First Select Board meeting

I attended my first meetings as a Selectman yesterday. Agenda here.

At a workshop session, the Director of Budget and Finance passed out a draft budget for FY09 that reflected the override amounts passed during the April 1 election. I am still reviewing the numbers. For those who have been following closely, the revision 7 budget is the one that we looked at. There have been a couple revisions after 7 but this one was closest to the override result and was the one passed out.

The Select Board also discussed what to do about capital improvements since that question failed in the election. Of particular concern is the library roof. Also needed are new police cruisers and cars for building inspectors. Since some past debts are nearing the end of our payment, there may be some opportunity to borrow and get these items done within the budget.
Another item discussed was the hiring of a labor negotiator for upcoming union contracts. The Board decided to proceed with further interviews and will schedule perspective firms or individuals to meet with the Board soon.

The public meeting went quickly. Joe Michaud was nominated and unanimously approved as chairman. Bob Carney will continue as vice chair. Two residential wind turbines were approved in the Select Board's capacity as a special permitting authority for those devices. There were no really substantive issues before the Board and we concluded our business. A request for No Parking signs on Andersen Way was tabled until the Board reviews a plan for the area in question.

I have been contacted by several citizens who have asked if we can get the community together and help to clean, paint and otherwise improve the appearance at some of our schools. While I have yet to broach this with the superintendent and school committee, I think it is an excellent idea and one which builds our sense of community while helping provide a better environment for the children. I have some work to do before this comes to fruition but will stay engaged in the effort going forward.