At the Dec. 30 meeting the Board of Selectmen spent significant time reviewing proposed warrant articles and capital projects expected to appear for 2025 action. Topics included road improvements, police and fire equipment funding, resurfacing of Caswell Fields courts, upgrades to town streaming equipment and park drainage work.

Roads: Staff described an Altus Engineering proposal and a multi-year plan (2025'28) that includes full rebuilds and resurfacing for Portsmouth Avenue, Osprey Cove, Grove Street and other segments. The board discussed placing $265,000 as a warrant-article ask and extending the current road contract into next year if the contractor (Barrasso) agrees. Members pressed for prioritization and a capital-improvement plan rather than one large request.

Caswell Fields courts: Recreation committee representatives (DJ and Sharon) requested $40,000 to resurface and reline the basketball and tennis courts; the board noted estimates ranged from $30,000 to $60,000 depending on the scope. Officials discussed whether to fund the work via capital reserve funds, taxation, or fundraising and urged clearer wording in the warrant to avoid voter frustration.

Ralston Park drainage: The conservation commission presented an estimate for French drains and related improvements; the transcript lists an amount of $1,200,617 (board asked for clarification on that figure and whether grants could cover part or all). The board discussed ownership bounds of the park and potential grant options.

Police and fire equipment: The board reviewed a police equipment capital reserve (ballistic vests replacement schedule) and a police proposal for solar driver feedback signs tied to a 75% grant; the chief had not yet provided firm grant award amounts. Fire department requests included replacement large-diameter hose (later given as $31,080) and 10 sets of personal protective equipment at a total quoted amount of $60,000. Staff said those fire purchases would come from the equipment fund, not direct taxation.

Next steps: Board members asked staff to refine warrant language, confirm grant awards, provide clearer cost estimates and consult with the budget committee. Several items will be finalized and written to DRA wording before the next meeting and deliberative sessions.