Town manager reports hiring progress and project updates; Wilder Drive easements finalized

Town Manager Greg Colby told the Board of Selectmen on July 14 that the town has filled several key positions and advanced local infrastructure work. Why it matters: The hires restore internal capacity in planning, building inspection and administration and are expected to reduce workload strain on existing staff. Details: Colby said a planning technician, a building inspector and an administrative assistant will start on July 20. The town continues to recruit for the accounts-payable/bookkeeper position and is processing about 30–35 resumes for the assistant town manager role. Colby also reported that easements for the Wilder Drive project have been finalized and are expected to be filed at the registry, allowing staff to prepare a construction schedule. Public safety and operations: Colby noted the fire department and police have been busy; he said the fire department had about 22 calls the past weekend, including multiple serious incidents, and that two new dispatchers are starting this month to fill vacancies.