By Robin Reid

The Charlotte Selectboard meeting of Dec. 8 began with another work session on the Wage Classification Program. Selectman Ellie Russell went over implementation policy edits as the Selectboard continued towards final policy language.

Lister Betsi Oliver questioned an adjustment lowering Chief Lister Betsy Tegatz to a lower grade on the grid followed by a discussion about fairness and internal equity as the goal of implementing this program. Selectman Charles Russell said that the challenge is to grade jobs, not people. The Listers said they felt treated unfairly and that perhaps the “Palmer” criteria used should be reviewed. The Selectboard agreed to meet with the Listers at a special meeting on Thursday.

Town Clerk Mary Mead pointed to inconsistencies in the median wages used to determine the salaries on this pay grid. She said the numbers are inconsistent and she feels distrustful about the mathematics used in the process. The subject was revisited during board updates and Selectmen agreed that complaints and concerns must be considered and resolved.

After a short break, the regular meeting commenced at 7pm with the appointment of Maurice (Moe) Harvey to the Safety Committee for a term ending April 2017.

Budget discussions

Town Clerk/Treasurer Mead explained that Thompson’s Point revenues are projected at $828,000 based on an estimated $0.04 increase in the tax rate. Current Use hold harmless payment comes from the state and is estimated at $77,252.

Mead suggested a miscellaneous revenue line that would include DMV and Fish and Wildlife. These agencies offer internet processing that has reduced the number of licenses and registrations sold in town. Recording fees are down as the housing market isn’t rebounding. It was noted that software expenses could be included in the Treasurer’s budget. Mead indicated that she has served as Delinquent Tax Collector for seven years, not 21.

Librarian Margaret Woodruff and Trustee Vince Crockenberg brought news of a 4.9 percent decrease in the library budget. There are many fixed costs and some savings in acquisitions and computer support. The total proposed budget (minus salaries) is $44,425.

Carl Herzog represented the Senior Center. The proposed budget is flat aside from salary changes based on a 28-hour work week for 53 weeks for Mary Recchia. The Volunteer Coordinator’s salary is based on 50 weeks at 15 hours per week. Herzog said some windows need to be replaced and it’s recommended to leave some money in maintenance. Supplies for the kitchen and other supplies are paid for by donations for lunches. Facility rental income has decreased a little but it’s hard to predict.

Recreation Commission Chair Bill Fraser-Harris said the key to the Recreation Budget is to maintain town-owned facilities. The beach has a bathhouse and tennis courts that will have ongoing maintenance costs, and a reserve fund to address these costs should be considered. Fraser-Harris said many generous donations on behalf of recreation have been made this year.

Bonnie Christie and Carrie Spear of the fledgling Safety Committee were present to discuss the $70,000 that was put towards community safety at last year’s Town Meeting. So far, $39,888 has been spent, largely on the State Police service contract. The Safety Committee has no budget but will advise the Selectboard on funding priorities for safety in the town.

Other business

The Selectboard entertained a discussion with Constable Josh Flore about a Second Constable. Flore said it would be nice to have help at some events but law enforcement responsibilities fall more to the State Police. Selectman Krasnow suggested this be on a future agenda but other Selectmen did not feel that the appointment of a Second Constable was necessary at this time.

The Selectboard authorized the Chair to sign a Quit Claim Deed of right, title, and interest in “lease” or “school land” to Patricia Day Bidinger for the purpose of conserving the parcel on the southwest corner of Bean and Hinesburg Roads.

Selectman Krasnow presented the State Police report for the month of October.

Selectman Ellie Russell shared a job description for a full-time Rescue Service Director for CVFRS. She said there are concerns that the authority of the CVFRS Board is being bypassed in the hiring process. The bylaws call for full involvement of the board and their next meeting is Dec. 16.

The next regular Selectboard meeting is Dec. 15 at 6:30pm.