Selectboard Vice Chair Kurt Klein Submits Letter of Resignation
by Gazette Staff
WOLCOTT – At its regular meeting on September 6, the Wolcott Select Board discussed safety on Gulf Road, ongoing work to request reimbursements for flood damage repairs, and former vice chair Kurt Klein formally submitted his letter of resignation.
Paul McGrath, a Gulf Road resident, reiterated his concerns regarding speed and safety along the road. A traffic study was conducted at three locations on Gulf Road between June 5 and June 12. Results of the study were discussed at previous select board meetings. Former select board Vice Chair Kurt Klein provided background on recent discussions about the road. Klein recommended that the town post cautionary signs by the bridge. It was suggested that a radar speed sign be installed. McGrath will research the cost of such signs. The matter will be discussed further at a future board meeting.
Discussion on the Local Control Commission and the annual meeting to set the water rate were tabled.
In the Project Manager Report, it was announced that the one-ton truck used by the highway department was reported stolen. Also, ServPro will start work on the town garage and fire department to address the mold issue. An order is being placed for a new overhead door for the garage. Inquiries have been made regarding the availability of the 12,000 square-foot space owned by MSI in case it becomes necessary to relocate the garage and fire department.
Work continues on preparing the town’s insurance claim for damages caused during the flooding. The Vermont League of Cities and Towns (VLCT) recently informed the town that there is a $5,000,000 cap for flood damage throughout the state. It is unclear at this time how much reimbursement the town may receive. Work continues on documenting flood damage for FEMA reimbursement.
The project manager is receiving daily reports on what the road crew is working on. That information will be passed on to board members. The road crew continues to work on road segments as required. Brush hogging will start soon at the transfer station.
Board discussion of bids for town hall heat and water, and for repairing damaged roads was tabled.
Board chair Linda Martin announced that Wolcott has been awarded a grant in the amount of $580,000 from the US Forest Service to be used in purchasing land for the town forest. Martin said that she was pleased with the result as this was a very competitive grant process. Closing on the purchase is likely to be in January at the soonest.
Board vice chair Kurt Klein submitted his letter of resignation from the select board. Klein announced his intention to resign at a previous meeting. The vacancy will be posted for 10 days. The board will consider candidates to fill the remainder of the term at the September 20 meeting.
The next regular select board meeting is scheduled for September 20.
