by Frank Schroth

Aside from voting to reject the Carrick Realty bid on the Hendries property (see related post here), the board heard from Town Administrator Annmarie Fagan that Standard & Poor had increased the town’s bond rating from AA to AAA, the highest rating possible. This was welcome news.

This announcement marks a high note in regarding the town’s financial health. The rating came about from a recent analysis by S&P based on a new set of criteria they had developed. Their report cited in part Milton’s strong budget flexibility, strong liquidity, and the town’s willingness when needed to take on and pay down debt (i.e. vote overrides). The selectmen and Ms. Fagan acknowledged and thanked all that worked to earn this rating: the warrant committee (past and present), Ms. Dexter, the town acceptant, Mr McAuliffe, the treasurer as well as the previous members of the Board of Selctmen and previous town treasurer, Kevin Sorgi.

Members of the School Committee appeared before the board to discuss the formation of a joint committee to explore opportunities for consolidation between town departments and the schools. They agreed on a 6 person committee that would be composed of one School Committee member, one citizen and the following Glenn Pavlicek, Asst Superintendent for Business, Anmarie Fagan, Town Administrator, Amy Dexter, Town Accountant, and Jim McAuliffe, the Town Treasurer. Residents interested in serving on the committee should email Annmarie Fagan. The specific charge was not defined but there was agreement to keep the charge fairly open so as to provide the committee with flexibility. (The School Committee appointed Mike Zullas in their meeting last night.)

The Milton Art Center has been in negotiation with the town on their lease of the East Milton branch library. The organization had requested that the rent remain at $500 a month. They had received a 6 month extension at that term and were seeking another 6 month extension while their fundraising efforts pick up. Denis Keohane recused himself from the discussion as his wife teaches at the center. Members Conlon and Hurley expressed support for the work that the center does in providing art and culture to the community but were concerned over the town’s ability to cover capital costs associated with the building’s maintenance. Hurley suggested a compromise. MAC will continue to pay $500 a month and pay an additional $3,000 at the end of the term of the lease.

In other business the board interviewed Travis Weekes, a Milton Police Cadet who was being considered for promotion to patrolman. Chief Wells introduced Mr. Weekes who then was interviewed by the board. Mr. Weekes answered a series of questions including where he hoped to be after 5 years. Mr. Weekes said, “[I’ll still] be perfecting my craft.  .  .and continuing my education.” Chief Wells said of Mr. Weekes, “He is wise beyond his years.” The board unanimously approved his promotion.

The board also made a series of budget approvals that will now move to the Warrant Committee for review in advance of annual town meeting and they heard from resident Margaret Donovan during Citizen Speak. She wanted to clarify how the group that met with the Connellys for the purpose of reviving the discussion of a mixed use development was formed. She said about 30 were invited to Senator Joyce’s house and the committee was formed there. She expressed concern that what the Connellys were doing in their response to RGP was the “same old, same old” and that the town should consider using converting the property to parking.