All right. Whenever you're ready. >> Good. Yep. >> Call the meeting of uh finance committee to order from April 16th 6:00. Uh we'll stand for the pledge of allegiance to the flag of the United States of
America to the republic for which it stands. One nation indivisible with liberty and justice for all. We do have one one member on on the Zoom. So we'll do a roll call. Start over here. >> Ruto present.
>> Susan Loren present. >> Peter Roach present. >> Jake >> Jake's here. Jake Stevens present. >> Thank you Jake. >> All right. Uh before we get into the budget recommendations and in our new
packets, the library wanted to speak to their budget. >> Okay. >> 610. Thank you. Yeah, >> that's right. >> Okay. All right. So, I submitted the
memo on an updated budget um to you all. I do want to point out that since I wrote that memo, um the trustes approved that they actually approved a few different changes to the budget allowed me to tweak a little bit more and I was able to drop it even even further. So, I
want to go over that real quick. Um the first line that has this chain is actually line 105. Um Christie, they did not have 66,63069.
The new number for that is $67,964.40. So that that got a um raise an increase on that one. The line right below that um 5106 changed significantly. Um so you'll
see on your zerobased budget worksheets, there are three positions there. um two full-time that are existing and one part-time. We had a retirement. It got we're going to cut that down to part-time. Um it turns out when we initially voted on it, we were going to keep the same pay rate for that position. But in
discussing it, because we were cutting it down to part-time, responsibilities were taken away. It just made sense to that pay. So that that position dropped significantly. Um so I now have a new number on there of 9,000. Uh, sorry,
sorry. 98,310. Line 5107 I initially took off. We're going to put on to grant funds. I'm actually putting that 12,000 back on. Um, I'm taking one position in grant funds. It's going to be that part-time um tech service librarian that that has retired. So, I'm taking one position in
grant funds, replacing that one back on the appropriation. Line 5,300, I'm pretty much level funding $10,62. And line 5510, I am level funding $56,000 even. That
drops the total appropriation asks down to $315,984, not $324,829.76 that originally was submitted. Um, all in all, that is basically a 19.9% cut. And when I say cut, it's it's a that's
really it's really reallocation, attrition, all that stuff. Um, that's really what we have going on there. Um, I'm going to pause because I know the selectment I presented a budget of select and they had their recommendations and responses. I'm going to pause. Um, I have trustees
uh trustees are here. Although I have the power and ability to talk through budget lines and all that. I don't have the ability to ratify a budget consent to you. So I I like to talk it through the dete on and then the trustees if it meets their liking they they can they
can vote to approve what what's what's discussed. So that's the budget I would like to submit now. Any any feedback? Happy to answer any questions. I know we can reach a number that we're all comfortable with. >> Just to reiterate. So we've got 67 98
12,000 3800 total down here 136 for expenses. >> Where where are we looking? >> I'm sorry. >> So 510567
679 5106 98,300 5107 12,000 >> Mhm. And then the the only change down below is the uh 5510. I I I have 5,300. I'm adding $62 back in. And then I'm
taking $2,000 away from 5510. >> Okay. >> That brings us down to 315,984. >> And that the salary lines that I read, those were >> those those are correct. Yep. Yep. Those are what I would propose. >> And that for two full-time, one part
time. >> Yep. And that one that one part time is coming off the appropriation. going to take that much in grant funds. >> Okay. >> Mhm. I can only really feel I'm taking one right now. So, we're going to take the one that makes more basically. >> And that's the drop from 119 to 98.
>> Correct. Yes. Cuz that's our position. >> Correct. Yes. Correct. And to do that, we're pulling 34 off of the town health insurance and putting it on to the library. Is that >> No. So, so what happened there is as of before the retirement I had let's see
there was me there was tech service librarian it was a children's services librarian and the circulation librarian youth services librarian did not have benefits for the town the person who retired um that was
Phyllis that was $9,800 health insurance that that is going to be gone um because that's going to be a part-time position now so that's completely eliminated um my health insurance and then circulation librarian health insurance. That's what's going to move to the library budget and that allows me to cut
basically 44,000 reallocated to do that. If I take on lines the town is already on the hook for >> I I I can I can cut and it will save it saves the town the bottom line >> and I can still maintain my minimum for certification. But if I cut out right
and I I mean if I take on then I can cut if I take what the town's on the hook for then it really does help the town's bottom line is that that's the logic of rational reasoning there. Um so that the grant is cover more than $20,000 of payroll.
>> Well no it should be covering no. So that that difference. So the trustees voted um we initially had that position coming in at a higher rate but because we dropped it a part-time the trustes thought about it further and they dropped the pay rate. So although the
decrease is is significant that there's two things contributing to that decrease. One is the initial pay rate for that position dropped which lowered which eliminated um monies from that line outright and then we're shifting the remainder to grant funds. So it
wouldn't be it wouldn't be 119 to 98. We're going 137 to 98. >> Yeah. Yes. Yes. That's right. That's right. That's right. That's right. >> So basically Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. So it's not >> Yes. That's what's going Okay. Mhm.
Anybody have any questions for >> No, that's that's uh >> got it for me as far as the grant funding. Tom, >> anything you want to say to your sister that you normally can't say? >> We'll wait till we get home.
>> You guys No, it's excellent. Oh, good job, Jake. Anything? Thank you. >> Nope, I'm good. >> Okay. >> If I can say specifically to uh Mr. Sevens, um that line at 5105, I know you may had some comments. Prom was the last meeting. It has gone in the other
direction. It's not it's not going down. It's it's it's it's going up. And I was still able to reduce the budget even with that going up. So, your comments were noted and they were a blowout. Thank you. >> Thank Thank you. Yeah, I don't think we would have let you do that anyways, but that's all right. I'm not going to put
you anymore. It's been taken care of. >> A whole I hear a whole room loud and clear. I take that to heart. >> All right. Thank you guys. >> Thank you. Do you mind the trustes? I kind of apply. Trustes will need to approve that budget in order to have it
go forward. >> I move that we approve it. Second f I move that we adjourn. All in favor? I >> thank you for committee to be on.
>> Now we're going to We'll have a new member, but he's got to come back from vacation. >> He's on vacation. I'm going out this week. >> Thank you, ladies. >> You can email me that. >> I will email you. I'll be at the next the joint selecting too. They'll be there, too. I can't say the more stuff
on the fly. Thank you very much. Thank you. Thank you. the elected the newly elected people go into their roles >> Monday. Monday. Okay. >> That's right after the election. >> Right after. >> All right. So,
>> want to go over all of the papers that I just gave you? >> Yeah, sure. >> Okay. So the top sheet was it's just a summary of the potential articles. The selectman haven't voted to place any of them on the warrant.
Um but I know with Peter not being here next week. We did plan on a joint BLS and FINCOM meeting next Wednesday at their regularly scheduled meeting and they are planning to place the warrants and then the finance committee to give the funding recommendations. So, I was
just wondering if we could briefly go through that just to summarize while everybody was here. Um, the next page is Ralph's one sheet document that shows the revenues and the expenses. We did have a change that came out from
the House vote today. So, it was less revenue, more assessment. So, we did have the excess levy around 100,000 or 107 and now it's down to 83. The next >> this is updated.
>> Yeah, that's the updated one. Um the next one that's a couple of pages is the individual revenues by category. So the first column shows what we estimated for 26. What's been received through March is the middle section with percentages. And then what we're estimating for 27 is
on the far right column. The next sheet is just a summary by department um for siphon changes on what the town administrator re recommended and the selectman recommended and also
there were any personnel changes. That's just a little summary by department. >> The next one is our free cash. Um, so we are planning to use almost half a million for the budget and then a couple of items that we have to do and
then that leaves us 341,654 for the articles that have not been placed on the water yet. And then the last sheet came from Paul, our treasurer, and it's a breakdown of the health insurance budget. So at the
very bottom um he's saying there is a little bit of a buffer but I asked him because he didn't realize what exactly was being asked of him. So then I said you know if we were to reduce that because we do need a buffer if people come on to a
family plan or you know >> Mhm. >> like changes. Um, so he would only be comfortable with reducing that budget by 40,000. And then Yeah. And then the budget actually stop all of that.
>> Start. Let's start with the money in versus the money out. Any anybody have any questions on the uh revenue side? Um, Peter, do you want me to address the three questions you emailed? >> Sure. >> Okay. So, the first question was what we
committed for motor vehicles for FY26. We committed $1,378,000 and then we're estimating for $1,400,000 for FY27. So we estimate slightly over the commitment because there are still some older accounts receivables that are
being paid on. The next was the earnings on investment. Um so it's on this document. It's only posted July through January third page. >> So with that we're averaging
about 15,000 a month. So, we could increase next year's estimate by an additional 20,000. Um, I talked that over with Ralph. >> So, if we needed to, I'd feel comfortable increasing that a little
bit. Um, and so it's all preliminary right now and then this will all get finalized leading up to special when we do the tax rate. >> Mhm. >> So, that's I'll have a better picture of where we actually came in for 26, what needs to be adjusted where.
Um and then the other question was the SRO at Dyon. So we're estimating 78,000 is what will be um reimbursed from DR should be about 78,000 and then we're estimating 70,000 on the receipts. So we're just
about right there. >> Okay. They that money that we get from the school resource officer, do we usually put that towards the back to the school budget? >> No, we're just going to the general fund. Okay. They just send us a check.
>> And you said that was about 75 70,000 you're estimating. >> Yes. Thank you. as long as that officer stays at that school because he is higher paid than the other SRO. But for some reason, if there was a personnel change, then we
wouldn't be receiving that much. >> They would get to change it billing rate. >> Yeah. Mhm. Serena, there was a lot of chat about the pilot program revenue and I know you were nice enough to give us some uh you
know background that yeah, there's technically could be a lot more collected but they still haven't paid. Has there been any update on payments from the pilot programs? >> Um so we have three pilot programs. One is only 3,400 another one is 50,000 and another one is 80,000.
>> Yeah. person that is 80,000 has not paid anything and they're due February something and then May 11th. So that company hasn't paid anything and then the other person has paid half. So I'm confident that they'll pay their other half this year, but I don't have no clue
what's happening and they're not the treasur the collector is not getting a response from the person that has not paid. >> And what's the recourse? Um, so the pilot program does the agreement does show interest that needs to be added. >> Mhm.
>> So the collector said he was going to look into it. >> So right now I do have estimated 135, but if we don't receive that money, that estimate is going down. >> Right. So 80,000 is for how long? >> Just for one year. >> They owe 80,000 to this year.
>> Depreciating assets. So this right at the beginning of the pilot program it's at its highest and then and it goes down >> in the beginning before >> right front loaded. >> So I was just curious how long it's been. How long did we let him before they pay?
>> These two new ones are this is their first year. Oh, okay. Yeah, this is their first year paying. >> Okay. So we'll see. So I have no history to say yay or nay if they're good at paying or not. >> Right. So, I'm kind of feeling like no
on the 80. >> How often is it monthly payments or >> quarterly? It's due twice a year. >> February and May. >> Okay. >> So, May is not here yet, but >> No.
>> Yeah. Yeah. >> Questions on that, >> Jake? That give you an answer? >> Yeah, I know. There was just so much chatter before the election about us having additional funds from these programs and when you look at the balance sheet, it's just not correct.
So, I just wanted to make sure I wasn't missing anything, >> which it sounds like I'm not. >> Yeah. When the assessor was doing the tax rate for 25, she was inquiring about these new ones. I mean, sorry, the tax rate for 26. She was inquiring about
these and her state representative said that there was a law change and the two new ones are not being captured in new growth the way that the old ones are, that those two new ones have to be captured on our local receipts.
So, that's how we're changing it for 27 cuz when we initially did the budget for 26, those were not counted as um estimated receipts, which I'm glad we didn't because one of them's not even paying, >> right? >> The old ones used to go into new growth.
>> Yes. And they are continuing to be captured within new growth. >> So, is that as they decline, that's going to be a portion of the new growth decline? So we estimate new growth conservatively. Yep.
>> Anybody any questions on revenue? Move on to So, normally we kind of go down. We start right at the beginning and we we go I want to do this a little bit backwards but I >> Jake in case you didn't hear that Serena
said oh >> at least at least for the beginning because I figured we can hit hit that group assurance and some of those and then shoot back to the beginning. Do >> you want to start in the 900s? >> Yes, just start 900s.
Uh, actually if you want to start at 710, start at 710. Thank you. >> Anybody any questions on on debt service? That's the police station. >> What's the W pat? No, I'll say that's
the title five. The betterments. Where are we at on this note? The police station. How far into it are we? >> Station takes by 2038. >> Yes. >> Through FY38. >> Okay.
>> I said about 17 times in the past. >> Questioning. So, does this share the last payment on the high school roof? the high school roof? >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> And there's the middle. >> And there's the middle. >> Yeah. Middle. Yeah. 32 31 31. >> Yeah. Middle. Yeah. 32 31 31.
>> Any other questions on debt service? >> Any other questions on debt service? >> No. >> No. >> No. Make a motion. >> No. Make a motion. So, does this share the last payment on Right. >> I make a motion we accept the debt service as uh presented before us.
>> Second. >> All in favor? >> I I >> Sue Peter. I >> I >> I Jake >> I. >> Thank you. All right. 911 retirement and pension. >> This is a known number and it's due
first week of July. >> Yes. And the 5% inquiry 5.43 is standard increase. So >> yeah, that's what the county tells us. >> Okay, >> the bill. >> They tell us. >> Yeah,
>> we have a lot of that. Any questions on pension? >> No. >> No. >> I make a motion we vote to accept the retirement and pension contributions as presented. >> Second. >> All in favor? Tom.
>> I. >> Yes. S. Yes. >> Gary. I >> I >> Doug I >> I >> I'm going to group uh 915 916 919 and 920 on the assumption where those are
easy ones. Any questions on any of those? I make a motion. We vote to accept departments 9:14, 9:15. >> 9:15. >> Start at 9:15. Sorry. >> Oh, sorry.
That we uh vote to accept departments 9:15, 916, and 919. >> 920 >> and 920 as presented. >> Second. All in favor? I >> I >> I >> I I I >> I
>> Okay, might as well do 945. >> Can I ask a question about that? Did we ever get the final numbers? >> No, we haven't got the final numbers back yet. >> They expecting them >> not to be higher than that. No, that's kind of like the range we're looking at.
So that four and a half% range >> and we're staying with our same carriers. >> Okay. >> Any questions on the insurance? >> I make a motion we vote to um accept department 945 as presented.
>> Second. Tom I Sue I >> Peter I Doug I >> Jake >> Jake I >> thank you. All right let's hit 914. >> Why is it tabled on the B
recommendation? Are they >> they they tabled it because um in that calculation does not include uh the um the libraries portion of it the reduction from the library. So they did not vote on the libraries budget. So um
so they decided not to at that point not vote uh make no recommendations at that time like two weeks ago on on the group health insurance. >> Is there any reason that we wouldn't pull that out and put that to >> no library? No. There's no there's no
reason I mean should we do it? >> Well I just didn't know what was happening with library. I didn't want to start changing numbers >> cuz then I didn't want it to get lost and then be underfunded. >> Yeah. So, we just wanted a finalization on that. So, >> so we're going to take out the
>> 34. >> 34. >> Got it. >> 48. Is that the only adjustment you're looking to make there? >> Probably more, but let's start with that number is >> 1,541,47360. 154147360.
>> Yes. >> Okay. So, I had reached out to Paul as well. Uh this this line does end up being one of the larger free cash generators of the last I don't know as many years as I've been watching it. Uh
two three 100,000 in general. >> Money generator. the free cash generator. Yeah. >> Also transfers. >> Yeah. Yeah. >> So Paul said that he's comfortable with
40. He just have to note to me that his buffer was 166,000. Can he explain that represents four? >> Is that I think he says four to five. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. Is about 2100 a month when you
>> family both family single the average. So towns portion 1620 the town has 57ish I actually had in my on my notes the number I came up with is 66
>> to deduct. >> Yeah. Make Paul nervous. >> So that makes him more nervous than Paul. Let's be honest here. Um, >> and is does that include the cuts that are foreseen?
>> Uh, no. I don't think so. I don't think that these these numbers take into account the people that are on the plan right now. So, they don't take into account any change in force. >> Okay. >> Just sort of a a general statement with
that. Although um we're reducing uh positions fortunately we're through attrition we may not be reducing personnel. >> Okay. So they would be keeping what they have. Yeah. Their insurance. >> Okay.
>> Number of plans will change. >> Probably not. Yeah. >> Okay. >> We did make a lot of budgetary cuts in FY27. So I would just be cautious cutting too much because then I don't want to run into an appropriation deficit at the end of the year and then not have anywhere to do end of year
transfers or you know the finance community reserves don't have an increase either to take account for >> yeah I think >> the unexpected things that would happen normally even without cutting budgets those type of things >> as the committee remembers one of the department heads came before you and
really cut it close to the close to the bone and Um, and I believe the number still holds true that this number, our general budget, our general government budget is 2% less than uh than fiscal
year 26 and we're pretty tight as it is. So, >> my thought actually was not to cut this and just Yeah. Yeah. >> Anyone else have any thoughts?
Not really. You know your experience more than anything what we should be budgeting you with the come and go of employment and and the situation in all the departments. So I've got to put my faith
in that. you okay with 40? >> Yeah, I think it could it could handle 40. Um cuz I think the people that are just hopefully
shifting are probably already on a family plan. Um and any new hires? You're >> No, but I'm thinking like if somebody leaves that's maybe not on an insurance and then we replace that employee and
then they jump on as a family. >> Correct. >> You know, like >> Yeah. >> could be those shifts >> or somebody that's on a single family cuz there are a lot of younger employees >> present. Yes. >> Present currently.
>> So you're right from the families. Yeah. Younger for utilization. They tend not to be making claims. >> Yeah, >> correct. What was that? I missed it. >> Younger ones tend >> stay healthy. Oh, not putting in claims. >> They're healthier.
>> As we age, things pop up, >> right? Not like me. Yeah. >> Not two surgeries out of the five this week. >> You wouldn't see my bill. kick now 40. >> Yeah, that's that's fine. I I would I
would also caution about going too crazy with it because the reality of the situation is one person being admitted to the hospital is going to destroy any any cushion that we had in there. Um so you just got to be careful with it. I
think so. You want to take another 40 from the budget after the library took what? 31 as well. So, we're taking 70 from that original 1.576 total. >> So, the library portion isn't being taken away. It's just being moved.
>> Right. But I'm saying from the from that line item from from 914. >> Yeah. So, that 40 would bring it to 150147360. Okay. Yeah, that's probably fine. To your point, we have been running
uh couple hundredk a year in margin there. >> Maybe the 60 would be okay. I mean, the problem is, >> yeah, the problem is, like I just said,
you walk into an ER and because of the way that their plan's rated, they're getting hit with the full bills. So, while the employee might pay only a co-ay or anything like that, we know that an ibuprofen cost 1,500 bucks at the hospital, right? Like, it's a joke
what stuff costs nowadays. Um, so you're really just banking on uh oh, one person's not like if one person gets hurt or injured or something happens and it blows the budget like we can't be doing that. I I think 40 is better. I agree with
Peter. >> Motion from anybody of any number >> besides one >> 501 360, right? 151360 473 excuse me 151473 or 473 sorry >> 60 cent >> 60 cent
>> uh I make a motion that we vote to recommend for department number 914 the amount of 1,500147360 >> second uh all in favor Tom I
>> I >> Peter. I >> Ron. I >> Doug. I >> Jake. I >> All right. Now, now we can start back. >> We'll make the world right. >> I'm going to try and group some when I see groups that we can probably get
through together. And if anybody wants to break them up, just let me know. >> Okay. Then I would just be specific on recommendation is being taken cuz sometimes BOS doesn't match administrator. >> Give give everybody a second just to go
through the first page. >> What did we decide to do? We're we're slashing uh the stipens in half again this year. that recognization. >> Yeah, I know we had talked about because
obviously did it didn't pass, right? So, we had said, hey, if it was going to pass, we would keep it static. If we were if it didn't pass, we were going to cut. So, I just wanted to know that. That way, we're just making it even for everybody, right? Any
questions on any of these departments on the first page? >> No. Anybody? >> No. >> Any questions on any on the first page? >> No. So >> I make a motion we vote to authorize
department 113 114 122 and department 124 as presented to us >> by the same town administrator and board select the same. So >> oh correct >> doesn't matter. Yeah presented by the town administrator
since he's here. Okay, thank you. >> Second. All in favor? I >> I >> I >> I >> I >> I >> H2 Are we doing are we doing 55 or 50k for the reserve fund? >> Reserve fund.
>> Yeah. >> Ralph, why did you suggest 5,000 more? >> That's what it used to be. >> Ah, that's because Yeah, because of the finance committee said, "Can we have five?" I asked for old deal >> the um the um just uh the thought process with the selectman was at the
time they were looking to I think similar to the thought process you're going to find some money and put it into other uh other portions of the budget. Uh I think particularly they were um quite concerned with the with the maintenance
budget of the fire department. So I think you would you'll as you go through it you'll see the in where you sort decreases that's where the increases. Okay. Um just to make sure your salary is your should be not it's
been adjusted >> on the Yeah. On the BS Rex and the town admin Rex. >> Okay. 2%. Any questions on any of these?
>> That's 91.57% decrease that says salary at senior clerk. >> Uh can we have a number? Yeah. Which department? >> Uh 5116. >> 5116. Talent and >> in what department? >> The board of assessors.
>> Town collectives 14. >> Oh, no. We're not on page two. That's page three. >> Fin reserve county assessor. >> I had to print them double-sided. Yeah. So, we're going to go with a 55 or 50. >> I'm for the 55. If uh it works for the
budget, that's fine. Yeah, I'm agnostic. I don't realistically 5K either way is not going to make or break. >> Do you want to hold that one till the end?
>> No. >> No. >> I just want to know if we need to if we're going to do a motion to based on the town admin recommendation or the board of selectman recommendation. Right. To make it easy. >> That's the only difference on this page right now. >> Yeah. >> Right. Exactly. Um, I'm I'm not opposed to you going
with a BOS recommendation if again if it's your intent to put it into another line item somewhere along, >> but that won't be presented to us on another line. by well you almost like we have 5,000
>> so use it >> so looks good >> looks like yeah it looks like the the boss put it in >> the fire department budget >> that's pretty much where I thought the health insurance would go
Yeah, >> either way is fine with me. >> The reserve fund works that should there be a problem with anyone's budget or they need a special funding. That's what it's for, right? >> Mhm. >> It comes and we can approve it. >> Let's do it then. If they need more money, >> I like that.
>> I mean, listen, this way it's in a fund where it can have a little bit more mobility if needed. You saying Ralph's? >> I am saying Ralph's town administrator.
>> Okay. Should uh can I start with the ones we don't have a problem with? >> We're just going to go with the recommendations. I uh propose that we accept departments 131,
135, and 141 as presented with the town administrator's recommendations and the board of selections recommendations. >> I do have a second. Yeah, Jake. I >> I I I >> I I Okay.
>> Okay. >> I make a motion that we recommend for department 132 the amount of $55,000 as recommended by the town administrator. >> Second. >> Second. >> All in favor? I >> I >> I >> I >> I
>> I page. >> Right now you on this one. >> Yeah. This is this is one of the eliminated positions, right? >> Yeah. >> Yes, >> that's what that is. >> Yeah. And then because it was split between
treasurer and town collector. >> Yeah, it's it's split actually that position split between treasurer collector and and uh town clerk. >> Oh yeah, town clerk too, right? >> Looks like there's agreement between a third a third a third basically
give or take. Give some it's like 40 4010, right? 40 40. So I'm not a finance committee. Uh, I guess I mean I I can make a motion to uh recommend for department 145,46
and 151 uh the amounts recommended in the town administrator's recommendation budget. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I >> I >> I >> I >> I may have been wrong. >> I may have been wrong.
How long at the top? >> Yeah. 155 at the top. Um, Department 158 tax title foreclosure. Um, Ralph, do you see more than what the board of selectman is
seeing? I mean the difference >> uh you know so that that original number came do right that original uh number came from Paul >> and then I think he was comfortable with reduction 4500 >> okay he doesn't think there's going to be a lot of fore
>> not to get >> well it's tax title it's not for yeah >> and he is comfortable with that 4500 >> because he hasn't done it in >> a year or two >> if That's what he said.
>> If the pilot agreement doesn't pay, does does that go to >> it's all general fund? Yeah. >> To tax title. >> What do you mean to tax title? It's it's just a general fund revenue. >> We need tax.
>> You got to take action after. >> Where does he take action from? >> Oh, I see. if they don't pay and they need to move that into tax title on a personal property. Um, yeah, that would probably fall within that category. I think they have
to be delinquent a full year. >> Oh, yeah. I'm not sure. >> It might be more of a next year. >> It could. Yeah, probably a 28 thing if you needed to do that. >> Okay. >> Right. Because February would be the first full year. um elections. >> Yeah.
>> Uh elections were uh the selectment tabled it because they um the this election number includes um a special uh a special election in case um in all likelihood we're going to
do uh a debt exclusion for the school, >> the elementary school. Yeah. So, the selectman were hoping that we could change the bylaw so we could shift around uh you know, move the general election and put the further down uh
further down the calendar so we could get so we could get both elections so we just have one election instead of the two. But I think the likelihood of that happening is is is very small for a bylaw for that bylaw change. the the town clerk is uh
>> is uh is opposed to it's just it's just going to be more problematic than it's worth. >> Right. >> But by having one election, we would go back to what the 25 number the 20 25.
>> No, there's a there are no uh >> yes >> the 2. >> What? >> Right. because we have a state election included in there in a primary. There there's a lot of elections. >> It's there was three this year. There was three this year plus
>> plus the one one potentially for the special, right? So then that would make it four. >> Plus the fourth one. Yeah. >> Right. Yeah. >> And we can't shorten the voting day. >> No, it's all state regulated. >> Yeah.
So, I guess the question is, do we just do we vote on the town admin recommendations assuming that there's not going to be a bylaw change? I mean, if we don't use it, it goes back into general fund free
cash anyways, right? >> Yes. You're fine. I can Give up 155, 158, 161. No changes on those. Oh, except for >> we got to decide.
>> Take the board of select run 1558 161. >> Yes. Yeah. Okay. >> I make a motion. We vote to accept um the amounts provided recommended by the board of selectment for department
155, 158, and 161 as presented. >> Second. All in favor? I >> I >> I'll let you get settled first. I >> I I jig I >> Are you There's a whole new set that you
probably need to look at. if you have any questions on yours. That's what I've got. >> Okay. >> I apologize for being late. I just got in from New Hampshire. >> I was looking for you on Zoom.
>> Oh, I couldn't get it to work and I'm My husband's like, I'll just take you over there. I'm like, okay, perfect. >> We're on page four. I'm doublesided. Perfect. Thank you. So, do we want to run with um Ralph's
recommendations for 162 then? >> I think we have to be prepare be prepared for all the elections. >> Wait a minute. I I don't think Did you I don't think we finished the last one. >> He was waiting for the eyes. >> Correct. >> Tracy, you want to vote on that last one?
>> I got it. >> Sorry. So, 162. >> 162. >> Okay. I make a motion we vote to accept the amount recommended by the town administrator of
$50,94 for department 162 elections >> second. >> All in favor? Tracy. >> Hi. >> I >> I >> I >> I
>> Tracy, we have we're doing uh the voice votes because of because of Jake, not because of Jake and >> that's the real reason she came in. Jake, >> that's I feel that's fine. That's fine. I did six I did six hours of driving today to and from New York. So, it was
not a fun not a fun time. >> I just have a note on conservation. >> Okay. >> Their department request is not printed on here, but they did have an additional request for $500 for gas and fuel.
>> So, when we left last time, >> yeah, >> they that was I know that was a big color. >> I think it's still a big thing, >> but they officially voted on it, so I have to report it. >> Okay. So, Not recommended >> because they're sharing the tank, they're sharing the car,
>> right? They're sharing the the hybrid car >> and it's like who's filling it, who's tracking it. >> Do you have in that situation with the three departments sharing it? Do you have a mileage log, >> a mileage? No, I don't get in that's the
departments need to figure that out themselves. >> All that. No, thank you. Um cuz right now it you know when it is when other people were using that um say like I think a couple times it was split
between like building and veterans >> they would track it themselves. So when it came to my department it would already say this much to veterans you know the remainder to building >> they did easily. >> Yeah. And >> these three departments >> well I think once there's a full-time building commissioner I don't know how much that vehicle is really going to be
available for >> the other two >> everybody else to be using it. I think right now you know minimal for the veterans and and for the most part we made the suggestion to to conservation. They weren't using it uh for the longest time, but we made a suggestion that
there was an incident uh where where the conservation agent felt threatened and we said that it's probably better for you to show up in a town vehicle than your personal vehicle. So, right, >> I don't think she's used the town vehicle yet. So, >> oh,
>> because I would imagine conservation, she must have her own equipment and clothing in her car. >> Rather than have changing it back and forth. >> Um, yeah. I mean, I that car pretty much
sits in the same spot, you know, because we haven't had a a building commissioner in a few months. So, >> um, how close are we getting? >> Very, very close. Um, we have a candidate. We just uh May 13th at the May 13th selectman's uh meeting. It's
just finalizing if all goes around May 18th. >> Then I would deny the extra $500. >> Well, I was just going to say if she's really not using the car and the car's just sitting there, why do we need $500 in gas? >> Anybody else have thoughts on that?
Yeah. It just sounded like that was I think I should >> Right. Eating it out. >> Yeah. Yeah. Any questions on any? >> I don't have any others. No. >> I make a motion we vote to accept for
departments 163, 171, 174, and 175. The >> board of selectment town administrators recommendations. >> Town administrators >> different table. The town administrator's
recommendations as presented. >> Tracy >> I >> I >> I >> I did um that carry >> 175. No motion >> on 174. No motion.
>> Okay. Okay. >> The one above that >> there was nothing because there's nothing there. >> No motion if the conservation commission didn't submitted >> trails committee. >> Oh no. And the and the jails. Yeah. Yeah.
difference on the TDIC >> on the TDI >> economic night economic. Yeah. Was the 500 there for a specific portion of their budget or >> they um they didn't articulate the use
of the additional $500. They're hoping they're they're becoming more active the D economic uh initiative committee. So, so they were hoping to use that, you know, $900 to promote uh the whole $900 to use promotion for the town. Um they
really haven't used last year's $900. So, um so this election decided to reduce the budget by 500. I can see that where we're trying to be conservative. Although I don't Do they do more of their meetings in the
spring or >> is that why they really haven't >> No, no, it's it's Yeah, they they they're pretty consistent with their meetings. They >> I think they look to do flyers or something, >> right? He had mentioned that at the meeting when when they came. >> Yeah. So So we have not
>> I haven't seen I know, you know, Mr. Higgins does a very good job. He attends a lot of meetings. uh he attends the the Chamber of Commerce meetings and >> you know he's pretty >> he's trying to be pro I I think he's being proactive committee. Yeah.
>> Yes. >> But but I I don't think um at at this stage they really have they formulated a um um sort of a working plan on on how they want to execute. So >> yes,
it's a tough market bringing business here to Don. >> It is. Yeah. >> Um, so that's a big difference. $500 between both recommendations.
Do we want to split it? >> I I went with the with the department um recommendation that they wanted $900. So, >> okay. >> You know, sometimes I you know, it's $900, you know, >> right? And again, if it's not used, it's
basically >> Yeah. >> What does anybody else think? >> Any other questions on that thoughts? >> Um, I mean, I thought he I thought I remember them saying that they had usage
for the funds coming up this year even though they didn't last year. >> I think that was going to be my question. Jake just took it. It's, you know, do they have a specific for the money that could back up? >> And they may be using the 900 we gave them last year because they haven't
spent that yet. >> Yeah. >> He did. He rattled off a lot of stuff that they were going to do this year. >> They don't It's remaining in the budget. >> So it's this year's you mean this year's
>> as of 2026. >> Right. >> They have not used any. >> Right. >> Right. But last year's money is not available. >> No, no, no. I'm just number. >> Okay. I make a motion that we vote to accept the town administrator's
recommendations for department 176, 189, 192, and 195. >> Second >> as presented. >> All in favor? Tracy. Tracy I
>> I >> Peter I >> I >> Doug I >> Jake I >> general government. >> All right. The police department has some changes. The town administrator's recommendations. It's like bold and
italicized. Mhm. >> Um I was finally able to confirm the chief's salary, the deputy chief's salary, and the school resource officer's salary. So the town administrator's recommendations are the
accurate numbers. My biggie, why does the chief get a 8.56%. Um, so the chief is getting his bachelor's degree and his contract says 10%. And the deputy chief is getting his associates, so five.
>> Think is it 10 for bachelors? >> No, I think >> it's not 20, is it? No, >> I thought it's 10 for associates, 20 for a bachelor. >> Is it? It could be 20 for a bachelor's. I let me >> 20% increase in their salary from then
on out or a one year. >> No, it's based it's it's into their um hourly rate, >> right? >> So, it gets worked into the hourly rate and then the cola is on top of that every year. >> So, wait, it it's just a one time
inflate for achieving the goal and then after that it's just the cola. Correct. >> No, it brings it up. That's all base up. That's all. >> Associates is 10%. Yeah. So, bachelors is 20.
>> Yeah. >> But he didn't ask for the 20. He just asked for what? The eight. >> They don't get that 20% every year. That 20% the one the big bump. >> But then that big bump becomes their base salary. Yes. >> So,
>> wasn't that 20% every year? It's just >> No, no, no. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. I I would go back to being a police officer that >> So, I have to say, you know, >> that's quite a bit of a race. It seems to me that
in looking over numbers that a lot of the departments made cuts, a lot of departments were forced to make cuts, but this seems to be the only department that does it. And I don't understand that. I don't understand why we're not, you know, it's
like I wrote in my notes to Peter in going through this. A lot of departments their overtime was taken away and whatnot, but you have an administrative assistant who is getting her full overtime. As far as I'm concerned, it should be like,
"I'm sorry, you can't have it this year. Work for 35 hours." And the overtime that they spend, I get it. You can't avoid overtime, but even if he could cut this by just 15% or
more, you're talking minimum $40,000 reduction. There's got to be You have three people here that are salaried. Could they not help fill in where they're a little short in creating all this extra overtime? I know it's not
something anybody likes to do, but I myself even have to do it at time as a salaried person. So, I guess, you know, I'll be the bad guy and address the elephant in the room, you know, because when you look at it year over
year, yes, budgets go up, expenses go up, salaries go up, all of that goes up, but the only thing I saw here was just shifting numbers around. Where are the where is the help to cut the budget back?
>> Cuz let's face it, this is one of the biggest budgets. Mhm. >> So where where is it? How much of the budget is contractual and how much of it is actually subject to our ability to to suggest cuts.
>> Payroll side of it's 90%. personnel side >> and and it's contractual. >> Yeah. >> Yes. >> Yep. >> Yeah. >> And I don't want to trip over a $100 bill to pick up a nickel here, but
what's the $250 for travel for? >> Which line? >> Um I'm sorry. Line 5580 towards the bottom. >> 5710. >> Oh, 5710. Yes. Sorry. 57 cent. So it looks like they were given that but they
didn't use it but they're going to and I mean I I mean not the pennies but right it's things like that. My question is what's the difference between we've got 5151 benefits tuition allowance and then
we've got 5153 benefits course allowance and then we've got 5157 benefits chief and deputy professional development. So, so the 5157 is contractual. They each have 5,000 in their contract for education. >> Mhm.
>> The chief and the deputy chief. >> Yes. >> And the course and tuition are for your officers. >> Yeah. And how is one different from the other? I guess. >> I don't know that specifically. >> I'm going to assume course might be like
firearms and things along those lines as opposed to That's a class. >> Yeah. >> But just an assumption >> with a university or whatever. Yeah. >> And these these tuition allowances aren't anything like a CE where you do a
continuing education where hey, if you achieve this and we pay for it, then we're going to give you a pay increase. It's not anything like that. It's just maybe more about you have to take this firearms training every year. this or that or their >> 5157 I would say is probably what paid
for the associates degree and the bachelor's degree. >> Oh yeah, that's the whole thing. We pay for the education. We give them a a raise. >> A raise on top of it. Uh >> I think at one point at some point it's like if you want to improve yourself and yes we want you and you want a better
wage you invest in yourself and you pay for it. I asked Peter a while ago how our police budget compared to other towns. And I think you said that um you referred me to a website I could go and look at and compare and you said it was pretty much in line with other towns. I just I mean
I don't mean to pick up on the police. I want a robust police force in Don. I asked the chief why we had a detective because I'm a little bit I just I'm I'm don't understand why we have a detective in on our force. And he said that we
have a lot of um >> team crime >> juvenile delinquency and identity theft. That's why we have a detective. Ah, I mean really >> is that an official >> That's why that's why I asked for the
police that's why I asked for the police report. >> Well, is it? >> Yes. And and and that was always published in the town report. I think the basically a summary of the calls >> and what they do. >> That wasn't published in the last report. >> Report wasn't right. >> Yeah. So, I asked and actually I should
follow up with uh Chief Nichols because he said he would supply it and I haven't seen it. And again, I don't mean to pick, but you know, we're quibbling over $500 here and $100 there. This town needs to do two things. We need to get some business in town to
generate some revenue. And we need to look at the big budgets, the school, public safeties. Um, you know, I know that the fire department their um their job is increased because there are more elderly people in town
and and you could see the numbers, you know, more calls and everything. But yeah, I went to the police station one day and there's 11 cruisers sitting in the parking lot. I just I'm scratching my head. I'm, you know, and again, I'm all for robust police force. I'm not
picking on the detective or anything. I just think that this is an area where we can look at and I think maybe need to step back. You know, I asked about the Taho. We now have uh Chevy Taho as vehicles. You know, we used to have Ford Explorers. I just bought a new vehicle.
I didn't buy the Escalade. I got the smaller model because that's what was in my budget. Yes. >> You know, and I think that >> every department head needs to act like it's their money. Well, I think the
other thing too is is he also responsible for the communications department, the 215? >> Yes. >> Okay. So, in looking just briefly at theirs, um >> there's another change on that too.
>> Yeah. Why is there no coal crease in there? And also the fire chief has no coal increase as well. >> So, I have an adjustment in there as well. Things just came in after the fact. Yeah. >> And the chief's salary is all accounted
for in the police. We're not splitting his salary and dispatch like it was a few years ago. >> Okay. So, I think the other question too is since I'm new and green, when it comes time to um contractual
negotiations, who represents the town in those negotiations? Is that you, Ralph? >> Uh yes. The short answer is me and uh for the most part I have a selectman with with me.
>> Okay. >> There is a selectman in each assigned to each union for negotiations. >> Motion. I make a motion that 210 uh is accepted as the town
administrator's recommendation. Second, >> Tracy. Reluctantly, I'll say I >> I >> I >> I >> I
>> But they better not ask for another car this year. >> They asked for two. >> You're right. >> Is is there any reason why there can't be u during these negotiations somebody else? somebody from the
um let's say our group pull up >> yeah just as a sit in and even listen you don't have to say anything >> because I would like to know how they go you know I mean I'm sure of course
everybody would but still then maybe that's a way that we can you know give advice or help out or I don't if there's if it's such a big thing right now for us, it seems like it's an important thing for us to get more
information to make a better decision. >> Well, the I from what I'm hearing is questions have been asked and the material just hasn't been brought forward. >> Okay. >> I didn't mean to ask you tell if you had heard, but no. Yeah. No. >> And I haven't followed up either, but
>> that's something that the uh board of selectments need to um push. It's their job. So I would hope that they would do that kind of you know I mean is >> it would behoo them.
>> Is it one selectman is in charge of like chiefs one is in charge of clerical one is in charge of or is it a to department? It's who's ever available at the time. >> Yeah. Yeah. And I I just want to say that
I'm surprised that Chief Nichols didn't get you that information cuz he's usually pretty good and on top of it. So So I can follow up. >> I don't think it's personal. I think it's a >> No, no, no. >> I mean, as far as >> Yeah. Yeah. I didn't I I I'm not saying it is. I'm just saying I'm just surprised because he's usually
>> right. I I don't I don't think we hold it to any because it's really in ways none of their decision. They go along with what's proposed and passed and that's it. >> I just think that um maybe there needs
to be more emphasis either from the finance committee or the boss and and go from there. Well, I think the other thing too is, you know, we have to start looking ahead a little bit more >> because now with the no vote, >> next year is going to be
>> different >> less fun than this year. >> Yeah. And I absolutely >> I think a serious conversation needs to be had that listen, >> you think you're short on officers now. There may come a point where it's going
to be worse. >> And and that needs to be a serious conversation with some heads of department that >> we're going to be looking at some tough times and to figure out some things to make it slowable. Mhm. >> I mean, look at the I was say, look at
the fire. I mean, >> you know, look at the poor fire department. >> Yeah. >> You know, they're running three men instead of fourman shifts. They're, you know, they're down they're down a full shift rotation. >> They they just got a car taken off the road because of an accident. Like,
>> you know, not to be that guy, but I I'd rather have them have the money so that they could drive safe vehicles around as it's necessary, you know? and they have a firehouse falling apart around them. >> Correct. >> You know, I mean, yeah, I think it's it's more based on maybe just a little
more effort with everybody. That's all, >> you know. I'm not going to I'm going to go with that. >> No, it's a good point though bringing it up of looking forward because with public safety is next. It's on the ch it's going to have to be on the chopping block. There's nothing we're
going to There's literally nothing we can do about it now, right? unless I do a debt override. But yeah, that's going to go well and I'm sure that's I'm sure that'll pass. Um so like you know, yeah, it's a good point.
>> Funny enough, I think it's what everybody's been asking um for a while anyways. It's just to make that a little extra. >> Well, it's the same thing with the schools, right? like we asked for meetings with the school committee to understand how they're doing their negotiations with the teachers unions
and stuff like that. We asked for the same thing and and it sounds like maybe next year we'll get that which is good because when we look at like a school budget and everybody's asking for 6 to 8% and it's like well no the town's getting cut at and and you're you're asking for more like no.
So it's it's the same it's we're we're being equal I guess is all I want to say. We're not picking on one department. We're we're trying to actually treat them equally, which they're not being treated. They were not they're not being treated equally right now. >> Well, and I think Ron makes a valid point. I mean, we as a group come
together in the spring with numbers and then it's like, okay, make it work. But, you know, I think we need to be a part of the process before we get to the numbers. We need to sit down with these departments. We need to
have data. We need to be fully informed so that we >> can make the right cuts if we have to and without hurting any one department in particular and help these people in ways to
>> make a better budget for themselves in the long run. So >> I will say now that all the meetings are televised and we can see them on channel 95 or YouTube. uh it's an easier way because we're all busy with daily lives
and to say we're not going to start going to other meetings for these other committees. I mean at least with the um video you can do it in your spare time still stay up to date and a breast of what's going on with the committee that you're interested in or
>> yeah possibly formulate questions in real time >> right >> and get answers uh before we are coming here and then all the information is unloaded all at once and it's so hard to pinpoint specific questions relevant >> right >> questions right
>> to Jake's point he talks about the um education department that we got $750,000 back from them after they came to us last year with a bigger budget. They come to us this year with a bigger budget and we still are going to have
about 700,000 coming back from the um the feasibility study. >> So >> 660 and change >> 616 >> 60 that's coming back from the state. >> Yeah. So we should have those dollars >> coming back. What is that? >> From the state. That's the portion the
state is giving us back. >> They're gonna give it back. But we gave them a million 375. >> Well, we had to pay that to prove that we were actually interested before they are willing to give us >> taxpayer money. >> But that will be available when the 660 comes back.
>> Well, not available in free cash. >> That's not going to close out to free cash. It's going to stay in the MSB Don Elementary fund >> building fund. building fund until we figure out what's happening with that. >> It came from our free cash. >> It came from our capital
>> capitalization. >> Stabilization. Yeah. >> It doesn't go back to capital stabilization. >> We're just not at that point yet. That could be down the line if we just have to see the whole project through and then what the outcome is going to be and then decide how to use those funds.
>> Is that money coming back this year? Um, so I just put in the first reimbursement of $89,000. So I'm not sure how quickly they're paying on them yet. >> I sent it um the 4th. The 6th 46 I sent it. >> And the 750, where does that sit?
>> So if they give us that money before June 30th, um, then that will close out to this year as free cash. >> It's going to be applied to the uh to the June 1st uh assessment. there's going to reduce the assessment. to reduce the assessment. >> So then it'll just close out.
>> So then it'll just close out. >> Majority of that 2014 2015 IRS penalty. >> Majority of that 2014 2015 IRS penalty. >> Yes. >> Yes. >> Multiple penalties >> Multiple penalties that administration was having trouble that administration was having trouble with with >> ACA. >> ACA. They didn't file the health insurance They didn't file the health insurance
forms correctly. So they get a forms correctly. So they get a >> $400,000 penalty. >> $400,000 penalty. >> And that happened right about during the >> And that happened right about during the change in administrators. there's going change in administrators. So luckily we were able to get that. >> Yeah. >> So uh 215 communications.
Uh I see there's an edit for the salary operators full-time. That's the finalized contract. So that's the real number. Serena. >> Yeah. So, the full-time operators, we had initially reduced it by 20,000 for grant funds, but it's come to light that those grant funds are actually a
reimbursement and not upfront money, and they're trying to catch up on applying for grants and receiving and being awarded the grants. So, I was a little hesitant to actually reduce that for next year cuz it's not
guaranteed at this point. So, I put it back to um their actual salary. >> What is the grant funding for? >> It depends what they apply for. The majority of it can be used for salary and then these past two years they've
requested additional like other type of um expenses. Um one of them was a software charge. Um, and then I think they put in some other requests for other other items, but I think the FY26
grant they requested 28,000. So the grant is usually 33,77. So FY26 they designated 28,000 just for salaries, but I'm not sure when they apply for 27 how they're going to break up that
application. >> Okay. When do they typically apply for that? >> So, the last two years they've done it really really late, like February. Um, so the person that's doing it now has um discussed that they're going to try
to apply in July, so they actually have the full fiscal year to use it. >> Mhm. >> Um, but I haven't seen that. >> Okay. >> And when they >> when they apply, they apply for So, they're due in July. They're doing the one they just did in February is for 26.
Yes. So that'll end. They only had February to June to use it >> and they have to use it all in that fiscal year. >> Yes. And then they have to apply to be reimbursed for it as well. >> So the money goes out the door first. We apply for the reimbursement.
>> Get the grant, spend the money, and then ask for the grant that you got >> be paid. >> Yeah. So it's a little it's a little back and forth. >> Okay. So the 448,83327
is the accurate recommendation. >> Operator part-time and that that zero. That's okay. >> Operator part time zero. >> No increase. >> Where is that?
>> Oh, that's Yeah, the part-times they have a separate um salary. So they did not put in to increase those. >> Okay. So did you say this 448 83327 is accurate? Okay. And uh
how can the board of selectmen for um 5105 uh salary operates full-time? Are they looking to reduce one position or how can >> So that is with the 20,000 reduction >> correct
>> for the grant cuz initially we made the recommendation. So they piggy back and agreed with us. But then >> even though the grant money is not here. >> Yeah. Because I thought it was upfront and then since then I've been discussing it with the dispatchers um and realized
it's not upfront money. >> It's a reimbursement. >> Mhm. So since they applied Oh, but this is for 27. >> Okay. >> 27 they won't apply for until maybe July. >> Well, hoping to >> hoping in July. Yeah.
Okay. I'm just saying anticipating we're going to get in the fiscal year and if they are, >> you know, being remiss and how >> wait until March next year then, >> right? So, with that in mind, what do you
recommend? I mean, the 20,000 putting there just in case they're a little bit late with the grant funding. Uh, that's still 20,000 that can be used elsewhere.
I know Ralphie would recommended a full amount. >> Yeah. Yeah. I had recommended the full amount consultation with Serena, we think. And um you know it's it's better to be on the right on the safe side usually. Usually
I know um in an effort uh right the chief in the past and then this year in an effort to sort of reduce it was really pushing uh was really pushing the u the use of the grant money. Mhm. >> But then on the further investigation with Serena, she goes it's it may not
work out as well as we want it to work out. So >> right cuz I guess my question is okay we say we go with your recommendation full funding then they do get the 20,000 in grant money do does the or the reimbursement
does that 20,000 come back to the general fund or no police are going to see communications is going to keep it? Well, yeah. So, when I So, they so we've just given him a $20 B $20,000 bonus. So,
I'll explain it from the beginning. So, when I first hired to this position, they had like 3 years of $33,000 >> that was just sitting in the special revenue funds. So, it looked like that money was
granted up front and then they didn't use it. So I said, "Start using this old grant money before they ask for it back, right? You're already beyond like this expiration date of it." >> So they did and they've been chipping away at it and now we're down to like a
maybe a little bit of money left in 25. Maybe not. And then you know the 26 money you No. Yeah. Because we just filed for reimbursement for 25 and we're going to be filing for the reimbursement for 26. So now realizing
that that's what's actually happening, I could either leave it there the way it's been or once we get reimbursed, close that fund to the general fund. So I haven't quite thought that far ahead of time because in the past they
were just leaving it in the special revenue for the police department to use it. But now with the budget the way that it is, you know, do I leave it there or do I put it back into general fund? >> Yeah.
>> The way it's moving, the town pays the money and then town gets well, I guess communication gets reimbured, but it's reimbursement of town money. >> Correct. >> So, I'm feeling to thinking to close it back out to the general fund. Um, just
kind of waiting to see now because now this is the first year that we've had to ask for like the actual reimbursements in real time, you know? >> Right. >> So, I was going to kind of see make sure that everything we request we actually
get reimbured for that they don't deny something, >> right? cuz there's that that you know the state could say that's not a qualifying expense or whatever or whatever if they decide not to have the grant or not to for it to be 33,000 next
year. I'm really not sure. It's a state grant. >> Well, I almost I don't I if you say >> I know what you're saying, >> right? I mean, I would rather short them now and if at the end of the year,
whatever, they're short on their funding, grant money hasn't been reimbursed or whatever, then we can move it from free cash over. But in this situation, it looks like they're keeping all the money. You know, where we are uh floating it
out on the front end, but when the reimbursement comes through, it's not coming back to free cash. They've been holding in the account. Yes. But you said they weren't using it. So they were still giving us a full budget to pay them when they weren't even using grant money that was available to them.
>> Do you know what I mean? >> Right. >> So that's like this fiscal year is going to change that. If you're sure you can >> I'm just not sure that they're going to get the same amount of grant money next year. >> So there's too much. You are sure that
you can close out that grant funding reimbursement and then have that money go to the general fund. You're sure of that? >> Yes. As long as what we ask for reimbursement does get reimbured, >> whatever. >> Whatever the reimbursement amount is. >> Yeah. >> Okay. I can close.
>> And I will go with your recommendation. >> Great. >> On question on 5240, there's an increase in um >> fire equipment repairs and maintenance. Is there a specific >> Oh, wait. I'm not in the fire department yet. I have other things to change there.
>> Okay. Uh, so just just communications right now. >> Yeah, please. >> Does everybody agree we go with the town administrator's recommendation? >> Yes. >> Serena can close it into free cash.
>> I make a motion that we vote to uh approve or recommend the town administrator's recommendation for department 215 communications. I second >> Tracy. I >> Tom. >> Hi, >> Sue. I
>> Peter. I >> Ron. I >> Doug. I >> Jake. I >> All right. 220. >> Okay. So, the fire department, you have the 72 35964 for his salary.
>> Yes. >> That contract was just um finalized. So, that's that update. >> So, is that why the BOS is different? >> Yes. Yeah. >> Okay. >> And then if you go down to number 5131,
um that number should be 93,51060. And that reflects a 2% increase for the call firefighters. >> 93 >> which we initiated. >> Yeah. >> Missed 916 106. >> Yep. Should be 93 510 60.
What's the new uh personnel? >> Oh, I just did a new bottom line. Okay. >> 85142989. >> And that's just a hard number. That's it is what it is. >> 51. >> Okay. >> 8514291 >> 85142959.
>> Thank you. >> We can't go back to 91667. We got to accept this. It's like a a contract negotiated number >> to what? Which line exactly? >> The one 5131. >> Yeah. >> 5131. They're not
>> No, it's not a contractual number. It's just that everybody, you know, we've given everybody a 2% raise across the board and it was unfortunately it was an oversight at the time when I put it through. So, so hopefully to make that correction.
Um but the BOS did increase >> the >> line 5240 on their end which is not reflected in the selectman in the town administrators. >> So it's about the same if you pull that back to the town
administrative recommendation. >> I'm going to assume they're going to adjust theirs for 5105 and 5131 though. >> I will present that to them next Wednesday. have 85 * 60. So this was 5240 is a line that I did
want to move even more. 5240. >> We used to the chief's line for repairs and maintenance used to be close to 30 and we cut it a few years ago and personally I don't like hearing that I got to decide what what's going to go
out, what's not. But that on him, I would agree. You're talking the fire equipment and repairs and maintenance. >> Yeah. 5240. >> Yep. >> What's going on with the car? Because I feel like if they're riding around those old vehicles doing anything
to that budget, it might be worth increasing it a little bit if they're going to have old vehicles on the road. Right. >> The pick up new fire truck >> 20. You're talking about the Chief's Chief's old car.
>> Yeah. It was 2004. It's still It's still on the road, right? >> Yeah. Right. >> Right. I'm just wondering from his description of what's taking place with that vehicle. I'm wondering if this is an adequate repairs budget if something
happens to it. I mean, I guess he could come to us, right? But >> so would that be 5480? Yeah. or vehicle supplies is more of a >> replacement parts. Um
>> there was an accident repairs and maintenances were >> there was increase right 5240 >> and um an accident with his car. >> Yeah. >> What was the insurance uh cover uh
check on that? Yeah, >> what? >> I haven't seen that. >> It was less than half. He said it was like >> like >> How old was the car? >> 2004. >> No, the four stay >> the newer one. >> It's the newer one. >> Yeah. >> What?
>> Like a 13 or >> I think so. If I remember correctly 13, 14. >> Yeah. >> So that money goes back into free cash or fire department? >> Nope. So the insurance check gets deposited into an insurance revolving
fund and then when we buy the new one we use take money out of there and then >> whenever >> he has to take money out of somewhere else. Yeah. >> Okay. Okay. >> And lease that new one. >> We purchased right >> purchased new one.
>> Purchased. >> The lease was not >> he might need a used >> not an option. Um I I think at the time we we would have more savings by buying not new >> because I think the the lease we're looking at like 5%
on the lease financing charges rough. Did you say vehicle supplies would be >> I think if I remember correctly vehicle supplies are what they have to put into the um you know various fire equipment.
>> Yeah. Radio anything like that. >> Yeah. >> So 5240 would be >> vehicle maintenance and prison. Right. Yeah. What were you >> my my thought was going back to the 30.
>> So Ralph has recommended 16 and a little the board of selectment 20. So if you're saying 30 that's like another four and change from Ralph. >> Let's split it. >> 25.
>> 25. It's more >> more than he's got now. 25. Yeah, we uh we cut 5,000 somewhere. >> Yes. Reserve, right? Well, we cut 40 from
>> back on page one. >> Yeah, that's 45. Um what's the benefit of us giving it to them in their budget or them coming to us and um asking a request from free
cash other than we have a meeting? >> Well, I mean they don't have to wait if they need something done. It gets done quickly where as opposed to we have to go to in front of the finance have to go through a special order manual. Well, we might spend it on something else.
>> Reserve could be spent on something before it gets to that point, >> right? So, the reserve would come before you, but if it could be >> first week of June, >> I hear you. I could do 25. I
>> think that's that's good. Yeah. >> Are you mathing it? So I'm taking out the 16169 and changing that to 25,000. >> Mhm. >> Okay. So it is 860,000 256
and 39. There's 25. Anybody else have any thoughts on that? >> No, I agree with Yeah, we're good with that. >> I make a motion we vote to approve
the amount of $25,000 for department >> uh 220 and then for department 220 our total being $860,256.39. >> All in favor? I >> I >> I >> I I >> I >> I I
>> I >> Okay. So, ambulance is going to have the same adjustment for their part time and half. >> Part time and the chief over here. >> Yes. >> You have a new number. >> 887,000
$6742. >> One more time. I'm sorry. >> 887. >> Yep. >> 674. >> Okay. >> 42. >> Thank you. >> So, a lot of his budget is half and half. So, the vehicle Yeah,
the selectment didn't increase it. >> But the ambulance but the ambulance the ambulance equipment repairs and maintenance can come out of the ambulance fund, >> right? >> Well, >> like if he needs it, he can dip into that. Yes. No. >> At a meeting, not
>> we have to be approved at a town meeting. >> Gotcha. Okay. There's no uh is there a limit uh like above 5,000 they have to go to town meeting and minor changes below >> any transfers? Yeah. So we have budgeted
to transfer 455,000 out of ambulance right now. >> Oh just 400. >> Oh >> yeah we name it. Yeah. Yeah. >> Oh >> that's the 5,000 from it says 455. That's
>> what's that? >> Oh, no. I'm sorry. 455 is free cash. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> The ambulance is also newer. We were just Didn't we just pay off the lease? >> One. So, yeah, one of them one of them is a couple years old
>> and then one we just Yeah, one we just finished paying. I'm less concerned about the ambulance maintenance than I am about the other fire vehicles. But that's just me, I guess. Where is it from? >> Uh
it's mine. Sorry. >> You just understanding how the ambulance works. Um >> they get reimbured by insurance companies. >> Yes. >> So a lot of that is being paid for >> a projected transfer from >> It sits in a separate fund. All right
here. I'm sorry. I'm done. >> And when does that move over to their >> That's only at when we voted at town meetings. >> And how much of their budget do they cover with that? >> Half of one of them. >> Yeah. Generally half of the ambulance.
>> Okay. And in the past when there was an ambulance payment, it would cover the ambulance payment too. Everybody good? >> I make a motion we vote to approve department 231
um in the amount of $887,644742. >> Second. All >> in favor? I >> I >> I >> I >> I might have stepped away. >> I said I sorry I I guess it didn't come through.
>> 41. um comfortable still comfortable with the numbers. >> What's the >> administrator's work? >> Yeah. Demolition. >> Yeah. >> I I mean the only the only difference between the two is the $5,000 which is
the demolition up to eight structures. We haven't demolished um a building in a while. So it was $10,000. So it's sat there for a while. So they I reduced it to five. There's really nothing on the horizon. So
if you want to go with a selectman's number, that's >> I love the 5,000. >> Yeah, >> they also reduce travel. >> Oh, they reduce travel by 500. >> So >> Oh.
>> Oh yeah. >> Oh yeah, they did. >> I'm not to go with them, >> right? Did they reduce it only because we haven't had a building inspector? >> Because a building inspector is traveling.
>> That travel would be out of town, right? >> Oh, yeah. Yeah, that's >> Oh, that's out of travel. >> Okay, I got you. >> And it's Yeah, in their personal vehicle, they take the hybrid then. >> Okay, thank you. So, I'd be happy going with the 250.
>> You have the full 130? >> Yeah, the 130. We'll go with the BOS recommendation. >> That's 241. >> Yep. >> Oh, >> I was doing the two I was doing the 250 individual light. Okay. I make a motion
that we vote to recommend for department 241 the board of selections recommendation of $130,32.73. >> Second. All >> in favor? I I I J I. >> Thank you.
All right, back to some that we can do in group. 242, 243, 244, 245. All the other inspectors. >> Everybody agree? >> That's pretty straightforward. >> 292 is a difference.
>> I make a motion. We vote to recommend for department 242, 243, 244, and 245 the recommendations of the town administrator and board of selectment as presented.
>> Second. All in favor, Tracy? >> I I I thanks Jake. 292. >> So now that we know that the ACL has to stay, right?
>> Yep. So is this uh the cola increase then from the 48 to the 40 48 and change to the 49 and change? >> Yes. >> And the difference in >> subscriptions 5730.
>> Right. And then professional and technical 5302. Um the board are recommending half of what you did. >> Mhm. Um 5131 >> 532
on 292 animal control. >> No, I was I thought you were done. I was asking why. I jumped. >> I was Well, I was just asking why. >> I think it's because she hasn't been using it, >> right? I know that's by the selectment, but you still rem recommended the full amount. Um do you have a problem with us
going with us? >> No. Tracy, you had a question. >> Well, she, you know, we're budgeting the same amount for overtime and she doesn't really use it. So,
>> so that's something new in her contract that if she gets a call on a holiday, it's a 4hour minimum. So, she has >> So, it's built into her contract. >> Calls on a holiday. Yep. >> Okay.
Um, and this has nothing to do with the budget. Just uh just to let you know, we're we're working with Berkeley to do um to make this a shared position. So So we're looking to we would upfront it and they would uh pay us. >> Do they not have an ACL?
>> They do not have an ACL >> then. But I thought Chief Nichols said every town had to have an ACL. >> Well, they >> they have um they have they've been using other people. live in pain and they have well let me let me back up a little bit. They have like a another
part-time person who is like barely barely doing it. So they're looking to share it with us. So we're going to share the position um 70 not 75 I wish 75,000 25 uh it would be $25,000
plus other expenses. So we're working out those we're working out those details. >> I have one question for the animal control officer. Do her calls go into the police station? >> Yeah, the majority. But I think she does receive some. >> Direct. >> Direct. >> Okay.
>> But um I've I brought that up to Nicholls that I need it on the call log for overtime and such. >> Exactly. Okay. >> That's my point. >> Yeah. She does have people that reach out directly to her.
>> Yes. I think she then tells dispatch to get it recorded. I'm not quite sure. Okay. But this partnership we're splitting the 68 or the 67 figure whichever one we recommend.
>> Uh well it's mostly this the salary. So we're splitting. So >> it's not the whole department costs. It's just her salary we would be sharing. >> And as as of yet this it's not a done >> No, you know it's not a done deal yet. We're we're we're working on it. So So
>> let's do it. I make a motion that we vote to recommend for department 292 the amount of $67,184.58 as recommended by the board of selectman. >> Second. In >> favor? >> I
>> I >> I >> I >> I >> I >> I >> just one question on that real I know she's mentioned to us in the past that one of her bigger expenses can be disposal. Mhm.
>> She'd be bringing things back to then they've got their own way of handling. >> Yeah. Especially Yeah. It doesn't include deer strikes and things like Yeah. Yeah. They have their own. >> Yeah. >> Street. >> I make a motion that we vote to
recommend for department 294 the recommended by the town administrator and water selectman $70.70. >> Second. >> All in favor? I >> I >> I >> I >> I >> I
>> Jake, you run for forestry. >> All right. >> So, just a question before we move on. That's like they've got to remove tree limbs and things like that. >> Forestry. Yes. >> For 70 bucks. >> Well, that's it's a one-year stipend under the highway superintendent.
>> Oh, yeah. It goes to the top. >> Okay. Okay. So, he didn't get more. Does he? >> Oh, he's already getting paper in another side. I see. Okay. Cuz I'm like >> I know how to work. >> I had a tree removed. >> That's one tree lift.
>> I made three. >> I was like, how do we do that? >> Uh, emergency preparedness 299. Any questions on that? >> No. >> Nope. >> Need to be prepared. >> Do you need to be prepared?
>> Motion. >> We do. 299. I make a recommendation that we recommend for department 299. >> The amount recommended by town administrator and board is selectment 4,400,000. $4,000. That's
>> $4,000. That was the for all those departments. I'm sad. I said that for nothing. Wow. >> Going to be really >> $4,000 to >> second. >> All in favor? I >> I >> I >> I >> I
>> J. >> I was. >> Yeah. What could you get for >> That's like a zombie apocalypse right there. No kidding. >> Nice children.
>> I make a motion that we vote to recommend for department 300. the motion recommended by the town administrator 16,72,698.78. Did just a question before we get a second. The
they were having their DR was having their meeting the 26th or so. >> That's that's the updated updated. Okay. >> Thank you. >> All right. Second. >> Thank you. Any other questions or
discussion on that before we go on? >> I >> I >> I >> I >> I No. Jake. >> Hi. >> Hi. >> Okay. Everyone should vote how they feel. Yes.
>> Uh 422. Any changes on this? >> No. >> Okay. >> What's the 19.84 on line 5106? Why is that so high? >> I think he um
>> is that for his new employee? >> That was for two new employees. Two new employees. Our recommendation is >> Oh, his original. Oh, yeah. Yeah. >> Oh, that was his original. Oh, okay. >> I I need to There was some confusion in that first that first submission as
well. >> Yeah. >> So, this is this reflects seven seven >> seven people. >> All right. So, these numbers are true. >> Yes. >> That 529 was just for the uh the trash
attendant. >> Where's five? Oh. In case you didn't know, Jake Ralph's making fun of Tracy over here. >> Yeah, I hear it. >> Um, so the 433 is one new employee and 2%.
Or or a contractual. >> Yeah, they can partial increase and they have seven total employees. >> Yes. And then his um line 5154 was highlighted there. So there was um a
drop in that. >> It looks like a bunch of these. Or is it just that the field looks like it's >> Oh, is it the square? >> Yeah. >> Yeah. So that was initially to just show the differences between the department request and the town administrator's request. It had come up in a meeting a
couple years ago. So I just try to box it so you can see. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Easier where those differences are. >> But that was probably reduced to the seven employees instead of eight. And then where is
>> I'm thinking the same thing on the equipment repairs >> because he's he's already he's already in the negative >> and the year's not even over yet. >> Mhm. >> I mean, all of his equipment is falling apart and it's only going to get worse.
He's getting $5,000 more. >> Let's see. How many can you split 5,000? >> Um, highway. when he needs something an emergency. Does that does that go behind before town meeting or >> usually it's a truck or something. So
that's a big >> money item. >> Does it have to be in front of a town meeting or because I mean >> Well, right. It depends. But it's but if if we have a budget for it or if we have like a special article for it. So
>> no, but say an emergency comes in and he needs a vehicle or whatever, are we able to do it outside of town meeting >> to vote the funding for him? >> Yeah. Unless it it's not available in yours. No. >> Yeah. Then we would need a town meeting. Yeah. Okay.
So the budget is for 42 it for repairs. >> Yeah. And he's already he's already in the negative 20. But like >> out of the 37. >> Yeah.
>> So what are you thinking? >> I don't know. I think I'm thinking he's going to be in the negative next year, too. So, I mean, you know, unfortunately, it is what it is. >> So, we do vote these um you know, as bottom line budgets. So, if he has the
money available in another line to cover, >> you can use that. >> Yeah. So, we basically look at like the very bottom and it's at 70%. >> Yeah. >> So, even though some are, you know, overexpensed, the ones that are under, >> he's still within. Yeah. >> Yeah. Okay.
>> Cuz at the end of March, it should be 75% um spent. >> Okay. >> So, he's got too much money. >> Well, he's >> All right. So then I make a motion for department 422
to recommend both the town administrator and the BOS of761,000735. >> Second. >> All in favor? I >> I >> I >> the easiest line of the night.
So nice. >> No discussion. Just get a motion. >> Make a motion for department 423 recommending both town administrator MOS for $50,000. Second.
>> All in favor? >> I >> I I >> I >> I >> Jake >> I >> That wasn't heal when all that snow fell. How much did we actually >> How much did we actually spend?
>> We're projecting 350. >> So it did be spent 400. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> A lot. >> Yeah. >> Berkeley Bridge. We good? >> Any questions on Berkeley Bridge? So just know they took out um the repair and maintenance.
>> Yeah, >> they took it out completely. >> They uh board of selectment took it out of their recommendation. >> And out of the 800, we're 91% through. >> Say that again. >> Out of the 800 for this year
>> for the energy. >> Yeah. >> 91%. you know, you find leaving 250 in for something happens. >> They said it's like a light fixture robe. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. That's concerned about those lights, how they're um specialty lights.
>> And last year it was the uh >> power box or whatever. >> That was near the Yagi. The Agie, right? >> Yeah. >> Okay. I make a motion we vote to recommend for department 429 the amount of
Oh, of recommended by the board of uh town administrator of $1,450. >> Second. All in favor? >> I >> I >> I >> I >> I >> I >> 132. Same thing here. just uh
>> I agree >> adjusting the contracts >> one instead of two in the contract. >> Mhm. >> He does an 8w week split. >> So the salary as a whole and then eight weeks are allocated to storm water and
the remainder is 422. >> Okay. I make a motion. We vote to recommend for department 432 the amount of $213 $213,850.84
as recommended by both the town administrator and board of selection. >> Second. >> All in favor? I >> I >> I >> I >> I >> to 4334 >> uh 433 waste collection. Board of selectment reduce the well
testing at 5,000. >> Why? >> Yeah. What is that? >> Yeah. >> Dump. >> I think so. At the transfer station here. >> There's a well there.
>> They they have to test monitor slash test it. >> A runoff ground water. >> Run off. Yeah. Is that a spring bill? >> Must be. >> How many years has that been capped off?
>> How many years has it been cast off? >> 20. >> How many years we have to keep testing it out? It should be reducing in still. >> You would think >> in tone. I think so. But I would imagine
>> um >> there's probably a decent state which >> dumping of who >> knows what caps or whatever. >> Yeah. >> Which is funny because they are extremely efficient when it comes to that.
>> Yeah. >> The left we have in here is 11 11,000 >> to 12. >> Yeah. Did they Is there anything behind going to 15? They got up. Other than that, no. Yeah.
So, the testing of the wells, the difference of $5,000 between a town administrator and border selectman. Are they uh are they going on previous bills or does this normally go up?
>> Um they go in on previous bills and I I don't it wasn't anticipated that it would go up as you know as what we have projected not on that one. So I mean I if you want to go with the uh I have I
have uh no objection to going with the border uh the lowerations. >> Yeah. And then is the trash bags going up? >> Uh the trash bags is the purchase. Yeah. 5%. >> Yeah.
>> 2,000. But the revenue went up 100. >> Okay. Any questions? Any other questions on waste? >> Nope. I make a motion. We recommend for department 433
the amount of $891,655.75 cents as recommended by the board of selectmen. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I >> I >> I >> I >> I J. >> I transfer station
>> and I'm going to refuse myself from this department >> all because of that $500,000. >> That's right. Um, so the transport station vote was a little funny. They did a couple of reductions which came out to 91,850,
but then when they voted the vote was 92,850. So that will be clarified. >> So they were wrong with the 92 or they want to keep it at the 92. >> No, I think the 92 is inaccurate. >> Is inaccurate. >> They meant 91,
>> I think. So yeah, we were doing a lot of math on the fly that night. >> Okay, >> the biggest reduction there is the bulky >> which I you know I had done I know I think contractually our bulky is going to be at 65,400. We just got another
notice that bulky that bulky is going up and I think I I don't know what the number is. They haven't given us the number yet and we you know and um fuel search charges are going up. So, um, if I can recommend to stay to stay with my
number. >> Mhm. >> Everybody good with that? >> Yes. Yeah. >> I make a motion that we vote to recommend for department 435 the amount of $98,350 as recommended by the town
administrator. Second. >> I >> I >> I >> I >> All right. Uh cemetery >> moing went up >> contractual. >> Yep.
that a new contract or uh >> we issue >> in the middle of >> year two of three. Okay. >> I make two of >> I make a motion that we vote to recommend for department 491 the amount
of $32,46.35 as recommended by the board of selectment and town administrator. Second. All >> in favor? I >> I >> I >> I >> I >> I
>> Okay. 510 board of health. 5106. Does it appear that they're going to lose that 255? >> So, there was a time there was no health, >> right? Yeah. Last year we didn't have a health agent. We hired um we now have a
health agent. That's fine. >> Why did we bring one on? >> We need a health agent. We we could we would you try to do part-time. We could have couldn't hold on to the part-time agent. So, >> was always the hope and intention to have a a full-time health agent. So,
>> and exactly what it's that person's responsibilities? Uh um food, septic quarters, anything things like that. >> So septic residential septic >> yes
from title five houses. >> That's I was just saying how many restaurants are in town? >> You said hoarders. >> Yeah. Yeah. They have to go in case this hoarding complaint they have to they got
>> Oh, I believe that. Yeah. Yeah, I didn't even think of that. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Okay. Looks like everybody good? >> Yeah. Yes. >> I make a motion that we vote to recommend for department 510 the amount
of $12,565.85 as recommended by the town administrator and board selectman. >> Second. >> All in favor? I >> I >> I >> I >> Jake. >> I
agent. Anybody got anything? I make a motion for department 541. We recommend the amount of $182,275.84 as recommended by both town
administrator and board of selectman. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I >> I >> I >> I >> I >> I just one one question.
Um, when this gets printed in their initial department request, they didn't have office. Will that be put back in for their request? >> Yeah, they it's it's it's >> they would have to vote.
>> Oh. Oh, yeah. >> It's a council. >> Yeah, cuz initially we thought that >> maybe they should vote on that before it goes into >> Okay. >> Were you trying to let them know that? >> Yeah, I'll let them know. Uh originally we thought that was going to be one of
the reduction veteran Do we do blood on health? >> Yes. How was his salary? I'm assuming the 0.1% is right. Or is that what based on that was his request?
You guys are now you're at the 2%. >> But uh >> Right. Yeah. We put in for the 2%. >> Okay. >> Yeah. He only works 12 hours a week. >> Mhm. >> So these numbers are accurate. Yes. It's like the SL adjusted office
supplies just based on his historic. >> They travel for these veteran services 5710. >> He very rarely for like mileage reimbursement or >> I was going to say where's his travel? Just around town or >> No, he goes to conferences. Oh, okay. A
at least two or three a year. Well, do we think it's more than $500 his travel costs? I mean, you say he rarely puts in for it. Um, >> yeah, >> I'd still like some money there. >> Agree.
But if he's if we're giving him a thousand and he's nowhere near it, >> where's it go when he doesn't use it? Prec. >> Okay. M >> if we cut both travel and
travel to 500 and maybe fuel to 500 just so it's there in case he does need it. >> Fuel is for the town car. >> Is that the hybrid car? >> The hybrid. Yeah. >> Yeah. >> So we're talking about gas. >> You got to need that there in case
conservation uses Is that that Are you talking about that white van that's over there? >> No, the white van. No, Dave doesn't use the white van. He uses the white van. I don't know. >> That's >> who drives the white van. >> I thought he was supposed to use the white van. >> Yeah, I think so. I don't think
>> I don't know if he uses the hybrid. >> That's a good question. >> Or he has somebody that drives the white van. >> He has somebody who drives the white van. >> Yes. I think the fuel is >> Yeah. >> Leave it as is. >> Yeah. >> I'm only saying that they haven't used any.
>> Correct. >> Right. >> And maybe it's just Well, >> the fiscal year starts in July. That's nice weather. I mean, rather than I know it's not much money, but rather than having money sit on lines where it's not used
We cut both of them to 500. The travel and the cats >> and I I'd even let him Well, not with the other department wanted that money for cats. >> Certainly not.
I would agree with that. Five and five. I mean, so is this for uh you said it's for conferences. Does he ever take veterans for services anywhere or >> That's the use of the van every I I know
they have >> occasionally. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. That would >> I don't know the frequency, right? I don't I don't know the frequency of it. >> Gas the gas would be for taking >> Right. The travel is for the for the veterans agent and then uh >> Oh,
and the gas is for van >> cuz he does he takes takes people to VA if I remember right. >> I think so. Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Options there. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> So that gas So this gas travel is >> gas. Yeah. Gas would be
>> for taking gas is for the van, travel is for >> his personal conferences. >> Okay. >> Okay. So again, he hasn't used the 600 either, >> right? What? Five and five. >> I like that. >> Okay. So, are you thinking the BOS recommendations
cuz there's also a change to office supplies? >> 5420. >> Mhm. Yeah, I can see why the board of selectment cut it. They don't use the 12 close to the 1,200. They're still at 28%
and we're 3/4 of the way through the fiscal year. >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> So, I can see where they cut that to 700. >> Okay. And then we'll bring gas down to five, >> right? >> And then what was the other one? >> Travel. >> Travel. >> Right underneath the gas.
>> Travel down to five. So that's in 500. So taking out 600. Okay. So the one 10 one 10 one64 else. Anything else on that? I make a motion. We vote to recommend for department 543
the amount of 110,564.34. >> 064 >> 064 sorry. All in favor? >> I >> I >> I >> I >> I >> Why is there no B recommendation presentation earlier? So, um No, you're
fine. The BOS tabled it because they were asking him to go back >> and kind of evaluate there's re-evaluate because there was a couple of different budgets sub submitted. Um, so Mark is trying to stay at his minimum. So he did
take on like some health insurance benefits and retirement. No, he this is the one without retirement, just the health insurance. And then >> he took on energy and all of that too
all that. Okay. All right. Um, so his new department request is at the minimum of the 315 984. >> To give you the lines, Tracy, it's the 5107 is the
is Ralph's number 67964. >> Okay. >> The next 5106 his request is 98301. >> Okay. 5107 was 12,000, >> right? >> And then >> 5,300 professional technical
10,62 >> and then 551056,000. Okay. Now, does his does Mark's budget reflect um the person that just retired? >> Yes. >> Yes. Okay. He's going to have two part two
full-time, one part-time in the general fund. Okay. >> Two full-time is one him or it's him two full time. >> Him two full times. >> Yep. >> It was him and three full-time >> including him is three.
I make a motion that we recommend for department 610 the amount of $315,984. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I >> I >> I >> I And we can hit uh 630, 690, 691, and 698
all around. >> 690 just differs from the Rex. >> Excuse me. >> The 690. >> Yeah. >> The board of selectment recommended zero, >> right? >> Recommended 250. >> Okay. Everything else is the same.
>> So if we need to, we'll pull it out. >> He just doesn't take anything. >> What was that? >> Takes the 250. Yes. >> So, >> you're just looking at the BOS recommendations. Everything else is
>> Yeah. >> I hate to put that down to zero. It is a town position. >> Wait, why don't we just cut it in half? >> It's already been cut. >> No, no, that one's in 55 forever. >> Yeah. Yeah.
>> Yeah. This is it's it's not a stipen. It's for whatever the expenses. Yeah. >> Her article every month. >> Yeah. Right. I think it was supposed to pay for toner or something. >> Yeah. We we've said that to her cuz she
she does buy personal things and we've said to put in for it and >> she never does. >> So then we >> 125 you said? >> Yeah. I would just cut it in half. Everybody agree? >> Yes.
>> I make a motion that we vote to recommend for department 630 and department 691 the amounts uh presented before us and recommended by both town administrator
and board of selectman. >> Second. All in favor? >> I >> I >> I >> I >> I >> I >> I make a motion that we recommend for department number 690 the amount of $125
for town historian. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I >> I >> I >> I >> I >> I What you've been waiting for? >> 698. Any questions on cable?
>> They give us money, right? >> Right. Yeah. >> Yeah. This gets funded out of the >> PEG >> peg money. >> Yeah. >> I make a recommendation that we recommend department for department 698 cable committee. The amount of
58,000 58,520 >> as recommended by both town administrator and board selected. >> Second. All in favor? >> I >> I >> I >> I >> I >> That's all of the >> the department. >> Sewer department. >> Last week.
>> Always forget the department. >> Don't forget >> with the department. I just have an updated town administrative recommendation for the indirect >> 21923. >> The indirect the very last line. Oh, >> yes. >> Yeah.
>> And what did you say that was? I'm sorry. >> 21,92348 I believe is printed. >> Yes. >> And the reason for the discrepancy between the two recommendations. >> So, initially I didn't know what health insurance was going to increase by and
once I got that final number, I factored it in. >> Okay. So, the board of selectment obviously didn't see that. Right. >> All right. >> I make a motion that we vote to recommend for department 600 the amount of
>> 21,98. >> Yeah. 408. >> Excuse me. Oh, right. Um the amount of $48,6824. Second. >> All in favor? I >> I >> I >> I
>> I >> I >> Do you want to briefly discuss the articles and potential funding sources? >> Sounds like a good idea. >> First one, pri your bills. That's
typically free cash. one article list >> 652 highway. >> Yes. >> And then to cover the snow and ice deficit, we're projecting a deficit of 350.
Um that's typically funded through free cash as well. >> Yes. stabilization for 25. I have that under free cash. We can skip over the police and highway for right now. >> What's the check?
>> Yeah. So, this check 145,000. I also have that under free cash. So, in FY25, let me think this whole way through. So, in FY25, we cut a check to health insurance. They said we they didn't receive the check.
We put a stop payment on the check and voided the check. And then they did receive the check and then the invoices following that had a reduction in expenses because of the check that they did receive that had
a stop payment but somehow got paid. But I never reversed the void that I had processed in my system. So last year in FY25, health insurance closed out with like over 200,000, but 145 of that was this
check. And the way the re the cash recon was done, I didn't realize that that was still like an outstanding item on the cash refund. And a couple months ago, Paul brought it up again and I said, "Oh, I didn't realize we didn't fully
accomplish that." Cuz it had happened right at the end of the year. So, we changed our process for the stop payment situation because a check shouldn't have been cashed when we stopped paid it. >> Correct. >> Um, so now to clean up his cash recon. So, initially that money had closed out
to free cash. So, now I want to take it out of free cash and fix cash recon. So, now I have all of the recon items in the summary page of the page I look at because his Excel sheet has a million bank accounts. So, I just concentrate on
one area. So, now we're on the same page that all of the outstanding items is regardless of what bank account it is, it's all listed on that that first page. >> Yeah. Cuz I didn't see it, so I kind of forgot about it. And then year end closed and then we got to the new fiscal
year and I was like, that's why health insurance has so much money at the end of the year. So, we're looking to clean that up. And then to fund unemployment for 50,000, I have that in free cash. And the Pleasant Street Bridge for 28,000,
that's to pay the residents for um easements. And that's being um appraised as we speak. So all of those in free cash plus 30,000 to the budget
leaves leaves the 341,000 which is also on a different sheet I had given you. So then that leaves the two vehicles for police um and the two vehicle requests for highway.
Um, our regular stabilization account right now has 2,330,000. So those are two are only really two funding sources is free cash and stabilization. So I don't know if you guys, you know, want to discuss someone yourselves if it if the board of sin
recommend one vehicle for police, one vehicle for fire or I'm not quite sure what that. So that'll come up at the next meeting on Wednesday. So if everyone is available next Wednesday the 22nd we were hoping to do a joint meeting with the BOS and the fincom
and I know Peter is not available and it will be at Old Town Hall. It's their regularly scheduled meeting. Yeah. >> I won't be here either. >> Okay. Is anybody else going to be missing? >> I am on a plane. I may be able to zoom
in >> next Wednesday 6 o'clock. Seven a four person quarter be fine. >> Yep. >> Travel days are over >> for now 6 or 6.
>> Deb >> I think at 6:00 town hall. >> Yeah. Six. >> Are you flying? >> Yeah. I'm on a plane from 517 to 7:23, but I may be able to zoom. Okay. Oh, >> because they have Wi-Fi on the plane.
So, >> that'd be fun. >> Yeah, it is birthday. >> Somebody can. >> Yeah. >> It's Earth Day that April 22nd. It's Earth Day. >> Yeah. >> Happy Earth.
He's just thinking I can tell when the pen starts to flick. That's what he's thinking. You want to share? >> Just going looking at the pre-cash and
the equipment requests. >> Both both the police vehicles are admin vehicles. >> Yes. When was the last time we bought the highway truck? >> Uh 14. >> No, they got a one ton truck.
>> Oh, the one >> couple years ago >> 350 >> 2019. >> I'm assuming this big one. >> I was hired in 22 and it was during my time. >> Okay. >> So, >> I'm assuming this >> is a big one. >> Yes.
with a plow and a four season body. >> Yeah. >> Did you say vehicles for the police? >> He requested two admin vehicles >> right there. Yeah. >> Okay. So, >> yeah. >> Administrators. >> What's that?
>> Do are those cars equipped with all the bells and whistles and the >> Okay. So, have you ever thought of getting a used car? I mean seriously for administrators I mean especially when they're not fully loaded.
>> Do we have ad I mean >> what is fully it's not a it's not a patrol car but it has significant amount of uh of of equipment in there >> and what do they use the car for? >> Right. >> So it's the chief and the deputy chief's
car. It's when they're on duty that's what they drive. So, it has to be fully equipped if they're on duty, right? >> Well, so fully fully equipped, not for the street, though. So, it can't be turned into >> It can't be a patrol or patrol car. No, it can't. >> So, when they're on duty, they're
driving a a not fully equipped car, but they're on the street. >> Not resp they need the >> They don't have to They're not They don't use the car to equip like it doesn't have a shotgun in it. It doesn't have a cage in it. doesn't have things
which you would normally have for for a patrol car. So, it has um a radio, a computer, and and all those other associated equipment with a with a police car. >> And what's the difference between that car and the police chief's car we just bought? >> Fire chief. >> Oh, was Oh, was fire chief's car? Yeah.
Yeah. >> Didn't we just buy a police car? >> A patrol car, >> right? >> Why can't they use a patrol car? >> Yeah. they uh because they don't want to take
a patrol car off, you know, off the street for for administrative purposes, >> but there's not there's never a time when every single patrol car is being utilized. >> I always see a ton in the parking lot. >> There's never a thing. Yeah. Like, so I I >> that is the question we got to ask them
when they come up for us. >> Each car is like assigned >> to that. >> Yeah. Uh yeah, but if that's not something that's budgetarily allowed, then that's not something that's budgetarily allowed. And them asking for two cars right now is
the height of hilarity in my opinion. So what like you get out the big >> given the fact that we just I know it was contractual but we just fulfilled all of their contractual stuff with these
big raises. >> Mhm. >> And now they need administrative cars on top of it. >> Do you want to explain his plan for the cars? Well, he's getting um so there are three cars involved. One car is an an older
car which he's going to turn in to um to reduce the cost of one of the cars. One of the other cars he's going to uh give to the detective and the other car is going to pass on to the fire department. So So shifting the cars around. So
that's why he's requesting two new administrative cars. Yeah, I I'd rather buy the fire chief a new car so that the fire chief can have a new car and not get a hand-me-down. >> I agree with Jake. >> Well, the chief himself is driving a new car,
>> right? It's his deputy chief that that has the 2004 one. >> But I I I on on on all the principle on the planet, >> you know, saying, "Well, if you buy me two more cars, I'll give one of my old ones to the fire chief is not that doesn't justify two new cars. I'm
sorry." >> Well, not only that, but fire chief said that 2004 it it it's going to need money dumped into it. It's a 2004 for God's sake. >> Yeah. Just gonna get out the big the big
rejected red stamp on that one right there and just put that right right there. >> Denied. Denied. Denied. >> Sorry. >> I I think this is more discussion for right. >> Yeah.
>> For funding for next week. Do we even I mean, do we put that on the warrant? Do we keep that on the warrant as a as a question? >> I go back answer. And then and then if it stays then it would its funding source would be
presumably free cash. >> Mhm. Exactly. >> They hold that off till the fall myself. But >> I mean >> do that. >> Yeah. >> Well, it's the swatchman's decision
which articles get placed. Yeah. Mhm. I just wanted to let you guys discuss it then. >> Yeah, >> we appreciate that. >> Yes. >> Any um anything else from anybody?
>> No. >> So, we are meeting with um jointly with the board of selectman next Wednesday and then did you say >> Oh, we're not going to need >> Yeah, we don't need it. We did a contract. I was going to hold you in here captive.
There's going to be no meeting on April 18th. >> Take a motion to >> I make a motion to adjourn. >> Second. All in favor? I thanks everybody. Thank you.