Chester Selectmen Seek Legal Advice on $13,000 Fire Fee Dispute

The Chester Board of Selectmen voted on Oct. 27 to consult the town attorney regarding approximately $13,000 in fire marshal fees assessed to the Guest House at 318 Main St. First Selectwoman Cindy Lignar agreed to determine whether the charges were applied before the new fee ordinance took effect. The board will revisit the matter after receiving legal guidance, though no decision was made to reduce or waive the fees during the meeting.

Selectwoman Pat Bandzes reported that the property director contacted her about the bill, which arose from a construction project that received Planning and Zoning approval in July. The new fire marshal fee structure became effective in October, after the permit was issued. Property representatives argued the project should be exempt because construction began before the ordinance was enforced. According to meeting minutes, three properties have been billed under the new structure.

The board also examined billing practices for the Chester Sunday Market, including fire watch charges. The hourly rate for fire watch services increased from $38 to $43 in June. Organizers raised concerns that they were not notified before the increase and that billing included five hours of preparation time before personnel arrived at the market. The market organizer stated she had not observed fire watch staff before 9 a.m. Lignar acknowledged approving the five-hour arrangement but said it might need reconsideration. The town now has a written agreement with the market for the upcoming year, with terms addressing rates and hours. Lignar will draft an email to Sunday Market representative Susan Hotkowski explaining the changes.

Selectman Paul Radicchi raised concerns about drainage at the Fire Department parking lot. Grading followed the natural slope of the property, which Radicchi said could lead to erosion during heavy rainfall. Lignar noted the project is unfinished, with additional work scheduled for spring, including installing an entrance apron and completing drainage improvements. The Conservation Commission will be consulted on drainage, and the Garden Club will assist with landscaping. Radicchi agreed to follow up with Public Works Director Cam Evangelisti and report back to the board.

The selectmen also reviewed a request from the owner of 10 Liberty St., adjacent to the Meeting House, regarding noise and lighting from increased events. The owner asked whether the town would consider installing screening or trees between the properties and offered to purchase mature plants if they could be installed on town land. Bandzes noted that large maple roots make planting on the owner's property difficult. The selectmen discussed available space and possible effects on parking. No action was taken, and the owner may be invited to a future meeting or asked to submit a written proposal.

The board unanimously approved the appointment of Joshua Eannotti to the Region 4 Buildings and Grounds Oversight Committee. The meeting began at 6 p.m. and adjourned at 7:22 p.m. The draft minutes were prepared by Clerk Suzanne Helchowski and are subject to approval at the board's next meeting.