Ray Weintraub

The committee reviewed and documented changes made to the budget spreadsheet regarding the calculation format for specific departments. Additionally, the committee provided recommendations in favor or not in favor for articles 12 through 43 for the fiscal year 2027 budget.

The meeting featured presentations from the Eastern Area Agency on Aging (EAAA) regarding Family Caregiver Programs, including information and assistance, respite services, support groups, and training. A discussion also covered support groups for Care Givers and Care Grievers available at the Ellsworth Public Library. Community organization updates included details on Frenchman's Bay Library operating hours, a recent Soup and Chili Luncheon, and a request for donations for a new library of things. Upcoming Age-Friendly Sullivan events were reviewed, such as Bone Builders, Ladies out Lunching, Coffee House meetings, and an Earth Day Clean up. Information was shared regarding volunteer opportunities and upcoming meetings in March and April.

The committee discussed the budget and financial overview, noting unexpended funds and available balances, and reviewed the Sullivan Days budget, which generated significant revenue. Key priority capital projects reviewed included the Sumner Park Granite Wall, which is the highest priority, and the long-term Skate Park project requiring reserve funding for potential matching grants. Other projects discussed were kayak racks for Flanders Pond Beach and necessary maintenance sand for tennis courts, along with amenity purchases like picnic tables and garbage cans. Program discussions included CPR classes with a focus on reducing no-show fees, scheduling for Music in the Park, and planning for the Summer Camp sessions and the Bike Rodeo event. Committee actions included approving a motion to move unspent FY 24--25 funds into a reserve account designated for the Sumner Park wall and the skate park, and approving the purchase of a kayak rack. The committee also accepted a resignation and appointed a new secretary.

The meeting included discussions regarding the Solid Waste Contract, specifically whether to put the Transport for Municipal and Demo waste out to bid, and whether to continue using the local Demo container or require individuals to use the Ellsworth transfer station. The Board decided to investigate current disposal costs and alternative waste removal options. The 2026 To-Do List was reviewed, and the date for the next Selectboard Work Session was set for January 20, 2026. Town Manager reports covered trash bags left at the Transfer Station, stray lobster traps at Gordons Wharf, arrangements for stray animals as a local clinic ceased intake, and notification of lowered bank interest rates. The Fire Chief reported a 25% increase in call numbers for 2025 and discussed the need for more volunteers. The Board also addressed outstanding action items, including property determination for the Tennis Court Complex and the status of the Harbor Master position.

The Select Board meeting included the appointment of an acting chairperson and adjustments to the agenda, prioritizing the Selectboard Meeting Policy Review. Discussions covered the policy regarding public comment submissions. The board reviewed and approved the Treasurer's Warrant. Under New Business, the board addressed the lack of submitted bids for Fuel Oil and planned for Town Clerk attendance at a G.A. Training webinar. Old Business focused on the 2026 Town Office Calendar, which was tabled until the next meeting when all members would be present. The board reviewed the Action Item list, discussed the Gordon's Wharf Shellfish Contract (tabled), and initiated drafting a Drug and Alcohol Policy, with a member volunteering to assist. The Town Manager reported on the Housing Feasibility Grant, the condition of Fire Station 1, and the need to replace missing/faded road signs. The board approved the appointment of a new member to the Cemetery Committee. During Public Comment, members observed and subsequently moved to amend the Public Comment submission process in the board policy. The session concluded with an Executive Session to discuss confidential records, following which two Conceal Carry Permits were approved.