Town of Chester

The committee reviewed the FY27 budget request for the Park and Recreation department, deciding to maintain current funding levels while discussing potential fundraising activities and capital expenditures for equipment. Significant discussion took place regarding the adjustment of Board of Selectmen stipends, with a proposal to implement gradual increases over five years. The committee also addressed the need for standardized job descriptions and payroll practices. Additionally, members examined town insurance costs, specifically the employee contribution split, and reviewed the overall town budget, which reflects a 2.98% increase over the previous year.

The meeting included the reorganization of the Board, with the appointment of a Chair and Vice Chair. Key topics discussed included the selection of scholarship recipients for the Franklin Hamilton and Theodore Steinhardt awards and the process for appointments to the Open Space Plan Committee. The Board also authorized the Town Administrator to hire an outside vendor for custodial services. Additionally, public comments addressed ongoing work regarding the wood waste landfill, potential changes to town insurance providers, and citizen concerns related to excavation activities near wetlands on a private road.

The Board approved a Special Permit for the cell tower at 97 Old State Road, noting a reduction in the number of transmitters and requesting adherence to EMF/RFE reporting requirements. The meeting included discussions on proposed bylaw amendments regarding trailers, glamping, and poultry. Additionally, the Board addressed the need to update the fence bylaw to improve requirements for fence repairs and materials, and reviewed plans for future bylaw updates including ADUs.

The board discussed financial reports, including the fiscal year 2027 budget request and the reduction in MASSCAT funding. The librarian's report covered the receipt of a library grant for a bridge project, ongoing coordination with the Conservation Commission regarding invasive species, summer reading program arrangements, and the procurement of blinds. Additionally, the board addressed heating issues in the community room, lease and damage inquiries directed to the Town Administrator, personnel coverage plans for the librarian's upcoming leave, and preparation for a budget presentation to the finance committee.

The committee discussed the hiring of a new town accountant and reviewed the current Free Cash balance. A budget presentation was delivered by the Board of Assessors. The committee received an update on the Gateway School budget, including projections for fiscal year 2027 and student enrollment trends. Additionally, the committee noted updates on the Stabilization Fund and discussed scheduling a public hearing regarding the Water Department.