Karen Clough

The meeting addressed several critical administrative and operational matters. Key discussions included the renewal terms for the Court System Lease, where Commissioners agreed to advocate for a 3% rate increase in the second year of the proposed two-year agreement. The Human Resources Director provided clarification regarding the employee handbook's policy on earned time accrual for employees who are rehired after a separation period, and was tasked with drafting a letter to the employee. In procurement matters, the Commissioners accepted the audit bid from Vachon Clukay & Company, PC for the next three fiscal years. The financial report highlighted concerns regarding the Nursing Home's revenue projection due to decreasing census and potential over-expenditure in the Department of Corrections medical budget, which might necessitate a budget transfer. Furthermore, Municipal Resources Inc. presented their State of EMS Study, including interactive maps, prompting public commentary from EMS and Fire officials regarding funding sustainability, overhead cost calculation difficulties in government operations, and equipment specifications (van-style versus truck-style ambulances). Commissioner Hedberg noted preliminary feedback on social services applications, mentioning several lacked required documentation.

The meeting centered on gathering feedback from department heads in the judicial branch regarding potential scope reductions for the courthouse building project, with a deadline of the 16th. Concerns were raised regarding the lack of feedback from Jill and deeds regarding their anticipated reductions and building concerns. A discussion occurred regarding the structural implications and increased cost of attempting to separate building sections into different construction categories (Category 3 vs. Category 4) versus making the entire structure Category 4, especially concerning the Sheriff's Department and dispatch area, which code mandates as Category 4. It was determined that isolating structural systems to meet lower category requirements would result in higher costs and structural inefficiencies, making an all-Category 4 construction more feasible.

The meeting included discussions about the impact of cold weather on farm equipment and operations, milk production, and prices. There was also discussion of a research project with UNH involving boluses in cows, which provides valuable data for monitoring cow health. The HR director provided an update on new hires and exits, including challenges in filling cook positions in corrections. The LNA program was evaluated, addressing issues related to tuition costs and shift preferences.

The committee discussed several key items, including an RFQ for ISPs, with plans to finalize and post it to the County website. The NTIA grant application was reviewed, focusing on the match requirement, and a presentation to the Commissioners was scheduled to discuss decision options. The committee also planned a meeting with the State Broadband office to update them on the middle mile project and the NTIA grant plan, emphasizing the committee's priorities. Funding options, including bonding, were discussed for the match. Regional meetings were updated, and a CDBG Mid-Project Public Hearing was scheduled.