34:24A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing the police department’s staffing issues. Despite the approval of additional officer positions in previous budgets, the committee noted ongoing difficulties in filling these roles. The department has become a “revolving door” due to factors such as injuries and a competitive job market. The need for two new patrol officers was highlighted, along with associated training fees. It was clarified that the budget request aimed to fill existing vacancies rather than create new positions. The committee expressed concern over the personnel retention challenge and the financial implications of training officers who subsequently leave.

In response to these challenges, a proposal was discussed to implement a repayment system for training costs. The idea, which garnered support from the committee, involved a pro-rated repayment plan where officers would reimburse the town for training expenses if they left the department within a specified timeframe. This measure aims to mitigate the financial burden on the town and encourage retention of trained officers.

Additionally, the police department’s equipment needs were brought to the forefront. The committee reviewed a request for new lockers and furnishings in the dog kennels’ locker room, as the current furniture is 25 years old. A line item for necessary technology upgrades, including computers, was noted, with an estimated cost of $67,000.

The police department also faces vehicle-related concerns. A pickup truck with a failed engine, despite having only 35,000 miles, was discussed. The committee pondered the lack of a recall for the vehicle, which is now out of warranty. There was deliberation on replacing the truck with a larger vehicle suitable for towing heavier equipment. Furthermore, a move towards hybrid vehicles was considered, with the understanding that statewide mandates would soon necessitate this transition. The committee acknowledged the increased cost of hybrid vehicles, approximately $7,000 more per vehicle, and debated the availability challenges amid these mandates.

17:13The committee’s conversation about copiers highlighted inefficiencies in the town’s current system. The recurring need for emergency copier purchases prompted a suggestion to contract a single company to service all town copiers. This approach, inspired by Phoenix Insurance’s model of paying per copy, could streamline operations and reduce costs.

0:03The meeting also included discussions on the upcoming special town meeting, prompted by issues such as a real estate deal involving the Historical Society. The committee emphasized the importance of addressing all matters during this session to avoid future delays.

17:13As the committee turned its focus to the 2024 annual budget, members acknowledged the onset of budget season. The select board’s budget was outlined at approximately $418,21, and the finance committee’s budget at $8,928. A motion to approve the budget passed unanimously. The committee considered potential budget cuts, including a 5% reduction, but expressed concern over impacting essential services. The stabilization account, established during the merger of school systems, was discussed as a potential resource, though some members were cautious about depleting it.

Long-term planning and budget forecasting were also on the agenda. The committee stressed the need to balance the focus between current budget needs and future capital requirements, such as new fire trucks and other major purchases. The importance of documenting these needs in the annual town report was highlighted, with a motion to approve the report passing unanimously.