Town of Raynham

Key discussions included the Treasurer's report approval and updates on fuel assistance, which is now operational with applications accepted until April 30th. The Council on Aging will host a free estate planning clinic on January 29th for low-income older adults (60+), covering Durable Power of Attorney, Health Care Proxy, and a Simple Will; registration deadline is January 20th. Tax preparation appointments, free for seniors through AARP, are scheduled to begin on January 20th, with weekly appointments starting February 2nd. Correspondence included the retirement letter from John Teixeira, effective December 31, 2025. Old business covered the dissolution of the previous Friends Group, which is attempting to reorganize, and the presentation of a new community brochure detailing local resources, with a request to include information on assessors' offices and tax exemptions. New business involved updates on the SAVE program volunteer recruitment and a reorganization of the board, including nominations and confirmations for the positions of Chair, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer.

The meeting covered departmental reports, including the Building Commissioner's 2025 year-end revenue and permits issued, and updates on commercial projects like Chick-fil-A and the former dog track building demolition. The Library Director presented a quarterly report detailing visitor statistics, item circulation, and program attendance, noting ongoing staffing needs and collaborations. The Board accepted the resignation of a Council on Aging member and voted to advertise open positions on the Council on Aging, Cultural Council, and Cable Advisory Committee consistent with new appointment policies. A Raynham Recognition Award was granted to Tia LaBrecque for her athletic achievement in the Deaflympics. The Board approved the Town of Raynham Policy on Appointment of Planning Board Associate Member. A detailed performance review for the Town Administrator, Gregory Barnes, was conducted, highlighting strengths in fiscal management and community involvement, while noting challenges in time management. The Town Administrator informed the Board about authorizing deficit spending for snow and ice removal expenses, noting the Highway Department's efforts. Board members commended the Highway Department. The Board also discussed the Bridgewater-Raynham School Committee's preliminary FY2027 budget proposal, which includes restoring ten teaching positions. The meeting concluded with an Executive Session to conduct strategy sessions in preparation for negotiations with the Fire Chief.

The meeting included departmental updates from the Health Director regarding vaping education books and outstanding business permits, the Town Nurse on recent presentations, and the Animal Control Officer on kennel inspections and upcoming barn inspections. Key actions included the reappointment of Joel C. Thomas as Constable and the appointment of Carlos Alvarado as Inspector of Animals. Two public hearings were held concerning changes to liquor licenses: one for Shaw's Supermarkets, approving a change of officers/directors and manager of record for their Wine & Malt Beverage Package Store License, and another for Facility Management Corp. d/b/a Raynham IcePlex, approving a change of manager for their Wine & Malt Beverage Restaurant License. New business involved the approval of several Tag Day Requests for various local groups for the calendar year 2026. The Town Administrator reminded attendees of a joint budget review meeting scheduled for the following day. The Board also acknowledged the service of the Highway Superintendent's team and noted the opening of a new Old Colony Habitat for Humanity location.

Key discussions included updates on the library dissolution process, noting that the matter is currently with the Town Attorney for final details regarding payment and voting requirements. The Director's report covered minimal programming for December, a successful teen checkers tournament, and issues with obtaining Wi-Fi statistics from Comcast. Financial matters involved managing the increasing cost of Hoopla services with a new spending limit, receipt of the first state aid check, and budget development for FY27. Operational updates included replacing a malfunctioning carbon monoxide detector, confirming DPW services for snow removal, and exploring the purchase of a digital sign. Staff contract renewals are due by May 1st, and the meeting concluded with a discussion on changes to safety building plans.

The agenda included the Chair calling the meeting to order, confirmation that the meeting was being recorded, and the Pledge of Allegiance. Key discussion items involved receiving department head reports, including the Police Chief's monthly report, an appointment of a Civil Service Police Officer, and handling continuing business. New business featured a Raynham Recognition Award presentation to Tia LaBrecque, discussion and a vote regarding permission for Aerial Mosquito Larvicide Spray from Bristol County Mosquito Control, setting a hearing date for a joint pole location request from TMLP and Verizon on Robinson Street, and discussion and a vote on a Memorandum of Understanding with Bridgewater-Raynham Regional School District concerning Capital Assessment. Further new business included authorizing the Fire Department to expend funds for a Firefighter Safety Grant, discussion and a vote on a letter supporting S.1370 (Snow Removal Service Liability Limitation), review of Tag Day requests, and several Kennel License and Inspection Renewals. The agenda concluded with reports from the Town Administrator and Select Board, review of correspondence, and administrative duties including warrant approvals.