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Debate over new communications specialist spot centers on hours, staffing and retention
Summary
The Select Board proposed a new communications specialist position budgeted at $50,000 for 2025 (estimated annual cost ~$100,000). Supporters said it will improve public outreach and cross‑train staff; critics said the town should restore full hours and better use existing staff before adding headcount. Article placed on the ballot as written.
Article P‑25‑19 would fund a communications specialist position with an initial $50,000 appropriation for partial-year wages and roll‑up costs; town staff estimated the full annual cost at about $100,000. The Select Board and the Budget Committee recommended placement on the ballot.
Select Board members and several residents said the role would centralize public notices, information distribution and social media, improve response to Right‑to‑Know Requests and cross‑train staff ahead of several anticipated retirements. Supporters said the position would help the town modernize outreach and maintain continuity when long‑time employees retire.
Opponents urged the town to reopen town hall hours, to better post material online and to consider flexible work arrangements for current staff rather than creating new positions. Several residents noted that some town employees already work compressed schedules and that replacing retirees could be challenging in the current hiring market without offering competitive flexibility.
After discussion the article was placed on the ballot as written and restricted from reconsideration. The Select Board and staff said they would clarify the job description, the hiring timeline and cross‑training plans before recruitment if voters approve the appropriation in March.
