TOWN MEETING MINUTES

September 5, 2001

7:30 P.M.

Trappe Town Council Hall

The regular Town meeting was opened by President Don English and called to order at 7:30 p.m. Vice President Cheryl Lewis and Commissioners Edgar Harrison, Danny Adams and Robert Niemeyer were present. Everyone stood to recite the Pledge of Allegiance. The August minutes were presented anaccepted as presented. The August Financial Statement was read and accepted as presented.

OLD BUSINESS:

Charter Communications:

Two members of Charter Communications were present to answer and discuss any questions anyone had from the Town. Quite a lengthy discussion of questions was brought before the two representatives. They answered questions and said they were trying to upgrade and update their services to our area. Hopefully there would be more communication available to their customers here very soon.

NEW BUSINESS:

(In order to facilitate Ms. Chatham to be able to leave this was moved up in the agenda.)

Ms. Melissa A. Chatham gave a presentation on TMDL limits. Brief discussion on the clean water permit of the Choptank Watershed.

OLD BUSINESS:

Village Overlay Zone.

President English said that Attorney Booth was reviewing for presentation for next meeting.

Holly Tree Town Office

Need to remove Holly Tree beside Town Office per Mr. Cannon's recommendation.

Com. Lewis made motion to find someone to remove tree and look into replacement. Seconded by Com. Harrison.

Vote: Lewis - Y English - Y Harrison - Y Niemeyer - Y Adams - Y

ROBERTS MANHOLE:

Mr. Croswell reviewed and made a recommendation that the Town modify and drop the manhole down so that a car will not hit it. The recommendation was accepted by Mr. Roberts. Mr. Croswell said the approximate cost would be between $1200.00 and $1500.00.

Motion made by Com. Niemeyer to go ahead and lower manhole. Seconded by Com. Danny Adams.

Vote: Lewis - Y English - Y Harrison - Y Niemeyer - Y Adams - Y

Chesapeake Sound:

President English said that the quote from Chesapeake Sound for 8 microphones, dish stand floor stands and amplifier stand would be approximately $ 2,091.00. Com. Lewis suggested that we get a second bid. Pres. English tabled until we could get other bids.

NEW BUSINESS:

SNOW REMOVAL:

Com. Harrison suggested set up workshop to get vendors for job services needed in town. Need to check prices on these services. Workshop set up for Thursday September 13^th at 7:00 p.m.

HALLOWEEN DATE:

Com. Harrison made motion to celebrate Trick or Treating on October 31 from 6 to 8 P.M. Seconded by Com. Niemeyer.

Vote: Lewis - Y English - Y Harrison - Y Niemeyer - Y Adams - Y

NACE'S DAY PARADE:

October 13, 2001 at l:00 P.M. Commissioners will ride in the parade.

PUMPING STATION CLEANING:

Mr. Croswell presented a memo for cleaning request. He suggested having the pumping station cleaned by Mansfield & Sons, Inc. instead of having it done manually. If we use Mansfield, have it done 4 times a year instead of manually 6 times a year. The cost will be approximately the same.

Motion made by Com. Harrison to authorize President to have Mansfield do it one time to see how it works and the cost. Seconded by Com. Danny Adams.

President English any discussion on issue: None.

Vote: Lewis - Y English - Y Harrison -Y Niemeyer - Y Adams - Y

ADOPT RESOLUTION 6-2001

Attorney Booth said we need resident agent for Town of Trappe. Most instances it is the Town Attorney. This just gives agent power to get papers together and take care of matters if someone tries to sue the Town.

(A RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN OF TRAPPE AUTHORIZING THE DESIGNATION OF BRYNJA M. BOOTH, ESQUIRE AS THE RESIDENT AGENT TO ACCEPT SERVICES OF PROCESS FOR THE TOWN OF TRAPPE.)

Motion made by Com. Harrison to accept Resolution 6-2001. Seconded Com. Niemeyer.

Vote: Lewis - Y English - Y Harrison - Y Niemeyer - Y Adams - Y

SLUDGE REMOVAL CHANGE ORDER:

Pres. English presented Change Order for sludge removal will affect end price.

Com. Harrison made a motion to authorize change order. Seconded by Com. Niemeyer.

Vote: Lewis - Y English - Y Harrison - Y Niemeyer - Y Adams - Y

Commissioner Harrison has been placed on Comprehensive Plan Review for the County, also Jimmy Randall and Don Haring.

President English asked for motion to go to closed session to discuss personal issues.

Motion made by Com. Harrison to go to closed session. Seconded Com. Niemeyer.

Vote: Lewis - Y English - Y Harrison - Y Niemeyer -Y Adams - Y

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Meeting was adjourned to Closed Session at 9:15 p.m. - Discussion on Personnel Issues.

___________________

Recorded: Joedy Cecil

Town Clerk

___________________

Approved: Don English

Chairperson

TOWN MEETING MINUTES

August 1, 2001

7:30 P.M.

Trappe Town Council Hall

The regular Town meeting was opened by President Don English and called to order at 7:30 p.m. Vice President Cheryl Lewis and Commissioners Edgar Harrison, Danny Adams and Robert Niemeyer were present. Everyone stood to recite the Pledge of Allegiance. The July minutes were presented and accepted as presented. The July Financial Statement was read and accepted as presented.

OLD BUSINESS:

Resignation of Commissioner Darling and new member Mr. Danny Adams. Mrs.

Mary Ann Shortall, Clerk of Circuit Court will swear Mr. Danny Adams in to fill Com. Darling seat. President English welcomed Mr. Adams to Commission. Organizational changes consisted of the following changes: Com. Niemeyer will now head up the Police matters. Com. Adams will now head up the Parks and Rec Committee.

VILLAGE OVERLAY ZONE:

Review of The Village Overlay Zone. Lengthy discussion by Commissioners on set back issues for each zoning area need to be consistent with Zoning Ordinance and Comprehensive Plan. Attorney Booth said we need to make it clear to applicant what they will need to submit to be considered for Village Overlay. We need to have a Public Hearing on the idea, once you get the comment put that into Ordinance form and have that introduced into the Ordinance. Mr. Adams said set backs are a lot of what The Village Overlay is all about, helping property owners to improve their property. Mr. Adams stated by having The Village Overlay it would help the Town to have a say in how undeveloped properties would be developed.

Attorney Booth said The Village Overlay is very good it just needs some minor adjustments in setbacks.

The date set for Public Hearing: Tuesday, August 21, 2001 at 7:00 p.m. We will try to have someone from Redman Johnston at the meeting.

Ordinance 4-2001

President English introduced an Ordinance of the Town of Trappe reaffirming, clarifying and expanding the current moratorium on new sewer connections or hookups other than the lots previously approved for connections by the Maryland Department of the Environment, and imposing a moratorium on the acceptance of all subdivision (except minor subdivision) applications until the Planning Commission completes its review and recommendations for changes to the Comprehensive Plan and the Subdivision Regulations.

Page 1

Commissioner Harrison made a motion to adopt Ordinance 4-2001 establishing and extending the Moratorium on the acceptance of subdivision applications. Seconded by Com. Niemeyer.

VOTE: Lewis – Y English – Y Harrison – Y Niemeyer – Y Adams – Y

CARPETING & PAINTING FOR TOWN OFFICE:

Com. Lewis said that Easton Hardware had the lowest bid and recommended that we go with them. Would like to upgrade to little better carpet she asked for commercial upgrade. Discussed and agreed upon to allow $2,500.00 for carpet. PAINTING: Meeting room ceiling needs two coats, outside trim, paint and materials: estimate was $1,200.00. Com. Lewis suggested we set aside $4,000.00 to do both projects.

Com. Harrison made a motion set aside $4,000.00 and we authorize the President to approve committee members’ recommendation. Seconded Com. Niemeyer.

VOTE: Lewis – Y English – Y Harrison – Y Niemeyer –Y Adams – Y

METER BILLING:

Mr. Croswell stated that 1/3 of the accounts are paying more and 2/3 of accounts are paying less. Overall revenue for month of July typical of what it has been in the past.

NEW BUSINESS:

Mr. Robert Howell applied for W/S hookup for Lot #13 Murray’s Lane. Com. Harrison made a Motion to Approve W/S hookup for Murray’s Lane, Seconded by Com. Lewis.

VOTE: Lewis – Y English – Y Harrison – Y Niemeyer – Y Adams - Y

Mr. Lewis Outten also requested W/S hookup for Lot #42 - 3772 Seymour Drive.

Com. Niemeyer made motion approve Mr. Outten W/S hookup request. Seconded by Com. Harrison.

VOTE: Lewis – Y English – Y Harrison – Y Niemeyer – Y Adams – Y

Mr. Jim Miller LaTrappe Heights. Would like to know if landlords are responsible for rental property. Keeping yards cut and who is responsible for junk cars in yards. Very concerned over rental properties in his neighborhood. President English advised him to just call Zoning Administrator it will be handled by the Administrator.

REPORT PARK FENCE: The Town’s insurance LGIT yearly evaluation – suggested changes for Main Street Park, and Harrison Circle Park concerning split rail fence needing to be replaced in some areas. Installing maybe chain link fence around rest of playground. Requested price for chain link where wooden fence was. They were all minor issues and they have been taken care of. Page 2

MUNICIPAL DEPUTIES PROGRAM REPORT.

Report Cost of Deputies, etc. Cost has gone up little. We have contract price for overtime and special events.

Motion made by Com. Harrison to continue with Sheriff’s Department Deputies Program, renew for another year. Seconded by Com. Lewis.

VOTE: Lewis – Y English – Y Harrison – Y Niemeyer – Y Adams – Y

NEW BUSINESS:

Mrs. Nadine Culver concerned over lights and traffic at La Trappe Heights and Barber Road. Estimated 30,000 cars go thru Trappe in a day. Lights are not set up to handle traffic of Town just highway. Pres. English suggested Town have State Highway Administration Rep. to come and talk to residents at Town meeting. Com. Harrison seconded suggestion.

Mr. Abe Sisco: Property owned by Wilbert and Russell Roberts on Hennissee Lane has manhole in center of property. Concerned as to what can be done with this by Town. With much discussion Town will look into this matter and locate Deed of Easement for manhole on property.

Mr. Jerry Adams asked Commissioners and everyone interested to come to Planning and Zoning Meeting on August 15, 2001 at 7:30 p.m., Rep. for Michael Lyons would be there to talk about new development across from School.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

The next regular meeting of the board will be held on September 5, 2001 at 7:30 p.m. Trappe Town Hall.

Meeting was adjourned to Closed Session at 8:45 p.m. - Discussion on Personnel Issues.

Motion made by President English to adjourn to Executive Session. Seconded by Com. Niemeyer. Meeting adjourned at 8:42 p.m.

Vote: Lewis –Y English-Y Harrison – Y Niemeyer – Y Adams - Y

___________________
Recorded: Joedy Cecil
Town Clerk
___________________
Approved: Don English

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TOWN MEETING MINUTES

July 5, 2001

7:30 P.M.

The regular town meeting was opened by President Don English and called to order at 7:30 p.m.; Vice President Cheryl Lewis and Commissioners Edgar Harrison, Richard Darling and Mr. Robert Niemeyer were present. Everyone stood to recite the Pledge of Allegiance. The June minutes were presented and accepted as presented. The June Financial Statement was read and accepted as presented.

OLD BUSINESS:

ORDINANCE 3-2001 – ESTABLISH MUNICIPAL WATER & SEWER RATES BEGINNING JULY 1, 2001.

Mr. Harrison made motion to adopt Ordinance 3-2001.

Seconded by Com. Niemeyer.

Vote: Lewis: Y English – Y Harrison – Y Darling – Y Niemeyer – Y

DISCUSSION OF JUNE WATER BILLS – COM. LEWIS:

Com. Lewis stated that the Town will be switching over to metered system beginning July 1, 2001. We will drop the month of June bill due to always being a month behind. Will start new meter readings end of June to go out first of August for July readings. Will have 30 days to pay bills in. After some discussion Attorney Booth said we will need only oral recommendation for auditor. Com. Niemeyer made motion to bill as discussed. (Billing cycle remain same, except not bill month of June we will skip month of June) Seconded by Com. Lewis.

Vote: Lewis – Y English – Y Harrison – Y Darling – Y Niemeyer – Y

RADAR ENFORCEMENT:

President English talked with Chief Deputy Ed Blessing of Sheriff’s Dept. and followed up with a letter. President English read letter written to Sheriff’s Department. Requesting Radar enforcement on Maple Avenue East and West sides also entire Main Street between 4:00 and 7:00 p.m. "No thru truck " signs in town. Chief Deputy Ed Blessing agreed to look into this for us. Questions.

SET INTERVIEW DATE : APPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT DEPUTY: Date set for Monday July 9^th at 7:00 p.m.

CARNIVAL DISCUSSION:

Parking will be done in ball field and back up in Church lot. Will need to close street for Parade on Wednesday night. President English gave oral permission.

GRASS CUTTING:

Com. Niemeyer asked where we ended up with grass cutting. President English said Mr. Kilmon, the low bidder, is cutting every week.

NEW BUSINESS:

Extend modify building Moratorium. Attorney Booth said at Commissioners request she had drafted (2) different Ordinances both very similar. 1^st Ordinance moratorium on only major subdivisions. 2^nd Ordinance for all subdivisions. Back in 1996 a Moratorium was imposed by MDE with the exception of 50 lots already approved subdivisions. As the new Wastewater Treatment Plant comes on line in 2002, this moratorium will expire. The Town needs to update subdivision regulations and review allocated capacity. We are going to have influx of growth and need to be up to date on subdivisions regulations. The Attorney stated that we have a good case for a moratorium. Attorney Booth read her drafts.

President English read recommendation from The Planning Commissioner recommending a Moratorium on major subdivision applications. The Planning Commission is reviewing the Comprehensive Plan and subdivision regulations. It will take approximately 12 months or longer in order to provide for adequate review and public input. The Planning Commission has recommend that applications for major subdivisions (more than 2 lots) should not be considered until July 1^st, 2002 or until completion of review which ever date comes later.

Commissioner Harrison discussed how much the impact allowing minor subdivisions significantly weakens case for moratorium. Comm. Harrison said in the existing zoning Ordinance there are subdivisions and minor subdivisions only. There is no reference to major subdivisions at all. Suggest that the Ordinance terminology conform. Attorney Booth said she would amend before next meeting. A moratorium will give us enough time to see if the plant is performing as designed. Commissioners Niemeyer and Lewis agreed. Moratorium no way precludes negotiations with developers up to time that the moratorium expires.

.

President English asked which part do we want for Ordinance 1st or 2^nd draft.

Comm. Harrison makes motion to amend Ordinance 4-2001 to say all subdivisions except minor subdivisions. Seconded by Comm. Lewis.

Vote: Lewis – Y English - Y Harrison – Y Darling – Y Niemeyer – Y

Commissioner Harrison Introduce Ordinance 4-2001 a moratorium is hereby imposed on the acceptance, review, consideration and approval of all applications for major subdivision until the Planning commission has completed its review and recommendations with respect to changes to the Comprehensive Plan and Subdivision Regulations. Second Comm. Darling

Vote: Lewis – Y English – Y Harrison –Y Darling – Y Niemeyer – Y

Set Public Hearing for 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 1, 2001. Ordinance 4-2001

Mr. Tim Kagan addressed Council on behalf of Mr. Michael Lyons. Would like to find out Town’s position on growth. President English projected completion of plant to be on time. Discussion on Annexation of Lyons property.

TAX BILLS estimated to go out on July 10^th.

VILLAGE OVERLAY ZONE:

Village Overlay Zone final recommendation was presented to the Town Council..

Pres. English asked Attorney Booth and Council to review Village Overlay Zone pamphlet before next meeting. Will set up public hearings.

RESIGNATION OF COMMISSIONER DARLING:

President English read Com. Darling letter of resignation to become in effect as of July 18, 2001. He is moving to Delaware due to his wife’s illness. Pres. English expressed regrets of Council. Council approved. President English moved that in accord with the Resolution 3-94 (If vacancy occurs within 90 days of election Council Members will fill the vacancy with the candidate receiving next highest number of votes.) Candidate Mr. Danny Adams will be appointed. Voice vote of Council unanimously approved.

ADDITIONAL COST WWTP

Pres. English stated that there will be additional cost of WWTP of $66,814.00 due to needing more fill dirt. The Procurement Policy requires the approval of the Council. Commission Harrison made motion to approve extra fill dirt for WWTP upgrade.

Seconded by Com. Lewis.

Vote: Lewis – Y English – Y Harrison – Y Darling – Y Niemeyer – Y

UPDATES:

Well Improvements Progress Meeting Friday, July 6, 10:00 A.M.

WWTP Progress Meeting at l:00, Friday, July 6^th.

Motion Pres. English to adjourn to Executive Session at 8:45 meeting adjourned.

Seconded by Comm. Niemeyer

Vote:

Lewis – Y English – Y Harrison – Y Darling – Y Niemeyer – Y

Minutes respectfully submitted:

Joedy Cecil
Town Clerk

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TOWN MEETING MINUTES

June 6, 2001

7:30 P.M.

The regular town meeting was opened by President Don English and called to order at 7:30 p.m.; Vice President Cheryl Lewis and Commissioners Edgar Harrison, Richard Darling and Mr. Robert Niemeyer were present. Everyone stood to recite the Pledge of Allegiance. The May minutes were presented and accepted as presented. The May Financial Statement was read and accepted as presented.

OLD BUSINESS:

SLUDGE REMOVAL

Mr. English has updated Council on Sludge Removal project. Meeting was held with Hopkins Inc. on Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrade. The Council agreed to remove sludge from the first lagoon. Mr. Croswell met with MDE had the sludge tested; he has the permit package and agreed to complete it. Mr. Diefenderfer has consented to the use of his property and agreed to hauling and spreading as a sub contractor for Hopkins Construction. Hopkins Construction has given us a price loading and unloading as a change order eliminating the need for bids. Commissioner Harrison asked about Bond. Mr. Diefenderfer has included it in his price. The Council approved Superintendent Croswell and Hopkins drawing up a change order for this project. As of this date we have no test results from the sludge sample.

POLICE RADAR ENFORCEMENT

President English talked with Commissioner Darling about more radar enforcement and patrol. Commissioner Darling has meeting with Sheriff Duncan on Thursday June 7^th. Will get back to us.

NEW BUSINESS:

Mrs. Baker was concerned that on Maple Avenue trucks are not paying attention to weight or speed signs. President English said some of the truck traffic is due to Town Construction. The contractor has been instructed to use Maple Avenue. Mrs. Baker complained of vibration, rumbling and plaster falling from walls in homes from heavy traffic. President English advised that the Town has contacted contractor and speeding has stopped. Unfortunately we cannot do anything about contractors’ trucks using this route. He suggested that if speeding is observed to call Sheriffs office with complaints, they will handle this.

ORDINANCE 3-2001 Water Sewer Rates:

Ordinance 3-2001 - Ordinance Town of Trappe establishing water and sewer rates beginning July 1, 2001. President English read Article 7 section 713. Mr. Croswell pointed out that no rate has been set for out of town sewer service to include the two Schwaninger properties, Shore Stop, White Marsh School, and the Wise house on Barber Road. Attorney Booth suggested introducing the Ordinance tonight and amending as needed. Further discussion was held on sewer bill availability charge for properties with access but no lateral connections installed. Mr. Croswell objected, as he owns five pieces of property where his house is. Com. Lewis agreed this was a legitimate complaint. Attorney Booth suggested applying to each buildable lot where basic water and sewer availability existed. Com. Harrison observed that there were too many variability’s to address the issue at this meeting as the budget has already been set up. The Town can look into this issue in the future. Suggested we amend and pass Ordinance (3-2001) tonight to include out of town sewer fee increased over in town rate by same percentage water service is increased and in six months time review these rates and consider implementing a fee for undeveloped lots. Com. Darling agreed and definitely thinks we should consider raising tap in fee to $2,500.00.

Com. Niemeyer agrees we should raise tap in fees. Pres. English agrees that before change fees need to be reviewed in six months. Com. Harrison made a motion to Amend 3-2001 Ordinance to include an out of Town monthly sewer usage fee set at a rate in excess of the in town rate the same percent that the out of town water rate exceeds the in town water rate. Seconded Com. Lewis.

Vote:

Lewis - Y English – Y Harrison – Y Darling – Y Niemeyer – Y

Com. Harrison make a motion introduce 3-2001 as amended. Attorney Booth stated that the water and sewage usage rates would be 1.3 times the in town rate.

Mr. Croswell said we need a workshop, you have added same amount to out of town basic service to cover cost of reading meters. Added same amount to in town and out of town.

Com. Harrison repeated motion to introduce Ordinance 3-2001 as amended. Seconded Com. Darling.

Vote:

Lewis – Y English – Y Harrison – Y Darling – Y Niemeyer – Y

Public Hearing on Ordinance July 5^th at 7:15 next meeting.

VACANCY PLANNING COMMISSION:

Mr. Dallam has elected not to stay on the planning commission because of other commitments. Normally the Town advertises for these positions unless interested parties have come forward. President English said he would like to place Mr. Quidas name nomination for this position. Com. Darling so moved No objections. President English appointed Mr. Robert Quidas to a term on the Trappe Planning Commission and he was sworn in.

President English said Com. Chairman Adams now has a full Commission again.

APPEALS BOARD

Com. Paul Moore wants to resign from the BOCA appeals board because of a conflict of interest. As the Town policy requires members of the Appeals Board to be members of the BOCA board Mr. Moore will be unable to serve on the appeals board unless the town changes its policy. President English accepted Mr. Moore’s resignation and moved Alternate John Tritapoe up to regular appeals board member. Also Com. Chip Wilson term up, would like to be reappointed. No objections Reappointed.

RESOLUTION GRANT DISBURSEMENT 4-2001 –

President of Council be able to sign documents related to grants and loans for WWTP upgrade. USDA

Com. Harrison makes motion to adopt Resolution 4-2001 Seconded Com. Niemeyer

Vote:

Lewis - Y Harrison – Y English – Y Darling – Y Niemeyer - Y

Not on Agenda - Friends Homerun Baker Ball field organization - Carnival -

Com. Lewis said need to raise donations finish ball field. Old fashioned carnival - Fun Day. Would like to have other organizations to join in, like Churches, Lions Club etc. Dates July 25, 26, 27 and 28. Need sanction of Town Council to have this. Will also be having a parade on Wednesday. Make a motion to allow them to have this. Com. Harrison motion to approve permit for Carnival and parade on dates requested. Seconded by Com. Darling.

Vote:

Lewis – Y English – Y Harrison – Y Darling – Y Niemeyer – Y

Mr. Croswell reported poor drainage from Seymour Drive cul-de-sac ongoing thing. Across from Trappe Frozen Foods. Does Town want to pursue clearing this drain? Will cost approximately $500.00. Pres. English authorized the work. Also Post Office " Stop Sign" replacement. Pres. English authorized this also.

NO NEW BUSINESS:

ANNOUNCEMENT:
July 4th Town Meeting changed to July 5^th for 4^th of July.

Sidewalks – New Plan

Only difference is curb is 6" instead of 8" new drain put in.

Com. Harrison we have been negotiating State Highway Sidewalk Retrofit using State funding. The project is approved by State Highway and final prints of amended plans are completed. One more construction easement signature is needed before construction can start. The proposed sidewalk will go from Maple Ave intersection to the Park this year, plans include project money for next year to complete a sidewalk all the way to intersection 565 and Old Trappe Road near the school on the west side of the road. The rest of distance around bend to the School Property and Town Houses are Town Streets and will be our expense, needs to be budgeted for next year. Section between Maple and the park 100% State funded. Governor Glendening is very supportive of this program.

Town Office closed July 4^th.

Meeting adjourned at 8:20 p.m.

Submitted by Joedy Cecil

Town Clerk

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PUBLIC HEARING ON GENERAL BUDGET

May 2, 2001

7:15 P.M.

Scroll down for regular meeting minutes.

A Public Hearing Meeting was opened and called to order by President Harrison at 7:20 P.M., Vice President English and Commissioners Quidas and Niemeyer were present. The Public Meeting was called to accept General Budget for the Year 2001-2002.

Miscellaneous Revenue you will notice item # 1451, 1^st item fund transfer from Enterprise Fund water and sewer to help offset office expenses used thru water and sewer. No other changes.

Mr. Croswell mentioned newsletter stating tax rates same .54. Newspaper said County rate to change. Comm. English we have already taken care of this matter. Since assessment is now on full value of property rate to .22 to generate same amount of money as .54.

Planning Comm. Chairman Jerry Adams discussed in Planning and Zoning meeting need for professional assistance in upcoming year to review Comprehensive Plan and revising sub division regulations and possibly doing more revision on zoning ordinance maybe rewriting whole thing. Town should move in that direction given the situation with wastewater treatment facility. I talked with Redman and Johnston they indicated cost working with us on this matter would be approximately two to four thousand dollars. I’m sure there would be other expenses to occur. $5,000.00 would probably be about the amount needed.

Mr. Sabin concerned about Mosquito Control. You have budgeted $1,500.00, we have had mild winter and early spring, there is going to be a lot of bugs does County pay a percentage or do we pay all? Comm. English, we pay percentage the County and State also pays a percentage. State determines. The State does the spraying we entered into an agreement with them. Mr. Sabin also questioned amount we receive from Cable TV. Thought someone should check into this to see if we are getting paid fairly.

Chairman Adams questioned User Revenue are we obligated to pay out as much as we get in. Pres. Harrison said we don’t have to use that revenue in fiscal year. If you can accumulate each year you can repave streets, like we did this past year on Greenfield Avenue. So if you don’t use it all this year you still get same amount next year have $226,000.00. Pres. Harrison said yes. Comm. Adams said then that becomes like a debt that you owe almost. Pres. Harrison said you have prior years unappropriated funds set in bank drawing interest until repave streets. Mr. Reid I don’t think you can carry over. On budget we have 63,000.00 coming in nothing going out except $22,000.00 under public works. Vice Pres. English that’s not true. It’s spent on street repair or street paving. We spent more that we had in there last year. Mr. Reid does Accountant have to send report to State show use of those funds what you have and have spent. I’m sure it has to be accounted for. Mr. Reid just curious, just so state doesn’t come in here makes you pay it all back. Pres. Harrison quite frankly I don’t know what permitted expenses are. There are a whole lot of things you could include in that I suspect you are right. We haven’t had a problem with it so far our accountant has been satisfied with what we show him. This is not out of line with what we have done in the past. Adjourn public hearing general fund budget.

TOWN MEETING MINUTES

MAY 2, 2001

7:30 p.m.

The regular town meeting was opened by President Harrison and called to order at 7:35 P.M., Vice President English and Commissioners Quidas, Darling and Mr. Niemeyer were present. Everyone stood to recite the Pledge of Allegiance. The April minutes were presented and accepted as presented. The April Financial Statement was read and accepted as presented.

OLD BUSINESS:

General Fund Budget

We have an Ordinance of the Town of Trappe adopting a budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1^st, 2001 ending June 30^th, 2002 in establishing rate of .22 per one hundred of assessed property value. Reason for .22 State has made a change of General Assembly under chapter 80 of Acts of 2000. Required that property tax rate on real property be placed on full cash value assessment. As a result on October property tax rate reduced 40% rate effective. By computation .22 rates will raise as much as .54 that we currently are using. We expressed interest in holding that line. Anyone questions. Tax bill will reflect this in current year. Will be same amount. Rates show change-billing change will show full assessment value. Questions on Ordinance? Pres. Harrison made Motion amend budget as proposed to take $5000.00 out of 1510 Office Expense transfer line #1503 Planning Commission. Change #1510 to $17,012.00 changing #1503 down to $7,000.00. Seconded to motion Comm. Niemeyer.

Call for Vote: Quidas - Yes English – Yes Harrison – Yes Niemeyer – Yes

Vice Pres. English amended budget and tax rate no question?

Pres. Harrison makes motion to adopt Ordinance 2-2001 adopting Budget officially year of July 1, 01 ending June 30, 02, .22 per one hundred assessed property value. Seconded Comm.Quidas, Vice Pres. English have motion made and seconded any question. Call for Vote: Quidas - Yes English - Yes Harrison – Yes Niemeyer – Yes

NEW BUSINESS:

LOCAL GOVERNMENT INSURANCE TRUST

RENEWAL RATES FOR FY-2002.

The Town agrees to accept the proposed rates for the FY-2002 to become effective July 1, 2001.

Voice vote from unanimous Council.

JOB DESCRIPTIONS (2)

Deputy Supervisor Description

Public Works Department

Pres. Harrison stated last year we decided to hire Superintendent Public Works Dept. Mr. Croswell has been in this position since last October. He is in charge of water and sewer department along with streets. He has been working seven days a week monitoring and supervising lagoon. Daily adding chemicals to lagoon and daily monitoring. We now have two documents proposing or declaring him to be Supervisor Public Works Department. Intention to hire a deputy for him to supervise. Job Description of Deputy generic job description. We need to act one-way or other. Do as proposed here or something different. Pres. Harrison has not gotten Council’s feeling on this. Two job descriptions on floor. Deputy Supervisor and Public Works Dept.

Mr. Croswell, we need to know that the State is putting pressure on for two certified operators on water side, licensed employees at all times. Only matter of time till State requires us to have two operators. When new Wastewater plant finished it will require two visits a day, anything happens now with lagoon period of days before real emergency. Something happens to new wastewater plant matter of hours. Need someone there right away to handle emergency.

Do we want supervisor?

Do we want Deputy?

We need to do something or we will undo what we have done. If not we will have to start looking at other options, free-lancer. Mr. Sabin believes we need to keep it in town respond quickly if needed. Mr. Reid said we have responsibility to State they will require audit of money spent. Not charging right rates or having right equipment. Borrowing money from State maintain everything properly and manage properly. If not the State will come in and take over. Mr. Reid Supervisor state employee or separate Corporation from town? Pres. Harrison yes, separate from town he is Public Works and Municipality. Budget for roads and streets general fund. Enterprise Fund separate will not be intermingled it is separate corporation. Deputy Supervisor will be paid out of general fund. Funds are being separated by accounts now.

We have hired Supervisor do we want to have a department and an assistant or not? We have drafted resolution reviewed and made suggestions this is 3^rd copy. Another one for Deputy Supervisor. It takes two people to run facilities. Comm. Quidas made motion to look into hiring Deputy Supervisor. Pres. Harrison asked Comm. Quidas to amend motion on floor to establish Public Works Department, and establish a position of Deputy Supervisor or assistant for our supervisor. Introduced (Resolution # 2-2001 Public Works Dept. and Resolution # 3-2001 Deputy Supervisor). After lengthy discussion from Commissioners Mr. Croswell and various citizens the motion was seconded. Vice Pres. English seconded Comm. Quidas motion. Pres. Harrison we have motion and second on floor. Nothing supports buying equipment nothing in budget of buying any substantial equipment.

Motion and seconded. Vote: Quidas - Yes English – Yes Harrison – Yes Niemeyer – Yes

Commissioner Niemeyer follow up pilot motion, split motion Deputy Supervisor description give us 90 day dead line to make this official. If after 90 days have nothing bring back to table. Make motion have 90 days on this. To have active or motion to be active. Motion on floor to act on securing a deputy supervisor within 90 days Vice Pres. English seconded. Advertise we should have hired somebody or know where we are going with it. Not leave in limbo. Should have 90 days in which to post it and meet with people. Cannot guarantee have somebody hired in 90 days? Pursue as quickly as possible. Needs to be advertised applications taken and interviews.

Amend Motion Comm. Niemeyer: Make Public Advertisement soon as possible with review in 90 days where we are going with it what progress. Motion on floor. Seconded Comm. Quidas.

Vote: Quidas – Yes English- Yes Harrison – Yes Niemeyer- Yes

GRASS CUTTING

Pres. Harrison we did advertise for proposals for grass cutting got three. We have had 1 grass cutting. Still use low bidder until decide to do something different or write up contract. Proposal price per cutting. Results of trial run and one cutting not two. Pres. Harrison stated had two identical bids within $100.00 of each other. Use alternately or decide which way to go. Vice Pres. English stated we need to decide whether cut on regular basis, part under Deputy Supervisor. Vice Pres. English makes motion go with low bidder finish cutting grass rest of season until make different arrangement. Seconded Comm. Niemeyer. Discussion: Comm. Quidas check out work grass was tall needed to spread around and do better job, need to check out and evaluate. Have workshop and review before we advertise specific deputies of Deputy and Public Works Superintendent, it includes grass cutting to give employee enough work. Have 3 months to review. Pres. Harrison stated that the motion on floor low bidder cutting season for year. At end of time whether we want to assign to public works or not. Cannot evaluate man on one cutting. No contract. We have agreement set price will call when needs to be cut. Motion leaves agreement in place till transfer over to public works Dept. Motion Vice Pres. English give to low person on as needed basis either Mr. Croswell or I will direct how and when to cut. Vice Pres. English Motion gives grass cutting rest of season to low bidder meantime working on the other. There was a $400.00 difference between low bidder and high bidder per cutting. Consider amend motion contingent upon satisfactory or not or poor. Pending evaluation of job. One more normal cutting might need at least two more cuttings.

Mr. Reid fire him if not satisfied. Not under written contract. Motion on floor. Seconded Comm. Niemeyer. Call for vote

Quidas- Yes English – Yes Harrison – Yes Niemeyer – Yes.

Moore and Moore Homes request water Sewer hookup on Seymour Drive lot 45 approved lot self imposed council must improve all water and sewer hookups. Vice Pres. English makes motion we grant it. Motion grant seconded Comm. Quidas

Vote: Quidas – Yes English – Yes Harrison – Yes Niemeyer – Yes

Tax Rate passed Ordinance set tax rate.

Motion Vice Pres. English set tax rate .22. Seconded Comm. Niemeyer.

Vote: Quidas – Yes English – Yes Harrison – Yes Niemeyer – Yes

Sidewalk Retrofit not on Agenda.

Pres. Harrison said State offers sidewalk retrofit. State highway within corporate municipality can be fitted with sidewalks have funding in helping put in sidewalks. We got engineering study done free. This would extend Maple all way to White Marsh School on State 565 we rejected engineering proposal originally 9ft from road 5 or 6 peoples yards not that much left from road. New proposal calls for curb and gutter take care of water 5 ft 9" total from white line travel portion of highway. Downside yards including mine curb and sidewalk l0" higher than front yard. Have to fill to level of yards. No way around this. Takes us back to original proposal have circulated to commissioners. Looks like enough to fund project from Maple to new part to school by 2002. This is not locked in stone is just proposal. Are we interested in taking advantage of this money? Mean six new inlets to be constructed. Take care of storm water. Vice Pres. English made motion to continue with sidewalk retrofit program. Motion seconded by Comm. Niemeyer. Motion second expresses our interest in sidewalk retrofit program.

Vote: Quidas – Yes English – Yes Harrison – Yes Niemeyer – Yes.

Attorney Booth – Ordinance Talbot Bank requiring you to sign 1997 $1, 247,000.00 Issued bond problems with MDE.

Process works under state law get bond issued somebody buys bond completion of project. Need Interim financing Talbot Bank no line of credit. New financing for new construction. Same as passed in 1997 except new amount for bond interest rate was 6 ¼ and now 5 ¼ take care of amount of bond. Bids came in high need additional funding. Need to start drawing down fund Friday June 1^st. The next meeting isn’t until following Wednesday, Drafted as emergency Ordinance 03-01 Emergency Ordinance of the town of Trappe authorizing execution and delivery of a bond in anticipation, note in a principal amount of $1,247,250 payable to the Talbot Bank of Easton, Maryland and pledging the full faith and credit and taxing authority to the repayment of the same; said sum being borrowed to provide interim financing for improvements to the Town’s sewer system and wastewater treatment facility and said loan to be repaid out of the proceeds of the sale of the Trappe sewer improvement bond of 1997. Any discussion. Motion made by Vice Pres. English pass Ordinance 03-2001 Seconded Comm. Quidas.

Vote: Quidas – Yes English – Yes Harrison – Yes Niemeyer – Yes.

Vice Pres. English said streets and storm drains need cleaning. Price for doing one person spray before cleaning $250.00 spray, clean streets and all catch basins, $1,200.00. Motion authorizes cleaning of streets made by Comm. Quidas Motion seconded by Comm. Niemeyer. Need approval of council.

Quidas – yes English – yes Harrison – Yes Niemeyer – Yes

Other new business:

Mr. Sabin Water Meter on line established rate yet. They are on line physically they are being read now. Comm. Quidas need to do some studying, Comm. Harrison need to put together workshop. Like to start billing in July. Mrs. Beauchamp has rate been established. Has not been established we cannot make a profit. Extensive discussion on rates and cost of water bills. Workshop set up to review rates May 14^th at 7:00 P.M.

Adjourn Meeting 9:50 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,
Joedy Cecil
Town Clerk

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TOWN MEETING MINUTES

April 4, 2001

7:30 P.M.

The regular town meeting was opened by President Harrison and called to order at 7:35 P.M., Vice President English and Commissioners Quidas, Darling and Mr. Niemeyer were present. Everyone stood to recite the Pledge of Allegiance. The March minutes were presented and accepted as presented. The March Financial Statement was read and accepted as presented.

OLD BUSINESS:

General Fund Budget

Mr. English presented General Fund Budget for coming year. Same tax rate .54.

No questions set up hearing for comments. Public hearing before next town meeting at 7:15 on May 2, 200l.

Water Bill Policy

Mr. English referred to the water-billing Ordinance in place.

Ordinance 5-94 amended 6-97.

Payment of a water bill is due in full within ninety days of the date of billing. When water bill is not paid within the ninety day period, the Town shall provide notice by doorknob hanging or by letter sent via regular U.S.Mail to the last known address of the property owner and current occupant of the property, stating that the water bill is delinquent and that the water service may be turned off on the fourteenth day after the bill becomes due. Bills paid after the ninety-day period are subject to a finance charge of 6% per quarter. Water Sewer turned off 14 days after notice. Fee for turning off not less $25.00 and turning on $25.00.

Above Ordinance is now being followed: Commissioners agreed that water would not be cut off without notice being made by doorknob hanging.

Report Attorneys Referendum term limits:

Possible under town to put term limits to issue referendum on ballot from citizens. Looked at law time frame. Election next month. Need State publishing 4 times before election. Draw up another Resolution Charter Amendment 201 Town Charter for limit of two elected terms. Proposed Amendment placed on ballot to be voted on by residents, will only become effective if majority of voters approve at poles. If majority fail to approve then null and void, nothing happens and charter amendment stays same. This changes burden to the citizens who must approve it. When would it go into effect? Board of Supervisors notifies us within 10 days, goes into effect on 30^th day. Section now says limited two consecutive terms. Mr. Harrison any further discussion questions? None

Motion made for Resolution 2-01 to remove term limits of two elected terms. Motion so move Mr. Darling, seconded Mr. Niemeyer.

Vote:

Quidas - Y English - N Harrison - Y Darling - Y Niemeyer - Y

Put on ballot up to voters accept or reject. Give to Star Democrat.

NEW BUSINESS:

Waste Water Chemicals

Mr. Harrison stated Mr. Croswell meeting standard requirements for chemicals at WWTP. Chemicals costing approximately $1,000 per month. Would like to purchase in larger quantities to save money, he needs approval since access of $1,000.00 is limited to Town Commissioners for approval.