20:13One notable issue at the meeting centered around the school budget shortfall, which is projected to require an additional $3.5 million to maintain current service levels. The board engaged in a discussion about the sustainability of relying on annual budget overrides, a method that has become increasingly common as financial pressures mount.

The board considered the possibility of calling a special town meeting in March to discuss a school budget override, potentially in collaboration with neighboring towns Ashby and Pepperell. The proposed date for this meeting was March 10th. Support for the school budget override was expressed, emphasizing its importance in maintaining educational services. The financial strain on the school system was attributed to several factors, including a decrease in funds from the previous year and anticipated increases in insurance and special education costs. A joint budget meeting scheduled for February 6th is expected to provide more detailed financial information to inform these discussions.

1:00:34Another topic was the proposed “pay as you throw” trash bag program, which required the town to secure a $62,000 grant for implementation. Concerns arose about committing to a second year of the program without a clear understanding of the financial implications. A town administrator assured the board that no funds would be spent until there was certainty about the program’s viability. Despite these assurances, the board was divided on whether to proceed with the grant application.

1:18:30In addition to budgetary discussions, the board addressed personnel changes within the highway department. A proposal to transition a fleet mechanic to a lead heavy equipment operator position was debated, with a focus on providing growth opportunities for current operators and creating a clear career path for junior staff. However, uncertainties about the financial implications and union negotiations led to a decision to table the proposal until more information could be gathered.

The board also discussed a reclassification request for a police department records clerk and the procurement of new police cruisers. The police chief presented a case for upgrading the clerk position due to increased responsibilities. The chief also outlined the need for new police cruisers, emphasizing that delaying the purchase could result in significant cost increases. The board granted the town administrator the authority to sign the lease agreement for the cruisers.

1:00:34In other business, the board reviewed the draft of a Community Preservation Act (CPA) bylaw, which would establish a framework for preserving local resources. The proposed bylaw had been modeled on similar laws from neighboring towns and required further discussion regarding the composition of the CPA committee and the establishment of a historical commission in Townsend. The board emphasized the need for clarity on the town’s historical bodies before finalizing the bylaw and agreed to revise the wording for consistency and clarity.

1:36:57As the meeting concluded, the board set the opening and closing dates for the annual town meeting warrant and acknowledged resignations from two firefighters who had moved out of town. The board expressed appreciation for their service and issued a call for community volunteers to fill available positions.