The most pressing agenda item involved a proposed $30,000 transfer from veterans’ benefits to data processing expenses. This was critical due to its direct connection to the software used for municipal operations, including building permits and beach stickers. This software, managed by a third-party provider, plays a vital role in processing transactions on behalf of the town. Committee members sought clarity on the software’s usage and budget discrepancies, particularly focusing on a system named DURA. A typo in the fiscal year 2025 request had misstated prior amounts, leading to a discussion on the correct renewal amount of $2,279. This was attributed to credit consumption, sparking curiosity about the town’s software usage, potential transition to cloud services, and associated costs.

The members emphasized the need for a comprehensive list of all software in use, including licensing fees and renewal dates, to enhance oversight and ensure budget accuracy. The proposal aimed to foster a better understanding of the town’s software landscape and prevent unchecked expenditures. The discussion further touched on antivirus software and anticipated increases in ongoing contract costs, prompting a call for more detailed information before any decisions could be made.

Another discussion revolved around several line item transfers necessary for year-end budget adjustments. The committee unanimously approved a $11,836 transfer from the police regular full-time account to the accountant’s salary account, a move attributed to consultant payments for staff training. This was described as a necessary clean-up of budgetary allocations to ensure fiscal responsibility.

A transfer of $8,394 from sick and vacation buyout to health inspection services was also on the agenda. However, concerns about a budgeting error that led to underfunding a health inspector’s salary prompted the committee to defer this transfer until more information could be obtained.

Additionally, the committee approved a substantial transfer of $89,576 from the police regular time budget to the town share health account. The transfer was required to address an increase in health insurance costs that had not been adequately accounted for, a situation made manageable by savings in the police department due to staffing changes. This strategic financial maneuvering ensured the town’s budget remained balanced without jeopardizing departmental operations.

Further transfers included $1,000 from sick and vacation buyout to the treasurer collector salary, covering a stipend for the treasurer’s certification, and $329 from the police regular full-time account to a retiree medical fund, correcting an accounting error related to a closed account. Both transfers were approved unanimously, highlighting the committee’s efficiency in resolving budgetary issues.

The committee also discussed a transfer of $4,700 from the water supply to water insurance, necessitated by excess funds due to a park’s offline status. Members acknowledged the need to improve forecasting for future budgets.

Moving beyond budget transfers, the committee considered the appointment of a member to the town administrator search committee. A member was unanimously appointed, recognized for their previous experience in the selection process. This decision underscored the committee’s confidence in the individual’s ability to contribute effectively to the search for a new town administrator.

In the realm of administrative updates, a member reported the successful hiring of a new assistant, set to begin work shortly. This development was welcomed positively, with hopes that the new assistant would enhance operational efficiency and workflow.

Concerns were raised about a pending transfer request from the Highway Department, highlighting the need for clear and prompt information to facilitate informed decision-making.