HomeMy Public PortalAbout12.15.21 FinCom Packet
Town of Brewster Finance Committee
2198 Main St., Brewster, MA 02631
fincommeeting@brewster-ma.gov
(508) 896-3701
MEETING AGENDA
Remote Participation Only
December 15, 2021 at 6:00 PM
This meeting will be conducted by remote participation pursuant to Chapter 20 of the Acts of 2021,. 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 meeting may be viewed by: Live broadcast (Brewster Government TV Channel 18), Livestream (livestream.brewster-
ma.gov), or Video recording (tv.brewster-ma.gov).
Meetings may be joined by:
1. Phone: Call (929) 436-2866 or (301) 715-8592. Webinar ID: 862 2956 9696 Passcode: 565167
To request to speak: Press *9 and wait to be recognized.
2. Zoom Webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86229569696?pwd=MUhJNGpoU3VocTZ0cTU0VGpYcWdVQT09
Passcode: 565167
To request to speak: Tap Zoom “Raise Hand” button or type “Chat” comment with your name and address, then
wait to be recognized.
Finance
Committee
Harvey (Pete) Dahl
Chair
Frank Bridges
Vice Chair
William Meehan
Clerk
Andrew Evans
William Henchy
Alex Hopper
Honey Pivirotto
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. Recording Statement
5. Public Announcements and Comment: Members of the public may address the Finance Committee on
matters not on the meeting’s agenda for a maximum 3-5 minutes at the Chair’s discretion. Under the Open Meeting
Law, the Finance Committee is unable to reply but may add items presented to a future agenda.
6. Town Administrator/Finance Director Report
7. Budget Calendar – Discussion and Approval
8. Review and Appoint Liaison Assignments
9. Nauset Regional Public Schools Budget – Discussion and Strategic Direction
10. Liaison Reports
11. Review and Approval of Minutes
12. Request for agenda items for future meetings.
13. Matters Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chair
14. Next Finance Committee Meeting
15. Adjournment
Date Posted: Date Revised: Received by Town Clerk:
12/13/21
Fincom Meeting & Budget Schedule FY 2021-2022
as of:12.08.2021
Meeting Schedule
Month Date Day Time Meeting Type
December 13 Monday 6:00 PM
Joint Meeting - SB
& Fincom
December 15 Wed 6:00 PM Fincom
January 5th Wed 6:00 PM Fincom
January 19 Wed 6:00 PM
February 9 Wed 6:00PM Joint Meeting - SB
& Fincom
March 23 Wed 6:00 PM Fincom
May 2 Mon 6:00 PM
Topics
FY23-27 Budget Forecast and FY23 Budget Guidelines
Liaison Assignments, NRSD Budget Discission
May not be necessary
FY23 Town Operating Budget - Dept Head
Presentations
Deadline for Recommendations to be printed in Warrant
Town Meeting
Comment
Remote - Only
Remote - Only
Remote - Only
Remote - Only
Deadline for Recommendations to be printed in Warrant
Stony Brook Elementary School
Town Meeting - Special 09.25.21
Warrant Article Checklist
Special Town Meeting
Article Topic Vote Date
1 Bessie Cartway 7-0-0 8/25/2021
2 Pond Property 7-0-0 8/25/2021
3 Expense from FC 7-0-0 8/25/2021
Regular Town Meeting
Article Topic Vote Date
SB Vote
5-0-0
5-0-0
5-0-0
Brewster Finance Committee
Liaison Assignments 2021 – 2022
Group Member
Select Board/Town Administrator Pete Dahl – Chairperson 1
Board of Assessors Bob Young 1
COA Honey Pivirotto 1
Crosby Mansion Andy Evans 1
Planning Board Honey Pivirotto 2
Nauset Regional Schools** Bob Young 2/Volunteer
Brewster Elementary Schools ** Robert Tobias 1
Brewster Ladies Library** Andy Evans 2
Cape Cod Tech** Pete Dahl 2
Golf Dept. * Bill Meehan 1
Water Department * Bill Henchy 1
Community Preservation Committee Alex Hopper 1
Human Services
Board of Health Alex Hopper 2
Housing Trust Robert Tobias 2
Energy Committee
Non Resident Taxpayers Assoc. Pete Dahl 3
Recycling Commission Frank Bridges 1
Capital Planning Committee Frank Bridges 2
Personnel Bylaw Committee OPEN
Vision Planning Honey Pivirotto 3
New Committees
Bay Property Advisory Committee To be discussed after formal organization
from SB
Pond Property Advisory Committee
*Enterprise Fund - Require Liaison
** School Committee – Independent Board – Requires Liaison
Inactive Committees
Comprehensive Water Planning
Brewster Taxpayers Association
Building Needs Committee
All Citizens Access Committee
DPW (TA)
Police (TA)
Fire (TA)
Recreation Department (TA)
FY22-23 Select Board Strategic Plan
FINAL 10.18.21
Vision Building Block Goal #Goal Description Timeline Vision Plan FY21-22 SB Plan Primary Responsible Party Other Key Stakeholders
Cape Cod Sea Camps SC-1 Seek to acquire Sea Camps properties for public access and use, including property inspections and
all necessary coordination with legal counsel and relevant consultants
FY22 X Town Administration Select Board; Finance Team
SC-2 Complete building inventories and develop/implement short-term property management plan FY22 Town Administration Public Safety Team; Human Resources
SC-3 Develop charge and appoint Sea Camps Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committees FY22 Town Administration & Select
Board N/A
SC-4 Determine interim public access/use plans and implement as soon as possible FY22 X Town Administration & Select
Board
Sea Camps Comprehensive Plan Advisory
Committees & Staff Liaisons
SC-5 Develop Scope of Work for Comprehensive Plans (to include analyses of both Sea Camps parcels as
well as Town Hall, Council on Aging, Eddy School, Spruce Hill, and Robinson properties), engage the
services of an interdisciplinary team of professionals to assist the committees, and launch
community planning processes
FY22-23
X Town Administration & Select
Board
Sea Camps Comprehensive Plan Advisory
Committees & Staff Liaisons
SC-6 Continue to explore potential short- and long-term partnerships that may mitigate acquisition
costs or operating expenses and may provide enhanced services, programs, or amenities to
residents
FY22-23
X Town Administration & Select
Board
Sea Camps Comprehensive Plan Advisory
Committees & Staff Liaisons
Community Character CC-1 Develop 5-year Community Preservation Plan soliciting input from key stakeholders, consider
potential changes to fund allocation formula, and establish a framework for vetting regional
project funding requests FY22 X Community Preservation
Committee
Select Board; Finance Committee; Open
Space Committee; Affordable Housing Trust;
Historical Commission; Recreation
Commission
CC-2 Identify and examine potential local tax relief policy options
FY22-23 X X Tax Relief Working Group
Select Board; Finance Committee; Board of
Assessors; Brewster Association of Part-Time
Residents
CC-3 Provide education and training to Town officials and residents about issues of diversity, equity, and
inclusion FY22-23 X Town Administration & Select
Board
Affordable Housing Trust; All Citizens Access
Committee; Police Chief; Human Resources
Open Space OS-1 Seek adoption of Drummer Boy Park Master Plan, develop Management Plan, and implement both
(in phases) in coordination with Wing Island boardwalk project FY22-23 X X Town Administration
Select Board; Drummer Boy Park Advisory
Committee; Department of Natural
Resources; Recreation Department;
Department of Public Works
OS-2 Consider need for and structure of new Parks & Recreation Department responsible for
management of Drummer Boy Park, Sea Camps, and other existing recreational
amenities/programs
FY23 Town Administration
Select Board; Recreation Commission & Dept;
Natural Resources Commission & Dept;
Department of Public Works
Housing H-1 Identify Affordable Housing Trust operating/capital needs and develop funding plan FY22 X X Affordable Housing Trust &
Finance Team Select Board; Finance Committee
H-2 Complete Housing Production Plan
FY22 X X Housing Coordinator
Town Administration; Housing Partnership;
Affordable Housing Trust; Select Board;
Planning Board
H-3 Develop affordable housing off Millstone Road
FY22-23 X X Affordable Housing Trust
Select Board; Community Preservation
Committee; Town Administration; Housing
Coordinator
Local Economy LE-1 Launch electronic permitting platform FY22 X X Town Administration IT Director; Building Dept; Health Dept;
Planning Dept
LE-2 Host semi-annual roundtable with Town officials, Chamber of Commerce, and local business
community to build on increased outreach and communication developed during pandemic FY22 X Town Administration Select Board
Coastal Management CM-1 Complete design and permitting of Wing Island boardwalk FY22-23 X X Town Administration Natural Resources Commission & Dept
1
FY22-23 Select Board Strategic Plan
FINAL 10.18.21
Vision Building Block Goal #Goal Description Timeline Vision Plan FY21-22 SB Plan Primary Responsible Party Other Key Stakeholders
Water Resources WR-1 Develop clear timeline/plan for moving water quality initiatives forward and evaluate Town
benefits of participating in Cape Cod and Islands Water Protection Fund FY22 X X Water Quality Working Group Select Board
WR-2 Develop and propose stormwater management bylaw (MS4 permit)FY22 X X Stormwater Working Group Planning Board; Select Board
Community Infrastructure CI-1 Complete Hazard Mitigation Plan
FY22 X X Town Administration
Planning Board & Dept; Dept of Public Works;
Natural Resources Dept; Water Dept; Fire
Dept; Health Dept; Water Dept; Building Dept
CI-2 Complete comprehensive assessment of Captains Golf operations, finances, and capital needs, and
determine feasibility of transitioning to enterprise fund FY22 X Finance Team Select Board; Golf Commission & Dept;
Finance Committee
CI-3 Complete School Consolidation Feasibility Study and work with key stakeholders to determine
appropriate next steps in coordination with Sea Camps Master Planning process FY22-23 X Nauset School Officials
Town Administration; Select Board; Sea
Camps Comprehensive Plan Advisory
Committees & Staff Liaisons
CI-4 Solicit resident feedback on Millstone Road project and develop Road Capital Prioritization Plan FY22-23 X X Town Administration & Dept of
Public Works Select Board; Capital Planning Committee
CI-5 Continue hydration station installation project FY22-23 Town Administration Select Board; Recycling Committee; Water
Commission & Dept; Facilities Manager
CI-6 Develop net zero energy roadmap FY23 Town Administration Energy Committee & Manager; Facilities
Manager
Governance G-1 Enhance school budget information and clarity by working diligently with the Nauset Regional
School Committee, new Nauset Regional School Administration, Brewster School Committee, and
Brewster Finance Committee FY22 X Select Board & Finance
Committee
Nauset Regional School Committee; Brewster
School Committee; Nauset School
Administration; Town Administration;
Finance Team
G-2 Launch new, more user friendly Town website FY22 X X Website Working Group Town Administration
G-3 Develop and adopt new Select Board Policy on Board/Committee Appointments FY22 Select Board Town Administration
G-4 Determine merits of making longer-term changes to traditional municipal service models, including
extent of continued expanded remote participation in committee meetings – applying lessons
learned from pandemic
FY22 X Town Administration Select Board; Dept Heads
G-5 Continue to implement Vision Plan and develop Local Comprehensive Plan
FY22-23 X X Vision Planning Committee
Planning Board; Town Planner; Select Board;
Town Administration; Affordable Housing
Trust; Open Space Committee
G-6 Develop and launch new operating and capital budget platform to improve accessibility and
transparency of Town finances FY22-23 X X Finance Team Select Board; Finance Committee
G-7 Support new Human Resource Department in: 1. Implementing findings from HR audit 2.
Continuing to monitor and support employee wellness 3. Creating programs to recognize Town
volunteers for their service to the community 4. Examining need to increase organizational
capacity in certain key areas to meet expanding service and project demands
FY22-23 X X Town Administration Select Board; Human Resources
G-8 Develop and implement comprehensive strategy regarding use of American Rescue Plan Act funds FY22-23 Town Administration Finance Team; Select Board
2
Town of Brewster July 14, 2021
Finance Committee
Select Board Strategic Priorities
The Nauset Regional School District and Brewster School budgets equal about 50% of Town of
Brewster’s total operating expenses of about $44 million. It is imperative that the Select Board,
Finance Committee and the general public receive the highest level of transparency possible
with regard to the schools’ financial reporting.
The Finance Committee urges the Select Board to prioritize and re-commit to working diligently
with the Nauset Regional School Committee, the new Nauset Regional School Administration,
the Brewster School Committee and the Brewster Finance Committee to enhance the
transparency of the information provided regarding the schools’ budgets and operating
expenses. Indeed, the Finance Committee would be pleased to have a joint meeting with the
Select Board to discuss this further and work together on this critical topic.
The NRSD has consistently requested and received 2.5% budget increases every year. This has
been the case regardless of inflation or enrollment changes. The chart shows that since FY10
Total Enrollment is down 3.2% and the four Member Towns’ Enrollment is down 15%. Total
Enrollment has been buoyed by a 37.2% increase in Choice Enrollment.
Despite the decline in Total and Member Towns Enrollment the NRSD Operating Expense
budget is up 36.1% gross, and is up 21.4% on an inflation adjusted basis.
For FY22, the NRSD budget included $1,352,214 in “Reserve for Negotiation” to achieve its 2.5%
increase.
For FY22, the Brewster Schools budget included $459,527 in “Reserve for Negotiation” to
achieve its 2.5% increase.
We should receive transparency around exactly how much of this reserve was utilized when
negotiations were finalized so that we can: (1) understand how much excess funding there was
for this line item, (2) where this excess funding was utilized, and (3) incorporate this excess into
our review of the NRSD and Brewster Schools FY23 budget requests.
-3.2%
-15.0%
36.1%
37.2%
21.4%
-30%
-20%
-10%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
FY10 FY11 FY12 FY13 FY14 FY15 FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20
NSRD Change in Enrollment and Budget
Indexed to FY10
Total Enrollment Member Towns Enrollment
Choice Enrollment OpXP budget
Infl. Adj. OpXP Budget
Source: NRSD, DESE
NAUSET REGIONAL SCHOOLS Oct-21
ENROLLMENT TRENDS
HIGH As of Live in Live in Live in School OTHER
SCHOOL 1-Oct District Truro Provincetown Choice IN STUDENTS TOTAL
2021 618 60 20 156 854
2020 596 60 23 198 877
2019 616 60 26 219 921
2018 624 63 29 228 944
2017 603 48 37 236 924
2016 642 52 40 211 945
2015 676 52 44 209 981
2014 687 50 40 197 974
2013 706 61 43 214 1024
2012 695 52 33 190 970
2011 696 56 28 185 965
2010 737 50 32 168 987
2009 800 40 NA 153 993
2007 880 42 NA 119 1041
MIDDLE As of Live in Live in Live in School OTHER
SCHOOL 1-Oct District Truro Provincetown Choice IN STUDENTS TOTAL
2021 450 26 4 56 536
2020 488 32 3 60 583
2019 480 41 4 64 589
2018 445 43 5 90 583
2017 419 38 7 89 553
2016 424 31 9 77 541
2015 437 31 9 67 544
2014 463 37 7 53 560
2013 489 22 7 65 583
2012 490 19 8 73 590
2011 490 27 8 46 571
2010 477 24 10 43 554
2009 489 23 55 567
2007 460 14 31 505
AS OF OCTOBER 1, 2021 Students Attending Nauset High School Under School Choice by Home Town TOTAL
Barnstable Bourne Chatham Dennis Harwich Sandwich Yarmouth Falmouth Mashpee
28 2 15 24 44 3 37 1 2 156
AS OF OCTOBER 1, 2021 Students Attending Nauset High School - Tuitioned In
Gr. 9 Gr. 10 Gr. 11 Gr. 12 Total
Truro 18 14 14 14 60
Provincetown 5 5 4 6 20
(Barnstable includes: Centerville, Marston Mills, Osterville, Sagamore and Barnstable)
AS OF OCTOBER 1, 2021 Students Attending Nauset Middle School Under School Choice by Home Town
Barnstable Chatham Dennis Harwich Sandwich Yarmouth Provincetown Truro Total
11 2 12 12 1 18 4 14 74
AS OF OCTOBER 1, 2021 Students Attending Nauset Middle School - Tuitioned In
Gr. 7 Gr. 8 Total
Truro 6 8 14
AS OF OCTOBER 1, 2021 Nauset Resident Students Attending Other High Schools
Lighthouse Sturgis Tech
2021 82 14 100
2020 64 10 92
2019 46 12 76
2018 53 15 77
2017 67 16 88
2016 67 17 81
2015 64 19 86
2014 62 23 69
2013 64 25 72
2012 69 23 72
2011 86 10 80
AS OF OCTOBER 1, 2020 International Student Program
2021 0
2020 0
2019 2
2018 3 2 Chinese, 1 German
2017 4 2 Chinese, 1 Indonesian, 1 German
2016 5 2 Brazil, 3 Chinese
2015 17 1 German, 2 Brazilians, 1 Spanish, 1 Norwegian and 12 Chinese
2014 17 8 Chinese, 2 Brazilian, 2 French, 3 Spanish, 1 Norwegian and 1 German
2013 11 3 Chinese, 2 Italian, 4 Brazilians, 1 German, 1 Monaco
2012 6 2 French, 3 Chinese, 1 Belgium
Nauset Regional School District
District Enrollment
Comparison 10-1-2021 and 10-1-2020 (2020 in red)
Elementary
School PK K 01 02 03 04 05 Total Difference
Eastham Elementary School 22 16 22 34 30 21 28 28 29 28 34 32 31 34 196 193 -3
Eddy Elementary School 0 0 0 0 53 72 80 57 79 85 212 214 2
Orleans Elementary School 0 16 30 24 18 29 23 32 27 36 29 38 38 175 165 -10
Stony Brook Elementary 20 27 67 63 64 64 62 71 0 0 0 213 225 12
Wellfleet Elementary School 0 14 22 16 17 24 13 15 23 21 18 15 20 105 113 8
Elementary Totals 42 43 119 150 134 120 143 135 129 150 171 136 163 176 901 910 9
Middle
Town 06 07 08 Total Difference
Brewster 75 70 77 71 77 75 229 216 -13
Eastham 29 30 33 27 41 30 103 87 -16
Orleans 28 33 33 33 30 35 91 101 10
Provincetown 0 1
1111
2 1 1 2 3 4 1
Truro 5 12 9 6
6
18 8 32 26 -6
Wellfleet 19 15 14 16 32 15 65 46 -19
Choice 20 13 26 17 14 26 60 56 -4
Middle School Totals 176 174 194 171 213 191 583 536 -47
High School
Town 09 10 11 12 SP Total Difference
Brewster 70 66 73 74 66 69 65 66 6 6 280 281 1
Eastham 29 39 28 27 33 24 31 31 1 0 122 121 -1
Orleans 30 36 25 27 34 26 23 35 1 0 113 124 11
Provincetown 4 5 6 5 7 4 6 6 0 23 20 -3
Truro 15 18 15 14 11 14 19 11 3 60 60
Wellfleet 12 30 17 11 28 18 24 33 0 81 92 11
Choice 37 32 49 35 42 46 70 43 0 0 198 156 -42
High School Totals 197 226 213 193 221 201 238 225 8 9 877 854 -23
Summary 2021 2022 Difference
Preschool 42 43 1
Elementary 859 867 8
Region 1084 1068 -16
School Choice 258 212 -46
Truro 92 86 -6
Provincetown 26 24 -2
Grand Total 2361 2300 -61
Summary 2021 2022 Difference
Preschool 42 43 1
Elementary 859 867 8
Region 1084 1068 -16
School Choice 258 212 -46
Truro 92 86 -6
Provincetown 26 24 -2
Grand Total 2361 2300 -61
NOTE:
Truro – students in Gr. 6 are
school choice (Truro has a K-6
elem. school)
Students in Grades 7 & 8 are
tuition students
Provincetown – students in
Grades 6, 7 & 8 are school
choice (Provincetown has a K-8
school)
Students in Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
are tuition students
The NRSD has consistently requested and received 2.5% budget increases every year. This has
been the case regardless of inflation or enrollment changes. The chart shows that since FY10
Total Enrollment is down 3.2% and the four Member Towns’ Enrollment is down 15%. Total
Enrollment has been buoyed by a 37.2% increase in Choice Enrollment.
Despite the decline in Total and Member Towns Enrollment the NRSD Operating Expense
budget is up 36.1% gross, and is up 21.4% on an inflation adjusted basis.
For FY22, the NRSD budget included $1,352,214 in “Reserve for Negotiation” to achieve its 2.5%
increase.
For FY22, the Brewster Schools budget included $459,527 in “Reserve for Negotiation” to
achieve its 2.5% increase.
We should receive transparency around exactly how much of this reserve was utilized when
negotiations were finalized so that we can: (1) understand how much excess funding there was
for this line item, (2) where this excess funding was utilized, and (3) incorporate this excess into
our review of the NRSD and Brewster Schools FY23 budget requests.
-3.2%
-15.0%
36.1%
37.2%
21.4%
-30%
-20%
-10%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
FY10 FY11 FY12 FY13 FY14 FY15 FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20
NSRD Change in Enrollment and Budget
Indexed to FY10
Total Enrollment Member Towns Enrollment
Choice Enrollment OpXP budget
Infl. Adj. OpXP Budget
Source: NRSD, DESE
Town of Brewster
2198 Main Street
Brewster, MA 02631-1898
Phone: (508) 896-3701
Fax: (508) 896-8089
Office of the:
Select Board
Town Administrator
MINUTES OF THE SELECT BOARD REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
DATE: September 13, 2021
TIME: 6:00 PM
PLACE: Remote Participation
REMOTE PARTICIPANTS: Chair Bingham, Selectperson Whitney, Selectperson Chaffee, Selectperson
Hoffmann, Selectperson Chatelain, Town Administrator Peter Lombardi, Assistant Town Administrator
Donna Kalinick, James Gallagher, Frank Bridges, Alex Hopper, Anne O’Connell, Bill Meehan, Andrew Evans,
Pete Dahl, Robert Tobias, Robert Young, Jay Packett, Mimi Bernardo, Andrew Johnson, Wyn Morton, Jeff
O’Dell, David Valcourt, John Kissida, Colin Walsh, Richard Singer, Barry Frank, Andrea Johnson
Call to Order & Declaration of a Quorum, Meeting Participation Statement and Recording Statement Chair
Bingham called the meeting to order at 6:00pm. A quorum was declared, all Select Board members
present were announced, Chair Bingham read the meeting participation and recording statements.
Public Announcements and Comments
Chair Bingham read the Proclamation on National Suicide month.
Town Administrator’s Report
Peter Lombardi provided a brief report regarding Covid-19, the county positive case rates continue to be
elevated, well after the containment of the Provincetown cluster that caused the initial spike. In Brewster
our cases remain elevated as well, we see about 10-15 new cases each week, which has been consistent for
the past few months. Adding that of those new cases, about half of them are in fully vaccinated residents.
Several weeks ago, a mask advisory was put in place in Town Buildings which remains in place. A Statewide
mask mandate in schools was imposed by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
through at least through October 1, 2021.
Consent Agenda
Meeting Minutes: June 2, August 9, and August 23, 2021
Request for Permit Fee Waivers: Electrical Permit Fees for 27 affordable housing units, Serenity
Apartments Phase 2 Renovations (Brattan Industries, Inc.); Gas and Electrical Permit Fees for 33
housing units in Buildings 30 and 40 at Brewster Woods (Gray Co.)
Acceptance of Gift: Natural Resources Department
Appointments: Probationary Police Office & Keeper of the Lockup- Tyler M. Dow; Council on
Aging-Janet Stolzer; Golf Commission-Rob David; Old Kings Highway Historic District
Committee- Tom Turketta (builder)
Drummer Boy Park Facility Use Approval: 2 Wedding Ceremonies
BoS 9.13.2021 www.brewster-ma.gov Page 1 of 10
Doc ID: 1785779aa81e1a33a5b30e8884ea1d3ca343deb0
Town of Brewster
2198 Main Street
Brewster, MA 02631-1898
Phone: (508) 896-3701
Fax: (508) 896-8089
Office of the:
Select Board
Town Administrator
Facility Use Approval; Community Service Beach Clean up
Request for One-Day Liquor Licenses: Brewster Chamber of Commerce Inc., Brewster
Sportsman’s Club, and Chatham Bars Inn Farm
Special Event Application, One-Day Liquor & One-Day Entertainment License: Camp Mitton
One Day Entertainment License: POAH Communities/Kings Landing
Selectperson Chaffee commented that she is prepared to vote in support of all the items but will abstain
from consideration of the appointment of Tom Turketta to the Old Kings Highway Historic District
Committee since he does work for her family. Selectperson Hoffmann would vote in favor of all items, would
like to note the contingencies in the Special Event application for Camp Mitton, in terms of required
completion of permits and inspections with other Departments. Selectperson Chatelain moved to approve
the consent agenda. Selectperson Whitney second. A roll call vote was taken. Selectperson Hoffmann-yes,
Selectperson Chaffee-yes (with one abstain on the appointment), Selectperson Whitney-yes, Selectperson
Chatelain-yes, Chair Bingham-yes. The Board vote was 5-Yes, 0-No.
Refer Vesper Pond Neighborhood Private Road Betterment Petition to Planning Board
Mr. Lombardi stated this project has been long in the making, recently a vote was taken by the residents in
the neighborhood. There had been an earlier vote that triggered some of the bylaw amendments that were
approved in May at Town Meeting, but they went back and had a follow up vote, and the results were
supportive in moving forward. Submitted all the required materials, this is the next step, for the Select Board
to refer the matter to the Planning Board, who then holds a hearing and makes a determination to approve
the plan as presented, to modify the plan or deny the plan. From there, a second confirmatory proxy vote is
taken where the residents will again have the opportunity to vote again. From there assuming the votes are
secured, it would move forward for consideration at Town meeting. We had hoped to bring it forward by the
November Town meeting, but with the delays in our bylaw amendments by the Attorney Generals office,
this pushed the whole timeline back. The plan is to bring this to Town Meeting in May.
Selectperson Chaffee moved to refer the Vesper Pond Neighborhood Private Road Betterment
Petition to the Planning Board. Selectperson Chatelain second. A roll call vote was taken.
Selectperson Whitney-yes, Selectperson Whitney-yes, Selectperson Chaffee-yes, Selectperson
Hoffmann-yes, Chair Bingham-yes. The Board vote was 5-Yes, 0-No.
Refer Proposed Amendments to the Water Quality Protection District Bylaw to Planning Board
Selectperson Hoffmann moved that we refer the proposed amendments to the Water Quality Protection
District Bylaw back to the Planning Board. Selectperson Chatelain second. A roll call vote was taken.
Selectperson Chaffee-yes, Selectperson Chatelain-yes, Selectperson Hoffmann-yes, Selectperson
Whitney-yes, Chair Bingham-yes. The Board vote was 5-Yes, 0-No.
Discuss and Vote on Upcoming Public Meeting Schedule/ Format for Town Committees
BoS 9.13.2021 www.brewster-ma.gov Page 2 of 10
Doc ID: 1785779aa81e1a33a5b30e8884ea1d3ca343deb0
Town of Brewster
2198 Main Street
Brewster, MA 02631-1898
Phone: (508) 896-3701
Fax: (508) 896-8089
Office of the:
Select Board
Town Administrator
Mr. Lombardi reminded us that in June we decided on an approach with Boards and Committees that
many would continue to meet remotely, some were given the opportunity to meet in person or hybrid
participation for July, August and September. Looking forward to October and with the current status of
Covid, we are prorposing to continue with the current format through at least October with a revisit in
November. Generally speaking, all but a few Committees are meeting remote. Selectperson Chatelain
acknowledged the additional work that remote meeting causes the Town staff and thanked them for their
patience and diligence in getting it done. Mr. Lombardi addressed the technology equipment that is to be
installed in Room B, we are still waiting to hear when that will be installed from the contractor. Selectperson
Chaffee noted what a challenge this has been and noted that she received the latest Barnstable County Covid
data that shows we are now in wave 4 of the pandemic; this type of meeting management is still required.
Selectperson Chatelain moved to adopt the virtual meeting format as proposed for the month of October.
Selectperson Whitney second. A roll call vote was taken. Selectperson Hoffmann-yes, Selectperson Chaffee-
yes, Selectperson Whitney-yes, Selectperson Chatelain-yes, Chair Bingham-yes. The Board vote was 5-Yes, 0-
No.
6:15 Public Hearing: Fiscal Year 2022 Tax Rate Classification Hearing, Discussion, and Vote- Deputy
Collector James Gallagher
Mr. Gallagher presented the FY22 Tax Rate classification hearing and acknowledged the Board of
Assessors. Some of the key points of the presentation are:
This annual hearing determines whether to shift a portion of the tax burden from one
class of property to another.
The final assessed values by class were submitted to Department of Revenue (DOR) and approved
on August 18th, 2021.
The maximum allowable levy is calculated by taking levy limit, adjusted by amended growth
and increased by 2.5%, then add FY22 new growth, add debt exclusions and Cape Cod
Commission assessments. The total maximum allowable levy for FY22 is roughly $38 million.
The FY22 excess levy capacity is just under $20,000. This is the difference between the actual
levy and the maximum levy.
Overall total assessed value for FY22 is just over $4.8 billion, this is an increase of value of 13.7%
over the FY21 total.
The largest class is residential with a value of $4.5 billion. The increase in value is due to
the improving real estate market and new property growth.
This fiscal year was a recertification year with the DOR. All property sales were reviewed from
the previous calendar year and the assessment to sale ratios was analyzed.
Real estate has changed dramatically in calendar year 2020. In the beginning properties were
selling for 5% over assessed value, due to the effects of the pandemic, by the end of the year
properties were selling for 30% over assessed value.
BoS 9.13.2021 www.brewster-ma.gov Page 3 of 10
Doc ID: 1785779aa81e1a33a5b30e8884ea1d3ca343deb0
Town of Brewster
2198 Main Street
Brewster, MA 02631-1898
Phone: (508) 896-3701
Fax: (508) 896-8089
Office of the:
Select Board
Town Administrator
For the Assessing Departments analysis for the 2020 calendar year, the result was a general
adjustment of 15% in assessed land and building values of residential properties for the fiscal year.
Levy percentages in estimated tax rates were presented:
o Residential class makes up 94.5% of the levy
o Commercial, Industrial and Personal Property make up the remaining 5.5%
Based on the total assessed value and estimated tax levy the single tax rate would be $7.85
per thousand, a decrease of $.73 per thousand from FY21, an 8.5% decrease in tax rate.
Tax rate impact on median single-family home:
Fiscal Year 2021 Fiscal Year 2022
Home Value $461,500 $532,000
Tax Rate $8.58 per thousand $7.85 per thousand (estimated)
Tax Bill $3,959.67 $4,176.20 (estimated)
Tax Levy shifting options- The Board of Assessors recommend maintaining a single tax rate
amongst the property classes and not to adopt any discounts or exemptions.
o Option 1: Split Tax Rate
Would shift the tax burden from the residential and open space class (RO) of property
to the commercial, industrial, and personal property class (CIP).
A shift of less than 1 results in residential properties subsidizing commercial properties.
A shift of greater than 1 result in commercial properties subsidizing
residential properties.
A split tax rate has a much greater effect on commercial property than
residential property.
Board of Assessors recommend a residential factor of 1, which is no shift or split tax rate.
o Option 2: Open Space Discount
This option would reduce the open space tax rate and increase the residential tax rate.
The assessors do not currently assess open space properties in the Open Space
Class, so this discount is not currently available.
Open space parcels are generally assessed in the residential class or are tax exempt.
In FY2021 only 17 of the 351 Mass communities used the open space class, only
1 of those 17 adopted an open space discount (Nantucket).
The Board of Assessors recommend not to grant an Open Space Discount.
o Option 3: Residential Exemption
Increases the residential tax rate, a reduction of value is applied to primary residents
and the burden shifts to non-residents. Currently estimated at 53% residents and 47%
non-residents.
Estimated that there are 60 more primary residents then there were last year.
15 out of 351 communities adopted the residential exemption in FY2021
BoS 9.13.2021 www.brewster-ma.gov Page 4 of 10
Doc ID: 1785779aa81e1a33a5b30e8884ea1d3ca343deb0
Town of Brewster
2198 Main Street
Brewster, MA 02631-1898
Phone: (508) 896-3701
Fax: (508) 896-8089
Office of the:
Select Board
Town Administrator
The residential exemption calculation slide shows that adopting this exemption
would increase the estimated tax rate based on the eligible parcels.
With a residential exemption the greater tax savings is for the lower assessed properties,
there is also a breakeven point, (above a certain assessed value would see an increase in
taxes even if receiving the exemption) for FY22 this would be just under $1.2 million.
The Board of Assessors recommend not to adopt a Residential
exemption. o Option 4: Small Commercial Exemption
Would increase the tax rate for commercial and industrial properties, a small
selection of eligible properties would receive the exemption and the burden shifts to
all other commercial and industrial properties.
The exemption would only apply to businesses with no more than 10 people
and an assessed value of less than $1 million.
Exemption would only be benefitting the property owner, no direct benefit to
the business if leasing the property.
242 small business in town with under 10 employees, only 36 are located on
commercial properties.
Only 14 MA communities have adopted this exemption
The Board of assessors recommend not to grant a small commercial exemption.
Selectperson Hoffmann questioned if the decrease in our single tax rate of $.73, is this typical? Mr.
Gallagher responded this is mostly driven by a large increase in value, which was larger than the average
year. This is the largest decrease in tax rate in 10 years.
Chair Bingham clarified that as your house value goes up, your tax rate goes down. Mr. Gallagher
responded that the tax rate is calculated by the total tax levy, divided by the total value across town. In
this year, the total values increased faster than the tax levy and so we get a lower tax rate.
There were no public comments.
Selectperson Whitney move to continue to use a residential factor of “1; not to grant an Open Space
Discount, not to grant a Residential Exemption; not to grant a Small Business exemption. Selectperson
Chatelain second. A roll call vote was taken. Selectperson Hoffmann-yes, Selectperson Chaffee-yes,
Selectperson Whitney-yes, Selectperson Chatelain-yes, Chair Bingham-yes. The Board vote was 5-Yes, 0-No.
Status Update on Potential Acquisition of Cape Cod Sea Camps Properties
Mr. Lombardi announced the Special Town meeting will be held on Saturday September 25, 2021, at 10am,
with check in at 9am. Rain date is Sunday September 26, 2021, at 1pm with check in at 12pm. Copies of the
warrant are available on the website and in person at the Town Hall and the Ladies Library, an insert will be
in the Cape Codder this Friday. Mr. Lombardi reminded us that the Town held a virtual public forum on
August 17th that provided significant details on the two Sea Camp properties and the plans to give residents
the opportunity to acquire one or both properties. While there was considerable time spent on eminent
domain, it was made clear that a negotiated sale was the preferred course of action. Mr. Lombardi is thrilled
BoS 9.13.2021 www.brewster-ma.gov Page 5 of 10
Doc ID: 1785779aa81e1a33a5b30e8884ea1d3ca343deb0
Town of Brewster
2198 Main Street
Brewster, MA 02631-1898
Phone: (508) 896-3701
Fax: (508) 896-8089
Office of the:
Select Board
Town Administrator
to share that the Town has achieved a negotiated sale with the Sea Camps to purchase both properties.
Adding that with Town meeting less than two weeks away, the Select Board and Town Administration will
be hosting a second virtual public forum on Friday September 17, 2021, at 6pm. Format will be the same as
the first forum and live broadcast on Channel 18. The intent is to help get residents up to speed on the
latest developments, there will also be a Q & A session. A link to the forum and copy of the presentation
will be available on the website after the forum. Mr. Lombardi noted that the tax revenue implications if
the Town were to acquire these properties has been discussed. Noting that the Sea Camps currently pay
about $85,000 in property taxes. Continuing that effectively the $11 million in valuation of these properties
would be deducted from the total valuation that were presented earlier, the net effect would be a $.02 per
thousand increase on the tax rate. The Town won’t see any decrease in tax revenues, but the tax rate
would be adjusted up accordingly if the articles were to be approved, separate from the actual costs of
financing the acquisitions.
Present and Discuss Facilities and Operations Review of the Captains Golf Course- National Golf
Foundation (Joint Meeting with the Finance Committee and Golf Commission- 6:30pm Anticipated Start Time)
Golf Commission Chair, Anne O’Connell called the meeting to order and declared a quorum. All Golf
Commission members present were announced, Andrew Johnson, Wyn Morton, Jeff O’Dell, and
David Valcourt. (John Kissida joined later)
Finance Committee Chair Pete Dahl called the meeting to order, conducted roll call and declared a
quorum. All Finance Committee member present were announced, Frank Bridges, Bill Meehan, Andrews
Evans, Alex Hopper, Robert Tobias, Robert Young.
Richard Singer and Barry Frank from the National Golf Foundation (NGF) joined the meeting and presented
the Facility and Operations Review PowerPoint. The NGF travels all around the country reviewing municipal
golf courses. An industry leader in municipal golf, providing reviews of golf facilities and presenting ideas and
recommendations. Most important, they are a truly independent company that is strictly an information
provider. The NGF provided a review of the operation of the club, physical and economic condition of the club
and market environment review. The result is recommendations to improve the overall operations and
economics of the facility, long-term plan to improve the golf course and recommendations for future capital
investments.
Some of the key points of the presentation include (the presentation is provided in the packet):
Outstanding facility, good quality public access facility. Great flexibility and market presence.
Some need of capital improvements in the next 10 years to help sustain the property and keep
as a competitive golf facility.
A Town operated facility with the highest level of service and facility quality.
No other alternatives of operation structure that would put the Town economically in a
better position.
Applaud Jay Packett and his staff for their assistance in conducting the analysis.
Marketing and technology could be improved.
BoS 9.13.2021 www.brewster-ma.gov Page 6 of 10
Doc ID: 1785779aa81e1a33a5b30e8884ea1d3ca343deb0
Town of Brewster
2198 Main Street
Brewster, MA 02631-1898
Phone: (508) 896-3701
Fax: (508) 896-8089
Office of the:
Select Board
Town Administrator
Strong golf demand on the Cape, but there are may golf courses available, the visitor population
will need to be captured to sustain operations. Enhancements in marketing, property quality
and technology will need to be addressed.
Captains Golf Course is well positioned in comparison to its immediate competition as it is the
only 36-hole public facility.
Revenues are exceeding expenses, which is not common in municipal golf, may not be sufficient
to fund some capital items.
NGF Recommendations:
o Outsource the food and beverage operations as a 3rd party concession.
o Improving website, social media, utilize the point-of-sale system, email communications
with customers and keeping up with fees (increase 2% per year moving forward).
o Implement a strong junior golfer program and player development programs.
o $9.5 million in capital items spread out over 10 years that are important for the Town to
invest in. The most important is the irrigation system, a mission critical system for a golf
facility (about $4.5 million of all capital upgrades that have been identified).
o Maintenance building another key item for improvement, updating items on the golf
course in the cosmetic area.
o Tees, cart paths, repairs to the club house, appearance of the theme that need to
be upgraded and improved.
o Significant detail is provided in the report, which is in pages 22-27 of the report.
Projection of future performance of Captain’s Golf Course was completed, one main thing was
that for many years leading up to FY21, for many years carried a $840,000 debt service which is
now paid off. Provides an opportunity for new funds available for the capital upgrades.
Year to year basis the performance of the golf course should be sufficient to cover most of
the smaller capital pieces. The large pieces will not be covered by operations and will
require other funding sources.
In summary there is a belief that the Town needs to commit to the capital projects that
were identified by NGF, the property needs it in order to maintain sustainability.
Frank Bridges commented that he thinks the report tells a lot about what we already know about the
golf course, it is a good municipal golf course, that he would like to see better. Mr. Bridges doesn’t
think the report focused on the things the golf course really needs to do to be viable organization 10-
15 years down the road. Adding that he believes what is happening is the base population is aging and
the youth population is growing smaller. Noting that our property valuations have increased in the last
year. Mr. Bridges state there is no strong junior golf program, and we have terrible practice facilities
that we get complaints about from people not from this area. He did note that we have a 36-hole golf
course which is a fantastic value. Mr. Bridges thinks that we should be channeling funds into improving
our practice and instructional facilities and attracting people from outside of Brewster.
BoS 9.13.2021 www.brewster-ma.gov Page 7 of 10
Doc ID: 1785779aa81e1a33a5b30e8884ea1d3ca343deb0
Town of Brewster
2198 Main Street
Brewster, MA 02631-1898
Phone: (508) 896-3701
Fax: (508) 896-8089
Office of the:
Select Board
Town Administrator
NGF replied that Mr. Bridges made some good points, and for the most part these are in the report, maybe
not the extent mentioned. One concern is the disjointed nature in which the facility is laid out, where the
driving range is and access to it. Regarding the importance of a junior program, there is a par 3 in Sandwich,
owned and operated by a pair of PGA pros, it might be worth getting some intelligence on their operation.
The distance between the two locations may negate the competitive nature. There are plenty of ideas that
can reviewed and decided with the distribution of funds.
William Meehan, member of the Finance Committee as the liaison assignment to the Golf Commission and is
very familiar with the operations of the golf course. Mr. Meehan stated that the report was excellent,
comprehensive, and looked carefully and closely at the golf course. Adding as to the practice facilities, he
agrees they need improvement, but we need to keep in mind that Captains has a list of projects for capital
expenditures and some items, in his view, are more essential. Regarding youth programs, Mr. Meehan
pointed out that as the consultants say in the report that the average age is high and increasing, while we
should invest in youth programs, but would not expect a whole lot of youth players. Mr. Meehan believes
the recent success of Captains is not accidental and not primarily attributable to the pandemic, but because
we have clearly a superior facility. Adding the recommendations by NGF are spot on.
Andy Evans thanked the consultants and added that he is very interested in the junior golf program
as he believes it is critical to our success going forward.
Alex Hopper, thanked the consultants for their reports, stated that he is hesitant to spend any additional
funds outside of the immediate capital projects, particularly to junior golf programs as he doesn’t see
there is the demand. Adding that spending the money to improve the facilities will ensure that the golf
course continues to be an asset for the Town.
Robert Tobias commented he enjoyed reading the report and the details, adding that it makes sense that we
need to reinvest in the facility for our Town. Mr. Tobias pointed out that the content surrounding the supply
and demand balance is interesting as the golf course would have to continue to balance access for visitors
with access for residents and annual fee members. He had one question regarding the financials on slide 11
and page 7 of the report. NGF consultants responded that they would review and makes sure the numbers
are accurate.
Pete Dahl commented that he really enjoyed the report and the 10-year summary of operations is a good
model that needs to be flushed out a little more. When looking at the accumulative net, after spending
money on capital items it is about break even. Pointing out that the capital costs don’t include any financing,
as those are decisions that need to be approved. Mr. Dahl added that financing costs would need to be put
into the model because we can’t sustain negative numbers in the big years, finding a way to finance is
important to implementing this model. Adding on other hand, agree the need to reinvest in the assets of the
Town, using information presented we can get to the next step.
BoS 9.13.2021 www.brewster-ma.gov Page 8 of 10
Doc ID: 1785779aa81e1a33a5b30e8884ea1d3ca343deb0
Town of Brewster
2198 Main Street
Brewster, MA 02631-1898
Phone: (508) 896-3701
Fax: (508) 896-8089
Office of the:
Select Board
Town Administrator
Selectperson Whitney appreciated the report and looks forward to implementing some of the suggestions.
Chair Bingham questioned that on page 10 & 12 of the report the term “town funding” for capital projects, is
this correct? The NGF consultants responded that the reference was simply that the monies needed in
particular years is going to exceed what is available and that another alternative is going to be needed to
fund the capital improvements. These funds are to be determined at this point. Chair Bingham also asked
since you worked with other municipal golf courses, what kind of reserve should be on hand? The NGF
consultants responded that what should is some type of reserve of 5% of revenue; it is very difficult for most
municipalities to achieve that now, most don’t have a fund. Adding that they believe whatever monies that
is generated through the operations of the golf course should be put back into the facility.
Selectperson Hoffmann mentioned that she recently took a tour of Captain’s golf courses and to be
able to see behind the scenes was extremely helpful. She added that Jay Packett and Colin Walsh are
extremely aware of all details on the day-to-day operations and have a lot of ideas on how to address
some of the issues and the needs to maintain the facilities.
Selectperson Chatelain thanked NGF for a great report and agrees with the opportunity to get marketing
spending up into the 1-2% of gross range. Selectperson Chatelain asked for what the impact is on the
operation of the older irrigation system. Colin Walsh stated that the original system was replaced in 2004,
the systems are in fantastic shape, maintained impeccably and records are kept on file. The issue is the
valves, and the sprinkler heads are outdated technology. Adding that to improve technology would allow
to put the water where we need it and when we need, which is essential to conserve water and use it
efficiently. Mr. Walsh added that the pumping station is in fantastic shape, though at the lowest point
on the course, the concern is how to protect the pump station to keep it viable for years to come.
Agrees with the life of the system that is outlined in the report. Jay Packett added that it is getting more
difficult to get parts for the older system and can get harder as we move forward.
Mr. Lombardi commented that the decision to conduct the report was two-fold, one is that the debt of the
second course is ending, giving the Town the opportunity to reset, look at operations, capital needs and get
a good sense of where we should be looking to go operationally. Adding that when the Department of
Revenue did a full assessment of the Town’s finances some years ago, one recommendation of that report
was looking to transition the Golf Department to enterprise fund accounting. The assumptions in the years
where Captains is projected to be in the red, assume the major capital is funded with one-time source and
highly likely that the reality that we will have to issue debt and borrow and stretch those costs out. Mr.
Lombardi stated that next steps out of this report is to work with the Town’s financial advisors to see what
kind of debt schedules may be possible in the future and the impact it has.
The Golf Commission adjourns their meeting with a motion by Andrea Johnson and a second by Wyn
Morton. A roll call vote was taken. Andrea Johnson-yes, Dave Valcourt-yes, Jeff O’Dell-yes, John
Kissida-yes, Wyn Morton-yes, Chair O’Connell-yes. The vote was 6-Yes, 0-No.
BoS 9.13.2021 www.brewster-ma.gov Page 9 of 10
Doc ID: 1785779aa81e1a33a5b30e8884ea1d3ca343deb0
Town of Brewster
2198 Main Street
Brewster, MA 02631-1898
Phone: (508) 896-3701
Fax: (508) 896-8089
Office of the:
Select Board
Town Administrator
The Finance Committee adjourns their meeting at with a motion by Bill Meehan and a second by Frank
Bridges. A roll call vote was taken. William Meehan-yes, Frank Bridges- yes, Alex Hopper-yes, Andy Evans-
yes, Robert Tobias-yes, Robert Young-yes, Chair Dahl- yes. The vote was 7-Yes, 0-No.
For Your Information
No questions or comments on these items.
Matters Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chair
None
Questions from the Media
None
Next Meetings
September 15, September 17, September 20, September 24, September 25, October 4, and October 18,
2021.
Adjournment
Selectperson Chaffee moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:53pm, Selectperson Chatelain second. A roll call
vote was taken. Selectperson Whitney-yes, Selectperson Chaffee-yes, Selectperson Chatelain-yes,
Selectperson Hoffmann-yes, Chair Bingham-yes. The Board vote was 5-yes, 0-No.
Respectfully submitted by Erika Mawn, Executive Assistant Approved: ________________ Signed:
10 / 05 / 2021
Date
Selectperson Chatelain, Clerk of the Select Board
Accompanying Documents in Packet: Agenda, Proclamation on National Suicide, TA Report documents, Consent Agenda and documents,
Fiscal Year 2022 Tax Rate Classification Hearing documents, Cape Cod Sea Camps documents, National Golf Foundation presentation and
report, Vesper Pond Road Betterment Documents, Amendments to Water Quality Protection Documents, Public Meeting memo, FYI packet.
BoS 9.13.2021 www.brewster-ma.gov Page 10 of 10
Doc ID: 1785779aa81e1a33a5b30e8884ea1d3ca343deb0
Finance Committee Minutes
October 13, 2021 Page 1 of 2
TOWN OF BREWSTER
FINANCE COMMITTEE
Date: October 13, 2021 Time: 6:00 PM
VIRTUAL MEETING MINUTES
Present: Chair Pete Dahl, Vice Chair Frank Bridges, Robert Tobias, Alex Hopper, Bob Young, Andy Evans
Also present: Mimi Bernardo, Finance Director; Peter Lombardi, Town Administrator; Donna Kalinick,
Assistant Town Administrator
Absent: Clerk Bill Meehan, Honey Pivirotto, William Henchy
The Chair called the meeting to order at 6:01 pm and announced a quorum.
This meeting will be conducted by remote participation pursuant to Chapter 20 of the Acts of 2021. 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 meeting may be viewed by: Live broadcast (Brewster Government TV Channel 18), Livestream (livestream.brerwster-ma.gov), or Video
recording (tv.brewster-ma.gov).
1.Public Announcements and Comment- none
2.Town Administrator/Finance Director Report
Peter Lombardi said that besides getting the Special Town Meeting Warrant through by next week, we are
issuing the debt the Town Meeting and ballot authorized for buying the Sea Camps. That has been the primary
focus over the last week and will continue for many more. Mimi mentioned Lisa Vitale and Jim Gallagher have
been working on getting the tax bills ready and will have them out shortly.
3.Discussion and Vote – Fall Town Meeting Warrant Articles
a.Capital Spending Requests – Town Administrator
b.Union Contracts
c.Eversource Easements
Capital Spending Requests – Peter Lombardi said on page 10 of the draft warrant, we have 2 remaining
departments –
Water Department – total $325,000 to appropriate from Water Retained Earnings
Frank Bridges MOVED to approve Article 3, Subsection 7, Water Department as written in the amount
of $325,000 from Water Retained Earnings. Bob Young second.
Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bob Young – yes, Andy Evans -yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Alex
Hopper – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 6-yes 0-no
Approved:
VOTE:
Finance Committee Minutes
October 13, 2021 Page 2 of 2
Golf – number of additional Capital requests from last year – all related to the USGA Study to the Irrigation
Study and the NGS Study. Golf available funds closing out last fiscal was just over $1.4M and they are
proposing to use a little under $600,000 for all their Capital requests.
Frank Bridges MOVED to approve Article 3, Subsection 8, Golf Department in the amount of $577,000 in
expenditures from Golf Reserve. Bob Young second.
Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bob Young – yes, Andy Evans -yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Alex
Hopper – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 6-yes 0-no
Article 1A Unpaid Bills -
Frank Bridges MOVED to approve Article 1A, Town Administration Utility expenses in the amount of
$550 from Free Cash. Bob Young second.
Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bob Young – yes, Andy Evans -yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Alex
Hopper – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 6-yes 0-no
Article 5 Eversource Easements –
Frank Bridges MOVED to approve Article 5 as printed in the Warrant. Bob Young second.
Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bob Young – yes, Andy Evans -yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Alex
Hopper – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 6-yes 0-no
Article 6 Fire Union Collective Bargaining Agreement –
Frank Bridges MOVED to approve Article 6 as proposed in the Warrant. Bob Young second.
Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bob Young – yes, Andy Evans -yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Alex
Hopper – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 6-yes 0-no
4.Liaison Assignments/Reports - none
5. Review and Approval of Minutes - none
6. Request for agenda items for future meetings – please email Pete
7. Matters Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chair- none
8. Next Finance Committee Meeting – October 20, 2021
9. Adjournment
Frank Bridges MOVED to adjourn the meeting at 6:36 PM. Bob Young second.
Roll Call Vote: Frank Bridges – yes, Bob Young – yes, Andy Evans – yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Alex Hopper –
yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 6-yes 0-no
Respectfully submitted, Beth Devine
Packet of supporting materials on the website for public review.
Finance Committee Minutes
October 20, 2021 Page 1 of 5
TOWN OF BREWSTER
FINANCE COMMITTEE
Date: October 20, 2021 Time: 6:00 PM
VIRTUAL MEETING MINUTES
Present: Chair Pete Dahl, Clerk Bill Meehan, Honey Pivirotto, Robert Tobias, William Henchy, Alex
Hopper, Bob Young
Also present: Mimi Bernardo, Finance Director; Peter Lombardi, Town Administrator; Jay Packet, Director
of Golf Operations; Mark Nelson, Horsley Witten; Lori Kennedy, Horsley Witten; Shannon Hulst, Cape
Cod Cooperative Extension
Absent: Vice Chair Frank Bridges, Andy Evans
The Chair called the meeting to order at 6:01 pm and announced a quorum.
This meeting will be conducted by remote participation pursuant to Chapter 20 of the Acts of 2021. 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 meeting may be viewed by: Live broadcast (Brewster Government TV Channel 18), Livestream (livestream.brerwster-ma.gov), or Video
recording (tv.brewster-ma.gov).
1.Public Announcements and Comment- none
2.Town Administrator/Finance Director Report
Peter Lombardi said we just wrapped up the call for the debt issuance for the Sea Camps. The SB adopted an
updated two-year Strategic Plan on Monday evening. We will be talking about that as we move forward once
we get through the Special Town Meeting Warrant. Pete said it has been speedy and we will move right along
to the Warrant.
3.Discussion and Vote – Fall Town Meeting Warrant Articles
Article 4 Golf Dept Supplemental Appropriation
Article 8 OPEIU contract
Article 9 General Bylaw – Storm Water Management
Article 10 Zoning Amendment – Water Quality Protection District
Article 11 Zoning Amendment – Floodplain Bylaw
Article 12 Drummer Boy Master Plan Update
Article 4 Golf Department Supplemental Appropriation -
Jay Packett said the Maintenance and Facilities position was taken from two employee positions. They were
cart barn attendants and were asked if they were interested in a position where they would be doing these
Approved:
VOTE:
Finance Committee Minutes
October 20, 2021 Page 2 of 5
functions. They were 100% on board. As they got older, their bodies weren’t allowing them to continue doing
this work. A little over 10 years ago, we started contracting these jobs out – cleaning rest rooms, vacuuming,
setting up events. This past July we hired a new company to do the Rest Room cleaning for the restaurant and
snack shacks. We will be spending $9100 through Mid-November of this year. This new position, this
individual would help to keep the cleaning of the rest rooms mentioned, plus other rest rooms, maintenance
issues, trash removal, painting, and more. This position will have the ability to get all of this done. There will be
little to no downtime for this person all year long. Peter Lombardi followed-up saying, this is not a new
conversation – we have been talking about this for about two years now. Trying to find someone to clean up the
facility. Golf is a $4M annual operating enterprise, and we don’t have a single dedicated staff to clean the
facilities let alone maintain them. We see this as a strategic investment for the facility.
Bill Meehan MOVED to approve under Article 4, in the Special Town Meeting Warrant, a supplemental
appropriation for Golf Department Custodial and Facilities Maintenance Personnel as printed in the
Warrant. Honey Pivirotto second.
Roll Call Vote: Bill Meehan – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Robert
Tobias – yes, Bob Young – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
Bob Young said he is a big supporter of the Golf Course and Jay. Where he is getting caught up is adding the
benefits and salary, you are at $76,000 per year. The $76K/year is guaranteed to grow with additional costs. He
fully supports maintaining the image, the buildings, the investment in the facilities, but he questions the need to
add another full-time employee. Jay Packett responded that last year alone, in the year 2020, for simple rest
room cleaning alone, it was $20,000. So, there are a lot of deferred maintenance issues that need to be taken
care of at the golf complex. Peter Lombardi followed up with saying we don’t have a large facilities department,
we have a lot of town buildings, with very limited staff. We don’t have an internal capacity to lend a hand to
golf; also, the Brewster Ladies Library has a full-time custodian and has had for many years. He doesn’t think
anyone would even second guess needing to have this position. These are conversations we have been having
now for two full years. At this point, this is the appropriate decision to move forward. Pete said the only
concern he has is that he almost wishes this were a request of the Town, but that isn’t how this is organized.
This will eventually be set up as an Enterprise Fund and be self-contained. The full price is not just salary
because it is minus what the contractors would charge.
Article 8 OPEIU Contract -
Peter Lombardi said this contract is a two-year agreement ratified by the Union last week and approved by the
Select Board Monday night. We have crossed the finish line, 2% for FY22 and 2.7% for FY23 COLA. This
contract is the first to incorporate the recommendations from the Compensation and Classification Study
completed this summer.
Bill Meehan MOVED to approve OPEIU collective bargaining agreement under Article 8 in the Special
Town Meeting Warrant to be raised and appropriated and/or transferred. Honey Pivirotto second.
Roll Call Vote: Bill Meehan – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Robert
Tobias – yes, Bob Young – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
Article 9 General Bylaw Storm Water Management -
Bill Meehan MOVED to approve under Article 9, in the Special Town Meeting Warrant, the general
bylaw Stormwater Management as printed in the Warrant. Honey Pivirotto second.
Finance Committee Minutes
October 20, 2021 Page 3 of 5
Roll Call Vote: Bill Meehan – yes, Bill Henchy – no, Alex Hopper – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Robert
Tobias – yes, Bob Young – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 6-yes 1-no
Lori Kennedy from the Horsley Witten Group said this storm water management bylaw is to bring Brewster
into compliance with the MS4 Permit. The MS4 Permit is the general permit that is issued by the US
Environmental Protection Agency that regulates stormwater discharges from Municipal drainage systems.
Brewster is required under that regulation to adopt local stormwater regulations to manage stormwater runoff
and pollutants from construction sites and finished development sites. Brewster is already requiring stormwater
management under the Local Wetlands Protection Bylaw and under the Stormwater Bylaw. This proposed
Stormwater Management Bylaw would be a general bylaw that would combine those requirements under one
bylaw and raise the standards to comply with the MS4 Permit and make sure we are addressing and mitigating
the stormwater impacts that may be impacting our ponds and coastal waters and groundwater. Under this
permit, projects that meet the applicability thresholds will be required to submit applications to apply for a
stormwater permit. The Planning Board will be the Authority. For projects that are already going through the
Conservation Commission approval, the Conservation Commission would be the authority to implement the
bylaw for those projects. The Planning Board will promulgate regulations that will accompany the bylaw and
define the thresholds by which we categorize major and minor projects. We plan to have a robust discussion
next week to hammer out any issues. Mark Nelson said there is also a water quality component to this bylaw.
Peter Lombardi said there was a 4-3 vote from the Planning Board for this bylaw. They had concerns about – 1,
the regulations haven’t been finalized yet; and 2, relative to those thresholds, there were concerns to the
thresholds as proposed. There will be discussion in the next month or so. The minimum thresholds weren’t
concerns of those voting against it, it was around the regulations themselves.
Bill Henchy said he read through the bylaws proposed and has concerns. He thinks the bylaw is overly broad.
Also, the thresholds seem extraordinarily low. In its present form, he can’t support it. He doesn’t agree that the
Planning Board can change the thresholds as they are in a current bylaw. Peter Lombardi said regarding the
thresholds, those that are in the bylaw currently will remain. He was talking about what in the regulations are
thresholds to be either a minor or major permit, which can be handled administratively. Lori Kennedy said that
local stormwater regulations have to apply to the MS4 regulations that is based on the urbanized area. Then they
also have a wetlands protection bylaw and that gets confusing and the line that defines property
implementations gets overly complicated. Mark Nelson said it isn’t just a direct outfall to a wetland or a surface
water, it is applying stormwater standards town wide recognizing the water quality benefits the town will
achieve from that. Bill Henchy said he is not unsympathetic in the slightest; he disagrees that we are obligated
to do this to comply with the MS4 permit. We are obligated to have an ordinance that regulates discharges into
our MS4 systems where they discharge into water bodies or outfalls. The argument that Mark Nelson made is
appropriate, but he thinks this needs more review. There’s nothing that says it needs to be done now. The MS4
permit we have now is good until next June 30th. Peter Lombardi said under our MS4 permitting, the town was
required to have a general stormwater management bylaw in place by June 2021, and we are on the wrong side
of that deadline.
Article 10 Zoning Amendment - Water Quality Protection District -
Bill Henchy MOVED to approve this Article and recommend its passage to Town Meeting. Bill Meehan
second.
Roll Call Vote: Bill Meehan – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Robert
Tobias – yes, Bob Young – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
Finance Committee Minutes
October 20, 2021 Page 4 of 5
Robert asked about 5 parts per million on nitrogen – is that a further restriction on nitrogen load or is it the same
or easing of the regulation? Mark Nelson gave a quick overview of the changes – the primary purpose is to
make the Water Quality Review Bylaw consistent with the Storm Water Management if it is passed at Town
Meeting. Stormwater management language would be switched over and are handled by the Stormwater Bylaw.
The second part because we needed to make those changes and because there has been some confusion, it was
felt it would be helpful to update and clarify the language and process used to calculate that 5mg/liter nitrogen
loading standard. We’re not changing that standard right now. We are trying to make sure if someone has a
project that is coming before the WQRC and then the Planning Board, that every project has a consistent
process to do that. We want to be sure we follow consistent nitrogen loading standards. The idea is to have the
Board of Health establish those standards. We are in the process of creating a standard spreadsheet. There is no
change to the 5mg/liter standard.
Article 11 Zoning Amendment – Floodplain Bylaw -
Bill Meehan MOVED to approve under Article 11, in the Special Town Meeting Warrant, the zoning
bylaw amendments as printed in the Warrant. Honey Pivirotto second.
Roll Call Vote: Bill Meehan – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Robert
Tobias – yes, Bob Young – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
Shannon Hulst presented to the Committee. She has been helping all of the towns with this bylaw. What this
bylaw is basically what is required by the national flood insurance program – this is an update that everyone is
doing. These are things that should have been on the books since 1985 when the town joined the national flood
insurance program. FEMA and the State have helped put this together, so all the towns are on the same page.
This is capturing the few things that are not already included in state regulations. This shouldn’t be a big lift for
the town – mostly managed by the building department and partly by Conservation.
Article 12 Drummer Boy Master Plan Update -
Bill Meehan MOVED to approve Article 12, in the Special Town Meeting Warrant, Drummer Boy Park
Master Plan Update as printed in the Warrant. Honey Pivirotto second.
Roll Call Vote: Bill Meehan – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Robert
Tobias – yes, Bob Young – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
Peter Lombardi said Town Meeting adopted a Master Plan in 1995, several years after the town purchased
Drummer Boy Park. Most recommendations have been put in place. Drummer Boy remains in high demand.
Pete was interested and never really knew what the building on the property was originally, it was a gift shop.
Peter Lombardi said there was some discussion around the inclusion of the upgrade to the playground which
pushed the overall anticipated costs up just over $2M. Based on a recent audit of New England Playground
Inspections, we think the useful life of the playground probably has several years to go. The cost of the full
playground replacement work would have been around $500,000 is not included in the Master Plan in the
packets but will ultimately be included in the Phase 2 component of the final version. Robert asked if the article
was seeking funds to fund the project. Peter Lombardi said the article is merely to approve the plan itself, not
yet to ask for funding.
4.Liaison Assignments/Reports
Finance Committee Minutes
October 20, 2021 Page 5 of 5
Honey reported on the Vision Planning Committee. She said the committee is developing a strategy and
action plan to engage a diverse group of Brewster residents and town committees. She shared an outline with
the committee, making a recommendation under governance that the committee incorporate language around
achieving and maintaining fiscal stability, something to convey the importance of the financial aspect of the
community. It wasn’t viewed as something needed to be in the goals but rather considered for steps under those
goals. She thinks securing some input from this committee might be helpful and will talk to Hal Minis about
that. Pete said that would be great to get a presentation from Hal Minis.
Bill Meehan reported on the Golf Department. He said the fiscal year closed with record setting numbers in
many categories in the golf department. Bottom line, in a pandemic year with major shifts in management, they
produced a substantial surplus of revenue. They have continued in the new fiscal year. The new management is
in charge, capable, and reporting great progress. He is pleased with the ability of that management and the golf
commission to work closely with Peter Lombardi and the Finance Team to put together a comprehensive capital
plan which is much needed. Bill hopes we can seriously consider moving this operation to the status of an
enterprise account. During a physical tour, the sink holes are a continuous concern. Colin Walsh has a plan for
dealing with the problem, and Bill is confident that over time the sink holes will be addressed satisfactorily. He
is concerned with that liability, as well as, people using the facility off hours, not sanctioned. This is staying on
his radar going forward to make sure these issues are resolved.
5. Review and Approval of Minutes – 10/6/21
Bill Meehan MOVED to approve the 10/6/21 Minutes as presented. Honey Pivirotto second.
Roll Call Vote: Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Bob Young – yes, Robert
Tobias – yes, Bill Henchy – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
6. Request for agenda items for future meetings – please email Pete
7. Matters Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chair- none
8. Next Finance Committee Meeting – Special Town Meeting 11/15/21
9. Adjournment
Bill Meehan MOVED to adjourn the meeting at 7:41 PM. Robert Tobias second.
Roll Call Vote: Bill Meehan – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Alex Hopper – yes, Robert Tobias – yes, Bill Henchy
– yes, Bob Young – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
Respectfully submitted, Beth Devine
Packet of supporting materials on the website for public review.
Finance Committee Minutes
November 15, 2021 Page 1 of 2
TOWN OF BREWSTER
FINANCE COMMITTEE
Date: November 15, 2021 Time: 5:00 PM
FALL SPECIAL TOWN MEETING MINUTES
STONY BROOK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Present: Chair Pete Dahl, Vice Chair Frank Bridges, Clerk Bill Meehan, Honey Pivirotto, Robert Tobias,
Andy Evans
Also present: Mimi Bernardo, Finance Director; Peter Lombardi, Town Administrator; Donna Kalinick,
Assistant Town Administrator; Sue Broderick, Human Resources Director
Absent: William Henchy, Alex Hopper, Bob Young
The Chair called the meeting to order at 5:03 pm and announced a quorum.
This meeting will be conducted by remote participation pursuant to Chapter 20 of the Acts of 2021. 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 meeting may be viewed by: Live broadcast (Brewster Government TV Channel 18), Livestream (livestream.brerwster-ma.gov), or Video
recording (tv.brewster-ma.gov).
1.Discussion and Vote on Fall Town Meeting Warrant Articles
Pete said the main agenda item is Article 7. We have 3 union contracts on this warrant - OPEIU, Fire, and
SEIU. We already voted on OPEIU and Fire. Peter Lombardi said that the SEIU (DPW, Water, and Golf) Union
ratified the terms of their new contract for FY22 and FY23 the week before last - 2% for FY22 and 2.75% for
FY23. All the unions accepted 1% last year, FY21, due to the pandemic. The new contract incorporates most of
the recommendations from the Class & Comp study. There are a handful of technical positions, DPW Mechanic
and Golf Irrigation Techs that have a secondary grade and were updated because they had more training and
certification. There was not anything too substantive other than the financial aspect. There was an increase of
$50 in the boot stipend up to $300. The Select Board voted earlier for the contract and the article. Funding is in
the contractual obligations of the FY22 budget. Honey asked about Over Time and calling in for assignment.
There is a Call Down List for Over Time. Previously, there was an unofficial call down. This Article puts it in
writing and operationally defines how it will be done. Andy asked for clarification on the COLA’s 2% FY22,
2.75% FY23 – 2-year agreement because FY21 was 1% for one year. Robert Tobias said the half steps are very
small. DPW Foreman is in a different bargaining unit, OPEIU top pay is 2% higher than Master Mechanic.
They did not want the Master Mechanic to be at a higher pay than the person they report to and that has more
responsibility.
Bill Meehan MOVED to approve Article 7, SEUI Collective Bargaining as presented in the Warrant.
Robert Tobias second.
Roll Call Vote: Bill Meehan – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andy Evans – yes, Robert
Tobias – yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 6-yes 0-no
Approved:
VOTE:
Finance Committee Minutes
November 15, 2021 Page 2 of 2
Peter Lombardi said the initial Planning Board vote was 4 to 3, in large part because their regulations were not
formed or approved yet. The Planning Board worked on them over 2 meetings and then re-voted - 5 to 1. Andy
asked for an update on CCSC. Closing on 11/23, the Select Board meets tomorrow to vote acceptance of the
deeds. The initial project timeline for 6 months will be sent to the Finance Committee. Bill Meehan gave an
update on the status of the Charter. It has been reviewed by Town Counsel with some revisions, they are
working with Lauren at KP Law. The Town Meeting article gave the Select Board the ability to approve any
changes by Senate or House. Honey asked where we are with the consulting contract for the Brewster Schools.
The initial draft report is ready and is currently being reviewed internally by the schools. We are working on
finalizing a date for a presentation to the Select Board sometime in January. Also, the Latham Centers
withdrew their CPC application for funding due to the deed restriction requirement. They may submit next
spring.
2.Matters Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chair- none
3. Next Finance Committee Meeting – TBD
4. Adjournment
Bill Meehan MOVED to adjourn the meeting at 5:17 PM. Honey Pivirotto second.
Roll Call Vote: Bill Meehan – yes, Frank Bridges – yes, Honey Pivirotto – yes, Andy Evans – yes, Robert Tobias
– yes, Chair Pete Dahl– yes.
The Committee voted: 7-yes 0-no
Respectfully submitted, Beth Devine