The FWC Board mets the third Thursday of each month from 7-8:30pm in the Franklin Homestead FELCO Room. Everyone interested in the FWC activities are welcome to join us.
Board Meeting Minutes
The Franklin Watershed Committee
Minutes of January 18, 2018
7:00 P.M. FELCO Room, Franklin Homestead
Call to Order
In Attendance: Hal Bill
Peter Benevento (on phone) Rob Evans
Marion Benevento (on phone) Judith McLaughlin
Emily Porter Goff Rob Cormier
Steve Comeau Paul Stanley
Approval of the 10/19, 11/16, 12/14/17 minutes and treasurer’s report
The minutes and treasurers reports were approved.
Treasurers Report
The treasurer provided the monthly report. The January expenses totaled $1410.16 and the checkbook balance on January 15, 2017 was $11,541.83.
A report of the financial outlook for the FWC was provided. Pending grants, donations and reimbursements total $20,466 and the current checkbook balance is $11,541.83 totaling anticipated funds of $32,007. It was reported that there are not any large expenses anticipated at this time and the general expenses for the FWC are minor. The primary use of these funds is to pay the coordinator and we will have enough to pay her for the near future. In order to pay for any projects in the watershed and to continue with our coordinator, additional grants are needed.
Coordinators Report
The coordinator provided an update of pending grants including several with the Lake Champlain Basin Program.
Wiki Watershed has offered to sponsor a free webinar that focuses on watersheds. The webinar is schedule for March 15 at 5:00 PM at the Franklin Homestead.
The coordinator discussed an upcoming Girl Scout Presentation which will include soil testing.
Legislative Breakfast/Legislative Hearing
Rob Evans reported on the Legislative Breakfast and stated that we received a good response from the members attending the Breakfast. He stated that he had been approached about providing testimony to the House Committee on Natural Resources, Fish and Wildlife relative to a proposed bill which would designate Lake Carmi a Lake in Crisis. The hearing is scheduled for February 8. It was agreed that Rob and others would provide testimony. Rob will coordinate the effort. Providing testimony will help bring our issues to the forefront. It was suggested we send letters to legislators support the pending bill.
Other Business
Discussions were held concerning tile drains, the dam and potential projects in the watershed. The State will be sending an independent contractor to assess the dam. This will be funded by the state.
A discussion was held concerning an informational meeting with VT Law School. The meeting can be arranged through the Toxics Action Center. It was agreed that the Law School should be invited to the March meeting.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 P.M.
Respectively Submitted,
Marion Benevento, Secretary, Treasurer
The Franklin Watershed Committee
Minutes of March 22, 2018
4:10 P.M. FELCO Room, Franklin Homestead
Call to Order
In Attendance: Hal Bill
Peter Benevento (on phone) Greg Tatro
Marion Benevento (on phone) Judith McLaughlin
Emily Porter Goff Rob Cormier
Steve Comeau Paul Stanley
Casey Robinson Heather Murphy
Jared Willey Shaina Kasper
Tom Benton, St Albans Messenger
Approval of the minutes and treasurer’s report
The minutes of 1/18/2018 and treasurer’s reports for February and March were approved.
Treasurers Report
The treasurer provided the monthly reports for February and March. The total expenses for February were $2,081.93 and the total expenses for March were $1,592.56. During this period the FWC received grant reimbursements totaling $16,761. and a donation from the Town of Franklin in the amount of $5,000.00. The checkbook balance on March 15 was $31,733.64.
The treasurer reported that the year end audit of the FWC books was completed by the town of Franklin with no change. In addition the Federal tax return for the FWC is being prepared and will be filed in April.
Coordinators Report
The coordinator reported on the Girl Scout program which was well received. She stated that we have received a grant for 6 outreach programs and that she is looking for corporate sponsorships to help fund additional programs. Additionally, she stated that we do not have a grant to cover her expenses for the work she does for the TMDL.
The coordinator is actively looking for 2 boat greeters and is hoping to find local residents to fill the positions.
The coordinator advised that we have approximately $30,000. in grants.
PRESIDENTS REPORT
The president stated that there has been water sampling for 11 years and we are looking to have spring sampling to determine what sediment is coming into the lake in the spring. We are also considering adding additional sampling sites to the 19 that are currently used.
He stated we will be getting an AmeriCorps volunteer for next year and that person will begin working for the FWC in August.
The president stated that we need an explanation of the runoff from the Dam and we should consider the possibility of hiring our own expert to conduct a survey. The coordinator will look into any potential grants that could pay for the survey.
A discussion was held concerning the new outlet which doesn’t appear to be working properly. There appears to be different elevations which may be causing a problem. Greg Tatro will look into the issue.
The President stated that potential watershed projects are Marsh Brook and Toll Neighborhood Road.
Additionally he stated we need to keep pressure on our legislators concerning the water quality bills pending, especially the Franklin representatives.
Jared Willey
Willey provided information concerning the proposed aeration project including the types and cost of the upkeep of the project. He stated there is a lack of communication and information from the State.
Other Business
An informational conference call was held with Jill Heaps, attorney for the Vermont Law School, concerning the health and financial issues associated with the deterioration of the Lake. A discussion was held relative to potential actions to help with the crisis. Heaps stated she would be available to meet with board members at a future date.
The meeting adjourned at 6:30 p.m.
Respectively Submitted,
Marion Benevento, Secretary, Treasurer
The Franklin Watershed Committee
Minutes of April 19, 2018
7:00 P.M. FELCO Room, Franklin Homestead
Call to Order
In Attendance: Hal Bill
Peter Benevento (on phone) Casey Robinson
Marion Benevento (on phone) Judith McLaughlin
Emily Porter Goff Rob Cormier
Rob Evans Pat Hayes
Approval of the minutes and treasurer’s report
The minutes of March 22, 2018 meeting and treasurer’s report for April were approved. The April expenses totaled $1,627.45. The checkbook balance reported for the period ending April 18 was $35,335.19. It was reported that the FWC received a donation from Northrup Grumman Corp in the amount of $5,000.00
Coordinators Report
The coordinator reported that we have received a LaRosa Grant totaling $7,335.00 for data analysis and follow up to the work performed at the Kittel Pond. Additionally, we are applying for an ERP Grant to complete work on the Toll Neighborhood Road. The coordinator asked all board members to track their hours to be used in various grant requirements for like kind match.
PRESIDENTS REPORT
The President stated that the FWC should conduct a septic social and conduct outreach. It was suggested that all camps be contacted and the FWC offer dye tablets for testing of the septics. It was also suggested that all camps be encouraged to test their systems and that the FWC investigate the possibility of grant money to help fix septic problems if they arise. The board voted to conduct the above activities.
A discussion was held concerning legislative bills 260 and 730. It was stated that it appears the Legislature is leaning towards combining the two bills. It was stated that we must keep pressure on the Legislature to get these bills passed.
It was suggested that we invite Heather Darby and Laura Di Pietro to a FWC meeting to answer questions concerning their testimony before the Legislature relative to these bills.
The president stated he believes the State is planning projects on the Marsh Brook but we don’t have any information. When the contracts are awarded the information may become available.
The president advised there is a meeting on the Dam issue on May 7th. Additionally, we need to follow up on our potential legal issues and keep pursuing the Phosphorus Reduction Plan.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:35.
The Franklin Watershed Committee
Minutes of May 17, 2018
7:00 P.M. FELCO Room, Franklin Homestead
Call to Order
In Attendance: Hal Bill
Peter Benevento Steve Comeau
Marion Benevento Paul Stanley
Greg Tatro
Approval of the minutes and treasurer’s report
As a quorum was not present, the reports could not be approved. A discussion was held of the current financial condition of the FWC. There is currently $ 31,629.63 available with no major expenses anticipated. The primary expense for the FWC is the coordinators salary. It was noted that the boat greeter would be paid from the general fund but these payments would be reimbursed by grant. It was agreed that the President had the authority to authorize up to $500.00 in expenses incurred by the coordinator.
Coordinators Report
The coordinator was unavailable; a written report had been provided and discussed. The coordinator will work to implement the current grants. A discussion was held concerning possible grants available to improved private roads and how this could be coordinated with land owners and road owners.
PRESIDENTS REPORT
A discussion was held concerning the septic outreach. Literature needs to be obtained and organized to provide to all camps regarding septics. The possibility was also discussed of obtaining dye for the campers to perform a dye test on their septics. Road Captains would be needed to contact and provide the information to the campers.
The President stated he had been contacted by Dexter LeFavour of Tota & Howard in St Johnsbury, a company that installs public septic systems and the possibility of one being utilized at Lake Carmi. It was decided to have him come to a joint meeting of the FWC and the LCCA to discuss septic solutions.
The President continued that there is still no information on the Marsh Brook improvements being made by the State. There will be an Action Plan report presented at the next TMDL meeting.
The Lake in Crisis bill in the Governor’s office with the funding removed.
A discussion was held concerning the Dam. The State is contracting to have a hydrological study of the dam and outlet at Mill Pond to determine options available to improve the dam and water quality. At this point no removal of the boards and no fluctuations in the level of the water will be allowed and there will be no dredging done. The Dewing culvert is 2inches higher than the old culvert, but this does not make a difference.
Jill Harps from the VT Law School has advised that a law suit will be very expensive and difficult. She will have her law student’s research improving the TMDL, improving transparency with the State, and improving relationships through mediation.
Paul Stanley stated that the MRBA held outreach with the farmers which were successful. He continued that the RAPS of 4 plus acres of land are covered. Paul continued that he felt we should concentrate on contacting small parcel land owners who rent their land to individuals who are bringing manure into the watershed.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:30.
Respectively Submitted,
Marion Benevento, Secretary, Treasurer
The Franklin Watershed Committee
Minutes of July 19, 2018
7:05 P.M. FELCO Room, Franklin Homestead
Call to Order
In Attendance: Hal Bill
Peter Benevento Steve Comeau
Marion Benevento Paul Stanley
Greg Tatro Rob Cormier
Judith McLaughlin Sue Prash
Emily Porter Goff
Approval of the minutes and treasurer’s report
The minutes of the June 2018 meetings were approved. The Financial Report for July was also approved. A discussion was held of the current financial condition of the FWC. There is currently $31,988.71 available with no major expenses anticipated.
Coordinators Report
The coordinator reported that are no major changes in grants and completing the grants is ongoing. She stated that she is reviewing a workplan relative to Toll Neighborhood road, but it requires the cooperation of farmers who own land on the road. The Coordinator stated that we will be getting an Americorp member for 20 hours a week beginning in the fall.
PRESIDENTS REPORT
The material for the Septic Outreach has been received and we will be stuffing the envelopes and distributing the material to all camps on the
Lake.
The President stated he had been in contact with the Vermont Law school and they would be requesting an extension to reply to the Crisis Plan. It was suggested a possibility of a new TMDL and a more effective agreement.
There will be a meeting on August 1st to demonstrate possible septic systems for the lake and the cost share involved.
the Annual Meeting will be September 20, 2018.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:45.
Respectively Submitted,
Marion Benevento, Secretary, Treasurer
Minutes of January 18, 2018
7:00 P.M. FELCO Room, Franklin Homestead
Call to Order
In Attendance: Hal Bill
Peter Benevento (on phone) Rob Evans
Marion Benevento (on phone) Judith McLaughlin
Emily Porter Goff Rob Cormier
Steve Comeau Paul Stanley
Approval of the 10/19, 11/16, 12/14/17 minutes and treasurer’s report
The minutes and treasurers reports were approved.
Treasurers Report
The treasurer provided the monthly report. The January expenses totaled $1410.16 and the checkbook balance on January 15, 2017 was $11,541.83.
A report of the financial outlook for the FWC was provided. Pending grants, donations and reimbursements total $20,466 and the current checkbook balance is $11,541.83 totaling anticipated funds of $32,007. It was reported that there are not any large expenses anticipated at this time and the general expenses for the FWC are minor. The primary use of these funds is to pay the coordinator and we will have enough to pay her for the near future. In order to pay for any projects in the watershed and to continue with our coordinator, additional grants are needed.
Coordinators Report
The coordinator provided an update of pending grants including several with the Lake Champlain Basin Program.
Wiki Watershed has offered to sponsor a free webinar that focuses on watersheds. The webinar is schedule for March 15 at 5:00 PM at the Franklin Homestead.
The coordinator discussed an upcoming Girl Scout Presentation which will include soil testing.
Legislative Breakfast/Legislative Hearing
Rob Evans reported on the Legislative Breakfast and stated that we received a good response from the members attending the Breakfast. He stated that he had been approached about providing testimony to the House Committee on Natural Resources, Fish and Wildlife relative to a proposed bill which would designate Lake Carmi a Lake in Crisis. The hearing is scheduled for February 8. It was agreed that Rob and others would provide testimony. Rob will coordinate the effort. Providing testimony will help bring our issues to the forefront. It was suggested we send letters to legislators support the pending bill.
Other Business
Discussions were held concerning tile drains, the dam and potential projects in the watershed. The State will be sending an independent contractor to assess the dam. This will be funded by the state.
A discussion was held concerning an informational meeting with VT Law School. The meeting can be arranged through the Toxics Action Center. It was agreed that the Law School should be invited to the March meeting.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 P.M.
Respectively Submitted,
Marion Benevento, Secretary, Treasurer
The Franklin Watershed Committee
Minutes of March 22, 2018
4:10 P.M. FELCO Room, Franklin Homestead
Call to Order
In Attendance: Hal Bill
Peter Benevento (on phone) Greg Tatro
Marion Benevento (on phone) Judith McLaughlin
Emily Porter Goff Rob Cormier
Steve Comeau Paul Stanley
Casey Robinson Heather Murphy
Jared Willey Shaina Kasper
Tom Benton, St Albans Messenger
Approval of the minutes and treasurer’s report
The minutes of 1/18/2018 and treasurer’s reports for February and March were approved.
Treasurers Report
The treasurer provided the monthly reports for February and March. The total expenses for February were $2,081.93 and the total expenses for March were $1,592.56. During this period the FWC received grant reimbursements totaling $16,761. and a donation from the Town of Franklin in the amount of $5,000.00. The checkbook balance on March 15 was $31,733.64.
The treasurer reported that the year end audit of the FWC books was completed by the town of Franklin with no change. In addition the Federal tax return for the FWC is being prepared and will be filed in April.
Coordinators Report
The coordinator reported on the Girl Scout program which was well received. She stated that we have received a grant for 6 outreach programs and that she is looking for corporate sponsorships to help fund additional programs. Additionally, she stated that we do not have a grant to cover her expenses for the work she does for the TMDL.
The coordinator is actively looking for 2 boat greeters and is hoping to find local residents to fill the positions.
The coordinator advised that we have approximately $30,000. in grants.
PRESIDENTS REPORT
The president stated that there has been water sampling for 11 years and we are looking to have spring sampling to determine what sediment is coming into the lake in the spring. We are also considering adding additional sampling sites to the 19 that are currently used.
He stated we will be getting an AmeriCorps volunteer for next year and that person will begin working for the FWC in August.
The president stated that we need an explanation of the runoff from the Dam and we should consider the possibility of hiring our own expert to conduct a survey. The coordinator will look into any potential grants that could pay for the survey.
A discussion was held concerning the new outlet which doesn’t appear to be working properly. There appears to be different elevations which may be causing a problem. Greg Tatro will look into the issue.
The President stated that potential watershed projects are Marsh Brook and Toll Neighborhood Road.
Additionally he stated we need to keep pressure on our legislators concerning the water quality bills pending, especially the Franklin representatives.
Jared Willey
Willey provided information concerning the proposed aeration project including the types and cost of the upkeep of the project. He stated there is a lack of communication and information from the State.
Other Business
An informational conference call was held with Jill Heaps, attorney for the Vermont Law School, concerning the health and financial issues associated with the deterioration of the Lake. A discussion was held relative to potential actions to help with the crisis. Heaps stated she would be available to meet with board members at a future date.
The meeting adjourned at 6:30 p.m.
Respectively Submitted,
Marion Benevento, Secretary, Treasurer
The Franklin Watershed Committee
Minutes of April 19, 2018
7:00 P.M. FELCO Room, Franklin Homestead
Call to Order
In Attendance: Hal Bill
Peter Benevento (on phone) Casey Robinson
Marion Benevento (on phone) Judith McLaughlin
Emily Porter Goff Rob Cormier
Rob Evans Pat Hayes
Approval of the minutes and treasurer’s report
The minutes of March 22, 2018 meeting and treasurer’s report for April were approved. The April expenses totaled $1,627.45. The checkbook balance reported for the period ending April 18 was $35,335.19. It was reported that the FWC received a donation from Northrup Grumman Corp in the amount of $5,000.00
Coordinators Report
The coordinator reported that we have received a LaRosa Grant totaling $7,335.00 for data analysis and follow up to the work performed at the Kittel Pond. Additionally, we are applying for an ERP Grant to complete work on the Toll Neighborhood Road. The coordinator asked all board members to track their hours to be used in various grant requirements for like kind match.
PRESIDENTS REPORT
The President stated that the FWC should conduct a septic social and conduct outreach. It was suggested that all camps be contacted and the FWC offer dye tablets for testing of the septics. It was also suggested that all camps be encouraged to test their systems and that the FWC investigate the possibility of grant money to help fix septic problems if they arise. The board voted to conduct the above activities.
A discussion was held concerning legislative bills 260 and 730. It was stated that it appears the Legislature is leaning towards combining the two bills. It was stated that we must keep pressure on the Legislature to get these bills passed.
It was suggested that we invite Heather Darby and Laura Di Pietro to a FWC meeting to answer questions concerning their testimony before the Legislature relative to these bills.
The president stated he believes the State is planning projects on the Marsh Brook but we don’t have any information. When the contracts are awarded the information may become available.
The president advised there is a meeting on the Dam issue on May 7th. Additionally, we need to follow up on our potential legal issues and keep pursuing the Phosphorus Reduction Plan.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:35.
The Franklin Watershed Committee
Minutes of May 17, 2018
7:00 P.M. FELCO Room, Franklin Homestead
Call to Order
In Attendance: Hal Bill
Peter Benevento Steve Comeau
Marion Benevento Paul Stanley
Greg Tatro
Approval of the minutes and treasurer’s report
As a quorum was not present, the reports could not be approved. A discussion was held of the current financial condition of the FWC. There is currently $ 31,629.63 available with no major expenses anticipated. The primary expense for the FWC is the coordinators salary. It was noted that the boat greeter would be paid from the general fund but these payments would be reimbursed by grant. It was agreed that the President had the authority to authorize up to $500.00 in expenses incurred by the coordinator.
Coordinators Report
The coordinator was unavailable; a written report had been provided and discussed. The coordinator will work to implement the current grants. A discussion was held concerning possible grants available to improved private roads and how this could be coordinated with land owners and road owners.
PRESIDENTS REPORT
A discussion was held concerning the septic outreach. Literature needs to be obtained and organized to provide to all camps regarding septics. The possibility was also discussed of obtaining dye for the campers to perform a dye test on their septics. Road Captains would be needed to contact and provide the information to the campers.
The President stated he had been contacted by Dexter LeFavour of Tota & Howard in St Johnsbury, a company that installs public septic systems and the possibility of one being utilized at Lake Carmi. It was decided to have him come to a joint meeting of the FWC and the LCCA to discuss septic solutions.
The President continued that there is still no information on the Marsh Brook improvements being made by the State. There will be an Action Plan report presented at the next TMDL meeting.
The Lake in Crisis bill in the Governor’s office with the funding removed.
A discussion was held concerning the Dam. The State is contracting to have a hydrological study of the dam and outlet at Mill Pond to determine options available to improve the dam and water quality. At this point no removal of the boards and no fluctuations in the level of the water will be allowed and there will be no dredging done. The Dewing culvert is 2inches higher than the old culvert, but this does not make a difference.
Jill Harps from the VT Law School has advised that a law suit will be very expensive and difficult. She will have her law student’s research improving the TMDL, improving transparency with the State, and improving relationships through mediation.
Paul Stanley stated that the MRBA held outreach with the farmers which were successful. He continued that the RAPS of 4 plus acres of land are covered. Paul continued that he felt we should concentrate on contacting small parcel land owners who rent their land to individuals who are bringing manure into the watershed.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:30.
Respectively Submitted,
Marion Benevento, Secretary, Treasurer
The Franklin Watershed Committee
Minutes of July 19, 2018
7:05 P.M. FELCO Room, Franklin Homestead
Call to Order
In Attendance: Hal Bill
Peter Benevento Steve Comeau
Marion Benevento Paul Stanley
Greg Tatro Rob Cormier
Judith McLaughlin Sue Prash
Emily Porter Goff
Approval of the minutes and treasurer’s report
The minutes of the June 2018 meetings were approved. The Financial Report for July was also approved. A discussion was held of the current financial condition of the FWC. There is currently $31,988.71 available with no major expenses anticipated.
Coordinators Report
The coordinator reported that are no major changes in grants and completing the grants is ongoing. She stated that she is reviewing a workplan relative to Toll Neighborhood road, but it requires the cooperation of farmers who own land on the road. The Coordinator stated that we will be getting an Americorp member for 20 hours a week beginning in the fall.
PRESIDENTS REPORT
The material for the Septic Outreach has been received and we will be stuffing the envelopes and distributing the material to all camps on the
Lake.
The President stated he had been in contact with the Vermont Law school and they would be requesting an extension to reply to the Crisis Plan. It was suggested a possibility of a new TMDL and a more effective agreement.
There will be a meeting on August 1st to demonstrate possible septic systems for the lake and the cost share involved.
the Annual Meeting will be September 20, 2018.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:45.
Respectively Submitted,
Marion Benevento, Secretary, Treasurer
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