The board and the ambulance service representative engaged in a thorough discussion on the future of the service, exploring the necessity of a five-year plan to forecast expenses and consider alternative funding strategies. The potential consequences of towns not participating in the proposed plan were also considered, which could impact mutual aid agreements and the availability of ambulance services. The representative, drawing on extensive experience in the EMS field, underscored the high costs of running a paramedic ambulance service 24/7 and expressed optimism about the proposal’s acceptance by the communities involved.

Another issue was the overall town budget, with the board deliberating on various budget items and proposals. There was concern about increasing expenses in public safety departments and the need to stay within the 3% levy limit while balancing the budget. The finance report was reviewed, highlighting goals and achievements, and the board discussed the need for a deeper understanding of revenue sources and potential opportunities for the town. The board also addressed discrepancies in regional transit funding and general government expenses, including the need for an audit and the allocation of funds to stabilization funds.

The board discussed increases in elections and registration expenses due to the upcoming election year and debated overages in miscellaneous expenses. Overspent line items such as highway vehicle fuel and fire turnout gear were noted, along with the need to appoint an inspector of animals and allocate budget for ambulance services and vocational education. Public works discussions included highway salaries and tree canopy work and their implications for road maintenance.

Budget items specifically related to highway repairs were also a focus, with decisions to level fund the highway repair budget at $115,000 and to allocate $5,000 for overtime. The request for a raise for the board secretary due to expanded duties was debated, considering the board’s authority and need for oversight. The library’s budget request for an increase of $11,000 due to increased hours and work was a contentious topic. Furthermore, the possibility of borrowing for future projects and the necessity of a mini town meeting to discuss employee benefits were topics of discussion.

The board also delved into the town budget for the preceding three years, with a particular focus on the library’s position relative to other town departments. There was uncertainty about the accuracy of prior years’ budget approvals, missing pages in the annual report, and concerns about the accuracy of financial information for various town functions. The board planned to reconvene to review the budget thoroughly before the annual town meeting on June 3rd.

Issues related to grants, year-end transfers, and the need for a comprehensive expenditure report were discussed. Overspending in certain accounts and appointments to various town positions were addressed, including the historical commission, conservation agent, ADA member, water department superintendent, town accountant, zoning board of appeals, and electrical inspector. The board also needed to rescind a motion related to opioid litigation and discussed Homeland Security’s upcoming visit to review the election process.

A debate ensued regarding the water department’s refusal to pay for water ordered during an emergency and the Highway Department’s request for a refund for personnel used during the water leak emergency. The board concluded the meeting by entering an executive session to discuss union negotiations.