November 21, 2023, DRB Findings and Decision

Town of Newfane, Vermont Development Review Board
Hearing Regarding a Variance to Setback Requirements
Findings and Decision November 21, 2023

 

Re: Request for setback variance for construction of a balcony at 5 Baker Brook Road

Permit Application Number: 23-044

Background
Newfane Development Review Board (DRB) held a public hearing on July 26, 2023, to consider application 23-044 for a variance to the setback requirements in the Rural District and from a stream/brook.

Applicant Tara McEnroe Kent submitted documentation showing that the proposed balcony would be sited approximately 70 feet from the high water mark of Baker Brook, in line with the existing home and existing balcony/deck on another portion of the home. The applicant stated the balcony would be attached to the structure of the house and would not be attached to or touching the ground.

Guiding Policy Provisions
Town of Newfane Zoning Bylaw adopted February 19, 2015

Materials Submitted
Sketch of proposed balcony, map with measurements to Baker Brook.

Findings of Fact
The sketch and map provided and the testimony of the applicant show that there are unique physical circumstances of the land that make it impossible to develop in conformity with the provisions of the zoning bylaw and that the home already has a balcony in another portion of the building that encroaches further into the setback.

Further, because of the physical circumstances, there is no possibility that the property can be developed in strict conformity with the provisions of the zoning bylaw.

Conclusion of Law
Based on a review of materials submitted and presented testimony, the Newfane DRB concludes this application warrants a granting of a variance as follows: “For the construction of a 7×5.5 foot balcony, to be attached to the building and not touching or attached to the ground, a variance of approximately 3 feet from the required 75-foot setback to the high water mark of Baker Brook is granted”

Decision
Application 23-044 is unanimously approved, and a variance to the setback is granted, allowing the applicant to construct a 7×5.5 foot balcony from the second floor of the house, not touching the ground.

Appeal
Pursuant to Title 24 VSA Sections 4471 and 4472, an interested person who has participated in the review of this application may appeal this decision to the Environmental Division of The Vermont Superior Court by certified mail within thirty (30) days of the date this decision is issued. A copy of the notice must also be sent to the Zoning Administrator or the Municipal Clerk, who is required to provide a list of interested persons to the appellant within five days of receipt of the Notice. The appellant is required to send a copy of the Notice via certified mail, to each interested person.

Town of Newfane, Vermont
Development Review Board
David Cotton, Chair

 

 

Selectboard Budget Agenda November 27th

Selectboard Budget Agenda Monday November 27th @ 6:00 PM


Please Note:
Newfane will now require Zoom participants to remain muted. If they wish to be recognized, they must raise their hand, and the Chair will identify 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 TO ORDER:

 ADDITIONS/AMENDMENTS TO THE AGENDA:

CONFIRM MEETING PROPERLY WARNED:

REPORTS:

MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC:


OLD BUSINESS:
Town Report Design

 NEW BUSINESS:
Expenditures|
Articles
Warnings
Social Appropriations Donations

ADJOURN:

A series of meetings to consider the 2025 fiscal budget

 

Board of Liquor Control November 20, 2023

Monday, November 20th, 2023

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/97227911757#success
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https//zoom. Us/join            Meeting ID:  972 2791 1757 Passcode:  352680

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

 OTHERS PRESENT: Austin Rice (BCTV), Wannetta Powling.

CALL TO ORDER:    The meeting was called to order at 6:52 p.m. by Selectboard Chair Angela Litchfield.

REVIEW APPLICATION:

  1. Renewal Fat Crow -Third Class Restaurant and Bar

Fitzpatrick made a motion to approve the Fat Crown application. Johnson-Aplin seconded. Motion passed.

 

ADJOURN: Johnson-Aplin made a motion to adjourn at 6:53 p.m.

 

Respectfully Submitted,
Administrative Assistant
Wannetta Powling
A.E.L.

 

 

Selectboard Regular Meeting Minutes Monday, November 20th, 2023

Newfane Selectboard Regular Meeting Monday, November 20th, 2023


https://us06web.zoom.us/j/97227911757#success
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https//zoom. Us/join            Meeting ID:  972 2791 1757 Passcode:  352680

 

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

OTHERS PRESENT:   Jane Douglas (Planning Commission), Bahman Mahdavi (Rock River Players), Austin Rice (BCTV), and Wannetta Powling (Administrative Assistant).

Zoom:  Jay Wilson (Road Foreman), and Kate Gehring (Planning Commission).

CALL TO ORDER:  The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Selectboard Chair Angela Litchfield.

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

ADDITIONS/AMENDMENTS TO AGENDA:  
Johnson-Aplin requested to add to New Business a discussion of moving the meetings due to the holidays.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:

  1. November 6th, 2023, Regular Minutes.

Fitzpatrick made a motion to accept the November 6th, 2023, Regular Minutes, and Johnson-Aplin seconded the motion.
Motion passed.

  1. November 6th, 2023, BLC Minutes.

Fitzpatrick made a motion to accept the November 6th, 2023, BLC Minutes, and Johnson-Aplin seconded the motion.
Motion passed.

  1. November 13th, 2023, Budget Minutes.

It was tabled until the next meeting.

 

ROAD FOREMAN’S & ROAD COMMISSIONER’S REPORT:

  1. We will need to vote on the Adams Hill Rd—bridge repair. The insurance company for the trucking company that damaged the bridge has been contacted, and they have pictures and the quote for the repair/replacement.
  2. DMI was able to get the pavement patching done.
  3. We had a price from RSG for the new sound study of $6,900 using the new proposed plan.
  4. The side dressing of the new pavement on South Wardsboro Rd. was completed last week.
  5. The bids must be in for the Loop Road culvert on November 28th.
  6. Wilson requested that the Selectboard send letters to (selected) residents stating there could be potential damage from the snow plows this season.

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

 

Discussion ensued:

It was mentioned that the special meeting on Thursday, November 16th, had not been properly warned and the discussion about the Adams Hill Bridge would be reviewed again this evening.

Fitzpatrick made a motion to approve spending the $ 100,000 for the bridge replacement on Adams Hill, and Johnson-Aplin seconded.

Motion passed.


Johnson-Aplin made a motion to approve the cost of the changes for the sound studies for the Gravel Pit ACT 250 permit, and Fitzpatrick seconded.

Motion passed.

It was discussed that Powling and Wilson would open the bids on November 28th, verify and record the bids, and then forward them to the project engineer, Everett Hammond.

Follow Up:

NRCS and Michael Lapointe are still working through the list of over 232 sites. We were asked to be patient; they haven’t forgotten us.

The vote was called. Motion passed.

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT’S REPORT: 

  1. I made copies of the information from the V.L.C.T. training on ADA 101: What your Municipality Needs to Know.
  2. Newfane will follow other local town offices and close at 2 pm on Wednesday and Friday for the Thanksgiving Holiday.
  3. Katie Bristol will be doing the monthly bank reconciliation.
  4. Appropriation appointments are included as an attachment.

 

Fitzpatrick made a motion to accept the Administrative Assistant’s report, and Johnson-Aplin seconded.
D
iscussion ensued:

Powling was asked to share information from the meeting she attended with other local municipalities on November 15th with Sheriff Anderson to hear and discuss information and options for Regional Law Enforcement, including the development of municipal models like the Animal Control developed a few years ago. This would be a pilot project, the first of its kind in Vermont. Member towns will participate in negotiating the types of services needed.  Anderson asked if members of the towns would write a letter of interest to support the policing project. He would submit the letters with a bill to Vermont legislation for the beginning of the new legislative session that starts in January 2024; if approval is given, there is a potential for the program to begin by July 2024.


The vote was called. Motion passed.


COMMITTEE REPORT:

Planning Commission (P.C)- Jane Douglas and Kate Gehring –December 2 at 10 a.m., you are invited to join a “Walkabout the Village” with members from Windham Regional Commission and other persons who are interested in Newfane updating the Zoning Ordinance and By-Law to review affordable housing. Jane Douglas asked if the remaining $201,000 ARPA had been marked for a particular project. Douglas asked if the Selectboard had given any thought to setting aside money for a revolving low-interest loan to help residents with improvements to existing properties to provide other ways of developing affordable rent space/housing.

Gehring mentioned that representatives from Windham, Brookline, and Townshend joined Newfane P.C. to collaborate on what could be done to help with the relief of the housing crisis that so many face.

DV Fiber – Jane Douglas said that Readsboro now has 100+ customers hooked to the fiber internet. They are working on areas in Stamford, Whitingham, and Halifax. Progress is approximately 13 miles a month, with expectations of reaching Marlboro in early 2024.

 

SCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC:

The following agencies and organizations gave a three to five-minute explanation of the program and services they provide to the residents of Newfane, Williamsville, S. Newfane, and Brookside and how the funds they are requesting are going to be used.

  1. Aids Project of So. VT – Exc. Director Samba Diallo
  2. WinDart – Joanne Bourbeau
  3. Youth Services- Russell Bradbury-Carlin
  4. Brattleboro Area Hospice- Hillary Farquhar

UNSCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC:
Bahman Mahdavi, Rock River Players – wanted to share that the improvements at the Williamsville Hall are completed. He wanted to thank the board again for the generous support. The Rock River Players were able to meet these improvements within months, which had previously been expected to take years. Mahdavi said this will help improve and promote a more lively and vibrant community center.

NEW BUSINESS
Johnson-Aplin suggested that the December 25th budget meeting be canceled and the January 1st Selectboard meeting be moved to Tuesday, January 2nd.

This was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

  1. Town Beautification suggestions (Chevalier)
    None
  1. FEMA buyout of South Newfane General Store (Golob)
    None
  1. ARPA Funds Updates (Golob)
    None
  1. Personnel Policy Recommendations (Johnson-Aplin).
    It was tabled until the entire board was in attendance.

CORRESPONDENCE:
None

The Selectboard meeting was suspended for the Board of Liquor Control at 6:52 p.m.

The Selectboard meeting resumed at 6:53 p.m. (see Board of Liquor Control Minutes).


Johnson-Aplin made a motion to have Litchfield and Johnson-Aplin approve the Account Payables. Fitzpatrick seconded.
Motion passed.

PAY ORDERS

  • Payroll # 11652                 $ 6,090.77
  • Payroll # 11653                 $ 5,352.49
  • AP # 24012                        $ 97,903.36


Fitzpatrick made a motion to approve the Pay Roll, and Johnson-Aplin seconded the motion.

Motion passed 3/0.

ADJOURN:

Johnson-Aplin made a motion to adjourn. The meeting was adjourned at 7:11 P.M.

Respectfully Submitted,
Wannetta Powling,
Administrative Assistant
A.E.L

 

 

 

 

Selectboard Budget Minutes, November 13th, 2023

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https//zoom. Us/join            Meeting ID:  972 2791 1757              Passcode:  352680

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

OTHER PRESENT:
Jay Wilson (Road Foreman), Melissa Brown (Treasurer), and Wannetta Powling (Administrative Assistant).

CALL TO ORDER and MEETING WARNING:
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Chair Angela Litchfield.
Litchfield asked if the meeting was properly warned.

ADDITIONS/ AMENDMENTS TO AGENDA:
None

REPORTS:

Highway Department –Wilson shared information regarding an event last week involving a 53’ tractor trailer going up Adams Hill Road in South Newfane. The truck caused significant damage to the bridge, and Wilson is waiting to hear about insurance from the trucking company. Wilson has contacted Mike from Renaud Brothers in Vernon to assess the damage and recommend an alternative solution to allow for springtime repair.


OLD BUSINESS:
Town Report Design– A discussion took place with Litchfield asking if Johnson-Aplin and Chevalier would like to collaborate with Powling on the cover.

Dedication –Discussion ensued. Litchfield mentioned that she would work with Powling to draft something for the Town Report.

Revenue– Completed.


NEW BUSINESS:

Capital Budget: Progress was made.

Expenditures: Employee (BCBS) medical coverage was discussed. The increase in premium will be covered with the 80% / 20% split, the same as previous years.

Budget Review: Progress was made.

Follow-up items:

  1. Employee reviews will be discussed at the next Selectboard Meeting on November 20th. Reviews will need to be completed before the end of the budget season so the wage increases are figured into the final budget figures.
  2. Law Enforcement
    Regional Policing presentation and discussion in Brattleboro on November 15th. Mixed feelings were expressed over the patrols currently provided by the Windham County Sheriff’s Department (WCSD).
  3.  Several items were put on hold until Powling received funding requests from the Planning Commission, Treasurer, and other commissions. Powling was asked to provide the Selectboard with a wage comparison from other towns.

 

Items tabled for future budget meetings.

  • Capital Budget
  • Expenditures
  • Open Items
  • Articles including Social Appropriation Donations
  • Salaries
  • Warnings

ADJOURN:

Chevalier made a motion to adjourn. The meeting was adjourned at 7:04 P.M.

Respectfully Submitted,
Wannetta Powling,
Administrative Assistant

 

 

November 20th, 2023, Selectboard Regular Agenda

Please Note: Newfane will now require Zoom participants to remain muted. If they wish to be recognized, they must raise their hand, and the Chair will identify 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
  1. November 6th, 2023, Regular Minutes
  2. November 6th, 2023, BLC Minutes
  3. November 13th, 2023, Budget Minutes
  • ROAD FOREMAN’S & ROAD COMMISSIONER’S REPORT
    Update on Emergency Watershed Program Grants
    Adams Hill Bridge –update
  • ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT’S REPORT
  • COMMITTEE REPORT
  • SCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC (3-5 Minutes) 6:40 P.M.
  1. Aids Project of So. VT – Exc. Director Samba Diallo
  2. WinDart – Joanne Bourbeau
  3. Youth Services- Russell Bradbury-Carlin
  4. Brattleboro Area Hospice- Hillary Farquhar
  • UNSCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
  • NEW BUSINESS
  • OLD BUSINESS / FOLLOW-UP ITEMS (10 Minutes per topic)
    1. Town Beautification suggestions (Chevalier)
    2. FEMA buyout of South Newfane General Store (Golob)
    3. ARPA Funds Updates (Golob)
    4. Personnel Policy changes/ recommendation (Johnson-Aplin/Chevalier)
  • CORRESPONDENCE

  • PAY ORDERS
  1. Payroll # 11652 $ 6090.77
  2. Payroll # 11653                Not available at the time of posting
  3. AP # 24012 Not available at the time of posting
  • ADJOURN

  • The Newfane Board of Liquor Control will review the following application
  1. Renewal Fat Crown -Third-Class Restaurant and Bar

 

Selectboard Regular Meeting Monday, November 6th, 2023

Regular Meeting Monday, November 6th, 2023
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/97227911757#success (copy and paste the link into your web browser)
https//zoom. Us/join            Meeting ID:  972 2791 1757 Passcode:  352680

BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT:
Angela Litchfield, Mike Fitzpatrick, Katy Johnson-Aplin, Jeffrey Chevalier, and Ann Golob (Zoom).

OTHERS PRESENT:
Jeryl Julian Cisse (VT Adult Learning), Ryck Morales (SBA), Austin Rice (BCTV), and Wannetta Powling (Administrative Assistant).

Zoom:
  Jay Wilson (Road Foreman), Jane Douglas (NewBrook/Newfane Anew, Planning Commission), Kate Gehring (Planning Commission), Maya Richmond (WCHS), Andrea Seaton (Grace Cottage), Kate Alberghini (Green-Up VT), Kathleen Devlin (SEVCA).

CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Selectboard Chair Angela Litchfield.

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

ADDITIONS/AMENDMENTS TO AGENDA:  

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:

  1. October 16th, 2023, Regular Meeting Minutes.
    Golob made a motion to accept the October 16th, 2023, Regular Minutes, and Johnson-Aplin seconded the motion.
    Motion passed. Fitzpatrick abstained.
  1. October 30th, 2023, Budget Meeting Minutes.
    Fitzpatrick made a motion to accept the October 30th, 2023, Budget Minutes, and Chevalier seconded the motion.
    Motion passed.
  1. September 14th, 2023, Special Meeting Minutes.
    Fitzpatrick made a motion to accept the September 14th, 2023, Special Meeting minutes, Golob seconded.
    Motion passed. Chevalier and Johnson-Aplin abstained.

 

ROAD FOREMAN’S & ROAD COMMISSIONER’S REPORT:

  1. We met with FEMA again today to go over damage reports for the July 10th
  2. If the weather cooperates, the rest of the Grimes Hill pavement repairs will be done this week.
  3. We received a draft of the Act 250 application from Bill Jewell; both Ann and I added notes to it and have sent it back to Bill Jewell. We are waiting for the new data from the sound study to be attached to the application.
  4. If all goes well, we plan on side-dressing the shoulders of the new pavement on South Wardsboro Road this week.
  5. The pre-bid meeting for the Loop Road box culvert was held last week, and bids are due November 28th.

Fitzpatrick made a motion to accept the Road Foreman & Road Commissioners report and Chevalier seconded.

 

Discussion ensued:

  1. There is a projection that the FEMA payments are going to be slow in coming back for the repairs.
  2. Litchfield asked if Wilson would make an inquiry from the NRCS to see if they had any updates to the site visit.

The vote was called. Motion passed.

Access Permit – 302 Newfane Hill Road /Tyler Russell was reviewed.

Discussion ensued:
Fitzpatrick made a motion to approve the access permit, with the installation on an 18” culvert, and Johnson-Aplin seconded.
Motion passed.

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT’S REPORT: 

  1. There is a request for an appointment to the Development Review Board from Cristine White. Would you like to make this appointment tonight?
  2. There is an offer to assist smaller towns and villages with “designing a Mobil-friendly and ADA-compliant website.” They will manage all technical support and train in how to use the software. They are out of Watertown, NY. I have included some information, but would you like me to pursue additional information? (see the attachments)
  3. On Wednesday, November 8th, from 2:30-4, there will be V.L.C.T. training on ADA 101: What your Municipality Needs to Know. I have set this up for Katy and me to attend. Is anyone else interested?
  4. Bill Morse called this morning looking for the Selectboard to respond to his letter of September 5th
  5. Sierra Pratt has completed the October Bank recons. She will not be able to continue doing the monthly bank statements. Do you have any recommendations for replacements?
  6. On November 8th, at the Stone Church in Brattleboro, they will be having the Producers Award, and they will be recognizing retiring BCTV Director Cor Trowbridge.

Fitzpatrick made a motion to accept the Administrative Assistant’s report and Johnson-Aplin seconded.
D
iscussion ensued:

  1. Fitzpatrick made a motion to appoint Cristine White to the DRB, Johnson-Aplin seconded.
    The motion passed.
  1. Johnson-Aplin said that she had done some research with the same web design and would recommend getting more information on updating the Town website, including getting a quote.

The vote was called. Motion passed.


COMMITTEE REPORT:

Traffic Calming Committee-Johnson-Aplin
provided an update on the work that the Traffic Calming Committee (TCC) has been discussing, including the concerns for speed enforcement, beautification efforts, ordering, and sign placements for Williamsville. To help create driver awareness, the TCC has suggested placements of “Hikers, Bikers, and Horses Ahead.” TCC is still working on the details for presenting the budget request at a Selectboard meeting in December.  TCC will meet on Wednesday, November 29th, and Wednesday, December 20th; the public is encouraged to attend our meetings.  Wilson mentioned that the over-height limit warning lights for the covered bridge is $20,000. Wilson also mentioned that it is not reasonable to place cameras on the bridge to monitor traffic and over-height vehicles.

 

SCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC:
The following agencies and organizations gave a three to five-minute explanation of the program and services they provide to the residents of Newfane, Williamsville, S. Newfane, and Brookside and how the funds they are requesting are going to be used.

Grace Cottage Hospital – Andrea Seaton
NewBrook News/ Newfane A New – Jane Douglas
Windham County Humane Society – Maya Richmond
Green-Up Vermont – Kate Alberghini
SEVCA- Executive Director, Kathleen Devlin
VT Adult Learning- Jeryl Julian-Cisse

UNSCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC:
Ryck Morales, a public Affairs Specialist from the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience/U.S Small Business Administration came and provided Newfane with additional flood recovery options and instructions for businesses and nonprofits can get loans to repair or replace damaged or destroyed property up to $2 Million. Homeowners can get up to $200,000 to repair or replace a primary residence and get additional assistance to help mitigate against future disasters. Homeowners and renters can get up to $40,000 to repair or replace personal property, furniture, appliances, and vehicles.

Facts:

  • There is no obligation to accept the loan if it is approved.
  • You don’t need to know how much to ask for when you apply.
  • You don’t need to wait for settled insurance claims, FEMA grants, or estimates before applying.
  • Loans can be used for insurance deductibles, require building code upgrades, or require relocation.
  • Additional information is available from the Administrative Assistant at the Town Office. Litchfield asked that the information be put on the website.

 

NEW BUSINESS
None

OLD BUSINESS:

  1. Town Beautification suggestions (Chevalier)
    None
  1. FEMA buyout of South Newfane General Store (Golob)
    None
  1. ARPA Funds Updates (Golob)
    None
  1. Personnel Policy Recommendations (Johnson-Aplin).

Litchfield asked if the Board could preview the changes and notes for the Personnel Policy at the Budget meeting Monday night.

  • CORRESPONDENCE:
    Rock River Players – Thank you for the ARPA donation.
    Grace Cottage Hospital- Thank you for the FY 2023 donations.

The Selectboard meeting was suspended for the Board of Liquor Control at 7:27 p.m.
The Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:29 p.m. (see Board of Liquor Control Minutes).
Golob attended remotely and left the meeting at 7:30 p.m.

PAY ORDERS

  1. Payroll # 11649                  $ 6,927.41
  2. Payroll # 11650                  $ 6,684.70
  3. AP # 24010                         $ 464,994.03
  4. AP # 24011                         $1,068,318.37
  5. Payroll # 11651                 $5,182.44


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

ADJOURN:

Johnson-Aplin made a motion to adjourn. The meeting was adjourned at 7:48 P.M.

Respectfully Submitted,
Wannetta Powling,
Administrative Assistant
AL

 

 

NEWFANE BOARD OF LIQUOR CONTROL MINUTES

Monday, November 6th, 2023

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/97227911757#success (copy and paste the link into your web browser)
https//zoom. Us/join            Meeting ID:  972 2791 1757 Passcode:  352680

BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT:
Angela Litchfield, Katy Johnson-Aplin, Ann Golob (Zoom), Mike Fitzpatrick and Jeffrey Chevalier.

OTHERS PRESENT:
Austin Rice (BCTV), Wannetta Powling.

CALL TO ORDER: 
The meeting was called to order at 7:27 p.m. by Selectboard Chair Angela Litchfield.

REVIEW APPLICATION:
Special Catering Event at the Williamsville Hall –Whetstone Station Restaurant & Brewery

Fitzpatrick made a motion to approve the application for Whetstone Station Restaurant & Brewery. Johnson-Aplin seconded. Motion passed.

  1. Special Catering Event at Rescue- The Black Pearl LLC

Fitzpatrick made a motion to approve the application for The Black Pearl LLC. Johnson-Aplin seconded.

Motion passed.

ADJOURN:

Johnson-Aplin made a motion to adjourn at 7:29 p.m.

 

Respectfully Submitted,
Wannetta Powling
Administrative Assistant

 

 

Selectboard Budget Agenda Monday November 13th @ 6:00 PM


Please Note:
Newfane will now require Zoom participants to remain muted. If they wish to be recognized, they must raise their hand, and the Chair will identify 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 TO ORDER:

 ADDITIONS/AMENDMENTS TO THE AGENDA:

CONFIRM MEETING PROPERLY WARNED:

REPORTS:

Highway Department – Adams Hill Road Bridge damage


MEMBERS OF
THE PUBLIC:


OLD BUSINESS:

  • Town Report Design
  • Dedication
  • Revenue

    NEW BUSINESS:

  • Capital Budget
  • Expenditures
  • Articles
  • Warnings
  • Social Appropriations Donations

 

ADJOURN:

 

A series of meetings to consider the 2025 fiscal budget

 

Williamsville Hall Meeting Minutes, 11/6/23

Williamsville Hall Meeting Minutes, 11/6/23

 Attendee:
Steve Levine, Dale Stevens, Maggie Kemp, Austin Rice, Eben Viens, and Kate Conway

Treasure’s report:       

 Lighting monies
  –ARPA monies donated for lighting: $8,500
-RRP portion:                                      $5,000

-the Hall will forfeit our share of
profit from the next two plays

-lighting will be approximately           $15,000
*Lighting should be operational this weekend
________________________

  Paid from WH Donation Fund
-Breeze, speaker equip:                   $525.
 -Dale miscellaneous parts/pieces:    $501.11

      Funds:
           Donation Fund: $2,924.
           Capital Fund     $47,590.73

On-going:
          -Aaron Betts & Weston may take on the basement support repairs
-Steve is waiting to hear back from Ely Phoenix about rook repairs
Am also waiting to hear back from Crispin about exterior kitchen repairs. Maggie will follow-up

-Austin and Eben, explore other publicity avenues?

 Breakfast and movie schedule: 

 b’fast/Thur.                      Movie/Fri
11/16/23 -8:00-10:30      11/17-7:30 Peanut Butter Falcon

-12/15/23                         12/16/23 Planes, Trains, and Automobiles

-1/18/24                           1/19/24 Shawshank Redemption

-2/15/24                           2/16/24 The Shop Around the Corner

-3/15/24                           3/16/24 Force Majeure

-4/18/24                           4/19/24 To Be or Not to Be

 

Jonathon would like to add a fundraising idea:
(copied from Jonathon’s email, 11/8/23)

My idea is this could be an ongoing “cold pickup” event, with pickup times running parallel to our breakfast and movie times. So, I decided to go for it and have ordered pint containers as well as some foodstuffs from Sysco.
The initial offerings for next week will be roasted butternut squash and a vegetarian tomato bisque. At some point between now and next Wednesday, I plan on making these soups and of course would welcome help/company in the kitchen.
I have contacted Jim B and as usual, he is on board for putting a poster together. Perhaps we can also get something to Pam, though I know she hates last minute requests. I will keep receipts for paper goods and foodstuffs but will be donating labor. Obviously, we will not be generating huge sums of cash, but the idea is to have some fun in the kitchen and maybe make a buck or two.

 

 

         

Newfane Planning Commission Regular Meeting Agenda November 9, 2023

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

Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/3491597323?pwd=WDFncjR4cjg5RlV3L2I4QUUrMjZLdz09

Meeting ID: 349 159 7323    Passcode: 200PNR

 Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kdOt7QzdIt.

 

AGENDA

  1. Call To Order

  2. Additions to the Agenda

  3. Review and Approve Minutes

  4. Old Business
    • Development Review Board (DRB) update
    • Broadband update, Deerfield Valley Communication District
    • Report back from Town Meetings and/or Selectboard meetings
    • Bylaw Modernization Grant – Update
  5. New Business
    • Newfane/Townshend/Brookline Joint Planning Commission Brainstorm
      (i) Introductions
      (ii) Update from each Planning Commission
      (iii) Collaboration discussion
    • Short-term Rentals – Draft Ordinance review and discussion
    • Agenda setting for next meeting
    • Planning Commission vacancies (1 vacant seat)
  6. Correspondence

  7. Adjournment

 

NEWFANE PLANNING COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES of October 26, 2023

COMMISSION MEMBERS PRESENT: Kate Gehring, Jane Douglas, James Bressor
OTHERS PRESENT: Dot Maggio

CALL TO ORDER
Kate called the meeting to order at 6:04 pm.

ADDITIONS/AMENDMENTS TO THE AGENDA
Jane requested a brief executive session to discuss a personnel matter.

MINUTES
A motion was made by James and seconded by Jane to approve the 10/12/23 meeting minutes with one amended requested by Jane: to clarify that the Deerfield Valley Communications District is hoping to have Readsboro and Stamford completely wired by December, but completion is not certain. The motion carried unanimously by voice vote.

UNSCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
None.

OLD BUSINESS
Development Review Board (DRB) update:
None.

Broadband update, Deerfield Valley Communications District:
Jane noted that the DVCD is planning a November 9 noon event to celebrate the first Readsboro customers.

Report back from Town Meetings and/or Selectboard meetings:
Jane attended the most recent Selectboard meeting and reported there were no discussions relevant to the planning commission.

Bylaw Modernization Grant:
Commissioners discussed the December 2, 2023, Bylaw Modernization walking tour. Kate said she would develop a flyer to publicize the event, and the commission will warn the tour as a special planning commission meeting.

Short-term Rentals:
Jane circulated a revised draft short-term rental registration form and ordinance, which other commissioners will review prior to the next commission meeting. Commissioners discussed the possibility of including the authorizing statutes in the ordinance, as some towns have done. Jane said she would share more web links to other municipalities’ short-term rental ordinances. Jane said she would also share the latest version of the draft ordinance with Doris Mitchell.

NEW BUSINESS

Newfane/Townshend/Brookline Joint Planning Commission Brainstorm – update:
Kate said the Brookline Planning Commission had agreed to the November 9, 2023, multi-community meeting to discuss possible town collaboration.

Agenda setting for next meeting:
The next meeting is the tentative multi-town meeting.

Planning Commission vacancy:
No progress on filling the vacancy.

EXECUTIVE SESSION
The commission went into a brief executive session to discuss a personnel matter. There were no motions or actions taken.

CORRESPONDENCE
None.

ADJOURNMENT
A motion was made by Jane and seconded by James to adjourn the meeting at 7:00 p.m. The motion carried unanimously by voice vote.

 

Respectfully Submitted,
James Bressor

 

Selectboard Budget Meeting Monday, October 30th, 2023

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/97227911757#success
(copy and paste the link into your web browser)
https//zoom. Us/join            Meeting ID:  972 2791 1757 Passcode:  352680

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

OTHER PRESENT:
Melissa Brown (Treasurer) and Wannetta Powling (Administrative Assistant).

CALL TO ORDER and MEETING WARNING:
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Chair Angela Litchfield.
Litchfield asked if the meeting was properly warned.

ADDITIONS/ AMENDMENTS TO AGENDA:
None

OLD BUSINESS:
The Selectboard was given additional time to review the two emails Golob forwarded, and it was agreed to vote on the FEMA conditions and have the Chair sign the letter.

Golob made a motion to accept the conditions from the FEMA letter. Chevalier seconded.
Motion passed 4/0/1 Fitzpatrick abstained.

NEW BUSINESS:

  • Town Report Design. The ideas discussed at the meeting were reviewed, and it was decided to select images that would show appreciation for the committee members and volunteers who help with the functions of the Town.
  • Dedication. Several suggestions were raised and discussed. It was agreed that we would wait to make a final decision at the next budget meeting on November 13th.

Budget Review

  • Treasurer Melissa Brown provided revenue figures.
  • It was agreed that the review of the Rescue contract would determine the amount needed to budget for the Rescue. Fitzpatrick commented that the NewBrook Fire Department should be given equal consideration.

Follow-up items

  1. Law Enforcement
    It was agreed to hold off a review of law enforcement funding until members attended the regional policing presentation and discussion in Brattleboro on November 15th. Mixed feelings were expressed over the patrols currently provided by the Windham  County Sheriff’s Department (WCSD).
  2.   Powling will contact VTSP (Vermont State Police Lieutenant Anthony French) to confirm whether they would be interested in the 2025 fiscal year law enforcement contract.
  3. Johnson-Aplin will contact Putney Town Manager Karen Astley for information on the full-time coverage they receive from WCSD.  Jamaica and Londonderry receive shared coverage; Johnson-Aplin will attempt to get information on how the town and its residents manage and assess this coverage.
  4.  Several items were put on hold until Powling received funding requests from the Planning Commission, Town Clerk, Treasurer, and other commissions. Powling was asked to provide the Selectboard with a wage comparison from other towns.
  5. Other needed information from VLCT on the insurance policy for capital assets, unemployment insurance, and worker’s compensation rates.  Blue Cross Blue Shield health insurance for the employees and the contract for the professional audit expenses.

Items tabled for future budget meetings.

  • Capital Budget
  • Expenditures
  • Open Items
  • Articles including Social Appropriation Donations
  • Salaries
  • Warnings

ADJOURN:

Chevalier made a motion to adjourn. The meeting was adjourned at 7:37 P.M.

Respectfully Submitted,
Wannetta Powling,
Administrative Assistant

 

 

Newfane Board of Liquor Control Agenda Monday November 6th, 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
  • REVIEW APPLICATION         
  1. Special Catering Event at the Williamsville Hall –Whetstone Station Restaurant & Brewery
  2. Special Catering Event at Rescue- The Black Pearl LLC
  • ADJOURN

Selectboard Regular Meeting Agenda Monday, November 6th, 2023

Please Note: Newfane will now require Zoom participants to remain muted. If they wish to be recognized, they must raise their hand, and the Chair will identify 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
    1. October 16th, 2023 Regular Minutes
    2. October 30th, 2023 Budget Minutes
    3. September 14th, 2023 Special Minutes
  • ROAD FOREMAN’S & ROAD COMMISSIONER’S REPORT
    1. Update on Emergency Watershed Program Grants
    2. Access Permit – 302 Newfane Hill Road /Tyler Russell
  •  ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT’S REPORT
  • COMMITTEE REPORT                                                                                                                                    Traffic Calming Committee
  • SCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ( 3-5 Minutes) 6:40 P.M.
    1. Grace Cottage Hospital – Andrea Seaton
    2. NewBrook News – Jane Douglas
    3. Windham County Humane Society – Maya Richmond
    4. Green-Up Vermont – Kate Alberghini
    5. SEVCA- Executive Director, Ms. Kathleen Devlin
    6. Aids Project of S. Vermont Samba Diallo Executive Director
    7. VT Adult Learning- Matthew Bentley
  • UNSCHEDULED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC

  • NEW BUSINESS
  • OLD BUSINESS / FOLLOW-UP ITEMS (10 Minutes per topic)
    1. Town Beautification suggestions (Chevalier)
    2. FEMA buyout of South Newfane General Store (Golob)
    3. ARPA Funds Updates (Golob)
    4. Personnel Policy changes/ recommendation (Johnson-Aplin/Chevalier)
  • CORRESPONDENCE
    Rock River Players – Thank you letter ARPA donation
    Grace Cottage Hospital- Thank you for the FY 2023 donations
  • PAY ORDERS
      1. Payroll # 11649                 $ 6,927.41
      2. Payroll # 11650                 $ 6,684.70
      3. AP # 24010                         $ 464,994.03
      4. AP # 24011                         N/A    at the time of posting
      5. Payroll # 11651                  N/A    at the time of posting
  • ADJOURN

 

The Board of Liquor Control will review applications during the Selectboard Regular Meeting