Selectboard Meeting Minutes
Otis Town Hall
Conference Room
Tuesday, August 09, 2022, at 6:30 PM
This meeting will be held in person at the location provided on this notice. Members of the public are welcome to attend. A remote option is offered via zoom with the link provided below.
Please note that while an option for remote participation is being provided as a courtesy, the meeting will not be suspended or terminated if technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast, unless otherwise required by law. Anyone with interest in any specific item should plan in person attendance.
Topic: Selectboard
Time: Aug 9, 2022 06:30 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
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Attendance: Chair Larry Southard, Gary Thomas, Terry Gould, Brandi Page, Celeste Watman, John & Denise Harwood, Lisa Thomas, Alan Minery & on zoom : Kelly Hamden and Doreen Hoddinott.
Call to Order: 6:31 PM
Approval of Minutes: The minutes from 7/26 were approved as written.
Beavers: The map was reviewed and the Board was presented with a photo from the 90’s to show the extent of the territory the beavers have altered. Larry had spoken with Bruce. Bruce had looked at the map and was going to reach out to the state for guidance. The Harwoods spoke about their property near the school and having to drill a new well. Everyone agreed that the situation changes as the State changed the laws regarding dealing with the beavers. Discussion centered on what the best solution is and can the State be pressured to help. Terry suggested a letter to various State departments and possibly even Smitty to gain attention and possible assistance. Larry made a motion to request an emergency order form Conservation to minimally breach dams that are accessible to the town’s equipment to relieve flooding. Gary seconded, motion passed unanimously.
Town Beach: Gary had a conversation with Heather and Tammy in the Police Department. We are not seeing enough passes on the cars at the Beach. Discussion to consider going up on the cost of passes next year and hiring an attendant that could sell passes. Gary suggested adding the language“Town residents only-Permit required” to the signs that say Town Beach. The Board discussed the cones and it was decided we should have the Police remove them. Mr Hoddinott spoke to say that if the Town could come up with a way to reduce the speeding on that road the residents would gladly remove the cones. Brandi asked about exploring speed bumps. Celeste had spoken to say that they have no effect in the woodlands. Mr Hoddinott felt it was definitely worth trying the speed bumps. He also suggested additional speed limit signs and said the Police are doing a good job. Larry thanked the Hoddinotts for being on the meeting. He made a motion to explore updating the signage, adding additional speed limit signs, increased patrol and speed bumps. Gary seconded and passed unanimously.
Review & Approval of Warrants: Payroll and vendor warrants are on the table for signature.
Not Anticipated: Celeste asked for an update on Harmony Hall. We stated that Historic had been informed of us intending to close the building.
Adjournment: 7:45 PM