Templeton advisory committee seeks clearer bylaws, access to town financial records ahead of budget season

The Town of Templeton Advisory Committee on Thursday debated whether its bylaws give it enough authority to act as a financial watchdog as the town prepares for budget season. Chairwoman Jacqueline Macomber opened the discussion, saying the committee wants to ‘‘hone all of our attention into the budget’’ as presentations and joint meetings approach.

Committee members compared Templeton’s bylaw language with neighboring towns and argued the existing wording does not explicitly describe the committee’s duties or its access to warrants, ledgers and supporting documents. One member proposed drafting a letter to the select board and the town administrator asking that advisory members be allowed to view warrants and records without charge and that the committee’s responsibilities be stated more explicitly.

Members agreed on practical steps to reduce staff burden, including compiling questions biweekly rather than sending multiple ad hoc requests, and using comparison bylaws from similarly sized towns as models. The committee also agreed that, if necessary, they could request an agenda slot before the select board to press for action.

The committee voted to authorize a member to review the committee’s policy documents, propose wording changes, and forward a recommendation and draft letter to the select board for approval and signature. The revisions will be sent to the chair for submission to the select board once finalized.

Macomber said she will seek follow-up responses from the town administrator and town accountant and report back at the committee’s February meeting.