The financial audit for fiscal year 2023, presented by Tony Roselli from Roselli Claren Associates, revealed significant challenges due to turnover in Hatfield’s financial department. The audit highlighted a $337,000 debt payment that went unreported, leading to inaccuracies in the town’s financial statements. Additionally, unaccounted transfers between capital projects amounted to $800,000, with many journal entries lacking proper documentation, complicating the audit process. Roselli reassured the board that despite these challenges, progress had been made in rectifying the discrepancies. He emphasized the importance of maintaining accurate records, stating that the town had managed to make substantial corrections. The board engaged with Roselli’s findings, seeking clarification and discussing the necessity of establishing clear financial protocols to prevent similar issues in the future. The audit’s findings underscored the need for consistent financial practices and improved communication among financial roles within the town.

Alongside financial issues, the board addressed an alcohol compliance violation at a local establishment, School Street Market, which had failed to verify a minor’s ID. The board articulated a strong stance against such violations, with members stressing the importance of discouraging underage alcohol consumption. A board member remarked, “We want to discourage kids from thinking Hatfield’s the place to come to if you need to… alcohol.” The absence of the establishment’s owner at the meeting was noted, and the board discussed sending a formal warning letter from the licensing authority, communicating the seriousness of the violation and the expectation for improved diligence. The letter would serve as an official warning, noting that further violations could result in a suspension of the establishment’s liquor license. The board considered the balance between supporting local businesses and ensuring community safety, emphasizing the use of tools and programs to help businesses comply with age restrictions.

The meeting also covered the town’s capital planning and allocation of funds for various projects. There was a discussion on prioritizing projects, such as HVAC upgrades at Smith Academy and the replacement of a freezer unit, with motions to allocate ARPA funds for these needs. The board deliberated on the importance of completing shovel-ready projects and expressed a preference for prioritizing items listed in the capital plan.

The meeting included the appointment of Isabelle Jagger as the assistant Town planner, which received unanimous support. The board also discussed staffing updates in the Public Works Department, announcing the successful filling of open positions. Additionally, requests for vacation time carryovers were addressed, with the board approving individual requests based on unique circumstances.

A point of discussion was the search for a new Town Administrator. The structure and composition of the search committee were debated, with a decision leaning towards a seven-member committee to ensure balanced representation. The importance of clearly outlining qualifications in the job advertisement was emphasized, particularly regarding grant writing and familiarity with state systems for reporting.