Conway Selectboard Delays Decision on Highway Superintendent Salary Amid Concerns Over Precedent

The Conway Selectboard convened to discuss a variety of issues, with the primary focus on a debated increase in the highway superintendent’s salary due to his performance during inclement weather. The meeting also addressed grant applications, technology services, and community concerns.

01:36:28A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the proposed salary increase for the highway superintendent, who had requested a $6,000 raise, citing the added responsibilities related to snow and ice removal. The board grappled with whether this increase was justified, as snow management is a traditional part of the superintendent’s duties. Some members were hesitant to approve the increase as it could set a difficult precedent for future salary adjustments based on seasonal work. Instead, they discussed alternative methods of recognition, such as performance-based awards or one-time bonuses, to acknowledge the superintendent’s efforts without embedding the increase into his base salary. The Personnel Committee was tasked with exploring these options further, and a decision was postponed to avoid any hasty actions that could affect the town’s financial planning.

01:05Another topic was the board’s approval of the Green Communities Grant application, which includes plans for a street light project. The application, presented by a member identified as Allison, suggested including the cost of purchasing street lights, despite concerns it could make the proposal less competitive. Historical successes of similar grant applications with such costs included were noted, and the board unanimously approved the application. The project management and administrative aspects of the grant were assigned to the Sustainability Committee, with a separate member overseeing daily operations.

09:05Additionally, the meeting addressed the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) application, focusing on flood management around the Manwell property near the covered bridge. Engineers are conducting upstream outreach and modeling, with plans to present findings at a future town meeting. The board approved a pivot in the project focus to the Manwell property.

32:49In the realm of technology, the board entertained a presentation from SourcePass, an IT vendor offering a platform called Quest. The platform aims to streamline the town’s IT services through enhanced customer support and data management capabilities. Discussions highlighted the need for clear budget implications related to Microsoft licensing and equipment needs, with the board evaluating ongoing managed service provider fees and one-time migration costs to Microsoft services. The presentation underscored the importance of user privacy, transparency in billing, and proactive risk management in IT services.

01:49:20The board also deliberated on administrative matters, including the signing of a Castle Match Agreement for the Hazard Mitigation Plan update, which required a $5,000 commitment already allocated in the budget. Furthermore, the board passed recommendations from the personnel committee to increase work hours and wages for certain town employees, aligning pay with neighboring towns.

01:53:35Community concerns were raised regarding littering along roads leading to the transfer station, with suggestions for discussions with the Chief of Police to enforce littering laws and prevent spillage from trucks. The board recognized these issues and expressed interest in collaborating on cleanup efforts.

Note: This meeting summary was generated by AI, which can occasionally misspell names, misattribute actions, and state inaccuracies. This summary is intended to be a starting point and you should review the meeting record linked above before acting on anything you read. If we got something wrong, let us know. We’re working every day to improve our process in pursuit of universal local government transparency.

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