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Select Board discussion on annual COLA policy draws public comment; board tables the matter
Summary
After extensive debate and public comment on whether to adopt a standing COLA policy tied to federal Social Security adjustments and whether to cap increases, the Select Board voted to table the item until further notice and withdrew the immediate motion.
The Select Board held an extended discussion and heard public comment about whether to adopt a formal annual cost‑of‑living adjustment (COLA) policy for town employees tied to the federal Social Security COLA. Board members debated whether the policy should be binding, whether a cap was appropriate, and whether the matter should instead go to the town voters.
One proposal read at the meeting stated the select board’s intent to ensure employee compensation keeps pace with inflation by granting an annual increase no less than the federal Social Security COLA. An alternative proposal limited the automatic COLA to not exceed a specified percentage (initially proposed at 2.5%; later discussion considered a cap at up to the town’s 4% tax cap). Supporters urged the board to avoid a cap so employees would receive full adjustment in high‑inflation years; others said an uncapped automatic COLA could set expectations the board may not be able to meet under the town’s 4% tax cap and that fiscal flexibility is needed.
Public comment included multiple residents and town employees who urged the board to value employees and either avoid a cap or take the issue to a warrant article at town meeting. Board members acknowledged the concerns and said the policy could be revised by future boards but also voiced concerns about setting expectations that might exceed budget constraints.
After discussion and an amendment request, a motion to adopt an amended proposal was withdrawn by its maker. The board then voted to table the COLA policy matter for further consideration.
Ending: The board agreed to revisit the topic at a later date and noted that any change could also be placed on a town warrant for voter consideration if desired.
