During the meeting, attention centered on the need for clearer communication and protocols regarding emergency repairs. There was a consensus that current procedures hinder the highway department’s ability to promptly address urgent situations. It was suggested that a new protocol be established, distinguishing emergency work from planned projects to ensure that necessary repairs can proceed without bureaucratic delays. The police department’s role as the initial point of contact in emergencies was emphasized.

The Board also discussed the management of snow removal operations, recognizing the long hours and challenges faced by crews during severe weather events. The logistical demands of balancing emergency responses with routine snow management tasks were highlighted, with suggestions to improve notifications to the highway department to enhance efficiency.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on the proposed expansion of the sewer system. The Board examined plans to extend services from a pump station on South Street, looping around to Elm Street. This expansion aims to serve areas currently limited by capacity, with particular attention to those experiencing septic system failures. However, the exclusion of Main Street from the expansion plan sparked debate. Concerns were raised about the environmental impact of failing septic systems along Main Street, particularly their discharge into the Jones River. One Board member questioned the rationale behind prioritizing other areas, advocating for the inclusion of Main Street in the expansion to address these pressing environmental issues.

The Board acknowledged the challenge of balancing environmental needs with infrastructure capabilities, noting that limited capacity necessitates careful planning. The necessity for additional tanks to address nitrogen issues in Kingston Bay was also emphasized, with future infrastructure development plans for Main Street requiring coordination to avoid redundancy.

In another critical discussion, the Board reviewed updates on the town’s water supply infrastructure. Kristen provided an update on the new well project, noting that the project consultant, Kleinfelder, had shared a revised schedule indicating progress despite delays. A decision regarding the appropriate screen size for the new test well loomed, with a 50-slot screen necessary to achieve optimal production rates. While the contractor, Mar Services, did not have the required screen available, efforts to procure it were underway, albeit with potential delays.

Further discussions revolved around ensuring the site’s accessibility for drilling equipment, with the team working on regrading the area to accommodate the necessary specifications. The project’s timeline remained a priority, with expectations for drilling to commence once the appropriate equipment was secured.

The meeting also addressed financial management challenges, particularly the allocation of costs among departments and the need for collaboration between the accountant and staff members. Suggestions were made to develop a formula for justifying budget allocations and to schedule joint meetings for better communication and coordination.

During the discussion on financial matters, the potential recovery of $200,000 from the town’s enterprise accounts was noted, emphasizing the importance of proper fund allocation. Concerns about the disproportionate increase in allocated costs compared to individual department budgets were raised, prompting calls for alignment with the town’s overall budget increases.

The Board concluded with discussions on new business, including requests for abatements and the approval of water liens totaling over $80,000 for the fiscal year. The necessity for a structured policy to handle future abatement requests was acknowledged.