Chief Benjamin, along with Adam Brome from the Bown Police Department and firefighter Matt Manheim, presented information about Ranger, a four-year-old German Shepherd trained for search and rescue missions. Ranger is nationally certified and undergoes biannual testing in both urban and wilderness terrains, positioning him as a valuable asset for locating missing persons. Matt Manheim holds a $500,000 liability policy through Evolution Insurance Brokers, covering all costs related to Ranger’s care and liability.

The board explored the dynamics between privately owned dogs like Ranger and those owned by municipalities, clarifying that the current setup is standard due to Matt’s ownership of Ranger. This distinction exempts the town from liability, which typically applies to department-owned dogs. Matt elaborated on Ranger’s rigorous training regimen, which includes exposure to diverse environments to keep his skills sharp. Notably, Ranger had been summoned for a missing juvenile case, though the child was found before their arrival. The board expressed appreciation for the extensive training and commitment involved, emphasizing the community’s enhanced safety and response capabilities.

The potential for Ranger to assist other towns through mutual aid was affirmed, with Matt intending to make Ranger a dispatchable asset. Chief Benjamin underscored the significant time and effort invested in developing Ranger’s capabilities, driven by a desire to improve public service within the fire department.

The board’s discussion then shifted to the Plum Tree Road property donation, which was deferred to the next meeting on August 26 to gather more information from the Conservation Commission and Natural Heritage. This procedural delay aimed to ensure all necessary hearing requirements were met.

Attention turned to the upcoming state primary on September 3, 2024, with the board signing the warrant and approving the slate of election officers for the term starting on September 1, 2024. A board member acknowledged his mother was among the candidates but asserted no conflict of interest in his vote. The motion passed unanimously.

The board also deliberated on the appointment of an Administrative Assistant to the Select Board. After conducting interviews, Melinda Williams was recommended for the role, with a title adjustment to reflect her work with both the Select Board and the Town Administrator. The position requires 30 hours per week at a pay rate of $29 an hour, including benefits. The board unanimously approved this appointment, highlighting Melinda’s qualifications and the absence of conflicts of interest with her other position on the Board of Health.

Another topic was the Chapter 90 reimbursement application, which required ratification of Nathaniel’s action in signing necessary paperwork due to a critical deadline. The board unanimously approved this motion, acknowledging the importance of meeting deadlines for financial reimbursements.

The appointment of Nicole Pagan as the Board of Health Clerk was also addressed. This role adds 5 hours to her existing position as the Assessor’s assistant, with a pay rate of $24 an hour. The board approved her appointment without objections.

Old business included an update on the Town Administrator search, with a draft candidate profile and challenge statement reviewed by the board. The lack of questions suggested a general consensus on the matter, enabling the process to move forward smoothly.

The board responded to an ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) request from the police department for premium pay. Due to limited remaining funds of approximately $492.56, the Town Administrator recommended against fulfilling the request. The board acknowledged the financial constraints and unanimously voted to deny the request, while recognizing the contributions of all employees during the pandemic.

Updates from board members included upcoming meetings and events, such as the EDM Studio meeting for the senior Senate committee and a Village Center committee meeting. Additionally, the swearing-in of five new paramedics in South Deerfield was noted as a positive development for the community.

The Town Administrator provided updates on the Clark and Green contract for the Graves Library and an annual campout event involving canoeing from Turners to Northampton. Public comments highlighted the need for technical assistance with an upcoming hybrid meeting.