDER
  • CONFIRM PROPERLY WARNED
  • ADDITIONS/AMENDMENTS TO THE AGENDA
  • APPROVAL OF MINUTES
      1. March 20, 2023, Regular Meeting (Tabled)
      2. April 17, 2023, Regular Meeting
      3. April 17, 2023, BLC Meeting
  • ROAD FOREMAN’S & ROAD COMMISSIONER’S REPORT
  • ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT’S REPORT                                                                                             1. Personnel Policy for Selectboard to re-adopt.
    2. Municipal Checklist for Internal Control
    3. Contract with Windham County Humane Society
  •  COMMITTEE REPORT                                                                                                                 
  • SCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
    Phoebe Connolly: Plans for L.G.H.S. Prom 
    Terry and John Davis: Residents S. Wardsboro Rd.
  • UNSCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
  • OLD BUSINESS / FOLLOW-UP ITEMS(10 Minutes per topic)
    1. Cannabis Updates: (Johnson-Aplin)
    2. Town Beautification suggestions (Chevalier)
    3. Discuss ideas for a 250-year celebration of Newfane’s founding. (Johnson-Aplin).
    4. FEMA buyout of South Newfane General Store (Golob)
    5. ARPA Funds Updates (Golob)
    6. Should Social Appropriation Articles be Combined (Discussion)
    7. Cleanup of Property at 521 VT Route 30, Newfane. (Golob)
  • NEW BUSINESS
  • EXECUTIVE SESSION 
    Executive session to discuss an evaluation of an employee under the provisions of Title 1 VSA §313(a)(3).
  • CORRESPONDENCE
  • PAY ORDERS
  • ADJOURN

Planning Commission Meeting Agenda April 27, 2023

Town of Newfane, Vermont Planning Commission Meeting Agenda April 27, 2023

Time: 6:00 pm Location: Newfane Town Office & Zoom

Join Zoom Meeting
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AGENDA

  1. Call To Order
  2. Floodplain & River Corridor Zoning Bylaw Amendment
        • Public Hearing on Proposed Amendment to Zoning Bylaw
  1. Adjournment

Board of Liquor Control Monday, April 17th, 2023

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BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT:
Angela Sanborn, Ann Golob, and Jeffrey Chevalier.
Absent: Michael Fitzpatrick and Katy Johnson- Aplin

OTHERS PRESENT:
Austin Rice (B.C.T.V), Wannetta Powling.

CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order at 7:02 pm by Selectboard Chair Angela Sanborn.

REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF LIQUOR LICENSES:

  1. Green Mountain Wine Shop
    • 2nd Class License

Jeffrey Chevalier made a motion, seconded by Ann Golob, to approve the renewal of the Liquor Application for Green Mountain Wine Shop.
Motion passed 3/0

  1. C. Creamery LLC (Fat Crow)
    • 1st Class Restaurant License
    • Outside Consumption Permit

Ann Golob made a motion, seconded by Jeffrey Chevalier, to approve the renewal of the Liquor Application for N.C. Creamery LLC (Fat Crow)
Motion passed 3/0

ADJOURN:
Ann Golob made a motion to adjourn at 7:03 pm.
The motion carried unanimously.

Respectfully Submitted,
Administrative Assistant
Wannetta Powling

 

 

Selectboard Regular Meeting Monday, April 17, 2023

Minutes approved on May 1st, 2023
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BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT:  Angela Sanborn, Jeffrey Chevalier, Ann Golob.
Absent: Mike Fitzpatrick and Katy Johnson-Aplin.

OTHERS PRESENT:   Austin Rice (BCTV) and Wannetta Powling (Administrative Assistant.) Deborah Luskin (Moderator)
Zoom:  Jay Wilson (Road Foreman), and Kate Gehring (Planning Commission).

CALL TO ORDER: 
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 pm by Selectboard Chair Angela Sanborn.

CONFIRM PROPERLY WARNED:
Powling confirmed the meeting had been properly warned.

ADDITIONS/AMENDMENTS TO AGENDA:  
Powling requested the May 3rd regular meeting minutes be corrected to April 3rd regular meeting minutes.
Golob requested that the Hazard Mitigation Plan Review letter from Margo Ghia be added to the old business.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:

  1. March 20, 2023, regular meeting minutes. (Tabled until May 1st)
  2. April 3rd, 2023, regular meeting minutes.

Chevalier made a motion to accept the April 3rd, 2023, minutes. Golob seconded the motion. Motion passed 3/0.

ROAD FOREMAN’S & ROAD COMMISSIONER’S REPORT:

  1. On Friday, we discovered the stone culvert on Wiswall Hill was starting to collapse; I have a meeting tomorrow with the River Engineer and VTRANS to decide how to proceed with the repair of it or replacement.
  2. We have a draft of the ACT 250 permit application from Bill Jewell, and we are reviewing it to answer questions in the application.
  3. This is the year we would paint the white lines on the blacktop. Do you want me to get pricing on this?
  4. I have not heard back from Ron Bell for the Sand/Salt or the Eddy Rd. culvert.
  5. Bids were received last week for the Depot Rd. box culvert; the engineer is analyzing the bids and will have a recommendation for the state shortly. We had two bidders.

Golob made a motion to accept the Road Foreman’s report, and Chevalier seconded.

Discussion:

#2 Act 250 Permit; shared testing results of the sound study that was done for the application permit process.
Golob made a motion to contact a homeowner near the Gravel Pit to obtain a letter of support. Chevalier seconded. Motion passed 3/0.

#3 Line Striping; Wilson was given the approval to seek prices for the bi-annual stripping and report back to the Selectboard.
Sanborn asked if there was any need to place the “No Parking” signs along RT 30 near the swimming area and along Depot Road due to the road construction and previously expressed concerns about parking in that area. Wilson will follow up with VTrans.

The vote was called. Motion passed 3/0.

Amendment to move # 7 from Old Business while the Road Foreman was present.
Cleanup of Property at 521 VT RT30, Newfane (allow Wilson to provide impute)
Discussion:
Golob shared information obtained from (DEC) the Department of Environmental Conservation with the Selectboard.

  • Who is responsible for debris cleanup?
  • Contaminated soil removal?
  • What action can the town take?
  • Wait for the probate court to act.
  • Tax Sale

Golob offered to contact VLCT and get further advice for the Selectboard.

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT’S REPORT: 

  1. The Personal Policy is available tonight for readopting and the Selectboard signatures.
  2. April 17th -23rd is recognized as National Volunteer Week. This was established in 1974 and has grown exponentially each year; Newfane has a wonderful base of volunteers that make a positive and meaningful change in our community.
    I want to say, Thank you for your service!
  3. Maxwell Vandervliet is willing to accept the appointment to the Windham Regional Commission.
  4. The Planning Commission Public Hearing on the Floodplain and River Corridor Bylaw revision is scheduled for Thursday, April 27th, at 6 pm at the Town Office. They are asking Selectboard to attend this hearing.

Chevalier made a motion to accept the Administrative Assistant’s report. Golob seconded the motion.

Discussion:

#3 The Appointment to Windham Regional.
Golob made the motion to appoint Maxwell Vandervliet as Newfane’s Representative to the Windham Regional Commission. Chevalier seconded the motion. Motion passed 3/0.

#4 Planning Commission Public Hearing on Thursday, April 27th.
Sanborn, Golob, and Chevalier confirmed that they would attend the hearing. Powling was asked to check with Johnson-Aplin and Fitzpatrick to see if they would be available to attend.

The vote was called. Motion passed 3/0.

 

COMMITTEE REPORT

Traffic Calming Committee (TCC) updates (Chevalier).
The next meeting of the TCC will be Wednesday, May 3rd, at 6 pm at the Town Office.
Golob asked if the information from Windham Regional Commission (WRC) on the VT Department of Health pilot project, walk-ability in communities with pedestrian improvements was shared with the Committee. Wilson and Chevalier confirmed that the information was shared and that someone would do further research for the TCC.

SCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
None

UNSCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
None

OLD BUSINESS:
Cannabis Updates: (Johnson-Aplin)
None

Town Beautification (Chevalier)
Discussion:

There are five judges for the finished construction of benches. Wilson agreed with the cost for the installation of the benches at the proposed locations.

  • Contact members of the Conservation Commission for the Town Forrest location.
  • Judge Barnett for the Newfane Common.
  • Williamsville Hall Committee.
  • Two benches along Dover Road on Riverside.
  • Town Office out front.

Still need to complete the following steps to move the project.

  • Press Release.
  • Submit Ideas and applications.

Chevalier made a motion to allocate $15,000 from ARPA funds for this project. Golob seconded the motion. Motion passed 3/0.

Discuss ideas for a 250-year celebration of Newfane’s founding. (Johnson-Aplin) – None

Due to remote connective issues
Planning Commission updates- Kate Gehring.

Public Hearing for the Floodplain and River Corridor Bylaw revision is scheduled for Thursday, April 27th, at  6 pm at the Town Office. Alyssa Sabetto from WRC (Windham Regional Commission) and John Gifford- Campbell will attend the hearing.
Discussion:  The Planning Commission was interested in looking at Google Suite and whether the Selectboard was using it. Also interested in having separate PC emails instead of using their personal email for PC business. Powling mentioned that Bahman Madhavi could help to arrange that, using individual names.

The Planning Commission asked to be the appointee for the Bylaw Modernization Grant.
Golob made a motion to define that the Planning Commission as the appointed organizer, overseer of the Bylaw Modernization Grant, working with WRC. Chevalier seconded the motion.
The purpose of applying for the grant was to review and expand the zoning laws to increase housing. The Planning Commission will work with WRC directly on this.
Motion passed 3/0. 

FEMA Buy-Out of the South Newfane General Store – (Golob)
No updates from FEMA.
Golob asked to address the concerns of the underground storage tanks. The concerns are that FEMA may not approve the project if the tanks are not removed and for Environmental reasons. Options were suggested to move forward with reviewing the funding for Phase One (research history of the tanks) and Phase Two remediation of the property.

  • Participation in Vermont’s environmental liability limitation program (BRELLA) provides a way out of the liability legal and financial risks associated with contamination.
  • WRC has funds to help cover the cost of the Insurance.
  • Various resources of funding may be available.
    Golob made a motion to apply for BRELLA Insurance and to authorize Chair Sanborn to sign the application. Chevalier seconded the motion. Motion passed 3/0.

ARPA: (Sanborn and Golob)
None

SHOULD SOCIAL APPROPRIATIONS BE COMBINED
This is a continuing discussion for the Town and Selectboard to decide whether to keep social appropriations separate or combine.

Deborah Luskin wondered if three or four articles were still required by state law for the Town Meeting Warning and recommended that placement of Town Budgets Articles be ahead of Social Appropriations. Luskin mentioned that she would consult VLCT for clarification on the required Articles needed for the Warning.

Discussion ensued.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN UPDATE

The Selectboard received an e-mail from Margo Ghia from WRC with a copy of the draft plan. Please review the plan and respond with your comments by April 28th. This information has been shared with the Planning Commission.

NEW BUSINESS –
None

CORRESPONDENCE:
Morris Ale Dancers wrote a letter asking permission to have parts of West St closed during Memorial Day weekend, Sunday, May 28th, between 4:30 -6:30 pm.

Golob made a motion to approve the request, and Chevalier seconded the motion.
Motion passed 3/0.
Sanborn asked Powling to contact the Morris Ale Dancers to inform them that the Selectboard approved their request and to remind them that they would still need to contact the Court for their permission to use the Court’s property.

CMAG Consulting, LLC – sent an introduction letter to help find funding opportunities, complete the funding process, and manage and report the progress to state or federal agencies.
Discussion: Selectboard did not believe there was a current need for services and agreed to keep the letter on file.

Selectboard meeting suspended at 7:02 pm to open Board of Liquor Control.
The Board of Liquor Control Adjourned at 7:03 pm. Resumed Selectboard meeting.

 

PAY ORDERS
Payroll Warrant # 11616                                Amount $       6.085.57
Payroll Warrant # 11617                                Amount $       4,516.76
Account Payable # 23024                              Amount $     66,103.17

Chevalier made a motion to approve Pay Orders. Golob seconded the motion.
Motion passed 3/0.

ADJOURN:
Golob made a motion to adjourn. The meeting was adjourned at 7:10 P.M.

Respectfully Submitted,
Wannetta Powling, Administrative Assistant

Newfane Board of Liquor Control April 17, 2023

Please Note: Newfane will now require Zoom participants to remain muted. If they wish to be recognized, they will need to raise their hand, and the Chair will recognize them before being un-muted.

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/97227911757#success
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www.zoom.us/joinameeting       ID: 972 2791 1757  Passcode: 352680

The Board of Liquor Control will follow the closing of the Selectboard Regular Meeting 

  •  CALL MEETING TO ORDER
  • CONFIRM PROPERLY WARNED
  •  REVIEW APPLICATION                                                                                                                  
  1. Green Mountain Wine Shop
    • 2nd Class License
  2. C. Creamery LLC ( Fat Crow)
    • 1st Class Restaurant License
    • Outside Consumption Permit

 

ADJOURN

Selectboard Regular Meeting Agenda April 17th, 2023,

Please Note: Newfane will now require Zoom participants to remain muted. If they wish to be recognized, they will need to raise their hand, and the Chair will recognize them before being un-muted.

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/97227911757#success
(copy and paste the link into your web browser)

www.zoom.us/joinameeting       ID: 972 2791 1757           Passcode: 352680

  • CALL MEETING TO ORDER
  • CONFIRM PROPERLY WARNED
  • ADDITIONS/AMENDMENTS TO THE AGENDA
  • APPROVAL OF MINUTES
    March 20, 2023, Regular Meeting (Tabled)
    May 3, 2023, Regular Meeting
  • ROAD FOREMAN’S & ROAD COMMISSIONER’S REPORT
  • ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT’S REPORT                                                                                                 Personal Policy for Selectboard to re-adopt
    Follow-up Appointment Windham Regional Commission
    Moover Letter
  • COMMITTEE REPORT                                                                                                                              1. Traffic Calming Committee updates (Johnson-Aplin).
  • SCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
  • UNSCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
  • OLD BUSINESS / FOLLOW-UP ITEMS (10 Minutes per topic
    1. Cannabis Updates: (Johnson-Aplin)
    2. Town Beautification suggestions (Chevalier)
    3. Discuss ideas for a 250-year celebration of Newfane’s founding. (Johnson-Aplin).
    4. FEMA buyout of South Newfane General Store (Golob)
    5. ARPA Funds Updates (Golob)
    6. Should Social Appropriation Articles (Discussion)
    7. Cleanup of Property at 521 VT Route 30, Newfane
  • NEW BUSINESS
  • CORRESPONDENCE
  • PAY ORDERS
  • ADJOURN

 

Board of Liquor Control to follow the Selectboard Meeting