The board explored the creation of a standardized template for meeting agendas, recognizing the current inconsistencies in how meetings are documented. Some agendas display town branding, while others are simply typed documents. The board expressed a strong consensus on the need for uniformity, and one member committed to drafting a template for review at the next meeting. This template would include essential information such as the date, time, and location of meetings, and display the town seal to clearly identify the documents’ origin. The group agreed that such a standard would not only enhance the professional appearance of the documents but also facilitate the meeting preparation process for committee chairs managing logistics independently.

This discussion was part of a broader conversation about the necessity of providing adequate training and resources for committee members. A member with extensive experience in parliamentarian training suggested simplifying Robert’s Rules of Order to make them more accessible. They proposed creating a condensed version, humorously referenced as “Robert’s Rules for Dummies,” to help committee members grasp the procedural guidelines without feeling overwhelmed by their complexity. The idea of developing a one-page guide to familiarize new committee members with meeting expectations was also proposed, underscoring the need for straightforward, practical tools to assist volunteers in their roles.

Another topic was the need for clear communication with residents entering the town hall, particularly regarding the services provided by various departments. A member shared an anecdote about a resident who appreciated an initiative to improve departmental function clarity, highlighting the board’s focus on effective communication with the community.

The board also addressed the broader topic of local government structure, discussing the distinctions between elected and appointed positions. There was a call to verify the activity of existing committees. A streamlined documentation process was encouraged to clearly distinguish between these roles. The board considered how best to categorize these positions.

In alignment with these discussions, the board touched upon the complexities of appointment procedures for various committees, emphasizing the need for clarity in forms and documentation. They examined the diverse structures of different boards, noting that not all appointments fall under the select board’s purview. This prompted a detailed review of updated board and committee forms, with adjustments proposed to accommodate the unique structures of different committees within the town.

The meeting wrapped up with logistical planning, including scheduling the next session for the following Tuesday at 7:30 PM. It was noted that an executive session was also scheduled for this meeting.