The board unanimously approved the tax work program for 2026 after considerable discussion. The program allows seniors to work in exchange for tax credits, with a requirement that participants be at least 60 years old and homeowners for a minimum of five years. Concerns were raised regarding the physical demands of the work, such as maintenance jobs, which might be challenging for some seniors. It was suggested that while the tasks could be physically demanding, department heads should have discretion in candidate selection.

To ensure the eligibility of participants, the board confirmed that assessors would verify age and residency. The selection of candidates would be conducted through a lottery system, maintaining fairness in the process. A motion to include a park position in the program was also passed without opposition.

The board spent a portion of the meeting discussing the outreach coordinator position at the Hamlin Senior Center. Becky Morardi, the center’s executive director, requested a job description change for this role, proposing a grade and step change. Morardi highlighted that the current compensation did not reflect the workload and responsibilities of the position, especially given the individual’s long tenure. The board agreed that the outreach coordinator’s current grade was insufficient, particularly when compared to other administrative positions within the town. They recognized the need for a reassessment based on the position’s responsibilities rather than the individual’s experience alone.

The board approved a motion to restructure the outreach coordinator position, with a corresponding grade adjustment, acknowledging the increased responsibilities the role had undertaken over recent years due to staff turnover. This decision allows for a step evaluation based on the individual’s experience.

Further discussions during the meeting revolved around preparations for the move to the new Town Hall. Concerns were expressed about the condition of the meeting room floor, where tiles had begun to come loose during a waxing process, creating safety issues. While a temporary solution involving a larger area rug was proposed, members agreed that a more permanent fix was necessary. They deliberated on the potential costs and emphasized the importance of investing in a comprehensive solution rather than repeatedly addressing the issue with temporary measures.

In addition to the structural concerns, the board discussed the upcoming tree lighting event. Scheduled for a Sunday, the event faced logistical challenges, including electrical power issues for the tree. The possibility of using an extension cord was suggested as a contingency plan. A bake sale request from the PTO was also discussed, with considerations about coordinating with the Board of Health for necessary permits. While some members expressed a preference for maintaining the tradition of offering free cookies, there was general support for the bake sale initiative.

The board also touched on discussions with the Town of Wilberham regarding the regional agreement, with a focus on issues related to the Wilberham Middle School and its HVAC systems. Members expressed a willingness to engage in talks, suggesting a meeting be scheduled for early December or late November, after the town’s relocation to the new Town Hall.