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Select Board discusses possible cuts, staffing pressures and votes to enter nonpublic session
Summary
Board members reviewed options if a June ballot measure fails, discussed staffing and benefits as retention tools, considered potential service cuts, and voted to move into nonpublic session under a statute cited in the record as 'RSC 91A32A'.
The Lee Select Board opened a discussion about the town’s draft budget and potential steps if an upcoming June ballot measure fails. Board members and staff discussed presenting a "menu of possibilities" for the public rather than locking in detailed line-item cuts, citing possible measures such as reducing transfer-station days, cutting new-book purchases, or limiting staff replacements.
One board member described persistent staffing shortages in police, fire and the transfer station and emphasized the importance of reasonable health-insurance and retirement benefits to retain employees. "The only way to hold on to as much as we can is to provide reasonable health insurance," the member said, noting layoffs or not replacing departed staff would reduce services.
A separate speaker said the town could end the year with a surplus (roughly $200,000 or more) depending on winter costs for plowing and salt, which are the budget's primary wildcard.
Following discussion, a motion to enter nonpublic session under the statute cited in the record as "RSC 91A32A" (as read aloud in the meeting) was made, seconded and carried by voice vote. The record indicates the purpose cited related to dismissal, promotion, compensation, disciplining, or investigation of public employees. The board did not take public votes on personnel matters in open session during the meeting.
