01:13:44The board approved a comprehensive sick leave bank policy. This policy, part of the Salary Administrative Plan adopted during a special town meeting, is designed to extend sick leave benefits to all employees, including those in bargaining units. The policy stipulates that employees can enroll in the sick leave bank after one year of service, with immediate benefit access following enrollment. However, those who initially opt-out will need to wait a year after re-enrolling to access benefits. The policy also allows employees to donate unused sick time upon separation from the town, with a suggested limit of two days.

Concerns about confidentiality were addressed by restructuring the sick leave bank committee to exclude a Select Board member. Discussions also covered the maximum number of days an employee can draw from the bank, with a consensus to increase this from 15 to 30 days to better support serious medical conditions. The board acknowledged that the sick leave bank would not cover care for family members, as such cases fall under the Family and Medical Leave Act.

01:48:20In parallel, the board delved into the potential sale of a tax title property on Karav. An initial appraisal estimated at $500 rose to $2,000, a necessary step to determine the property’s “highest and best value” before deciding on its sale or retention. The board expressed interest in a site visit to evaluate the property collectively, facilitating informed discussions on its future. A legislative proposal for a tax amnesty program was introduced, suggesting flexible options for municipalities to waive penalties or interest, thus encouraging property owners to settle tax debts and return properties to the tax rolls.

56:10Committee assignments were another point of focus, emphasizing the need for reorganizing and ensuring continuity in representation across various town committees. Discussions included extending the application deadline for committee vacancies to May 30 to encourage further recruitment, especially for the Conservation Commission, which struggles with minimal quorum. The board considered placing advertisements in local media and leveraging social media for recruitment efforts. The importance of committee roles in securing funding for projects, such as those managed by the Montachusett Regional Transit Authority and Montachusett Metropolitan Planning Organization, was underscored, with board members expressing willingness to continue participation despite infrequent meetings.

48:55Attention shifted to the delegation of enforcement authority for unregistered vehicles to the building commissioner, intending to expedite complaint resolutions without necessitating board meetings for each case. The board unanimously supported this delegation to streamline processes and focus on compliance over punishment.

54:01The meeting also addressed the surplus declaration of items from the adult activity center, including chairs and a piano, allowing for repurposing or auctioning under state procurement laws. The board reviewed a letter of support for Senate Bill 400. This letter highlighted the inadequacies of the current Chapter 70 formula and the financial burden it places on local governments.