Jill M. Lavin

The committee discussed an update from the selectboard regarding the town's default budget and departmental assignments. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to brainstorming potential grant-funded projects, including library expansion, a town hall elevator, a multi-town administrative district study, heating for a wheelchair ramp, a fire department addition, various park improvements, dam repairs, and tourism-related projects such as a canoe/kayak rental station and a river walk. The committee also noted the availability of trust funds for matching grant requirements and ongoing efforts to engage with the USDA regarding the grant process.

The meeting agenda includes action items regarding the 2026 operating budget, as well as old business topics such as surveying town-owned property, a review of a solar project proposal, discussions on the street numbering system ordinance, the Pittsfield nonstandard addressing report, 2025 tax-deeded properties, and the winter road maintenance policy. Additionally, the board will review accounting registers, including accounts payable and payroll, and provide time for public input.

The board meeting will address several key items including the organization of the selectboard, board appointments, and the review of the meeting schedule. Discussions will cover the acceptance of a medical equipment grant, the 2026 voted warrant article transfer for the FPC Fence Fund, the 2026 NH MS-232 report, and a support request for a used oil collection grant. The board will also consider the disposition of the Joy St Pump Station generator, the transfer of bridge lighting responsibilities to Pennichuck, and the 2026 operating budget. Additionally, the session will review various tax-related applications and warrants, committee and department reports, and carry over discussions regarding town property surveying, the solar project proposal, and street numbering ordinances.

The committee discussed the status of USDA Community Development grant funds, concluding that no funding is available for the current year. The group explored potential opportunities for future funding, including congressionally directed spending through congressional representatives and identified alternative funding sources such as the Heart and Soul Foundation and the New Hampshire Charitable Trust. Action items were assigned regarding the retrieval of architectural concepts for town hall improvements and the research of additional grant opportunities.

The board discussed organizing a bake sale to support a universal access swing at the town pool, recruitment efforts for swimming lesson instructors and pool staff, and necessary maintenance tasks for the beach, volleyball court, and lamp posts. Planning for the Easter Egg Hunt included logistics, outreach for event volunteers, and coordination with the local library. Other topics discussed included the postponement of the Fishing Derby meeting, pending information on the summer concert series, and future event planning for Old Home Day and Harvestfest.