Sophia Bletsos

The agenda for the upcoming meeting includes receiving reports from the Wellness Consultant and the Treasurer, reviewing Gallagher Benefit Services (GBS) reports, discussing the Fiscal Year 27 active renewal, reviewing the Good Health Gateway dashboard report, receiving carrier and vendor reports, and addressing other business items.

The key discussion topics for the advisory group meeting include general governance of the shared-service arrangement, specifically electing a chair and co-chair and determining the location for posting future meetings. Other agenda items involve an overview of the FY26 Workplan and performance standards, discussions on Public Health Nursing, Animal Control/Inspector services within EHSPHS, Public Health Emergency Preparedness, future funding, a Purple Air Sensor Grant, and establishing a process and fee for pre-rental inspections.

The meeting of the Technology, Finance, and Operations Subcommittee covered the budget for the coming year, with a focus on operating and capital expenses. Key discussion points included budget offsets, the impact of health insurance costs, and revenue estimates from sources like transportation reimbursement, Medicaid, and interest. A significant portion of the discussion was dedicated to health insurance, with an estimated 13% increase anticipated. The budget also factored in support from sources considered revenues by the state, such as transportation reimbursement and Medicaid.

The committee discussed a new by-law for conservation and open space violations, clarifying the roles of the OSRPC and ConCom. Updates were provided on the McDonald Habitat Restoration project, including a sign design for unauthorized trails and plans for blazing the new Alton's Loop trail. The committee also discussed new maps, kiosks, blazing, and bike signs, as well as updates to the Sawmill web page. Topics for the town report were reviewed, and updates were given on the Bog Bridges project and trailwork. The meeting also covered liaison updates and back burner items, including the bicycle shop letter and Dana Lemon recognition.

The meeting included discussions on several topics: the introduction of the new Commissioner of East Cemetery, an overview of the process for flagging Veteran graves, and the issue of a crooked Veteran's stone. Compensation for commissioners was discussed, with a motion made to research possibilities for a stipend, plot, or town services. The potential impact of a Microsoft migration on CIMS was addressed, including options for printing maps. Landscaping responsibilities were clarified, and an SOP on creating the annual Burial Management Report was created. Future projects include formatting changes to the Transaction for Deposit to Treasurer form and obtaining quotes for pruning and mulching. Erica will serve as the Clerk and Natashia will serve as Chair. A financial update was provided, including an explanation of the different types of accounts held.