HomeMy Public PortalAbout10.07.20 Fin Com PacketTown of Brewster Finance Committee
2198 Main St., Brewster, MA 02631
email@brewster-ma.gov
(508) 896-3701
MEETING AGENDA
Remote Participation Only
October 7, 2020 at 4:00PM
This meeting will be conducted by remote participation pursuant to Governor Baker’s March 2020 orders suspending certain Open Meeting Law
provisions and imposing limits on public gatherings. No in-person meeting attendance will be permitted. If the Town is unable to live broadcast
this meeting, a record of the proceedings will be provided on the Town website as soon as possible. The Town has established specific email
addresses for each board and committee so the public can submit comments either before or during the meeting. To submit public comment
or questions to the Finance Committee, please email: fincommeeting@brewster-ma.gov. To view the:
Live broadcast: Tune to Brewster Government TV Channel 18
Livestream: Go to www.livestream.brewster-ma.gov
Audio/video recording: Go to www.tv.brewster-ma.gov
Finance
Committee
Harvey (Pete) Dahl
Chair
Frank Bridges
Vice Chair
William Meehan
Clerk
Andrew Evans
Larissa Haynes
Honey Pivorotto
Robert Tobias
Robert Young
Town
Administrator
Peter Lombardi
Finance Director
Mimi Bernardo
1.Call to Order
2.Declaration of a Quorum
3.Meeting Participation Statement
4.TA Report
5.NRHS Building Project Update/Subcommittee Report
6.Discussion of Financial Management Policies and Practices and
Department of Revenue recommendations
7.Liaison Policy and Assignments
8.Matters Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chair
9.Review of Minutes from 8/12, 9/2, & 9/12
10.Liaison reports
11.Adjournment
Date Posted:Date Revised:Received by Town Clerk:
FY21-22 Select Board Strategic Plan
Vision Building Block Goal #Goal Description High Priority Timeline Vision Plan FY20-21 SB Plan Primary Responsible Party Other Key Stakeholders
Community Character CC-1 Determine policy position on potential changes to Community Preservation Act fund allocation
formula X FY21 Community Preservation
Committee
Select Board; Finance Committee; Open
Space Committee; Affordable Housing
Trust; Historical Commission; Recreation
Commission
CC-2 Develop plan to identify/address issues of diversity and inclusion, including potential formation of
task force or advisory committee FY21 Select Board & Town
Administration
Affordable Housing Trust; All Citizens
Access Committee; Police Chief
CC-3 Engage stakeholders to determine policy position on residential exemption and other potential local
tax relief policy options FY21-22 X X Tax Relief Working Group
Select Board; Finance Committee; Board
of Assessors; Brewster Association of Part-
Time Residents
CC-4 Continue to implement Age-Friendly Community Action Plan and modify as needed FY21-22 X X Council on Aging Board & Dept Select Board; Town Administration
Open Space OS-1 Complete Drummer Boy Park Master Plan Update in coordination with proposed Wing Island
boardwalk project X FY21-22 X X Drummer Boy Park Advisory
Committee Select Board; Town Administration
OS-2 Develop and execute updated plan for Dog Park project (requires future discussion to determine
whether to include in Strategic Plan)??X X Dog Park Committee
Select Board; Town Administration;
Friends of Brewster Dog Park; Community
Preservation Committee
Housing H-1 Identify Affordable Housing Trust operating/capital needs, develop funding plan, and establish
permanent funding mechanism X FY21 X X Affordable Housing Trust &
Finance Team Select Board; Finance Committee
H-2 Establish housing rehabilitation program and long-term rental assistance program X FY21 X X Affordable Housing Trust Town Administration; Housing
Coordinator
H-3 Develop affordable housing off Millstone Road
X FY21-22 X X Affordable Housing Trust
Select Board; Community Preservation
Committee; Town Administration; Housing
Coordinator
Local Economy LE-1 Complete and launch electronic permitting platform, and develop Guide to Doing Business in
Brewster to assist residents, contractors, and businesses in navigating local permitting processes FY21-22 X Town Administration IT Director; Building Dept; Health Dept;
Planning Dept
LE-2 Consider designating Underpass Road as District of Critical Planning Concern with Cape Cod
Commission FY22 X X Town Planner Planning Board; Select Board; Town
Administration
Coastal Management CM-1 Complete gap analysis of local land use regulations along the coastal bank and assess merits of Cape
Cod Commission model bylaw FY21 X Town Planner
Natural Resources Commission & Dept;
Planning Board; Conservation
Commission; Board of Health & Dept
CM-2 Support new Natural Resources Commission in implementing the Coastal Resource Management
Plan and other similar initiatives FY21-22 X Natural Resources Dept Select Board; Town Administration
CM-3 Work with MA Department of Conservation and Recreation on Rail Trail extension across Route 6A
down to Linnell Landing FY21-22 X X Town Administration
Natural Resources Dept; Dept of Public
Works; Legislative Delegation; Cape Cod
CommissionCM-4 Investigate feasibility of new aquaculture program off Wing Island and update related Department
of Natural Resources regulations as necessary FY22 X Natural Resources Dept Select Board; Town Administration
Water Resources WR-1 Develop clear timeline/plan for moving water quality initiatives forward and determine whether to
remain in Cape Cod and Islands Water Quality Protection Fund FY21 X X Water Quality Working Group Select Board
WR-2 Identify preferred approach(es) to best address nitrogen and phosphorus mitigation in
environmentally sensitive areas FY21-22 X X Water Quality Working Group Board of Health; Conservation
Commission; Brewster Ponds Coalition
WR-3 Develop and propose stormwater management bylaw (MS4 permit)FY21-22 X X Stormwater Working Group Planning Board; Select Board
WR-4 Evaluate vulnerable Water Department utility infrastructure, determine possible
improvements/modifications, and implement as possible/applicable FY22 X Water Dept Town Administration
FY21-22 Select Board Strategic Plan
Vision Building Block Goal #Goal Description High Priority Timeline Vision Plan FY20-21 SB Plan Primary Responsible Party Other Key Stakeholders
Governance G-1 Present the annual budget in an easily acceptable format and provide detailed review of Town's
financial status on regular basis X FY21 X X Finance Team Select Board; Finance Committee
G-3 Complete design/launch of new, more user friendly Town website and optimize BGTV’s potential as
communication tool X FY21 X X Website Working Group Town Administration
G-2 Adopt financial policies that are in accordance with 2019 MA Department of Revenue report and
best practices, and implement short- and medium-term recommendations of DOR report as
applicable
X FY21-22 X Finance Team Select Board; Finance Committee
G-4 Continue to implement Vision Plan and develop Local Comprehensive Plan that addresses the
following key policy issues: 1. Develop a high-level growth policy 2. Identify and evaluate policies /
zoning bylaws that recognize and take advantage of potential synergies between affordable housing
development and open space preservation 3. Perform a comprehensive review of zoning bylaws,
with particular attention to ones that support more housing choice
X FY21-22 X X Vision Planning Committee
Planning Board; Town Planner; Select
Board; Affordable Housing Trust; Open
Space Committee
G-5 Update Select Board Policy on Board and Committee meetings to improve transparency and provide
better access to information FY21 X X Town Administration Select Board; IT Director; BGTV
G-6 Identify funding to support creation of new Human Resource Department to focus on the following
key initiatives: 1. Implement findings from HR audit 2. Develop succession plans for key staff
positions 3. Complete compensation and classification study and related staffing analysis of all union
and non-union Town personnel, and implement recommended changes 4. Foster a culture that
views residents as customers and Town services as the product - be proactive, transparent, and
engaged
FY21-22 X Town Administration Select Board
G-7 Develop and seek adoption of Town Charter and associated bylaw changes FY21-22 X Charter Committee Select Board; Town Counsel;
Boards/Committees & Town Depts
G-8 Foster stronger relationships with Nauset School District officials, especially regarding finances
FY21-22 Town Administration
Select Board; Finance Committee; Nauset
Regional School Committee; Brewster
School Committee; Nauset School
Administration
G-9 Actively recruit residents to fill vacancies and provide training/ guidance to volunteers serving on
Town Boards and Committees FY21-22 X X Select Board & Town
Administration Town Counsel
G-10 Determine merits of making longer-term changes to traditional municipal service models – applying
lessons learned from pandemic response FY21-22 Town Administration Select Board; Dept Heads
FY21-22 Select Board Strategic Plan
Vision Building Block Goal #Goal Description High Priority Timeline Vision Plan FY20-21 SB Plan Primary Responsible Party Other Key Stakeholders
Community Infrastructure CI-1 Complete School Consolidation and Community Center Feasibility Studies via a transparent and
engaging public process and work with key stakeholders to determine appropriate next steps X FY21-22 X X
Community Center Planning
Committee; Nauset School
Officials
Council on Aging & Dept; Recreation
Commission & Dept; Brewster Elementary
Schools; Local/Regional Social Service
Agencies (Veterans, etc)
CI-2 Determine support for the Brewster Ladies Library renovation project
FY21 Select Board
Brewster Ladies Library Association Board
and Dept; Town Administration; Capital
Planning Committee; Finance Committee
CI-3 Complete comprehensive assessment of Captains Golf operations, finances, and capital needs, and
determine feasibility of transitioning to enterprise fund FY21-22 Golf Dept & Finance Team Golf Commission; Select Board; Finance
Committee
CI-4 Implement 5 Year Green Community Energy Reduction Plan, manage ongoing solar projects with
assistance from new Energy Manager, and reduce greenhouse emissions whenever possible FY21-22 Town Administration Select Board; Energy Committee; Facilities
Manager
CI-5 Complete Hazard Mitigation Plan and seek to implement Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness
projects that support climate change adaptation FY21-22 X Town Planner & Town
Administration
Dept of Public Works; Natural Resources
Dept; Water Dept; Fire Dept
CI-6 Continue to invest in road infrastructure in the following key areas: 1. Complete design and
construction of Millstone Road 2. Develop Complete Streets Prioritization Plan and seek project
grant funding 3. Complete update to Pavement Management Plan 4. Develop comprehensive Road
Capital Plan & consider merits of seeking 2nd major road bond
FY21-22 X X Town Administration & Dept of
Public Works Select Board; Capital Planning Committee
Pandemic Response &
Recovery
PR-1 Continue to deliver essential services to residents while reducing risk of coronavirus transmission in
all municipal activities, properties, and facilities X FY21-22 Town Administration Select Board; Town Depts
PR-2 Communicate effectively with the public, town employees/volunteers, business community, and
visitors about town policies/actions related to the pandemic X FY21-22 Town Administration & Health
Dept Select Board; Town Depts
PR-3 Encourage and facilitate voting by mail for upcoming elections, and implement pandemic safety
measures for in-person voting at elections and Town Meeting FY21 Town Administration & Town
Clerk Town Depts
PR-4 Determine and implement best approach to Board/Committee meetings FY21 Select Board & Town
Administration BGTV; Facilities Manager
PR-5 Communicate and coordinate local response/recovery efforts with regional partners FY21-22 Town Administration Select Board
PR-6 Continue to monitor and support employee wellness FY21-22 Town Administration Select Board; Dept Heads
REPORT FROM TOWN
OF BREWSTER, FINCOM
SUBCOMMITTEE
SEPTEMBER 2020
Is the $132 m project proposed by the Nauset Regional School
Committee is worthy of Brewster FINCOM and taxpayer support?
ON NAUSET
REGIONAL
HIGH SCHOOL
BUILDING
PROJECT
FINAL DRAFT – REPORT OF FINCOM SUBCOMMITTEE ON NAUSET REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL PROJECT
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Background on Sub-Committee
1. The Nauset Regional High School (NRHS) subcommittee of the Brewster Finance Committee
was formed in December of 2019 to focus on the proposed project to renovate and expand
the regional high school and provide input to the Finance Committee in its deliberations and
final vote on the project as configured by the School Committee and presented to the state
for approval.
2. Prior to and subsequent to the formation of the subcommittee, the Brewster Finance
Committee (FINCOM) met and attended a number of presentations held to inform all
stakeholders in the project including:
• A joint presentation by the NRHS Building Committee to FINCOM and the Select Boards on
July 22, 2019
• A public presentation by the NRHC Building Committee and the Project Operating
Manager on August 25, 2019
• A presentation made by Nauset Regional School Committee (NRSC) and NRHS Building
Committee members on October 2, 2019
• A public presentation made by Jack McCarthy of the MSBA on November 19, 2019
• A presentation to FINCOM by NRS Committee members Chris Easley and Jim O’Leary on
December 2, 2019
• A joint presentation by the NRHS Building committee to FINCOM and Select Board on
January 20, 2020.
The subcommittee met with members of the NRHS Building Committee and the finance staff
of Nauset Regional School Administration on two occasions in October and November 2019.
The subcommittee has met six times since its formation in December 2019.
3. Once the full range of considerations is addressed, the key decision that needs to be made
is whether the project proposed by the Nauset Regional School Committee is worthy of
Brewster FINCOM and taxpayer support.
Current State of NRHS
4. The current NRHS is 50 years old and requires substantial work on its infrastructure.
5. Only one major project has been done since it was originally constructed.
6. It is not fully compliant with the American Disabilities Act (ADA) and has other code
violations.
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Project Size and Scope
7. The proposed project scope involves a combination of renovation and new construction.
The total project cost is $132 m. The Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) has
reviewed the project and committed to a contribution of $36 m.
8. The School Committee proposes to issue bonds for some period of time (20 to 30 years) to
fund $98 m IF voters in the region/district approve the project and thereby agree to fund
the debt. (APPENDIX 1/1A – COMMENTS PREPARED BY R. YOUNG FOR SELECT BOARD
REGARDING IMPACT OF 20, 25, 30 YEAR SCENARIOS AND SUPPORTING ANALYSIS)
9. All funding for the bonds or debt service would be the responsibility of taxpayers in the
towns forming the region/district.
10. Taxpayers who are currently legally bound by their respective Select Boards to participate in
the Nauset region/district are those residing in Brewster, Orleans, Wellfleet and Eastham.
11. These taxpayers will have the opportunity to vote on whether or not to approve the NRHS
project as approved by MSBA when it is presented in Town Meeting and on ballot in Spring
of 2021.
12. The project as proposed and designed is the ONLY option for voters to consider at the
Spring 2021 town meeting and ballot.
13. This maximum student enrollment approved by the MSBA as the basis for the project is
905. (APPENDIX 2 – MEMO TO FINCOM DATED 6/30/20 FROM F. BRIDGES REGARDING
NRHS PROJECT AND INTER-DISTRICT SCHOOL CHOICE)
14. The Superintendent has strongly supported the need for a school population this size as
critical to robust programming, diversity, and essential for effective recruitment and
utilization of full-time teachers.
Student Utilization of NRHS
15. Actual student volume at NRHS for FY 2020 was as follows:
Brewster* 281 31%
Eastham, Wellfleet, and
Orleans*
335 36%
Provincetown and Truro 86 9%
CHOICE – other towns 219 24%
Total 921 100%
*4 TOWNS IN DISTRICT = 67% OF STUDENT VOLUME
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16. Average enrollment from the 4 towns in the district as well as the tuition towns
(Provincetown and Truro) decreased 2% respectively each year while enrollment of CHOICE
students increased an average of 4% per year. Enrollment in 2020 is comprised as follows:
67% of the youth are from the 4 towns in the district; 33% are from outside the district (9%
from Provincetown and Truro; 24% are CHOICE. (see CHART 1 on following page)
17. While the total budget increased 29% over 10 years averaging 3% per year, the bu dget per
enrolled student increased 39% over the 10 years or an average of 4% per year as student
enrollment overall decreased an average of 1% per year. (see CHART 1 on following page)
18. The MSBA performed a demographic study supporting the enrollment figure including an
expectation a 1% decline per year for students within the district.
19. The MSBA data shows a 4-1/2% decline in the student population between 2017 and the
end of construction in 2025.
20. We cannot determine the impact on enrollment of the multiple affordable housing
initiatives across the 4 towns in the region/district. In Brewster the Habitat for Humanity
community has added families with children to the town’s student population. The
Millstone project will also likely add students.
21. Eastham and Orleans have similar projects that will coming online.
Financial Considerations
22. The School Committee makes a decision each year whether to continue the CHOICE
program and the number of students to accept in each grade.
23. Of the four towns in the Nauset regional system, Brewster funds the largest percentage of
NRHS costs at nearly half based on the percentage of its student enrollment the prior year
in relation to the other 3 towns (see #15 for chart 281/616=47%).
24. As a result, Brewster would be obligated for nearly $50 m of the project debt of $98 m if the
project is approved.
25. The project impacts taxpayers in three ways: operating budgets, capital budgets and debt
service.
26. A five-year agreement executed in April 2019 exists with the towns of Provincetown and
Truro in which the two towns agree to pay $18,457 per student (flat fee) in agreements
expire at the end of school year 2024. This flat fee is increased by 2-1/2% for the first four
years and 3-1/2 % in the final year.
27. The agreement does not require full operating costs or full portion of capital costs nor does
it include any obligation to fund debt service on any major projects including this project.
28. CHOICE students are students from towns throughout MA who choose and are accepted to
attend the Nauset Regional School District. The state law effectively limits annual operating
budget reimbursement from the town of residence to $5k. The state law does not require
the sending district to fund capital costs or debt service for major projects.
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CHART 1 – CREATED FROM NRHS DATA TRENDS 2010-2020 IN APPENDIX 4
KEY BUDGET AND ENROLLMENT STATISTICS FOR LAST DECADE AT NAUSET REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
NRHS
Budget
(excludes
Region,
other
expenses)
NRHS
BUDGET PER
ENROLLMENT
TOTAL NRHS
ENROLLMENT
Total NRHS
4 member
towns
enrollment
Total NRHS
member
towns +
tuition
enrollment
Total
CHOICE
enrollment
4 Member
Towns as a %
of TOTAL
ENROLLMENT
Provincetown
and Truro
Tuition as a %
of TOTAL
ENROLLMENT
CHOICE as a%
of TOTAL
ENROLLMENT
FY10 (09/10)$9,126,011 $9,190 993 800 840 153 81%4%15%
FY11 $9,059,459 $9,179 987 737 819 168 75%8%17%
FY12 $9,436,281 $9,779 965 696 780 185 72%9%19%
FY13 $9,725,011 $10,026 970 695 780 190 72%9%20%
FY14 $10,250,107 $10,010 1024 706 810 214 69%10%21%
FY15 $10,730,685 $11,017 974 687 777 197 71%9%20%
FY16 $10,968,281 $11,181 981 676 772 209 69%10%21%
FY17 $11,131,812 $11,780 945 642 734 211 68%10%22%
FY18 $11,086,421 $11,998 924 603 688 236 65%9%26%
FY19 $11,468,531 $12,149 944 624 716 228 66%10%24%
FY20 $11,781,018 $12,792 921 616 702 219 67%9%24%
% change FY10-FY20 29%39%-7%-23%-16%43%
AVERAGE PER YEAR 3%4%-1%-2%-2%4%
OBSERVATIONS:
Total budget increased 29% over 10 years ......... or an average of 3% per year.
Budget per student increased 39% over 10 years .....or an average of 4% per year; student enrollment has decreased an average of 1% per year.
Average enrollment from 4 towns in district and tuition towns (Ptown and Truro) decreased 2% each year; CHOICE increased an average of 4% per year.
Enrollment in 2020 is comprised of 67% youth from district and 33% outside the district (9% Ptown/Truro + 24% CHOICE).
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29. State law does stipulate some additional payment for costs associated with Choice students
with special education needs.
30. The State law regarding financing/reimbursement for costs related to CHOICE students,
known as the inter-district school choice, has not changed since its inception in 1991.
31. Although not required under the state law, the district provides t ransportation for CHOICE
students. The district does not provide transportation for tuition students from
Provincetown and Truro.
32. In a March 2020 memo, the district superintendent reports receiving $5,800 in operating
revenues on average for CHOICE students representing a deficit per student in operating
costs of $14,900 ($20,700 - $5,800).
33. In total for FY 2018, the district reported receiving gross reimbursement/revenues of $1.5 m
for the high school from CHOICE students.
34. The five-year agreement with Provincetown and Truro requires payment of approximately
$2,243 less ($20,700-$18,457) than the actual cost per student, although Provincetown and
Truro provide for their own transportation costs .
35. Taxpayers from the 4 towns in the region/district pay nearly $25,900 per district student per
year in operating costs. The overall cost/student is about $2 0,700. District taxpayers are
therefore paying $5,200 or 25% more per student than the average cost to subsidize
unfunded costs for students from Provincetown and Truro as well as CHOICE students.
36. The approximately $3.5 m per year in operating cost savings from reducing the subsidies
related to CHOICE by accepting no CHOICE students could effectively be used to fund the
four district towns’ school building project debt service costs. Assuming a 30-year bond
term at a 2.4% interest rate, this $3.5 m per year redirection of funds would support $74 m
in debt toward funding a school building project.
37. Over the last ten years (2010 to 2020), the NRHS did not request increases to its operating
budget more than 2.5% per year.
38. During this same 10-year period, total enrollment has decreased 7% and the total NRHS
budget has increased 29%. This translates to budgeted costs per enrolled student
increasing 39% during the period, and CHOICE students increasing from 15% to 24% of the
total student population. (APPENDIX 3– MEMO TO FINCOM DATED 11/27/19 PREPARED BY
R. YOUNG REGARDING COST TO EDUCATE AND POTENTIAL SAVINGS FROM THE
ELIMINATION OF INTER-DISTRICT SCHOOL CHOICE)
Other Considerations
39. The School Committee has not decided the term of the financing (20, 25 or 30 years).
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40. The Select Board in Brewster has recommended 20 years . (APPENDIX 1/1A – COMMENTS
PREPARED BY R. YOUNG FOR SELECT BOARD REGARDING IMPACT OF 20, 25, 30 YEAR
SCENARIOS AND SUPPORTING ANALYSIS)
41. The total annual property tax increase to Brewster taxpayers for the project, inclusive of the
subsidy for students from Provincetown and Truro as well as CHOICE students, has not
published at this time and cannot be published until the School Committee votes on the
term for the debt.
42. Market interest rates are expected to be lower than those included in the project estimate.
43. Taxpayers have to choose between approving this project and paying a subsidy for
unfunded costs associated with students who are not from the 4 towns in the
region/district OR rejecting the project knowing there is a risk that an alternate project
could be presented for which the state refuses to provide funding shifting the burden for
100% of the costs to the taxpayers.
44. If the current proposal is defeated and an alternate project is undertaken that eliminates
and/or substantially reduces CHOICE and/or Provincetown/Truro student enrollment, the
approximately $3.5 million/year in operating cost savings from educating fewer students
could effectively be used to fund the four district towns debt servi ce costs for this alternate
project. Assuming a 30-year bond term at a 2.4% interest rate, this $3.5 million/year
redirection of funds would support $74 million in debt. When combined with any MSBA
support could fund the entire alternate building project with zero property tax increase
versus today. (APPENDIX 4 – NRHS BUDGET AND ENROLLMENT TRENDS 2010-2020 DATA
COMPILED BY R. YOUNG)
45. The proposed schematic design was approved by the MSBA in August 2019 and complies
with current building and accessibility codes. The onset and continued expansion of the
pandemic creates two fundamental challenges for the project:
• It is not clear if the MSBA approval provides sufficient flexibility to incorporate design
modifications necessary to meet new student/teacher needs arising from COVID 19. Such
changes might include use of remote learning labs to supplement in-person learning , a
change in the size and design of “in-person” classrooms, increased use of automation and
“touchless technology” to replace manual systems (doors, light switches, temperature
controls), the use of anti-bacterial materials and finishes, the addition of low density and
one way student access and egress flow patterns and high efficiency/output airflow
systems to respond to the highly infectious nature of this virus.
• It is not unreasonable to expect that school design and building codes will change in the
near future. School population sizes, newly designated high-risk activities (arrivals,
assemblies, lunch, group-based activities and departures) will all need to be examined.
(APPENDICES 5 AND 6: ARCHITECTURAL DIGEST, HOW THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC WILL
FINAL DRAFT – REPORT OF FINCOM SUBCOMMITTEE ON NAUSET REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL PROJECT
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CHANGE THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT AND THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS,
REOPENING AMERICA STRATEGIES FOR SAFER SCHOOLS)
DISCUSSION DRAFT HP
PROS AND CONS OF APPROVING NAUSET REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL PROJECT AS PRESENTED TO VOTERS
prepared by H. Pivirotto for subcommittee discussion
PROS (Reasons to Vote for the Project)CONS (Reasons to Vote against the Project)
Significant issues and concerns at current 50 year
old school will be resolved in 3 to 5 years to
include compliance with code and ADA.
Planned project may not allow adequate modifications
or enhancements required to address COVID related
issues.
905 Student capacity supports leadership desire
for more diverse student population and more
robust curriculum.
Project is underway; 3 years of planning and design
work has been completed and project has received
approval from the MSBA; failure to approve could
result in delays and potential increases in interest
and construction costs.
Failure to approve current project by taxpayers could
result in delays in addressing school infrastructure
needs and potential increases in interest and
construction costs plus loss of the $36m in support
from the MSBA.
The net cost of the project after receipt of the
$36m from MSBA ($96m) is approximately the
same cost as bringing the existing structures to
code ($98m).
Commitment to 905 enrollment as basis for project
plan solidifies a long term commitment by the School
Committee to accepting greater numbers of CHOICE
students outside the 4 towns in the district whose
taxpayers fund the majority of the operating, capital
and debt service costs thereby requiring the 4 towns to
fund costs for students outside the district.
Voter rejection of the project would necessitate
resubmission of an alternative project to the
MSBA. There is no guarantee that a NRHS project
would be reconsidered by MSBA in the next few
years.
Provincetown and Truro (tuition students) are not part
of the region/district. While they have agreed to pay a
tuition fee, they have not committed to paying full
operating cost, capital or any debt service costs.
The $1.3 m in taxpayer funds spend on the
feasibility study for the project as approved by
MSBA cannot be recouped.
Brewster will send about 1/3 of the student population
but will pay for about 1/2 of the school project.
State commitment of this project will offset some
of the anticipated $132m costs of the project.
District taxpayers will annually bear the burden of
subsidizing major amounts of operating, capital and
debt service costs for tuition and CHOICE students
assuming no substantial growth in the student
population in the 4 towns of the district. For example,
CHOICE operating cost subsidies alone are estimated at
$3.6 million/year which, if directed at debt service for a
new school, would support $74 million in borrowing
with no tax increase versus today.
C:\Users\fsbri\Desktop\Final Subcommittee Report\PROSCONS92820HONEY with BY edits to first and last Cons
10/5/2020, 9:33 AM
Brewster Finance Committee
Liaison Guidelines
A. PURPOSE. Brewster Finance Committee members act as liaisons to Town boards,
committees, and commissions to facilitate effective communication between those
groups and the Finance Committee. As the primary role of the Finance Committee is to
review budgets and make recommendations to Town Meeting, the role of a Finance
Committee liaison will be primarily of a financial nature.
B. LIAISON ROLE. A Finance Committee Liaison will:
1. Establish a relationship with the chair of each public body to which they are assigned and be
available for consultation as needed.
2. Announce board, committee, and commission activities likely to be of interest to the Finance
Committee and public during “Finance Committee Liaison Reports” at Finance Committee,
facilitates communication and action, when feasible.
5. Serve as a resource to their assigned boards, committees, and commissions.
6. Not be a voting member of the board, committee, or commission unless so specified.
7. Speak as an individual Finance Committee member when participating in board, committee,
or commission meetings, and not representing the voice of the full Finance Committee.
8. Be included on the meeting agenda distribution list for the public bodies they are assigned to.
C. APPOINTMENTS.
1. Following reorganization of Finance Committee leadership at year-end (June) the Chair will
make liaison assignments.
2. Finance Committee members will be invited to request specific assignments and the Chair
will accommodate requests where possible.
3. When assignments are made, Finance Committee members are encouraged to contact the
chair of each assigned group to inform that chair of the liaison assignment.
Brewster Finance Committee
Liaison Assignments 2020 - 2021
Group Member
Select Board/Town Administrator Chairperson
Assessor’s Office
DPW (TA)
Police (TA)
COA Honey Pivirotto
Fire (TA)
Crosby Mansion
Planning Board Honey Pivirotto
Nauset Regional Schools** Bob Young
Brewster Elementary Schools **
Brewster Ladies Library**
Cape Cod Tech** Pete Dahl
Golf Dept. * Bill Meehan
Water Department *
Recreation Department (TA)
CPC Fund Committee
Human Services
Board of Health
Housing Trust
Energy Committee
Comprehensive Water Planning
Brewster Taxpayers Association
Non Resident Taxpayers Assoc.
Recycling Commission Frank Bridges
Building Needs Committee
All Citizens Access Committee
Capital Planning Committee Frank Bridges
Personnel Bylaw Committee OPEN /Mike Fitzgerald
Vision Planning
*Enterprise Fund - Require Liaison
** School Committee – Independent Board – Requires Liaison
Finance Committee Minutes
August 12, 2020 Page 1 of 7
TOWN OF BREWSTER
FINANCE COMMITTEE
Date: August 12, 2020 Time: 4:00 PM
VIRTUAL MEETING MINUTES
Present: Chair Pete Dahl, Vice Chair Frank Bridges, Bill Meehan, Honey Pivirotto, Bob Young, Andy Evans,
Robert Tobias
Also present: Mimi Bernardo, Finance Director; Peter Lombardi, Town Administrator; Faythe Ellis,
Community Preservation Committee; Mark O’Brien, Captain’s Golf Course; Anne O’Connell, Golf
Commission
Absent: Larissa Haynes
The Chair called the meeting to order at 4:00 pm.
Pursuant to Governor Baker’s March 12, 2020 Order Suspending Certain Provisions of the Open Meeting Law and his March 15 and March 23, 2020 Orders imposing strict
limits on the number of people that may gather in one place, this meeting will be conducted via remote participation to the greatest extent possible. Specific information and
the general guidelines for remote participation by members of the public and/or parties with a right and/or requirement to attend this meeting may be found on the Town’s
website at www.brewster-ma.gov. For this meeting, members of the public who wish to listen to the audio broadcast may do so via the Town of Brewster website at
http://livestream.brewster-ma.gov or on Channel 18. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure the public
can adequately access the proceedings in real time via technological means. The Town has established specific email addresses for each board and committee that will be
meeting remotely so that residents can send their comments in writing either before or during the meeting. In the event we are unable to live broadcast these meetings,
despite best efforts, we will post on the Town website an audio recording, transcript, or other comprehensive record of proceedings as soon as possible after the meeting at
http://tv.brewster-ma.gov. To submit public comment or questions to the Finance Committee prior to or during the meeting please email to fincommeeting@brewster-
ma.gov.
1.Presentation of Items 8 & 9 – Faythe Ellis
Faythe Ellis gave a brief overview of the Community Preservation Committee as an introduction before going
into the Article. She then went through the entire Article with the Committee taking questions at the end.
Bill asked what the current fund balance from Reserves is at this time. Faythe Ellis answered $2,552,247 which
does include FY21 revenues.
Bill Meehan MOVED to approve from Warrant Article 8, Subsection 1, Line A the sum of $117,650 to be
sourced from FY21 CPA estimated annual revenues. Frank Bridges second.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Chair Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
Bill Meehan MOVED to approve from Warrant Article 8, Section 2, Line A the sum of $49,500 to be sourced
from FY21 CPA estimated annual revenues as written in the Warrant. Frank Bridges second.
Approved:
VOTE:
Finance Committee Minutes
August 12, 2020 Page 2 of 7
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
Bill Meehan MOVED to approve from Warrant Article 8, Section 2B, Cape Housing Institute the sum of
$15,000 to be sourced from FY21 CPA estimated annual revenues as written in the Warrant. Frank Bridges
second.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
Bill Meehan MOVED to approve from the Warrant Article 8, Section 2C Community Housing the sum of
$53,150 to be sourced from FY21 CPA estimated annual revenues as written in the Warrant. Frank Bridges
second.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
Bill Meehan MOVED to approve from the Warrant Article 8, Section 3A Community Preservation Bonded
Debt Service, a payment of $271,695 to be sourced from FY21 CPA estimated annual revenues as written in
the Warrant. Frank Bridges second.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
Bill Meehan MOVED to approve from the Warrant Article 8, Section 3B Community Preservation Loan Debt
Service, a payment of $405,204. Sourced as follows; appropriate $316,553 from FY21 CPA estimated annual
revenues and transfer $88,651 from fund balance reserved for Open Space as written in the Warrant. Frank
Bridges second.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
Bill Meehan MOVED to approve from the Warrant Article 8, Section 4A Pleasant Bay Community Boating,
the sum of $25,000 sourced from CPA estimated annual revenues as written in the Warrant. Frank Bridges
second.
Andy asked about fundraising for this particular effort. Faythe Ellis referenced they approached the CPA
Committees from the different neighboring towns, but we do not require that.
Pete asked whether this was really sitting on the edge of Brewster property, where it sits directly on 3 other
towns’ properties. Peter Lombardi answered that that is the reason they sought funding from each of the
areas CPC’s b/c of their unique location on the water and how it would affect the whole region.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – no, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 6-yes 1-no
Finance Committee Minutes
August 12, 2020 Page 3 of 7
Bill Meehan MOVED to approve from the Warrant Article 8, Section 4B the sum of $425,000 for Stony Brook
Field Improvements sourced as an appropriation of $269,123 from FY21 CPA Annual Revenues and a
transfer of $155,877 from budgeted reserves from CPA totaling $425,000 as written in the Warrant.
Frank Bridges second.
Frank has reservations regarding this expenditure for a school where they are currently looking to consolidate
with another school. Faythe Ellis replied that the field is used not only by the Whitecaps, but by the school
children as well. Peter Lombardi said we did speak early on and decided the scope of the project should not
impact any current plans at that site in recognition of the fact that combining the schools wouldn’t preclude
any work in those areas or for the school building or immediate areas around the school if we were to move
forward with combining the schools.
Pete asked for a description of the improvements. Faythe Ellis went through several, such as: reshaped
entrance to the field for handicapped access, wider walkways for handicapped accessibility, new walkways to
prevent and control run-off, open plaza area, and larger stands with handicapped seating. Also in Phase 2,
some examples would be extended safety netting and extended safety fencing.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – no, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – abstain, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 5-yes 1-no 1-abstain
Bill Meehan MOVED to approve from the Warrant Article 8, Section 4C Administration Expense the sum of
$58,825 to be sourced from FY21 CPA estimated annual revenues as written in the Warrant. Frank Bridges
second.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
Faythe Ellis went through Item 9 as well, taking questions at the end.
Peter Lombardi added that with the State contribution of a Land Grant, the Town of Brewster would end up
contributing just over $102,000.
Bill Meehan MOVED to approve from the Warrant Article 9, the appropriation of the sum of $395,500 for
the acquisition of the land specified in the Warrant, sourced as $300,500 to be transferred from Community
Preservation Fund Balance Reserve, $70,000 to be transferred from the Water Enterprise Fund, and a
transfer from Community Preservation Fund Balance an additional $25,000 as written in the Warrant.
Frank Bridges second.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
2.Presentation and Vote Golf Budget – Mark O’Brien
Mark O’Brien presented the FY21 Golf Budget, taking questions at the end. Their projections are on the
conservative side. Page 3 has the monthly breakdowns of the budget request with actual revenues of July
Finance Committee Minutes
August 12, 2020 Page 4 of 7
2020 which exceeded projections by $55,000 in total, which means we are ahead. So far in August, our greens
fees were up $25,000 as compared to last year and cart fees are up $8,000 as compared to last year. The only
line items projected to be down are in the Pro Shop as numbers will be down inside. Driving Range is slightly
down as well. We are back to 9 minute intervals, down from the State Guidelines which because of the virus
were brought to 12 minute intervals.
Mark O’Brien spoke briefly on a Capital Budget moving forward with a request of $110,000 which includes a
study from the National Golf Foundation to help plan for the future and assess the Golf Plan viability going
forward. Also an Irrigation Systems Study which is coming down the road in the next few years to determine
upcoming plans and cost. We also requested an HVAC update in the restaurant area of the Club House. With
all of that, we would end up with a budget surplus of $137,435.
Anne O’Connell said the Golf Commission was in full support of this budget which was presented to them last
night.
Bill Meehan wanted to make it clear that Water and Golf support themselves, including Capital needs. We do
not take any tax revenue from the tax payers to fund either of these departments. Pete wanted to say that
any surplus stays in the Golf Reserve as this is an Enterprise Fund. There is no revenue sharing.
Anne O’Connell said the Golf Commission is working on a strategic plan for the next 10 years.
Bill Meehan MOVED to approve under the Warrant, Annual Town Meeting Article 6 to appropriate from the
Golf Fund, the sum of $3,503,565 for the purpose offsetting costs for FY21 as written in the Warrant.
Frank Bridges second.
Rob said it might be a good idea to give some background in the Warrant regarding the Golf Department
Enterprise Fund which might be beneficial for the voters. The rest of the Committee were in agreement.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
3.TA/FD Update
Bob Young made a request to have future TA/FD Updates have a standing report – what’s been adopted, what
the levels are, and what the trends are. Peter Lombardi answered they are happy to do that going forward and
said the OPEB contribution policy and financial reserve policy can be done more quickly. They have been
working through the report from the DOR, and it has been put aside for the interim, but after Town Meeting,
we can schedule that for a future meeting. Mimi Bernardo asked for it to come after the tax bills in the fall.
4.Discuss 9/15 Annual Town Meeting
Peter said we briefly discussed it last week, but the Select Board, based on priority of running a safe and
efficient a meeting as possible, has moved Town Meeting to Sat 9/12 at 10am at the Stony Brook field. Rain
date is Sunday the 13th at 1pm.
Finance Committee Minutes
August 12, 2020 Page 5 of 7
5.Review and Vote all Annual Town Meeting Articles
Article 1, Cape Cod Tech Budget as presented in the Warrant, coming in at $562,646.
Bill Meehan MOVED to amend the original motion according to our discussion to $562,646.
Frank Bridges second.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – abstain, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 6-yes 0-no 1-abstain
*Vote for Article 1C, Special Town Meeting is under Topics the Chair did not reasonably anticipate as the
information was not received until late last night.*
Article 2 Brewster Elementary School Budget
Operating Expenses have increased by 2.5%
Bill Meehan MOVED to approve in the Warrant, Article 2 the total expenditure of $10,039,996 as written in
the Warrant be raised and appropriated. Frank Bridges second.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – abstain, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 6-yes 0-no 1-abstain
Nauset Budget amounts were presented in February. Peter Lombardi said that the State House and Senate
have been working on FY21 State Aid, Chapter 70, and this was one question for the schools while developing
their budgets to see where the projections lead.
Bill Meehan MOVED to approve in the Warrant, Article 3, Nauset Regional School Operating Budget the
total sum of $11,599,042 to be raised and appropriated. Frank Bridges second.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – abstain, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 6-yes 0-no 1-abstain
Town Budget - Peter Lombardi reviewed the document where changes have been made. He said we have
discussed all of these in May and June and some in July. Line 122 Select Board/Town Administration (excel
spreadsheet) $489,999 due to eliminating the budget for a dedicated HR Department, and now has been
added back in.
Pete suggested moving forward here, Article 5 Town Administrator, to vote amended amounts as a block.
Items not previously voted on:
Registrar
Snow and Ice
Veteran’s Assistance
Transfer to Stabilization
Skipping Program as an amendment
Finance Committee Minutes
August 12, 2020 Page 6 of 7
Bill Meehan MOVED to approve the amount of $11,000 for Registrar.
MOVED to approve the amount of $161,817 for Snow and Ice.
MOVED to approve the amount of $140,979 for Veteran’s Assistance.
MOVED to approve the amount of $200,000 for Transfer to Stabilization.
Frank Bridges second.
Pete Dahl took the amendment to the Motion on the floor for the Skipping Program of $4,500.
Frank Bridges second.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – abstain, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 6-yes 0-no 1-abstain
Bill Meehan MOVED to amend the Finance Committee’s previous approval specific expense line items as
follows:
Select Board/Town Administrator to read $489,999.
Reserve Fund to read $125,000.
Legal Expenses to read $165,640.
Human Resources to read $0.
Information Technology to read $267,427.
Police Department to read $2,861,915.
Building Department to read $407,134.
DPW amount to read $1,933,043.
BOH amount to read $246,076.
Fuel Assistance to read $20,000.
Library to read $663,459.
Utilities to read $425,171.
Liability Insurance to read $445,000.
Frank Bridges second.
Frank would like to see another spreadsheet that shows original amounts on each category, and what it’s
amended to for such a large sum.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – abstain, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 6-yes 0-no 1-abstain
6.Audit Committee Discussion and Reappointment Vote - defer
7.NRHS Building Project Update, Sub-Committee Report - defer
8.Review of Finance Report to Town Meeting - defer
9.Review of Minutes - defer
10. Liaison Reports & Future Meeting Requests – next meeting September 2, 2020
Finance Committee Minutes
August 12, 2020 Page 7 of 7
11.Topics the Chair did not reasonably anticipate
*Article 1C of Special Town Meeting, unpaid bills Direct Energy $228.79 from Golf Department.
Bill Meehan MOVED to approve in the Warrant under Special Town Meeting Article 1C, Direct Energy, the
amount of $228.79 in unpaid bills as written in the Warrant. Frank Bridges second.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
Bill Meehan MOVED to adjourn the meeting at 6:45 PM. Frank Bridges second.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
Respectfully submitted, Beth Devine
Additional Information used at the meeting:
FY21 Budget Vote Tally a/o March 11, 2020
FinComm Votes with Revised Budgets a/o 8.12.2020
May 2020 ATM – STM 8.7.20
May 2020 ATM – STM 8.12.20
SB Memo re: Additional Recommended Changes to FY21 Operating Budget
SB Memo re: Tentative Agreement with Brewster Police Union
School Choice and NRHS Building Project
Finance Committee Minutes
September 2, 2020 Page 1 of 5
TOWN OF BREWSTER
FINANCE COMMITTEE
Date: September 2, 2020 Time: 4:00 PM
VIRTUAL MEETING MINUTES
Present: Chair Pete Dahl, Vice Chair Frank Bridges, Bill Meehan, Honey Pivirotto, Bob Young, Andy Evans,
Robert Tobias
Also present: Mimi Bernardo, Finance Director; Peter Lombardi, Town Administrator; Tom Fitzgibbons,
School Committee
Absent: Larissa Haynes
The Chair called the meeting to order at 4:00 pm.
Pursuant to Governor Baker’s March 12, 2020 Order Suspending Certain Provisions of the Open Meeting Law and his March 15 and March 23, 2020 Orders imposing strict
limits on the number of people that may gather in one place, this meeting will be conducted via remote participation to the greatest extent possible. Specific information and
the general guidelines for remote participation by members of the public and/or parties with a right and/or requirement to attend this meeting may be found on the Town’s
website at www.brewster-ma.gov. For this meeting, members of the public who wish to listen to the audio broadcast may do so via the Town of Brewster website at
http://livestream.brewster-ma.gov or on Channel 18. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure the public
can adequately access the proceedings in real time via technological means. The Town has established specific email addresses for each board and committee that will be
meeting remotely so that residents can send their comments in writing either before or during the meeting. In the event we are unable to live broadcast these meetings,
despite best efforts, we will post on the Town website an audio recording, transcript, or other comprehensive record of proceedings as soon as possible after the meeting at
http://tv.brewster-ma.gov. To submit public comment or questions to the Finance Committee prior to or during the meeting please email to fincommeeting@brewster-
ma.gov.
1.TA/FD Update
Peter Lombardi sent out some information regarding Free Cash updates prepared for this meeting and the
Annual Town Meeting. The number is higher than expected, and he went through the reasons why, due
mostly from Pandemic related factors over the past several months. There was certified for just over $4M for
the close of FY20, largely b/c we didn’t have a Town Meeting to appropriate some balance of FY19 available
Free Cash. Because of that, we were over by about $1M going into FY20. Revenues - high level property tax -
came in a little lower than budgeted, largely due to a timing issue with delaying the payment dates because of
the pandemic. We are now recouping those taxes in FY21. Also, hotel/motel/meals tax came in higher than
projected as well as licensing and permitting. Assuming Town Meeting approves all expenditures, we will have
about $2.6M in certified Free Cash. The historical target balance for Free Cash is $1M.
Andy asked about the target to carry forward year to year. Peter Lombardi answered that there has been an
historical practice of $800,000 to carry forward as a financial reserve policy. It then usually translates to
between $850,000-just over $1M carry over from one year to the next.
Approved:
VOTE:
Finance Committee Minutes
September 2, 2020 Page 2 of 5
2.Discuss 9/12 Annual Town Meeting
Peter Lombardi said we are expecting a robust turn out, however b/c of the Pandemic, there is some
uncertainty. There is a brief tutorial on the website for the public. Typical set up and layout under the tent
with appropriate social distancing and as usual Town Meeting with Officials up front, etc. The Committee will
be provided with specific directions before the meeting. We do need to have a quorum in attendance in case
there are any things to vote on at the time.
3.Discuss and Vote all Annual Town Meeting Articles
Article 7 Water Department Budget very slightly modified from what was presented to the Committee in
February.
Honey Pivirotto MOVED to approve Article 7 as printed in the Warrant to be appropriated from the Water
Department receipts.
Frank Bridges second.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
Article 10
6A Water Department Construction Account from $180,000 down now to $90,000 b/c there has been an
approved water rate increase for this year.
Honey Pivirotto MOVED to amend the previous vote on Article 10 6A Water Department in the sum of
$90,000 from Water Receipts.
Frank Bridges second.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
Article 8 A, B, C - Fire Department
$40,000 for PPE, turn-out gear
$50,000 for vehicle extrication equipment
$15,000 for scheduling equipment maintenance software
All proposed to be funded from Ambulance Receipts
Honey Pivirotto MOVED to approve Article 10, Item 8, Sub-Items 8A, 8B, and 8C as printed in the Warrant to
be funded from Ambulance Receipts.
Frank Bridges second.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
Finance Committee Minutes
September 2, 2020 Page 3 of 5
Collaborative effort with the Cape Cod Commission that is organized with all municipalities in Barnstable
County in the amount of $10,043.
Honey Pivirotto MOVED to approve Article 10, 5B as printed in the Warrant.
Frank Bridges second.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
Article 11 Consent Agenda Item to appropriate funds from the Cable Franchise Fee to cover the cost of
running multi cable access in the amount of $200,000 which is slightly down from other years.
Honey Pivirotto MOVED to approve Article 11 as written in the Warrant for appropriated Special Revenue
Fund Cable Franchise Fee of $200,000.
Frank Bridges second.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
Article 16 Police Union
Peter Lombardi recommended to hold off on a vote for this at this point.
Amounts are already held in the Town Budget. The Motion on the Town Meeting Floor will provide a specific
amount.
Peter Lombardi said these are the 4 Citizens Petitions 22-25 and Article 26 is a proposed Town Bylaw re
Private Road Betterment. We did reach out to each of the citizens petitioners and asked them to take out
the discussion and be placed on the Warrant for the next Town Meeting. ¾ of the petitioners agreed. Article
22, Commercial Single Use Plastic Water Bottle Ban remains on the Warrant. 23-26 are on Consent Agenda
to be referred to committee.
Bill is concerned that no one has looked to see how the private businesses in the Town would be effected,
and, given the pandemic, feels this is not the right time for this ban. Bob feels that education would be the
better way to go rather than put this into a Town Bylaw. Frank believes this should be sent to the Recycling
Committee to get their opinions before we vote on this item. Pete felt that in the midst of the pandemic,
petitioners having been requested to push out to the next Town Meeting because there should be much
discussion on this item. He would like to support this, but seeing this is during a pandemic, it seems
inappropriate at this time. Peter Lombardi said that oversight and enforcement would have to come from the
Town. As proposed it would be a local enforcement matter.
Honey Pivirotto MOVED to approve Article 22 Citizens Petition on Commercial Single Use Plastic Water
Bottle Ban.
Frank Bridges second.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – no, Frank Bridges – no, Bill Meehan – no, Honey Pivirotto – no, Andrew Evans –
no, Robert Tobias – no, Chair Pete Dahl– no.
The Committee voted: 0-yes 7-no
Finance Committee Minutes
September 2, 2020 Page 4 of 5
Pete wanted to add that had this been deferred and the timing different, he would have been much more able
to vote Yes on this Petition.
Honey Pivirotto MOVED to rescind our vote on Article 24.
Frank Bridges second.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
Honey Pivirotto MOVED to refer to committee Articles 23-26 as printed in the Town Warrant.
Frank Bridges second.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
4.NRHS Building Project Update, Sub-Committee Report
Frank wanted to make sure everyone was able to receive and open all of the PDFs sent out through the Packet
on the website because he couldn’t download that large of a file. The presentation is a rough draft focused
specifically on their August 26, 2020 Sub-Committee Meeting. What is not on the report is any final language
about COVID repercussions for the school going forward, as well as a list of the top positives for the project
and the top negatives.
Pete wanted to make sure everyone understands this is draft material, and if there are any specific questions,
they should be directed to Frank Bridges as the Sub-Committee Chair.
5.Review of Finance Report to Town Meeting
The report is already printed in the Warrant, no vote is necessary.
6.Review of Minutes from 7/15/20 & 8/5/20
Honey Pivirotto MOVED to approve the Minutes of 7/15/2020.
Frank Bridges second.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
Robert Tobias said page 3, under Article 3, comment is mis-stated – “and accounted for.” and under Article 4,
“Act of Congress” to be put in quotes.
Honey Pivirotto MOVED to approve the Minutes of 8/5/2020 as corrected.
Frank Bridges second.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
Finance Committee Minutes
September 2, 2020 Page 5 of 5
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
7. Liaison Reports & Future Meeting Requests
Bill reported that the Charter Committee has resumed its work. Next meeting will take place on Friday
morning.
Pete wants to look at all the liaison assignments to weed out where we need to have these Liaisons going
forward. Peter Lombardi said the Select Board voted on an adoption process for liaison assignments and this
document may be a good place to start as the Finance Committee makes its decision.
8. Topics the Chair did not reasonably anticipate - none
Honey Pivirotto MOVED to adjourn the meeting at 5:49 PM. Frank Bridges second.
Roll Call Vote: Bob Young – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andrew Evans
– yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
Respectfully submitted, Beth Devine
Packet of additional documents on website for public review.
Finance Committee Minutes
September 12, 2020 Page 1 of 2
TOWN OF BREWSTER
FINANCE COMMITTEE
Date: September 12, 2020 9:00 AM
MEETING MINUTES
Present: Vice Chair Pete Dahl, Andrew Evans, Robert Tobias, Bill Meehan, Honey Pivirotto, Frank Bridges,
Bob Young
Also present: Mimi Bernardo, Finance Director; Peter Lombardi, Town Administrator
Absent: Larissa Haynes
The Chair called the meeting to order at 9:00 AM.
Pursuant to Governor Baker’s March 12, 2020 Order Suspending Certain Provisions of the Open Meeting Law and his March 15 and March 23, 2020 Orders imposing strict
limits on the number of people that may gather in one place, this meeting will be conducted via remote participation to the greatest extent possible. Specific information and
the general guidelines for remote participation by members of the public and/or parties with a right and/or requirement to attend this meeting may be found on the Town’s
website at www.brewster-ma.gov. For this meeting, members of the public who wish to listen to the audio broadcast may do so via the Town of Brewster website at
http://livestream.brewster-ma.gov or on Channel 18. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, but every effort will be made to ensure the public
can adequately access the proceedings in real time via technological means. The Town has established specific email addresses for each board and committee that will be
meeting remotely so that residents can send their comments in writing either before or during the meeting. In the event we are unable to live broadcast these meetings,
despite best efforts, we will post on the Town website an audio recording, transcript, or other comprehensive record of proceedings as soon as possible after the meeting at
http://tv.brewster-ma.gov. To submit public comment or questions to the Finance Committee prior to or during the meeting please email to fincommeeting@brewster-
ma.gov.
1.Discuss and Vote on all Town Meeting Articles
Peter Lombardi presented an overview of recent union contract negotiations. In general,
it has been agreed that union contracts have been agreed upon for a period of one year,
and they include a one percent (1%) cost of living increase. These increases have all
been included in the budget and all have been considered and approved by the Select
Board. Pete Dahl commented that this was a commonsense approach to these
negotiations considering the current environment.
Article 16 in the Warrant covers the negotiated contract for Police. In addition to the 1%
COLA, it also includes and increase in pay for the Officer In Charge. The article seeks
approval for $20,000. Motion to approve was made by Frank Bridges and seconded by
Robert Tobias. The Committee voted 7-0-0 to approve.
Article 16 sought approval of $21,660.03 for SEIU contract. Frank Bridges moved to
approve, seconded by Robert Tobias. The Committee voted 7-0-0 to approve.
Approved:
VOTE:
Finance Committee Minutes
September 12, 2020 Page 2 of 2
Article 18 Covered the contract for OPEIU in the amount of $20,645.80, including a one
percent (1%) increase in the rate for top step. Frank Bridges moved to approve, Robert
Tobias seconded. The Committee voted 7-0-0 to approve.
The contract for Brewster Ladies Library in the amount of $3,862.00 in Article 19 was
moved by Frank Bridges, Robert Tobias seconding. The Committee voted 7-0-0 to
approve.
Article 20 in the Warrant covered the negotiated contract with non-union town
employees. The amount requested was $142,480.06. Peter Lombardi explained that this
amount included certain equity adjustments. He also informed the Committee that this
contract covers in excess of fifty employees. The Article was moved by Frank Bridges,
seconded by Robert Tobias and voted 7-0-0 by the Committee.
There being no unanticipated topics, Frank Bridges moved to adjourn. Robert Tobias
seconded and the Committee voted 7-0-0 to adjourn at 9:40 AM.
Respectfully submitted by Bill Meehan, Clerk of the Finance Commitee