03:04A significant portion of the meeting centered around the police department budget, with the chief discussing an anticipated 8 to 10 percent increase in the operating budget, separate from tax rate implications. A contentious topic was the School Resource Officer (SRO) position at Green Meadows School. The chief proposed integrating the SRO duties into existing officers’ schedules instead of relying on overtime. The necessity of having a certified officer and the evolved nature of the SRO program were emphasized, given the requirement for POST certification.

Board members debated whether the SRO position could be combined with regular patrol duties as a cost-saving measure. However, contractual obligations and the need for specific certifications posed challenges to this approach. The complexities of balancing budget constraints with school safety needs were acknowledged, and no resolution was reached.

16:00The meeting also addressed the aging law enforcement equipment, notably the fleet of cruisers nearing 80,000 miles, and the possible transition from .45 caliber to 9mm handguns for cost savings. The need for a firearms instructor and a supporting position to oversee training was underscored. Anticipated results from a recent sergeant exam, involving four officers, were discussed, with procedural requirements for the selection process outlined. Additionally, the board touched on detail requests for community service projects, including a water project requiring officer involvement.

21:59The water district update revealed that 25 out of 28 residents had agreed to connect to the water service, with three outstanding. A particular property on Scantic Crow faced challenges due to the $90,000 estimated cost for directional boring. The resident’s concerns about property impact were noted, with the board exploring options for remediation or continued testing. The unpredictable nature of future testing results and the potential reduction in testing frequency were discussed.

38:06The board also engaged in a lively exchange about a proposed community event, “Rock into Summer,” scheduled for June 19th. The event, featuring live music and dancing, sought an entertainment license and a one-day beer and wine permit. John Sullivan, a local business owner, was set to manage alcohol service, with a proven track record of compliance. A “last call” for alcohol at 8:30 PM was suggested to ensure the event concluded responsibly. The board unanimously supported Sullivan’s permit application, pending school district approval.

52:51The discussion transitioned to preparations for the upcoming annual town meeting, where motions were reviewed and assigned. The senior building committee proposed reducing their funding request by spreading renovation costs over two fiscal years. The board debated the need for multiple votes on amendments and articles, emphasizing clear communication of fiscal responsibilities to the community.

01:09:35Further, the board reviewed various liquor license requests for events, including art shows, dinner dances, and fundraisers. There was light-hearted banter about recurring events like “Jack and Jill” parties. The board also addressed executive session minutes, deciding which to release publicly and which to hold confidentially.

01:19:42In terms of logistical planning, the board authorized a landfill testing contract and discussed staffing needs within the highway department, noting ongoing interviews for open positions. The board considered distributing a one-page document related to town meeting articles online for transparency. Concerns about babysitter provisions and seating arrangements at town meetings were raised, with outdoor meetings suggested as an alternative if capacity issues arose.