by Frank Schroth
The Board of Selectmen met on 12/21. Their session included but was not limited to:
- A financial review of the town’s books. The report from Francis Sullivan was positive. The town came within 1% of what is close to an $80 million dollar budget, and the 1% was on the positive side. The town received ~$4.4 million in federal funds almost all of which was allocated to SPED issues. Sweeney expressed concern at that number which he felt was low. Sullivan said it was in the range of what town’s similar to Milton received and, like Milton, most of the federal funds were for education. Sullivan noted that of the 10 comments made in last year’ report, 5 had been resolved and 5 were still outstanding and he had 5 new ones. He encouraged the town to move to a Purchase Order system similar to what the schools are using. Mearn said the process was underway and should be online in a little over a year. Such a system ensures you cannot inadvertently spend money you don’t have. Currently town uses an appropriations model. Almost all of Sullivan’s comments related to strategies that would make for tighter financial management. Other examples included getting a better handle of federal grants and outstanding checks. The town received an “unqualified opinion, which is the best you can get,’ according to Sullivan. He also complimented the town accounting department which was fully engaged in process and timely in addressing questions and concerns.
- The Selectmen unanimously approved 2% salary increases for 1 year for Fire Chief Grant, Town Administrator Mearn, Deputy police Chief Paris, and Police Chief Wells. with one exception. Selectman Shields voted “No” on Chief Wells increase, saying he did not approve of certain conduct. He did not elaborate. Selectmen Sweeney stated that the felt the Chief did a very good job.
- Jacob Martens and Thalia Etienne, students from St. Mary’s of the Hills, asked for permission to hold a walk in the spring to benefit the Haiti Micah Project. The walk will feature a couple of different routes of varying distances. The walk will take place on April 29th. They have a fundraising goal of $750. You can learn more about the Haiti Micah Project here. We will publish additional information about the walk as it becomes available.