The board’s deliberations on the interim town accountant appointment and the assistant town accountant’s authority were extensive. Carly Manian, previously responsible for financial tasks in Boxboro and Stoneham, was introduced as the interim town accountant. Her appointment was approved unanimously to fill the void until a permanent accountant is found. The board also explored the procedural intricacies surrounding the assistant town accountant’s authority to sign payroll and accounts payable warrants. This issue arose because auditors flagged the absence of a formal procedure, demanding clarity on the assistant town accountant’s role during the town accountant’s absences.

Member Tusk scrutinized the motion’s language, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between short-term and long-term absences and the responsibilities of the interim and assistant town accountants. The town manager explained that the proposal aimed to formalize the assistant town accountant’s authority, establishing a 30-day time frame to differentiate between temporary and extended duties. Despite some disagreement on the necessity of differentiating between being unavailable and unable, the motion was revised to authorize the assistant town accountant to act in the town accountant’s absence. If the assistant was to perform these duties for more than a month, the board would reevaluate the situation to determine if an interim appointment was warranted.

Following this, the board discussed plans for the upcoming 250th anniversary celebration, particularly during the Falconfest event on August 9. There was enthusiasm for setting up a tent to distribute promotional items like t-shirts, featuring the town’s name and celebratory messages. However, logistical challenges were significant due to the limited time frame and questions about the board’s authority to use the town seal on promotional materials. Concerns were raised about whether the board could solicit funds for the t-shirts, with estimates suggesting costs between $3,000 to $4,000. The board debated the feasibility of organizing the logistics and fundraising within ten days, considering procurement laws that restrict direct awarding of contracts without proper procedures.

Additionally, the conversation touched on the potential for a select board presence at Falcon Fest to engage with residents. The idea of setting up a visibility table was met with mixed reactions, with some members seeing it as a valuable opportunity for community interaction, while others expressed concerns about the board’s role at such events.

Despite these challenges, there was a consensus on the importance of community engagement, with some members suggesting a more structured approach for future events. The board recognized the potential for community interaction at events like the upcoming DPW’s “Touch a Truck” on September 12, which would allow more time for planning and organization.

The meeting concluded with a nod to past community events and the logistical complexities of organizing parades, particularly in the context of public disappointment regarding the absence of a 250th anniversary parade. Members acknowledged the significant planning and financial deliberations required for such events, reiterating that financial decisions must undergo town meeting approvals.