Council approves $911.57 in tax refunds, disposes school assets; police chief introduces two new officers

The Vernon Town Council approved routine consent items and heard a personnel presentation from the police department.

Finance: The council approved six tax refunds for the current year totaling $911.57, following a motion referencing a memorandum from Terry, collector of revenue. The motion was seconded by Jim and carried unanimously.

Assets: The council approved disposal of fixed assets for the Vernon Board of Education as listed on the fixed asset forms. Staff explained the practice of lifecycle replacement for computers, the removal and destruction of hard drives before disposal, and that proceeds from any sale or auction go to the general fund. Councilors asked about the trade-in or scrap value for computers and vehicles and were told values are typically modest.

Public safety: Police Chief (unnamed) introduced two new officers. He presented Officer Jordan Roberts, noting local ties, education credentials, and that she was sworn in Dec. 16 and completed field training on Oct. 20; he also introduced Officer Dale D'Alessandro with similar onboarding dates and local background. The chief invited council members to contact the department for assistance.

Why it matters: The tax refunds and asset disposals are routine fiscal housekeeping that maintain transparency about how the town handles obsolete equipment and small refunds. The police introductions update the council on department staffing and recent hires.

What's next: The council moved the fixed-asset disposal into consent for future years and will receive asset lists annually; staff said they will circulate CCM training information to council members by email.