One notable issue discussed was the Hampden-Wilham Regional School District Regional Agreement. The conversation revolved around the equitable sharing of capital costs for potential improvements at Wilham Middle School, should it be designated as a regional school. A feasibility study underscored various unmet capital needs, particularly with the prospect of consolidating schools due to increasing student numbers. The committee saw the necessity of a joint meeting between the select boards from both towns to negotiate a fair solution. An initial meeting had been scheduled but was canceled when Wilham’s select board requested their legal counsel’s presence, prompting a debate on the necessity of legal involvement.

Participants generally agreed that legal counsel was unnecessary at this stage, as discussions had not been contentious. The urgency of the matter was emphasized, with a tentative meeting date set for March 20th, just after the master plan public forum on March 18th. Concerns were raised about ongoing negotiations, pointing to a “Bugaboo” regarding a building still on the books in Wilham, and the potential reopening of old grievances tied to previous student placements. The regional agreement with the high school served as a reference point, particularly regarding capital expenditure allocation based on student ratios.

The next issue of importance was the ambulance service contract with Action Ambulance, represented remotely by Rob Uhor, the CFO. The proposed contract entailed a three-year renewal with two one-year extensions and a 3% increase. Uhor emphasized the significance of integrating the rebate to prevent cost spikes. He also addressed the potential impact of federal and state reimbursement changes, assuring that any significant alterations would lead to discussions with the town. The need for a written contract with provisions to reopen discussions if necessary was stressed, along with the importance of mutual collaboration.

Staffing levels at Action Ambulance were also reviewed, with Uhor acknowledging improvements following illness-related challenges. Collections for the first half of the year were slightly up compared to the previous year, with specific figures showing a 2.4% increase in the Medicare rate as of January 1st. The importance of documenting contract terms was underscored, particularly concerning subsidies and government reimbursement changes.

The board ventured into financial matters, focusing on the library relocation and associated costs. Two quotes for moving services were evaluated: a $70,000 full-service move and a $50,000 option requiring the town to pack items. A third quote, over $30,000, was pending further clarification. Discussions also covered the condition of existing library furniture and the potential need for new pieces, given the age and material of current items. The IT infrastructure, specifically the status of switches and wireless access points, was examined, with plans to apply for a grant to update equipment highlighted.

Financial planning discussions extended to the upcoming budget, with a proposed $30,000 increase in employee benefits, bringing the total to $782,000. The salary reduction of the Board of Health coordinator, contingent on removing facility management duties, was proposed alongside the introduction of a new facility manager role. Budgetary considerations encompassed a $42,000 increase in property and liability insurance due to new hires and the costs of a new fire truck and existing equipment maintenance.

The water project’s progress was reviewed, with upcoming meetings and interviews for the Board of Health coordinator position, potentially merging with the water clerk role, being planned. Concerns about whether one person could handle both emergency and clerical duties were noted. Rising electric costs at Academy Hall and potential energy efficiency improvements were also discussed, with suggestions to leverage Mass Save programs and investigate a regional energy manager grant.