0:01A primary focus of the meeting was the request by Fire Chief Tom Farland for a $60,000 reserve fund transfer to cover vehicle repair overages. Chief Farland explained that the aging fleet had already exceeded the budget by approximately $25,000. He detailed the approval of a replacement engine for Rescue 2, costing around $20,000, and expressed concerns over the long wait times for new ambulances. While the new ambulances were expected between January and February 2026, Farland mentioned finding a supplier in Syracuse, New York, with a shorter delivery timeline. The discussion explored the anticipated repairs and maintenance needs, with the chief hopeful that the additional funds would suffice until June’s end.

In addition to the fire department’s needs, Town Administrator James Kelley presented the fiscal year 2026 budget estimates, highlighting a conservative revenue estimate increase of $49,673 and potential additional local receipts of $100,000. Kelley emphasized the challenges posed by previous one-time revenue figures, which could not be sustained, and the town’s staffing shortages in critical positions like the town accountant and assistant treasurer. These vacancies have contributed to budget constraints with an estimated surplus of over a million dollars in free cash pending certification. However, Kelley warned this was unsustainable and echoed the challenges many towns face in recruiting qualified personnel.

25:16The committee further delved into the recruitment difficulties, with discussions on the downturn in enrollment for accounting programs and the need for candidates experienced with Munis, the financial software used by towns. The town’s misaligned chart of accounts was identified as a complicating factor for new hires, prompting a proposal to update the chart for standardization. The speaker highlighted the budgetary impact of these challenges, noting a potential increase in expenses by over a million dollars against an estimated revenue growth of around half a million. A tight budget was deemed necessary, given the limited new growth in tax revenue.

52:44The broader implications of these fiscal constraints were discussed, including collective bargaining costs and pension insurance increases totaling $253,000. Concerns were also raised about the town’s economic struggles, with a reported decrease in restaurant revenues and rising utility costs, particularly electricity. A member expressed frustration with the lack of action on these economic issues.

Infrastructure needs surfaced as another topic, with a request for $10,000 to replace a heating unit at the Council on Aging. Questions arose about the warranty status of the unit installed less than two years ago, and concerns were voiced about the roof’s condition over the COA. Past grants and potential issues from earlier repairs were scrutinized, raising doubts about previous contractors’ service quality.

The meeting also touched on the timeline for upcoming budget hearings, with suggestions to start as early as February 12. The committee acknowledged the impact of the holiday schedule and school vacation week on planning, emphasizing the need for coordination among the Finance Committee, school committee, and Board of Selectmen. The urgency of setting a town meeting date was stressed, particularly concerning a debt exclusion proposal for the school’s HVAC project, linked to an election set for April 22nd.

As the meeting concluded, discussions on liaison assignments and the potential rotation of the finance chair position unfolded. While some members proposed rotating the chair every year or six months, the idea lacked enthusiasm, with others noting the system’s effectiveness as it stands. Liaison gaps, particularly regarding the golf committee and Department of Public Works, were noted, with uncertainty about recent appointments and communication responsibilities.