Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Staffing topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Planning Board urges interim part‑time planner as town assesses organization; potential retainer discussed
Summary
Members expressed support for hiring temporary planning help to cover workload and advise on upcoming projects; one board member reported finding a consultant who would work up to 10 hours weekly at $150/hour on a short retainer.
Several members of the West Newbury Planning Board urged the town to secure interim planning assistance while the municipal organizational assessment proceeds and while the board prepares for major upcoming applications.
Board members said a part-time planner on an hourly retainer could provide continuity and help the board manage permit reviews and text changes. “I have found a firm out of the Boston area ... there’s a woman ... she prefers no more than 10 hours a week,” one member said, adding, "She charges $150 an hour." The speaker suggested a short retainer (three months suggested as a reasonable initial window) so the town can test workload without committing to a full-time hire.
Members discussed procurement logistics and noted that retaining outside professionals for limited hours is comparable to engaging outside engineering consultants; they asked staff to explore options and coordinate with the town manager/select board on approvals.
Next steps: board members will flesh out logistics with staff and explore candidates and contracting options so the town can obtain temporary planning support if needed.
