31:54In a related fiscal responsibility topic, the board approved financial transfers under Chapter 44, Section 33B. These transfers were necessary to address legal expenses, health insurance, and temporary staffing needs, particularly for the building inspector. This motion also passed unanimously.

08:50Another discussion involved community appointments. The board focused on the reappointment of volunteers and officials across various committees. Noteworthy was the appointment of Jeff White from an alternate to a permanent member of the Board of Appeals, replacing an expired term. The board also emphasized the need for alternate positions on the Zoning Board of Appeals. Interested parties are encouraged to apply, with attendance required only when necessary.

08:00The board also tackled the issue of union negotiations, specifically addressing grievances related to dispatch scheduling. A resolution was reached to compensate an employee for lost overtime shifts. This resolution was approved through a motion, emphasizing the board’s effort to address employee concerns and maintain fair labor practices.

06:05In other discussions, the board reviewed resignations from key positions, including a library tech and a special police officer. Motions to accept these resignations were approved, and a collective bargaining agreement was discussed regarding restructuring the planning department. The restructuring plan involves absorbing duties by an existing employee, which is seen as a positive step toward enhancing service delivery for residents.

02:47The meeting also included the approval of a grant application for the town planner to pursue federal funds for improving local roads and sidewalks. Despite some skepticism about the necessity of addressing roadway fatalities in Acushnet, the motion to direct the town administrator to sign the draft application passed. The town administrator raised concerns about the relevance of the grant, suggesting state funds might be better allocated elsewhere, particularly for school funding. Nonetheless, the board decided to proceed with the application.

16:09Appointments to various committees were a focal point, including the golf facilities exploratory committee, which was granted a 60-day extension for their term. This extension allows the committee to complete their final report. The historical commission and other committees followed a similar pattern of motion, second, and unanimous approval for appointments.

The board also addressed the appointment of Sue as a retiree designate on the insurance advisory committee, noting uncertainty about her interest in continuing. Without formal communication from her, the board proceeded with other appointments, including the planning board and other key roles. A moment of levity occurred during the discussion about the moth superintendent inspector, while Jamie Kelly was appointed as the parking officer for a three-month term.

The board concluded by preparing for an executive session to discuss negotiation strategies related to non-union personnel, specifically concerning the fire chief. A motion to enter executive session was approved through a roll call vote, with the board indicating they would not return to public session afterward.