Polly Ryan

The meeting included a public hearing and subsequent approval for the installation of four utility poles. Appointments were confirmed for the Finance Committee, Vocational Education Advisory Committee, and the Cemetery Committee. The Finance Committee presented an update on the proposed FY27 budget, noting significant increases in school and vocational tuition costs, and discussed department budget requests. Key discussions covered historical policy on employee step raises, capital planning strategies based on regional comparisons, and a budget transfer for a new police cruiser. Additionally, the board reviewed a request to support an appeal for state reimbursement of a regional school district overpayment and prepared a response regarding the utilization of ARPA funds.

The meeting included discussions on the town meeting warrant and proposed zoning bylaw changes, including the creation of a police revolving fund. The Board reviewed and finalized a letter declining a request for regionalized police and fire services with a neighboring town, citing concerns regarding control and resource management. Updates were provided on highway department grant applications, including approval for a vehicle maintenance equipment grant and the design for a street project. Additionally, the Board approved various financial items, including bills for legal and technical services, authorized the rollover of unused vacation time for staff to the next fiscal year, and addressed the rising prevalence of scams targeting residents, with plans to provide educational resources through the town website and other community outlets.

The meeting included a public hearing regarding the installation of a utility pole on Campbell Road, which was approved. The Board established an Ad-Hoc Capital Planning Committee and formally postponed the Annual Town Meeting to a later date, while also closing the Annual Town Meeting Warrant. Additionally, the Board declined to exercise the Town's First Right of Refusal for a property located at 0 East Main Street and entered into an executive session to conduct contract negotiations with nonunion personnel.

The board approved the appointment of a new member to the Recreation Committee and discussed upcoming town events, including the town election and the annual town meeting. A future pole hearing regarding utility installations on Grant Street was scheduled. The board approved an insurance premium quote for Firefighter/Police coverage for the next fiscal year. Discussions were held regarding challenges with the Annual Town Report and potential improvements for the process. The board reviewed new legislation concerning marijuana delivery and decided against requesting a waiver for its municipality. Additionally, the board addressed an inquiry from a Congressman regarding the use of federal funds and discussed a potential committee vacancy. Finally, the board approved the payment of a legal services invoice and signed warrants.

The board discussed a petition from Eversource regarding the installation of a new utility pole on Campbell Road. An ad hoc capital planning committee was created to research requirements for forming a standing committee and to define potential capital projects. Additionally, the board considered the postponement of the annual town meeting due to logistical concerns regarding the town warrant and the transition of administrative staff, ultimately deciding to reschedule the meeting and evaluate the election date at a subsequent session.