December 1, 2009

7:30 AM

The Brandon Board of Selectmen will meet on Tuesday, December 1, 2009 at the Brandon Town Office at 7:30 AM expecting to consider the following, but reserve the right to add items to create a final agenda which shall be posted at the Town Office, Community Bulletin Board on Center Street and between Dave's Grocery Store and the Forest Dale Post Office, and the Bulletin Board at the First Brandon National Bank

1. Call to Order Chairman Hatch opened the meeting at 7:40 AM. Board members present: Bill Hatch, Richard Baker, Mitch Pearl and Kellie Martin. Others: Keith Arlund, Anna Scheck, Chief Brickell, Jim Leary, Nancy Leary, Lee Kahrs and Lind Stewart.

a) Agenda Adoption Motion by Baker, second by Pearl to adopt the agenda. Motion passed.

2. Consent Agenda

a) Appointment of Interim Select Board Member-Chairman Hatch opened the discussion of the Select Board appointment deferred from the previous meeting November 23, 2009. There was a lengthy discussion by all board members regarding the strengths and weaknesses of the two candidates, Devon Fuller and Lynn Saunders. It was noted by Mr. Pearl that Saunders had stepped forward as a "favor" to the board and that she had no interest in running for the position in March. He also noted that Fuller currently serves on the Neshobe School Board and was also unsure whether or not he would run in March. Mr. Baker remarked that Saunders had several years experience on the board and was familiar with the process. Mr. Hatch expressed concern that individuals on more than one board often had scheduling issues. Mrs. Stewart interjected that Ms. Saunders was often not in attendance at Planning Commission meetings. Ms. Martin indicated that she has "gone and forth" on the candidates. She felt that both had something to offer. Mr. Leary spoke on behalf of Mr. Fuller and noted that he was civic minded and had experience on the school board. Mr. Baker added that he had encouraged Mr. Fuller to run for the board but felt he might be more effective if he ran for the position in March. Mr. Baker is inclined to support Ms. Saunders due to her prior experience. Mr. Pearl then nominated Mr. Fuller and Mr. Baker nominated Ms. Saunders. The Chair indicated that he would vote. Mr. Baker suggested that there was an "undercurrent" of sentiment against the proposed Nickerson Road Project and that Mr. Fuller "may have an agenda" or conflict. Mr. Baker felt that it was important not to come onto a public board with an agenda. Mrs. Stewart stated that Mr. Baker should recuse himself. Mr. Pearl stated that it was not a conflict to have an opinion and it is appropriate for someone with an agenda to try and be elected to such a position. He concluded with the statement that this board is not a permitting authority and that separation of powers at this level is a good thing. Ms. Martin noted that she had run for the board to tackle issues in the police department and that person to be appointed was only one of five. Mr. Baker stated that if the other three members concurred on Mr. Fuller he would withdraw Ms. Saunders nomination but would not vote on the matter. There being no other discussion Chairman Hatch called for the vote. Devon Fuller was appointed by a vote of 3-0.

3. Fiscal

a) Warrant November 24, 2009- $5,400 Motion by Pearl, second by Martin to approve/ratify the warrant. Motion passed.

4. Old/Other Business There was no old or other business.

5. Possible Executive Session-Contracts Mr. Arlund requested that the board go into to Executive Session to discuss contractual matters. Motion by Martin, second by Pearl to enter executive session and include the Town Manager and the Police Chief. Motion passed board entered at 8:15 AM. The board came out of executive session at 8:40 AM.

Following the Executive Session Mr. Baker made a motion to reconsider the interim board appointment. Second by Pearl. Mr. Baker nominated Mr. Fuller for the appointment. There being no other nominations the board voted unanimously to appoint Mr. Fuller to the board.

6. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 8:45 AM.

Respectfully submitted:

Keith O. Arlund

Town Manager