The meeting began with the Board considering a poll hearing motion related to the installation of utility poles along North Lampford Road. This project, proposed by Verizon New England, Inc., involved installing ten new poles, removing five existing ones, and replacing three others. The plan aimed to enhance the reliability of the electrical grid, reducing outages during severe weather by installing sturdier poles. However, the proposal was met with resistance from a member who expressed safety and environmental concerns. The member highlighted pedestrian safety issues and the lack of detailed information about the pole locations, especially given the nearby wetlands.

The conservation committee had reviewed the project but found the provided information insufficient to address their environmental concerns. Additionally, the pole installation was linked to a larger substation expansion initiative that had not yet received approval from the Energy Facilities Siting Board (EFSB). Concerns were raised that proceeding with the installations without the EFSB’s approval would be premature. The Board decided to request a continuance of the poll hearing to facilitate further communication between Eversource representatives and the conservation committee. This delay allows the conservation committee to review the necessary information and provide feedback before any decision is made.

Following the utility pole discussion, the Board addressed various departmental needs, focusing on financial reporting and maintenance issues. Concerns were raised about the cleanliness and maintenance of the community room and the back entryway of the municipal building. The cleanliness complaint pointed to a potential mold issue due to water intrusion, which is particularly concerning for senior citizens who frequently use the building. The conversation revealed that the current maintenance staff was overwhelmed, prompting suggestions for increased maintenance support.

The financial reporting segment highlighted the need for better clarity and accuracy in accounting practices. Members discussed the necessity of receiving comprehensive monthly financial reports to monitor issues effectively. Discrepancies in account numbers and income reporting were noted, emphasizing the need for a more transparent accounting system. Plans for upcoming training sessions were discussed, with a virtual session scheduled to address these concerns further.

The meeting transitioned to a detailed examination of the payroll processing timeline, where department representatives raised specific concerns about payroll submissions during unpredictable weather events. The highway department, in particular, expressed concerns about potential complications in submitting payroll during winter storms. The Board emphasized the importance of real-time communication in such situations to avoid delays.

Another topic was the financial implications of obtaining CDLs for municipal employees. The Board discussed proposed policies to support employees in obtaining their licenses, acknowledging the financial burden of training programs. A structured policy was suggested, involving possible reimbursement for training costs over time to ensure employees remain committed to the town post-training. The Board debated the extent of financial support to offer, considering potential risks associated with upfront payments and the need to balance employee development with the town’s financial interests.

The meeting concluded with discussions on a proposed $5,000 financial incentive for employees completing their CDL over a three-year period. The Board considered dividing the incentive into annual payments upon each anniversary of passing the test. This incentive aims to encourage employees to pursue necessary licensing while ensuring they remain with the town after completing their training.