Minutes of the Washington County Commissioners

December 12, 2013

Minutes of the Washington County Commissioners’ Regular Meeting held December 12, 2013 in the Commissioners’ Conference Room Machias, Maine ------Attending the meeting were: Commissioner Christopher M. Gardner Commissioner Vinton E. Cassidy Betsy Fitzgerald, County Manager Carla Manchester, Administration William Tuell, Downeast Coastal Press Ken Daye, SCEC Hillary Savage, MVNO Jill C. Holmes, Treasurer Judith A. Alexander, Treasurer’s Office Larry Post, City of Eastport Sharon D. Strout, Deeds Darlene Wallace, Deeds Sheriff Smith, WCSO M.F. Hinerman, EMA Carlene Holmes, Probate

Commissioner Crowley was not present. ------Commissioner Gardner called the Executive Department business to order at 4:31 p.m.

AGENDA ITEM: Approval of the Public Hearing for F/Y 2014 Budget Meeting Minutes (November 14, 2013) (Cassidy / Gardner, 2-0)

AGENDA ITEM: Approval of the Regular Meeting Minutes (November 14, 2013) (Cassidy / Gardner, 2-0)

AGENDA ITEM: Monthly and Quarterly Reports The Commissioners were provided monthly reports in their meeting packets. (See attached)

Sheriff Smith expressed his concern for a recent cut in the Maine State Police patrol coverage in Washington County. According to Sheriff December 12, 2013 101 Smith, the State Police plan to reduce the number of troopers conducting patrols for what has been a long-standing resource- sharing agreement. To add to frustrations, the Sheriff stated that he has concerns about funding issues for the jail. He reported that the State may not have the funds to support thirteen jails in the State of Maine. Commissioner Gardner agreed that the jail consolidation did not work out as planned, but the Commissioners will work with the County Manager and the Sheriff’s Office to find a way to run the County jail. Commissioner Cassidy also agreed, stating that he understands where the Sheriff is coming from and that the County will need to wait and see the final proposal. On a final note, the Sheriff stated his frustration also in the decision for the renovation / addition to the Court House. He said there are competing needs-funds to keep patrol coverage for the safety of the citizens or funds to keep the jail open and functioning. Sheriff Smith stated that he is looking for support. Commissioner Gardner acknowledged that the State must decide what is important to fund. Commissioner Cassidy pointed out that the decision was made by the people of Maine. Dennis Higgins spoke as a concerned taxpayer and participant on the Board of Visitors in support of Sheriff Smith’s concerns. He reported that statistics show that the usage of the District Court and Superior Court is declining. Commissioner Gardner concluded the discussion by reiterating what he has previously stated; the Commissioners plan to continue to ask questions working through the process slowly and prudently. The Commissioners assured Sheriff Smith that they will keep the Sheriff’s Office and the jail’s best interest in mind. Sheriff Smith thanked the Commissioners for their support and consideration.

AGENDA ITEM: Payroll Status Change Notices

Christopher Polk resigned from his part-time custodian position due to health issues.

*MOTION* Commissioner Cassidy moved to accept the resignation of Christopher Polk effective 11/15/13. Commissioner Gardner seconded the motion which passed 2-0.

AGENDA ITEM: Six-month Introductory Certificate

A six month certificate was presented and signed for Katie Searles.

AGENDA ITEM: Approval of Commissioners’ Meeting Dates for 2014 December 12, 2013

The schedule for the Commissioners’ Meeting dates was presented with all meetings scheduled for the second Thursday of each month. County Manager requested that the February meeting be held the first Thursday of the month, February 6th, as she will be attending Hurricane school the second week of February. Commissioner Gardner requested that the June meeting be changed to June 5th due to a conflict in his schedule. By consensus, the Commissioners approved the schedule of meetings presented with a change to the February and June dates only.

AGENDA ITEM: Approval of Holiday schedule for 2014

By consensus, the holiday schedule for 2014 was adopted as presented.

AGENDA ITEM: ACS contract renewal for Deeds

With the Recommendation of Register of Deeds Sharon Strout;

*MOTION* Commissioner Cassidy moved to approve the five year Service Agreement renewal between ACS Enterprise Solutions, LLC and Washington County commencing December 1st, 2013. Commissioner Gardner seconded the motion which passed 2-0.

AGENDA ITEM: Tax Abatement decision

The tax abatement for Chablis vs. City of Eastport was denied.

Before adjourning the meeting, Commissioner Gardner stated that Sunrise County Economic Council’s Executive Director Harold Clossey accepted the appointment as President and Chief Executive Officer of Maine Development Foundation. Commissioner Gardner praised Harold for the tremendous things that he has done for Washington County while with SCEC and has left SCEC with a strong foundation. Commissioner Gardner stated that Harold has earned the Commissioners admiration and wish him the absolute best.

Adjournment 5:14 p.m.

Attest:______Carla J.R. Manchester, Admin. Asst. December 12, 2013