0:00A significant part of the meeting focused on the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) account, where a deficit of $39,000 was discovered due to duplicate or erroneous check issuances. The board took immediate steps to void these checks.

16:39In the realm of infrastructure, a detailed report was provided concerning ongoing water projects. Confusion arose around the funding sources for a loan yet to be secured, with mentions of Pierce, an engineering and consulting company, and another individual, Wade Watson, who had been involved in the project discussions. The board resolved to clarify the account status to ensure funds are available for bill payments.

0:00Updates on other infrastructure projects included reports on a recent meeting with Gil Engineering about the Beach Hill project. Although a second round of grant funding had not been secured, permitting costs were reduced, saving the town approximately $13,000. The board considered pursuing a OneStop Grant in March to continue progress on the project.

16:39Another topic of concern involved the management of town parks. The board discussed the need for a coherent park management plan to prevent deterioration. It was proposed that park maintenance responsibilities be integrated into the highway department superintendent’s role, which would allow for better equipment sharing and personnel deployment. This suggestion aims to relieve the Select Board of direct park management duties, enabling more efficient resource allocation and accountability.

Financial management and oversight of trust funds related to the parks were debated, with frustration expressed over a missing $77,000 donation. The lack of transparency in managing these funds has been a recurring issue, with calls for regular quarterly reports on investment earnings to ensure proper oversight. The board emphasized the importance of accountability in managing town resources and suggested potential changes to improve transparency and trust fund management.

0:00The meeting also addressed routine matters, such as the approval of liquor licenses for a property on for the Blandford Country Club and the Blandford Country Store. Plowing services for Maple Lane and Eagle Club were approved for the winter season. These approvals were handled without extensive discussion.

Staffing was another topic of discussion, as the board considered updated job descriptions for the highway superintendent position and the urgency of hiring a new town accountant. These staffing changes are part of the board’s efforts to ensure that the town’s operational needs are met effectively and efficiently.

A noteworthy point of discussion involved the town’s financial obligations, with mention of outstanding invoices from Encore Fire Protection that exceeded the budgeted amount for town hall maintenance and repair, leading to a $7,000 deficit in the account. This financial strain highlights the need for careful budget management and the reclassification of payments to correct inaccuracies. The board acknowledged the importance of managing future financial obligations within the town’s budgetary constraints.

16:39The meeting concluded with a motion to enter an executive session for union negotiations, highlighting ongoing discussions on employment matters within the town administration. The board emphasized the legal basis for this confidential discussion.