BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING
MINUTES
March 25, 2008

Present: Philip J. Miller, First Selectman
Norman M. Needleman, Selectman
Vincent A. Pacileo III, Selectman

Philip Miller called the meeting to order at 8:05 am.

Also present: Treasurer Robert Dixon

2008-2009 Budget Review and Potential Revisions:

Philip Miller reported that he is very pleased with the work done on the Town Hall to date. He proposed a budget reduction to the Capital and Sinking Fund Budget from proposed Town Hall improvements. Said reduction would correspond with the appointment of a Building Committee to provide a thorough review of necessary improvements and renovations to the Town Hall. The work thus far demonstrated the need for additional attention, we have improved ADA requirements but more needs to be done. We need to look at energy efficient windows, additional areas of safety and air quality among others. Mr. Miller further stated his desire that the budget increase to General Government be below 4%.

Norman Needleman stated that it costs more than 4% to maintain roads, etc. The cost of asphalt has tripled. We have many years without attention to maintenance.

Robert Dixon asked the Board to keep in mind that the revenue projections for next year are down as a result of a reduction of interest earnings on our sweep account and less property transfers reducing the Town Clerk fees and conveyance tax.

Vincent Pacileo inquired about the Essex Elementary School budget. There was discussion regarding the collective bargaining and the cost of the contracts. Mr. Pacileo stated that we have to manage our funds like one would do for a household in light of rising costs and reduced revenues. We need to reduce our expenses accordingly.

Changes to the Board of Selectmen proposed budget were as follows:

Department                                           Change

Town Clerk-Document Fees-corresponds to reduced revenue (10,000)

Park and Recreation Commission-Automobile Expense-budget recommendation did not provide for mileage reimbursement for staff members 2,500

Planning Commission-eliminate Traffic Study-to be paid for from current budget year funds (15,000)

Planning Commission-additional Planning Service Funds 4,000

Highway Department-reduction to Sidewalk Maintenance and Repair--remains at funding level of current year (5,000)

Capital and Sinking Funds-reduction to Sidewalk Construction--remains at funding level of current year (5,000)

Capital and Sinking funds-reduction to Town Hall Improvements (96,500)
Net Reduction: (125,000)

Motion was made by Philip Miller to recommend to the Board of Finance a revised Selectmen budget in the amount of $6,403,734 an increase of $241,470 over last year's budget or 3.92%. Vincent Pacileo seconded the motion and it was unanimously approved. Motion carried.

Motion was made by Vincent Pacileo to adjourn at8:45 am. Norman Needleman seconded the motion and it was unanimously approved. Motion carried.

Respectfully submitted,

Cindy Varricchio
Board Clerk