Town administrator and selectmen approve contract converting building inspector to contractor

The Henniker Board of Selectmen voted unanimously Aug. 5 to approve a contract converting Building Inspector and Code Enforcement Officer Bob Garside from an employee to a 1099 subcontractor.

Town Administrator Diane introduced the agreement, saying it is intended to increase operational flexibility, ensure compliance with labor and insurance requirements and preserve continuity. "This change is intended to improve operational flexibility, ensure compliance with labor laws, and enhance service continuity," Diane said. She told the board the contract is budget neutral and includes a monthly rate of $2,005.85 and provisions that require appropriate liability coverage and background checks.

Selectmen asked clarifying questions about insurance and workers' compensation. Diane responded that the insurance and liability requirements are spelled out in the contract and that the contractor would be required to carry the specified coverage. After a motion and second, the board approved the agreement by voice vote (the chair stated "Motion carries 4 nothing"). The contract is subject to town budget limits and any appropriation required at town meeting.

The agreement will change the employment status and payment structure for the building-inspection and code-enforcement duties, while the town administrator said it will not exceed the annual budget without further action. The board did not record roll-call votes in the transcript beyond the unanimous voice vote.

What happens next: the town administrator was authorized to execute the agreement, and the contract will be processed consistent with budget approvals.