One notable issue at the Conway Selectboard meeting was the town’s response to water-related issues, prominently featuring a proposed Hydraulic Engineering study aimed at addressing flood concerns. The study, to be funded by a State appropriation for flood-related expenses, initially did not include groundwater assessment, which became a point of debate. Participants from GZA, the engineering firm, acknowledged that while the study’s current scope was surface water-centric, they were open to considering an expanded scope that includes groundwater, recognizing its potential impact on flooding. However, they also noted the study’s funding limitations and the need for public outreach to gather relevant data. The board left the decision on the study’s scope open.

Complementing the water issue was the conversation on public education about wet basements and the implementation of a grant that would address water drainage problems. Techniques such as dye tracing and camera inspections were considered to understand water flow and blockages, with the board emphasizing the importance of communication with residents affected by water issues.

The meeting attendees also reviewed changes to the town’s infrastructure, such as road paving and culvert openings, which have influenced water flow. This led to discussions on the necessity of verifying hydraulic connections and exploring mitigation options. The need for a hydrologic model to assess the drainage system’s capacity was debated, along with concerns about the feasibility and practicality of potential solutions.

On the financial front, the Selectboard engaged in discussions about the town’s budget, particularly employee health costs, salaries, and the impact of inflation. There was no consensus on the exact percentage increase for salaries, with suggestions ranging from 3% to 4%. The Board of Health’s wage increase was explained as a correction for the previous year’s budget. The finance committee expressed the need for more information and historical data on Cola rates before making salary decisions and discussed the timing of these decisions.

The meeting then moved on to warrant articles for upcoming town projects. These included investments in the school’s phone and video surveillance systems, Mini Splits for climate control, and a sustainability study article. The board scrutinized the language of the articles, ensuring clarity, particularly regarding the expected purchase year for a fire truck. Discussion also included the Capital Improvement plan, the General Stabilization fund, and the potential borrowing vote related to previous town decisions. A new article from the Town Council on the North Poland Bridge, pickleball courts, and a citizens’ petition advocating for 16-year-olds to vote in town meetings was also addressed.

Scheduling and logistics were a part of the meeting, with suggestions to move a meeting date to avoid conflict with Mother’s Day and a request to adhere more strictly to the timeframe for public input. The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to adjourn.