The most pressing topic of the meeting was the discussion on the management and funding of the town’s cemetery operations. A comprehensive overview was provided by the DPW Director, Ezekiel, who clarified the financial regulations governing cemetery operations, particularly the sale of cemetery lots and the associated fees. According to Massachusetts General Law, proceeds from these sales must be deposited into the town treasury and used to reimburse the town for land care, improvements, and ongoing operations. The cemetery superintendent is responsible for managing the sale of lots and reporting receipts to the cemetery commission.

A committee member inquired about the reimbursement process for individuals who no longer require their purchased plots. Ezekiel explained that families moving out of town may request refunds, which are contingent upon cemetery commission approval. If a plot had been held for a long period, the commission might withhold some funds for perpetual care already utilized. The discussion also included instances where families have exhumed bodies and sought refunds, which, while uncommon, do occur. The committee emphasized the importance of transparency and adherence to established regulations in managing these funds.

Attention then turned to the Perpetual Care Trust Fund, which is important for the cemetery’s long-term sustainability. This fund is divided into two components: a non-expendable principal for investment and an expendable interest portion for operations and capital improvements. Concerns were raised about the current interest earnings from the trust fund, noting that the approximately $219,000 in the fund had not seen significant growth due to low interest rates. The committee discussed the importance of managing the interest generated to enhance fund growth, enabling more operational capabilities for the cemetery.

The conversation then shifted to the condition of historical grave sites, particularly those from the 1700s and 1800s, which are reportedly in disrepair. The Cemetery Commission has identified restoration projects for gravestones, potentially requiring substantial funding. Discussion included potential funding sources such as federal and state grants, although it was acknowledged that more proactive research is needed to secure financial support. A specific funding request for monument restoration and stone wall repairs was mentioned, totaling approximately $285,000, highlighting the need for maintenance and restoration work.

Ownership of the gravestones was another point of discussion, with questions about whether the town has taken back ownership of these stones. The commission members expressed uncertainty regarding the town’s responsibilities for maintaining these graves, complicating funding and care obligations. The possibility of utilizing Chapter 90 funding for cemetery road maintenance was discussed, though it remained unclear whether cemetery access roads qualify under this funding. The ongoing efforts to have the cemetery recognized in the town’s historic inventory were noted, as this registration could unlock additional grant opportunities.

Switching focus, the committee also discussed the implementation of a high-deductible health plan (HDHP) for town employees. One participant introduced the concept, explaining that HDHPs could lead to lower monthly premiums, increased savings for employees, and greater financial flexibility. There was curiosity about the town’s contribution to the health insurance plan, with one member confirming it is generally around 50% of the total costs.

A member recounted their experience with a municipality that transitioned to an HSA plan, noting that higher deductibles raised out-of-pocket expenses, but the lower premiums could offset these costs if employees utilized their savings effectively. They emphasized the importance of educating and preparing employees to understand the benefits of these plans.

Concerns were raised about the proposed deductibles being higher than those typically seen in the private sector. Additionally, the need for clarity on how the town’s contributions to HSAs would be taxed was highlighted, with potential implications for employees receiving 1099 forms and incurring tax obligations. The potential for different deductible amounts for in-network versus out-of-network care was also mentioned, with impacts on out-of-pocket costs for employees.

The committee expressed general agreement on the need for more information and calculations before moving forward with any decisions regarding the HDHP. They emphasized the necessity of forming a committee involving employees, union representatives, and town management to collaboratively discuss and refine the proposed health plan.

Finally, the committee reviewed the timeline for the upcoming special town meeting, focusing on the opening and closing of the warrant and the capital plan, which is ahead of schedule this year. Concerns were raised about the timing of the budget presentation and the feasibility of conducting a public hearing without an intervening meeting to discuss public feedback. The committee discussed the need for a more streamlined budgeting process. They proposed consulting with the interim town manager about his budgeting practices to potentially restructure the format for shorter, more efficient meetings.