00:00The most notable decision from the meeting was the approval of a car cruise show proposed for Main Street, scheduled for the Saturday before the Festival of the Hills. Mike Kirkalone presented the idea, emphasizing the event’s potential to draw visitors to Conway, inspired by the popularity of similar events in neighboring towns. The event will involve closing sections of Main Street, with plans for traffic detours via Elm Street to Reed’s Bridge. Kirkalone proposed charging an entry fee for participating cars to cover the costs of traffic control officers, stressing that this was not a fundraising effort but rather a measure to cover operational expenses.

A necessary step for the car cruise’s implementation includes securing a permit from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT). This process requires letters of support from the Selectboard and the fire chief. In response, the Selectboard agreed to draft a letter supporting the event. Concerns about the timing of the show in relation to the Festival of the Hills were raised, focusing on potential logistical conflicts and the opportunity for cross-promotion. The board plans to coordinate with the Festival of the Hills committee to ensure smooth operations for both events.

39:34Another topic was the debate over a proposed $6,000 stipend for the highway superintendent. The discussion revealed confusion over the stipend’s calculation, initially based on an average of 100 overtime hours worked by highway department employees. There was contention about whether the stipend should be a recurring annual item or a one-time compensation for the superintendent’s increased workload due to understaffing. Some members argued against linking the stipend to the severity of weather conditions, while others suggested the need for a more structured compensation approach, possibly through a formal contract for the superintendent position.

Although creating such a contract is a time-consuming process that may not be feasible until the next fiscal year, it was suggested as a way to eliminate ambiguity and ensure consistent compensation practices.

09:21The meeting also addressed the need for a traffic count study offered by Furcog, which the Selectboard decided to conduct on Shelburne Falls Road. This study aims to gather data to support potential grant applications for road improvements, reflecting ongoing concerns about traffic volume and speed limits in the area. The board expressed a preference for a roadway count over an intersection turning movement count, citing existing speed limit issues and a desire to use the study’s findings to inform future decisions.

16:04In personnel matters, the Selectboard discussed police officer salary increases, noting discrepancies in previously provided figures. The corrected hourly wage was identified as $22.51, with proposed increases to $25, $26, or $27 per hour to remain competitive with surrounding communities. The board settled on a recommendation of $26 as a middle ground, while acknowledging the potential for escalating salary “arms races” among towns.

55:17The meeting further delved into budgetary concerns, with discussions highlighting a $10,000 increase in the town’s budget despite reductions in other areas. The Selectboard reviewed financial implications of new contracted services, increased software subscription costs, and educational expenses. A cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) was considered, with a 3% increase suggested in light of potential economic challenges in the coming years.