The meeting commenced with a detailed presentation of the FY24 audit report by Frank Seredi, managing director of CBIZ CPAs. The audit yielded an unmodified opinion, confirming that the financial statements were fairly stated in all material respects. Seredi emphasized the town’s healthy financial position, noting an increase in the unassigned fund balance to 18% of the budget. This growth was seen as favorable, with a rise from 17% the previous year, equating to an $800,000 increase, which aligns well with rating agencies’ preferred range of 10% to 20%. The general stabilization fund also saw an increase, reaching $3 million, up by $300,000 from the previous year.

The audit process was described in detail, with Seredi explaining the considerations of potential risks like errors or fraudulent financial reporting, and the strategies employed to mitigate these risks. The audit found no significant difficulties with management, and all required representations were provided accurately. The audit also reported a total fund balance increase of $651,000 and a revenue surplus of $653,000, largely driven by tax liens and motor vehicle excise fees. Conservative budgeting practices resulted in expenditures being under budget by $1.5 million.

Despite the positive financial report, a member of the public raised concerns during the meeting about the lack of public engagement in the audit process. The participant emphasized the need for public hearings to discuss financial matters more thoroughly. The board clarified that while many municipal actions require public hearings, the auditor’s presentation is not statutorily required but is presented for clarity.

Further financial discussions included the town’s Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB) liability, which saw a decrease due to contributions and investment income, lowering the net liability from $53.2 million to $50.9 million. The importance of adequately funding these liabilities was stressed to avoid future financial burdens.

Steven Wallace was introduced as the new director of planning and economic development, bringing extensive experience from similar roles in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Wallace plans to meet with various boards and committees to gather input for his annual work program. The board ratified his appointment unanimously, expressing confidence in his ability to integrate into the team.

In staffing matters, the board ratified the appointments of Brandy Oul as the meal site manager and Joseph Davis as an intermittent heavy equipment operator, both of which received unanimous support. The appointment of Mina Schulton as the library assistant was also acknowledged without requiring a vote.

The board also discussed the ongoing issue of water billing with the city of Fitchburg, which was nearing resolution. The town had not adjusted its rates timely when Fitchburg increased theirs, leading to billing complications.

The meeting included a review of various commission and board vacancies, emphasizing the need for community involvement in these roles. Discussions on potential updates to the appointment policy and the regulation of events on private property were also held, with an inclination towards reducing regulations and improving public engagement through updated vacancy postings and potential subcommittee formations for interviews.

Finally, the board addressed the letter to the governor regarding local aid for the Fiscal Year 2027 budget. The letter emphasized the need for increased unrestricted general government aid to address funding deficits. The board debated the inclusion of specific funding requests, reflecting on the Massachusetts Municipal Association’s recommendations for improved state funding support.