The deteriorating condition of Southwick’s roads was a primary focus, with committee members discussing the possibility of a large-scale bonding project. The state of the roads has raised concerns about the town’s appeal to potential newcomers and its overall infrastructure health. The suggestion of bonding aims to provide a comprehensive solution to the current piecemeal approach to road maintenance and improvements.

In the realm of fiscal planning and asset management, the committee considered establishing specialized trusts using funds previously intended for road maintenance. These trusts would address specific needs such as ambulance services and cemetery maintenance. This strategy emerged from discussions about the wider scope of financial management, including the use of cemetery trust funds and the approval process for capital items.

Further discussions encompassed the allocation of funds for various town projects and departments. The debate covered a breadth of items, including the purchase of a cemetery tractor, a lawn mower, and police cruisers. There was also talk about the need for a new telephone system for the library, supported by a shared service grant application, and the purchase of a shed for Wally Park to support events and concerts. The cost of the shed prompted a debate on whether the expense should be shared by community organizations.

Regarding technology and infrastructure, the committee discussed the Channel 15 restructure, requiring additional funds, and the necessity of investing in computer equipment infrastructure. A significant increase in funding was debated for grinder pump maintenance and hydrant replacement, as some members questioned the need for additional funds.

The meeting also touched on the potential purchase of a new roll-off truck for the Department of Public Works, with quotes exceeding $300,000. Additionally, there was a proposal to reduce the police department’s budget by $10,000, specifically impacting salaries and reserve training.

The committee scrutinized the allocation of funds for engineering and design work, particularly for relocating staff within the town hall. After debate, a compromise figure of $20,000 was agreed upon, with the possibility of transferring any excess to a special account for future use by July 1. Members also examined the budget requests for various departments, including the planning board, council on aging, and the fire department, with a focus on clarifying budget allocations and ensuring effective use of funds. A proposal was made to redistribute savings from the electric to the fuel account for the library due to potential savings in electricity costs.

Budget items for the Water Division also came under review. The committee discussed the backflow inspection cost and the water meter AMI system’s increased costs, reflecting concern for the taxpayer impact. They also reviewed expenditures for FY 23 and FY 24, questioning the timing and nature of these expenses. Stock supplies and contracted equipment costs were analyzed, as were the funding increases for these categories.

To conclude the session, the committee voted to approve the FY 2025 budget request as discussed, with a plan to revisit the numbers in the next meeting to identify any potential adjustments or discrepancies.