The discussion around the school budget was particularly significant, with board members and residents alike expressing concern over proposed cuts to special education and early childhood teachers. As one board member pointed out, these reductions seem counterintuitive, given the need for specialized educational support. The board highlighted the disconnect between the town’s budget, which grows modestly at 2.5% plus new growth, and the school department’s financial requirements, which have recently led to requests for budget overrides. This concern was compounded by a dramatic increase in the school budget deficit, which leapt from one million dollars in January to a projected $3.5 million by February, raising alarms about future fiscal stability.

The board underscored the urgency of addressing these budgetary challenges, advocating for a comprehensive five-year spreadsheet to monitor funding changes across departments. They also called for accountability from state officials concerning unfunded mandates, which add financial pressures to the school system. As discussions continue, a joint meeting with the school committee was proposed to further explore these issues and educate the board on the implications of unfunded mandates. The meeting with the school committee was tentatively scheduled for early March.

In the realm of public comments, residents voiced concerns about a range of issues, most notably municipal transparency. Glenn McLoud criticized the management of town buildings. Meanwhile, George Burton raised issues regarding access to finance committee meetings and public records, alleging that the town was not complying with public records request laws. His comments also touched on a controversial vendor associated with human rights violations, questioning the town’s ongoing business relationship with them. Burton concluded with remarks on perceived attempts to incite conflict within the community, particularly between his family and the Hickory Hills neighborhood, due to tax rate changes.

The board also addressed town infrastructure projects, with updates provided by the town manager. Notably, the library’s teen room was completed, and work on the library director’s office was ongoing. Weather-related delays affected the town hall’s roof replacement, and bids for cleaning services were due by March 6. A contract was secured for sidewalk design and ramp replacements, funded by Chapter 90 resources. Additionally, the town manager announced the closure of the town’s financial books for FY 24 with the approval of Schedule A.

Attention was drawn to the municipal building design committee, which was preparing for a public presentation at the annual town meeting. This presentation would include tours of town buildings to inform residents about their conditions and operations. Discussions with bond counsel and town financial officials were underway regarding borrowing plans, should the project advance.

The board also approved a host community agreement for Bliss cannabis after reviewing the Cannabis Control Commission’s draft. One member expressed discomfort with the hiring practices language, but the agreement was ultimately authorized with a 3-1 vote in favor.

The meeting concluded with discussions on administrative matters, including the town’s organizational structure and the management of shared documents. The potential shift from Google Drive to OneDrive was considered, and workplace climate survey results were requested. The meeting room’s temperature was also noted as an ongoing issue, with members discussing possible solutions such as additional heating devices.