A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to the fate of three town-owned white pine trees situated on land earmarked for utility trenching. The board opened a public hearing with input from the Tree Warden and several community members. The Warden assessed the trees, noting that the planned trenching could critically damage their roots, potentially jeopardizing their health. He remarked, “If it were my own house, I wouldn’t want the trees there,” indicating a potential preference for their removal. Johanna Ross, a resident, advocated for the removal, citing the necessity for utility access and offering to cover the costs. In contrast, Matthew Coles opposed the removal, emphasizing the trees’ health and their value to the neighborhood, while Miriam Moss highlighted aesthetic concerns and prior removals in the area.

The Friends of Manchester Trees expressed a willingness to plant new trees at no cost should these pines be removed. Ultimately, the board unanimously voted in favor of the removal, stipulating that appropriate replanting would follow. Additionally, the board approved the removal of a declining Norway maple posing safety hazards.

Shifting focus, the board discussed the recruitment of a new town administrator, introducing John Petan from Community Paradigm Associates to outline the process. The board emphasized stability, seeking candidates willing to remain for five to seven years amidst a climate of frequent turnover in municipal positions. Petan detailed the recruitment timeline, aligning with the outgoing administrator’s retirement. Discussions highlighted challenges in attracting candidates due to Manchester’s location, and the need for a positive town image to draw suitable applicants.

Budget concerns dominated another segment of the meeting, with discussions on the proposed school budget and its implications on local taxes. The school budget proposed a 2.5% increase, translating to over $400,000 in additional funds, which stirred debates on feasibility given the community’s financial landscape. Staffing shifts, such as converting part-time roles to full-time positions, were also highlighted, alongside the need for a Deputy Fire Chief position, which remained excluded from the current proposal.

The board also deliberated on capital funding strategies, with a pay-as-you-go approach nearing its limits. Discussions about significant bonding over the next five years arose, addressing facility needs like the Department of Public Works facility and the elementary school. The potential tax implications for residents were debated, considering the community’s property values and financial capacity.

Further, the board tackled harbor regulations, with concerns about favoritism in boat slip assignments. The discussion led to plans for drafting new regulations to ensure transparency and fairness in the allocation process. Additionally, the meeting touched upon affordable housing initiatives, emphasizing the importance of the Pres Street property for housing development. The Housing Trust discussed ongoing challenges in land availability and collaboration with consultants to assess feasible projects.

Ocean Street maintenance was another focal point, with plans for a high-level engineering study proposed in the draft budget. A $100,000 allocation was suggested, although concerns about grant funding challenges and previous inaction were voiced. Alternative funding approaches, including university partnerships for studies, were considered amidst calls for clarity on road access and environmental management.

The board acknowledged the importance of engaging residents early and strategically in fiscal discussions to accurately gauge their priorities.