15:58The hearing began with detailed accounts of Smith’s actions, including a letter from the Hatfield Housing Authority highlighting his repeated absences from board meetings without notice, failure to complete mandatory training, and general lack of engagement, which hampered the board’s ability to function effectively. Witnesses noted that Smith’s behavior had caused tension and disrupted the board’s operations, particularly in achieving quorums for essential business. His noncompliance with training requirements was confirmed by a state tracking system, which showed he had missed the deadline for completion.

23:48Further testimony from Alex Malanowski, the chair of the Housing Authority, revealed that Smith’s lack of communication and participation compounded the board’s difficulties in conducting business. He noted that Smith’s actions had led to delays in projects, such as a crucial parking lot development, and created an atmosphere of discord among board members. The project, planned for years, faced opposition from Smith, who advocated for changes contrary to the established plans and previously secured grants. This opposition, along with his absence from meetings, necessitated workarounds with a new board member filling the gap to move the project forward.

19:52John Wils, a former Housing Authority member, recounted additional challenges with Smith, including an unfounded request for decades of records to purportedly investigate inefficiencies. The request was seen as impractical and contributed to a strained working environment. Smith’s confrontational approach was cited as a factor in the board’s reduced meeting times, which had previously extended to two hours but were now often concluded in 20 minutes due to improved cooperation without his presence.

31:10Tensions escalated when Smith contacted the attorney general, alleging violations of open meeting laws by Wils, a charge the attorney general later found unsubstantiated. Wils emphasized that Smith’s behavior, described as condescending and belittling, further strained the board’s ability to work collaboratively. The executive director of the Housing Authority noted feeling threatened by Smith’s conduct, prompting consultation with law enforcement.

01:53:19The hearing underscored a deep-seated division within the Housing Authority, with multiple board members expressing frustration over Smith’s repeated challenges to their decisions and questioning his motivations, particularly in relation to tenant health and safety. Allegations of unethical behavior and accusations of impropriety were prevalent, although Smith countered these claims by questioning the legitimacy of his removal process and the board’s adherence to proper protocols.

01:25:36Smith’s testimony highlighted what he perceived as a hostile environment fostered by the board, asserting that his removal lacked proper documentation and was not formally acknowledged in Housing Authority agendas. He argued that the focus should shift from his removal to addressing broader issues within the Authority, such as the suspension of its executive director and potential collaborations with neighboring housing authorities.

02:03:46The Select Board’s decision to remove Smith was not made lightly, with members deliberating over the legal and procedural implications. Despite his removal, there was concern that Smith could still pursue a write-in campaign for the upcoming election. The board emphasized the need to uphold standards of conduct and support committees that volunteer their time.

02:06:11Beyond the Housing Authority issue, the Select Board addressed other matters, including the approval of the job description for the Director of the Department of Public Works (DPW). The board reviewed the qualifications and responsibilities required for the position, emphasizing the need for expertise in procurement and relevant state laws. The job description was circulated for feedback to ensure thoroughness and collaboration in the hiring process.

02:12:40Additionally, the board discussed a Municipal Vulnerability Planning (MVP) grant aimed at addressing climate change challenges.