Selectboard discusses town budget, Gateway school funding and upcoming Water Department rate hearing

During its March 2 meeting the Chester Selectboard discussed remaining budget items, local school funding pressures and several operational concerns.

Selectboard member Brian Forgue said only a few items remained before the full town budget could be reviewed and noted that recent years had seen health insurance costs budgeted higher than actual expenses; the town now has a clearer understanding of those costs. Forgue reported that the Gateway Regional School District was close to finalizing a budget for presentation to Hilltown communities and said options would go before the School Committee, including a proposal that would increase town assessments to prevent staff or hour reductions. Members discussed Chester’s enrollment trends, noting a recent increase followed by a projected decrease.

Bob Daley announced the Water Department public rate hearing scheduled for Wednesday, March 11 at 6:00 p.m. at Town Hall. Craig Gauthier asked whether the Highway Department could dispose of trash at the Transfer Station instead of paying for a dumpster at the highway garage; Liz Massa said the Transfer Station is regulated and cannot accept certain hazardous materials and that Highway staff would need to coordinate with the attendant. Craig also noted that differing work schedules between Highway staff and the Transfer Station attendant could complicate disposal coordination.

Craig Gauthier asked Bob Daley about test drilling near Reservoir Road; Daley said there was no new information. The meeting closed after a motion to adjourn passed; the meeting adjourned at 6:52 p.m.