At the heart of the meeting, a debate unfolded over the removal of historical records from the town clerk’s vault by the historical commission. The town clerk voiced frustration about multiple records being taken without her consent, emphasizing the necessity of these documents for historical research and the town’s decision-making. The historical commission defended their actions, asserting the records were for research and taken with presumed permission. A motion was made for a formal policy on the management of these records, acknowledging their importance and the need to establish clear guidelines for proper maintenance and public accessibility. The Selectboard settled on organizing a private meeting with the historical commission to draft a policy.

Another topic of high interest was the discussion regarding several articles for capital improvements presented by the Capital Improvements Committee. The proposed articles included allocations for a new Rescue Pumper, a side entry/exit rubber tire compact loader, and a plow truck, as well as a debate about the funding for a police cruiser. The board also discussed salary increases and adjustments, which incorporated a 5% cost of living adjustment for certain employees. The adjustment was partly justified by a member who explained it was a result of achieving a fiscal goal to keep overall increasing assessments under 3%.

The meeting also touched on the critical subject of the town’s budget, focusing on the cost of living adjustment and the preparation necessary for the Personnel committee to address questions at the upcoming town meeting. It was suggested that a follow-up meeting in the fall would be necessary to review each position and comprehend the impact of potential changes. Alongside these discussions, the finance committee conducted end-of-year Line to Line transfers and worked on drafting a report for the town meeting.

In terms of community events and support, the Selectboard signed a letter endorsing the National Wild Scenic River designation for the Natalie and voted unanimously to support a grant for the New England Forestry Foundation. The grant aimed to study the emergency response capabilities concerning forest land tourism and municipal financial sustainability. The board also deliberated on the MVP grant for stormwater repairs and a substantial $2 million grant for road repairs in the community.

Further, the meeting included discussions on the moisture issue within the Vault, where assistance from the Department of Public Health was sought to evaluate the water damage. The board approved all of the Capital Improvements Committee’s recommended votes on the four Capital Improvement articles.

Other articles voted on included the approval of a revolving fund for the transfer station, revisions to the bylaws concerning associate members, and the formation of a Festival of the Hills committee. Additionally, bids for a new public safety building were rejected due to funding concerns.