One of the most notable discussions was the highway department’s budget, particularly concerning the costs associated with stormwater management. New mandates under the updated MS4 permitting regulations have imposed a substantial financial burden on the department, with projected costs reaching $182,500. The increased budget is necessary to meet these regulatory requirements, which include critical projects such as installing filtering systems to mitigate runoff near lakes. The committee recognized that relying solely on the general fund might not be sustainable, leading to the proposal of a stormwater management enterprise fund. This fund would charge residents based on their property’s contribution to stormwater runoff.

The dialogue also highlighted the intersection of state and local responsibilities in managing stormwater. Questions were raised about why state highways do not contribute to local stormwater management expenses, given their impact on runoff. It was clarified that the state’s involvement is confined to maintenance on designated state routes, leaving local roads under municipal responsibility. This disparity underscores the need for innovative funding solutions at the local level, such as the proposed enterprise fund.

Attention then turned to the police department’s budget, which saw an overall 4.4% increase despite a notable decrease in wages due to the retirement of two senior officers. The budget discussions included considerations for overtime wages, which are critical for covering shifts and training. The average overtime expense over the past three years was approximately $245,034, with the upcoming year’s budget level-funded at $225,000. This allocation is necessary to backfill shifts and meet training requirements, highlighting the department’s efforts to maintain operations within financial limits.

The department is also planning for future expenses, including sending officers to the Municipal Police Training Academy, where tuition costs are expected to rise significantly. Additionally, the budget for cruiser maintenance remains level-funded, with a focus on continuing the cruiser replacement plan to avoid increased repair costs as vehicles age. The chief emphasized the importance of the proposed police boat, noting its potential impact on staffing and enforcement capabilities on local lakes. If the proposal fails at the town meeting, it could affect the department’s ability to effectively manage lake safety.

The library’s budget was another focal point, particularly in light of the director’s upcoming retirement and the potential implications for staffing and operations. The director’s salary and library staff wages were discussed, with adjustments anticipated once a new hire is secured. The director also highlighted the library’s reliance on an incentive grant from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners, which provides crucial funding for programs and improvements. With a balance of approximately $40,000 remaining in the grant account, the director expressed caution in spending before the town meeting, given the variable nature of state aid.

The committee engaged in a dialogue about the potential consequences of reducing library hours, which would necessitate staffing cuts and impact program availability. The director explained that a reduction in hours would increase the required spending on materials to maintain state aid eligibility.

Public participation brought additional insights, with library trustee Ellen Snow expressing concerns about potential cuts to library hours. She emphasized the library’s role as a safe space for students and the broader community, cautioning that even minor staff hour reductions could affect the library’s ability to serve the public. Concerns were also raised about the implications of reducing library hours on state certification and the need to adjust the materials budget accordingly.

The meeting also touched on other budgetary concerns, such as the cemetery superintendent’s salary, solid waste and recycling expenses, and the intricacies of budgeting for equipment purchases within the highway department. Mary, a committee member, raised questions about unspent funds from approved projects, emphasizing the need for clarity and accountability in the budgeting process. The response clarified that unspent funds are recertified as free cash for the following year, adhering to state law and ensuring transparency in financial management.