Andover board extends community center assistant’s contract pending finance board approval

The Andover Board of Selectmen voted Tuesday to extend the contract of community center assistant Haley Proto through June 30, 2026, at current compensation levels, subject to approval from the Board of Finance.

"I make a motion that we approve the continuation of Haley Proto's contract till the end of the fiscal year 2025–2026 or till June 30th of 2026 at the current compensation levels pending the approval of the Board of Finance," said Selectman Jeff Murray, who moved the extension. The motion was seconded and carried 4–0.

Residents who spoke during public comment urged the board to keep Proto in place, describing programs she runs as valuable. "It's been absolutely fantastic," said resident Ed Weineart of the after‑school program that Proto runs at the community center.

Board members reviewed budget implications before voting. Eric Anderson, the outgoing town administrator, said the municipal stipend available to offset the cost is $6,100 annually. He also noted staff planned to absorb some hours in existing driver/dispatch salary lines and identified an anticipated net annual overrun on the community center wages line that staff will present to the Board of Finance for a transfer or other funding solution.

The board agreed to present the staffing change and a plan to the Board of Finance at its Nov. 19 meeting. If the board of finance approves a transfer, the town will fund the position through June of next year; if not, the selectmen indicated they would revisit staffing plans.