The contract for the new Town Administrator was reviewed and amended during the meeting. The board agreed on the necessity of including specific duties, such as notifying the board of all union and non-union contracts and conducting annual performance evaluations for departmental supervisors. These additions aimed to prevent future confusion as board members change over time. Consistency in language was also addressed.

Further scrutiny was given to typographical errors, including an incorrect salary figure, with the board emphasizing the importance of accuracy and transparency. The contract’s key components, including a six-month probationary period, a three-year term starting with a salary of $118,000, and annual performance evaluations, were thoroughly discussed. The board also clarified the conditions under which the Town Administrator could resign, requiring a 90-day notice. A provision for $2,000 in professional development funding, contingent on the town meeting’s budget, was acknowledged as a positive aspect.

An issue regarding compensation for work performed before the official start date sparked debate. Members had varying opinions on calculating this compensation, considering vacation time implications. Despite these differences, there was an understanding of the urgency to finalize the contract to enable the new Town Administrator to give notice at her current position. It was ultimately decided to approve the contract with amendments, deferring the physical signing until all changes were incorporated.

The consensus underscored the importance of clarity and accountability in the hiring process, with the board members recognizing the need for thoroughness before finalizing the contract.

In parallel, the board deliberated on the interim Town Administrator arrangement with the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC), which was initially set to run until March 28, 2025, with a 50-hour limit and a budget cap of $2,840. Given the town’s evolving needs, board members considered whether to maintain this contract or transition sooner to appoint a new Town Administrator. The interim administrator had logged approximately 60 hours in the past two weeks, with an expectation of reaching the 150-hour threshold shortly. The board expressed a preference for flexibility to meet the town’s requirements and discussed the potential involvement of a former Town Administrator if necessary.

The selection of a new Building Commissioner was another focal point, with the board reviewing four candidates. Concerns about the candidates’ qualifications, particularly in computer and communication skills, were voiced. Thomas Quinland emerged as a favored candidate due to his familiarity with Granby and prior work history, although his computer proficiency was noted as an area for potential improvement. The board unanimously voted to extend an offer to Quinland, planning to negotiate contract terms in an executive session.

Infrastructure updates were also addressed, focusing on mechanical upgrades to the Granby Junior Senior High School kitchen, budgeted at $1 million. With only two bids received, concerns were raised about the expenditure, particularly considering potential school regionalization. However, the kitchen’s role as an emergency shelter was emphasized. The board approved a $661,000 contract with General Contracting Solutions, Inc., to proceed with the upgrades.

In addition to these major topics, the meeting touched on long-range planning, upcoming retirements in the highway department, and the scheduling of collaborative meetings to address the town’s needs. The importance of developing a five or ten-year plan was highlighted, with members acknowledging the need for strategic foresight. Scheduling conflicts were noted, but there was a commitment to facilitating collaboration among departments to ensure continuity and address future challenges.

The board also considered revisiting the dog bylaw in light of a recent dog bite incident. A public hearing was proposed to address concerns and potential amendments, with March 31 identified as a suitable date for this discussion. The board acknowledged the need for a clear agenda for upcoming meetings, particularly with the dog bylaw and stormwater management issues on the horizon.