A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the uncertainty surrounding the treasurer collector position. Without a resignation letter from the current treasurer, the town faces operational challenges, as the financial files and responsibilities remain inaccessible to others. The board discussed potential solutions, including a recall vote or calling a special town meeting to address the situation. However, these processes could extend over several months, and there was acknowledgment that even appointing someone to the position could take nearly a year. The board expressed concern about the prolonged delay in receiving the resignation, which complicates the town’s ability to manage its financial affairs effectively. Suggestions were made about involving volunteers to assist temporarily, but this was deemed unlikely to be accepted by the current treasurer.

The board also highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting that without a resolution, the town’s operations could be hindered, especially as the fiscal year comes to a close.

In parallel, the board is grappling with preparations for the FY24 audit, which are being hampered by delays in receiving necessary documents from the treasurer collector’s office. The board emphasized the importance of timely submissions, as a list of over a hundred documents is required by the auditors. The lack of response from the treasurer collector has led to concerns about meeting self-imposed deadlines for the audit process. The board discussed the possibility of securing temporary assistance to ensure the timely completion of the audit, but the absence of a formal resignation complicates this effort.

While addressing these financial challenges, the board also moved forward with the establishment of the Affordable Housing Trust. The trust, in the process of formation for over a year, requires five members, including one from the select board. Two individuals, Maryanne Carrasco and Matthew Manganelli, were appointed to two-year terms, bringing expertise in education and finance, respectively. Steven Johnson was nominated to represent the select board, with his experience in conservation management seen as a valuable asset. The board encouraged public participation to fill the remaining positions, emphasizing the need for experience in finance and affordable housing.

In another development, the board approved a conservation restriction for a 19-acre parcel on Walcott Road, the final paperwork needed for the Mountain Waters grant. This restriction, made possible through Community Preservation Act funding, allows for forest management, public access, and trail development. The parcel is part of a critical bio corridor for wildlife habitat, an essential factor in securing the grant. The board expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts that led to the acquisition of the land and approved the signing of the conservation restriction unanimously.

The board also addressed employee compensation policies at the water treatment plant, particularly regarding weekend coverage and overtime calculations. Concerns were raised about the policy allowing employees to accrue overtime pay even when not physically working the hours. The board discussed the need to carefully craft the policy to avoid unintended consequences while ensuring fair compensation. The conversation revealed differing opinions on structuring pay practices, with an understanding that the policy needed further refinement.

Additionally, the board discussed preparations for the town’s 250th anniversary, with events planned to engage the community. A veterans benefits fair and a concert at Glendale Ridge Vineyard were among the highlighted activities, with efforts underway to promote these events and sell merchandise related to the anniversary.

Lastly, the board noted progress on ADA compliance efforts and the need to revisit the broadband committee charge. Discussions on union negotiations and capital transfer requests were scheduled for future meetings.