HomeMy WebLinkAbout2002-02-26 Board of Selectmen Executive Session Minutes Board of Selectmen Meeting
Executive Session
February 26, 2002
The Executive Session convened at 7:10 p.m. in the Conference Room, 16 Lowell Street,
Reading, Massachusetts. Present were Chairman George Hines, Vice Chairman Camille
Anthony (arrived at 7:15 p.m.), Selectmen Richard Schubert and Gail Wood, Town Manager
Peter Hechenbleikner, Town Counsel Joan Langsam, Labor Counsel Nathan Kaitz, Police Chief
Bob Silva and Paula Schena.
Litigation
RMLD — Chairman George Hines noted that he met with Joan Langsam, the Town Manager and
Light Department representatives and Counsel. They feel that they will be able to reimburse us
for the audit. The Town Manager noted that people have commented that the General Manager
should not have the company vehicle while on the leave of absence. The audit will be done at
least 10 days before the leave of absence is over.
Eaton Injunction — Chairman George Hines noted that we have lost one or two good candidates
and he is suggesting appealing the stay. The consensus of the Board was not to appeal due to
costs.
Beede Superfund Issue - Town Counsel noted that the communities have joined together and
each municipality pays a portion. The tentative settlement is $4.85 per gallon equaling $5825.
Town Counsel noted that the Town could go after who is responsible but they are bankrupt. The
Town Manager recommends settling.
Labor Negotiations
Parking Enforcement Officer - Labor Counsel Nathan Kaitz noted that there is language in the
Police contracts that states all police work should be assigned to officers and retirees. Although
it is talking about details, he feels an arbitrator could apply it to anything. He noted that if we
ask the officers to give up a duty, then we have to give them something in return. There has to
be some give and take. He indicated that the Union is suggesting that if the force goes below 38,
then the P.E.O. would be laid off rather than a Police Officer. Attorney Kaitz noted that the
Town could put some time frames around it. If the Union keeps throwing in other issues, then
you are at an impasse and can go ahead and implement.
On motion by Schubert seconded by Wood, the Board voted to adjourn the Executive Session of
February 26, 2002 at 7:50 p.m. On a roll call vote, all four members voted in the affirmative and
the Executive Session was adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Secretary � /