Okay, it being 6 six o'clock, I'll call to order this uh meeting of the Cher Select Board for May 4th, 2026. If you'll join me in the pledge of >> allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God,
indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> Thank you. And I just want to um uh notify people watching and people in the audience that this um meeting is being uh televised and recorded by Chancellor Tele media um and for later rebroadcast.
And if anyone else here is uh uh recording the meeting, if you would let me know. Okay. Apparently not. Okay. We'll go with public service announcements. Jeff. There will be a joint meeting of the select board and the housing authority to fill the vacancy of the housing
authority board. Leave that there. >> Up some more. >> Excuse me. >> Do you want me to blow it up? There you go. >> A little bit. Yeah. Thank you. In accordance with the provision of Massachusetts General Law, chapter 121B,
section 5 and chapter 41, section 11, the select board in the Chelsea Housing Authority will hold a joint meeting on Monday, Monday, May 18th, 2026 at 6 p.m. in room 204. This room, Chen Town Offices, 50 Bucker Road, Chel Master
Phil member member vacancy on the Chid Housing Authority Board. The person so appointed shall shall serve as a member of the Chumswood Housing Board until April 6,
2027 annual town election. Anyone interested in being appointed to fill said vacancy should send a written letter of interest or a committee application to the select board or appear at the May May 18th joint meeting.
Um if you want to read the proclamation and then Trisha will accept it. >> Okay. Well, town of council proclamation in celebration of municipal clerk's week May 3rd through 9th 2026. Whereas the town clerk town clerk's
office serves as a professional link between the residents and the local governing bodies and agency of government at other levels and plays a vital role in the public interaction with local government. And whereas the
town clerk's office has pledged to be ever mindful of their neutrality and impartiality rendering equal service to all. And whereas the position of town clerk, a time-honored vital part of local government, exists throughout the world
and is the oldest among public servants. And whereas the town clerk staff in the town of Charleston continually strive to improve the administration of the affairs of the town clerk's office through participation in education programs,
seminars, workshops, and annual meetings of their state, regional, country, and international professional organization. And whereas most appropriate that we recognize the accomplishment of the town clerk's office and whereas the week of
May 3rd through 9th 2026 marks an observance of the municipal clerk's week which is sponsored by the inter international institute of m municipal clerks. Now therefore, we the select board of the town of Councilman do
further recognize the week of May 3rd through May 9th, 2026 as professional clerk's week and further extend appreciation to our town clerk Patricia Zurich and her staff and f and
staff for their vital services they perform and their exemplary dedication to the town of Johnson. presented this fourth day of May, 2026. >> And I believe we have members of the of the clerk's office here to accept the uh the proclamation.
>> Can I say a few words first? >> Absolutely. Thank you. >> I want to thank you all very much for this recognition and I'm here to accept a proclamation honoring municipal clerk's week on behalf of the remarkable staff that we have in the front because
they serve as the front of every facet of what we do um in the town clerk's office. So my team consists of our deputy clerk Maria Companion who is incredibly kind, patient, and meticulously detail oriented. our
assistant town clerk, Pamela Connors, who's sharp, creative, and enthusiastic, and our departmental support coordinator, dependable, efficient, and just plain fun to be around, Ally Hayden. I want to thank you for honoring their efforts. Together, we're proud to
serve the residents of Chumsford through our mission of trust, integrity, and excellence. And I appreciate all of you very much for recognizing their efforts. Thank you. >> Thank you, Jeff. Thanks Jeff. Appreciate it very much. >> Great job. >> All right. Thank you very much.
>> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> And if I'll just say something really quick. Um good evening. No, stay up here. Stay up here. [laughter] Thank you for having us all here tonight. As she said, I'm Ally Hayden, the department mental support coordinator. Thank you for having us. Um
as you stated, this is municipal clerk's week and a time to recognize the vital role to help keep cities and towns across the state running efficiently. And of course, where would we be without our wonderful town clerk, Patricia Durus, >> a woman who certainly does not need an
introduction. While I personally have only had a brief privilege of being part of her team, I think I speak for all of us when I say the impact she has had on us has been lasting and lifelong. Trisha has always placed a strong emphasis in efficiency, professionalism,
and most importantly, lifting those around her up. The standards she sets are high and they allow our office to operate with confidence, consist, consistency, and purpose. The role of town clerk often works behind the
scenes, but the importance of Trisha's work cannot be overstated. She is a trusted resource for the town of Chumsford and has accumulated many notable achievements throughout her career. There is no exaggeration in saying the success and reputation of this office are a direct reflection of
Trisha's leadership and who she is as a person. Her commitment and dedic dedication to our office and the town are evident even on the busiest of days. Trisha, thank you for your leadership and for the example you set for us every day. Your work does not go unnoticed and
your impact reaches far beyond the walls of the town hall. The three of us could only be so lucky to be half of the woman you are. So tonight, it feels especially fitting to take a moment to recognize not just the position, but the person who embodies it and lives it every day.
And thank you again. And I'd ask everyone to please uh recognize and thank Town Clerk Patricia Ders. [applause] Thank you. >> [laughter] >> Thank you.
>> Okay. So, Saturday, May 9th from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. is the town annual shred day, which will take place at public works office at 9 Alpha Road in Chelford. Please see the acceptable materials and
the nonacceptable materials. Am I reading this whole letter? >> You could just note note the dates on it. That's fine. >> Okay. Um May 15th shall be recognized as the National Police Officer Memorial Day,
the calendar week which will fall on National Police Week, which is May 15th. Then we will be holding a ceremony on Tuesday, May 12th at Forefather Cemetery, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. which a
ceremonial wreath will be laid at the grave site of Constable Adams and those officers who've made the ultimate sacrifice. Fire station groundbreaking ceremony. The date has been changed to Monday, May 18th at 11:00 a.m. at the West Fire
Station at 272 Old Westford Road. The annual Memorial Day observance will be Monday, May 25th in North Charleston. The American Legion Post 313 will be the host veterans organization this year. The parade route will start promptly at
10:00 a.m. from the American Legion Post 313 located at 990 Graten Road, North Shelton. We will proceed down Graten Road to Vital Square. If you'd like to be in the parade, please assemble by 9:30 at the American Legion Post Post
313 parking lot. Particip participants in the parade can be dropped off at the American Legion Post parking lot. There'll be plenty of parking across the street at the Chomps Senior Center. Everyone is welcome. There'll be a program following immediately
after the parade at Final Square. After the program, everyone is invited to North Town Hall across the street for ice cream and cake. If you have any questions about the parade, please call the veterans office at 978-250-5238.
Thank you. The DPW food drive for the Chumps Pantry will be held on Friday, May 29th from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at uh Market Basket on Chompson Street is the
collection day on Friday the 29th. An additional drop off location at the public works office at 9 Alpha Road on Monday, May 18th through Friday, May 29th. Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 7:00 to 4:00, Tuesday from 7 to 6:00 p.m. Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00
noon. We look forward to working with you and hope you will support the ch food rental printer. How should the LRTA make our bus routes better? We're changing the LRTA routes in LOL area. We want your input. Take a
short survey or join a popup event at the Kennedy Center at LOL Station, April 8th, 6:00 to 8:00 a.m. 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. The North Middle Sex Council of Governments, NEMOB,
>> is have not sure what we're doing here. >> Just the public comment period on the transportation improvement plan. We're having a public comment period on the transportation improvement. The date is Wednesday, May 6, 2026 from 12 to 1.
There is also a Zoom link or Thursday, May 7th from 7 to 8:00 p.m. at the um NEMOB office at Suffach Street in LM. COG will have a public comment period
for the pedestrial pedestrian and bicycle plan. A collaborative effort to improve the walking and biking infrastructure across the region region. Two virtual hearings will be held as part of a public comment period. All are
welcome to attend. Wednesday, May 6th from 12 to 1 or Thursday, May 7th from 7 to 8:00 p.m. at 672 Suffach Street, sweet 11, sweet 100 lass.
Chelsea Market on the Comm is returning the artisans and far farmers market announcing our two 2026 season every Saturday from June 6th to October 10 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. >> Hey, thank you. Uh we're now to the part
of our agenda where we accept public input. If there's anybody here that would uh like to address the board, just a note that you have a a threem minute time limit. Um and also note that um if you bring up a topic that is not on our agenda, we will not be able to address it in any way, but you are free to make
whatever comment you want. So, and if you'd identify yourself before you speak. Thank you. >> Good evening, Madam Chair, members of the board. My name is David Hull. I live on Erland Road in Chumsard. I'm also the vice president of Chumsed Firefighters Local 1839. On April 7th, 2026, chumpstered
firefighter Nick Spinelli faced a lifealtering moment when he suffered a 40-foot fall at the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy. This tragic incident left Nick with severe life-threatening injuries, including a lacerated spleen and kidney, significant dislocations and fractures in both
wrists, a traumatic brain injury, and an orbital bone fracture. These injuries required multiple surgeries with more planned as he continues his recovery journey. [clears throat] Despite these challenges, Nick's determination has shown through. Known for his pride in
serving his hometown, he wears a chumped fire shirt every day as a symbol of his commitment. Remarkably, just last week, Nick took his first steps independently. A true testament to his strength and his spirit. While his road to recovery is long and arduous, he remains focused on
returning to the job he loves, being a firefighter in Chumsert. Nick's brothers and sisters of Chumps Fire Local 1839 and the professional firefighters of Massachusetts stand behind Nick as he navigates through this difficult journey.
Though the future remains uncertain, one thing is clear. Nick is dedicated to protecting and serving the residents of Chumsard. And that's a calling he does not take lightly. Nick's remarkable resilience serves as an inspiration to all of us as he continues to heal. The
support from family, friends, and the community will undoubtedly play a vital role in his recovery. We ask that you, the board, the town, and the department support Nick in his time of need as he supports the town every day he puts his
uniform on. Thank you. Good evening. Uh my name is Greg Signini, employee [clears throat] of the Chster Fire Department. I'm also the secretary treasurer of Chster Firefighters Local 1839. I'd like to explain the relationship between the town of Chamster and the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy. For
those who aren't aware, the MFA is solely funded through an assessment on Commonwealth insurance companies that provide policies to the Commonwealth residents such as auto and home insurance. This funding allows cities and towns to send their recruits and officers to
train at the MFA at no cost. The town of Chstred is one of those communities that takes advantage of the MFA and accordingly on average sends three recruits to train at the MFA each year as an extension of its training division.
This intensive 10-week program at the MFA involves classroom instruction, physical fitness training, firefighter skill training, and live firefighter practice. The MFA relies on firefighter uh
firefighters employed by fire departments across the Commonwealth to help run this program and others. The town of Chelmsford and its residents benefit greatly from this free service from the state and MFA as firefighters
return with a higher level of skill which improves the fire service in the town of Chmsford, which saves lives and also impacts the town's financial health and ability to get better insurance and bond rates for itself and for residents. The town of Chsford conditions
firefighter uh town of Chsford's conditions firefighters employment on their attendance at the graduation from from a fire academy. If the MFA were no longer in existence, the town of Chsford's taxpayers alone would have to absorb this cost as as is currently the case in several communities including
Boston, Brooklyn, Worcester, and Quinzy. This cost is far from small. It is for this reason that is an incumbent on the cities and towns like Chumsford to begin looking beyond this one situation and show a willingness to
work with the state and the MFA to address situations like the one involving Chsford firefighter Nick Spanelli. If this does not happen, the continuation of the MFA will be put at great risk, which is not in the interest of anyone. Thank you.
>> Thank you. >> [clears throat] >> Good evening, Madam Chair, members of the board. Rob Albon, one Driftwood Drive in Chamsford. I'm also the president of the Chumpsford Firefighters, IIAFF Local 1839. Good evening. I stand before you today to express our concern regarding the
lack of communication from town leadership regarding firefighter Nick Spanelli. To date, the members of the Chamster Fire Department have not received any updates from the fire chief about Nick's status. There has been no address to the department and no guidance on how we can support him during his recovery. Only an email that
was forwarded from the state fire marshal which seemed to be a coordinated effort to shift blame and responsibility onto the Massachusetts Fire Academy. On April 23rd, the fire chief did send an email inviting us to celebrate town manager Cohen's retirement party on May 20th. This has only added to our
frustration. On April 21st, the Chumps firefighters local 1839 reached out to town manager Paul Cohen and Town Labor Council Brian Maer of KP Law seeking remedies to assist Nick's situation. In our email, we expressed our readiness to
uh collaborate with the town to navigate the broader issues highlighted by this incident. Quote, "This support will also offer time for the state legislature to address the broader concerns for all municipalities and firefighters highlighted by this incident." After a week without a response, we followed up
with Mr. Maser who informed us on April 28th that the quote the board will be meeting in executive session to discuss the union's proposal. However, the agenda posted on April 30th did not include any mention of this. To say we are disappointed would be an understatement. The lack of urgency is
concerning and this seems to reflect a broader pattern of issues related to Mr. Ma's conduct and professionalism during his tenure as labor counsel. Faced with the ongoing inaction, we felt it necessary to present our uh request directly to the Chsford Select Board on
May 1st. In response, Mr. Maser sent an email to the Union Labor Council accusing us of quote bullying the town in Select Board. This is far from the truth. We are simply seeking a constructive dialogue for a solution. As Mr. Ma's inaction and ineptitude have
unnecessarily prolonged this important conversation, Mr. Mr. Maer further stated, quote, "Respond if you wish, as I know you won't be able to help yourself, but the situation is as it stands today, and no amount of posturing and foot stomping on your part will change that." Such comments raise
serious questions about the professionalism and integrity we expect from town labor council. As the town considers who should represent it in these crucial matters, we urge to we urge you to reflect on the character and professionalism displayed by Mr. Maser. Most importantly, we asked the select
board to consider our proposal to assist firefighter Nick Spanelli during his prolonged recovery or at a minimum allowed the discussion to be had. Chumsford firefighters are willing to bear some of the burden in order to help not only the town of Chelmsford, but
most importantly our brother Nick Spanelli. We appreciate the select board's attention to this matter and sincerely hope to foster a collaborative effort moving forward to support one of our own, a chumpstered firefighter and his name is Nick Spanelli. Thank you.
>> Hi, my name is Elena Spanali 11 Golden Coro Chumsford. I'm the mother of the injured firefighter Nick Spanali. At this time, I want to thank the Chsford Fire Union, the firefighters union for all their undoubtedly support that they have given us. The first two weeks, they
were at the hospital round the clock. No other town can say that. No other department in the city could say that. Our hope is that the town and the state steps up and does the right thing for Nick. He has been a Chumsford resident since he's been born. Cub Scouts, Boy
Scouts, every sport in this town he's been a part of. His goal was to be a Chumsford firefighter to support the people of Chsford. Our hope is you guys will turn around and do the right thing and support him. Thank you. [applause]
>> Anyone else? >> Okay. Good evening, Madam Chair, members of the board. Mr. Manager, I understand it's the board's policy not to respond to the public comment input session. However, given the seriousness of some of the comments being made this evening, I felt it was important to provide some
clarification. But first, I want to recognize and commend the union members for their unwavering support for firefighter Nick Spanelli. Following this tragic April 7th in incident at the Mass Fire Academy, their response was immediate and deeply compassionate. Union members were Nick's bedside as soon as he arrived at the hospital and
they quickly organized a continuous presence to support both him and his family. They have coordinated several successful fundraisers including today's well-attended bud drive and most importantly they have provided steady comfort and reassurance to Nick's loved ones during an unimaginably difficult
time. Their commitment has been extraordinary and I'm sincerely grateful for everything they have done and continue to do. That said, I do need to address some of these statements that were made regarding communication and information sharing. I have communicated directly with the union president. We
have con communicated, we've been in discussion with the state. Um, but we were asked by the state to allow them time to go through the process. Um, as far as the assertion that the union's April 9th email proposal was sent to the town manager and somehow was not sent to
you, obviously you, the select board members, are aware that you received the proposal. I know that because I saw the email chain and that you'll take it up at your next meeting on Monday, May 18th. But members of the public watching tonight may not know that and I think it's important that the record be clear.
Since the incident on April 7th, the town manager, human resource director, and uh myself been in daily communication regarding Nick's progress and the steps needed to try to address the issues regarding his compensation and his continuous service time. We've
been working continuously and collaboratively to identify a viable path forward. Our collective outreach efforts have been ongoing. We've been in regular communication with the Mass Municipal Association, the Department of Fire Services, the Secretary of Public Safety and Security,
the Massachusetts Fire Chiefs, our state legislative delegation, and other relevant partners. Again, we recused as of Friday of not having those communications. And I can show through either email or my phone that I have been in communication as well as the
manager. Like the union, the town has been working tirelessly to find an effective and sustainable solution. Our shared goal is to ensure that Nick and his family can concentrate on his care and healing without the added burden of uncertainty about his compensation or
his continuous service time. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to kind of clarify these matters. Thank you. >> Anyone else? Okay, thank you very much. Um, on to committee vacancies. >> Okay, committee vacancies. As of today's
date, we have one unexpired term for the Age Friendly Implementation Committee, one unexpired term for the CCA town hall advisory committee, one unexpired term for the clean energy and sustainability committee,
five [snorts] openings for the Commission on Disabilities, and one unexpired term for Council on Aging. We also have one unexpired term for the cultural council and one unexpired term for the diversity,
equity, and inclusion committee and four unexpired terms for the holiday decorating. One unexpired term for the military community covenant task force. And as I say every meeting, the parade committee, we need people, and this is the time we're we're two months from
today. We need people to step up right now and get involved. And we would appreciate that. If you're interested in serving on a town board or a committee, please complete the online application available on the town website. For more information, contact the town manager's
office at 978-250-5202 or TM office at chstston ma.gov. >> Okay. Thank you. Next up is the appointment of a new police chief in the town of Chster. >> Yeah. Thank you, Madam Chair, members of the board, and members in attendance
this evening or watching. I'm pleased to present to you for confirmation my appointment of of Gary Hanigan to serve as the town's next um chief of police. Um, as you many are aware, Gary is our currently our deputy uh police chief and
has served admirably for the community for the past 27 and a half years. As you can tell on his detailed resume, he's very qualified and accomplished. Um but um you know the um process um sort of to
bring people up to date how this works out is um the um when the position [clears throat] became known that Chief Spence was retiring um I made the decision to um open up the process to internal candidates in the police department. The
position is governed um because it's non-Ivil service by chapter 2 366 of the acts of 1993. Uh and what that requires is is that the um that the um town manager um has to u provide a an
employment contract for the for the police chief. Um and then it has to conduct a search of candidates inside the police department um in before basically advancing to any other efforts. Um and I have fully complied with the provisions of that statute. Um
basically how this was conducted is is with the assistance of of outgoing um Chief Colin Spence, we notified the uh individuals who were eligible under the accordance of the statute. Um we conducted a professional independent assessment center. Um that was followed
by interviews uh and then negotiations and then the confirmation of appointment. Um, I'm pleased to inform you as I did in my memo when when I uh uh made the decision uh and and reached agreement with with uh with Gary that um
that g that that Gary top the assessment center um clearly has demonstrated his his capability um as serving as deputy chief. And so I present to you for confirmation this evening uh in accordance with uh again
our charter, our state statute uh obviously the appointment, the employment agreement and so forth. So uh I'm I'm really excited for Gary uh and for the department uh and look forward to your uh confirmation this evening. Thank you.
>> I'll make a motion that we support the town manager's confirmation of Gary Hanigan as our new chief. >> Second the motion. Okay, we have a motion and a second. Any discussion? Okay, all in favor? I >> uh Gary, if you'd like to make take a
make a say a few words. >> I didn't think there was that many good things to say about me. [laughter] >> Um, good evening members of the select board, uh, manager Paul Cohen, and members of the chumps community. This is an exciting time for me, both professionally and personally, as well
as for my family who's with me tonight. It's a privilege and honor and I'm truly humbled to stand before you this evening as you consider my appointment as the next police chief of the town. I'd like to begin by thanking town manager Cohen for his confidence in recommending me
for this role as well as the board for placing trust and confidence in my leadership. Over the past three years, Chief Spence and I have navigated numerous challenges, including circumstances neither one of us probably could have ever anticipated. through through professionalism,
empathy, and integrity remain steadfast and continue to move forward. Chief, I sincerely wish you all the best in your retirement, and thank you for your many years of dedicated service and commitment to the Trump Police Department. I also appreciate the mentorship, professionalism, and patience you demonstrate throughout your
tenure, and I wish you continued health and success into your retirement. So, thank you. So, as the town manager said, I come before you today with approximately 28 years of law enforcement experience. All of which been grounded deeply in the commitment of this community. Chs is not
just a place where I've worked. It's a community, [clears throat] it's a community where I've raised and lived for 47 years and have had the privilege of raising my daughter. This town has shaped who I am both personally and professionally and my connection to it runs deep. I would also like to
recognize my family. Their unwavering support, patience, and encouragement have made this journey possible. A career in law enforcement requires sacrifice, and I would not be here today without them standing by me every step of the way. So, to my family, thank you.
Don't cry. [laughter] My career has always been deeply rooted in community service. As I said, I've taken great pride in never missing an opportunity to engage with the people we serve. Whether challenging circumstances or everyday interactions, I firmly believe that the strength of a police department is built on the relationships
it fosters within the community. I'm appreciative of this opportunity to serve as your next police chief, and I want to assure not only those in this room, but everyone in Chumsid of my commitment to this department and to the community. My commitment to you is that I take the responsibility that comes with this position. I'm focused on
advancing our police department to the next level while preserving the values that define us. Poling today is much different from when I began my career. While the profession and demands continue to evolve, I rely on the strong foundation laid by those who have come before us. Their
leadership has paved the way, and I'm committed to building upon that legacy by fostering a culture that inspires our personnel, supports professional development, and embraces innovation and accountability. We will continue to pro prioritize our commitment to addressing
traffic concerns, supporting special populations, responding effectively to mental health related calls, enhancing officer training, promoting officer wellness, and meeting the ongoing challenges of recruitment and retention. Equally important, I will continue to
take input from the public. Open communication and collaboration will remain central to how we lead this department into the future. Together we will ensure that Chumps remains a safe, welcoming and resilient community, but most importantly a police department that the community can be proud of. We
are a young department and with that comes both challenges and opportunities. We will meet those challenges with courage, integrity, and transparency. These principles will guide our decision-making, shape our culture, and strengthen the trust we continue to build within our community. I want to
again thank the select board Tom Andrew Cohen for this opportunity and your confidence in me. It's a responsibility I take seriously and I'm committed to serving the community with professionalism, dedication, and integrity each and every day. Thank you. >> Thank you and congratulations. [applause]
>> I'd like to say one thing, please. I've known Gary over the years through different correspondents on different events and his dedication to this town beyond his job is not matched by any his dedication to police athletic league and the work he did behind the scenes for
that was phenomenal and I mean it just shows you how much he cares about and I appre and I'm excited for you. I truly am my friend. >> Thanks Jeff. Okay, next up we have reports and presentations. So turn it over to James
Gerity. >> Good evening everyone. So great to be back here and as we dive into the report I think I'm just going to start with a little bit of background information first. If we can go to the next slide.
So to quickly catch everybody up um this last spring the select board adopted the strategic plan. Within the strategic plan, there was an element of community engagement and creating a community engagement task force. I led that task force over the summer and presented the recommendations to the select board this
past November. One of the key recommendations was creating a civics academy. This was because reaching out to other communities that had run them. They are incredibly impactful. It's shocking how many positive remarks town officials who run them give. And they
can also be incredibly cost-effective, too. The select board decided to take this recommendation and we started creating the civics academy this past November. And as we started creating the civics academy, we created a couple goals. Wanted to make sure that it remained
aligned with what we were attempting to do. And those goals were to help educate town residents on how the Chryford Municipal Government works to inspire greater involvement whether it's serving on a border committee or even running for office. We wanted to provide residents with knowledge to have
informed conversations. We also wanted to keep the costs low. We didn't want to blow up the budget with like $20,000. And we didn't want to overwhelm town staff by completely derailing their day-to-day routines. Wanted to keep things manageable.
So, we created an 8-week structure program for the Civics Academy. This was going to begin in the winter and January and continue through the end of March. The time we decided to do it on Tuesday evenings from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. This way it coincided a little bit with a typical
workday for the town's operations and it wouldn't require staff having to come back for an additional four or five hours on like a Wednesday or a Thursday. We decided to do a format where there'd be two one-hour instructional blocks with a half hour break in between where we would give the participants some
pizza, salad, cookies, maybe even some water. And the civics academy was open to any Chumswood resident age 16 or older. And we opened our applications on December 1st. And I was hoping that we would get at least eight applicants. We
had decided internally that if we didn't get at least eight applicants, then it likely wouldn't be quite enough people to successfully run the program. So, we would delay it by a year. I was hoping to get at least 10. My fingers crossed that we would get 15 applicants. And midway through December, we had 23
people apply. By the time the civics academy began, we had 17 participants and 16 people finish the class. And those who weren't able to either participate or complete the class, it wasn't because they gave up on the idea or they didn't like it. Rather, it was
because of sudden job changes, schedule changes. I believe somebody moved unexpectedly, so they a little too far away to come participate in the academy. And the attendance at each session was incredibly strong. No more than a couple people ever missed any session at any
given point. And what was really exciting in the civics academy was the types of residents who came and um participated. We had a high school student participate and people of all ages all the way up to some senior residents. Um we also had
people with various backgrounds in local government too. Some were town meeting reps who were seeking to expand their knowledge and others were people who had moved to the community a few years ago but still weren't able to figure out how the town operated or how they could get more involved and they were really
excited to be part of the academy. Then as we started with each class I wanted to make sure that since this was our first time launching civics academy that we gained val that we gained feedback after each session and overall with the academy. So after each Tuesday, typically Wednesday morning, I send all
the participants a simple four questionnaire, um how they would rank the session out of five stars, um something that they enjoyed about it or something that they learned, room for improvement or any other notes. I also asked for um I did a comprehensive end
of academy survey of approximately 15 questions really diving into the effectiveness of the academy. And what was really nice too was in between each sessions, such as during the breaks or afterwards via email or running into people in town, was all the feedback
that the participants willingly gave me um throughout the course of the program. And this led to us being able to say that the civics academy and all the sessions were incredibly wellreceived. Um some departments were able to correct
some misconceptions about what they do or the power influence that they have within the town. Other departments were able to build upon general knowledge such as DPW and some departments that weren't really known to the town such as accounting were able to explain the vital roles that they play in ensuring
that our budget is maintained and that we know where the tax dollars go. And the curriculum also helped to show participants how just complex and interconnected Chumsford's municipal government is and also how many responsibilities different town officials carry with them on a
day-to-day basis. I think some of the participants are still recovering from the amount of responsibilities the clerk's office has. And the positive feedback, if I included screenshots of all the positive feedback, this presentation would probably be a 100 slides long. Um, so I
tried to summarize it briefly here, but people in the participants really really liked the civics academy. Town staff really liked being able to present at the civics academy. Um almost all of the participants said that they have significantly understanding have a
stronger understanding of how local government works and they can have informed conversations with their neighbors. Um they have a greater appreciation for the professionalism, passion and approachability of town staff. Um a couple of the participants jokingly said they aren't afraid to go to the assessor's office to ask about an
abatement. >> [laughter] >> Um, there's an increased trust in the overall decision-making of the town and there's a strong overall satisfaction with how the program was structured and the content that was included. However, we weren't perfect or else it
wouldn't be all that much fun. Um, there was a lot of interest from the participants about some expanded um trying to understand some of the expanded roles of different boards and committees. Um there was also people also wanted to learn more about how town meeting itself operates less about kind
of what town meeting is responsible for more how um it's structured and how people can participate in it. There was also a desire to just learn a little bit more about some of the departments that participated because of the eightweek structure. We weren't fully able to dive into all the nitty-gritty details in some departments and some participants
still had a few questions at the end of it. But what was key is that there is no there was no feedback that said this was a waste of time. I really didn't like this presentation or this wasn't necessary. As I've been saying, people really enjoyed and took away a lot with
the academy. So thinking back to the goals that I laid out when we were thinking of the civics academy, did we meet them? Well, I can say that not just one but actually two participants ran for town meeting for the first time and were elected and participated in town meeting. They asked some questions. They asked some
difficult questions too at town meeting. And one of them even told me the other day that because of the civics academy, she was able to understand the topics that were being discussed at town meeting and she felt confident in the votes that she was making. Another participant pursued a writing campaign for the housing authority and he won a
seat. Participants already in serving in town meeting or different boards and committees reported feeling more confident and more engaged in understanding the overall picture of what the town is trying to do. And several participants have reached out to me since then asking how they can continue to engage or engage with
committees even if there isn't a vacancy on the board. And what I think is probably the most important and inspiring part is that the participants now reported having more informed conversations with their neighbors. The DPW session got delayed from its
original date because of an ice storm. Decided it wouldn't be a good idea to have the participants drive out to the DPW um when it was super icy out. So, we ended up having it after the town election and I had I think nine participants were able to make it. I had about eight conversations with different participants saying how during the town
election when they were discussing who they should vote for or what some of the key issues are or what's coming up at town meeting, they were able to have informed conversations. They became the person in the know, they were able to have those types of conversations with their neighbors and feel confident in the answers. They weren't just guessing or saying what might be popular on any
given day. And when it came to launching the civics academy, we wanted to make sure that we didn't overload or overwhelm town officials. Uh as the participants figured out and as all of you know, there's a lot that goes on in the town offices and we oftentimes don't have
enough hours in the day to do everything that we need to get done. But the civics academy, the way we created it was incredibly manageable. Um the coordinating the academy itself was handled by me and the town manager's office but all the departments created
their own curriculum and their own learning material which on first kind of sounds like it's overwhelming but they only had to do their offices so it was manageable for them as well. And futuremies will be much easier to produce as well because that first baseline of the content has already been
created and moving forward we just need to tweak it slightly based on the feedback that we received. And after talking with the town manager and some of the other departments, we definitely want to pursue this again next winter. We want to make a couple
tweaks to make it even stronger and more meaningful for future participants. Um, we should probably expand it to be 10 to 11 sessions. In the 15 question survey I sent to all the participants at the conclusion of the academy, nearly everybody said it should be 10 to 11 sessions. Some people said it should be
15 sessions, but I think if we do 10 or 11, that'll be the sweet spot. Um, this will allow us to have more time for some departments such as finance and budgeting, the health department, or even accounting. Originally, when I was talking to Darlene, she was a little worried she had half an hour to fill and she was worried that she wouldn't be
able to talk about accounting for 30 minutes. She ended up going for 40 minutes and had to cut her off because the assessors had to talk and the assessors went for half an hour and they were worried they wouldn't be able to go for 10 minutes. So there's definitely a lot of questions and key insights that these offices have that people want to learn about. And by going to 11
sessions, we'll be able to give them the time that they need. We'll also be able to help streamline some other presentations. Some departments handle so much on a day-to-day basis that trying to explain it all in 60 minutes just isn't feasible. And we can also dedicate some more time to understanding what the town charter is, how it
functions within the town, and also talk about town meeting. And this number I think is maybe one of the highlights of this whole presentation is talking to other towns such as Barnstabbull or Danverse. I was anticipating that our cost would be between like $2500 and $3,000.
And at the end of the day, our total cost was $1,95.96. And this included giving all the participants uh dinner at each session. So, real quick, um, I would just like to thank the
select board for greenlighting this, the town manager for his support, all the department heads and staff who created their curriculum, presented it, answered questions from the participants, and also I want to extend a massive thank you to all the participants as well. They helped to make this academy come to
life and as successful as it was. Okay, >> there we have it. >> Thank you. >> Does anybody have a question for James? >> Yes, I have one question. James, did you consider chumps of ginger ale instead of water? [laughter] >> That's a good I'm going to put that down in my notes when I get back to my office.
>> But no, James being modest. I mean, James took this uh initiative and as you can see by his presentation, but for the whole course of this, he took this thing, ran with it, and and really made it the success that it really was. So, James, thank you on behalf of the
community and all the participants. >> Thank you [applause] all. Okay. Um, next on our agenda is um the u discussion of an appointment for an acting town manager. Um as the our town
charter and our policy for uh a town manager appointment both indicate that um if there if we expect that there is not going to be a new town manager in place before the incumbent town manager leaves, we we have the option to appoint
an acting town manager for a period of up to six months. So um we discussed this briefly at our last meeting at which time um we kind of decided that we would ask the three every year uh the town manager has to has to note three um
staff members who are qualified to replace him temporarily um uh that would that would be able to do the job. Um, so I reached out to all three of those those uh staff members that included DPW Director Christine Clancy, Police Chief
Colin Spence, and Finance Director John Souza. They all were appreciative of the opportunity to be considered. Um un uh having said that two of them indicated that just the timing was not right at that right now for them to um to
consider applying for that position or are hoping that we would that we would continue that we would go forward with with those appointments. But all of them did indicate that they would strongly support whoever is chosen for the position. Um and for that I u I'm
grateful for for their uh upcoming support. So that leaves uh finance director um John Souza and so I invited him to come and speak to us for a few minutes about how he sees himself in this position and then we will have a
discussion and potentially take a vote. >> Good evening, Madame Chair, members of the board, town manager Cohen. Pleased to be here tonight. um like to start off just talking about like you know how I see the role of interim town manager and and in my mind it's someone
that provides stability and leadership to guide the town through this transition period between town manager Cohen's retirement and the new town manager's arrival. I'm interested in in this position because I'd like to draw upon my nearly 20 years of experience as finance
director to ensure that town operations function smoothly and that Chumsford continues to move forward and build upon the many accomplishments that occurred under town manager Cohen's tenure. some of the key strengths that I bring to the position. As finance director, I
become familiar with just about every single line in the town's operating budget, and I've led our capital budgeting process from start to finish each year. In early June, I'll be leading the virtual conference with Standard and POS credit analysts, as
I've done for the past 18 years, as they review the town's finances in detail, and then issue a bond rating for our next borrowing in June. I'm proud to say that I have a excellent working relationship with our superintendent of schools and our school finance director.
So, we get to the point, how can I help the town? People usually associate the word summer and vacation together, but the summer of 2026 promises to be far from a vacation. In July, um I'll be working with our town accountant to prepare and submit
all required um end ofear reports to the Mass Department of Revenue uh to provide a smooth close out of of fiscal year 26 so that our free cash can be certified. In August, I'm planning to develop budget instructions and forms so that
department heads can begin planning their 28 budget, fiscal year 28 budget and capital requests in September. I know it seems like we just finished the fiscal year 27 process. August will also be the time when Darlene and I help the new town accountant become acclimated to their
surroundings and our town procedures. My five-year forecast tells us that we'll likely be facing a budget deficit of about 3.7 million for the coming year. And so I'm planning to work with department heads to identify some possible deficit reduction strategies.
These preparations will help give the new town manager a head start in the budget process so they can hit the ground running on day one. Then we come to the point, how will this all work? You know, with the amount of hours and that Paul and I pour into our current positions, I do recognize that serving
as both the town CEO and CFO will not be an easy task, but I'm up for that challenge. In the finance department, I'm fortunate to have a seasoned assistant treasurer. Kim has 19 years of experience with the town. Our assistant collector, Lauren, has 13 years of
experience in the office along with Jen and Cassie, two dedicated customer service employees in the collector's office. The assessor's office has undergone a successful staff rebuild under Reagan's leadership following several retirements, and our technology
network manager are extremely knowledgeable and reliable. In the town manager's office, I plan to draw upon the experience of our support services manager Christina and operations assistant James. So, in closing, I I plan to spend time daily in both
offices. Um, our staff in those offices will help me by handling routine business. And finally, I'd say with assistance from department heads, town staff, and this board's support, I will make this work for the town. So, thank you. Does anyone have any questions for
John before we >> have a further discussion? >> No. >> Okay. Um, any thoughts about John as the acting town manager? >> Um, I'll I'll jump in here. So, I appreciate everything you said, John, and you answered a lot of the questions
that I had. Um, because I do know, uh, living across the street that John's light like Paul's often on late at night. So, I know that they're here working. Um, but he's not only the finance director, but you know, he he's a member of the planning board and the capital planning committee um and and
the managed growth strategy, which which I'm fortunate enough to work with him on. Um, and I, you know, I I've gotten to know John over the years and and I know that this is going to be a heavy lift for him, but I definitely have all the confidence that, um, he'll be able to to fill this and transition um, as
Paul heads off to new adventures and then transition a new person when we find them. So, I appreciate you, John, um, being able to step into this role. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Anyone else? Yeah, I started working with John many years ago, probably longer than I want to admit and I can
say that John has always pres gave himself as professional and respectful to everybody around him and I have full confidence that he's going to be able to hopefully bridge this time
between Paul and the next town manager. It's about it. >> Okay, >> good luck. John, [clears throat] you and I have worked together when I was on FinCom and Selecman before and um I guess I'm a selectman again. Um and you
were you were always great. Uh I give you a lot of credit for our bond rating and for for a lot of the financial success that Paul deserves a lot of credit for, but you as well. and uh I I have every confidence that you'll be able to uh handle this position um with
the skill that you have already shown us before. >> Thank you. >> From from my end, I realize I haven't known you very long, but I've been very impressed right out of the gate. First impression was fantastic. And over the last, you know, three or four months
working and hearing from you, it's clear you know exactly what's going on. You are very clear. you articulate everything you're doing accurately and precisely and so I'm a big advocate of this position for you. >> And John, I I'll just echo what
everybody said. Um, you know, I'm I'm grateful that you've you've chosen to step up and and offered to take on these additional responsibilities, which as you mentioned, it's not going to be easy. There are going to be a lot of long days and and I'm sure late nights going forward. So, with that, I'll take
a motion. >> Okay. I am proud to make a motion to appoint John Soua as acting town manager effective May 26, 2026 for a period of 6 months or until a permanent town manager is hired, whichever occurs first. Mr.
Souza will continue as the town finance director while assuming the duties of acting town manager and he will receive a stipen for those additional duties. >> And I second the motion. >> Okay, we have a motion and a second. Um, all those in favor? Hi I
>> um it was mentioned that um that John will receive a stipen for these additional duties and with the agreement of the other board members. You know I could do those negotiations with him um over the next week or so that that's in place before um May 26th when he will
officially take his uh take that position if that's okay to everybody. And uh we'll make that announcement at our at our next meeting. Um, and in the meantime, I'm sure John is going to be have a lot of time in Paul's office.
>> Absolutely. I'd like to spend a lot of time with Paul. >> Okay. Well, thank you very much and congratulations. >> Thank you very much >> everyone. Thanks a lot. >> Thank you, John. >> All right. So, the next item on our agenda is the
town manager screening committee. Um and we do have in our packets um it's the town manager appointment policy which indicates this the uh the composition of the screening committee which was pointed out today
does differ somewhat from what's in the charter. Uh in the charter it says that the screening committee will include select board members plural in the policy. It was written there would be at least one but no more than two select board members. So, I guess that means we're going to have to go with the two
select board members to make that make it um conform with that. Um, in the policy, it says at least one representative employee from the town from the town from town staff. The charter says that all the other um
screening committee members need to be town residents. So that means that the repres that the employee must also be a town resident which um I think we can take care of that appropriately. Um
so the other thing I would note the screening the according to the policy the screening committee should consist of seven to nine members. Um what I would propose how I would propose that we decide the composition of the screening committee was it would be first to
select the two select board members that will be on it. Um and then we can decide how we want to uh select the staff person and the rest of the residents and how and and the actual size of the committee whether it's going to be seven or nine members.
So, we know based on what we have received from submissions for the screening committee that that John is interested in being on the screening committee. Um, now I will note that that Dave did ask me if he needed to submit something in writing. I said no because
I figured that part of the screening committee there's a very limited pool to choose from. There's only five of us. So, I told him it wasn't necessary, but I do know that he's interested. Um, so I guess I will ask the other board members if they have an interest in serving on
the screening committee. Aaron, please. >> I I would I'd be willing to serve in that capacity. Absolutely. >> Okay. And Jeff, >> as I mentioned, I'm going to be a road on the road quite a bit in August, and I don't think it would be fair to the rest of the committee if I was one of the
representatives from this board. >> Okay. And I'm gonna also um step back from volunteering for this committee. Um, I I guess the main reason is I've I know we're going to have a a good uh amount of applicants for this. Uh,
Chanc, as we know, a good place to work and when people come here, they usually stay for a while. So, that's a good thing. Um, but I think knowing some of the candidates who may step forward, um, that can be a plus or a minus. So rather than try to um negotiate that part of
it, um I'm going to allow the other two members to be one of or two of the three that have shown an interest. So um each if each of you want to say why you want to be on the committee and then we'll have to narrow it down to two out of the
three of you. So John, why don't you start? Well, [clears throat] I in my uh letter of intent, I uh indicated that uh I have been involved in town government for over 20 years. Um in all different
capacities, finance committee, moderator, select board, now now my second sort of term. Um [clears throat] I have worked closely with two different town managers. Uh the fact that I'm an
attorney I think is is a plus. Uh I I do believe without you know if if another attorney had applied maybe I wouldn't be so um uh hard in advocating for myself but uh I I truly believe that there are
situations where the uh understanding of an attorney can be beneficial. uh in my professional life and in my volunteer life, I have hired uh numerous um CEOs
of nonprofit corporations and I've been involved in all different situations where um you know there was a head hunter who limited the the the number of candidates and then we we interviewed them and we assessed their their qualifications. Um and we also had some
where we we just sort of uh uh uh hired from within. Uh both have [clears throat] their benefits and both are are have their their differences. Uh I do believe that uh my experience of also hiring a number of attorneys over
49 years uh helps and uh I I just think that uh my skill set is sort of unique. >> Okay. Aaron. >> Yeah. Um, thank you Pat. The um, you know, like like John and I'm sure the rest of us sitting around the table,
I've had more than my my fair share of of finding and building teams and and, uh, seeking candidates. Um, I think I've been fortunate enough in most of my career to uh not sit too far from the seauite offices and and be a trusted
adviser to them and and to be side by side with those types of operations uh across multiple different companies. Granted, I don't have uh as much experience in in um government operations, but um I've spent you know, the last eight years um you know,
learning how this town operates, serving on committees, working with um you know, working with um town employees on different things, um working with Paul over the last year as a as a select board member. And you know, I knew that that at some point this, you know, given
the term that I was that I had run for that, um, you know, Paul was likely to announce a retirement. And and that [clears throat] was one of the reasons, you know, one of the reasons behind running. I wanted to have the opportunity to, um, choose a select, you know, help be a part of the team that
would choose the next town manager. And now that I've gotten to know the staff a little bit better, um I feel very passionate that um that I I serve on this committee in whatever capacity um that I can and to help select the next
town manager on behalf of the residents and the employees of the town. >> So I just appreciate the consideration. >> All right, >> yep. On my end, obviously new to the board. Uh but I do have like both of you an immense amount of experience hiring
people from CFOs to um directors of marketing, directors of sales, all different types of environments. I think I bring uh a little bit of a benefit which could be a benefit is I don't know the people as well as you. So I can be very objective in my decision- making
related to who should be fi hired uh based on the data and the communications we have with the people that come up. So um you know I mean a lot of the same things you folks have said apply to me as well. Lots of experience not experience here but in some ways I think
that maybe be be helpful. It's a different mindset than others may have. So just my opinion so >> okay >> could I say something else? >> Sure. I know that the charter says that select board members
can serve and although the policy says that only one or two, I don't see why not. We can't have three. >> I I I see an issue with having a quorum on a on a subcommittee like that. A quorum of the select board. >> Well, we wouldn't be a quorum even if there was seven. We
>> No, a quorum of the of the select board. >> Oh, a quorum of the select board. I really I I don't think that that's I to be honest with you and I and I've spoken to people who were involved in the hiring of Paul Conn. Um you know the more selectmen that they had they the
more comfortable they felt with um the fact that the the process would be fair and that they would pick a a candidate who would uh um best serve the town. And we were fortunate enough to hire someone who stayed with us for 20 years. So I
think that the the proof is in the pudding there. So I you know I don't think we're going to be discussing anything that any other committee wouldn't discuss. Uh that it being three of us. Uh I Paul do you know how many >> there were four on that?
>> There were four before. >> So I don't >> but that doesn't mean that it was the right thing to do. >> Well I think we ought to decide what the right thing is to do. So, I would move that the three of us serve in the committee. It would be nice if someone seconded the
motion. [laughter] >> I'll second it. >> Okay. I mean, you know, this a motion has been made and seconded. Um, you know, I was the author of the policy that said one or two. Obviously, it has to according to the charter, it has to be at least two. Um, and that was the
main reason that what I just said. Uh I I felt uncomfortable having three members of the select board on the on the screening committee, especially if it's only going to be seven members. Um so anyway, but we can talk about that after we finish this. Okay.
>> Um so we do have a motion and a second. Um any further discussion on whether to have three members of the select board on the screening committee? Well, if that's the case, I think we should consider expanding the committee to nine people because we got a lot of really good applicants that came.
>> We do. We do. >> Well, like I said, that would be the the the next uh >> Okay. >> So, you get two for the price of one. All right. So, um a motion and a second.
Um all those in favor of that uh motion >> I unanimous. So we have we start we already have three members of the screening committee in place. All right. So the
um and as I said I you know the this policy was just adopted last summer. Um I mean I was the author of the policy but I did not expect it to have to be used so so quickly. Um the intent was I know some people maybe have read it
differently but the the intent was when we the composition was described to have the members how many members of the the select board and then employees and then the rest of the residents the intent was to to select them separately to and we've done that now with the select
board. So um the next one I would say would be to select the um employee who will be on it. Um if that's you know we can do that next and then do the other the rest of the or although we can also decide right now
how how big we want to make the committee. >> Yeah. [clears throat] Um my feeling is we've got 30 candidates >> um of of varying experiences and um
and and some of whom I know personally and I' I I guess that you you do as well. Um, and with that many people and we're picking six out of 30, um, well over twothirds are not going to
be happy with the decisions we make. So I would just assume throw out there that each one of us pick the top seven or eight people
or nine that we we feel would [snorts] best serve in that capacity in writing. And then we just count the ballots and and that way we don't have to we all know the the people who are running.
We've read the resumes. We know what their what their skill set is. Um I think that before we we do that, if you want to do that, that we also sort of discuss what qualities we think that
candidate should possess. Some of some of those qualities, not all of them. Obviously, none of none of us can possess all of the qualities. Um, but you know, that's that's my thought that if we're all here, we know we were
going to be picking people. And my my feeling was if we all just wrote down names, um, we can put our name on top so that you know, you know, it doesn't necessarily have to be announced, but if you want to, that's fine. um who the people are that that we are
recommending. And if there's one name that shows up in four or five of ours or even maybe three, um maybe that person makes the makes the cut. Um because again, there's 30 of 30 people and
there's five of us and I've got pad of paper and pencils and I you know, how do you feel about that? Um, if if I could, I mean, I I agree with with what you're saying. I wouldn't go to the to nine. I think I think if we each do six, >> that's fine.
>> And then anybody who gets three, hopefully no more than than six people will get more than three votes. And then anybody who gets three is going to automatically be on it. And then if we have to go through a second iteration to to that's fine. Select >> one or two more.
>> That works for me. So Aaron, you were going to >> Yeah, I I um and again, this is a this is just this was my thinking about this, right? Um I wouldn't have a problem if we um if we chose nine and I'll tell you my rationale for thinking that. First of
all, it's an important committee. It's going to take especially with the addition of a select board member. You know, we might need that um some of these bigger committees, there can be a little attrition so people can jump on and then maybe not work out. and I'd still like to make sure that we have a contingency there.
But that being said, I think if you're going to have three select board members um and that leaves that leaves, um you know, um uh four others to go in there, um you know, I do think that >> um I Okay, go ahead.
>> I do think that the um that you know, we have qualified pools of um of town employees and it doesn't say that we're restricted to one. Correct. So, I would I in my selection process that I went through and made all
my little notes, um there's definitely more than one town employee that I think should be considered because of the nature of their job and their experience and those types of things. So, um I would just like to put it out there that I would I don't want to limit that particular group and if you do the math, you can have two town employees, two
residents, everybody's kind of covered is my thought. I [clears throat] I guess I guess you know as as has been mentioned we the I was I was pleasantly surprised by both the quantity and the quality of the applicants that we had.
That's why I would encourage it to be nine because that way we could we could each vote for six and >> and within those those six everybody should be sure they have at least one employee listed, right? >> Um and if you want to have two then that's fine, too. And if you know if two
town employees get three votes then that would that would be a good thing. >> Okay. >> Anybody else have any suggestions? >> I think that's good. >> Well to your point Eron you know if attrition happened I think having a
little bit larger board and it always used to staying over my mother's kitchen sink was God so loved the world he didn't send a committee. >> [laughter] >> Well, I've been on committees that have shrunk and then I've been on other ones that surprisingly haven't shrunk. So, >> well, summertime might be a challenge, too. So, I think having nine people
would be beneficial. >> Well, Paul, do you have a copy? >> I I printed out copies of the applicant list if you guys each want to take one and then fill it. >> Just circle the ones >> and circle the ones. Yeah. And put your name on it because, as you know, you can't have a secret ballot in the >> in a meeting and then you can just read
off what >> Yeah, exactly. So, I was just trying to help. Um, >> I have my own list. He doesn't have an >> Yeah, I didn't know. No, because I didn't know if people had things marked up that they didn't want to be past turning in and stuff. That's why I made a copy for everybody. No.
>> Okay. So, you have two minutes to do this. Oh, I wish. Do we have a report you can do, Paul, while we're doing that? [laughter] >> Report. Jeez. Um, let's see. So what do we say? Six.
>> Yes. >> Six. >> All six. >> Yep. Okay, everybody ready? >> Give one half a second. >> You want to just pass them in? >> I thought we'll let Paul >> give them to you, Paul. >> Sure. Yeah. >> Yeah. He's he's a I think he he's an
objective onlooker in this situation. >> [laughter] >> Oh, >> yes. You don't have to. >> They're [laughter] not in the same order as mine, so it's messed up. There it is. Okay. I have a little six. >> Do you need a name on the top or just >> Yes, you do.
>> Please. >> Did you put your name on your attendant? >> Yes, ma'am. >> All right. Very good. >> So, I got Pads, Jeff, John. There we go. All right. So, now we come to it. you going to read them out or you're
just going to >> I'll let him let him >> Well, let me just I can just Okay, I'll just check it real quick and then just um tally it. >> Okay. So, while he's doing that, we do have one more item having to do with the screening committee and that is whether or not to hire um a search firm to help
us with this. My personal opinion is that I don't think we'll need it with the quality of the people that we have um lined up to do this. And we also have the help of our our uh HR director who will be uh you know a staff person um
for this committee. Uh anybody else have any thoughts on that or >> I don't see any reason to spend the money to be honest with you. >> Correct. Yeah, that too. >> Yeah, to be honest with you, I I agree with both of you. Um, uh, we put it an ad in the, uh, notify the, uh, MMA and,
uh, having only two town managers in 40 years is a pretty positive thing. Yes, >> we're a well-run town. >> We don't have crazy people on the fin uh, the the select board, at least as far as except maybe me. Um and and I
think that uh you know I I think that that would be uh we we probably would get 25 30 applicants at least. >> I wouldn't be surprised. Correct. Yeah. >> Okay. >> I'm I'm pretty confident in uh our ability and the and the screening
committee's ability to to get that. And I think if it doesn't go well, then we can revisit it, but I wouldn't spend the money. >> Okay. All right. I'll take >> Okay. Can can we just get a motion on that since we're >> about whether to
>> So I make a motion that we do not hire an outside service as a as a search committee. >> Second motion. >> Okay, we have a motion and a second. Any further discussion? All in favor? >> I.
>> Okay, thank you. So, what do we have? Well, I could have used the help of the election team that was counting [laughter] ballots in the room, but I but I I do got there's 30 here. No writins. Um but and here's what I have. There are five
people who are in the lead and then you're going to run into a tie for the six. I'll just read you that. [clears throat] >> The five are Christine Clancy received five votes. >> Oh, wow. Good. >> Sam Chase received three votes. Patricia Durus received three votes. Dennis King
received four votes and S. George Zaharulis received three votes. So that gives you five people. Sam, Christine, Trisha, Dennis, and George Zaharulis. So that brings you to eight. The now becomes the issue is you have one,
two, three people that receive two votes. I I'll read who they are. They're they're Nicole Gaitley, um Jessica Porter, and Anita Tanini received three votes. Um beyond that, Lisa Graasso, Elizabeth Hasty,
Maggie Marshall, Bobby Molton, Mike Riggney, and John Soua Jr. received one vote. So I I don't know what what what you want to do with that ninth position. >> Okay. Well, I don't think we're going to expand it to 11. >> No, no, no. Despite what John might be
thinking, there >> Oh, no, no, no. [laughter] I'm not thinking that at all. >> Um, so who had the three votes? >> The three votes were um >> Nicole >> were were Nicole Gaitley, Jessica Porter, and Anita Tanini.
So, if if you want to, you know, do a do you want to just do a runoff at those three people in terms of it probably makes the most sense. >> Uh, yeah, I think so. Um, >> okay. >> I I'm going to and then then I'll pass you back the balance and you can do just
mark it on the other side and make it clear. >> Okay. >> Yeah, that'll work best. >> That'll work the best way. >> Reank the three. >> Reank the three. >> No, no, just one. Just pick one. >> Just one on the back side. So
>> I'll I'll repeat the three names >> like rank choice voting. [laughter] >> Uh the three the three candidates are number 10 Nicole Gaitley, number 24 Jessica Porter and number 29 Anita
Tanini. Those are the three people that received two votes. So the simplest thing is if if each of you choose one of them, whoever has majority would be chosen, >> right? We should we should be able to get you >> want it on the front or the back. >> Whatever. Just as long >> Yeah, you can just write on the back or the front, whatever.
>> I just circled it again and said second round. >> Want to pass that around. It's >> like that ballot question with the open voting. The top two >> rank. Yeah. Frank Troy or the or the top two winners make the final. Yeah.
Okay. So the >> we can't have a tie. >> So the the the uh >> No. Yes. You you No, no, you you No, no, it is it's three to two. So it was close. There were three votes for Anita Tanini. Um and then two votes for um
Jessica Porter. So, um, Pat of the Street, Pat Wess, and and Aaron voted for Jessica Porter and Dave, um, John and Jeff voted for Anita Tanini. Um, so I'm going to hang on to these public record this way. There's no
confusion. Somebody wants [laughter] to validate the election recount, whatever. But, but it's but it's all there. No, because and that's why I read who led the second one, they wouldn't so there was no confusion about a second vote on the thing. So, basically, Anita Tanini would be your ninth member. Okay. So, um
so the manager's office will send letters to these folks and um and should we set a um an expiration date for seating on this committee? >> Um maybe the end of this calendar year. >> Yeah, let's hope. [laughter]
Yeah, I would say to till December 31st. Yeah. Just, you know, as an out outlining date. >> Yeah. Okay. >> All right. >> I mean, if it went if it went longer, we could always >> You could always extend the terms. Yeah. Yeah. I agree with that. And I don't think we need a need a motion since that's what we did. We voted on on who
should be on it. >> Okay. >> Congratulations. >> Thanks. >> All right. So, next item on the agenda is progress on uh hiring a new town accountant. So, I just have a brief report on that. Um we did have we've um
had uh the job posting up since the beginning of April. Um we received five applications. of those five um there are there are at least two that are strong possibilities. Um so we will be doing
interviews over the next sometime this ne next there's already one scheduled for next week and another one maybe for next week or maybe a few a little later than that. Um, and if if one or if one of those is uh
looks like a good candidate, we potentially will have somebody in line to be hired by the end of this month. If not, then we will, um, redouble our efforts to get more applications. So, um, unless anybody has any questions, that's about the update for
now. >> Yeah. Just a question about the, um, the process. So um which you're you're leading um at some point is the decision get made and then we go ahead and appoint it as the board because it's another
>> well it's is you would >> just remind me of the process >> the yeah the the u the interview panel will make a recommendation and then it'll come to the full board to for approval >> of the one of whatever the >> correct >> the candidate and you have five solid resumes you said >> well not five solid we have five resumes
>> five rs [laughter] and a couple candidates Okay. >> Yes. >> All right. Thank you. No, that's good. >> All right, Paul, I don't know if you have anything else to add. >> No, I said I expect obviously when we bring that candidate, the person will will come in person. You'll be able to interview questions or whatever, ask questions, but yeah, that I believe memory serves me that's how we did it
when you know almost 19 years ago and >> so yeah. >> Okay. >> Okay. >> Sorry. And it should if everything goes well, let's assume one of these candidate works out, there's still runway to get them on board before >> Oh, for sure. >> Oh, yeah. Yeah. The idea would be you'd have two months, which is pretty
standard, 60 days. >> Yeah. Darlene's official retirement date is Labor Day. We have Memorial Day and Labor Day for the [laughter] >> Okay. >> And and same thing because Darlene would be hesitant to leave and the midst of goes in the books, they would allow this person enough time. And then when that person's leaving, they could give
adequate notice, too. So, it should work out well if all goes well. >> Yeah. And I knew I knew that she wanted to get all that stuff wrapped up. So, perfect. Thank you. Sorry, Pat. >> Oh, that's fine. Okay. So, next on our agenda is um the uh select board policy
for custodial credit risk and uh John Souza uh gave us brought this forward at our last meeting. Um John, if you want to come up and if anybody has any questions, they can ask you. I don't you know, it looked fine to me. I don't know if anybody else has any questions, but
per our policy, we had to wait till the second meeting before actually adopting it. Any questions? Yeah. I I think this was just as we discussed last time for folks that didn't listen. This was the things that we're codifying in this are things that
we already essentially do. >> Exactly. And and it was it was this is resulted from the last year's audit and the recommendation of the audit firm just to codify it in writing. >> Yep. Okay. Thanks, John. >> All right. So, we can take a motion for
approval of this policy. Make a motion to um approve this policy. Does our board know? >> Yep. >> I'll make a motion that we approve the custodial credit risk policy. >> I second the motion.
>> Okay. We have a motion and a second. Um all in favor? >> I >> I >> Okay, very good. Thanks, John. >> Keep waiting for you to look around the table to do roll call. >> Yeah, [laughter] we don't ask you today. >> All right. Um, next is a a new policy um
to be considered. I guess it's actually an update. >> Yeah, it's an update from our by recycle policy. Yeah. >> So, if you want to tell us about that. >> Yeah. Um, this is an update from our by recycle policy. The the the reason it's on the agenda tonight is it has to have two readings and and we need to have an updated policy in place by June 1st. So,
again, I apologize for the short notice. This is for the talent eligibility um for for grant funding um you know under the basically the you know buy recycle or green communities sustainable purchasing policy. Um so what we have is
we have the you know draft policy um that's issued you know by the grant you know issuers uh and this was goes through our public works sustainability manage manager Chris Haley um and and I guess in summary you know the text is there but I think in summary for those
watching because it's a lot of text is that basically it says that the town should prioritize the purchase of environmentally preferable products and products made with recycled materials whenever such products meet performance requirements. ments and are available at reasonable prices and terms. There's a lot in that sentence, but I think it
really says what it is. The it's a prioritization um and of environmentally preferable products and recycled provided they meet performance standards and reasonable prices and terms. That's the key. So, it doesn't bind you. It doesn't handcuff you, but basically says this is how the
town should go and if and if those conditions are met, you know, then that's what will happen. So, and we do many of these things already anyway like buying recycled copy paper you know we we minimize our our waste disposal um you know we um you know purchase re
recycled materials um you know we even in things whether it's asphalt reclamation those those type of areas um and um you know we're always looking at at best ways again to minimize waste disposal and so forth um and basically
the whole goal is to minimize trash um to what really isn't you know usable and therefore that's supporting this. So that's what this policy is. So again your your policy is not to vote on the night of the policy but the goal would be to bring this back on the 18th for adoption and then we can submit this
that we're in compliance with this policy when we submit for our our um recycled grant. >> Okay. Any questions about this? >> So there's no action for us tonight? >> No, you can't because you because it's a new policy. Yeah, but you can ask question. >> If there's any questions, we we can answer them or
>> I just have one question. Has Budrey been consulted related to this? >> I assume yes, >> I believe. Yeah, I believe that this goes just noted in the documentation. >> Chris Haley, who sits as a sustainability attends and and interact with the recycling committee and the sustainability committee.
>> That wouldn't have gone over well. >> Yeah. No, exactly. No, this is perfectly upre wheelhouse. So Paul, ju just to make sure I heard you correctly at the beginning, this is this opens us up to ensures that we stay open to grant opportunities >> and we're already doing it anyways.
>> Exactly. Yeah. It's just it's just updating it because we do with the terms and conditions. >> Yeah. >> Thanks. Okay. Great. So we'll we'll place that on your agenda for for a vote action next meeting. >> Okay. Thank you. All right. Next is uh select board liaison assignment. So
thanks everybody for um getting back to me on on what you wanted to um reach out to the committees you wanted to uh have a leazison to. If you look at this list there are a couple of um actually three blanks for capital planning uh
commission on disabilities and permanent building committee. So, um, if anybody would like to take the lead on one or more of those, >> I I can tell you for your consideration, and John's in the room, capital Planning Committee lasts what, five weeks?
>> It's about five weeks. Basically, it's from mid November to early December. Usually, it's one meeting a week on a Wednesday night or what have you. But, so whereas the other ones are year round. So, if that helps, >> in terms of I'll [laughter]
>> I thought I mentioned to you that if nobody else wanted it, I would be happy to take that just cuz it's >> Okay. Well, it looks like we have a couple of volunteers. >> Well, no, if you want it, go ahead. >> No, no, >> well, I think Dave is I was going to say three people, >> right? I've got committee assignments. So, [laughter]
>> I'll pick Dave to take that one. >> You'll pick Dave. Okay. >> It's a It's a fun group, Dave. It really is a good insight. It'll give you good insight. >> It's Yeah. Not a not a heavy. Yeah. >> Um, anybody interested in commission on disabilities, >> what's the commitment?
>> Um, I mean, you know, it's it's monthly like any liaison, you you know, you attend if you can or if you have an, you know, if there's something on the agenda that might interest you. You're the first point of contact if they want to come before us. Um, you know, they meet
once a month. Um, but you know, you can't make it >> somebody who's lived through it, I think. >> Yeah, I think you already have some good insights, Jeff, to be honest. No interest people. Yeah. >> All right. How about permanent building? That leaves John and Aaron to fight off that one. Neither of you interested in
that one? >> If John wants it, he's got it. If not, I'll more than happy do it. >> Well, I I really don't know much about buildings and engineering and all that stuff. So, >> maybe you could learn, but Okay. [laughter] >> I can just tell you what they're doing right now, what they'll be doing over the next 12 months. And John's here in
the room with me. They basically sort of look over and not in a regulatory way or otherwise what's going on with the fire stations pro project construction project and they're keeping tabs with the parker school building project. So as well as any other building projects that come in in the meantime some of the
major things. So they they don't meet Yeah. Yeah. They don't meet No, he's no longer on there. They no longer they don't meet every month. They meet as needed if an issue arises on those projects. So, I would say they're probably meeting every other month or so is probably fair, I think, John. Right.
In terms of the the committee's meeting schedule and again, they're they're keeping tabs on right now. That's what's on their their plate for the next 12 months is, >> you know, particularly the fire station one because that's moving forward. Obviously, you know, the the uh the Parker School one is really only in the
feasibility stage. >> Okay. So, Aaron, you're okay with that one? >> Okay. Um and one that I wanted to to you know get some Paul can maybe explain this better than I can about the school building committee. Um we did have Pat Maloney listed there. Um there's been I
guess there's some discussion as to whether he's a select board appointee or um just some other way he was appointed there. Um, I know we had him listed here as a member, but um, what and quite frankly, I don't remember if the if the
board voted for him to be on there or if the chair put >> No, the the board voted. It was a board vote at your meeting in April of uh of 2024. Um the just to give you some insight as
Pat suggested the it yeah on June on June 3rd of 2024 the select board uh approved the list for the school building committee u by a five to zero vote. Remember at the time Pat we added John Souza to the committee. I don't you
recall that discussion going back to that time. Anyway, how it works is and and why there's a little bit of confusion is the Mass School Building Authority, which as you know is the oversight funding agent for this project, they have what what they call are required positions for any community for a school building committee across
the Commonwealth because you can imagine the number of projects and communities they're dealing with. So that committee requires one member be someone who is Massachusetts um procurement certified and that was Brandon Kelly who was a town resident on Kel Road. Local chief
executive officer that was me as town manager. Um school committee member that was Dennis King and still is Dennis King. Superintendent of Schools, local official responsible for building maintenance. That was my Matt Schwitzer or is Matt Schwitzer representative
office authorized by law to construct school buildings. That was Tim Powderly because again he's permanent building committee chair school principal Josh Black. He's on there member knowledgeable in education mission and function of facility. That was Brian
Curley um who again is in the schools on the building side local budget official or member of local finance committee Jim Clancy who's a finance committee chair it also has to include and has included members of community with architecture
engineering andor construction experience that was Christine Clancy or is Christine Clancy our public works director and then there was this category called other um provide brief background information expertise that's where you Pat Maloney. He's listed as
select board member. And then in the narrative, we described that Pat had served on the 2004 Chumpset School Building Committee, which oversaw the $31 million renovation in addition to portions of Chumpset High School, McCarthy Middle School, and Parker Middle School. He served as chair of the permanent building committee, and
oversaw the construction of a DPW headquarters, fire department headquarters, and renovation of historic town halls. He also served as the owner's project manager for the renovation of the North Chumps Fire Station. Uh it also included Joanna Johnson Collins who's the director of business and finance for the school
department and as directed by the board at the vote we included John Souzer our finance director treasurer collector. So that's the composition of the committee. So as you can see it doesn't require that be a select board member but if you technically look at the form when we listed Pat Maloney at the time
he was a select board member. So I listed him as select board member and then noted all of his other accomplishments. So there's obviously going to be one less member on the committee be by my departure. The fact that the acting town manager um John is already on there. So if you wish you can
put a select board member on that committee and it'll be accepted by the MSBA at the state level. Uh what they basically require is that any changes to the composition of the committee be submitted within 20 days for their approval. And that's going to happen anyway because I'll be departing in 20
days. So the question is really yours. Do you want to put one of you or I guess technically put anybody else on at this point to, you know, add another member to the committee based on my departure? >> Okay. And I understand that that Pat is the chair. Is that correct?
>> Pat Pat is the chair. Yes. >> Yeah. So, I guess given that that that might, you know, create some some chaos, I guess given that Paul is going to be leaving and and Pat being the chair, um I would suggest kind of suggest what what Paul is kind of alluding to that we
could um appoint somebody else from this board to that committee. And I mean, I'd be willing to to do it. Um, and I, you know, I I understand >> the committee meets the third Thursday of every month, you know, at at the, uh, school admin building, you know, like
clockwork, basically, you know, 6:30 the third Thursday of every month, and that probably won't change, although you could get some extra meetings as you get later in the year, but >> but yeah. >> Okay. You know, I don't know if anybody else has any thoughts on that. >> Sounds like you said,
>> I'd go with your go with the guidance of the >> Yeah. >> You and Paul. And you do have school background being in the show with tech. You've been dealing with that kind of stuff and we know they're getting some capital projects, >> right? That's that's on my leazison. >> Okay. [laughter] Okay. All right. So, I I will notify the
MSBA that you should take a vote. Yeah. And then Yeah, because just like we did the first thing. >> Okay. >> Um to appoint um you know, the chair Pat uh as a replacement, you know, for me on the committee and then that way I can submit the vote uh and notice to the MSBA.
>> Okay. I'll make a motion we add Pat Wes to the school building committee. >> Second the motion. >> Okay. Uh there's been a motion and a second. Any further discussion? All in favor? >> I >> Okay. Thanks very much. >> Thank you.
>> All right. And thanks for everybody stepping up for these liazison assignments. Appreciate it. That turned out to be not too difficult to do. All right. So Tom manager bid awards. >> Okay. Just two items for your consideration this evening. The first
one is for the Chsford tree and invasive species inventory and management study. Um this was a request for proposals as opposed to an invitation for bids which means the proposals evaluated um irrespective of cost for the best quality. Seven proposals were received.
U the DPW selection committee uh reviewed the seven proposals and selected Davyy research group as the most advantageous proposal. Um although they had not worked with Davy Research Group directly um they had great good references and similar project examples.
You may better know them as Davy Tree Service. They've been around for forever as a as you know company. Anyway, the quote was was within the budget. Um the quote was in the amount of 91,896 for a for a product with a $100,000
budget. Um so therefore I'm seeking your confirmation to award the chancer tree and invasive species inventory and management study to Davy Research Group of Shrewsbury Mass in the amount of 91,896. >> Okay. Are there any questions about this bid?
>> No. I've worked with these people for many years through the cemeteries and they're a fantastic company. >> That's good. >> All right. So we'll take a motion. I'll make a motion that we approve the Davy tree service for the
>> tree and invasive species for >> the tree and invasive >> study. Yeah, >> species inventory study. >> And I second the motion. >> Okay, we have a motion and a second. All in favor? Okay. And then the second and final bid this
evening is a little easier to understand and deal with. This is for the renovation of the town offic's bathroom, the first floor in this building. Um again, public works handled this procurement. Um construction cost estimate was was approximately $192,000.
Three general bids were received. Um the lowest qualified bidder um was um Pard Construction uh in the amount of $163,881. Their bid included all the requirement documents and was was deemed to be
responsive and responsible. Um the town has direct experience with Bard in recent years with positive results and uh and is dealing with it for the Southro school ceiling project. So again, I'm seeking your confirmation uh in the in the bid amount to Bard
Construction Corporation 163,881. As you can see, it was just a a hair over the lowest bidder who unfortunately um did not include the required DAM update statement um which which is a material um component of the bid
process. >> So this is just for the bathrooms on the first floor. Is that correct? >> Yes. >> Okay. Any other questions about this bid? >> Okay, make a motion. >> I'll make a motion. We recommend town managers go with the town manage
recommendation of Bard Construction Corporation to renovate the town office bathrooms >> on the first floor. >> Then I second the motion. >> Okay, a motion and a second. All in favor? >> Thank you.
>> All right, town manager reports. Yeah, real real quick this evening. Um, we've been here close to two hours, but but my reports are pretty straightforward. The first one is basically your your approval to uh and although it doesn't happen to happen this evening, you can
do it at your next meeting, but um there is a class action litigation process underway um regarding fire apparatus price fixing. This sort of falls in the wake of our participation in the PAS uh
and in the um uh opioid opioids uh class action litig litigation. Uh KP law is once again a partner in this um process. Um and so with they have sent out the materials uh
and they are recommending that their clients um participate in this process. Um so again I would seek you know your your direction. Um how this works is like most class action. There's there's no um
financial investment by the town to do it. But it does involve work by the fire department or accounting and others to provide the documentation to verify what are known facts which are that in recent years the cost of fire apparatus has risen well past the rate of
inflation and the time period to obtain fire apparatus has expanded significantly. and the and again it will be up to the federal courts to determine whether this was due to you know uh you know improper influence of the market.
Um so that's that's the request here on on this and as I said you know you can act on it this evening or you can bring it back for two weeks um for for further consideration. But I I as we've seen in the past, we haven't seen a downside in participating in these studies as I said
with the opioids and and our partners in the water districts on the PAS as well. And this does the the early indications are is that this you know there there is some merit um by the initial judicial review of this uh concern.
>> Anyone have any questions? Yeah, I'm I'm just curious, Chie. Brian, how do you feel about this? You're the one who would have to be doing the work. [laughter] >> I was just going to say if there's a downside, that is the downside. There's a lot of work involved, but I certainly support this initiative. Uh, if anybody
saw my finance presentation back in March, I touched on this topic because the Senate brought this up back in I think it was September of last year and it kind of if you look at the white paper that came out, they were looking at a 7B Federal Trade Commission study.
I support the study, but I think that's going to take some time. You know, we're waiting 3 years, four years maybe to get a truck. There's escalators built into the contract that the manager has to sign that if the truck is not delivered on time, the costs go up, the price that
we pay most likely will go up. So, um, as the manager said, you know, it's it's not just the cost that is doubled, it's also the wait time and is a cost to the wait time, a financial cost to the town. So, I certainly backed this up and I'm willing to put in the time and I have
been looking over the documents and providing that documentation along with the accounting staff and finance director John. >> Makes a lot of sense to me a class action lawsuit um where the the town could recover significant money for for the um way
that they have abused us >> and and prevent costs in the future too because we we're going to be coming in for replacement apparatus. And if again if they can get this market back to a you know competitive market it would it would be helpful. >> I will also [snorts] say since this has been brought to my attention I've also
reached out to area chiefs and they have strong support with their communities to jump on this. >> Right. And if you want to talk about the gear contamination part of it too. I mean I know that that's is it is it one lawsuit or is it is it separate lawsuits? >> That would be separate separate. That would be separate. Yeah. >> Okay.
And they were also talking about G was a call. This is also going into the which we don't provide but this has also been a concern with communities that are purchasing ambulances as well. There are a few ambulance providers and it's the same type of you know as you can see there there's this concern nationwide on these things and we see it with bus
contracts uh and other things as well. The lack of of market competitiveness. >> Yeah. And also like DBW trucks. >> DBW trucks. Yeah. >> So is this is this just kicking off now? Like do we have any idea where the status is of the whole thing or
>> they basically the reason they've advanced this is they've had an initial inquiry a success leading to the fact that this is going to move rather quickly towards a class action suit. >> Yeah. I didn't get a chance to read the whole presentation. Hopefully we can resolve it before you retire.
>> Uh well I mean what they're looking for is quite extensive. You know they're looking for your contracts that you have which I'm compiling that. They're looking for you know the weight times. are looking for um the costs. >> So since we've had to keep the truck longer, what are the what are the costs that we're putting into the trucks? So
now you know deputies here um and a Griffin. So we're compiling that information to it's quite extensive. But I think we're willing to put the work in because I think it's worthwhile pursuit. I really do. >> So should we take these separately, Paul? because there is documentation in
here on the >> Yeah, I think at this point the only one that they're seeking on right now is the fire truck um Okay. >> price fixing cost recovery litigation >> because that's moving. The other one the other one is probably in the background but and not you know not at the I don't
think you need action at this time for that. >> Okay. Did you have something else you want more to add John? >> No. No. >> Yeah. I don't see any reason to wait if that's the perview of the board. And I did ask council whether we should have the discussion in open or close session and and council fair who's our main
council said communities are handling it either way. So we might as well let the community know that we're trying to uh recover and prevent future costs. >> So just to be clear, this is the fire trucks only, not the PFA. >> This is just the fire trucks >> only. It all seemed like one when I read
it today. So okay. >> All right. So we'll take a motion. I'll make a motion that we support the um partnering in this litigation for the fire trucks. >> Second the motion.
>> Okay, we have a motion and a second. All in favor? >> I excut now. >> Okay. Okay, the next item on my report is the um let the community know and the board know. You remember we had a discussion recently regarding the Chumps
at Arms which is one Smith Street um the comprehensive permit application submitted by Choice which is the nonprofit affiliate of the Chsood Housing Authority. It's an update to you and the community that since the time that the board has considered this, the application has been submitted to the
zoning board of appeals um for the 96 rental units. That hearing is scheduled for um Thursday, June 4th to open. And also we did receive a copy through this application uh of the project eligibility letter from the executive
office of housing and livable communities which is a necessary component um to submit a 40B application. So bottom line is is there, you know, the housing choice uh will be advancing this again with notice to abuts and so forth at the hearing will
open on June 4th. Um the next item I have is um pertains to uh the new state law that Governor Healey signed um on Sunday, April 19th pertaining to uh the Cannabis Control Commission. Um in in
that modernization act of of the commission which got a lot of attention regarding the composition of the commission and so forth, there's a provision that um effective immediately all municipalities that allowed licensed marijuana retailers um must allow residents within its
border to receive licensed cannabis deliveries. Then there's cities and towns similar to Chelsu that prohibit licensed retail operations must now opt out if the municipality wishes to prohibit its adult residents from receiving such deliveries. Um so
basically what they're saying is you know under the new status limited deliveries permitted in every municipality that's basically for medical is allowed. However, a municipality that does not wish to authorize retail marijuana establishment
licenses within its borders may request a waiver from the commission. Upon initial request, the commission must grant the waiver and the municipality may temporarily prohibit delivery within its jurisdiction. So, basically, you make the initial request, it's prohibited. Then the waiver is valid for
two years, and then at the two-year point, um the any extension of two-year increments is at the commission's discretion. Um so, that's what the community has to decide. You do not have to decide this tonight because at this point in time, the commission has not
issued any further guidance on the application procedures, timelines, and implementations of its regulatory procedures under the act. So again, this is more of an informative thing saying, "Hey, look folks, there's a new law. If the if the select board on behalf of the community wants to prohibit retail
marijuana deliveries within the community, um you would have to submit the application process um when those materials become available from the Cannabis Control Commission. And under the statute, they'd have they would grant you a two-year initial license. Anything beyond two years is
discretionary at the commission's point. So again, not looking for a decision tonight, but I'm making you aware of the new statute. Um, >> well, Paul, as I asked, um, if we allowed it in town, that would not give us the tax benefit, right? >> No, no delivery. It just means that they
can deliver in your town. Kind of like GrubHub for cannabis, you know, that you don't get you don't get any you don't get any revenue fees. It just they just deliver in your community. So where who gets the revenues are the places that are selling it, just like GrubHub. That's why I use that as an example. you
know, they they they're getting the meal stacks where the food's coming from, not where they're delivering it to. >> Okay. As you said, we don't have to vote on it. >> We don't have to have vote on, but I just want community aware of it because this sort of flew under the radar until we get this notice from the commission saying, "Oh, by the way, the governor
signed this thing today and this is a new provision." Um, okay. Speaking of legislature and earmarks, um, the legislature uh is is an active session dealing with budgets. Um, two quick things regarding the state supplemental
fiscal year 2026 operating budget. Um, our delegation was has two earmarks that are in now conference committee. One would be for $25,000 for costs associated with the um ensuring safe access to the Bruce Freeman rail trail
and the other is $25,000 to the town for design improvements to the Chumpset Center traffic signalization. Um so again they're now in conference committee. The expectation is is within a reasonable period of time it will come
out of conference committee. Generally the earmarks tend to survive conference committee. So just wanted to make you aware of that and then when it does become effective we'll be notified uh and um again then becomes the application and paperwork with the
state. And then finally on the state operating budget for fiscal year 27 that starts on July 1. As you may be aware last week the House of Representatives adopted its version of the FY27 operating state budget. There were four
air marks for Chsid in there. Um that includes 25,000 for a council on aging for nutrition services. $30,000 for aquatic management study at Heart Pond. uh 25,000 for um efforts to address PAS
contamination through the granulated carbon filtration system. Uh and then finally 25,000 to be expanded by the town of Chsford for the maintenance of the Bruce Freeman rail trail. Um what's so that go to conference committee. What's happening now is tomorrow the
Senate Ways and Means Committee's version of the budget will be released. Um and although today they announced that they're going to include more local aid and sort of like a sneak preview um coming attractions u which was good news for cities and towns. Um
um I did hear from Senator Barrett's office today. They did receive the list that I I had indicated that I had forwarded to you. Um they asked me for some kind of rank prioritization. Obviously, I didn't ask for anything that was in the House version because you don't want to do that because what
you want to do is is get things on both sides and they both come out. Whereas, if you duplicate it, you're just duplicating what you have. Um, so I provided that today. Again, the House, I'm sorry, the Senate will finish its budget. They debate the week going into Memorial Day weekend. So, basically,
they released it today. They got a week to get amendments in and then basically they finish before Memorial Day weekend. Um, so that's that's what will happen. And then from there we'll go to conference committee and hopefully if they all goes well they'd have it done by July 1. If not there'll be a
temporary state budget and it'll be adopted shortly thereafter. So that's where we are with earmarks. Uh and that concludes my report for this evening. Thank you. >> Okay. No problem. >> All right. Uh meeting minutes. We have a couple sets of minutes.
Um I think we can probably take them together. Anybody have any edits or anything for for either? >> No. >> Nope. >> We can take a motion.
>> Um, April 9th and April 13th. And April 13th. >> I'll make a motion that we approve the minutes for the April 9th meeting and the April 13th meeting. Second the motion.
>> A motion and a second. Uh, all in favor? >> I. >> Okay. Thank you. >> All right. Leaison reports. Um, John, we'll start with you. You have anything? >> I just got appointed. [laughter] >> All right. Uh, Jeff.
>> Well, has there been a reorg conservation? [sighs] >> I don't know. >> I'll reach out to them. >> I don't know. I haven't heard I know Dave McGlaughlin has joined for for the appointment but I haven't heard of any change in in the chair of the conservation commission. So I don't
know. >> Well the chair is the one who stepped on. So >> yeah that's what I'm saying. >> I'll reach out to them and before next meeting. >> Oh >> also I know the parade committee is meeting next week and we are two months
away from the parade today. So, as I mentioned, if I'd love to see more people volunteer and get involved so they can see how we operate during that last month going into the event itself. And it's been a blast. I got to tell you
folks, it's a great committee. If you're considering it, please just do it. Um, and besides that, I mean, I know the cemetery we've I've been working with the uh the uh superintendent over some
issues on some of the plaques and we're going to replace those and we're going to get them cleaned up on the niche walls and that's it. >> Okay, >> Dave, >> on my end, I met with Budri uh for the Clean Energy and Sustainability Committee and had a couple hour meeting
with him on Sunday. So, a lot of good information out there about what the plan is for his group and the four pillars that he has in place for that. I know he presented it at the town meeting, but we went into a lot more detail on that. So, I'll be looking forward to the next meeting to sit with
the rest of the committee on that. The other thing I did was I reached out to Denise Pigeon about it's not an official liaison, but I think it's probably going to be pretty interesting to be on is this Nshoba technical committee that she has a number of people who can provide
input to the programs at the school. >> So, very good. >> Uh yeah, again, uh kind of kind of quiet for mine now, although we're definitely ramping up. Um so, as a couple of shoutouts I' I definitely would like to
make. Um uh I did hear from the center water district. So they just wanted to correct the time. I spoke with John today about it. Um so Paul, I don't know if this is I don't want to be out of line. I could sit and go through and kind of reach out and update our
assignment list, but there are a couple that are out of date. I didn't know if that was something that James could maybe take a look at if he has a better idea because he's helping to, you know, schedule these meetings and stuff. if he could just take it and just check with all of the people. I mean, I know the ones that I do because most of them are
the same. But if it's okay, if he doesn't have time, I'll do it. I just don't know when I get it done. Um, so, uh, one shout out to, um, our friends over at the high school, the, uh, marching band, the coral group, and the
orchestra, um, for a successful trip down to, uh, Disneyland where they performed at, uh, Disney Springs on the music stage, and the marching band got to march down by themselves this year. And um you know I think it's pretty cool that our kids got to march in front of
you know 10 15,000 people lining Main Street down there. Um and it was a a privilege to get to see there not only to see my kids but all those kids that I've gotten to know over the years. They do it once every four years. Um when they do it again in four years you're more than welcome to go down there and
watch and support the group. There was a lot of Jonesford Church that that um that week that we were down there. Um and then the other night um they performed their cabaret. It's their second year of the theater group. Um, amazingly talented kids. We are very fortunate and I know you guys all know
this. I'm preaching to the choir. Um, but I think they're I think it was a resounding success for this uh cabaret set of mini performances. They had the young kids from Parker come. Um, uh, it was just it was impressive. in the fact that the next night um I the next day I
had a meeting and Pat I'll let you talk about the historical commission but I went to to join that and um and I got out of there as soon as that was over and I was able to go make the second half again because it was that good. Um so I just want people to remember we are very fortunate for the programs we have
here in town for the arts and and the success that our kids are having at the um at the high school. So um I thank all of them and the folks that support them over there for that. And then again, I I uh I got the opportunity to to do the Chumford historical um meeting the other
night. Um and you know, Paul was there, Pat and John were there. Um and I thought it was a great session. I'll let I'll let Pat talk about that. But um I think the idea of this cold cane is uh is pretty interesting, too. And I'll let you share that since we we recently gave
um uh Dean's mother that uh the uh certification for 109, right? Correct. 109. So correct. >> So that's all I have. I'll let that wrap up. >> Okay. So I have a a few things. Uh first of all, um condolences to the family of Eric Groves. Uh he passed away last
week. Um he was a longtime library trustee in in Chamsford. Um so um I served with him I think for probably three or four years and uh um he was very active as as a trustee. So sad to to hear about his passing. Um, as uh as
has been mentioned by a couple by Paul and by and by Dave, there is news from the Shobetech. Um, last week they um they were given permission to um release the information that they were granted a $3.25 million grant in order to set up
two new programs at NHOBA for HVAC and facilities maintenance. um these these are uh programs that people have been you know asking them to set up for quite a while now. So they're going to be able to go forward with that. It may mean more students or it may mean maybe
scaling back on some of the other programs but we'll find out at some point. But that's very impressive. Um, [clears throat] this past weekend, the Chanced Friends of the Library had their used book sale in the town offices at the at the gym and uh, generated almost
$27,000 worth of revenue from just selling used books at, you know, anywhere from 25 cents to $2 each. So, uh, they have to sell a lot of books to make that much money. So, good for them. And as been mentioned, um the Chancellor Historic
Society had their guardian uh award presentation uh this past Saturday and uh the award was presented to Andy Wilson who is owner of the um the realy building at the corner of uh 110 and
129. Um so he was given the award for his his efforts to maintain that building as a historic building. And as part of the program too, this is kind of a new thing that they're instituting there or I guess an old thing that they're bringing back which is the the
Boston Post cane which typically is uh given to the oldest resident in the town. Most many communities already have it. We used to have it and then it kind of faded away so they're reinstituting it and it was awarded to Sylvia Ktover
who in January turned 109 and she's a pretty amazing woman. I don't know. I think it's going to be hard to it's going to be a long time before somebody replaces her. [laughter] Um so anyway, so uh Sylvia is an amazing woman. And and lastly, uh last uh Friday
there was um a graduation of the from the uh firefighters academy. Um, I was there, Paul was there, John and and Dave was were there to see uh firefighters Christopher Cannon and Patrick Hogan uh receive their certificates of of
completion of the course. Uh, so we're looking forward to seeing them active on the on the fire department. And that is all I have for right now. So I'll entertain a motion. I'll make a motion we adjourn to executive session to discuss strategy
with respect to the litigation pursuant to general law chapter 38 section 2183 for the cases listed on the posted agenda not to return to open session. >> Second the motion. >> Okay. And I I have to make a a statement
that we're going to executive session because open session would have a detrimental effect on the litigating position of the town. And uh with that we'll take a roll call vote to go to executive session. So Aaron >> yes >> yes. >> Jeff >> yes. >> Yes.
>> And I'm yes. Okay. So we are adjourned to executive session not to return to open s