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News Updated October 2009 The PRV and Isolation Valve Work For 2009 Is Complete! Next Summer The VDE Will Add or Replace Another 25 Valves In An Effort To Minimize Customer Shut Offs During Scheduled and Emergency Repairs. Please Take The Time To Thank The Past And Present Commissioner's, Without Their Forward And Insightful Thinking The VDE Would Not Have The Great Water System We Have. Our Current Commissioner's Are; William (Bill) Sullivan, Chair Robert (Bob) Fairweather Duncan Wood
During the valve replacement work a few customer's noticed discoloration or a chlorine taste, this is not unusual under the circumstances. When a valve or any other part of the system is disrupted particulates trapped in the pipes may release into the water which in turn will enter a home water line, which will explain discoloration. Any odd taste may come from the disinfecting of the new parts we install. The disinfecting is necessary so as not to introduce any contaminants into the system. Though for a day or two you may experience the above, it will clear up quickly.
Winter is approaching and with it comes temperatures cold enough to rupture unprotected water lines, valves, meters and outdoor hose connections. Be sure to take the necessary precautions to protect these items from freezing. For this winter season only and in an effort to minimize leaks and ruptures the commissioners have adopted a "no fee policy" to shut your water off at the street. This will not ensure you wont freeze up but it will make it so no water will flow through the house in the event of a break. The usual $50.00 fee to turn the water back on in the spring still applies.
"IMPORTANT NOTICE" Please make sure there are no impediments at, near, or around your street water shut off. The district policy is a 5' radius minimum. If we need to shut your water of in the event of an emergency or for any other reason and cannot put our wrench on it, you may sustain further damage. If you are not sure where the shut off is we will be happy to locate it for you for no charge. ANNUAL MEETING VILLAGE DISTRICT OF EASTMAN MARCH 19, 2008 GRANTHAM TOWN HALL, GRANTHAM, NH
Notices of this meeting were posted at the Village District of Eastman Office, the Eastman Community Association Office, the Kearsarge Shopper, the Grantham Post Office, Rum Brook Market, the Grantham Town Hall, the Dunbar Free Library, and on the Village District of Eastman Web site.
Moderator Richard C. Woodhouse called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM. Mr. Woodhouse introduced those seated at the head table: Commissioners Robert E. LaGassa, William E. Sullivan, Robert B. Fairweather, Water District Manager James J. Donison, Treasurer David W. Wright, and Clerk Charles R. Pippin. He also introduced Deputy Treasurer Laurie E. Hayward who was not sitting at the table.
Mr. Woodhouse thanked the Supervisors of the Check Lists: representing Enfield; Jim Gerding and Nancy White: representing Grantham; Donna Stamper, Sandra Noordsy and Janet Goodrow: representing Springfield; Cheryl Wood and Sally Allen. .
Appointments were made by Mr. Woodhouse to Deputy Moderators; JoAnn Pippin and Laurie Hayward. .
Mr. Woodhouse explained the meeting format and his plan to use the Condensed Robert’s Rules as printed in the Annual Report.
The Moderator then proceeded to open the polls at 7: 07 PM, for a period of two hours for the purpose of voting on the Article 1: to be brought before the meeting. The Moderator read Article 1: Article 1: To choose Village District of Eastman officers: one Commissioner to serve a three year term. A call for comment was made, but there was none. Mr. Woodhouse introduced Commissioner LaGassa who took a few minutes to address how the commissioners arrived at the dollar amounts recommended in the warrants. He explained how the budget development process sets growth at the Consumer Price Index increase for the North East region for the third quarter of the previous year; which was 2.0 percent. He also explained the assumptions that went into building the budget. He pointed out, however, that the commissioners’ recommended a budget that is 2.0 percent less that in 2007. Commissioner LaGassa outlined how the VDE would be able to cover revenue needs for the 2008 budget that will result in a 3.2 per cent reduction in the tax rate for this year. This is the second consecutive year that both the budget and tax revenues have been reduced. Commissioner LaGassa went on to explain where VDE was in completing the Well Field Improvements Program started in 2006, and advising that the commissioners look forward to final approval of Source #5 well in the fall of 2008. Once that approval is granted the project will be complete. Commissioner Sullivan addressed the open house held by VDE during the summer of 2007 and announced that another one will be held this coming summer. The Moderator then proceeded to address the remaining warrant articles by first reading each one in turn, asking for a motion to approve the article, hold discussions and then read the article a second time before voice votes. Actions in the articles are as follows: Article 2: To see if the Village District of Eastman will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of Seven Hundred Twenty Two Thousand Nine Hundred and Sixty five Dollars ($722,965) which represents the Budget. This amount includes Five Hundred Thousand Eight Hundred Dollars $500,800 for the Operating Budget and Two Hundred Twenty Two Thousand One Hundred Sixty Five Dollars $222,165 which represents the Principal and Interest payment for the Well Field Improvement Project. Said sum does not include special or individual articles addressed. (Majority vote required) Commissioner LaGassa moved to approve the article and Commissioner Sullivan seconded the motion. Commissioner LaGassa briefly addressed the article before a vote was taken. Article 2 passed unanimously. Article 3: To see if the Village District of Eastman will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000) to be added to the previously established Inventory Hardware Reserve Fund (created in 2005). The commissioners recommend this appropriation. (Majority vote required) Commissioner Sullivan moved to approve the article and Commissioner LaGassa seconded the motion. Commissioner Sullivan proceeded to give a brief explanation of the purpose of the reserve fund. As there were no questions, the Moderator called for a vote which passed unanimously. Article 4: To see if the Village District of Eastman will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of Three Thousand Dollars ($3,000) to be added to the previously established Filter Media Replacement Expendable Trust Fund (Created in 2005). The commissioners recommend this appropriation. (Majority vote required) Commissioner Sullivan again moved to approve this article, which was seconded by Mr. Rodman. Commissioner Sullivan explained the purpose of the reserve funded and it passed unanimously. Article 5: To see if the Village District of Eastman will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of Three Thousand Dollars ($3,000) to be added to the previously established Office Equipment Trust Fund (Created in 2005). The commissioners recommend this appropriation. (Majority vote required) Commissioner Fairweather moved to approve the article and Commissioner LaGassa seconded the motion. Commissioner Fairweather gave a brief explanation of the funds purpose and it passed unanimously. Article 6: To see if the Village District of Eastman will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of Twenty Thousand Dollars ($20,000) to be added to the previously established Water Main Maintenance Expendable Trust Fund (Created in 1995). The commissioners recommend this appropriation. (Majority vote required) Commissioner LaGassa moved to approve the article, which was seconded by Mr. Barnes. Commissioner LaGassa explained the trust fund goal of having funds to replace one half mile of water main piping. This article was passed unanimously. Article 7: To see if the Village District of Eastman will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000) to be added to the previously established Well Renovation Trust Fund (Created in 2006). The commissioners recommend this appropriation. (Majority vote required) Commissioner Fairweather moved to approve the article and Mr. Rodman seconded the motion. Commissioner Fairweather addressed the purpose of the fund. Mr. Barnes stated he noticed that this article was for $5,000. In the 10 Year Capital Improvement Program documentation this fund is to receive $10,000 in each of the remaining nine years. He wondered why it was held to $5,000 this year. Commissioner Fairweather stated that it was strictly a matter of budget priorities, while the commissioners would have liked to add $10,000, there were more pressing needs for the extra funds. The article passed unanimously. Article 8: To see if the Village District of Eastman will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of Four Thousand Dollars ($4,000) to be added to the previously established Meter Replacement Expendable Trust Fund (Created in 2003). The commissioners recommend this appropriation. (Majority vote required) Commissioner Fairweather moved to approve the article and Mr. Rodman seconded the motion. Commissioner Fairweather addressed the article, which passed unanimously. Article 9: To see if the Village District of Eastman will vote to change the purpose of the existing Vehicle Replacement Capital Reserve Fund (Created in 2007) to the Vehicle and Equipment Replacement Capital Reserve Fund and to vote to raise and appropriate the sum of Twenty Thousand Dollars ($20,000) to be added to the Vehicle and Equipment Replacement Trust Fund. The commissioners recommend this appropriation. (Two-Thirds vote required) Commissioner Fairweather moved to approve the article and Mr. Rodman seconded. Commissioner Fairweather explained the commissioners asked to revise this Trust Fund so that mobile equipment other than motor vehicles could be purchased with the money. Mr. Wood asked where it was stated that the fund could not cover other items beside trucks. Commissioner LaGassa stated that the Capital Improvement Program previously limited this project to motor vehicles and now it was intended to use it to also provide for future purchase on an excavator, therefore, this warrant article was necessary. It passed unanimously. Article 10: To see if the Village District of Eastman will discontinue the Anderson Pond Storage Tank and Booster Station Capital Reserve Fund established in 2005. Said funds with accumulated interest to date of withdrawal, estimated to be Seventy Five Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($75,500) to be transferred to the VDE’s Fund Balance. The commissioners recommend this article. (Majority vote required) Commissioner LaGassa moved to approve the article and Mr. Rodman seconded the motion. Commissioner LaGassa explained that an engineering analysis, which was confirmed by the state, showed that the district did not require additional storage tank capacity and less costly alternatives to accomplish the goal of providing an alternate path for water to homes in the West Cove-Anderson Pond area, should there by a major line break, have been developed. The money from this reserve fund will be applied to those alternatives in future articles on this warrant. The motion passed unanimously. Article 11: To see if the Village District of Eastman will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of Twenty Five Thousand Dollars ($25,000) to be added to the previously established Generators and Pumps Capital Reserve Fund, with said funds to come from the VDE Fund Balance (Created in 1995). The commissioners recommend this appropriation. (Majority vote required) Commissioner Sullivan moved to approve this article and Commissioner LaGassa seconded the motion. All three commissioners added comments about the need to add to the fund and where the funds were coming from. The article passed unanimously. Article 12: To see if the Village District of Eastman will vote to establish a Capital Reserve Fund under the provisions of RSA 35:1 for the purpose of a Pressure Reducing Station and to raise and appropriate Seventy Five Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($75,500) to be placed in this fund, with Fifty Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($50,500) to come from the VDE Fund Balance and the remaining Twenty Five Thousand Dollars ($25,000) to come from Revenues and to designate the Commissioners as agents to expend from this fund. The commissioners recommend this appropriation. (Majority vote required) Commissioner LaGassa moved to approve the article and Mr. Rodman seconded the motion. Commissioner LaGassa explained that establishing this fund was a part of the Anderson Pond storage tank alternative. Mr. Barnes asked about getting the property to build the reducing station. Commissioner LaGassa explained that VDE will have to work this out with the Eastman Community Association, or property owners, for a preferred location near the West Cove tennis courts. The VDE had identified available property during a previous period when this project was contemplated. Mr. Zimmerman asked if there were other places where pressure reducing stations would be needed. Commissioner LaGassa responded that this was the only one. The motion passed unanimously. Article 13: To see if the Village District of Eastman will vote to discontinue the Communications Upgrade and Replacement Trust Fund established in 2005. This fund has zero balance. The commissioners recommend this appropriation. (Majority Vote Required) A motion was made by Commissioner LaGassa and seconded by Mr. Rodman. Commissioner LaGassa stated that technology had changed and the communications system was no longer needed. The motion passed unanimously. Article 14: To see if the Village District of Eastman will vote to establish a Capital Reserve Fund under the provisions of RSA 35:1 for the purpose of an Office Building and raise and appropriate the sum of $5,000 to be placed in this fund and to designate the Commissioners as agents to expend from this fund. The commissioners recommend this appropriation. (Majority vote required) Commissioner Fairweather moved to approve the article and Mr. Rodman seconded the motion. Commissioner Fairweather explained the current annual leasing arrangement for the District office and the need to address a long term solution for the office. He explained the request is to just set aside funds to study the requirement. Mr. Wood asked if the issue was the size of the current office or short term lease. Commissioner Fairweather stated it was just the uncertainty of the lease length. The motion passed unanimously. Article 15: To see if the Village District of Eastman will vote to establish a Capital Reserve Fund under the provisions of RSA 35:1 for the purpose of Well Exploration and Development Fund and raise and appropriate the sum of Five Thousand Dollars $5,000 to be placed in this fund and to designate the Commissioners as agents to expend from this fund. The commissioners recommend this appropriation. (Majority vote required) Commissioner Sullivan moved to approve the article and Mr. Rodman seconded the motion. Commissioner Sullivan gave a short explanation of why the funds were needed. The motion passed unanimously. Article 16: To see if the Village District of Eastman will vote to establish a Capital Reserve Fund under the provisions of RSA 35:1 for the purpose of Water System Master Plan and to raise and appropriate the sum of Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000), with that entire amount to be transferred from the VDE General Fund Balance and to designate the Commissioners as agents to expend from this fund. The commissioners recommend this appropriation. (Majority vote required) Commissioner Fairweather moved to approve the article and it was seconded by Mr. Rodman. Commissioner Fairweather addressed the need for a system master plan. Mr. Zimmerman asked if we had cost quotes for writing the plan. Manager Donison answered yes a quote of approximately $10,000 had been received, but the commissioners planned to solicit additional proposals. The motion passed unanimously. Article 17: To see if the Village District of Eastman will vote to raise and appropriate the accumulated interest sum of Three Thousand Three Hundred Dollars ($3,300) for the purpose of reducing the principal of the notes for the Well Field Improvement Project WFIP. This money to come from interest which was earned on the retainage accounts as part of the WFIP. The commissioners recommend this appropriation. (Majority Vote Required) A motion to approve the article was made by Commissioner LaGassa and seconded by Mr. Rodman. Commissioner LaGassa gave a brief explanation of the article, which passed unanimously Article 18: To transact any other business that may legally come before the meeting. The Moderator called on Commissioner LaGassa who addressed the progress that the VDE has made over the past 18 months in completing the major rebuilding of the water treatment system. He also took the opportunity to express his hope that others would volunteer serving the district as both a Deputy Clerk and Deputy Treasurer were needed. Retiring Commissioner LaGassa was recognized for his hard work and dedication to the District over the term of his office with a round of applause from the citizens attending the meeting. There being no further business, Moderator Woodhouse closed the meeting at 8:28 PM and adjourned the proceedings. NOTE: Mr. Duncan Wood was unanimously elected, by a vote of 18 to 0, to serve a three year term as Commissioner. These minutes are submitted by C. R. Pippin, Clerk VILLAGE DISTRICT OF EASTMAN ANNUAL MEETING MARCH 21, 2007 GRANTHAM TOWN HALL GRANTHAM, NH Notices of this meeting were posted at the Village District of Eastman Office, the Grantham Town Office, the Eastman Community Association Office, the Kearsarge Shopper, the Grantham Post Office and on the Village District of Eastman Web Site. Moderator Richard C. Woodhouse called the meeting to order at 7:03PM. Before getting into the official business of the meeting, Mr. Woodhouse called on Commissioner Sullivan, who took a few moments to thank retiring Commissioner Stevenson for his many years of service to the Village District of Eastman. He also addressed the service given to the District by ex-commissioners Matt Hines and Kevin Tombs. The Moderator then called on Commissioner Stevenson who thanked Commissioner LaGassa for the many hours he had contributed during the period when he served as acting District Manager following the retirement of Virginia Buckley. Mr. Woodhouse introduced those seated at the head table: Commissioners Robert E. LaGassa, William P. Stevenson II, William E. Sullivan, Water District Manager James J. Donison, Treasurer David W. Wright and Clerk Charles R. Pippin. Mr. Woodhouse thanked the Supervisors of the Check Lists; representing Enfield, Bob Foley and Jim Gerding; representing Grantham, Sandy Noordsy and Janet Goodrow; representing Springfield, Pixie Hill and Cheryl Wood. Appointments were made by Mr. Woodhouse to Deputy Moderators; Bob Chew and Don Noordsy, then to Ballot Clerks; Cynthia Chew and Bill Zimmerman. Mr. Woodhouse explained the meeting format and his plan to use the Condensed Robert’s Rules as printed in the Annual Report. The Moderator then proceeded to open the polls at 7:05 PM for a period of two hours for the purpose of voting on Article 1. Mr. Woodhouse read Article 1: ARTICLE 1: To choose Village District of Eastman officers: one Commissioner to serve a three year term and one Commissioner to serve a two year term. The candidate for Commissioner receiving the greater number of votes shall serve the three year term. The polls were closed at 9:05PM and Ballot Clerks Cynthia Chew and Bill Zimmerman submitted the results to the Moderator. Mr. Robert Fairweather received 36 votes and Mr. William Sullivan received 35. Mr. Fairweather will serve the three year Commissioner term and Mr. Sullivan the two year term.) There being no discussion on Article 1, the Moderator read Article 2: ARTICLE 2: To see if the Village District of Eastman will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of $517,500 which represents the Operating Budget. Said sum does not include special or individual articles addressed. (Majority vote required) Commssioner LaGassa moved the Article be approved and Commissioner Stevenson seconded the motion. Commissioner LaGassa addressed the article explaining the funds are required for day-to-day operations of the District. He also explained how the commissioners arrived at the amount shown in the article and that it is lower than budgeted in FY 2006 for this same purpose. Mr. Tombs asked for an explanation of what would be spent on the Well Field Improvement Project during 2007. Commissioner LaGassa explained what remained to be completed and stated that the major variable in costs was the State permitting process of Water Source #5. Mr. Noordsy asked for an explanation of the employee benefits increase. Commissioner LaGassa explained that in 2006 VDE went the entire year short one employee and the District Manager position was vacant for several months. When the manager position was filled, benefits were paid at the “individual” rate rather than “family” rate. The 2007 budget reflects having all positions filled with three by married persons requiring “family” benefits. In addition, Health Insurance went up 10% between 2006 and 2007. There being no further questions, the Moderator called for a vote which carried unanimously. Mr. Woodhouse read Article 3: ARTICLE 3: To see if the Village District of Eastman will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of $226,035.70 which represents the Principal and Interest payment for the Well field Improvement Project. (Majority vote required) Commissioner Stevenson moved the article be approved and Commissioner Sullivan seconded the motion. Commissioner Stevenson addressed the article. Mr. Tombs asked, “As we have borrowed money don’t we have to pay this regardless of the village vote?” It was explained that it was a requirement to have this listed as an article. While to not approve it would be financially disastrous for the District, the residents do have the legal right to not approve it. Mr. Barns asked if this would be an article every years until the loans are paid in full. He was assured it would be there. There being no further questions the Moderator call for a vote. It passed unanimously. Mr. Woodhouse read Article 4. ARTICLE 4: To see if the Village District of Eastman will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of $15,000 to be added to the previously established Inventory Hardware Reserve Fund. The commissioners recommend this appropriation. (Majority vote required) Commissioner Sullivan moved that the article be passed and Commissioner LaGassa seconded the motion. There being no questions, the Moderator called for a vote, which passed. Mr. Woodhouse read Article 5. ARTICLE 5: To see if the Village District of Eastman will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of $3,000 to be added to the previously established Office Equipment Reserve Fund. The commissioners recommend this appropriation (Majority vote required) Commissioner Stevenson moved that it be passed, and Treasurer Wright seconded the motion. Commissioner Stevenson gave a short explanation of the article. There being no questions, the Moderator called for a vote that passed unanimously. Mr. Woodhouse read Article 6. ARTICLE 6: To see if the Village District of Eastman will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of $15,000 to be added to the previously established Well Rejuvenation Reserve Fund and to re-designate this as the Well Renovation Reserve Fund. The commissioners recommend this appropriation. (Majority vote required) Commissioner LaGassa made the motion to pass the article and it was seconded by Commissioner Sullivan. Commissioner LaGassa gave a short explanation of the Fund and why additional money in the Fund was required. Mr. Darling asked how the board new that $15,000 was the right amount to add to the Fund? Commissioner LaGassa stated it was based on a previous bid and the projected costs to rejuvenate the wells and the expected time to do it. There being no further questions, the Moderator called for a vote, which passed unanimously. Mr. Woodhouse read Article 7. ARTICLE 7: To see if the Village district of Eastman will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of $20,000 to be added to the previously established Water Main Maintenance Expendable Trust fund. The commissioners recommend this appropriation. (Majority vote required) Commissioner Stevenson moved the article be approved and Commissioner Sullivan seconded the motion. Commissioner Stevenson explained why the funds were needed. There being no questions, the Moderator called for a vote, which passed unanimously. The Moderator read Article 8. ARTICLE 8: To see if the Village District of Eastman will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of $40,000 to the previously established Storage Tank Reserve Fund and to re-designate this as the Anderson Pond Storage Tank & Booster Station Reserve Fund. The commissioners recommend this appropriation. (Majority vote required) Commissioner LaGassa moved the article be approved and Commissioner Sullivan seconded the motion. Commissioner LaGassa explained that the tank and booster station was needed to increase the storage tank capacity of water for the community at full development to give at least two days reserve in the event of an emergency. He also pointed out that the Anderson Pond, West Cove and Butternut Road region of the District contained about 40 per cent of the population, but was vulnerable to a major break between the region and the Hill Top Storage Tank. Finally, he explained the need to relocate and upgrade the Anderson Pond Booster Station to the level of service that the District provided the Snow Hill region in 2002. The reserve fund would build sufficient funds to conduct the upgrade at the end of the ten year Capital Improvement Program planning period without the need to take on additional debt. There being no questions, the Moderator called for a vote, which passed unanimously. Mr. Woodhouse read Article 9. ARTICLE 9: To see if the Village District of Eastman will vote to establish a Capital Reserve Fund under the provisions of RSA 35:1 for the purpose of Vehicle Replacement and raise and appropriate the sum of $7,000 to be placed in this fund and to designate the commissioners as agents to expend. The commissioners recommend this appropriation. (Majority vote required) Commissioner Sullivan moved the article be approved and Clerk Pippin seconded. Commissioner Sullivan stated the age of the vehicles and when they should be replaced. The Moderator called for a vote, which passed. The Moderator read Article 10. ARTICLE 10: To see if the Village District of Eastman will vote to dispose of, at public auction, excess or obsolete equipment and materials resulting from the Well Field Improvement Project: a generator set; two well pumps and a motor; a reel of copper wire; a well adapter; eight (8) inch ductile iron water main piping; various PVC electrical conduits; a variable frequency device; two transformers, and various electrical panels and components, and to use the proceeds to reduce the principal of the notes for the Well Field Improvement Project. (Majority vote required) Commissioner LaGassa moved the article be approved and Commissioner Stevenson seconded the motion. Commissioner LaGassa explained what items needed to be disposed of and stated that before holding an auction, the District planned to first work with the suppliers to see if the items could not be sold back for “re-stocking”. Mr. Darling asked if the District had any experience at auctions? Manager Donison stated he was familiar with the process, but didn’t feel it would be necessary to actually hold an auction. Mr. Tombs questioned the wording of the article stating the scope may be too narrow in stating just “auction” and would not allow restocking the excess materials for the project. Mr. LaGassa stated the District had used restocking in the past on this project without objection from the auditors. There being no further questions, the Moderator called for a vote, which passed unanimously. ARTICLE 11: To transact any other business that may legally come before the meeting. Mr. Darling asked what the term “requires definition” meant in the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) report for various Project Descriptions. Commissioner LaGassa explained that those projects required either better definition of the scope or cost, or were determined to be of lower priority, and thus, unaffordable at the current time. He noted that they were listed and summarized so that the membership would understand there is a requirement, even though insufficiently defined and unfunded. He pointed out that the only CIP projects addressed at this meeting were those included in Special Warrant Articles 4 through 9; all of which were of highest priority and adequately defined in scope and cost. Mr. Noordsy requested that in the future, all viewgraphs be included in the handouts that will be used in the presentations. Mr. Zimmerman asked the Moderator for the floor, which was granted. He made the following motion: (“I move you, sir, that the Annual Meeting here assembled of the Village District Eastman convey its appreciation to former Commissioners Matt Hines and Kevin Tombs for their exceptional oversight of the Well Field Improvement Project and its gratitude to Commission Robert LaGassa for his adroit leadership of the Village District, including his service as acting Manager, during a most difficult and critical period.”) The motion was seconded by Mr. Eastman. The motion passed unanimously with applause. Commissioner LaGassa, speaking on behalf of the District Officers, thanked the community for their patience during the long period of water bans while new water sources were being developed. Mr. Eastman asked if there were any plans to look for new wells. Commissioner LaGassa stated that there would be a project for “Well Exploration & Development” in the next annual update to the Capital Improvement Program. He described the alternatives available to the District should an unexpected failure require the development of another water source in the interim. Commissioner Sullivan announced that the District will be having an open-house in early summer to show the community what has been taking place at “their” water plant. Moderator Woodhouse turned the absentee ballots over to the Supervisors of the Checklists at 8:15PM. There being no further discussion, Moderator Woodhouse recessed the meeting at 8:31 PM to await the results of the ballot vote on Article 1. At 9:05, following closing of the polls, Clerk Pippin motioned to adjourn the meeting and Treasurer Wright seconded the motion. All present voted unanimously to do so and Moderator Woodhouse closed the meeting. These minutes are submitted by: C. R. Pippin Clerk Dear Customers: The Commissioners are pleased to announce the appointment of James J. Donison as District Manager. Jim started work with the VDE on January 9, 2007. He is formerly the Water Treatment Supervisor for the city of Concord, NH. He has a degree in Civil Engineering and is a licensed Professional Engineer in this state. He has 25 years experience in water management, eight of them with municipal systems. Separately, the Commissioners regret to announce the resignation of Carole S. White as Deputy Clerk of the VDE. The Commissioners thank Carole for her selfless service this past year and request if someone would care to serve as Deputy Clerk, please contact the VDE office at 863-6512. The replacement Gravel Packed Well #4R (Source #6) has been placed in service. The new Bed Rock Well (Source #5), which has been operating with “emergency” approval by the state, has been placed in standby. As a consequence, the water ban is rescinded. Sources #1 (the Dug Wellfield) and #6 should have sufficient capacity to meet our needs until Source #5 completes permitting. The Water Treatment Plant modifications are completed, with exception of clearing “punch list” items. Power has been shifted to the new 460 volt service and the demolition and reconstruction of the Pump House will commence soon. We anticipate the Well Field Improvement Project will be completed by the time of the Annual Meeting, except for the state's permitting of Source #5. The Annual Meeting of the Village District of Eastman will be on Wednesday evening, March 21, 2007 at the Grantham Town Hall. There will be a public hearing on February 21, 2007 and if necessary a second meeting on February 28, 2007, also at the town hall, to review and comment on the proposed 2007 budget. At the Annual Meeting, by law, the voters of the district serve as the legislative body that appropriates all funds for the district in 2007. It will also elect the officers of the district whose terms have expired. This year, because of resignations in 2006, the voters will elect two of the three Commissioners.
The VDE is transitioning from Earthlink as its Internet Service Provider, and now hosts its own e-mail service on the
Sincerely,
Commissioners; Robert E. LaGassa, William E. Sullivan and William P. Stevenson, II
Dear Customers:
This status report is to update you on developments in the Village District of Eastman (VDE) since restoration of the Board of Commissioners at the September 20, 2006 VDE meeting. On September 13, 2006, the Superior Court, Sullivan County, appointed William Sullivan as the second commissioner. After deliberation, the commissioners appointed William Stevenson as the third commissioner. The terms of both commissioners will expire at the 2007 annual meeting of the district.
The Water Treatment Plant (WTP) modifications are nearly completed. The WTP will be shifted to 480 volt PSNH power in the next few weeks after the heating system and emergency generators have been satisfactorily tested. VDE contractors will then begin reconstructing the pump house for the dug wells (Source #1). This work eliminates obsolete equipment, upgrades the pump house electrical system to 480 volt, three-phase commercial electrical code and provides a secure structure to protect this water source. The contractors expect to complete this work before the end of the year.
The commissioners are having a study conducted to better define pumping capacity requirements. The study may confirm that, while the VDE might satisfy state requirements with the two water sources it currently has, it would have to expand the capacity of each source. That would require additional equipment and testing for the new bedrock well (Source #5), renovation and testing of the dug wells and, therefore, additional cost and delay. The commissioners have decided that the VDE could not rely on only two water sources, particularly in view of the vulnerability of the dug wells to drought conditions. After reconsideration of the failed attempts to develop additional bedrock wells this year, the commissioners agreed to develop a gravel packed well (GPW) as a third water source.
Two candidate sites for a GPW exist: one in the Glenwoods area, and the second, the replacement well for GPW #4 (Source #4) which was abandoned last year when the Glenwoods bedrock well looked promising. A GPW source in the Glenwoods area requires additional testing at a site further from surface water than an existing test well and would have to be permitted as a new source, a process that would entail additional delays and cost. The VDE plans to conduct that testing at some future point to determine the viability of a source in the Glenwoods area. Instead, the VDE retested the replacement gravel packed well for failed GPW #4. The results of that test showed GPW #4R to have satisfactory water quality and the Micro Particle Analysis showed that well to have low probability of surface water influence, despite its proximity to Bog Brook and past spring flooding in the area. GPW #4R has sufficient capacity to safely yield 100 gallons per minute and, when added to the existing capacity of Sources #1 and #5, will meet state capacity criteria.
The VDE will develop GPW #4R as a third source and connect it to the water treatment plant before the year end. The commissioners believe this important effort can be completed within the current funding appropriation. Since that well is a replacement for an adjacent permitted well, there is no requirement for a lengthy permitting process. Concurrently, the VDE will apply for permitting of the new bedrock well (Source #5) which is operating under the state’s emergency authorization. The commissioners hope to complete these tasks in time to rescind the water ban early next year.
Finally, Village District of Eastman customers are reminded again that we still have a water ban on all outside watering, except by watering can or similar portable device. We ask you to be responsible in your use of water and be alert for leakage; internal or external to your home. Each meter reading cycle we identify one or more residences with unusually high water consumption. Frequently, it is a leaking toilet valve that typically will use about $1,000 worth of water over a six month period. Recently, a customer received a bill for over $1,300 apparently because a hose, that had been used by a contractor to “clean up”, was left open while they were on vacation.
Sincerely,
Robert E. LaGassa, William E. Sullivan, William P. Stevenson
Update from the Village District October 23, 2006 Dear Village District of Eastman Customer,
It is the plan of the VDE to have Source #4 reconnected as a third source, and the Well Field Improvement Project completed before the year end. I hope, then, that we can get relief from the state on the existing water ban by next spring.
Respectfully,
Bob LaGassa
VDE Mgr (Acting)
Update from the Village District August 24, 2006 Dear Village District of Eastman Customer, You have probably heard that Commissioner Hines resigned for health reasons
on July 21, 2006 and at the regularly scheduled Village District of Eastman
Commissioners' Meeting August 16, 2006 Commissioner Tombs resigned for
personal reasons. The two vacancies created by these resignations have
left the Village District without a quorum of Commissioners, and until
the positions are filled, Village District Meetings may not be held. On August 18, 2006, as sole remaining Commissioner of the Village District,
Commissioner LaGassa petitioned the Sullivan County Superior Court to
appoint one interim Commissioner. The Court is scheduled to hand down
its decision on August 31, 2006. At that time, a notice will be posted
to announce the new Commissioner and to schedule a Village District Meeting.
At that meeting the new Commissioner will be sworn in and the two Commissioners
will consider the appointment of a third Commissioner. These two newly appointed Commissioners' terms will run until the next
Village District Annual Meeting. The next Annual Meeting of the Village
District is currently planned for early 2007. At that meeting, there will
be an election for two Commissioners, one for a two year term and the
second for a three year term. Until a quorum of two Commissioners can be satisfied, the Village District
can make no decisions and take no actions that are required by law to
have the affirmative vote of the Commissioners. The Village District Manager
has the authority to direct the day to day operations of the District
and to carry out all actions that have been previously authorized by the
Commissioners and appropriated by the voters at the last Annual Meeting.
Status of Wellfield Project You may recall that in July a Jaswell seal had been installed to prevent
surface water from entering Bedrock Well #8. Prior to the installation
of the Jaswell seal the output of the well was approximately 200-225 GPM
(gallons per minute). After the Jaswell seal was installed a pump test
began. About one hour and fifteen minutes into the pump test the output
of the well dropped to 40-50 GPM and the Commissioners voted to stop the
pump test and abandon the well. The dramatic drop in output illustrated
that the earlier, higher, output was primarily composed of unacceptable
surface water and the lower volume of 40-50 GPM was insufficient for our
needs. Immediately after that, with the assistance of a Hydrogeologist, a surveyor,
and NHDES, the Commissioners investigated other potential well sites.
A promising site was identified and selected, and on July 31 drilling
of a test well, Bedrock Well #9, commenced. After drilling to about 1345
feet, the quantity of water produced was insufficient to meet our needs
and development of that test well was stopped on August 4. Traditionally, our peak demand period is over the Labor Day weekend.
Since there is little prospect of a drought before the peak demand period
and both currently operating sources are providing sufficient potable
water, there is little threat to our ability to meet your water needs
for the immediate future. As pointed out above, until we have a quorum of at least two Commissioners,
we can not investigate other options for developing a required third water
source. However, we would like to take this opportunity to bring to your
attention some things that, with everything else that is going on, you
may have missed. Much of the work previously authorized on the Wellfield
Improvement Project has been accomplished. Briefly, we are operating a
new bedrock well (known as Source #5) that is consistently producing high
quality water. That high quality water has allowed us to use less water
treatment chemicals resulting in better quality water and lower operating
costs. The project to enlarge and improve the Water Treatment Plant building
has been essentially completed. Two new generators, replacing a 30 year
old unit, have been installed which will enable the water system to accommodate
future requirements and continue to supply water during extended power
outages. Public Service of New Hampshire has completed installation of
450 volt, three phase power to the wellfield and our electrical contractor
has completed upgrading our power system to meet code requirements. A
remote access control system has been installed which will improve response
to problems and reduce labor costs. We have eliminated two expensive data
lines and several phone lines, while improving overall system communications
and control, achieving lower operating costs. There is more to be done and decisions to complete the Wellfield Project
will be made once the Board of Commissioners is reconstituted. As progress
is made, we will keep you informed. Thank you for your patience during this difficult time, and, please continue
to use water wisely! Respectfully, Virginia M. Buckley District Manager
This notice is intended to inform the residents and voters of the Village District of Eastman that Mr. LaGassa, as the sole remaining elected commissioner, has filed a petition on behalf of the District with the Sullivan County Superior Court and requested that it appoint William Sullivan as a second commissioner in order to provide a quorum to continue to conduct District business. Once there are two commissioners, they may appoint a third commissioner to fill the last vacancy on the Board of Commissioners, to serve until the next annual District meeting when an election can be held for both positions. The Court intends to take action on the Petition on August 31, 2006 on the basis of the pleadings and record then before it. COMMISSIONERS' JULY 2006 REPORT On Friday July 14, 2006, the Village District of Eastman ran
a pump test on Bedrock well #8. Prior to the pump test it had been determined that surface
water was infiltrating the well. A Jaswell seal had been installed to
prevent surface water from entering the well. Prior to the installation of the Jaswell seal the output of
the well was approximately 200 -225 GPM. After the installation of the
seal, the output dropped to 40-50 GPM, which illustrated that the earlier
output was primarily composed of unacceptable surface water. The Commissioners are investigating other potential well
sites with the assistance of various specialists including NH DES. We are
moving as expeditiously as possible, bearing in mind the needs of the
community, the need for a reliable water source, and the need to control
costs. As progress is being made, we will keep you informed. Once again, we ask our customers to be patient and to
continue to use water wisely. As we have learned in this process, water is
a very precious commodity. Thank you again, Kevin Tombs, Bob LaGassa, and Matt Hines Maynard Goldman, President Dear Maynard, The Commissioners of the Village District of Eastman again
respectfully request that the Eastman Community Association Board of
Directors approve the conveyance of title of six retired lots to the
District without consideration and with a waiver of the rules governing
conveyances of retired lots. The lots identified, as Spring Glen 56, 57, 58, 59, 65, and
66 are located off Glenwood and are in the Town of Springfield. All abut
the District's wellfield and upon their conveyance to the District the
lots would be annexed to the existing wellfield. The reason for this request is based on the requirement of
the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, as stated by
Env-Ws 379.06, that the District provide a protective sanitary radius
encompassing an area within 400 feet from all current and projected well
sites. It is the desire of the District to ensure the continuing
supply of potable water to the Eastman Community. We feel confident that
the Board has the same goal and conveyance of these lots to the District
will help greatly to realize this goal. The District will pay legal and survey fees required to
complete this conveyance. We appreciate the Board's consideration of this
request. Please direct any questions or comments on the terms of this
letter to the Village District of Eastman. Sincerely, COMMISSIONERS’ STATUS REPORT April 2006 Last fall the New Hampshire Department of Environmental
Services issued an emergency operating permit for source #5. One
requirement was to operate #5 with our dug well system, source #1, due to
its naturally occurring low leve of fluoride. Since last fall we have been testing the fluoride level from
the blend of 1 & 5 monthly. On average the monthly result has been 1.5
mg/L which is below the EPA standard of 2.0 – 4.0 mg/L.We plan to continue
our monthly fluoride analysis along with our regular bacteria analysis.
Approximately 4% of our customers have not scheduled the
installation of Watts 7 backflow device with a plumber. We can not
emphasize enough the important protection the backflow device offers the
residents and the water system. This device is mandated by New Hampshire
Statute 485 and every one must comply. The Village District will be
required to terminate water service to residences that do not comply with
this law. Progress on the well field improvements project continues
and with the lifting of the road ban heavy equipment will begin to roll
in. We expect delivery of two new generators the last week of April. These
generators will provide a minimum of 30 hours emergency power so that we
will be able to continue to supply water to the community in the event
there is a protracted power outage. Until the new water sources are approved by the NH
Department of Environmental Services the outside water ban will remain in
place. We would like to take this opportunity to out line the restrictions
imposed by the state: The use of hoses for car washing, window washing, and
power washing of decks, furniture or siding are prohibited. No
hoses, no sprinklers, and no in ground watering systems may be used to
water gardens, lawns, or shrubs. Hand watering via buckets or watering cans is
permitted. We appreciate that this is an inconvenience for our
customers but every one needs to comply with this conservation mandate.
Kevin Tombs, Bob LaGassa, and Matt Hines COMMISSIONER'S We are pleased to announce that voters at the February 22, 2006 Annual
Meeting overwhelmingly approved the request for supplemental funds to
complete the Well Field Improvements Project and passed all the other
Warrant Articles as well. Thank you to all those who asked questions,
expressed opinions, made suggestions, and voted their support of the
Project.
The following community members will be serving the District in these
official capacities:
The operation of the District continues with its loyal staff comprised
of District Manager Virginia M. Buckley, Administrative Assistant Patricia
L. Conroy, and Field Technician Neil E. Perez.
We are currently pursuing the hiring of a qualified employee to work in
the field.
We are happy to report that progress on the project has been made in
these areas:
Demolition of the old chemical building has been completed.
Generator delivery scheduled.
Instrumentation and electrical work is ongoing.
Mechanical work will be completed in two weeks.
Sustained pumping test at second bed rock well site scheduled for
next week. Your continued support by voluntary conservation is essential to the
overall success of the project. The ban on outside water use must remain
in place because it is a stipulation under the emergency permit, however
we will not post any signs.
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