July 20, 2008
Fosters
(These are partial minutes as they pertain to the case of the Milton 16)
All three selectmen, Tom Gray, Leo Lessard and Charles Karcher, were present at the recent meeting.
Also present were Larry Wheeler, Peter Rizzo, Anne Clark, Bob Naeger, Nancy Johnson, Lue Snyder, Larry Brown, Cheryl McNally, Tom Parks, Bette White, Ed Naile, Jim McNally, Frank Merrill, David Gibson, Bruce Woodruff, Jean Abel and Brian Boyers.
Chairman Gray introduced Rick Bates from Municipal Resources. The board signed a contract to hire Bates for six weeks with a review at the end of the six weeks and an option to extend the contract. Bates will serve as town administrator while the selectmen conduct a search for a new town administrator.
Tom Parks, of 23 Utah Way, told the board that he’d received notice from North Coast Railroad indicating that they intend to close access to Utah Way at the railroad crossing.
Lessard noted that the road belongs to the water district. Years ago the state had deeded it to the town, and the town then deeded it to the water district because it is adjacent to the water district’s well.
Lessard suggested residents file a petition with the town regarding placing a gate at the Utah Way crossing.
Ed Naile, representing the Coalition of New Hampshire Taxpayers, told the group he was contacted by residents and will help with the issue. He requested any copies of deeds or titles to properties regarding the right-of-way and ownership of town or political subdivisions of land adjacent to Ohio Street.
One resident told the board he felt intimidated by the letters from the railroad. Putting up a barrier at the railroad crossing would prevent homeowners from reaching their homes. He also noted that the conductor is not blowing the whistle before he reaches this area, which could be hazardous to summer residents who may not be aware of the railroad’s scheduled runs.