The budget discussion revealed a surplus of $2,658 against offset revenues of $2,493,362, with the board thoroughly examining expenses related to state assessments, charter school tuition, and school choice tuition. The debate revolved around whether these expenses were being double-counted and the implications on the town’s finances. Attention was given to the potential of restoring cuts to department budgets, particularly in light of wage adjustments, and the necessity of attracting new employees to the highway department.

Deliberations continued over various budget lines, including consultant fees for assessors, conservation wages, and technology expenses. The board emphasized the importance of balancing cuts against service levels and considered setting aside funds for unexpected expenditures. Additionally, they discussed the possibility of reallocating funds to address service contract costs in the future.

A transfer to the Enterprise fund of $31,000 was debated, with concerns raised over whether the fund would run at a deficit. It was agreed that monitoring fees of approximately $32,000 would be moved to the general fund, and a transfer of $31,920 from the general fund to the transfer station was discussed. The board committed to ensuring that budget numbers and text reconcile clearly.

The board also reviewed the Novis contract budget, approving a $4,900 adjustment to maintain the same service level, and rectified a miscalculation in the Council on Aging director’s salary, leading to a revised budget of $52,299. An increase in expenses and the veterans agent salary was proposed, with considerations for additional work hours each week. The library budget, particularly the allocation for books and materials, was discussed to meet state funding requirements.

Communication with residents was a highlighted concern, particularly the lack of activity on the town website and the reliance on social media. The board took note of this feedback and discussed improvements for the town’s website, including maintaining access to past events and streamlining information.

In terms of infrastructure, the Select Board engaged in discussions regarding the town’s connectivity. The Technology Committee presented quotes for fiber optic internet, and the board discussed the need to review the town warrant to improve Wi-Fi in the town hall. This aligns with broader infrastructural concerns, including the review of bylaws for scenic roadways and historic districts, which the Planning Board expressed the need to address.

The Historical Society’s upcoming events were acknowledged, including a program meeting about World War II Victory Gardens and kitchens, and the reopening of the Clark Chapman house for school tours.

Various committees and departments, including the Finance Committee, PPP, and Open Space Committee, provided updates on their activities. The Conservation Commission reported on ongoing projects, and the Board of Assessors raised questions about the new Vadar system’s capabilities for tracking land use issues.

The meeting also touched upon the upcoming town meeting, with discussions on various articles including estate, general bylaws, and zoning. The process for signing off on the warrant was debated, with the board deciding to convene on the 29th to vote on the warrant articles.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the ARPA financial quarterly reports, with concerns over incomplete and inaccurate reporting. The importance of detailed and accurate quarterly reports was underscored, with a need to rectify discrepancies before further discussions.