13:50A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the fiscal year 2026 budget discussion, where the council examined the town manager’s proposed capital improvement and operating budget. The chair of the financial oversight committee praised the collaborative efforts of the town manager, budgeters, and school department, despite challenges such as rising health insurance and employee benefits costs. The school department’s budget experienced a 2.5% increase, while other town departments saw a 2.26% rise. The committee highlighted the successful effort to avoid increasing taxes to the levy limit, a priority for the community, though voiced concerns over the semi-level services budget, which required cuts.

24:33During public hearings on the budget, resident Ralph Mler raised issues regarding unfulfilled paving projects, expressing frustration over the deterioration of roads and questioning the allocation of previously designated funds. In response, the council explained that federal and state governments would cover construction costs, while the town needed to contribute to design expenses. The conversation shifted to the necessity for a new loader and the status of emergency vehicle leases, with concerns about delayed vehicle deliveries impacting town services.

01:40:39The council also discussed funding challenges for the Chestnut Pump Station project. Initially authorized at $1.975 million, project costs have escalated to $2.7 million. The council approved transferring funds from previously repaid loans to cover the shortfall without incurring additional debt. This financial adjustment was necessary due to a miscommunication and lost document that complicated earlier funding plans.

01:15:10The zoning bylaw amendments concerning massage therapy facilities were another focal point. Proposed changes would eliminate the special permit requirement for these businesses, allowing them to operate by right in certain zoning districts. The planning board advocated for this change, citing the rigorous state licensing process as sufficient oversight. However, council members and the public raised concerns about potential illicit activities and the ability to swiftly address such issues without the special permit mechanism.

01:16:04Additionally, the council debated adopting local options under the Hero Act, focusing on increasing exemption benefits for veterans and seniors. While a 50% increase was proposed, some members advocated for a 100% increase, citing the financial burdens faced by these groups. The council expressed a willingness to explore funding options to support a full exemption increase, emphasizing the importance of balancing community needs with fiscal responsibility.

01:56:41The council also revisited the topic of recreational marijuana sales, a proposal previously rejected by voters. Discussions centered on whether to present the issue in a future ballot, allowing for more public input and education on the matter. The potential for recreational marijuana sales sparked debate about the community’s readiness and the procedural steps necessary to enact such changes.

01:20Before concluding, the council evaluated Town Manager Tom Christensen, with the results reflecting generally favorable performance scores, particularly in fiscal management. The evaluation outlined goals for the upcoming year, including the completion of a building and space study and improvements to the town’s infrastructure.