A primary concern was securing funds to hire a consultant to assist with the charter review process. The committee acknowledged that hiring a consultant could help streamline efforts and provide expertise that would be invaluable in navigating the complexities of the town’s charter. However, the committee faced constraints regarding the availability of funds, noting that any financial requests would need to go through the town manager. This process requires clarity and purpose for the consultant’s role, with members emphasizing the importance of defining specific tasks and outcomes before proceeding with the hire.

The committee also discussed the possibility of using free cash from the town’s budget to finance the consultant. While free cash was available, council approval would be necessary to allocate these funds for the committee’s needs. This led to a broader conversation about the budgetary process and the need for plansning to ensure that funds are used effectively. Members underscored the importance of aligning their requests with a well-structured budget that reflects the committee’s objectives.

In addition to budgetary concerns, the meeting highlighted the need for community engagement to raise awareness about the charter review. Discussions explored various outreach methods, including the use of townwide mailers featuring a QR code linked to a Google Form for feedback. Some members advocated for leveraging existing community networks, such as church organizations and neighborhood associations, to facilitate outreach efforts. This approach was seen as a way to reach a broader audience without the need to create new communication channels from scratch.

The timing and format of outreach activities were points of contention among members. Some argued for the necessity of a clear framework and specific goals before engaging the public, cautioning against hasty outreach initiatives that might lead to unfocused feedback. Others emphasized the importance of early community input to guide the committee’s recommendations, advocating for a bottom-up approach that prioritizes public sentiment.

The council also considered the logistics of holding hybrid meetings to enhance accessibility and participation. While there was support for this format, technical limitations were noted, as hybrid meetings could only be facilitated in the town room equipped with necessary audio-visual equipment. Members stressed the importance of ensuring that all meeting spaces are accessible to individuals with mobility and sensory disabilities, emphasizing the need for inclusivity in public engagement efforts.

To enhance public understanding and participation, the committee discussed the creation of a concise informational document outlining the committee’s purpose and objectives. This document would serve as an introductory summary to accompany outreach efforts, helping to inform the community about the committee’s work and the importance of their input.

Looking forward, the committee plans to establish a timeline for outreach activities, including public meetings and social media engagement. This structured approach aims to maximize participation and ensure that feedback gathered is constructive and aligned with the committee’s goals. The prioritization of reviewing the charter was underscored as a critical starting point, with members agreeing that outreach efforts should be informed by a thorough understanding of the charter.