During the meeting, the board discussed the implications of hiring a consultant, including the potential overlap of responsibilities with the board of assessors. The option of combining the assistant assessor role with other town duties was debated, although the practicality of such a combination remains in question. The board members also contemplated whether the new employee should assist in property inspections, despite their lack of experience in real estate appraising. The debate extended to the scheduling of inspections, with differing opinions on whether to conduct them during the day or in the evenings and whether the new employee should participate.

The board’s discussion also covered the authority and responsibility for exemptions, motor vehicle abatements, and property evaluations. There was a debate over the frequency and timing of the new employee’s office hours, considering options such as one full day or two half days per week.

The members of the board also deliberated on the scheduling of upcoming meetings, particularly in May and June. Some members raised concerns about not having enough time to prepare for May meetings, while others suggested postponing them until June. The possibility of hiring new personnel to assist with assessments during these months was discussed, as well as the process for soliciting bids from companies for this work.

Additionally, the board considered attending a meeting at Tasos on May 2nd, discussing the logistics of invoicing the town for any associated costs. The meeting concluded with an agreement to pursue the consultant route, recognizing the need for further discussion on the specific scope of responsibilities for the consultant.