HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008-08-06 Finance Committee Minutes~p~ OFR
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Finance Committee Meeting
August 6, 2008
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READINGO MASS.
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The meeting convened at 7:15 p.m. in the Conference Room, 16 Lowell Street, Reading,
Massachusetts. Present were Chairman George Hines, Committee members Hal
Torman, Barry Berman, David Greenfield, Marsie West and Jay Tangney. Also
present were Town Manager Peter Hechenbleikner and Library Director Ruth Urell.
George Hines called the meeting to order at 7:15 PM. Peter Hechenbleikner introduced
Ruth Urell and explained to the Committee that the Library is asking for a reserve fund
transfer in the amount of $22,625.00 to repair the main entrance landscaping. He
explained that this project was an Eagle Scout project with the Garden Club but needs
more work than expected. Ruth Urell showed a video of the Library grounds and
explained the work that is needed. Ruth Urell passed out the landscape plan details that
were designed by the Garden Club. The project includes retaining walls, railings and
posts. She reported the ramp is okay as long as the railings are fixed. Peter
Hechenbleikner reported that the Town Engineer looked at the project and thought it was
a good solution. Ruth Urell reported this project should take about a week once the
Mason starts. At this time Ruth Urell stated that the Architectural study of the Library is
about 80% complete. George Hines asked that the Finance Committee be informed when
it is completed.
On motion by Barrv Berman seconded by Marsie West to approve the transfer of
$22,625.00 from the reserve fund for the Library repairs. At this time George Hines
commented on the risk issues of volunteerism and, the board should be more aware.
Fincom voted 6-0-0
George Hines moved onto tonight's agenda. First item Liaison reports. Marsie West
reported on Public Safety. Nothing coming up financially, under capital planning they are
looking for a pump truck and Chief Cormier will be requesting for portable radios.
George Hines attended the Selectman Meetings regarding Highway/roads. Selectman
asked about different scenarios, will try to stay in the loop.
At this time the board discussed at great length the road work; cement over asphalt,
curbing or no curbing, etc. It was agreed that we need a pavement management plan.
Moving on to the next item on the agenda Capital Planning Process, George Hines
handed out a memo he sent 10/26/04 regarding Capital Planning. It proposed that the
Board set up a committee to develop a process which projects are identified, evaluated
and prioritized. Peter Hechenbleikner explained to the board how projects are priorities
at this time. Some concerns were do we really need another committee and will anyone
be interested. The board further discussed having an Ad Hoc or a sub committee.
George Hines will let the Selectman and the School Committee know that the Finance
Committee had this discussion. This could lead to fewer surprises. George Hines handed
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the Finance Committee's Mission State/Guiding principles for everyone to review.
Marsie West asked if the discussion can continue at the next meeting. She will be the
point person if any one has any questions.
Peter Hechenbleikner informed the board that included in tonight's packet is a copy of
the Compensation Analysis of the School Department and the answers to the questions
that board had for Pat Schettini. George Hines asked that everyone look over the study
for the next meeting. Peter Hechenbleikner gave a run down on where they are at on the
Town side of the study. He spoke about health care and how a major factor this is within
the study.
On page 2 of the agenda, Peter Hechenbleikner discussed the memo from Bob LeLacheur
regarding Financial Reporting. A written report will be created to report any new
financial information at Fincom meeting and maybe put this on the website. Also on
page 3 of the agenda is the information Fincom requested from Gail LaPointe of
unspent/unencumbered appropriations.
Next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, September 10 @ 7:15 PM
The board reviewed the minutes of July 16, 2008. Marsie West asked if the board could
receive the minutes 24 hours in advance to the meeting. George Hines will talk to Bob
LeLacheur.
On motion by Marsie West seconded by Hal Torman to accept the minutes of the
meeting dated July 16, 2008. Fincom voted 5-0-1
On motion by Marsie West seconded by Hal Torman the meeting was adjourned at
9:10 PM on a vote of 6-0-0
Respectfully submitted,
Secretary