Meeting, April 5, 2001

Present:  Linda Wollschlager, Raphael Herz, Jeffrey Phillips, Paul Connolly,Philip Verzani

Others present:  Frank Foss, Paul Griesmer

The meeting was called to order by the chair at 7:05 PM in the School Committee Meeting Room, Third Floor, Town Hall.

After initial approval and subsequent reconsideration, the word "Wednesday" was added to the minutes, and the amended minutes of the March 22 meeting were approved.

Mr. Verzani mentioned his increased personal commitments; he is reviewing whether he will be able to continue to serve on the committee.

Mr. Phillips suggested that the committee keep abreast of the developments with the new Town web site (Virtual Town Hall). The committee may choose to add a by-law about use of the web site.

Ms. Wollschlager reported that she had sent an e-mail notification to a selected group of voters for the April 5 meeting. A few e-mail responses were received. Mr. Herz reported a new contact for the Historic District Committee. Mr. Foss said that he was the contact for the Finance Committee. Mr. Herz will prepare a flyer for Town Meeting to inform members about the committee's activities.

Mr. Connolly suggested some procedures to define the process when the committee reviews the suggestions that have been made and takes action. The committee decided to follow these guidelines.

Mr. Herz reviewed the procedures for the public hearing and then opened the public hearing. Mr. Foss stated that the Finance Committee may establish a subcommittee to review charter and by-law changes that are recommended for Town Meeting action. Mr. Griesmer cautioned against restricting eligibility for elective office. Mr. Connolly reported that Ms. Salamoff suggested an increased number of signatures required for nomination if preliminary elections are abandoned. The committee made note of all comments and suggestions, and committee members asked questions to obtain additional information. The suggestions will be added to the list on the committee's web site. Mr. Herz closed the public hearing.

Committee members reported on their review of the By-Laws, Articles 1 through 11.

The meeting adjourned at 9:30 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Paul E. Connolly