Rec director reports busy summer; select board and treasurer discuss seniors’ account and background-check policy

Town recreation director Mike Rowe updated the Select Board July 15 on summer programming, pool usage, lifeguard staffing, a senior luncheon at the pool next week and maintenance projects at town parks. Rowe said a recently hired certified lifeguard picked up her first shift and that staff had installed new adjustable basketball systems and new cameras at the pool. He also said quotes were being sought to repair doors at Dewey and that background-check policy work for recreation employees will return to the board after rec committee review. Carrie Clark, the town clerk and treasurer, raised an audit-related concern about a separate checking account used for senior-program funds. Clark said the seniors’ account had migrated to a different bank and was recently turned over to the recreation director; auditors have noted the account has not been monitored to town standards. She said the balance is “just below $5,000” and that some of the funds originated from previous town appropriations to local senior groups. Auditors recommended monitoring and controls and reconciliation practices. Clark said one solution would be for the seniors’ group to vote to transfer the account funds to the town, which would then bring the money under municipal controls and purchasing policy. Board members asked staff to consult with auditors and the senior group and to return with a proposal; Clark said she would follow up with auditor Andrew and with Select Board members as needed. Separately, the rec committee will present a proposed background-check policy and release forms at a future meeting for board consideration.