In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the urgent need for enhanced planning support within the town, highlighting a proposal to address staffing shortages in the planning department. The conversation centered around the allocation of approximately $88,000 from the fiscal year 2025 budget, which is earmarked for hiring a new planner and potentially engaging external consultants.

The planning board has identified a backlog of projects, particularly in zoning and land use, which has prompted the need for additional resources. Currently, the department is managed by Kathy Murray, who has been praised for her efforts but is overwhelmed by the increasing volume of work. The proposed solution involves creating a part-time position alongside hiring a consultant to provide specialized support, particularly in areas requiring legal and environmental expertise.

Concerns were raised regarding the effectiveness of hiring a consultant versus a full-time planner. Some officials argued that a dedicated planner could offer consistent oversight and better integration with the planning board, while others emphasized the benefits of external consultants who bring diverse experiences from other municipalities.

The discussion also touched on the importance of aligning the new role with the needs of the conservation commission, as the town seeks to fill the recently vacated conservation agent position. The board acknowledged the necessity of immediate action to address current demands while also considering a long-term strategy for staffing and resource allocation.

As the meeting concluded, officials expressed a commitment to further evaluate the town's planning needs and explore the best path forward, balancing immediate solutions with sustainable staffing strategies. The proposal for utilizing consultant services is expected to be revisited in upcoming sessions, with a focus on ensuring that the planning department is adequately equipped to handle the growing number of projects.