Board Continues Work on Repairing Flood Damage
by Gazette Staff
WOLCOTT – At its August 2 regular meeting, the Wolcott Select Board’s agenda was dominated by flood-related issues.
Board vice chair Kurt Klein noted that the private burial policy was tabled to allow more time for review, a resident on Gulf Road has asked to meet with the board regarding the speed limit between the bridge and Whitetail Drive, and the Portolet installed by the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail will be canceled. Klein also reported that the town was awarded a safety grant that will reimburse up to $10,000 for road safety signs. Progress has been made on upgrading the town’s website. Although some changes have not yet been completed, the staging site is available for the board to review.
The Litter Committee sponsored this year’s Bulk Waste Day at the transfer station on July 22. A lot of bulk items were collected, along with tires at half price. A lot of flood damage debris was collected, as well. The committee will continue to look at tire recycling options.
Work is proceeding on the town’s insurance claim. Some residents are seeking a buyout of their properties.
Pursuant to a VTrans Curve Project, a set of small curve safety signs will be installed this fall. VTrans inspected bridges following the flood. It was recommended that the debris be removed from under the bridges on Gulf Road, Corley Road, and Elmore Pond Road. The town does not have the necessary long-arm excavator required and Klein will check with VTrans.
The road crew have been ditching along West Hill Road. A culvert is now needed on the McCammon property to prevent water from pouring into a pasture. In order to do the work, a driveway permit is required. Klein asked that the $25 fee be waived since the road foreman has already inspected the area. The board had no objection.
The transfer station attendant requested time off on July 29 and 30 and wished to be paid for those days. The request was denied. The concern was that a precedent would be set. Other part-time employees do not receive paid time off.
Board Chair Linda Martin and Vice Chair KIein attended a Recovery Workshop. Assistance has been requested for municipal buildings and roads. Martin suggested hiring someone to oversee repair work to Flat Iron Road. Their salary would be reimbursed by FEMA. Engineering bids will be required for the project. The board then discussed damage in North Wolcott and paving on North Wolcott Road.
Next, the board discussed the request to block access to Lurvey Road where it intersects with West Hill Road. The matter was tabled to allow for more research.
The board then voted to establish a town wastewater committee.
