Raymond Bower

The meeting included discussions on the Police Department needs assessment and the shifting trend in the town workforce from defined benefit to defined contribution plans. Reports on expenditures for the Board of Education and the Town Government for March were reviewed and accepted, with analysis provided on budget utilization, revenue collection, and specific line items such as facility maintenance, software procurement, and transportation services. The Board also addressed a financial audit billing issue regarding additional work and reviewed the status of the medical insurance fund balance and claims.

The agenda for the meeting includes a public forum, a report from the Finance Director, and an investment review to be presented by Fiducient Advisors. The board will also address old and new business items.

The board reviewed the OPEB portfolio's financial performance, noting a rebound in April to a fund balance of $4,287,000 after experiencing unrealized losses in March. Investment advisors confirmed that portfolio performance is aligned with established benchmarks. Additionally, the discussion covered the Board of Education's contribution obligations toward the OPEB fund and the implications of previous contribution reductions on the timeline to reach funding goals.

The task force discussed the process of addressing snow-covered properties and potential billing mechanisms for property owners. A significant portion of the meeting focused on updates regarding the Green traffic study, including the proposed conversion to a one-way traffic flow around the green, plans to request town control of specific streets from the state, and the potential implementation of three-way stops and bump-out projects for traffic safety. Additionally, members noted the installation of a new bicycle air pump near Page's Hardware and discussed an educational post by the police department regarding stop sign compliance.

The board discussed the failed FY2026-27 budget referendum and subsequent budget reductions required for both the Fire and Communications departments. Reports were provided on the progress of the new ambulance acquisition, new employee hiring status, and updates on IT projects, including the 911 station alert cutover. The Fire Marshal's office provided statistics on permits and inspections. Operational reports included a review of call volume, response times, and ongoing training activities. Additionally, the board reviewed and approved monthly expenditures for the Fire and Communications departments and noted the status of current and upcoming fiscal year budgets.