Ross Perry’s contract as interim Town Administrator includes specific responsibilities related to the town’s energy aggregation efforts.

The board proceeded with discussions on official appointments, including seasonal summer recreation counselors and a truck driver/laborer, among others.

One of the notable items on the agenda was the relocation of the facilities department from the Town garage to the highway department office space due to safety hazards. The move is expected to enhance the department’s operational efficiency and ensure employee safety.

A grant opportunity for fiscal year 2025 was also a focal point, with the board discussing potential improvements to the Swan River portability and heart library. The board recognized the grant writer and Town Administrator Eric Slagle for their efforts in securing funding for town projects.

Further discussions on grant-writing efforts led to the acknowledgment of the town’s new employee, Aaron, who had been successful in obtaining several grants that Townsend had previously not secured. Additionally, the board considered the opportunity for Townsend to host the Massachusetts Humanities Smithsonian tour, potentially bringing in a significant grant of $110,000 with the town providing $10,000 in-kind support.

The board also revisited the selectmen’s liaison assignments and the goals set in the previous year. There was a debate on the rotation of liaison assignments, reflecting on the respect for individual members’ qualifications and desires.

Infrastructure improvements, including Wi-Fi and phone system enhancements, historic preservation, and community program funding, were addressed through a rundown of the grants received.

In terms of administrative matters, the formation of a search committee for the Town Administrator position was debated, with the board ultimately deciding on a five-person committee excluding board members. This decision was made to ensure the impartiality of the selection process.

Additional discussions included the senior center’s need for more phone lines, a revised contract with Markham that reduced anticipated costs and expanded the assistant accountant’s scope of work, and a one-year extension to Shaw’s trash and recycling contract. The latter sparked a debate about the necessity of new toters and the contract’s financial implications, especially regarding the school budget override.

The board expressed concerns about potential budget cuts and the impact on town services during a discussion about the town’s trash collection contract with Shaws. A proposal to charge a trash fee was debated, with the board agreeing to extend the contract for one year at $825,000, subject to Town Council review. Uncertainties about the contract’s termination conditions were noted.

Moreover, the board engaged in the unified planning work program for fiscal year 2025, which includes the Route 119 Corridor analysis. Enthusiasm was shown for being selected for the program and the support from local representatives.

The water department’s liaison reported active involvement and discussed PFAS contamination litigation, with settlements expected to bring funds to the town. This was deemed a positive step in addressing the water contamination issues.

The allocation of funds for the water department’s operational costs was discussed, emphasizing the need for interest-bearing accounts to manage expenses efficiently. The board also touched upon their work with the Board of Assessors, attendance at health seminars, and the potential implementation of a village group program for volunteer assistance.

Updates from various departments included the Land Use Coordinator office’s progress, collaborations with Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School, and the Recreation Commission’s plans. Public Safety updates were positive, and announcements for upcoming events, such as Memorial Day observances, were made.

The meeting concluded with plans for the next session and a motion to enter into executive sessions to deliberate on negotiations with non-union personnel and litigation strategy related to a police union overtime grievance.