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Select board approves $10,000 facilities equipment reserve amid calls for a written plan
Summary
The Select Board approved a new $10,000 reserve for facilities equipment but several members urged developing a formal plan first, citing potential full costs (equipment plus transport) that could reach tens of thousands of dollars.
The Lyman Select Board approved a new $10,000 facilities equipment reserve on June 2 after extended discussion about whether the town should set aside funds now or wait until it had a detailed plan.
Supporters said starting a reserve was prudent as the town scales services and may need equipment for mowing, brush chipping and other public works tasks. "You have to start somewhere," one Select Board member said, arguing that the new position and expanded responsibilities justify a reserve.
Opponents said the town should first produce a plan that specifies which equipment would be purchased and how it would be used — a single piece of equipment that lifts 2,000 pounds could cost $60,000 or more, and towing or storage costs would add to the total. "If you're going to buy large pieces of equipment, you're talking about repairing pieces of equipment that we haven't used for a very long time," another member said, urging caution.
Discussion also noted that the town recently hired a director of facilities (referred to during the meeting as the director of DPW) and that using existing privately owned equipment had reduced prior costs; members cautioned the town should not assume such arrangements continue indefinitely. A motion to create the $10,000 facilities equipment reserve was moved, seconded and carried.
The conversation touched on potential future needs — trailers, towing vehicles, mechanics and a possible DPW facility — and board members proposed bringing a more detailed facilities plan to next year's budget process before ramping up the reserve amount. The board approved the reserve with the intent that staff would return with a plan and clearer cost estimates.
What happens next: Town staff were directed to continue planning and to provide more detailed equipment and facilities cost estimates to the Select Board in the coming budget cycle.
