Brentwood sells property to finance tax reduction and municipal building plans

During the recent Selectboard meeting in Brentwood, NH, significant discussions centered around financial management and municipal planning, highlighting the town's proactive approach to addressing ongoing legal and infrastructural challenges.

One of the key topics was the resolution of a long-standing legal issue involving a property sale. Town Administrator Joe Tropiano reported that the town will receive a substantial portion of the proceeds from this sale. These funds are expected to be encumbered into the general fund, potentially aiding in reducing the tax rate for the upcoming year. This financial maneuver reflects the town's commitment to fiscal responsibility and its efforts to alleviate the tax burden on residents.

In addition to financial matters, the meeting also addressed the progress of the municipal building committee. It was confirmed that the committee has allocated $25,000, along with existing capital reserve funds, to advance the design phase of a new municipal building. The next steps will involve discussing a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) at the March meeting, where the committee will evaluate proposals from firms interested in the project. The goal is to present three options to voters at the 2026 town meeting, which include a standalone police building, a police building with an attached or detached town hall, and a joint-use facility.

Furthermore, the meeting touched on administrative transitions, particularly regarding the town clerk and tax collector roles. The town is working on transitioning to new software systems, which will streamline operations. While the transition for the town clerk can proceed independently, the tax collector's transition is contingent upon the completion of the assessing software upgrade.

Overall, the discussions at the Selectboard meeting reflect Brentwood's strategic planning and commitment to enhancing municipal services while managing financial resources effectively. As the town moves forward with these initiatives, residents can anticipate further developments in both infrastructure and administrative efficiency.