The police department’s discussion centered around securing funding for body cameras. The chief highlighted that though a previous application for funding body cameras was unsuccessful, efforts to obtain grants would continue. The estimated cost for implementing the body camera program was discussed, ranging between $100,000 and $130,000, covering equipment and associated storage solutions. The chief emphasized the importance of these devices in protecting both officers and the community, especially given recent policing incidents in nearby areas. The board expressed unanimous support for seeking external funding to alleviate the budgetary constraints associated with this initiative.

Simultaneously, the police department is grappling with staffing challenges exacerbated by state mandates and increasing operational demands. The chief noted a rise in domestic disturbance calls and a shift in community interactions with law enforcement. An increase in the use of force reports was attributed to these escalating tensions. The department’s current staffing includes 21 full-time officers and one part-time officer, with recruitment processes evolving due to police reform. The chief underscored the struggle to maintain adequate patrol coverage and the need for consistent staffing.

The board also navigated discussions on the broader budget implications for town departments, highlighting the challenges of maintaining fiscal responsibility while ensuring fair compensation for employees. The highway department, for instance, faced challenges in filling a truck driver’s position as the current pay rate was not competitive with the private sector. The highway department head advocated for a 10% salary raise for the staff to improve retention and morale, noting that competitive salaries are crucial given the high cost of living.

The animal control officer brought attention to the multifaceted nature of their role, which extends beyond handling domestic animals to include managing livestock and addressing health-related issues. Despite these extensive duties, the officer expressed frustration over inadequate compensation. A proposal for a $1,500 stipend was supported by the board, recognizing the officer’s contributions.

In the realm of community programs, discussions highlighted the sustained efforts to engage residents through events such as concerts and classes. The community program director, Kylie, manages these events, which have seen varied participation levels. There was a proposal to maintain distinct roles for Kylie as both community program director and outreach worker, with the same pay scale suggested for both positions. This aimed to simplify payroll management and ensure clarity in job responsibilities.

The board also addressed ongoing infrastructure projects, emphasizing the need for a new street sweeper and improvements to the town’s salt storage facilities. The highway department reported recent paving expenditures and suggested maintaining similar budget allocations for the coming year.

The meeting concluded with a focus on the health department’s challenges in aligning compensation with the demands of their roles. Discussions highlighted the need for adjustments to the education stipend to reflect the qualifications required for health inspector positions. The board acknowledged the complexities involved in recruiting qualified personnel and the importance of fair treatment across departments.