The resignation of Ellen Deure from the Select Board was a primary focus, prompting discussions about the process to fill her seat. The board deliberated on the possibility of holding a special election, emphasizing that appointments to the board require an election rather than internal selection. The logistics of aligning this election with the state ballot in November were explored, with a commitment to further research the necessary steps and permissions. The board clarified that a primary ballot in September was not feasible, leaving November as a potential target for the election. The board’s approach to this transition highlights the procedural complexities and the importance of maintaining a full board to ensure effective governance.

The resignation also brought attention to the board’s committee assignments, particularly with the recent vacancies from Ellen Deure and Stephen. The board discussed the necessity of having liaisons for certain committees, acknowledging that not all require representation. Members were encouraged to submit their preferences for committee involvement, and the board emphasized the importance of prioritizing which committees should have designated liaisons to ensure proper representation and communication. Some committees, such as the Cemetery Committee, were identified as potentially not needing a liaison due to infrequent meetings. The board’s collaborative approach aimed to balance committee coverage while recognizing the temporary nature of these assignments until a fifth board member is elected.

In addition to addressing the board vacancy and committee assignments, the meeting delved into several community initiatives. The board discussed the Boston Post Cane Award, a traditional New England honor recognizing the town’s oldest resident. Plans are underway to dedicate a plaque to the current oldest resident, Armen Lerie, who recently turned 99. The board noted the historical significance of the award, which began in 1909 and has evolved to include women since 1930.

Financial and administrative matters also featured prominently in the meeting. The board reviewed and approved several Personnel Change Forms (PCFs), including the hiring of Joseph Russell for a full-time position in the Water Department and Kayla Fiend as a part-time youth librarian. The board acknowledged the qualifications and enthusiasm of these new hires, recognizing the importance of their roles in enhancing town services. Additionally, the board approved two one-day beer and wine permits for future events.

In the realm of grants and funding, the board discussed recent applications to FEMA for a tanker pumper and SCBA units, highlighting the town’s minimal financial contribution for these grants. The administrator expressed optimism about the quality of these proposals, citing improvements from previous submissions. The board also supported a land grant application for acquiring the triple brick property on Middle Road, emphasizing the strategic importance of this acquisition.

The meeting further addressed the management of year-end financial activities, with the town administrator reporting on efforts to reconcile departmental grants and encumbrances. The administrator noted the anticipated transfers related to the snow budget and legal expenses, with the town accountant reviewing all accounts for irregularities. This financial oversight ensures the town’s fiscal responsibility and preparedness for future audits.

The board’s discussions culminated in a transition to an executive session, where they addressed strategy related to negotiations with non-union personnel and collective bargaining issues concerning the police chief and union.