A major concern was the proposed borrowing limit for the project. The board discussed borrowing $2.25 million over a five-year period to maintain a manageable debt level, with interest payments projected at $225,000, lower than other options. A strategy was recommended to draw $1.25 million from retained earnings, leaving a $1 million reserve for unforeseen expenses. This approach was designed to alleviate high debt payments that had strained the golf enterprise fund in the past.

Operational management of the clubhouse was also a point of discussion. The board considered outsourcing the food and beverage operations to a private entity instead of managing it in-house. This move was seen as a potential way to enhance service quality and reduce the town’s operational burden. The urgency of advancing the clubhouse project was emphasized, as members expressed a collective desire to present a prepared proposal at the upcoming town meeting to secure community support.

In addition to the clubhouse project, discussions also covered the town’s capital expenditures and repairs, particularly focusing on school facilities. Article 13 proposed $150,000 for repairs to the elementary school roof and gymnasium, addressing ongoing water penetration issues. The need for these repairs was underscored by the impact of water damage on the gym’s roof, which had not been addressed in prior renovations.

The board also tackled the financial management of the town’s resources in Article 12, which involved raising or transferring $295,000 from free cash and solar tax revenue. The funds were allocated to retire debts efficiently, including eliminating a $1.3 million debt initially planned as a debt exclusion. The board expressed pride in executing the financial plan effectively.

Another topic was the funding for an advanced life support ambulance for Acushnet Fire EMS. The proposed budget of $475,000 was a reduction from a previously authorized $600,000. The board considered using $200,000 from the EMS reserve receipt account and $275,000 from free cash, maintaining the EMS reserve balance at $619,000. Concerns about depleting reserves too quickly were discussed, given the unpredictability of Medicaid reimbursements and ambulance service demands. The cautious approach to spending aimed to preserve funds for potential future needs.

The board also approved funding for a new radio system repeater for the Emergency Management Agency and Department of Public Works, recognizing its necessity for public safety communications. The $35,000 upgrade was supported by free cash to address communication challenges experienced during recent events.

Further, the board discussed amending the Community Preservation Committee article to reflect increased collections from rising house values while maintaining standard percentages in various categories. The potential for capping the rate to alleviate taxpayers’ burden was considered, though any adjustments would require a town meeting vote.