HomeMy WebLinkAbout2002-04-09 Board of Selectmen Executive Session Minutes Board of Selectmen Meeting
Executive Session
April 9, 2002
The Executive Session convened at 7:00 p.m. in the Berger Room, 16 Lowell Street, Reading,
Massachusetts. Present were Chairman George Hines, Vice Chairman Camille Anthony,
Secretary Matthew Cummings, Selectmen Richard Schubert and Gail Wood, Town Manager
Peter Hechenbleikner, Police Chief Robert Silva, Police Officers Chris Picco, Derek Holmes,
John McKenna and Mark Segalla, Paula Schena.
The Town Manager noted that he is at an impasse with the Patrol Officers regarding the issue of
defibrillators. The Police Union has requested this meeting with the Board of Selectmen.
Police Officer Chris Picco noted that they have been bargaining in good faith regarding the use
of defibrillators with compensation. He also noted that they had an agreement twice but the
Selectmen rejected each one. They are seeking compensation because this is an added
responsibility and liability, and other towns pay their Police for this responsibility.
Selectman Matthew Cummings noted that what they were asking for would have cost $10,000
and the budget is already short $125,000.
Officer Derek Holmes noted that Woburn pays $750 per Police Officer, and Andover and North
Andover pay$1000 per Police Officer.
Vice Chairman Camille Anthony noted that they offered $125 per Officer because that is what
the Fire Fighters get.
The Town Manager asked if the Union has agreed to accept the $125 if not tied to the Parking
Enforcement Officer, and Officer Chris Picco noted that it has not.
The Town Manager suggested discussing the Parking Enforcement Officer.
Officer Chris Picco noted that this has always been a Police function, and it is part of their
contract that a civilian cannot do a Police function.
Selectman Richard Schubert noted that this would lead to a more successful Downtown and
revenues would increase.
Officer John McKenna noted that an Officer can fulfill these duties plus provide added security.
Chairman George Hines noted that the business owners like the Square Officer but are being told
that staffing doesn't allow for this.
Selectman Gail Wood noted that duties change; i.e., Dispatchers use to be Police Officers.
Board of Selectmen Meeting—Executive Session- April 9, 2002—Page_2
The Police Officers left the meeting.
The Selectmen decided to continue discussion of these issues at their next meeting.
A motion by Cummings seconded by Wood to adjourn the Executive Session at 8:10 p.m. was
approved on a roll call vote with all five members voting in the affirmative.
Respectfully submitted,
Secretary Q�J