Carol Dawes

The committee meeting focused on outlining the committee's mandate and objectives, including setting a goal for providing recommendations for the community. The meeting included the formal election of a committee chair and secretary. A professional facilitator provided a presentation regarding approaches to improve participation at Town Meetings, followed by a committee discussion and brainstorming session on the impacts of different voting formats. The committee also evaluated the feasibility of conducting a survey for community participants and discussed strategies to invite additional potential members to apply for the committee.

The committee reviewed their schedule and discussed future topics, including preparations for an upcoming survey. Guests from Duxbury and Cambridge presented their experiences and processes regarding Town Meeting reforms and improvements. Members reviewed and shared their impressions of these presentations, focusing on themes of increased information, more relaxed presentation styles, and greater community engagement.

The board discussed multiple administrative and community projects. Key topics included updates on FEMA buyouts, authorization for tax anticipation borrowing, and progress on flood mitigation and housing initiatives such as the Randall Meadow and Woody Avenue projects. The board appointed an E911 Coordinator, named a new private road, discussed BRIC grant opportunities for wastewater infrastructure, and reviewed applicants for staff positions. Additionally, the board approved special event permits for the Waterbury ArtsFest and the Leaf Peepers Half Marathon, and authorized a request to the state traffic safety committee for speed limit adjustments on Route 100. During the executive session, the board appointed a Town Treasurer.

The agenda includes the review of consent items such as liquor and tobacco licenses for local businesses and the review of outdoor consumption permits. Updates will be provided by the Planning Commission, Development Review Board, and the State Police. The Municipal Manager will report on FEMA buyout authorizations for properties on North Main Street, tax anticipation borrowing, and progress on flood mitigation and housing projects, including consultant requests for proposals. Selectboard matters involve staff search updates for management and clerk positions, appointments to the Housing Task Force, discussion of opioid funding and an entertainment ordinance, approval for special events such as the Arts Fest and Leaf Peepers Marathon, and a speed limit adjustment request.

The board convened an executive session to discuss the appointment of a municipal officer. Following the session, the board voted to extend an offer for the position of clerk of Waterbury to a candidate, contingent upon the successful completion of reference and background checks as well as the ability to be bonded.