The board approved a new compensation scale for fire and EMS personnel, a move spearheaded by the Fire Chief, aimed at simplifying the existing pay structure, which was characterized as confusing and inconsistent. The new system, which received unanimous approval, includes five clear lines for various roles such as paramedic, paramedic firefighter, EMT with firefighter, and a straight firefighter designation. The Chief explained that the changes were designed to standardize pay across the department, addressing discrepancies that arose from the predominantly part-time nature of the staff. He emphasized that years of service in other departments would be recognized.

A detailed comparison with local departments like Eastampton and Northampton was conducted. The board was assured that the new scale would not result in salary reductions for current employees, maintaining their existing pay until the new scale matched their level. The proposed pay scale includes a retroactive effective date from the first full pay period of 2025, with the Chief confident that it would not necessitate an increase in payroll expenses for the next fiscal year.

Attention then shifted to planning a special town meeting, initially considered for March 4 but later suggested for March 22 to allow additional preparation time. This meeting’s timing is crucial, as it coincides with expected cost estimates for the public safety complex. The board discussed the feasibility of authorizing a budget not to exceed a certain percentage of the anticipated project cost. Ultimately, March 22 at 10 a.m. was settled as the meeting date, recognizing the importance of sufficient time to engage with voters and gather necessary information.

The meeting also addressed other matters of administrative and community interest. The Town Administrator reported on potential construction on the Palmer Meadow Road bridge, which may require detours due to sewage repairs. A public input session on land use planning was rescheduled to February 27, intending to involve the community in discussions on future developments. Updates on the budget process were provided, with a new budget web page established for fiscal year 2026, featuring draft departmental budget requests. The board was cautioned that these documents remained in draft form and may contain errors.

Additionally, the board explored various grant applications, including those for a pedestrian bridge at Manh Meadows and a greenway design. The grants committee is pursuing funding opportunities, such as the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) grant. During discussions on bylaw amendments, proposed changes to the swimming pool safety bylaw were introduced, aligning with current safety codes, and a public buildings bylaw amendment was framed, modeled after local library policies.