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Select Board will repost clerk role as 'Clerk and Administrative Assistant' after debate over full‑time need
Summary
Board discussed a long list of unfilled administrative tasks and the transfer station staffing challenge, concluded there is community interest in a full‑time role but budget constraints remain, and agreed to repost the job as 'Clerk and Administrative Assistant (part‑time with potential for full‑time)' while assessing applicants and budget options.
The board revisited an ongoing staffing challenge: the town office clerk position has been advertised at part‑time hours (about 28), but staff reported several unmet tasks — digitizing historical records, maintaining meeting packets and website, filing, and supporting appointments — that would justify full‑time coverage.
Members and staff agreed to adjust the job title to "Clerk and Administrative Assistant" and to repost the position to test applicant interest for either part‑time or full‑time employment. Several board members stressed that if the town cannot recruit for part‑time hours, a full‑time position with benefits may be necessary to attract candidates.
The transfer station staffing problem was discussed in parallel. The board reported one candidate is interested and that current staff training and mentoring efforts have improved operations; the board encouraged continued recruitment and agreed to try staffing experiments while searching for longer‑term solutions.
Budget and implementation issues: Board members noted that approving a full‑time position would require a budget decision (an appropriation for increased hours and benefits). Some members suggested possible internal reallocation (for example, reviewing planner hours or other lines) but no budget action was taken at the meeting.
Next steps: Staff will repost the clerk/administrative assistant job with clarified duties and title, reach out to potential candidates, and report back with applicant interest and budget implications.
