Notes from the Budget Workshop held Monday, September 22 (originally advertised for Tuesday, but later changed to Monday), at 7:00 PM, at the Keene Town Hall. The following Town Board Members were present: William B. Ferebee, Supervisor, Paul R. Martin, Robert M. Biesemeyer, Marcy Neville and Lawrence Jaques, Members of Council. Also present: Paula McDonough and Wendy Reynolds, Clerks to the Supervisor and Ellen Estes, Town Clerk.

With everyone present, discussion began at 6:55 PM.

The first discussion was in regards to the percentage to be given to the employees. Mr. Biesemeyer initiated the discussion asking what percent was being given; Mr. Ferebee said 3% across the board. Mrs. McDonough said it’s not fair for the part time officials to get the same percent as those who work full time. Mr. Jaques said he disagreed, saying the Town has a good benefit package along with paying well.

The following items were discussed:
- the Justice equipment was lowered from $4,000 to $2,000,
- it was mentioned that the Assessor budget will continue to stay in the ball park of $30,000 even with the change to Sole Assessor,
- it was mentioned that the $45,000 on the AMR line under Attorney Contractual will be left alone,
- Data Processing was mentioned and not discussed,
- Mr. Jaques asked what garage contractual was, Mrs. McDonough explained it was for anything other than electricity, heat and telephone. He asked if it could be lowered to $3,000, she suggested $4,400.
- Mr. Martin said he had priced a pressurized outside boiler @ $6,000.
- Mr. Jaques asked what environmental control contractual was for, Mrs. McDonough explained flooding, etc. After discussion it was decided this will not be changed.

The next discussion was in regards to buildings rent. Because the rent for the Assessors building will be going up to $500 a month, a discussion was held regarding whether Little Peaks should pay something for their use of the Community Center. It was suggested they could be asked what their finances are, Mr. Biesemeyer who was not in favor of them paying rent, suggested that the Board “test the water” before making any decisions.

More changes/discussions:
- Refuse/Garbage Personal Services will be lowered from $44,000 to $41,000.
- the electric, brush and cost of refuse will all be checked,
- it was mentioned that money will not need to be put into the celebrations category this year, saving $15,000 in the budget,
- Mr. Jaques asked what machine contractual paid, Mrs. McDonough said that was for repair and parts, Mr. Jaques commented on the raise between 2007 and 2009.
- Mr. Jaques asked what service to other government was, Mrs. McDonough explained that is used to pay wages that come back.
- There was discussion regarding the percentages for benefits not seeming to match for Water District #1 and Water District #2.
- Mrs. McDonough also mentioned that personal service for Water District #2 may need to be raised for someone to be on site during construction.

BTI was discussed, and whether to continue with the program or not. The general conscientious was to keep it at least another year before deciding. Ms. Neville again suggested asking for a report.

Mr. Jaques said he was not interested in changing the health insurance policy, he said he would just like to see other options.

With all work being complete for tonight, the meeting adjourned at 7:38 PM.

Ellen S. Estes, Town Clerk
September 23, 2008

William B. Ferebee, Supervisor
Paul R. Martin, Councilperson
Robert M. Biesemeyer, Councilperson
Marcy A. Neville, Councilperson
Lawrence Jaques, Councilperson