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On January 1, 2008, the Brockton EmptyPrize printed a letter to the editor by Mark Coelho that criticized Rep. Calter's position on the Middleboro Casino.

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On Thursday, January 17, Rep. Calter addressed an SRO audience in the Middleboro Library.

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Rep. Calter was available to explain the issues and answer questions.

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Were you there Mr. Coelho?

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I didn't see the media there either.

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And the vocal casino supporters who were there failed to ask questions, yet they subsequently misrepresented what transpired on other blogs.

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The Middleboro BOS has somewhat arrogantly requested that Rep. Calter attend one of their meetings to explain his position. Mr. Coelho, I can only hope you will attend, along with many others to ask your questions and listen for an explanation.

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Hopefully, the Middleboro BOS will have the sense to convene this meeting at the Middleboro High School and an overflow crowd will ask their questions.

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Mr. Coelho asked: "What is your plan to save our schools?" "What is your plan to save our town services?"

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In fairness, Middleboro has a Town Meeting form of government. That means that voters have an opportunity to determine spending and make choices.

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On November 5, 2007, Middleboro held a Special Town Meeting that was a grab bag of hastily prepared information and warrant articles that spent most of the town's piggy bank from the land auctions.

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The Finance Committee received some of the information regarding those articles that very afternoon. Why was the information withheld from the FinCom and voters?

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One must wonder who is watching and who is asking questions when this transpires?

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How do you understand the issues if the information is deliberately withheld from you by the Middleboro BOS?

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Prop. 2 1/2 provided limitations to town spending of 2 1/2% PER YEAR PLUS NEW GROWTH.

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Simply put, you can't negotiate contracts that provide 36% pay raises, as Mr. Perkins has done and expect the numbers to work.

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Rather than blaming our state reps. or others as the Middleboro Selectmen continually do, isn't it about time to accept some responsibility and recognize that WE, the voters of Middleboro HAVE CHOICES.

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We can make a concerted effort to understand how town government works, where the information is, where the money is, and attend Town Meeting.

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Have a complaint or question? Stand up at Town Meeting!

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The Town has been told that we may need a new ladder truck at a cost of $900,000.

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The City of Boston is buying new ladder trucks that cost $630,000.

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Why the price difference? Are the ladders shorter? Fewer wheels?

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Few of the recommendations from the DOR Report have been adopted. Is anyone asking why?

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Quarterly real estate tax bills have been estimated to generate $50,000 PER MONTH by the Town Treasurer.

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Have the Middleboro Selectmen accomplished it? They discussed it in 2003.

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Much can be accomplished with participation. Are you ready?

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Instead of criticizing Rep. Calter for his opposition to the flawed Agreement that will bankrupt Middleboro, why aren't we asking where our other Reps. are?

Town Residents PER TOWN EMPLOYEE

The following list has been circulated, posted, and widely misunderstood.

The list represents TOWN RESIDENTS PER TOWN EMPLOYEE.

This means Middleboro, with a 2006 Population estimated at 21,305, has 1,217 EMPLOYEES or 17.5 TOWN RESIDENTS PER EMPLOYEE.

THAT FIGURE INCLUDES CHILDREN.

We have little other than comparisons with other towns to indicate how poorly Middleboro is being managed.

In other places, those who would continue to excuse POOR MANAGEMENT sputter and spew about well, we have BETTER town services or we have a G&E, or they fabricate information.

The Annual Town Report indicates that the G&E has 52 employees. Do your own math. Not significant!

The DOR Report indicated that Middleboro HAD MORE THAN ENOUGH EMPLOYEES.

It was not for the DOR to tell you, the voter that there are places that can be cut.

Look around you.

Is this more MUSHROOM FARMING by a Board of Selectmen that prefers to keep you in the dark and fed a diet of manure?

Municipality 2006 Population Estimate Total Employees Population Per Municipal Employee

MIDDLEBOROUGH 21,305 1,217 17.5

ABINGTON 16,378 833 19.7

ACTON 20,586 1,041 19.8

BELMONT 23,308 1,426 16.3

BOURNE 19,224 981 19.6

BRIDGEWATER 25,695 401 64.1

BURLINGTON 24,895 807 30.8

CANTON 21,772 1,082 20.1

CARVER 11,578 361 32.1

DANVERS 25,833 851 30.4

DEDHAM 23,615 1,199 19.7

EASTON 23,031 783 29.4

GARDNER 20,805 867 24.0

HINGHAM 21,784 1,410 15.4

HUDSON 19,447 575 33.8

LUDLOW 21,951 891 24.6


MANSFIELD 23,096 793 29.1

MARBLEHEAD 20,231 1,121 18.0

MARSHFIELD 24,836 773 32.1

MELROSE 26,666 956 27.9

MILFORD 27,523 788 34.9

MILTON 25,902 625 41.4

NEEDHAM 28,368 888 31.9

NORTH ANDOVER 27,196 1,276 21.3

NORTH ATTLEBOROUGH 27,946 1,700 16.4

NORTON 19,242 588 32.7

PEMBROKE 18,739 484 38.7

READING 23,086 845 27.3

SANDWICH 20,508 1,246 16.5

SAUGUS 27,107 1,259 21.5

STONEHAM 21,471 803 26.7

STOUGHTON 26,901 1,291 20.8

WAKEFIELD 24,588 1,260 19.5

WALPOLE 23,165 630 36.8

WAREHAM 21,324 978 21.8

WINCHESTER 21,092 676 31.2

YARMOUTH 24,354 680 35.8

New Forum

The following was posted on the NEW FORUM.

To join the discussion or comment, click the link on the right of the screen.

Last year, when the Annual Town Report was being discussed, some may remember that the inclusion of sex offenders was made a big deal, and was ultimately included.

Little noticed, amidst the hysteria regarding the sex offenders, was the concern about enumerating the pay of certain town employees.

Of particular note during the discussions were police officers who work POLICE DETAILS.

Were those wages not itemized, their pay would appear unfairly distorted.

If you review the 2005 Annual Town Report (these represent 2 year old figures), you will find among the listings, these gross pay amounts (on pages 300-301):

Police Officer 88,411.00
Police Lieutenant 130,071.51
Police Sergeant 103,546.60
Police Sergeant 120,098.32
Police Officer 89,467.05
Police Officer 107,869.07
Police Officer 74,574.20
Police Officer 61,605.90
Police Officer 102,030.80
Police Officer 81,573.49
Police Officer 90,274.18
Police Lieutenant 144,134.34
Police Officer 77,859.12
Police Officer 85,326.47
Police Officer 83,414.49
Police Sergeant 87,368.79
Detective/Sergeant 132,870.15
Police Sergeant 110,241.86
Detective 94,597.18
Police Officer 83,582.21
Detective 100,954.67
Police Sergeant 110,091.35
Police Officer 107,164.69
Police Officer 119,941.82


On Pages 302 - 303, you will find the following among the listings, again gross pay amounts:

Fire Chief 87,161.72
Fire Captain 117,961.58
Fire Captain 87,676.71
Fire Captain 93,394.63
Fire Captain 80,428.74
Fire Captain 103,428.30
Deputy Chief 71,744.84

I have reviewed my 2006 copy of the Annual Town Report and find no listing of wages.

Perhaps those pages were omitted from my copy.

You can find a copy of the Annual Town Report in the Middleboro Public Library or in the Town Manager's Office.

Check for yourself.


'Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.' Margaret Mead

Public Records Disclosure and FOIA

The information requested from the Middleboro Board of Selectmen was requested under public disclosure laws of the Commonwealth, but increasing government secrecy is of concern at all levels.

As a result of effort at the federal level, Congress passed amendments to FOIA.

Perhaps Middleboro Selectmen should take note.

Congress eases access to gov't records

WASHINGTON - Congress on Tuesday struck back at the Bush administration's trend toward secrecy since the 2001 terrorist attacks, passing legislation to toughen the Freedom of Information Act and increasing penalties on agencies that don't comply.

"After years of growing government secrecy, today's vote reaffirms the public's fundamental right to know," said Rick Blum of the Sunshine in Government Initiative, which represents 10 media organizations. "This bill makes commonsense changes to help the public know what government is up to."

Middleboro Town Web Site

Middleboro's Town Web Site, long the butt of jokes because of its pathetic state, seems to stand as a statement of the Town.

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The library has posted their links. As has the School Dept.

Absent a calendar that the IT Director indicated would be added to the site, the Town Planner posts AGENDAS.

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Lack of regularly scheduled agendas seems to indicate the Selectmen don't meet.

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Job openings: Wastewater Division and Conservation, but did you see the postings for Town Manager, Town Accountant, or Selectmen's Secretary? Or the land auctions?

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Has anyone noticed that Middleboro seems to have no Finance Committee? If you find it listed, could you please let me know?

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Do you think if the town had a computer savvy BOS this might change? What could voters do to change this? What has to be done to provide information to townspeople?

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Check out other towns: MMA

Town Accountant

Recently, Middleboro Selectmen hired a Town Accountant whose hiring and contract raises many significant issues, including a 4 day work week for $75,000 per year.

The following job listings are currently posted on MMA:

Accountant, Town of East Longmeadow
The town of East Longmeadow is seeking qualified applicants for the full-time position of Town Accountant. Position works under the general supervision and administrative direction of the board of selectmen. Responsibilities include financial monitoring of the budget, maintaining comprehensive financial records, generating required periodic reports, working closely with the appropriations committee and all town departments in budget preparation, and monitoring and supervision of department staff. Qualified candidates will have a bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field, MBA preferred; minimum of five years’ experience in an equivalent accounting position; managerial/supervisory experience; and detailed knowledge of municipal finance software, MUNIS preferred. Must be certified in governmental accounting or able to obtain certification within the first two years of employment to keep the position. Salary range: $60,000.00-$68,000.00, with benefits. MMA

East Longmeadow's Web Site

(E. Longmeadow's stats: 2006 Est. population: 14,937; FY 07 Operating Budget: ~ $45 million)

Town Accountant, Town of Marshfield
The town of Marshfield (budget $79 million) is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Town Accountant. The Town Accountant is a key member of the town’s financial team that also includes the town administrator and treasurer collector. Specific responsibilities include maintenance of accounting records in accordance with the UMAS system, GASB and DOR regulations; preparation of Schedule A, the tax recap sheet and other required reports; preparation and approval of payroll and vendor warrants and performance of other required duties of the Town Accountant. Duties include, but are not limited to, accounting for revenues and expenditures, financial analysis and reporting, and assistance with budget preparation. The applicant should have strong communication skills and be willing and able to work in a team environment. A thorough knowledge of UMAS, GASB and Massachusetts General Laws relating to municipal finance and experience with Excel and municipal accounting software ( i.e Softright) is essential. Requirements also include a bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field plus a minimum of five years’ experience in Massachusetts municipal accounting. Maximum salary for qualified selected candidate is $80,000. Salary dependent upon qualifications. MMA

Marshfield's Web Site

(Marshfield stats: estimated 2006 population: 24,836)

Town Accountant

Town of Northborough

The town administrator’s office is currently accepting applications for the position of Town Accountant. Responsible for the oversight of the accounting office; development of reports illustrating the town’s financial condition; the maintenance of financial records; and the control of town fund expenditures. Position requires a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in accounting and five to seven years of job-related experience; or any equivalent combination of education and experience. Master’s degree in accounting is preferred and certification with the Massachusetts Municipal Auditor and Accounting Association is highly desirable. Prior municipal experience and supervisory experience is desirable. Salary range: $60,761-$78,989, depending upon qualifications, plus excellent benefits. MMA

Northbororugh's Web Site

(Northborough's stats: estimated 2006 population: 14,681; FY 07 operating budget: ~ $45 million)

Public Records Disclosure #3

On November 16, 2007, I hand delivered the following to the Middleboro Keeper of Public Records, the Town Clerk and requested that a copy be forwarded to the Middleboro Board of Selectmen:

On October 23, 2007, I submitted a request for 9 public documents, as well as a request for the opportunity to review Executive Sessions that have become Public Record (copy of request attached).

You subsequently made me aware on Wednesday, November 7, 2007, that the costs of those documents would be $115.00.

The following sites were used for information:
http://www.mma.org/images/stories/AbtLocalGov/public_records_guide.pdf
http://www.sec.state.ma.us/pre/preidx.htm
http://www.sec.state.ma.us/pre/prepdf/guide.pdf

I would call to your attention the following information contained in the above-mentioned sites:

Is a records custodian required to provide an estimate for copies of public records?
The Code of Massachusetts Regulations (CMR) require that a records custodian provide a detailed, written, good faith estimate for the cost of complying with a public record request when the cost of compliance is expected to exceed ten ($10.00) dollars.
The estimate should contain a statement advising the requester that the actual cost of producing the record might vary once the custodian begins preparing the record.

A records custodian may require payment of the estimated fee before commencing work.
In the interest of open government, all records custodians are strongly urged to waive the fees associated with access to public records, but are not required to do so under the law.
Public records that are of great interest to a large number of people must be readily available within the office of the records custodian and should be provided at a minimum cost, if any. These records include minutes of local board meetings, town meeting documents, warrants, street lists, municipal financial documents, etc.

Public inspection and copies of records
G. L. c. 66, § 10
(d) The clerk of every city or town shall post, in a conspicuous place in the city or town hall in the vicinity of the clerk’s office, a brief printed statement that any citizen may, at his discretion, obtain copies of certain public records from local officials for a fee as provided for in this chapter.

Based on the above, I challenge the ‘FEES’ were not estimated or disclosed in advance, not publicly posted, but instead are unreasonable and intended to discourage public requests for public documents.

In addition, I would further call to your attention the following:

Item #1 requested: Statement that was provided to the BOS by IT Director, Roger Brunelle during the July 30, 2007 Selectmen’s Meeting itemizing the expenditures for the STM.
The statement indicated the total costs were: $74,450.

Item #2 requested: Bids received regarding those expenditures.

Item #3 requested: Statement of expenditures and monies received regarding the July 28, 2007 STM used to determine the amounts on the Nov. 5, 2007 STM Warrant.

Item #4 requested: The DOR correspondence discussed during the July 17, 2007 Selectmen’s Meeting specifically indicating circumstances/authorization for deficit spending.

Item #5 requested: Itemized list provided by the Interim Fire Chief at the October 15, 2007 Selectmen’s Meeting indicating necessary building and equipment repairs.

All of the above items were discussed during public Selectmen’s Meetings and should be part of the public record posted on the Town’s Web Site as part of the Selectmen’s Meeting Minutes, but are not.

Items #1,2, & 3 have been repeatedly discussed at public meetings, but not disclosed to the Finance Committee until the day of the Special Town Meeting, November 5, 2007.

Item #5 was distributed to the media and widely commented on.

Shouldn’t that appear as part of the Selectmen’s Meeting minutes?

Regarding the following items, I would argue that all except Item #9 should have been readily available and easily accessed from the Town Treasurer’s records. In addition, it is arguable that all except item #9 should have been presented at the October 15, 2007 Board of Selectmen’s Meeting at which the subject was initiated. Surely, the Board would intend to make an informed decision of this magnitude based on factual history.

6. Invoice pertaining to the completed refurbishing to the Middleboro ladder truck that should total approximately $130,000. (I believe those repairs were completed by Greenwood.)

7. Invoice pertaining to repairs performed prior to July 1, 2007, to the Middleboro ladder truck.

8. Certification issued regarding the Middleboro ladder truck subsequent to refurbishing in Item #6.

9. Evaluation regarding the current condition of the Middleboro ladder truck, when received.

As such, I request that all associated fees be waived and my request for an opportunity to review Executive Sessions that are now public record be addressed.

Public Records Disclosure # 1

Public Records Disclosure # 2

#2 Fire Station and Fire Department Nov. 26 BOS Meeting

At the November 26, 2007, Selectmen's Meeting, the 'interim' Fire Chief/Police Chief, just returned from vacation, presented a progress report and information prepared by Captain Wiksten.

Again, lengthy information was presented to the Board, at the public meeting, not allowing consideration or research, prohibiting informed questions from the media or audience.

The proposed cost of replacing the ladder truck was presented now as being $900,000, with sketchy details.

What was originally presented as cracks in the chassis of the ladder truck has now been identified as cracks in the welds of the frame, not an unusual situation.

Since none of the publicly reported problems with the ladder truck are unusual and all are repairable, maybe it might be helpful for the Board to consider an Equipment Planning Committee that parallels the Capital Planning Committee. The former Fire Chief indicated that refurbishing was required on 2 other fire trucks but subsequently reduced his budget. Those 2 repairs also need to be considered before the Town is asked to bond money for a new ladder truck.

The transparent willingness to assess blame without accompanying research was clearly unprofessional. When a number of petty items appeared on the building list, including a burned out light fixture, surely voters are entitled to expect better conduct. The original 'punch list' provided by the Building Committee is undoubtedly available to document some of the original building problems.

And the BOS had not yet requested a determination from Town Counsel about the legality of using the unexpended funds from the original building construction for REPAIRS on a 4 year old building.

What was originally reported as 'leaking windows,' has now been correctly identified as the large overhead doors failing to operate properly. From the description, it might require minor adjustments.

It does seem that ALL of the doors were replaced last spring. Has anyone thought to contact the Architect or the Installer? It is my understanding that no contact was initiated prior to the first newspaper articles in October.

The newly hired employees within the Fire Department were briefly discussed. It is unclear at this time how many new employees there are or even whether the Board of Selectmen were aware. It seems that other departments come before the BOS to fill vacant positions because there's a HIRING FREEZE that no one has quite figured out. Why is the Fire Department different? Since the BOS voted to eliminate Call Fire Department permits and in essence, eliminated the Call Fire Department, it would seem crucial to public safety to be informed.

It would seem that ALL of the above information should be available as public documents within the Selectmen's Meeting Minutes for your review. Why don't they want you to know?

#1 Fire Station Building Committee and October 15 Meeting

On October 15, 2007, the 'interim' Fire Chief/Police Chief appeared before the Middleboro Board of Selectmen as he had been instructed upon appointment to present a PROGRESS REPORT.

Some may recall the illegal fashion in which the original appointment was made in Executive Session (Open Meeting Law) and when challenged, the Chairwoman believed merely holding a public vote would suffice. The audience presence prevailed, convincing the Chairwoman and the Board of the requirement to hold a public hearing. HEARING

Public statements were made at the time, as well as published editorials, suggesting the goal was to promote James Wiksten, President of the Firefighters Union and former Selectman who was forced to resign due to Ethics violations, to Fire Chief. The hearing was contentious and many Middleboro voters clearly displeased with the BOS decision.

It seems that unless you were present at the October 15, 2007 meeting or watched the Meeting on Cable, you won't know what transpired because the Meeting Minutes have not been posted. Web Site

Faced with a budget shortfall, the Middleboro Selectmen were handed more bad news that's going to be expensive.

That evening, the 'interim' Fire Chief/Police Chief presented a laundry list of building repairs and advised the BOS of the possible need to replace the ladder truck that had been out of service since September 15, 2007. Much of the information presented was vague, inaccurate and without documentation. (It was indicated, at that time, that a new ladder truck would cost in the vicinity of $500,000 -750,000.) Of particular concern was the statement that the chassis of the ladder truck was cracked.

It would seem that all other department heads have provided written information to the BOS prior to their meeting to enable their consideration and research over the weekend, as well as distribution to the press. Since the information presented was significant, it would have seemed a sensible courtesy to extend.

This is among the information that I requested as a PUBLIC DOCUMENTS REQUEST that it would seem should be posted with the Selectmen's Meeting Minutes as part of the public record for your inspection.

Selectman Patrick Rogers seemed the only one to grasp potential options when he asked if used fire trucks were available. A google search of fire trucks, used fire trucks, fire apparatus, provide more than adequate information to discern the Town's options. Upon making inquiries, Mr. Rogers was met with a hostile response.

It was speculated that approximately $36,000 was left in unexpended (and unbonded) funds from the initial building construction.

Of the building repairs, the following committee member list appears on the Town's Web Site:

Fire Station Building Committee
Robert W. Silva
Neil Rosenthal
Wayne Perkins
Steven Morris
David Taylor
Joel Pickering
Jane Lopes
Ed Medeiros
John F. Healey

(Caution is advised when considering that page because there are numerous inaccuracies, including listing the Town Moderator as an appointment. The position is elected.)


Note: The posted Selectmen's Agendas and Meeting Minutes Web Site


(CONTINUED)

Fire Chief

Since it appears that Middleboro will seek a full time Fire Chief effective July 1, 2008, it is interesting to review the qualifications sought in other towns.

Fire Chief, Town of Wrentham
Fire Chief Town of Wrentham

The town of Wrentham is seeking an experienced individual to lead its full-service fire/emergency medical service department. The department’s uniformed staff includes the chief, deputy chief, four captains, 12 full-time firefighters, and 15 call firefighters, with an annual budget of $1.5 million. Wrentham is a high-growth community of 10,500 plus residents, located south of Boston, Mass. and north of Providence, Rhode Island. This position requires a bachelor’s degree in fire science, public or business administration or a related field. An EFO or CFO Certificate is desirable. A minimum of 10 years of fire/emergency medical services management experience with a wide-range of duties in fire/emergency services operations and management is required. A record of increasing responsibilities with strong professional, administrative leadership in a growing community is an important consideration. Past experiences must demonstrate a record of team building, dealing with growth planning, management, finance and human resources related to fire and emergency medical service. The applicant also must be familiar with state fire and building codes. Required licenses and certifications are as follows: Comm. of Mass. certified EMT-B (minimum) and a valid Comm. of Mass. Driver’s License within one year are required. Initial salary negotiable within existing range: $75,000-95,000, dependent upon qualifications and experience, supplemented by an excellent benefit package. The successful candidate would also be required to relocate to Wrentham or any contiguous town within one year of the appointment. Applicants shall submit a letter of application, detailed resume with salary history and work related references to: Mrs. Cindy Thompson, Wrentham Town Hall, 79 South St., Room 213, Wrentham, MA 02093, by Dec.31, 2007. (No e-mail or fax submissions will be accepted). The town of Wrentham is an Equal Opportunity Employer. (posted 11/26, exp. 12/31) MMA

Transparent Budget

MBPC, a nonpartisan organization, has reported on a more transparent budget process.

Additional reports are available on their web site, as well as subscriber information.
One might hope this trickles down to the Middleboro BOS.

A More Transparent Budget: Continuing the Progress

November 23, 2007 Massachusetts government made significant progress this year toward making it easier for regular people to understand how we are spending our tax dollars. These new transparency initiatives allow anyone to visit the budget website and find extensive information including current and historic appropriations for each area of government and mission statements for departments.A More Transparent Budget: Continuing the Progress details the progress made this year and identifies additional steps that would further strengthen the capacity of all the people of Massachusetts to understand the budget and participate meaningfully in debates about budget priorities. This report was prepared by the Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center (MBPC) and the McCormack Graduate School at the University of Massachusetts. It follows on a report issued last year by those organizations and others that outlined a comprehensive set of recommendations to create a more transparent budget.A Boston Globe op-ed, co-authored by Noah Berger, MBPC's Executive Director, and Steven Crosby, Dean of the McCormack Graduate School and co-chairman of Governor Deval Patrick's transition team on budget and finance, explaining the findings of the report is available at this link.

BUDGET

Reminder to Middleboro Water/Sewer Rate Payers

Wednesday, November 28, 2007, a Water Works Rate Workshop will be held.

If you're a rate payer & want to ask questions about the rate increases, the hearing is important to you.

Selectman Patrick Rogers participated in a study committee last year, wrote a report based on the committee's findings and we await the summary conclusions.

Chairman Tom White indicated the report will be finalized and available before the end of the year.

It is my understanding from Selectman Rogers that the committee recommended, after investigating other towns, a separate commission.

Hopefully, the report will be posted on the town's web site and available to the public.

Sick Leave Buy Backs & Comments

Those who have commented on Sick Leave Buy Back have missed a number of significant issues.

1. The Empty-Prize printed an editorial that criticized Plymouth County because of the editor's concealed agenda. Very little local reporting is accomplished by the consortium that owns the Empty-Prize and in essence, it's a wasteland.

On Wednesday, one single article appeared about the Monday BOS meeting and failed to report significant issues. Rather, the Empty-Prize chose to focus on the Regional Task Force and SRPEDD, its targets. Instead of news and factual reporting, the Empty-Prize has presented its favorite targets.

2. The Empty-Prize reported about a single Plymouth Country employee who 'ran out' her sick days. That editorial comment wouldn't be problematic if it represented fair and accurate reporting of the same issue in other towns or specifically Middleboro.

The 11/5 STM in Middleboro approved + $85,000 in sick leave buyback, and additional was voted on at the ATM.

One of those employees approved for sick leave buyback at the 11/5 STM was deceased.

Did anyone question or notice, least of all the Empty-Prize?

While it's sad that the Town lost an employee, what private sector employer offers that perc?

And for that matter, what private sector employer offers sick pay packages to salaried employees?

What private sector employer doesn't require medical documentation?

What private sector employer fails to record sick days, as Middleboro has not?

3. To clarify for all who believe or have been circulating mis-information: Town Meeting has a right to 'fund' or approve CONTRACTS.

If Town Meeting refuses to FUND a union contract at its inception, it's back to the Bargaining Table.

It can't be challenged in court. Some may recall that there was a Town that refused to fund a new Police contract last year and the Union accepted Town Meeting vote without a court challenge.

And at one of the BOS Meetings, I specifically asked the question to compel the Chairwoman to make the comment, on the record, that ALL union contracts will contain the provision 'SUBJECT TO TOWN MEETING APPROVAL.'

Since the Chairwoman seems to have periodic memory lapses and frequently misstates information as it's convenient, one needs to watch carefully, but it should also be noted that the Town Accountant's contract failed to include that wording.

As a footnote: the reason the 36% pay raise for the Selectmen's Secretary could not be voided is because it occurred in the 2nd year of a 3 year contract, increasing her pay to $68,000 per year or equivalent to a department head who supervises employees, manages a department, and has specialized training.

11/19/07 BOS Meeting: You need to watch

At a recent Middleboro BOS meeting, the Chairwoman commented to the 'interim' Town Manager that during the Recall campaign the accusation of 'lack of transparency' had been made.

Most of us paeans are content to accept the burden placed on our totalitarian rulers, but even trivial matters are unavailable.

The Department of Revenue report addressed at length the failure to use technology adequately, so I'll refrain --- only for now, but I would again call your attention to the use other municipalities make to actually INFORM: MMA

(If you've neglected the DOR report to this point, it's available on the mr middleboro site.)

Didn't the IT Director comment that the software to add a calendar to the Town's Web Site had been purchased and would be available? Wasn't it supposed to be available in October? Where is it? Is it possible he doesn't know how?

Several Middleboro residents have commented about RECYCLING. Where's the information?

The following is what I found on the Town's Web Site: Waste Bins

Did I miss additional information? If so, please sent the link.

Middleboro Recycling
Written by Jessie Powell
Tuesday, 16 October 2007
Mr. Donald Boucher, Highway Superintendent offered a presentation to the Board of Selectmen to expand curbside pick up of recycled items to include additional paper items and corrugated cardboard.Included will be envelopes, phone books and 'cardboard' such as shoe boxes.The list of items included will be posted on the Town's Web Site and an informational mailing is being considered to advise residents of the acceptable and unacceptable items and the preferred handling (i.e. tying not necessary for corrugated cardboard).Implementation is anticipated the week of November 5th, so watch for the additional items to be added.Additional Recycling bins are available at the Highway Offices from 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM. Look for additional information and additional recyclables as Mr. Boucher finds additional vendors.Thank you Mr. Boucher for diligently seeking to reduce 'trash' the town pays for and increase recycling. Cranberry Times

Middleboro residents want the answers to simple questions and are unable to locate the information.

Instead of spending time at the 11/19 BOS Meeting blabbering about their KoolAid version of casino gambling and exclusion from a Regional Task Force they don't belong on, perhaps they should figure out how to fulfill their responsibilities to Middleboro and run the Town.

The failure of Board members to review their informational PACKETS was conspicuous. Even the Chairwoman was confused about 'missing' information that was in front of her. (Confidential to Marsha: If you think you can 'wing it,' you need to watch your conduct on tape. Try a little preparation.)

More viewers of the BOS meeting have stepped forward to comment about what an embarrassment the 'Board' has become or to criticize than in the past. Just when you thought they couldn't get any worse, they managed to surpass the previous worst. If you haven't seen it, it's worth the price of ComCast!

Dear BOS: Sit around your living room and whine about your childish nonsense, but most of us are pretty tired of watching. Unless you plan to sell popcorn to raise money to watch your performance, can you please start managing the Town and do your job?

Selectmen's Agenda Monday, 11/19/07

AGENDA
Monday, November 19, 2007

A. SELECTMEN’S MINUTES

B. HEARINGS, MEETINGS & LICENSES
1. 7:05 PM - Planning Board appointment
2. 7:15 PM - Hearing – Request for Transfer of Liquor License – ‘The Convenience Store, Inc. – 414 West Grove St.
3. 7:20 PM - Meeting with Kevin Cook – RE: Benefit Car Show
4. 7:30 PM - Meeting with Tighe & Bond – RE: Wareham Street Project
5. 8:00 PM - Meeting with Veterans’ Services Agent – RE: Capeway Rovers

C. NEW BUSINESS
1. Bob Saquet re Annual Downtown Raffle
2. Request 1-yr. extension re ER permit re 691 Wareham St.
3. Approve Lien Warrant
4. Approve and sign Notice of Betterment Agreement re 185 E. Main St.
5. Request for increase in Daily Water Allotment for Oak Point Community
6. Request for System Connection for 1 Braddock Way, Carver
7. Request approval letter authorizing second appraisal for Rte. 44 well site
8. Request for Modification of Water Use - Lakeville
9. Appointments to Middleborough-Lakeville Herring Fisheries Commission
10. Request Live Entertainment license – Courtyard restaurant, 360 Wareham St.
11. Request 2nd Hand Furniture license – ALCO Jewelry & Antiques Exchange
12. Request permit for Christmas parade and use of fire engine
13. Library Director requests authorization to post “Teen Scene Library Tech” position
14. Request to Rent Town Hall Auditorium - Samuel Fuller School
15. Request to Rent Town Hall Auditorium – Shepherd’s Path Childcare
16. Request to Rent Town Hall Auditorium – Miss Massachusetts
17. Request to Rent Town Hall Auditorium – Rotary Club Arts & Crafts Fair

D. OLD BUSINESS

E. TOWN MANAGER’S REPORT

F. SELECTMEN’S BILLS

G. OTHER

H. CORRESPONDENCE

I. EXECUTIVE SESSION

­ Selectmen - Please Let the Board’s Secretary know of any meetings that need to be posted


MEETING WILL BE HELD AT TOWN HALL
10 NICKERSON AVENUE
MIDDLEBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS

http://www.middleborough.com/Selectmen/Meeting%20Agendas/Selectmen

Sick Pay: Buy Back vs Accumulation

Much ado was made at the Annual Town Meeting (ATM)

regarding

SICK LEAVE BUYBACK

Because those amounts were clearly disclosed, voters FINALLY

began to notice one of many giveaways, courtesy of taxpayers.

At ATM, Chairwoman Brunelle indicated that the town policy

had been discontinued after 2005.

11/5 STM was again asked to fund

SICK LEAVE BUYBACK

TO THE TUNE OF HOW MUCH?

Were you watching? Have you totalled

those amounts?

I'll offer the hint that it's not a pittance.

What the Bait & Switch experts didn't tell you is

they instead ALLOW employees to

ACCUMULATE SICK LEAVE

UP TO 275 DAYS.

Regardless of whether the policy is a conspicuous

lump sum that requires Town Meeting approval

or a carefully concealed additional 'EMPLOYEE'

on the payroll exhausting their sick pay prior to

retirement, it is a concealed liability the

TAXPAYER - TRANSLATION - YOU,

has incurred that will reduce town services.

That the policy IS extended to SALARIED

EMPLOYEES has yet to be questioned.

The retired Town Manager received his

'lump sum' for his accumulated

sick pay, declaring that he had never taken

a sick day.

A cursory review of the BOS

meeting minutes might prove otherwise.

The BOS signed a contract with a recently

hired SALARIED Town Accountant who will work

4 DAYS EACH WEEK

yet he will accrue sick time at the same

rate as a full time town employee.

The BOS also allowed the contract to

include VACATION PAY that he WOULD

HAVE been entitled to in his previous

position.

Little noticed is that NO ONE was

keeping track of sick pay or vacations.

While some might disagree, a list of

private sector employers offering

those benefits would be appreciated.

Middleboro & Quarterly Billing & Assessors

At the 11/5 STM, the Assessor was denied her solitary
campaign for an additional employee based on quarterly
tax billing.

The elected Board of Assessors were conspicuous in their
absence and silence.

Have they conducted any research among communities
that have implemented quarterly billing? It has been
suggested that the Assessors don't require additonal
employees.

Is it only Middleboro or Ms. Erikson?

Narry a question was heard from the BOS questioning that the
number of structures won't change and her statutory time
requirements won't change.

And her argument remained unconvincing.

BTW, you might want to question why the Assessors continue
to receive funds to 'set the tax rate.' Didn't they receive
~ $300K in the spring? And they received additional at the
11/5 STM? Other towns don't do this.

Why the SECRECY in Middleboro?

As a private citizen, I requested information regarding the cost of the 7/28/07 Special Town Meeting from Hell.

That information has not been received by me.

The IT Director, Mr. Roger Brunelle has stood before the Board of Selectmen and offered totals.

Should we, as voters, know what items make up those totals?

I am aware of others who have requested the same information and have not received it.

The Finance Committee doesn't have that information.

Shall we go to STM on Nov. 5th and vote to pay for items if we aren't assured that everything has been included? Will they look for more money in the Spring and hope you weren't paying attention? Why the secrecy?

Tomorrow, I'm filing a complaint with the Secretary of State, Pubic Records Division. I offer the following for others to do the same:

Secretary of State
Public Records Division
1 Ashburton Place, Room 1719
Boston, MA 02108

FAX: 617 727-5914
Main #: 617 727-7030 (ask for Public Records)
Public Records: 617 727-2832

The information provided on the links below regarding public documents are self-explanatory.

http://www.mma.org/images/stories/AbtLocalGov/public_records_guide.pdf
http://www.sec.state.ma.us/pre/prepdf/guide.pdf
http://www.sec.state.ma.us/pre/preidx.htm

Chairwoman Brunelle stated during the 10/29/07 BOS Meeting that the Board had been accused of lack of transparency. What shall we call this, Mrs. Brunelle?