Housing Commission Minutes of October 16, 2007
Members Present: BJ Scheff, Rayna Caplan, Renel Fredriksen, Pam Gallup
Call to Order: 7:40 AM
Minutes: The Board read and approved minutes for the October 9 meeting, with minor modifications.
Business:
Sunnyside Budget
Renel reported that George had presented our “Reserve Fund Transfer Request” in the amount of $28,127 to the Finance Committee on October 9, and that the transfer was approved. She also conveyed that Tim Higgins reported that the funds are now available. The Commission voted to approve payment of the final invoice from Pope Industries for the modular units at Sunnyside.
Housing Commission Budget
The Revolving fund balance is currently a little over $15,000 plus $28,000 for the reserve fund transfer. After the payment to Pope, our balance will be just over $23,000.
Sunnyside Maintenance
Pam and Rayna reported on certain problems that arose at 26 Sunnyside, including problems with the downstairs heat, stove and refrigerator. Andy and Bob Norton are working on getting these items repaired.
In addition, Rayna met with Andy on Monday morning to get copies of all needed keys, so that the tenant at 26 Sunnyside can gain access to her utility closet, and Renel can show the property at 30B Sunnyside.
BJ reported that she had met with Chris Bibbo, who recommended using Vanaria as a contractor for the lawn maintenance at Sunnyside. This is the same contractor that the Town uses for much of its contracted landscaping needs. Vanaria has submitted a proposal for mowing and annual clean-up. The Commission voted to approve the proposal with one modification, which was to omit the fall clean-up at Sunnyside for 2007. BJ will also ask them how often they typically mow, as we will be charged per mowing.
The DPW will plow the properties at Sunnyside Lane as part of their overall town plowing job, at no additional cost to the Commission. Rayna will ask Andy to submit a quote for shoveling the long walk to 30B and the handicap ramp after snowfalls.
The Commission agreed to spend $30 for fertilizing the grass at Sunnyside. Rayna volunteered to donate her time to perform the work involved. The Commission gratefully accepted her offer.
Sunnyside Landscaping
The Commission approved spending of up to $4,400 for landscaping. Rayna will move ahead on this.
Town Property Survey
A request was made to get a copy of the survey that Earl reported on in the previous meeting, assessing needed repairs and upgrades to town properties. Someone will have to follow up with Earl upon his return from vacation.
Affordable Housing Trust
Pam presented a draft of a letter to the AHT objecting to a perceived rush to spend the $900,000 held in trust. The Commission approved sending the letter, with some modifications.
Consolidated Housing Plan
BJ gave us copies to updates she has made to the Housing Plan for our review. We are to review the proposed changes for discussion at our next meeting.
Community Preservation Committee
Renel presented a draft proposal for CPC funds to be spent on updating the Consolidated Housing Plan. This was tabled for the next meeting. The next meeting will focus on the October 30 CPC presentation.
Adjournment: Housing Commission adjourned at 9:05 AM.
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