04:59Bobby, a representative involved in the discussions, highlighted the challenges faced in securing reliable service providers. For instance, Home Depot’s initial flooring quote only included the first floor and was reportedly lost, raising concerns about their efficiency and service quality. Bobby also mentioned the option of working with Empire through CRO, adding complexity to the decision-making process. The board was tasked with approving the mold remediation and flooring work, contingent on receiving satisfactory final quotes, emphasizing the importance of fiscal prudence and due diligence.

23:44Compensation for the highway superintendent was another topic, as the board deliberated on overtime compensation for extensive hours worked during winter snow and ice removal. The superintendent logged approximately 140 hours of overtime, prompting a proposal to compensate any hours beyond a baseline of 125 at a time-and-a-half rate. A proposal emerged to consider hours over 80 as compensable.

46:52Budgetary considerations also featured prominently in the meeting. The board reviewed Article 2, proposing a $169,883 increase in the general fund budget. Employee costs, driven by wage and health insurance increases, accounted for a portion of this increase. The Selectboard unanimously approved the article, despite concerns about the financial strain. Article 10, involving a $25,000 transfer to a stabilization fund, was passed, as was Article 11 concerning the capital state highway stabilization fund, with discussions about deferring capital improvements for an aging excavator and the potential financial ramifications.

Further, the board addressed several articles related to community projects and governance. Article 27, concerning a fire department appointment, was recommended without dissent, as was Article 28. Article 29, involving potential changes to caucus procedures, was also recommended despite possible language adjustments. The board unanimously backed Articles 30 and 31, which corrected previous Community Preservation Committee fund allocations.

01:20:34Updates from the town administrator included repairs at the transfer station, scheduled to begin on May 20th, with insurance checks facilitating the initial setup. Complications with the electrical setup raised potential permitting issues with the Department of Environmental Protection, potentially delaying further progress. The board also discussed the green communities street lights grant application, exploring energy-saving options by suggesting lower wattage LED fixtures.

01:24:54Staffing challenges were noted, particularly for home and driving services, with only one application received. The board expressed concerns about hiring optics and suggested keeping these positions on the agenda to ensure grant funding coverage. Additionally, data sharing with state officials on flooding and infrastructure was discussed, with assurances of confidentiality.