Monday, March 6, 2023
Amey Tucker Spencer Fund Trust (In-person) 6:30 P.M.
Town Council Sitting in their Capacity as Trustees
Followed by
Town Council Meeting
Attachments can be found: https://clerkshq.com/barrington-ri
Video: https://vimeo.com/showcase/9672722
Present: (Town Council sitting as Trustees): Trustee President Annelise Conway, Trustee Vice President Carl Kustell, Trustee Kate Berard, Trustee Robert Humm (arrived late: 6:44pm) and Trustee Braxton Medlin
Also, Present: Town Manager Phil Hervey, Assistant Town Solicitor Amy Goins, Planning Director Teresa Crean and Town Clerk Meredith J. DeSisto
President Conway called the AMEY TUCKER SPENCER TRUST FUND MEETING to order at 6:35 P.M.
Motion by Vice President Kustell and seconded by Trustee Humm to approve the Amey Tucker Spencer Trust Fund minutes from February 6, 2023. The motion passed in favor 4-0-0-1, President Conway, Vice President Kustell, Trustee Berard and Trustee Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and (1) one abstention, Trustee Humm (was not present for the vote).
Current Trustee President Conway asked for nominations for Trustee President. Current Trustee Vice President Kustell nominated Annelise Conway and Trustee Berard seconded. Motion by current Vice President Kustell and seconded by Trustee Berard for current Trustee President Conway to continue as Trustee President passed in favor 4-0-0-1, President Conway, Current Vice President Kustell, Trustee Berard, Trustee Medlin, no one opposed, no recusals and one (1) abstention, Trustee Humm (was not present for the vote).
President Conway nominated Trustee Medlin for Trustee Vice President and current Vice President Kustell seconded. Motion by Trustee President Conway and seconded by current Vice President Kustell for Trustee Medlin to be the Trustee Vice President passed in favor, 4-0-0-1, President Conway, Current Vice President Kustell, Trustee Berard, and Trustee Medlin, no one opposed, no recusals and one (1) abstention, Trustee Humm (was not present for the vote).
(Trustee Humm arrived at 6:44pm)
Spencer Trust Administrator Debra Page-Trim was present to discuss the FY23 Funding Requests as follows:
Funding Requests - (Application deadline Saturday, December 31, 2022)
The Town sent the Spencer Trust funding request application form to previous funding recipients in November 2022 and a reminder was sent in December 2022.
Motion by Trustee President Conway and seconded by Trustee Vice President Medlin to accept and fully fund the requests for funding:
· $20,000 – East Bay Community Action Program (EBCAP): $5,000 less requested than received in 2022. $0 – Crisis and $20,000 - Operating (Application #1)
· $5,000 – Tap-In: (Application #2)
· $1,183 $5,000*– Barrington Farm School: $3,817 requested more than received in 2022,
(Application #3) (*DPTrim amended during her discussion).
· $5,000 – Meals on Wheels of RI, Inc.: (Application #4)
The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Conway, Vice President Medlin, Trustee Berard, Trustee Humm and Trustee Kustell; no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.
Town Manager Hervey requested that the Trustees approve the FY23 Management Fees:
Spencer Trust Management Fees
· $26,000 – Management Fees
Motion by Trustee Vice President Medlin and seconded by Trustee Berard to approve the Management Fees of $26,0000 for FY23. The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Conway, Vice President Medlin, Trustee Berard, Trustee Humm and Trustee Kustell; no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.
There was no one that wished to speak.
Motion by Vice President Medlin to adjourn the Amey Tucker Spencer Trust Fund meeting at 6:45 PM. The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Conway, Vice President Medlin, Trustee Berard, Trustee Humm and Trustee Kustell; no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.
________________________________
Meredith J. DeSisto, CMC, Town Clerk
Minutes
Monday, March 6, 2023
TOWN COUNCIL Meeting
Followed after the Spencer Trust meeting.
Town Hall – Council Chamber
Barrington, RI
Attachments can be found: https://clerkshq.com/barrington-ri
Video: https://vimeo.com/showcase/9672722
Present: President Carl P. Kustell, Vice President Robert Humm, Councilwoman Kate Berard, Councilwoman Annelise Conway and Councilman Braxton Medlin
Also, Present: Town Manager Phil Hervey, Assistant Town Solicitor Amy Goins, and Town Clerk Meredith J. DeSisto
Department Heads: Finance Director Kathy Raposa, Fire Chief Gerald Bessette, Police Chief Michael Correia, Human Resources Director Mari-Ann Oliveira, Library Director Kristin Chin, Public Works Director Alan Corvi, Recreation and Senior Services Director Michele Geremia, Tax Assessor Jay Drew and Town Planner Teresa Crean
Council President Kustell called the meeting to order at 6:48 P.M.
President Kustell led us into the Pledge of Allegiance.
(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)”
Janine Wolf, 5 Atlantic Crossing objected to the reading of the Land Acknowledgement.
President Kustell stated, “Ms. Wolf, you are out of order, but you can make a statement during Public Comment.”
· Community Electricity Aggregation Program is launching. Announcements have been mailed to customers of RI Energy in Barrington. Customers are automatically in the program unless they Opt-Out. For more, go to BarringtonCommunityElectricity.com.
Motion by President Kustell and seconded by Councilwoman Berard to add, Discuss Community Electricity Aggregation Program with Good Energy. The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway, and Councilman Medlin, no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.
Jamie Rhodes from Good Energy was present and discussed the Community Electricity Aggregation Program. He explained that the program aims to help the community members manage electricity costs, increase renewable energy use and reduce carbon pollution. This program was approved by the Town Council in June 2020. He said that residents, by now, should have received a postcard telling them that an additional letter is on the way.
Mr. Rhodes explained that the letter that residents will receive will explain the options (1) automatically enrolled no action needed, (2) Choose to enroll in another Barrington product or (3) Choose to continue with RI Energy’s supply called Last Resort Service and that you must opt out before being automatically enrolled.
Mr. Rhodes summarized the electricity supply product rates, fees of $0.001 per kilowatt hour for the Town’s aggregation consultant. He said that you may leave the program at any time by contacting Barrington’s Supplier or visiting the website at BarringtonCommunityElectricity.com.
Mr. Rhodes discussed that RI requires a minimum amount of renewable energy, that the program is served by NextEra Energy Services RI, LLC, and that the PUC reviewed and approved.
President Kustell asked if anyone would like to speak.
Janine Wolf, 5 Atlantic Crossing, questioned how does one parcel out from the “grid” and questioned the verification.
Mr. Rhodes explained that a new energy source label was developed and that there will be quality reports with identifying sources. Discussion ensued with “opt out” process and will be described in the next letter to residents.
President Kustell suggested that the Electricity Aggregation Program be placed on the April 3, 2023. Agenda for discussion.
· Stronger Together, a mental health awareness training for town leadership, is being offered on March 27th and April 5th and a presentation on Anxiety by Ellen Flannery-Schroeder in conjunction with a Health Fair on May 3rd
o Assistant Town Solicitor clarified the drawing is Thursday, March 23, 2023.
· April 1st, registration for BEACH CAMPOUT begins.
o Recreation Director stated that the date is Saturday to Sunday morning, May 20-21.
· Recreation Department is seeking a) certified lifeguards and b) camp counselors who are college students.
All items with an asterisk (*) are routine by the Town Council and will be enacted by one motion.
President Kustell asked if anyone wished to remove anything from the Consent Agenda.
Councilwoman Berard requested that the minutes, agenda # 7, be removed from the Consent Agenda for a vote of abstention.
Motion by President Kustell and seconded by Vice President Humm to accept the Consent Agenda #5-#14 except for agenda item #7 minutes. The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway, and Councilman Medlin, no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.
Motion by President Kustell and seconded by Vice President Humm to accept agenda item #7 minutes of the Consent Agenda. The motion passed in favor 3-0-0-2, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, and Councilwoman Conway, no one opposed, no recusals and two (2) abstentions, Councilwoman Berard and Councilman Medlin.
It was voted to reappoint members to boards and commissions as presented. Please see the Consent Agenda motion above.
· Barrington Board of Canvassers:
o Claire L. Boyes to be reappointed as full member, with a term to expire March 31, 2029.
· Economic Development Commission:
o Daniel Horowitz to be reappointed as full member, with a term to expire February 28, 2026.
OF FEBRUARY 1, 6, 9 AND 13, 2023 AND MINUTES FROM THE FINANCIAL TOWN MEETING HELD ON MAY 25, 2022, AND EXECUTIVE SESSION MINUTES FROM JANUARY 9, 2023.
It was voted to adopt the Town Council minutes listed above. See Consent Agenda motion above regarding the accepting of the minutes.
It was voted to adopt the following monthly department reports: Business and Finance Director, Fire Chief, Human Resources, Library Director, Police Chief/Animal Control Official, Public Works Director, Planner/Building and Resiliency, Recreation and Senior Services Director, Tax Assessor and Town Clerk. See Consent Agenda motion above.
It was voted to accept the Abatement List in the amount of $3,657.31 and as described therein. See the Consent Agenda motion above.
It was voted to accept the correspondence. See Consent Agenda motion above.
· BCWA Monthly Reports
It was voted to accept the 2022 Annual Reports from the Boards and Commissions. See the Consent Agenda full motion found above.
It was voted to approve the Class F License from St. Luke’s Knights of Columbus, 108 Washington Road, St. Patrick’s Day Dinner, March 18, 2023, 6-8 St. Luke’s Gym. Applicant: Douglas Johnston. See Consent Agenda above.
It was voted to approve the Nayatt 5K Road Race on April 1, 2023, 9:00am – 2:00pm at Nayatt Elementary School; Venture Endurance Marathon on May 1, 2023, and Memorial Day Parade on May 29, 2023 9:00 – 11:00am. See Consent Agenda above.
DISCUSS AND ACT ON TRANSFER OF OWNERSHIP CLASS BV FULL LIQUOR LICENSE FROM THE 286 CLUB CORPORATION TO OXFORD TAVERN, INC. DBA OXFORD TAVERN, INC. LOCATED AT 286 MAPLE AVENUE. OWNERS: ALAN, LORREE AND ARIELLE MANCHESTER
TM Comment: Public hearing on request to transfer ownership of Class BV Full Liquor License from the 286 Club Corporation to Oxford Tavern, Inc. dba Oxford Tavern, Inc. located at 286 Maple Avenue
President Kustell opened the public hearing for the transfer of ownership of the Class BV Full Liquor License from the 286 Club Corporation to Oxford Tavern, Inc. dba Oxford Tavern, Inc. located at 286 Maple Avenue. Owner: Allan Manchester was present.
President Kustell asked if anyone would like to speak. No one wished to speak.
President Kustell closed the public hearing.
Motion by Vice President Humm and seconded by Councilwoman Berard to approve the transfer of ownership of the Class BV Full Liquor License from the 286 Club Corporation to Oxford Tavern, Inc. dba Oxford Tavern, Inc. located at 286 Maple Avenue contingent upon all requirements being met and compliant with all town ordinances and state statutes and subject to satisfy any debts. The motion passed 5-0-0-0 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
TM Comment: The auditors from Bacon & Company will present a summary of the July 1, 2020 – June 30, 2022, audit.
Cheryl Langevin, Audit Manager and Patricia Boucher, Director, Bacon & Company, LLC presented the Town Audit for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.
Motion by Vice President Humm and seconded by Councilwoman Conway to receive and accept the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for fiscal year ending June 30, 2022, as presented. The motion passed 5-0-0-0 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
TM Comment: The Town Council in January passed a motion establishing a new Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee. Due to the large number of applications received by early February, the Council at the March meeting expanded the committee from nine to 11 full members, plus three alternates, up from the original two. The establishment of the committee, as approved by the Council, is described below.
BARRINGTON BICYCLE-PEDESTRIAN ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Committee Name: Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC)
Charge: To advise the Town administration, Planning Board and Town Council on bicycle and pedestrian projects, plans and policies, fostering a transparent process for decisions regarding bicycles and pedestrians. The BPAC will assist with the following:
1. Provide input to the Town on major projects, including State projects (e.g., Complete Streets Plan implementation, bridge projects, proposed off-road bike/ped facilities, street repaving, Comprehensive Plan updates)
2. Make recommendations on subdivision and land development proposals under review by the Planning Board and Technical Review Committee
3. Evaluate how projects comply with the Town’s Complete Streets Plan, including meeting the needs of people of all ages and physical abilities.
4. Provide constructive guidance on bicycle and pedestrian issues.
5. Ensure residents have an opportunity to give input and receive a response.
Members: Fourteen (14) community members, to include:
· Four (4) with an interest / expertise in bicycling
· Four (4) with an interest / expertise in pedestrian facilities
· Three (3) with a general interest in ped/bike planning
The Council may appoint two three (3) alternates.
The composition of the committee should provide for a variety of perspectives (e.g., parents of school-aged children, people with disabilities, elderly residents, as well as bike/ped experts such as engineers, avid cyclists, and runners).
To be determined: the length of terms for members and the meeting schedule.
The common practice is to establish a Town committee with staggered terms. Recommend establishing these terms before appointing members to the Committee (Agenda Item #18), as described in the draft motion below.
Also, recommending having the BPAC meet on the third Monday of the month at 7 p.m.
President Kustell asked if anyone from the public would like to speak.
Janine Wolf, 5 Atlantic Crossing, asked for clarification on what the project entails.
Councilwoman Berard said that this project has “piggybacked” from the Complete Streets Community Plan.
Motion by President Kustell and seconded by Vice President Humm to establish the regular meeting schedule for the Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee for the third Monday of each month at 7 p.m., and establish terms for members as follows:
· For Full Members: Three (3) one-year terms expiring on March 31, 2024; four (4) two-year terms expiring on March 31, 2025; four (4) three-year terms expiring March 31, 2026.
· For Alternates: One (1) one-year term expiring on March 31, 2024; one (1) two-year term expiring on March 31, 2025; one (1) three-year term expiring March 31, 2026.
The motion passed 5-0-0-0 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
***MOTION AMENDED:
After agenda item #18 Interviews and Appointments, it was determined that 2 applicants out of the 17, were unable to attend the interview process, leaving only 1 applicant that would not be appointed. President Kustell requested to return to agenda item #18 prior to the appointment of applicants and amend the motion as follows:
Amended motion by Vice President Humm and seconded by Councilman Medlin to establish the regular meeting schedule for the Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee for the third Monday of each month at 7 p.m., and establish terms for members as follows:
· For Full Members: Three (3) one-year terms expiring on March 31, 2024; four (4) two-year terms expiring on March 31, 2025; four (4) three-year terms expiring March 31, 2026.
· For Alternates: One (1) Two (2) one-year terms expiring on March 31, 2024; one (1) two-year term expiring on March 31, 2025; one (1) three-year term expiring March 31, 2026.
The motion passed 5-0-0-0 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
Councilwoman Berard suggested that the committee should make a motion to appoint a chair.
TM Comment: The Town has received applications for the following openings (with draft motions to appoint to be completed by the Council).
President Kustell requested to change the order of the interviews and allow the interview and appointment of the Housing Board of Trustees to take place first.
Housing Board of Trustees: (4 vacancies: 1 full member and first, second and third alternates)
· Interview: Lawrence Bacher
Motion: To appoint Lawrence Bacher to the Housing Board of Trustees as a full member, for a term ending January 31, 2025. The motion passed 5-0-0-0 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee: (15 vacancies: 11 full members and 4 alternates)
· Interviews: Lauren Burgess, Tom Fulton, Paul Jones, Jay Katzanek, Eliza Lawson, Franciso Lovera, Jack Madden, Maura McCrann, Sam Obstfeld, John O’Grady, Thomas Ollila, Tiffany Rhodes, Caryl Salisbury (unable to attend), Doug Shattuck, Peter Shinkle (unable to attend), Andrew Watson and Sandra Wyatt
Motion by Councilman Medlin and seconded by Councilwoman Conway to appoint Tiffany Rhodes to the Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee as a full member, for a term ending March 31, 2026. The motion passed 5-0-0-10 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
Motion by Councilwoman Conway and seconded by Councilman Medlin to appoint Maura McCrann to the Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee as a full member, for a term ending March 31, 2026. The motion passed 5-0-0-10 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
Motion by Vice President Humm and seconded by Councilwoman Conway to appoint Francisco Lovera to the Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee as a full member, for a term ending March 31, 2026. The motion passed 5-0-0-10 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
Motion by Councilwoman Conway and seconded by Vice President Humm to appoint Eliza Lawson to the Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee as a full member, for a term ending March 31, 2026. The motion passed 5-0-0-10 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
Motion by Councilman Medlin and seconded by Councilwoman Conway to appoint Lauren Burgess to the Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee as a full member, for a term ending March 31, 2025. The motion passed 5-0-0-10 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
Motion by Councilwoman Conway and seconded by Vice President Humm to appoint Tom Fulton to the Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee as a full member, for a term ending March 31, 2025. The motion passed 5-0-0-10 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
Motion by Councilwoman Berard and seconded by Councilwoman Conway to appoint Paul Jones to the Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee as a full member, for a term ending March 31, 2025. The motion passed 5-0-0-10 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
Motion by Vice President Humm and seconded by Councilwoman Conway to appoint Thomas Ollila to the Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee as a full member, for a term ending March 31, 2025. The motion passed 5-0-0-10 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
Motion by Councilwoman Conway and seconded by Councilwoman Berard to appoint Sandra Wyatt to the Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee as a full member, for a term ending March 31, 2024. The motion passed 5-0-0-10 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
Motion by Councilman Medlin and seconded by Councilwoman Conway to appoint Andrew Watson to the Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee as a full member, for a term ending March 31, 2024. The motion passed 5-0-0-10 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
Motion by Councilwoman Conway and seconded by Vice President Humm to appoint Doug Shattuck to the Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee as a full member, for a term ending March 31, 2024. The motion passed 5-0-0-10 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
Motion by Councilman Medlin and seconded by Councilwoman Conway to appoint Sam Obstfeld to the Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee as an alternate, for a term ending March 31, 2026. The motion passed 5-0-0-10 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
Motion by Vice President Humm and seconded by Councilwoman Berard to appoint Jack Madden to the Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee as an alternate, for a term ending March 31, 2025. The motion passed 5-0-0-10 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
Motion by Councilwoman Conway and seconded by Vice President Humm to appoint Jay Katzanek to the Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee as an alternate, for a term ending March 31, 2024. The motion passed 5-0-0-10 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
Motion by Councilwoman Conway and seconded by Vice President Humm to appoint John O’Grady to the Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee as an alternate, for a term ending March 31, 2024. The motion passed 5-0-0-10 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
President Kustell recessed the meeting at 8:34pm.
President Kustell reconvened the meeting at 8:42pm.
INTRODUCTION: (none)
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
· 2023-4 Renewal of Declaration of Emergency
TM Comment: Renewal is requested for two reasons:
§ To allow for future emergency funding reimbursement opportunities due to the continued Emergency Declaration. RIEMA advises that it is unknown if future stimulus packages would require an active emergency declaration to qualify for fiscal support.
§ Requirement to have the ability to instantaneously enact emergency orders for the health and safety of the Town of Barrington residents.
*
President Kustell opened the public hearing for 2023-4 Renewal of Declaration of Emergency.
President Kustell asked if anyone wished to speak.
Janine Wolf, 5 Atlantic Crossing, questioned why this ordinance is on the agenda again.
President Kustell explained that the Declaration of Emergency is a renewal and has been on the Council’s agenda from the beginning of the pandemic as set forth with the Governor’s Executive Order. He stated that in the event that Governor McKee does not sign the executive order the local ordinance will terminate.
President Kustell closed the public hearing.
Motion by President Kustell and seconded by Councilman Medlin to renew and adopt Ordinance 2023-04 Renewal of Declaration of Emergency, as presented.
The motion passed 5-0-0-0, in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway, and Councilman Medlin, no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.
TM Comment: Last year Capt. Kevin Igoe was able to secure for the Town two electric Ford Lightning pickups – one for Police and one for DPW – utilizing a Connecticut purchasing portal, with pricing based on a State of Connecticut master price agreement. The Town was able to place the orders without waiting for the next Town Council meeting because the Council had previously approved the use of ARPA funding for this specific purpose. As the portal closed within a few days, waiting for a future meeting to approve funding for the purchase would have meant missing out on that opportunity.
I recommend authorizing sufficient funding to facilitate the purchase of an electric or hybrid vehicle for the police fleet, for use in case a similar master price agreement opportunity comes up. Recommend authorizing up to $50,000 from the Police Auto Replacement Capital Reserve for this purpose; there is an unencumbered balance of about $60,000 remaining in that account.
Police Captain Igoe was present for the discussion.
Motion by Vice President Humm and seconded by Councilwoman Conway to authorize up to $50,000 from the Police Auto Replacement Capital Reserve for the purchase of an electric or hybrid vehicle for the police fleet, utilizing pricing available through a master price agreement. The motion passed 5-0-0-0 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
TM Comment: At the November meeting I presented the Town Council with a request to reaffirm the original Town Seal colors (a gold sword on a red shield), replacing what’s been used in recent years despite no record of action by the Council approving different colors (a sword on a yellow shield and blue background).
The Council continued the item to the January meeting to allow for public input on the question of colors. An online survey the Town posted in December received more than 150 responses. There was no clear preference in the responses as to whether the seal stays the same (with the yellow/blue color scheme currently in use) or reverts to the red/gold colors of the original coat of arms developed in 1930s as part of the work of the RI Tercentenary Commission. The survey also asked whether the Town should consider an entirely new design without the coat of arms. The response: 54 percent said they preferred a seal that omitted the coat of arms, while 42 percent said they would want to maintain the coat of arms (regardless of whether it’s a red or yellow shield).
At the January meeting, the Council referred the question of redesigning the Town Seal to the Economic Development Commission (EDC) and the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee (DEI), for a recommendation to the Council to consider at the February meeting. The item was continued to the March meeting, as input from DEI had not yet been received by the Town.
EDC Recommendation: On January 19th, the EDC weighed in on the potential redesign of the Town Seal. The EDC voted unanimously (9-0) in support of the following statement: “The EDC does not feel at this time that the need for a redesign of the town seal is substantially high enough to spend funds or town resources.”
DEI Committee Recommendation: The DEI Committee held a special meeting on January 31, voting unanimously to recommend that the Town pursue a re-design of the Town Seal and “welcomes an opportunity to take part in the re-design effort,” per Vice Chair A. Larry Berren.
If the Council wishes to proceed with a new seal, I recommend handling it through an administrative committee to develop and implement the project. I’ve touched base with the schools, where there’s clear interest in participating in the redesign – including an art teacher who is interested in sitting on a review committee. I would want to involve the DEI committee and the Economic Development Commission as well, since it would involve rebranding.
Discussion ensued regarding the recommendations from the EDC and the DEI Committee. Councilman Medlin questioned the concerns of the EDC in which the EDC unanimously voted that they do not feel at this time that the need for a redesign of the town seal is substantially high enough to spend funds or town resources. Councilwoman Berard stated that she likes the involvement with students but questions the expense and would like to know the cost to replace all of the seals. Town Manager Hervey would like for the community to become involved; it is not a large effort but a worthwhile effort with this project and would like to revisit pursuing a new design of the Town Seal.
Motion by Vice President Humm and seconded by Councilwoman Berard to refer the process of redesigning the Town Seal to the Town Manager, with final approval of a new seal subject to a vote of the Council. The motion passed 5-0-0-0 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
TM Comment: The Town is continuing to work on the questions in the Council motion passed at the January 10th 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 13th, which was active through February 17th. The survey generated a total of 787 responses. (Discussed in greater detail in Attached summary report)]
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. 27th 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 19th 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 insure 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 scheduled one workshop so far (the February 1st workshop)]
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 6th 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 are in the process of finalizing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for professional services to complete a Recreational Fields Condition and Needs Analysis. That RFP should be advertised within the next week.
We are continuing to work on a second RFP, for consultant services to study the feasibility of a recreation center/fieldhouse in Barrington. That should be ready for advertising within the next two weeks.]
5. obtaining more information on potential locations for a recreation center and synthetic turf field. [Comment: this question will be examined in the RFP for a rec center/fieldhouse study, mentioned above]
Next Steps:
· Council to decide whether to schedule a follow-up workshop and when (TBD)
· Issuance of RFPs for the field study and the fieldhouse/rec center feasibility study. Approval by the Council of the bids for each would take place no sooner than the Council’s May meeting, unless there is a special meeting scheduled in mid- to late-April.
President Kustell invited Park & Recreation Chair Mike Seward to comment.
Chair Seward stated that the Park & Recreation Commission fully supports this initiative to increase the number of fields, synthetic fields, maintaining the fields and a future field house. He said that these proposed initiatives have been kicked down the road for over 25 years and applauds the council for providing additional discussions and workshops.
Vice President Humm thanked Mr. Seward for all the years that he has discussed and held workshops on this subject.
Town Manager Hervey summarized the results of the field survey (go to Clerkbase via Barrington website, for agenda 3-6-23 #23 attachment) that began on-line January 13 and data was collected until February 17thwith approximately 787 responses.
Council members discussed the format of another workshop to be held in late March. The discussion centered around that the workshop with additional input from the public, would be best suited with a facilitator. They questioned whether it should be heavy with public comment, or should it be structured with questions and answers, should there be time limits, should it be more interactive or continue as exploratory, have small groups, and if we should bring in experts.
Chair Seward said that he held a workshop on the Haines Park proposals with a concrete plan laid out on the agenda.
Vice President Humm said if a workshop is not held soon, we would be missing valuable time and opportunities to engage with the community.
Councilwoman Berard suggested that questions should be submitted prior to the workshop to the facilitator. Vice President Humm agreed that questions should be submitted earlier. Discussion ensued regarding that the facilitator be a non-council member and discussion continued regarding engineers (facilitator) as advisors to provide the appropriate interaction and discussion for the workshop.
Councilman Medlin suggested that the workshop have a Zoom link. President Kustell said that he is concerned with the lack of decorum and out of state calls but would not mind if it is live streamed. Vice President Humm commented that either zoom or live stream the workshop would work. Town Manager Hervey stated that the workshop is not very conducive with a Zoom set up.
Janine Wolf, 5 Atlantic Crossing asked if the Council has determined a location for the facility. She suggested that the Town hire a project manager. She said that she believes that there has been enough people that have weighed in on this matter. She asked, “What is the measurable goal of participation?”
Motion by Vice President Humm and seconded by Councilman Medlin to schedule a follow up workshop in late March/April that is a facilitated public workshop with a moderator.
Town Manager stated that the workshop would need funding and suggested that the Council could use the funding from the Town Council Contingency fund. He stated that it is not on the agenda to take this action and suggested that it be on the next Town Council agenda. The motion passed 5-0-0-0 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
TM Comment: (Continued from the February meeting.) The Council held a goal-setting retreat facilitated by Emily Morash. Other past retreats were held at the Interlocal Trust. Does the Council wish to schedule another retreat for 2023?
President Kustell stated that we began this discussion at the February meeting with mixed views. Discussion ensued that there are members that are open to holding a retreat, but it may not be necessary.
Councilwoman Conway stated that we held a goal setting retreat during Covid with a zoom set up but no one from the public attended.
Councilman Medlin stated that he does not feel that a goal setting retreat is necessary.
Councilwoman Berard said that she was feeling the same as Councilman Medlin until she heard from past council that some good does come out of holding a goal setting retreat. She would like to see larger goals and not isolated, smaller goals that we have been working on each month.
Councilwoman Conway said that she likes how we learn from one another and learn how each of us thinks. She likes that we could have larger goals and working together.
Discussion ensued with the timing of the retreat. The consensus of the Council is if scheduled in the spring to hold the retreat prior to the beginning of June.
Motion by President Kustell and seconded by Councilwoman Conway to direct the Town Manager and Town Administration to facilitate a goal setting retreat at a mutual time with the provision that a professional facilitator be engaged for that purpose.
Discussion ensued that a discussion for funding be placed on the next council agenda.
The motion passed 5-0-0-0 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
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. Please also see attachments under Agenda Item #12 – Annual Reports from Boards and Commissions.
President Kustell stated that, Update on Liaison Reports is a standing agenda item and asked if a council member wished to comment.
Councilwoman Conway stated that she is the Liaison for the School Committee She explained that there was a vote to resubmit Stage One for construction which leaves the door open for the schools to plan and propose a construction project. The schools are in the process of hiring a project manager to run the process. She said that on Thursday, March 2nd Mario Correia CCO of RIDE was present during the School Committee meeting and gave an update on the process of the proposal. He said that there are over 20 other school committees, including Bristol, Warren, Johnston, South Kingstown, North Kingstown looking to build new schools. There is funding available, but it does show that people are making a move because of the financial opportunity.
Councilwoman Conway said as Town Council we make sure that we play a role in which the schools can get in front of the Town by the existing State’s deadline of September 15th. She said that there is a chance that the bills currently in the RI General Assembly could extend the deadline prior to the start of construction that currently stands at December 30, 2023 and that could be moved to June 2024. We cannot rely on the extension and therefore we need to have a motion at the FTM (2023) to allow for the Town to bond for the construction because we would likely exceed the 4% cap (as we did for the BMS project). Then the General Assembly would need to approve a special election in September where the Town has a chance to approve the bond for construction by the September 15th deadline. She said that it is likely that the Town Council will need to take some action.
Councilwoman Berard, Liaison to the Planning Board said that the Planning Board meeting that is scheduled for March 7th will be looking at the feasibility study of the Carmelite Monastery. She said that she believes that they will make a recommendation or look for a special meeting for public input.
President Kustell stated that the budget process is well underway and encourages all to attend the Committee on Appropriations meetings as they discuss the school and municipal budgets.
President Kustell commented that the Bay Spring Community Center held a presentation with Facilitator Kevin Alverson regarding the backyard with proposals for open space, green space, rainwater usage, playground and additional new ideas. President Kustell suggested to place the plans up on the website.
President Kustell mentioned that Resilience and Energy have been working on Electricity Aggregation to lower our carbon footprint and information is coming to residents.
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.
Mary Grenier, Watson Avenue, questioned why public comment is not on all the boards and commissions agendas. She said that she would like that an opportunity is given for public comment and suggested standard procedures at every board meeting.
Assistant Town Solicitor Amy Goins said that in the absence of explicit direction from the Council (Council oversees all boards and commissions) it is up to each chair to set the agendas for the meeting. She said that if there is a public hearing, public comment must be taken. She said that under the Open Meetings Act, public comment is optional and not required. Assistant Solicitor Goins stated that if the Council wants to direct that all boards and commissions hold a public comment as a standing agenda item, they can do so or they can leave it as it is now, up to the discretion of the chair of the board.
· Spencer Trust meeting at 6:30pm
· Discuss and Act: Recreation Fields and Facilities
· Proclamation for Arbor Day (April 28, 2023)
· Jamie Rhodes – Good Energy
· Town Council Contingency Funds
· 42-46-5 (a) (2) Collective Bargaining:
International Brotherhood of Police Officers Local 351; International Association of Fire Fighters, AFL-CIO, Local 1774;
· 42-46-5 (a) (5) Acquisition and Disposition of Property
· 42-46-5 (a) (1) Personnel: Town Manager Phil Hervey
· Discuss Executive Session minutes from February 6, 2023, for placement on the April 3, 2023, Town Council meeting agenda.
Motion by President Carl Kustell and seconded by Councilwoman Conway to move into Executive Session at 10:15PM in accordance with RIGL: 42-46-5 (a) (2) Collective Bargaining: International Brotherhood of Police Officers Local 351; International Association of Fire Fighters, AFL-CIO, Local 1774; 42-46-5 (a) (5) Acquisition and Disposition of Property, 42-46-5 (a) (1) Personnel: Town Manager Phil Hervey and Discuss Executive Session minutes from February 6, 2023, for placement on the April 3, 2023 Town Council meeting agenda. A letter informing Mr. Hervey was hand delivered and sent via email to him regarding this meeting.
The motion passed 5-0-0-0 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
Motion by President Kustell and seconded by Vice President Humm to reconvene into open session at 11:30 P.M. No votes were taken. The minutes of the Executive Session are to be sealed.
The motion passed 5-0-0-0 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
Motion by Councilwoman Berard and seconded by President Kustell to adjourn the Open Session at 11:31 PM. The motion passed 5-0-0-0 in favor, President Kustell, Vice President Humm, Councilwoman Berard, Councilwoman Conway and Councilman Medlin; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
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Meredith J. DeSisto, CMC, Barrington Town Clerk