The meeting opened with a presentation from Becky of the Council on Aging (COA), who outlined the COA’s budget for fiscal year 2027. Becky detailed salary adjustments for the director and receptionist positions due to increased hours, though not responsibilities. She stressed the necessity of these changes, particularly given the current lean budget year. Becky voiced concerns about a 25% reduction in funding from the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) for SNAP applications, which could impact the distribution of personal needs bags. To address this, she suggested establishing a collection box at town hall for community donations. Discussions also touched on staffing hours, with a board member suggesting an increase to 40 hours from 39 per week. Becky acknowledged this need but expressed hesitation due to budget constraints.

Transitioning to infrastructure matters, the condition of the Milro Road bridge was a significant topic. One member remarked on the misallocation of resources, emphasizing the neglect of local roads like Laughing Brook on Main Street. This commentary highlighted broader concerns about state priorities and local infrastructure needs. The selectmen also discussed the financial implications of road maintenance, particularly regarding Chapter 90 funding. With $233,000 remaining from the previous year’s allocation, members debated the best use of these funds, considering future projects and potential state funding. The board was keen to preserve funds for essential roadwork, emphasizing the importance of careful financial planning.

Another focal point was the Park and Recreation Commission’s draft agreement, which aimed to clarify responsibilities within town facilities. The discussion centered on maintenance duties, particularly for gymnasium lighting and building repairs. The commissioners expressed uncertainty about equipment rental responsibilities, such as a lift for changing gym lights, historically borrowed from the school district. The board emphasized the need for clear communication between the town facilities director and the commission to ensure maintenance tasks were prioritized effectively, highlighting concerns about coordination and resource allocation.

Additionally, the board addressed the ongoing challenges faced by the highway department, including hiring qualified CDL drivers. Increased stringency in obtaining a CDL has complicated recruitment efforts, raising concerns about the availability of experienced individuals to operate heavy machinery safely. Discussions also covered potential equipment acquisitions, such as a new F250 pickup equipped with a plow, to replace an aging vehicle. The urgency of this purchase was underscored by concerns over rising prices and operational flexibility.

In other matters, the meeting addressed snow removal responsibilities around town facilities, especially the gymnasium and park and recreation back door. Coordination for events was noted as important to ensure timely snow removal. The board acknowledged appreciation for individuals like Dan and Mark, who have taken the initiative in maintaining these areas. The board also discussed the impact of town events like safety nights and fireworks on athletic fields, advocating for better management to prevent damage.

Website accessibility issues were also on the agenda, as members expressed frustration over difficulties in updating certain pages. Solutions were proposed, including a review of settings to facilitate more efficient updates. Humor infused this discussion, with anecdotes about a long-lost key used to unlock decades-old cabinets, prompting laughter among attendees.

The meeting also touched on the public health nurse position, with one member recommending its elimination. This suggestion was based on the position’s initial funding by the CARES Act, with assurances that its removal would not affect shared health services. The board planned further discussions on the budget, noting minimal increases despite incorporating cost-of-living adjustments.

The selectmen concluded with updates on various projects and future meetings. They noted the upcoming Eagle Court of Honor for two scouts and addressed correspondence from Boy Scout group 359. The meeting also included discussions on signage for the select board’s meeting room, emphasizing the need for clarity in room numbering and names. Energy efficiency assessments from AEG were reported, focusing on potential savings in weatherization, lighting, and HVAC systems.