Town Council debates conditions for treasurer's salary amid performance concerns

The Scituate Town Council convened on June 4, 2025, to discuss the financial implications of the town treasurer's salary amid concerns over performance and accountability. A significant motion was proposed to condition the payment of the treasurer's salary, which is approximately $18,000, on the office holder's attendance and reporting to the town hall for a minimum of ten hours per week.

The motion aimed to ensure that the treasurer would certify in writing to the town council president and the town clerk the days and hours worked. However, the motion faced immediate challenges. The town solicitor ruled it out of order, stating that the financial town meeting could not dictate the work conditions of an elected official. This ruling was contested by some council members who argued that the financial meeting had the authority to condition payments based on performance.

Despite the pushback, the chair upheld the ruling, leading to a discussion about the treasurer's accountability. One council member expressed disappointment over the ruling, citing a lack of supervision in the treasurer's office and referencing several costly mistakes made in recent years, including errors in tax bill calculations that resulted in significant financial losses for the town.

In response to the ongoing concerns, another council member proposed a motion to reduce the treasurer's salary to $15,000, emphasizing the need for the office holder to demonstrate commitment to the role. This proposal was framed as a necessary measure to ensure accountability, although it was also characterized as somewhat punitive.

The meeting highlighted the tension between the council's desire for oversight and the limitations imposed by the elected nature of the treasurer's position. As discussions continued, the council members acknowledged the importance of addressing these issues, with some suggesting that such matters should ultimately be resolved at the ballot box during the next election. The outcome of these discussions will likely influence future governance and accountability measures within the town.