Select Board tables final action on municipal complex committee charge after extended debate

The Hubbardston Select Board on Oct. 20 considered revisions to the Public Safety Building Committee charge and a proposed name change to "Municipal Complex Building Committee" to reflect inclusion of town offices. After extended discussion about membership, representation from town hall and potential conflicts for the town administrator, the board agreed to pause action and asked staff to revise the draft and seek additional input from department heads.

Board members and committee representatives discussed whether the committee should include the police and fire chiefs, the town administrator and an additional town‑hall staff member. Several members argued that adding a town‑hall staffer would provide a practical lens on office layout, records storage and daily workflows; others said placing the town administrator and a town‑hall staffer on the same committee could create conflicts and would require careful selection. The police and fire chiefs said they solicit input from their personnel and would bring technical needs forward within the committee.

Town Administrator Nathan Bloomberg said he would refine the membership list, solicit staff views on which departments most need liaison representation and return a shorter, clearer proposal. The Select Board decided not to adopt the revised charge at this meeting and postponed action to allow staff and the committee to resolve membership language and representation questions. The item will return to a future meeting after staff consultation.