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Select Board approves multiple warrant positions: operating budget, MSBA roof article, easement amendment and licenses; some items deferred for more analysis
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Summary
At its March 17 meeting the Select Board voted to support the operating budget (Article 6) as revised, back the MSBA Trottier roof article (Article 15), amend and approve acceptance of a Willow Street easement (Article 27), and approved a common victualler license for Fitness Fusion. Members deferred full consideration of a proposed $25 million roads/sidewalk borrowing until staff provide a debt impact presentation.
The Select Board used its March 17 meeting to review the April 11 town meeting warrant and take positions on several articles.
Operating budget (Article 6): After a recast of benefits assumptions tied to ongoing health‑plan negotiations, the board voted to support the operating budget as reflected in the most recent draft. Staff explained the budget assumes a conservative enrollment shift into a proposed high‑deductible health plan; the board asked benefits staff to continue employee outreach during open enrollment to maximize projected savings.
Trottier roof (Article 15): The board voted to support the MSBA accelerated repair article for Trottier School (see separate story). The district will present slides at town meeting.
Easement for Willow Street (Article 27): The board amended the draft article by striking the words “purchase or eminent domain” and approved language that accepts a donated easement and authorizes staff to negotiate and execute documents necessary to effectuate the acquisition. Advisory had recommended removing purchase/eminent domain language.
Licenses and appointments: The board approved a common victualler license for Fitness Fusion LLC (DBA Fuel Fusion Nutrition) at 155 Boston Road, and approved the ad hoc cemetery expansion committee charge and authorized advertising for applicants.
Roads and sidewalk borrowing (Article 13 / capital package): Board members emphasized the need for a short, clear debt‑impact presentation (tax effect on the median house, estimated ranges) before taking a formal position on the proposed large borrowing. Staff agreed to schedule a focused presentation ahead of the next meeting; the board did not withhold support but did not finalize a recommendation.
Citizen petitions: The board heard two citizen petitions. A petition to create a separate finance committee (Article 34) failed to earn the board’s support (motion recorded as 1–3–1). A proposed bylaw to ban single‑use plastic checkout bags prompted discussion and the board advised petitioners to work with the Board of Health and return with tightened language and enforcement mechanisms, possibly at the fall town meeting.
Next steps: Several items will appear on the April 11 town meeting warrant. Staff will supply additional materials and targeted presentations on debt impacts and benefits assumptions before the meeting.
