Pauly's Templeton Watch: January 2014

Friday, January 31, 2014

Assessment highlights key health issues for Templeton

Eryn Dion
News Staff Writer
TEMPLETON — Templeton has a serious problem with heart disease, according to a Community Health Assessment recently released by Montachusett Public Health Network.

The report revealed the town has the highest age-adjusted cardiovascular mortality rate in the region at 360 deaths per 100,000 persons, outpacing surrounding towns and even the Commonwealth by a significant margain. The next highest rate was registered by the town of Sterling with 273, while the state as a whole sat at 200.

The assessment, which pulled data from 11 surrounding cities and towns, including Gardner, Fitchburg, Phillipston and Athol, provides information on everything from poverty rates to infectious disease prevalence and substance abuse.

250 miles of natural gas pipeline proposed

Katie Landeck & Eryn Dion
News Staff Writers

REGION — Local communities are being approached by officials from Tennessee Gas Pipeline Co., an entity interested in constructing roughly 250 miles of new pipeline through northern Worcester County.

“The project is in its very early stages,” said Tennessee Gas Pipeline Co. spokesman Richard Wheatley.

Officials from Athol, Ashburnham and Winchendon have already been contacted by representatives from the company, which is a subsidiary of Kinder Morgan Inc.

The proposal, dubbed the Northeast Expansion Project, is being sought to upgrade existing Tennessee Gas Pipeline systems within New York, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Connecticut. In addition to the construction of approximately 250 miles of new pipeline, the project would require the setup of new meter stations and modifications to existing facilities in order to carry natural gas to the eastern part of the state — according to a recent press release.

Templeton: Time to stop blaming and start doing

To The Editor: 1/31/2014
Virginia Wilder
Templeton
To The Editor:

A recent Letter To The Editor that appeared in The Gardner News on Jan. 15 threw blame all over the place for the current financial problems that the town is having.

I wouldn’t have bothered writing here at this time except the article used names, amongst which appeared mine. I can understand that, if I had failed the public the way the current Board of Selectmen appears to be doing, I would try to explain it anyway I could. You can throw around blame all you want, but the fact is that all of this is happening on the board’s watch. This money is not missing from past budgets it is missing now.

The first debacle was the need for having an override. The need for the override should never have been attributed to the need to fund the school. It should have been advertised as an override to appropriately fund the town budget obligations.

I have heard members of our own Board of Selectmen (BOS) say that the School Department was to blame for the financial problems in the town. Some members of our BOS made every effort to try to prevent the school department from getting the budget they needed to perform at a level that is conducive to good education for our children.

Rutland seeks state money to patch budget

By Sandy Meindersma CORRESPONDENT

RUTLAND — After five years of increasing school assessments, the town is seeking relief from the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

The state has 2 million in a so-called "pothole" fund that is meant to cushion the costs of education. Both municipalities and school districts may apply for the money. How it will be awarded depends on how many applications the department receives by the deadline Friday.

Thursday, January 30, 2014

Historical Society's "Queenie" back for another year

Eryn Dion
News Staff Writer

PHILLIPSTON — The Historical Society of Phillipston’s famed “Queenie” cardboard cutout will be on thin ice again this year, as the society’s annual Queen Lake Ice-Out fundraiser is set to begin.

The premise is simple – “Queenie”, tied to a clock, is left out on the ice covering Queen Lake and residents place bets on when she’ll fall through. Once the ice thaws, she plunges into the freezing water below, stopping the clock. She is then pulled out, and the official time checked and verified by Tim Haley, who lives on the lake and watches during her stay on the ice.

Water budget to be removed from town vote

Board could ask for a PILOT agreement
Eryn Dion
News Staff Writer

TEMPLETON — The town’s Municipal Light and Water Plant has requested to have their operating budget formally removed as an article from the Annual Town Meeting warrant in a letter delivered to the Board of Selectmen.

The request was in response to a letter issued by the state Department of Revenue stating, because of special legislation merging the town’s light and water into one department, Templeton’s water budget is no longer dependent on the board or town meeting approval. An inquiry to the state department was sent by the selectmen after the water department’s budget was rejected at last year’s town meeting in May and the board threatened to stop processing their vendor warrants — effectively shutting them down.

John Driscoll, the plant’s General Manager, authored the letter and stated he would continue to provide a copy of their budget to the selectmen as a courtesy.

Although the state department’s ruling was not technically in their favor, selectmen offered several interesting responses.

Templeton's Council on Aging adds a new van to existing fleet

Eryn Dion
News Staff Writer

News staff photo by ERYN DION

State Representative Denise Andrews D-Orange (left), Council on Aging Director Bethany Loveless (back left), Board of Selectmen Chair Jeffrey Bennett (front left) , and several senior center regulars pose inside the recently purchased COA van.

TEMPLETON — Templeton’s Council on Aging will soon add a new vehicle to their fleet, allowing more comfortable and reliable transportation for area seniors.

The van, a 14- seater 2005 Ford ElDorado, was up and running at Templeton’s Highway Department building Tuesday morning, although it is still waiting for the mechanic’s final inspection before officially entering into service.

“It’s a very important addition,” said Jeffrey Bennett, Chairman of the Board of Selectmen, who came to see the new vehicle. “It keeps the senior center project moving forward, and it’s been a long time coming.”

State Representative Denise Andrews (D-Orange), who played an instrumental role in negotiating the price, took a tour of the van’s interior, along with Mr. Bennett and several senior center regulars. Council on Aging Director Bethany Loveless said the Representative was a “tremendous help” throughout the process and was glad she could come out to see the finished product.

Templeton’s COA, with support from the Montachusett Regional Transit Authority, runs a three-van transportation program for seniors and disabled residents. According to Ms. Loveless, the program has provided over 5600 rides to 120 seniors in the area since last July.

Former Springfield mayor tapped for administrator position

Eryn Dion
News Staff Writer

TEMPLETON — Templeton officially has a new interim Town Administrator.

The Board of Selectmen voted unanimously Monday night to appoint Robert Markel, the position’s sole applicant, to the part-time administrator post which will begin Feb. 3 and last through the fiscal year.

“It’s really important for the town, on a lot of fronts, to have someone in there at least part time,” Chairman Jeffrey Bennett said. “There are a lot of things that need work, the budget being number one.”

Mr. Markel will temporarily fill the seat left by former Town Coordinator Jeff Ritter, who left earlier in the month for a town administrator position in Sterling.

“Because I retired in the Massachusetts system, I can’t take on full-time work,” Mr. Markel explained. “But, like many retirees, after seven or eight months, I got a little antsy.”

January 27, 2014 BOS Meeting…the movie

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January 27, 2014 BOS Meeting…the movie

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Before the executive session

Part 1 of 4 BOS Meeting January 27, 2014

Part 2 of 4 BOS Meeting January 27, 2014

Part 3 of 4 BOS Meeting January 27, 2014

Part 4 of 4 BOS Meeting January 27, 2014

House passes farm bill; crop subsidies preserved

MCGOVERN OPPOSES FOOD STAMP CUTS

Hemp chef Derek Cross helps bring in the crop last fall in Springfield, Colo., during the first known harvest of the plant in more than 60 years. The federal farm bill agreement reached Monday reverses decades of prohibition for hemp cultivation. Instead of requiring approval from federal drug authorities to cultivate the plant, the 10 states that have authorized hemp would be allowed to grow it in pilot projects or at colleges and universities for research. (THE ASSOCIATED PRESS)

By Mary Clare Jalonick THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
WASHINGTON — After more than two years of partisan squabbles over food and farm policy, the House passed and sent to the Senate Wednesday an almost $100 billion-a-year, compromise farm bill containing a small cut in food stamps and preserving most crop subsidies.

White House spokesman Jay Carney said shortly after the vote that President Barack Obama would sign the bill if it reaches his desk.

Wednesday, January 29, 2014

'Zombie' bees identified in Vt., 1st in Eastern US

The photo on Page B8 is of a healthy bee in a hive on display at the Vermont Beekeeping Supply booth at the 82nd annual Vermont Farm Show underway this week at the Champlain Valley Expo in Essex Junction, Vt.

By Beth Garbitelli THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
ESSEX JUNCTION, Vt. — Vermont beekeepers face mite infestations, extreme temperature swings and the possibility of colony collapse. Last fall, a new threat emerged: zombie bees.

Beekeeper Anthony Cantrell of Burlington discovered zombie bees in his hive in October, the first time they'd been found in the Eastern United States.

The American media and how we view gun violence

To The Editor: 1/28/2014
Keith Kent
Templeton

To The Editor:

Why is it that we have become a nation of people that just take what they hear on the evening news as informational holy gospel, and do not take the time to check the validity of statistics, records, and available empirical data? The answer is simply, it is easier to lackadaisically absorb what you hear, rather than burn a few mental calories and do even just a small amount of research to become a better informed citizen.

How many citizens believe that “school shootings are a newer phenomenon?” If you do, you are sadly a much uninformed citizen. These cowardly and disgusting acts recorded on our very soil date back all the way to 1760’s when an attack using muskets became the first recorded event turning firearms on innocent children on our soil.

The list of these unthinkable acts is at your fingertips if you simply go to the information giant Wikipedia on the internet and in your search type “list of school shootings.” If you have the courage to simply read, you will find that in some way, shape, or from these events have happened here through the passage of centuries.

Tuesday, January 28, 2014

BOS Meeting January 27, 2014

BOS Meeting January 27, 2014

Busy night! Long meeting!

CDBG Grant Application-

The BOS approved the FY 14 CDBG grant application, which will be a joint effort with the Town of Hubbardston. The BOS awarded the construction contract for the last phase in Back Bay – Memorial St.

There will be a site walk in East Templeton on Saturday at 10:00 a.m., which is part of the CDBG application process. Please fill out those surveys and return them!

Town Administrator-

Robert Markel was present at the meeting and was introduced. The BOS voted to fill the town administrator position on an interim basis. The BOS then went into Executive session under MGL c30A, Sec. 21(2) to negotiate with non-union personnel.The BOS reconvened in open session. Mr. Markel will begin his employment as interim town administrator on Monday, February 3^rd!

Monday, January 27, 2014

Meetings 1/27/14 - 1/31/14

Meetings 1/27/14 - 1/31/14

Monday 1/27/14

BOS 690 Patriots Rd 6:30 pm

Tuesday 1/28/14

Capital Planning 690 Patriots Rd 6:30 pm

Planning Board 690 Patriots Rd 6:30 pm

MRPC Fitchburg 7:00 pm

Natural Gas Prices Soar as Mercury Plummets

By CLIFFORD KRAUSSJAN. 24, 2014

HOUSTON — Natural gas prices spiked by nearly 10 percent on Friday to levels not seen since 2010 as another wave of freezing weather brought surges of heating and electricity demand.

Bone-chilling weather had already strained the natural gas pipeline system serving the Northeast in early January, and the thermometer’s latest plunge caused natural gas prices to rise by more than 5 percent nationally on each of four consecutive days.

Friday’s price of $5.20 per thousand cubic feet was the first time gas had crossed the symbolic $5 threshold in three and a half years, although the current price is still roughly a third of the gas price before the 2008 financial crisis and the surge in domestic production since then.

Warren, Markey call for more heat aid

By Steven H. Foskett Jr. TELEGRAM & GAZETTE STAFF
sfoskett@telegram.com

U.S. Sens. Edward J. Markey and Elizabeth Warren have called on the Obama administration to immediately distribute remaining low-income heating assistance funds in light of harsh weather and tough economic conditions.

The senators, both D-Mass., sent a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius arguing that the passage of the 2014 appropriations bill allowed the department to immediately distribute nearly $490 million remaining in the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

The new face of food stamps: working-age Americans

Maggie Barcellano sits down for dinner with her daughter, Zoe, 3, at Barcellano's father's house in Austin, Texas on Saturday, Jan. 25, 2014. Barcellano, who lives with her father, enrolled in the food stamps program to help save up for paramedic training while she works as a home health aide and raises her daughter. Working-age people now make up the majority in U.S. households that rely on food stamps, a switch from a few years ago when children and the elderly were the main recipients. (AP Photo/Tamir Kalifa)

The new face of food stamps: working-age Americans

US FOOD STAMPS INCOME INEQUALITY

The Associated Press

WASHINGTON — In a first, working-age people now make up the majority in U.S. households that rely on food stamps _ a switch from a few years ago, when children and the elderly were the main recipients.

Some of the change is due to demographics, such as the trend toward having fewer children. But a slow economic recovery with high unemployment, stagnant wages and an increasing gulf between low-wage and high-skill jobs also plays a big role. It suggests that government spending on the $80 billion-a-year food stamp program _ twice what it cost five years ago _ may not subside significantly anytime soon.

Food stamp participation since 1980 has grown the fastest among workers with some college training, a sign that the safety net has stretched further to cover America's former middle class, according to an analysis of government data for The Associated Press by economists at the University of Kentucky. Formally called Supplemental Nutrition Assistance, or SNAP, the program now covers 1 in 7 Americans.

Sunday, January 26, 2014

Conspiracy theory humor ?

'Gansett 8th graders serve with Gov. Patrick

Staff Report

TEMPLETON — Eighth grade students from across the state joined Governor Deval Patrick in Boston for a day on Jan. 18 through Project 351 — a community service initiative launched in 2001 by the governor.

“Our young people have unlimited potential to create positive change across our Commonwealth, our nation and our world,” Gov. Patrick said in a statement. “Project 351 recognizes that, while providing a wonderful opportunity to inspire, challenge and motivate our next generation of leaders to give back and make a significant impact.”

Project 351 is an independent non profit organization which seeks to engage community members by promoting kindness, compassion, commitment, humility and generosity.

Saturday, January 25, 2014

Templeton to hold special meeting

Templeton to hold special meeting
Issue of free cash ties up budget resolution

Eryn Dion
News Staff Writer

TEMPLETON — Town officials have selected March 8 for a Special Town Meeting where the Board of Selectmen will present their plan to combat a $505,000 budget shortfall.

Residents have expressed frustration for the board’s lack of direction during the budget crisis, although Chairman Jeffrey Bennett explained a concrete plan was hinging on the amount of certified free cash the town has at its disposal — a number which still remains a mystery, even to board members.

Mr. Bennett indicated he made several requests about the certified free cash amount to the Town Accountant, however, the accountant, he said, was reluctant to provide any figure until it was finalized. The free cash amount will not be known until the Fiscal Year 2013 books are closed, which officials said should occur by the end of this month. If, however, the information is delayed until after the town meeting, the board will be left with fewer choices.

Friday, January 24, 2014

Without a tax rate, town forced to take out a loan

Eryn Dion
News Staff Writer

TEMPLETON — The Board of Selectmen voted Thursday afternoon to allow Town Treasurer Daniel Keeney to take out a $2.6 million loan in anticipation of future revenue collection.

The decision was made during an emergency meeting, with all members except Kenn Robinson present. The board voted unanimously to authorize the loan.

According to member Julie Farrell, the $2.6 million will be used to cover the town’s expenses through the fiscal year until the tax rate is set. The rate is not set until after the books for Fiscal Year 2013 are closed, which Chairman Jeffrey Bennett explained at Tuesday’s meeting should happen by the end of the month.

The $2.6 million was based on an estimate of what the tax rate would be and how much revenue it would bring the town.

January 21, 2014 BOS Meeting…the movie

January 21, 2014 BOS Meeting…the movie

Part 1 of the January 21, 2014 BOS Meeting

Part 2 of the January 21, 2014 BOS Meeting

Part 3 of the January 21, 2014 BOS Meeting

Monks at Spencer Brewery tap tradition

ST. JOSEPH'S ABBEY SAVORS DEBUT OF ALE

Father Isaac Keeley, director of Spencer Brewery, holds a four-pack of Trappist Ale during a tour of the facility. (T&G Staff/RICK CINCLAIR)

By Kim Ring TELEGRAM & GAZETTE STAFF

SPENCER — Several years ago, the monks at St. Joseph's Abbey realized they needed another way to sustain themselves and to support the abbey where they live.

Over the years they've turned out millions of jars of their popular Trappist Preserves — jams, jellies, conserves and marmalades in a variety of flavors. But that work is labor intensive and the monks, who are an aging population, find it taxing. Making more preserves seemed too difficult. And with a decreasing number of men entering the priesthood, their business making vestments wasn't likely to grow, either.

As they mulled their options, the idea of a brewery came up and was almost as quickly shot down during strategic planning sessions with a group of advisers.

One by one, other ideas came off the table. Father Isaac Keeley and a few other monks, all fans of the brewery option, began doing some research. The monks found Dann Paquette, a craft brewer and founder of Pretty Things Beer and Ale Project. Mr. Paquette had some knowledge of Trappist ales and worked with the monks, allowing one of them to take part in brew days to learn the craft.

In 2009, the monks brewed a batch of ale, made some nice labels and presented the bottles as Christmas gifts to the businessmen and academics on the board of advisers.

Thursday, January 23, 2014

Templeton close to hiring interim administrator

Staff Report

TEMPLETON — The question of the town’s interim Town Administrator will likely be resolved at Jan. 27 Board of Selectmen meeting, with officials meeting the sole candidate.

Chairman Jeffrey Bennett indicated that the board did not receive any other resumes or have any other candidates interested in the position.

Officials said the sole candidate is currently he is the interim town administrator in Northfield, and has previously served as the mayor of Springfield, as well as numerous administrator positions in towns around the state.

Gov. Patrick unveils ‘tight’ $36.34B budget

By John J. Monahan TELEGRAM & GAZETTE STAFF
jmonahan@telegram.com

BOSTON — Gov. Deval L. Patrick proposed a $36.34 billion fiscal 2015 budget Wednesday that would increase spending by 4.9 percent over total fiscal 2014 spending, while level funding state aid to cities and towns

The governor’s budget proposes no major tax hikes and would increase funding for local public schools by $100 million, or $25 per pupil. Another $69 million increase in higher education funding he said should be enough to keep tuition and fees from going up at state colleges and universities for the second year in a row.
The governor said cities and towns may have trouble living without an increase in aid this year, but added, “I think it is tough for everybody this year. This budget is still tight and I think the next few budgets will continue to be tight.”

US Sen. Warren: Let students refinance their loans

BOSTON — U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., said she is planning to file a bill to let students refinance their old loans at a new lower rate to ease the loan burden burying graduates in debt and stifling economic growth.

Warren said it's important to let students with old, high-interest loans take advantage of lower rates now offered to students under a new federal law this year.

An undergraduate student who took out an unsubsidized federal loan before July 1 is paying almost 7 percent interest, Warren said. After July 1, that borrower would pay less than 4 percent interest.

She said most borrowers who took out loans in the last decade are paying much higher rates than they would if they took out those loans today, making it harder for them to buy homes and cars after graduation and save for retirement.

Warren, McGovern push for extension of jobless benefits

U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., gestures while U.S. Rep. James McGovern, D-Worcester, and Worcester Mayor Joseph Petty listen during a roundtable discussion on unemployment Wednesday at the Workforce Central Career Center on Front Street in Worcester. (T&G Staff/STEVE LANAVA)

WORCESTER — Tony Caramello's story is one heard many times in today's economy.

At age 55, with 18 years of executive experience under his belt, Mr. Caramello got called into the meeting nobody wants to ever be a part of.

"They told me my services were no longer needed," he said.

His wife is a schoolteacher, which softened the blow somewhat, but unemployment helped fill the gaps as he began a long search for a new job.

He said he never thought he would be asking for an extension on unemployment benefits after his 30 weeks ran out. But he did.

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Narragansett student honored for heroic actions

Eryn Dion
News Staff Writer

Ethan Curcio, 16, center, was honored Tuesday for his heroic actions in saving his family from a burning house fire on New Year’s Eve.

TEMPLETON — Narragansett Regional High School student Ethan Curcio, 16, was honored Tuesday for his heroic actions after saving his family from a burning house fire on New Year’s Eve.

“The only thing that got us out of there was our son,” said Faith Curcio, Ethan’s mother. “We’re here because of him.”

Winchendon Fire Chief Thomas Smith and Templeton’s School Resource Officer Steven Flis presented the high school junior, who was surrounded by his family, with a certificate of bravery.

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Deliberately Obtuse

1/19/2014

Office of the Attorney General

Division of Open Government

One Ashburton Place

Boston, MA 02108

To Whom It May Concern:

RE: Open Meeting Law Complaint against Templeton Municipal Light and Water Plant (TMLWP)

Enclosed is my rebuttal to the response given by counsel Doucette & LaRose regarding my open meeting law complaint against the TMLWP. Supporting documentation is included with this letter.

I have included supporting documents to substantiate my claim that the TMLWP violated the OML.

Documents regarding this complaint:

OML complaint submitted November 18, 2013

Response from TMLWP regarding my OML complaint

Posting of October 23, 2013 water meeting

Minutes from October 23, 2014

Posting of October 23, 2013 Special Town Meeting

On the Attorney General’s website states:

“The Open Meeting Law supports the principle that the democratic process depends on the public having knowledge about the considerations underlying governmental action. The Open Meeting Law requires that most meetings of governmental bodies to be held in public.”

Monday, January 20, 2014

Meetings 1/21/- 1/25

Meetings 1/21/- 1/25

Tuesday 1/21

BOH Westminster Village Inn 9 am

BOS E session 690 Patriots Rd 6:00 pm

BOS 690 Patriots Rd 6:30 pm

Planning Board 690 Patriots Rd 6:30 pm

January 13, 2014 BOS Meeting…the movie

January 13, 2014 BOS Meeting…the movie

Part 1 of the January 13, 2014 BOS Meeting

Part 2 of the January 13, 2014 BOS Meeting

Part 3 of the January 13, 2014 BOS Meeting

Part 4 of the January 13, 2014 BOS Meeting

Family, friends come together to help cover medical costs

TEMPLETON — Abbey MacFarlane is a spark and bundle of energy with red pigtails flying. The three year old wears a long pink tutu and the blue shirt underneath her smile says, ‘I’d trade my brother for a cupcake.’

To see her constant energy, one would assume they are seeing health defined, but underneath the pink crinoline and ear-to-ear grin is a young girl with Cystic Fibrosis and a Cecostomy button that needs flushing multiple times a day.

“Because Abbey has so much trouble now with eating, digestion, and evacuation, she does not want to eat,” said her mother, Michelle McCrillis.

The family has been bringing her to clinics in Boston while doctors work towards finding the cause of her gastrointestinal problems,

Abbey’s father, Robert MacFarlane, said when Abbey goes to Boston, the whole day is filled with appointments.

Mr. MacFarlane has been on disability since 2005 and has become Abbey’s caretaker while Ms. McCrillis works full-time to support the family.

Sunday, January 19, 2014

Bill S1975 Elections...

Bill S1975 Elections...( another unfunded mandate)

The problematic text :

SECTION 11. Chapter 54 of the General Laws is hereby amended by inserting after section 25A the following section:-

Section 25B. (a) The election officers and registrars of every city or town shall allow any qualified voter, as defined in section 1 of chapter 51, to cast a ballot for any biennial state election or primary during the early voting period as set forth in this section including, but not limited, to any city or town election held at the same time. Cities and towns may also provide for early voting in elections not held in conjunction with state elections.

(b) The voting period for early voting shall run: (i) from the tenth business day preceding a primary or general election; provided, however, that if the tenth business day before the primary or election falls on a legal holiday the early voting period shall begin on the first business day prior to the legal holiday, until the close of business on the day preceding the day before the primary or election; and (ii) a total of not less than 10 hours on the Saturday and Sunday immediately preceding the day of the primary or election.

(c) Early voting shall be conducted during the usual business hours of each city or town clerk, except as otherwise provided in subsection (b). A city or town may, in its discretion, provide for additional early voting hours beyond the hours required by this subsection.

(d) Each city and town shall establish an early voting site that shall include a city hall election office or a town hall clerk’s office; provided, however, that if the city or town determines that the office is unavailable or unsuitable for the purposes of early voting, the registrars of each city or town shall identify and provide for an alternative centrally-located, suitable and convenient public building, which may include any building open to the public and used for voting on the day of the primary or election, within each city or town as an early voting site. A city or town may also provide for additional early voting sites at the discretion of the registrars for that city or town. Each early voting site shall be accessible to persons with disabilities.

(e) The designation of an early voting site shall be made not less than 14 days prior to the beginning of the voting period established in subsection (b). Not less than 7 days prior to the commencement of the early voting period and at least once during the period, the registrars for each city or town shall publish the location of the early voting sites as well as the applicable dates and hours. Notice shall be published in every newspaper listed for the city or town in the New England Newspaper & Press Association and shall also be conspicuously posted in the office of the city clerk or on the principal official bulletin board of each city or town, on any other public building considered necessary, on the city or town’s website, if any, and on the website of the state secretary.

(f) At least 21 days prior to each biennial state election or primary, the state secretary shall deliver to each city or town in quantities as the state secretary determines necessary the following papers: (i) official early voting ballots, similar to the official ballot to be used at the election; and (ii) envelopes of sufficient size to contain the ballots specified in clause (i) bearing on their reverse the voter’s affidavit of compliance with the requirements of subsection (h).

(g) An early voting ballot along with an envelope shall be provided to each qualified voter who participates in early voting.

(h) A qualified voter casting a ballot at an early voting site shall complete an affidavit under the regulations promulgated pursuant to this chapter, which shall include a notice of penalties under section 26 of chapter 56.

(i) Prior to the commencement of early voting, the registrars for each city or town shall prepare a list for the early voting sites, containing the names and residences of all persons qualified to vote therein, as the same appear upon the annual register, and shall reasonably transmit the same to the election officers at every early voting site designated by the registrars.

(j) The registrar or presiding official at the early voting site shall cause to be placed on the voting lists opposite the name of a qualified voter who participates in early voting the letters “EV” designating an early voter.

(k) The registrars shall prepare lists of all voters casting ballots during the early voting period and update the voter list in a manner prescribed by the state secretary.
(l) The city or town clerk, on the day of the election, but not later than 3 hours after the opening of the polls, shall transmit all envelopes purporting to contain official early voter ballots to the election officers in the several precincts where the voters whose names appear on the envelopes assert the right to vote. The warden or a deputy shall immediately, after receipt of any envelopes, distinctly announce the name and residence of each voter and check the voter’s name on the voting lists referred to in section 60 of chapter 51, or on the voter’s certificate of supplementary registration attached to the lists as provided in section 51 of said chapter 51 or on the list of specially qualified voters required by section 91A, as the case may be, if it has not already been so checked. The warden or a deputy shall open the envelopes in which the ballot is enclosed in such a manner as not to destroy the affidavit on the envelope, take the ballot from the envelope without opening it or permitting it to be examined and deposit it in the ballot box. All envelopes referred to in this section shall be retained with the ballots cast at the election and shall be preserved and destroyed in the manner provided by law for the retention, preservation or destruction of official ballots.

(m) The state secretary shall promulgate regulations to implement this section.

(n) Section 72 shall not apply to this section.

****************************************************

It's anyone's guess how much this unfunded mandate will cost all towns in Massachusetts.

Outlook for retirees is not rosy

Historically, the stock market has outperformed any other investment over any given ten-year period. The same cannot be said for any five-year period.

For this reason, prudent investors invest in equities, then switch to less profitable but more secure investments within a decade from retirement.

The Federal Reserve's policy of manufacturing low public interest rates and public liquidity are changing the equation. The forced lower interest rates have caused those already in retirement to see huge losses due to low interest rates on savings instruments and low yields on treasuries

The Fed's current $4 trillion balance sheet is increasingly viewed as unsustainable, but any policy to restrain or reverse this trend is potentially catastrophic.

Saturday, January 18, 2014

Gobi announces run for Senator Brewer's seat

Eryn Dion
News Staff Writer

REGIONAL — State Representative Anne Gobi, D-Spencer, of the 5th Worcester District announced her intentions to run for Senator Stephen Brewer’s seat Friday morning.

“I am fortunate to live in this beautiful area with so much to offer. I welcome the opportunity and accept the challenges to work for and represent this Senate District,” she wrote in a press release.

Rep. Gobi currently serves 11 towns, all of which overlap with Senator Brewer’s seat. Should she win, she will take over the state’s second largest senate district, comprised of 28 towns and stretching from Winchendon south to Wales. She said she was excited at the prospect of once again working for towns she lost during redistricting.

“I couldn’t ask for anything more,” she said. “I’m ready to work for these people today.”

Brewer readies for new chapter

After serving 35 years, the state senator announces he will not seek re-election
Eryn Dion
News Staff Writer

REGIONAL — State Senator Stephen Brewer (D-Barre) announced via a press release Thursday he will not seek reelection this year.

“Therefore, as I prepare to embark on a new chapter in my life, I would like to announce that I will not be a candidate for re-election to the State Senate,” he wrote.

Senator Brewer has occupied the State House for 35 years, starting as a legislative aide for Senator Robert Wetmore in 1980.

Town Manager says alleged 2013 shortfall linked to 2012 transfer, end of year reporting

Katie Landeck
News Staff Writer

WINCHENDON — Through-out the School Committee’s and Town Manager Jim Kreidler’s battle over a reported net school spending deficit, Mr. Kreidler has maintained that despite the state’s insistence, the deficit does not exist and the schools were not underfunded.

However, after some additional review, Mr. Kreidler said the town may have accidentally shorted the schools by approximately $40,000 in fiscal year 2012.

State supports Light & Water Department

Department of Revenue weighs in, rules department's budget does not fall under town's legislative body
Eryn Dion
News Staff Writer
TEMPLETON — The state Department of Revenue has ruled that the water department’s budget does not fall under the jurisdiction of the Board of Selectmen and is therefore not subject to their approval or a town vote.

“The water service budget no longer requires approval of the town’s legislative body,” reads a letter for the state department addressed to the board and Light and Water Department General Manager John Driscoll. The letter was written by Director of the Bureau of Accounts Gerard D. Perry.

“These select and advisory board members don’t know just how close they came to a full blown legal battle,” said Mr. Driscoll. “It would have absolutely been against the law for them to suspend processing of our water warrants back in June 2013 if we had not been able to pass a water budget with simple majority from a non-binding vote.”

The decision was made in response to a letter received by the state department inquiring about special legislation combining the light and water departments and the effects it had on the town’s budgetary process.

Country Mischief gets new chef

Store starts off the year with a new look
Eryn Dion
News Staff Writer

TEMPLETON — Country Mischief employee Tammy LaChance balanced precariously on a ladder Tuesday morning as she removed the last bits of yellow floral wallpaper from the store’s upper hallway — leaving the walls bare and ready for a coat of white paint inside the more than 200-year-old building.

“We do this about twice a year,” said owner Gail Whittle. “I just like to direct.”

The renovation was just one of several changes to the store, which is a town landmark. A new chef for the restaurant, Mischievous Chef Shannon Fournier, a Montachusett Vocational Technical School graduate from Winchendon, started in late December. He was discovered through an ad on Craigslist and had been receiving rave reviews.

“He’s great,” Ms. Whittle said. “It’s amazing what he can do.”

Mass. state Sen. Brewer to retire at end of term

Sen. Brewer: 'It is time'

State Sen. Stephen M. Brewer reads to 3rd-graders at Glenwood Elementary School in Rutland on Community Reading Day in 2010. (T&G File Photo/RICK CINCLAIR)

BOSTON — State Sen. Stephen M. Brewer, the Central Massachusetts Democrat who rose from chairman of the Barre Board of Selectmen to become one of the state's most influential legislators as chairman of the Senate Ways and Means Committee, will not seek re-election.

Mr. Brewer, 65, who was a prominent advocate for open space conservation, farmers, sportsmen and veterans, was elected to five terms in the House of Representatives and is currently serving his eighth Senate term.

"Anyone who knows of my work ethic knows that I truly love the people I serve. No one has ever enjoyed public service more. I will truly miss the terrific people I have met at hundreds of events each year," Mr. Brewer said in announcing his decision.

Thursday, January 16, 2014

East Templeton!!! This is for YOU!!!

Town looks to improve infrastructure with CDBG money

Eryn Dion
News Staff Writer

TEMPLETON — The Board of Selectmen voted Monday to designate the village of East Templeton as a ‘target area’ in the town’s 2014 Community Development Block Grant application, putting it next on the list for an infrastructure facelift.

“There are plenty of opportunities for major work in East Templeton,” explained Peter Sanborn, President of Community Opportunities Group, a company out of Boston that helps towns plan and develop improvement projects.

The company has an established relationship with the Templeton and has helped them through the CDBG process in previous years.

Town Coordinator Jeff Ritter agreed with Mr. Sanborn’s recommendation, saying there are many individual problem areas in the village that would benefit greatly from the grant money.

Wednesday, January 15, 2014

Jeffrey Bennett's editorial in its entirety

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Separating fact from fiction in Templeton

Templeton Water Department retains Tighe & Bond to complete a water rate study. Tighe & Bond publishes a Massachusetts water rate survey in 2012. It states: annual costs of $801.00 @ 8.90/1000 gals. No separate business or seasonal rate, no elderly, low income or early payment discounts. I suggest Mr. Driscoll and the commissioners research the work a firm has done and published before hiring them or commenting on their work. The water rate study available on website of Templeton Water shows high salary requirements and high debt, along with building rent of $34,965.00 paid to Templeton Light thru 2010. Statement of Bond scheduled payoff dates; 3.8 million by 2023, 2.3 million by 2027 and 332 thousand by 2044 with no cash reserves. This may have been voted in at Town meeting but someone had to bring it forward, present it and sell it to taxpayers. Selectmen also have to vote to put articles on Town meeting warrant. Records show Gerald Skelton was in charge at Templeton Light during the merge of Light & Water and he benefited financially with salary increases which is available in annual town reports. I support the undoing of the acts of 2000 so as to put water and sewer together where in my opinion it belongs. This would give sewer leverage to collect past due sewer bills. I do not support selectmen being in charge of water as history shows it a bad idea. If undoing one process to make another process happen means the selectmen take charge of water, I hope it is very limited and of short duration.

Separating fact from fiction in Templeton

To The Editor:
Jeffrey Bennett
Templeton

To The Editor:

Templeton Water Department retains Tighe & Bond to complete a water rate study. Tighe & Bond publishes a Massachusetts water rate survey in 2012. It states: annual costs of $801 at $8.90/1000 gallons. No separate business or seasonal rate, no elderly, low income or early payment discounts.

I suggest John Driscoll and the commissioners research the work a firm has done and published before hiring them or commenting on their work. The water rate study available on website of Templeton Water shows high salary requirements and high debt, along with building rent of $34,965 paid to Templeton Light thru 2010.

Statement of bond scheduled payoff dates; $3.8 million by 2023, $2.3 million by 2027 and $332,000 by 2044 with no cash reserves. This may have been voted in at Town Meeting, but someone had to bring it forward, present it and sell it to taxpayers. Selectmen also have to vote to put articles on town meeting warrant.

Records show Gerald Skelton was in charge at Templeton Light during the merge of Light & Water that also saw salary increases, which is available in annual town reports. I support the undoing of the acts of 2000 so as to put water and sewer together, where in my opinion, it belongs. This would give sewer leverage to collect past due sewer bills. I do not support selectmen being in charge of water as history shows it a bad idea. If undoing one process to make another process happen means the selectmen take charge of water, I hope it is very limited and of short duration.

Diane Haley-Brooks wins coveted Board of Selectmen seat

Eryn Dion
News Staff Writer

TEMPLETON — On a rainy Tuesday night election, Diane Haley-Brooks swept the precincts, winning the coveted fifth Board of Selectmen seat.

“I’m excited,” she said after the results were read. “I’m looking forward to getting to work.”

Ms. Brooks defeated former selectmen Robert Mitchell for the seat and her term will last until May when the seat is once again up for re-election.

Wasting no time getting to work, she and her fellow selectmen will officially meet with a potential interim town coordinator candidate tonight.

Town delays posting of new Admin position

Hiring could be postponed until spring

Eryn Dion
News Staff Writer

TEMPLETON — Time constraints and budget issues may prevent the Board of Selectmen from hiring a new Town Administrator until after the budget for Fiscal Year 2015 is approved.

“I don’t see how we can in good conscience hire a full-time town administrator this fiscal year,” said Selectman Julie Farrell.

During Monday’s board meeting, the selectmen unanimously approved a job description for the new position, but refrained from officially posting it due to concerns over when the new administrator should start and payment.

Town Coordinator Jeff Ritter said the process of hiring an administrator is arduous.

School, town at standstill over indirect costs

Katie Landeck
News Staff Writer

WINCHENDON — Town Manager James Kreidler reported to the Board of Selectman on Monday night that the School Committee Chairman Michael Niles and School Superintendent Salah Khelfaoui declined a request to sit on a proposed ad-hoc committee to review the indirect cost agreement which has become a major point of contention between the school and town officials.

The agreement — signed in 2005 by Mr. Kreidler, the former superintendent and three members of the school committee including Mr. Niles — established the school-related items the town is responsible for funding. These expenses include administrative services, retirement funds, unemployment assessment, Medicare assessment, school choice and charter, as well as several types of insurance.

Spencer-East Brookfield schools get scathing state report

By Kim Ring TELEGRAM & GAZETTE STAFF

SPENCER — The Spencer East-Brookfield Regional School District has seen a decrease in student population, spends less per pupil than comparable districts, has low performance scores for students and does not evaluate teachers, according to a report from the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

The 61-page report details problems evaluators found during a site visit from June 10 to 12, during which they looked at records, spoke with district employees and parents, and sat in during classroom hours.

The report also contains information about the district's recent budget crisis, blaming the deficit on a "seriously flawed" financial plan created by the former superintendent. The report doesn't name him, but the superintendent at the time was Reza Namin, who resigned in February. The report says school committee members "allowed the budget to go forward in spite of warnings from staff and open conflict about its credibility."

Grim picture painted of Shrewsbury's fiscal plight

By Elaine Thompson TELEGRAM & GAZETTE STAFF
ethompson@telegram.com

SHREWSBURY — As the town previews its future financial condition, little or no help is expected from the state and federal governments and there are limited opportunities for additional cost reductions or expanded commercial revenue, Town Manager Daniel Morgado told selectmen Tuesday night.

Mr. Morgado's comments were made during the continuation of a financial workshop for the board.

He said the town's opportunity to generate significant revenue from commercial growth is limited because of the town's low tax rate, scarcity of land, and water and sewer capacity limitations.

He said all of the commercial, industrial and new growth in Shrewsbury since 2000 totaled $112.1 million. The 111-acre Norhthboro Crossing shopping plaza in Northboro generated $108.1 million in new growth.

In order for Shrewsbury to generate $5 million in revenue, four $100 million projects, the size of Northboro Crossing, would have to be developed. "But first we'd have to find 111 acres. There are not many large wide open parcels of land left in town," he said.

DeRensis named a superlawyer for 9th time

TEMPLETON – Paul DeRensis, Templeton town counsel, was named in November as one of 2013’s New England Super Lawyers along with four other members of his firm, Deutsch Williams Brooks DeRensis & Holland, P.C.

Mr. DeRensis’ practice is concentrated in the area of municipal law, and he was one of only 10 lawyers in New England given recognition as a Super Lawyer in the government/ cities/municipalities law area throughout New England. This is the ninth time he has been so recognized.

Mr. DeRensis is a graduate of Harvard College and Harvard Law School, and is admitted to practice in New York and Massachusetts and in various federal courts including the U.S. Supreme Court. He serves as town counsel to a number of Massachusetts municipalities.

Former mayor eyed for town's interim position

Eryn Dion
News Staff Writer

TEMPLETON — The Board of Selectmen hinted at Monday night’s meeting that they might be close to finding an interim town coordinator to fill a posiiton left open by Jeffery Ritter.

Currently serving an interim position with a town in Franklin County, the possible contender was described as a “very qualified individual” by board Chairman Jeffery Bennett.

“I don’t know how we lucked out in this way,” he said during the meeting.

Tuesday, January 14, 2014

Election results

Election Results

Diane Haley-Brooks 133 119 115 367

Robert Mitchell 43 66 71 180

Non - Binding Ballot Question

YES 62 55 78

NO 115 137 102

Be Heard - Templeton, MA

Tomorrow is Special Election Day. A group of people signed a petition to have the town hold a special election to fill the BOS seat vacated by former selectmen Wilder after she chose to resign towards the end of her term. The names on this petition make it very clear that this election is being held because the School Committee (not officially) wanted it to happen. It is absolutely within the citizen’s of Templeton right to call for this election. It will cost the town $5,000 to hold this election for someone who will hold a 4 month term. Selectman Robinson at a past BOS meeting supported the election by saying that this person might have a plan to bring in $50,000. Having read all public material available by both candidates, it is clear that there is no plan to bring in any money to the town, certainly not within the four month time frame. So, is this just a waste of time and money brought to us by the citizens of Templeton…probably. But it is going to happen, no getting around that expense at this time. So who to vote for? Both candidates have a following in town. Both candidates claim to be for the betterment of Templeton as a whole.

VOTE!

Please

Vote

Today

Where: High School Gym

When : 11:00 am – 7:00 pm

Exercise your right to vote!

Templeton Voters Manipulated

Templeton Voters Manipulated

Once again our little town has been forced into having an election to replace a select person for 4 short months. At this time the town does not have the financial resources to do so. So many times in the past, the special interests in the town of Templeton have let the voters be used to get it their way. Change not always favorable to the majority of the voters. Many stacked meetings have allowed the few to get what they want and have led us down the dark road we now are forced to travel. Why it is the people who vote to continue this behavior are not outnumbered? A vote to reconsider the chapter 93 acts of 2000 is a prize from their past. The fact is if the law was never passed the select board may have had to borrow the 6+ million and we would be in the hole but at least we would have some say and input as to how the business is run. Not like it is now with the rates lied about and future intentions to spend as the commission will on whatever they want. The Commissioners say it’s to be compliant with the regulations. With all the money they spent on fences and gates to be compliant why do we see them open and not locked up?

Monday, January 13, 2014

Meetings 1/13/14 – 1/17/14

Meetings 1/13/14 – 1/17/14

Monday, January 13^th

BOS (Executive session) 690 Patriots Rd 5:30 pm

BOS 690 Patriots Rd 6:30 pm

Community Development 6:45 pm

BOH 2 School St 7:00 pm

Tuesday, January 14^th

ELECTION High School Gym 11:00 – 7:00 pm

TMLWP Water Meeting Bridge St. 6:00 pm

TMLWP Light Meeting Bridge St. 6:30 pm

Wednesday, January 15

Housing Authority Phoenix Ct. 4:00 pm

Advisory Board 690 Patriots Rd 6:30 pm

Cemetery and Parks 690 Patriots Rd 6:30 pm

Thursday, January 16

CPC 690 Patriots Rd 6:00 pm

Open Space 690 Patriots Rd 6:30 pm

Senior Center oversight Scout Hall 6:30 pm