AGENDA # 3 LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT:

(Approved at the Town Council meeting on December 6, 2021.  Read into the record by President Kustell.)

“Aquene (Peace) We recognize the unique and enduring relationship that exists between Indigenous Peoples and their traditional territories.  We acknowledge that we are in the ancestral homeland of the Pokanoket Tribe within the original territory of the Pokanoket Nation.  We commit to ongoing efforts to recognize, honor, reconcile and partner with the Pokanoket people whose ancestral lands and water we benefit from today.  Aquene (Peace)”

President Kustell announced that there have been several items that were withdrawn from the agenda this evening:

AGENDA ITEM #4: Announcements (Town Manager)

DISCUSS AND ACT ON THE CONSENT AGENDA: 

All items with an asterisk (*) are routine by the Town Council and will be enacted by one motion.  There will be no separate discussion on these items unless a council member or citizen so request, and the request is for good cause in which event the item will be removed from the consent agenda and will be considered in its normal sequence on the agenda.

Motion by President Kustell and seconded by Vice President Humm to accept the Consent Agenda #5-#15 except for agenda item #12 regarding a victualling license, The Daily Scoop, which was withdrawn.  The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway, and Councilman Cloutier, no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.

*AGENDA ITEM #5 ACCEPT RESIGNATIONS: (none)

*AGENDA ITEM #6 APPROVE REAPPOINTMENT(S) TO BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS: (none)

*AGENDA ITEM #7 ACCEPT TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES

*AGENDA #8 MONTHLY DEPARTMENT REPORTS (FEBRUARY ’23): 

*AGENDA ITEM #9 APPROVE ABATEMENT LIST: (none)

*AGENDA ITEM #10 APPROVE SURPLUS PROPERTY: (none)

*AGENDA ITEM #11 ACKNOWLEDGE CORRESPONDENCE:

It was voted to accept the correspondence.  See Consent Agenda motion above.

AGENDA ITEM #16:  Discuss and Act:   Interviews and Appointments (none)

AGENDA ITEM #17: Presentation by School Committee Chair Patrick McCrann on the School Construction Project.

TM Comment: School Committee Chair Patrick McCrann will be providing the Council with an update on the school construction project.

School Committee Chair Patrick McCrann was present to update the Council members on the school construction project.  Chair McCrann discussed the importance of the next five (5) months in which a crucial timeline must be met for approvals and votes of the various stakeholders.

Vice President Humm suggested, when developing plans, please seriously consider the strong need for fields.

Chair McCrann stated that the fields would have to be new and not an upgrade to an existing field for reimbursements from RIDE. 

Solicitor Ursillo clarified that there are many deadlines that are fast approaching.  He explained that the RI General Assembly will be ending their session very soon, and resolutions will need to be submitted to the state’s lawmakers.  The resolution, said Solicitor Ursillo, must contain a clear narrative of the construction project plans and must be to the Town Council for their approval by May 1^st.  It is important that once the legislation is adopted, the voters will know exactly what the money will be used for and what the construction project will include. He strongly advised that you do not want to get a bill in front of the legislature in the last week or two of its deliberations because it would not go over well. 

AGENDA ITEM #18: DISCUSS AND ACT ON RESOLUTIONS:

AGENDA ITEM #19:  Discuss and Act on Ordinances:

PUBLIC HEARINGS:

AGENDA ITEM #20: Discuss and Act:  Revised American Rescue Plan Funding Budget (ARPA)

TM Comment:  The Town has made progress on the list of American Rescue Plan-funded projects, as approved by the Town Council. Several projects have been completed, allowing for the reallocation of unspent funds to other projects. The Town has identified other projects where we recommend increased allocations or reductions, based on our assessment of the need.

The recommended updated ARPA funding list is below.

Councilwoman Berard asked for clarification on the IT Closet with fiber optics.  Town Manager Hervey commented that he hopes to install live streaming into the council chambers.  He said that additional time is needed to upgrade the WIFI.

Councilwoman Berard asked for additional information regarding the Town Manager’s memo, page 5 – item #15 Latham Park, Allin’s Cove erosion.  Town Manager Hervey explained that the project is being re-evaluated and requires an additional design.  Councilwoman Berard stated that this is a very important project.

Councilwoman Berard asked for Town Manager Hervey to comment on page 5 – item #18 Kids Kove Playground Improvements.  Town Manager Hervey stated that there is a concern with the safety of the ADA swing.  He said that it requires further research and proposed to re-evaluate and continue to research further.

Councilwoman Berard requested clarification regarding the drainage issue located at the Senior Center access ramp (see item #13/page 4).  Town Manager Hervey explained that it appears that the drainage issue has been resolved with a low-cost solution.  He recommends holding $25,000 as a safeguard.

Councilwoman Conway commented on page 7 of the Town Manager’s memo regarding item # 34 Tennis Court resurfacing in which the schools have verbally agreed to cover 50% of the project cost, including RIDE reimbursement, as requested by the Town Council as a condition to commit ARPA funding for this project.  Requesting Council approval to add to ARPA budget on May 1, 2023.

(Motion following the ARPA chart below.)

ARPA PROJECTS APPROVED BY COUNCIL, WITH RECOMMENDED REVISIONS (4/3/23)

Summary of recommended revisions:

·       Ref. #10, Fiber Optic Upgrades. Extend fiber optic internet access to Town Hall, DPW; link all town buildings to improve service, firewall. Recommend reducing from $77,000 to $0. We anticipate broadband grant funding available through the State/Federal government could be available for this project.

·       Ref. #10, 800 mHz radios for Public Safety. 800 MHz radios required for the Fire Department. Estimated cost: $7,000 each.  Project is complete. Actual cost: $73,604.08. Recommend reallocation of remaining $1,396 balance.

·       Ref. #13, Fix drainage problem at senior center access ramp due to roof runoff pouring onto ADA ramp. DPW cleared blocked drainpipe where water discharges into ground, which seems to have fixed the issue based on observations over this past winter. Recommend holding $25,000 in case additional drainage work is required, which would be added to the amount spent to date totaling $1,793.75. Recommend reducing the original approved amount of $125,000 to $26,794.

·       Ref. #18, Kids Kove Playground Improvements. Fix surface, repair equipment, add ADA swings. $15,000 in ARPA previously approved for this purpose. Recommend reallocating all this funding (reduced to $0), as research suggests wheelchair swing not a good fit for playground. The Town has other funding available in the budget for repairs to the surface and equipment.

·       Ref. # 22, Rooftop Units at Library.  Energy Audit recommends replacement of rooftop heating/air units (also a priority of the Library). The council previously approved $280,000 for this project based on cost estimate. Town recommends awarding $381,663 bid for this work (see separate agenda item). Recommend increasing the ARPA funding for this project from $280,000 to $381,663.

·       Ref. #23, A/C in Council Chamber. Ductless split units have been installed in the Council Chamber at a cost of $50,710. Recommend reducing the amount budgeted for this project to $50,710 and reallocating $5,071 of unused project contingency.

·       Ref. #24, A/C - 2nd floor Bay Spring Comm. Center. Ductless split units installed to heat and cool 2nd floor of Community Center at a cost of $26,854. needed. Recommend reducing the amount budgeted for this project to $26,854 and reallocating $2,685 of unused project contingency.

·       Ref. #26, Town Hall Boilers. RISE boiler project cost $89,500. Council approved ARPA funds totaling $9,500, plus $8,950 for 10% contingency for project. The balance of $80,000 came from capital funds. $8,950 contingency not needed. Recommend reducing the amount of ARPA funding budgeted for this project to $9,500 and reallocating $8,950 of unused project contingency.

·       Ref. #27, Town Hall – Exterior Repairs. Funding totaling $10,000 added to capital funds to cover cost of extensive repairs needed as part of exterior paint job and add to project contingency. Actual amount spent: $1,485.  Recommend reducing total to $1,485 and reallocating $8,515 unspent balance.

·       Ref. #33, Beach shade structure. Shade structure in front of beach building is a priority of the Park and Recreation Commission. Recommend budgeting $24,540 in ARPA funds to cover bid price of $24,540 (see Bid award agenda item).

·       Ref. #34, Lincoln Avenue/BHS Tennis Courts. Resurface Lincoln Avenue courts across from BHS (6 courts).  Schools have verbally agreed to cover 50% of the project cost, including RIDE reimbursement, as requested by the Town Council (7/25/22) as a condition to commit ARPA funding for this project. Recommend budgeting up to $60,000 in ARPA funds for this project to cover the Town’s share of the cost (TBD).

If approved as presented, the status of the Town’s ARPA funds would be as follows:

Motion by Vice President Humm and seconded by Councilwoman Conway to approve the updated American Rescue Plan budget as presented.  The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway, and Councilman Cloutier, no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.

AGENDA ITEM #21: Discuss and Act on Bid(s):

AGENDA ITEM #22: PRESENT, DISCUSS AND ACT ON ELECTRICITY AGGREGATION WITH GOOD ENERGY REPRESENTATIVE JAMIE RHODES:

TM Comment: Jamie Rhodes of Good Energy, the Town’s consultant managing the community electricity aggregation program, will be attending to present on the program and answer any questions.

President Kustell welcomed back Good Energy Representative Jamie Rhodes to update and brief the Council.  President Kustell said that Mr. Rhodes attended the meeting last month (March 6^th) with updates and information and participated in a recent informational session, with over 280 participants which is now on the website for all to review.

Mr. Rhodes highlighted the key components of the electricity aggregation program which allows us to increase/purchase additional renewables.  As we team up with other cities and towns it will provide lower rates on the cost of electricity.

Mr. Rhodes explained that the deadline has been extended to opt out of the program.  He explained that every Monday that Good Energy meets with NextEra.  He said that they keep us posted with the opt out rate which is currently at 5% and that there are those that did not receive a letter approximately 1%, which will be sent another letter.  Those that receive this letter will have an opt-out date deadline within 30 days.

AGENDA ITEM #26. DISCUSS AND ACT:  RECREATION FIELDS AND FACILITIES (R. HUMM)

TM Comment: The Town is continuing to work on the questions in the Council motion passed at the January 10^th meeting “to explore on separate but parallel tracks:

1.      whether to build a recreation center in Barrington;

2.      whether to install a synthetic turf field in Barrington; and,

3.      ways to improve the overall maintenance of Barrington’s fields, including whether to develop a dedicated field maintenance team.”

The motion further stated the Town should include the following action items:

1.      Sending out a survey to residents asking questions and opinions regarding each of the three issues; [Comment: The Town posted an online survey on January 13^th, which was active through February 17^th. The survey generated a total of 787 responses. (Discussed in greater detail in the materials provided to the Council for the March meeting)]

2.      Referring the three issues to all of the Boards and Commissions listed on page 32 of the “Improving Barrington’s Fields and Recreational Facilities” presentation from the January 9, 2023 Town Council meeting, including the School Committee, and in addition to the Conservation Commission and any other appropriate Board or Commission; [Comment: The only comments received to date are from the Economic Development Commission, which passed motions at two separate meetings.

At the Feb. 27^th EDC meeting, the Commission passed a motion recommending the Town make every responsible effort to secure a large enough parcel of land to support a plan for new athletic fields and recreation center with consideration to sell 25 Watson to offset the acquisition of the entire Zion property for that purpose and other uses consistent with the Town’s master plan.   Motion carried (7 in favor of motion, no opposition).

At the January 19^th EDC meeting, the Commission discussed the newest conceptual plan for the development of the Zion site and consideration of the Town to acquire space for a Recreation Center.  The EDC unanimously (9-0) passed the following motion: “The EDC is requesting the Town Council provide a review and comment of drafted survey prior to its release to ensure inclusivity of all communities within Barrington and economic impact with consideration to acquire space for a recreation center to help further discussion of the following items:

1.      whether to build a recreation center in Barrington;

2.      whether to install a synthetic turf field in Barrington; and,

3.      ways to improve the overall maintenance of Barrington’s fields, including whether to develop a dedicated field maintenance team.”

3.      holding public workshops to discuss and develop the three issues for public awareness and to solicit public feedback; [Comment: The Council has held one workshop so far (the February 1^st workshop). Second one is scheduled for April 19^th, to be held in the Senior Center. Recommend focusing the workshop to get input on the recreation center/fieldhouse concept.]

4.      commissioning preliminary, efficient, and cost-effective studies by consultants to review the issues involving a recreation center and synthetic turf field, including engineering and other technical studies, feasibility studies, traffic studies, or other reasonable and cost-effective preliminary studies; and, [Comment: At the February 6^th meeting the Council approved motions authorizing 1) $40,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funding for the completion of a recreation center/fieldhouse feasibility study, and 2) $50,000 from the Field Maintenance Fund for the completion of a fields assessment and feasibility study.

We have issued two Requests for Qualifications and Proposals. Links are below. Anticipate requesting Council authorization at the May 1^st meeting to contract with the recommended consultants.

5.      obtaining more information on potential locations for a recreation center and synthetic turf field.  [Comment: this question will be examined in the recreation center/fieldhouse study, mentioned above]

President Kustell stated that a Workshop has been set for Wednesday, April 19, 2023 from 7-8:30pm to be held at the Sr. Center.

Vice President Humm stated that his plan is to focus on one (1) specific project, Recreation Facilities Center.  Discussion ensued regarding a very experienced facilitator who will lead the workshop.

AGENDA ITEM #27. Discuss and Act:  Town Council Contingency Fund (P. Hervey)

•           Funding for Facilitator for Council’s Goal Setting Retreat

TM Comment: The Council held a goal-setting retreat facilitated by Emily Morash, at a cost of approximately $1,500 (including preparation and attendance via Zoom of the goal-setting session, which took over 2 hours. Other past retreats were held at the Interlocal Trust. The Council has indicated interest in holding a retreat this year, but details have not yet been determined (date, location, agenda, facilitator, budget…). We’ve reached out to a facilitator from Rhode Island who is working on a fee proposal to provide these services. I anticipate having an amount to share with the Council prior to or at the meeting.

Motion by Councilman Cloutier and seconded by Councilwoman Conway to approve $1000 from the Council Contingency for a facilitator at the Council’s 2023 Goal-Setting Retreat.  The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway, and Councilman Cloutier, no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.

•           Funding for Facilitator for Recreation Facilities and Fields Workshop

TM Comment: The Council may wish to hire a facilitator for the next Recreation Facilities and Fields Workshop public workshop (April 19^th). The facilitator mentioned above (Council goal-setting retreat) also is providing a fee estimate for hosting this workshop.

Motion by Councilwoman Conway and seconded by Vice President Humm to approve $1000 from the Council Contingency for a facilitator at the Recreation Facilities and Fields Workshop public workshop on April 19^th.  The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway, and Councilman Cloutier, no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.

•           Funding for the Town Seal Design Contest

TM Comment: I have formed an administrative committee to assist with a Town Seal redesign contest, modeled on a similar contest by the City of Fall River. Fall River awarded a $500 prize to the winner of the contest. I propose a prize of $100 each for the runners-up. We’re proposing selecting a short-list of six designs, with the community voting in-person to select the winner. Details of the voting process are being worked out, but that final vote likely would take place in the fall. Additional costs related to the contest are to be determined.

Councilman Cloutier asked, “How do we include the members of the DEI Committee, and the Economic Development Committee and the Preservation Society?”

Town Manager Hervey stated that there is an administrative committee that is working with all the members of these committees (DEI, EDC and Preservation Society).

Councilwoman Conway questioned if the Town Council will have the final vote.

Town Manager Hervey stated affirmatively that the Town Council will have the final voter.

Motion by Councilwoman Conway and seconded by Vice President Humm to approve $1,000 from the Council Contingency for prize money for the finalists in the Town Seal redesign contest.  The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway, and Councilman Cloutier, no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.

AGENDA ITEM #28. UPDATE:  LIAISON REPORTS

TM Comment: Standing agenda item to provide Council members the opportunity to provide information in their capacity as liaison to various boards, commissions, and organizations.

President Kustell, as the liaison to the Energy and Resilience Committee said that there are a lot of votes for electrification, especially with new construction in Town.  He discussed the benefits of battery technology.

Councilman Cloutier, as liaison to the to the Economic Development Commission discussed their concerns about energy costs. 

Councilman Cloutier, as liaison to the Economic Development Committee held a meeting on March 16th.  He briefed the Council in which the committee discussed the energy prices regarding the electricity aggregation program, is looking forward to a discussion on a diversified tax base.

Councilman Cloutier, as liaison to the DEI Committee discussed the concerns that they would like to have additional training (discussed during the Town Council budget review with an increase to the line item for training) and would like to establish and the accessibility regarding a zoom account to stream and have participation with those at home.  He commented that there has been more residents participating at these meetings.  They are looking forward to the Memorial Day Parade and how it will be as inclusive as possible.

Councilwoman Berard, as liaison to the Housing Board of Trustees and commented that they have three (3) vacancies on their board, that they are looking at the trends regarding expanding the commercial zones to also include housing.  She mentioned that other areas have transit-oriented housing, and the group will discuss those areas that are on the bus routes.  She said another area for discussion will be the cost of living and looking at the incomes of those in various careers with regard to fair market housing.   

Councilwoman Berard serves as the liaison to the Bicycle Pedestrian Committee and commented that there are many engaged, experienced and qualified members.  She expressed that all of these members that serve on our boards are volunteers that donate many hours of their time, and she appreciates their efforts.

Councilwoman Berard discussed Union Studio regarding the Carmelite Monastery special meeting that was held on March 28th and said that there were interesting comments regarding the shell fishing industry and the runoff to that particular portion of water.

Councilwoman Conway gave kudos to the Barrington Public Library with their April fools joke and highlighting Dwayne Johnson.

Councilwoman Conway said that she is the liaison for the School Committee, but School Committee Chair Patrick McCrann highlighted the points earlier this evening.

AGENDA ITEM #29. PUBLIC COMMENT

(Maximum 3-minute statement)

To the public:  This agenda item is for members of the public to speak regarding a topic that is not already on the agenda.  Please indicate that you would like to speak by raising your hand.  When you are recognized, please state your name and residency for the record.

AGENDA ITEM #30. Set Agenda for the Monday, May 1, 2023, at 7:00pm Town Council Meeting

·       Discuss and Act:  Bay Spring Community Center to Enter into a Long-Term Lease with SOLECT Solar Installation

·       Resolution regarding Gun Violence Prevention

·       Resolution for the Proposed School Building

ADJOURN:

Motion by Vice President Humm to adjourn the meeting at 8:37 PM.  The motion passed 5-0-0-0 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Cloutier; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions. 

__________________________________________

Meredith J. DeSisto, CMC, Barrington Town Clerk