A major topic of discussion was Article 44, which currently mandates mediation between town agencies before any legal proceedings commence. Concerns were raised about the provision that prohibits the use of town funds for legal counsel unless mediation has occurred. This could prove problematic in urgent situations, particularly for the planning board, which is legally required to appeal issued variances within 20 days. Suggestions were made to amend the article to allow exceptions for immediate action where necessary, proposing a reasonable timeframe for mediation, such as 30 days, to avoid undue delays.

The committee also scrutinized accounts receivable aging related to unpaid back taxes. It was noted that the overlay account, which offsets uncollected taxes, must be adequately funded. If back tax receivables are transferred to tax title, the necessity of the overlay could be reevaluated. Concerns over significant amounts involved were expressed, with plans to revisit this issue in the spring and potentially bring forward proposals in the fall.

Attention then turned to the composition of the screening committee for appointing a town administrator. Currently composed of nine members, including representatives from various boards, questions were raised about the inclusion of the personnel board in this process. The concern centered around potential conflicts of interest, as the town administrator appoints all personnel board members. Discussions explored whether the select board should have an additional pick or if another elected board should join the screening committee for a more balanced approach. Clarification was provided that special legislation would remove the charter requirement that designates the personnel board as the COAD administrator of the personnel pay plan and department, reflecting more modern personnel management practices within the town.

The meeting further addressed the status of the Information Systems Advisory Board and the Cable Advisory Board, with reports of difficulty in obtaining updates from these boards. It was noted that there had been changes, such as the reorganization of the Information Services department, merging municipal and school IT functions under one director. This led to concerns about the impact on the advisory board’s operations. A recommendation was made to discuss these changes with the town manager to understand their effects and improve board efficacy.

Additionally, the committee reviewed various bylaw articles, including those related to building regulations, sewer assessments, and wetland protection stormwater management. Article 81, concerning underground fuel or chemical storage tanks, was discussed with a proposal to include propane under regulated substances. The health director’s input and the fire chief’s stance, which deferred involvement due to existing fire code laws, were noted.

Financial matters were also addressed, particularly the approval of an invoice from special counsel totaling $9,901.10 for necessary proofreading work. The committee confirmed that sufficient funds remained in the special counsel budget, and the invoice was approved unanimously.