In a joint session with Chester, the Blandford Select Board focused on renewing the shared Police Services contract. The contract required minor adjustments to dates and terms, including an amendment concerning police services and vehicle ownership that was yet to be formally adopted. This amendment, with an effective date of July 1, 2022, was agreed upon to be incorporated into the new agreement. The sentiment surrounding the police services was positive, with one board member commenting, “so far it’s been working beautifully,” and no complaints arose from the public. Police Chief Dubio confirmed there were no concerns from his department. The board discussed the term of the agreement and decided on a five-year renewal, agreeing to meet biannually rather than quarterly due to a lack of necessity for frequent meetings.

The meeting also addressed compensation systems for officers and firefighters responding to calls. A tax break for volunteer firefighters that had stalled in the Senate was expected to be revisited in the next session. Challenges in securing volunteer commitments were recognized, and local bylaws for paid calls were considered, although previous attempts had not succeeded. The motion to accept the shared service Police contract renewal for the next five years was seconded and unanimously approved.

In other significant business, the board conducted interviews for the vacant Highway Superintendent position. Two candidates, Ray and Brad, presented their approaches to improving department operations. Ray emphasized communication. He stressed the importance of team meetings and proper safety equipment for staff. Brad focused on securing grant money to supplement the town’s limited resources, acknowledging residents’ concerns and the necessity of listening to team members. Both candidates highlighted effective communication, project prioritization based on community feedback, and robust safety measures as crucial components of their strategies. Board members engaged throughout the interviews, posing questions that allowed candidates to articulate their visions and respond to the community’s needs. The discussion laid the groundwork for thoughtful consideration as the board moves toward a decision regarding the position.

The board also tackled the topic of training needs and conflict resolution in the highway department. Emphasis was placed on adequate training for equipment operation, public safety, and confined space training, with a focus on fostering a cohesive team. A board member noted the importance of addressing the origins of conflicts and avoiding finger-pointing, highlighting collaboration as a way to enhance team performance. The conversation also touched on staying current with best practices and new technology in highway maintenance, with involvement in associations like the Berkshire Highway Association recognized as valuable for exploring innovative solutions.

Budgeting and financial management were topics, with references to Chapter 30B classes and the importance of understanding budget preparation and tracking expenses. A speaker with nearly two decades of experience in budgeting shared success stories in capital planning, detailing how a capital plan initiated in other towns led to significant equipment procurement and efficient financial management. The discussion further explored the state of the highway department, acknowledging past challenges in gaining public trust and expressing a commitment to rebuilding confidence within the community.

The meeting also included discussions on property management, with updates on properties on Main Street and Main Street. Plans were made to list 106 Main Street in the spring pending Title Five inspections, while 83 Main Street was identified as bank-owned, leading the board to discontinue efforts to list 106 Main Street. Communication with property owners on Brookman Drive was ongoing, with final registered letters sent.

The board discussed the implementation of dumpster permits, noting the increase in dumpsters in town and the need for regulation enforcement. Plans to communicate permit requirements to residents and haulers were set forth, including sending letters to those operating without permits.

Additional updates involved a swap shop project, with materials purchased and completion anticipated by July. A new grant application aimed at securing a compactor for the town was mentioned. A vacancy for a burial agent was announced, inviting interested individuals to attend the next board meeting to express their interest.