Town of Halifax, Vermont
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES- DRAFT
June 11, 2014
Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 6:35 pm at the town office. Board members in attendance were Edee Edwards, Jessica Bruno, Gretchen Becker, and Curtis Carroll. Marilyn Allen was also present.
Approval of Minutes
Becker made a motion to accept the minutes of the May 14, 2014 Regular Meeting as written. Edwards seconded the motion, which passed 3-0-0 (Carroll was not present yet).
New Business
Public Comment on Economic Development Funds
Edwards reported that the public comment period for economic development funds earmarked for Windham County ends in the next few days. The group decided that no further action was needed by the committee as there is a reasonable structure and weighting factor in place.
Public Comment on Net Neutrality
The committee discussed FCC law regarding net neutrality and the public comment period. Comments can be made by going to: http://www.fcc.gov/comments.
Front Porch Forum
Front Porch forum is live. Halifax has been grouped with Readsboro and Whitingham.
Old Business
VTel Project Update
Edwards reported that a VTel site acquisitions representative visited the site. An excavation was done for the archaeological study and bricks were found from the old school. There was a discussion about moving the site but no decisions were made between VTel, the private landowner and the historical preservation representative. The pre-filing is done, but final plans must be submitted within 6 months. Edwards also reported that the law streamlining the process for permitting for telecommunications was extended.
Wi-Fi Hotspot Promotion
Edwards reported that the Wi-Fi hotspot is up and running at the town garage. There is flagging for parking. Unfortunately the signs that were put up for the hotspot have already been stolen. The group discussed ways to make it more comfortable to use the hotspot- picnic table, some sort of cover from rain/bugs etc. Edwards may host a training in conjunction with the Halifax History book signing.
Economic Development
The group does not have a clear sense of how funding will work. Edwards will talk with Patty Dow regarding donations. The group discussed doing an online economic development survey. Possible questions to include: why do you want it, why do you live here, what makes you leave?
Business Broadband Improvement Districts
Edwards reported that they need to collect the addresses of the businesses in the district and send it to the representative. The group discussed adjusting the district now that FairPoint brought service down Rte 112. Edwards will forward the list of business and contact information.
Committee Organization and Membership
The group continues to look for new members. Two individuals were asked but they did not express interest in formally joining the committee.
Town Clean-up
The group discussed enforcement of ordinances related to rubbish or hazardous items near streams etc. Edwards suggested gathering a group of citizens and approaching/offering to help people in town with removal of junk.
Hearing of Visitors
N/A
Adjournment
Meeting was closed at 8:08 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Jessica Bruno