The meeting’s most pressing discussion centered on the protracted generator installation, initially approved for purchase in August 2021. Despite a $35,000 allocation from American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and an expected delivery by October 2022, the generator arrived a year late and remains unused. Mounting frustrations were evident as board members recounted the nearly 80 emails exchanged without resolution. An engineering study costing $6,200 was conducted, resulting in a schematic, yet confusion persists among local inspectors and the fire chief about the installation’s next steps. The installation costs, now estimated at $50,000, have sparked debate over the project’s viability, with one participant suggesting selling the generator due to persistent challenges. The board also scrutinized a bid of $48,900 for the electrical work alone, questioning the project’s financial justification.

In tandem with these concerns, the board delved into the complexities of the water district project and its funding. A borrowing authorization was included in the fall town meeting warrant, providing flexibility in managing the project’s financial aspects. The potential use of ARPA funding, which must be obligated by year-end, was a point of debate. While successful grant applications could redirect ARPA funds to other uses, the board navigated the political and financial ramifications of such decisions. The possibility of a tax rate increase linked to budgetary expansion was a concern, as some members advocated for a strategic approach to mitigate taxpayer burden.

The fiscal health of the town was a recurring theme, with discussions about the stabilization fund and free cash reflecting prudent management. However, concerns lingered about how rising budgets might influence tax rates, particularly as the town faces substantial future expenses. Proposals for a 4% tax increase were discussed as a potential compromise, considering the need to balance operational needs with the community’s financial impact. The board weighed the advantages of gradual rather than abrupt tax hikes, recognizing the necessity of navigating complex financial landscapes with clarity and foresight.

As part of the budgetary considerations, the board also evaluated a proposal to authorize a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for two project phases. The necessity of voter trust was emphasized concerning appropriations or funding authorizations before entering contracts. With state or federal funds potentially adjusting appropriation amounts, the board underscored the importance of strategic financial planning. The conversation included various spending scenarios and their implications on the tax rate, with some members advocating for raising and appropriating funds over reallocating free cash.

Additional agenda items included consideration of warrant articles, such as the cemetery commission’s request for $7,500 for tree and erosion control. The board debated whether to integrate this into the operating budget permanently or treat it as a one-time expense.

The meeting also addressed the TWW lease, which progressed towards signing after collaborative edits with the school committee. The health intermunicipal agreement (IMA) awaited a minor amendment before finalization. Administrative reports noted a successful TWW facility walkthrough, upcoming implementation of two-factor email authorization for enhanced security, and preparations for a special permit’s appeal period.