Joseph J. Connelly

The committee meeting covered general updates from the Town Manager regarding the upcoming budget, state aid projections, and proposed service adjustments. The members reviewed capital improvement requests for various town facilities, including building maintenance, electrical and mechanical system upgrades, security enhancements, vehicle replacements, and park and playground improvements. Additionally, the committee reviewed the town's annual comprehensive financial report, noting compliance with financial standards and discussing updates to pension and OPEB liabilities.

The board discussed the appointment of an interim health director and a health agent, reviewed the upcoming meeting schedule for the latter half of the year, and addressed a proposed home rule petition regarding the regulation of rodenticides to protect wildlife. Additionally, the board considered a training opportunity through the MAHB certificate program and approved a local upgrade approval request for a property on River Road regarding septic system requirements and soil testing methods.

The board addressed several administrative and operational matters, including the recognition of an Eagle Scout and updates from the Town Manager regarding snowstorm operations, sustainability certifications, and municipal staff recruitment. Public hearings were held to consider utility infrastructure projects, including Eversource Gas main replacements and the Tewksbury Street Bridge replacement project, for which the board authorized a letter of support. Additional regular business included the adoption of a Zero Emission First Vehicle Policy, approval of the Annual Town Election Warrant, and the delegation of authority to the Town Clerk regarding emergency polling locations. The board also reviewed and supported several articles for the Annual Town Meeting, covering topics such as revolving fund dissolution, cemetery planning, utility maintenance, solicitation bylaws, and an electric bicycle registry.

This document outlines the strategic goals and objectives adopted by the Select Board for Fiscal Year 2026, designed to reflect community priorities and guide Town Administration and departments. Key focus areas include responsible financial planning through updating the Long-Range Financial Plan, strategic investment in capital projects for improved service delivery and infrastructure, launching 'Communications 2.0' to enhance public engagement, and addressing other significant priorities identified by the Select Board. The plan aims to provide a clear framework and direction for effective outcomes across various town functions.

The committee reviewed the progress of the Town Offices renovation project, including completed work and specific change orders, and examined the project's budget status. Updates were provided regarding various Capital Improvement Plan items and building equipment. Additionally, the committee analyzed the Andover High School Improvement Project, reviewing expenditures and evaluating three distinct improvement options to be presented at the upcoming Town Meeting, as well as the process for future MSBA applications.