0:01The meeting opened with a public hearing on a request from Verizon New England Inc. and NSTAR Electric Company, operating as Eversource Energy, to relocate utility poles and related fixtures on Main Street. The necessity for this relocation was presented by a Verizon representative, who highlighted safety concerns due to the pole’s current location. The pole’s proximity to a parking area has led to frequent vehicular collisions, prompting a nearby business owner to seek its removal. The representative provided measurements and detailed the risks posed to drivers, emphasizing the urgency of the relocation to prevent further accidents. Following a thorough discussion, the hearing was closed with an acknowledgment of the safety improvements the relocation would bring.

Attention then turned to the upcoming town election scheduled for April 22. With both the town moderator and town clerk absent, a board member stressed the importance of adhering to a strict timeline to accommodate potential debt exclusions on the ballot. The conversation also touched upon the school budget and potential debt exclusions related to local schools.

37:02The search for a new Town Administrator emerged as a topic, with one member stressing the need for a candidate committed to the role long-term, referencing the previous administrator’s 17-year tenure as a benchmark for stability. A timeline was discussed. There was a consensus on the need for a comprehensive job description and the possibility of consolidating the roles of Town Administrator and Finance Director, which could make the position more attractive and improve financial management.

In a related discussion, the board addressed the bylaws concerning the Town Administrator’s role. An update was provided on legislative changes impacting this position, with reference to a bill currently under consideration in the state legislature. These changes were noted as essential for clarifying the powers and responsibilities of the Administrator.

0:01The meeting also saw the formation of committees related to the Acushnet River Valley Golf Course. Candidates for the Golf Advisory and Operational Committee were identified, with Mr. Adam Heee nominated for the advisory management committee and Mr. Dave D. Ro for the golf facilities committee. Their appointments were unanimously approved, with discussions emphasizing the importance of public participation in committee activities. Plans for public meetings were mentioned to facilitate community input.

Further, a Golf Course Building Exploratory Subcommittee was proposed to gather diverse input on the golf facility’s development. This initiative aims to ensure thorough vetting of proposals before they reach the board and, ultimately, the town meeting. The qualifications of several candidates were discussed, with Mr. Richard DePra noted for his extensive experience in golf management. The board emphasized that the exploratory committee’s establishment was intended to enhance, not diminish, the role of the existing Golf Advisory Committee.

17:46The meeting concluded with discussions on financial projections for fiscal years 2024 and 2025, highlighting a projected 2.2% increase in town revenue according to state predictions. However, uncertainties remained regarding local receipts and budget constraints, including predicted increases in health insurance costs. Specific areas of concern, such as veterans’ benefits, were mentioned.

37:02The board also touched upon community engagement, particularly in relation to the appointment of candidates to various boards and committees. Positive feedback was received regarding outreach efforts for letters of interest, with candidates proposed for the Agricultural Commission and Finance Committee recognized for their expertise and community involvement.