Attending: Mike Pelczar, Rich Alperin, Ed Pelczar, Mike Provost
Excused: L.F. Getchell
Public: Dick Adams (Portsmouth)
Meeting called to order at 7:00 pm by E. Pelczar
Kai Nalenz from Gravestone Services of New England was present to discuss his method of cleaning & repairing cemetery monuments. He had provided a detailed price quote to the Cemetery Trustees. Kai explained what he uses for products and his philosophy in stone repairing. He does work throughout New England. With his present work schedule he would probably be available the last two weeks of August and then some time in the fall. He would work subject to our availability of funds. Mike Provost and Rich Alperin had recently attended a seminar in Portsmouth on stone repair, and many of the issues Kai spoke of had been discussed at the seminar Mike & Rich attended. The Trustees were impressed by Kai’s presentation and his answers to our questions.
On a motion from M. Provost and seconded by M. Pelczar the Trustees voted to have Kai do the work in straightening, repairing and cleaning the monuments. The bid from Kai was the lowest bid received, but certainly seemed to have the most value. All Trustees agreed that we should begin by straightening the leaning monuments. This would alleviate stress in the stones which could cause them to naturally break. We will wait to hear from Kai to see when he will begin.
The Minutes from the May 28, 2008 meeting were approved as written.
Ed P. reported that we presently have $15,000 in Capital Reserve for the monument project. The Town Council recently passed Resolution #2008/09-01 authorizing the withdrawal of this $15,000 for the monument project. Trustees will forward any bills from Kai to the Finance Office for payment. Another $15,000 will be added by the Town sometime during this fiscal year.
LandCare has not begun the work of restacking the stone wall. Ed P. will call them to get a start date for this project. The Trustees would like to have this done before the Community Service Day scheduled for Aug. 2nd.
M. Provost reported on the Community Service Day, Aug. 2nd, 9 am – 2 pm, at the Old Town Cemetery. The Town will provide screened loam, Club Chameleon will provide manpower, Mike has solicited donations of food and drink, as well as materials & perennials for planting. We hope to fill in the low spots to make the mowing easier, and to plant a perennial garden near the flag pole. Rakes, shovels and wheel barrows will be needed, along with a grill.
L.F. Getchell sent a letter of resignation to the Cemetery Trustees. He stated that due to personal issues he cannot continue with his duties and is resigning immediately. The Trustees regretfully accepted his resignation. Ed will notify the Town Council so that the position can be posted. The Secretary will write a letter of appreciation to Mr. Getchell.
Next meeting, Aug. 27, 2008. Meeting adjourned at 8:20 pm.
