The search for a new Town Manager has been a focal point for Danvers since the process began in November 2024. Bernie Lynch, attending the meeting virtually, provided an update on the recruitment process. After extensive outreach and a review by the screening committee, three finalists emerged from a pool of 31 applicants: Jill Cahill, Sean Fitzgerald, and Patrice Garvin. The selection process was careful, with emphasis on candidates’ management styles, communication skills, and financial acumen. Cahill, Fitzgerald, and Garvin each bring unique qualifications, with backgrounds ranging from administrative roles in Gloucester and Belmont to regional planning expertise.

The final interviews are scheduled to take place on March 12th, with each candidate allocated a one-hour slot. The board has the option to make a selection that night or defer the decision until March 18th. Lynch expressed his readiness to assist the board with any follow-up questions or contract negotiations, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive and fair selection process. Residents have been encouraged to participate by submitting questions for consideration.

In addition to the Town Manager selection, the board examined the fiscal year 2024 audit report presented by Scott McIntyre, a partner at the town’s auditing firm, which has recently become part of CBIZ. The audit revealed a “clean opinion” on Danvers’ financial statements. McIntyre highlighted a decrease in the town’s net pension liability to approximately $94.9 million due to favorable investment earnings, while the net Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB) liability increased to nearly $122 million.

The town’s financial standing was further dissected, with an $8.4 million increase in the total fund balance, reaching about $40.8 million as of June 30, 2024. The unassigned fund balance rose to $21.9 million, representing over 18% of the town’s general fund expenditures. This financial health is reflected in the surplus of about $12.5 million, driven by higher-than-expected revenues from motor vehicle excise taxes and investment income, alongside lower expenditures.

A significant topic discussed was the risk of management override of internal controls, a common concern in audits that necessitates vigilance and robust controls. The auditors reassured the board that such risks are not unique to Danvers and outlined the steps taken to mitigate them, including quantitative and qualitative assessments of financial practices.

A public hearing was also held to discuss the layout and acceptance of several private roads as public ways, a move aimed at accessing state funds for road management. Streets like Hunt and Crane have been receiving town services despite their private status, and the board took steps to formalize their public way status in preparation for a vote at the May 25 town meeting. This initiative involved discussions about the financial implications and the historical context of these roads’ development.

The meeting also touched on the topic of opioid settlement funds, with Danvers set to receive a total of $1.5 million in restricted funds for opioid harm reduction. The town manager clarified plans for these funds, emphasizing the importance of using them to enhance prevention resources rather than covering existing expenses. A strategy for their use is expected in collaboration with local health and safety departments.

Additional discussions included concerns about the town’s growing free cash balance and the implications of inflated budgets on taxpayers. Public comments were made regarding potential warning signs in the financial audit and the handling of the town’s restricted net position. The board acknowledged the need for careful financial management while addressing public concerns.