Alex Goddard

The Selectboard discussed various administrative updates, including a scope of work change for a dam grant and an application for a highway safety grant. Financial matters included the authorization of signers for a firehouse addition bond, a review of the completed fiscal year 2025 audit findings, and approval for invoice payments related to truck body work. The board also addressed election staffing needs, reviewed a certificate of no appeal, discussed the sale of a surplus vehicle, and planned for an upcoming informational town meeting. Additionally, the board held an executive session to discuss confidential town matters.

The board discussed several operational and financial matters, including a petition for election procedures at town meetings, grant applications and an update on a demonstration garden for the Energy and Conservation Commission, and a report on highway department activities such as salt usage and culvert repairs. The board authorized a contract with the ambulance service, approved financial investment proposals, and waived the procurement policy for an emergency culvert project. Additionally, the board approved funding for Green Up Day, authorized a construction contract for the fire department, decided not to proceed with a specific property buyout, and reviewed updates on various infrastructure projects and committee liaison appointments.

The committee meeting covered a basketball program recap including tournament performance and future needs for equipment and coaching. Updates were provided on baseball and softball registration numbers and coaching requirements. Discussions were held regarding the development of a player and parent code of conduct agreement, field maintenance scheduling and training, and the transition of the Hyde Park Youth Sports non-profit account. Additionally, planning for ball field concessions, the May tournament, and the banner program for business renewals were addressed.

The Board heard two tax abatement requests concerning properties deemed total losses following electrical fires, both of which were approved. Additionally, the Board discussed and approved updates to the Town of Hyde Park Board of Abatement Procedures and Rules for Conduct for Abatement Hearings, including a shift from biannual to quarterly meetings to improve fairness and responsiveness to taxpayer needs.

The special meeting included a reorganization session where the Chair and Vice-Chair positions were elected and confirmed through subsequent motions. The Selectboard reviewed and amended the Rules of Procedures, specifically modifying section 11 regarding Commissions and Boards. Discussions also covered setting the Regular Selectboard Meeting schedule to the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m., and following up on letters of interest for the Planning Commission and LCPC Board of Directors. Furthermore, the Board reviewed an updated contract with Better Construction for the Fire Department project, noting discrepancies in the start and completion dates, and agreed that amendments protecting the Town in case of non-completion would be presented at the next meeting. A motion was passed authorizing the Vice-Chair to sign bond bank paperwork while the Chair is out of state. Finally, feedback regarding the recent Town Meeting, including voter turnout and presentation materials, was discussed, and the topic was scheduled for the next regular meeting agenda.