Selectboard approves ambulance contract, reviews rental and benefits policies, discusses FEMA floodplain maps

The Selectboard approved several administrative items during its March 23 meeting. Town Administrator Andrew Alward presented the FY contract with Hilltown Community Ambulance, saying the increase was less than 2% and all other terms were standard; the board voted to accept the contract.

The board also reviewed an updated Hall Rental Policy that allows residents to rent the hall at no cost for events up to five hours (including setup and breakdown) and charges $50 per hour for rentals exceeding five hours. An updated Employee Benefits policy now lists vision insurance, which Alward said had always been offered but was previously omitted from the written policy.

Board members discussed a proposed health insurance opt-out policy that would rebate $1,000 for individual plans and $2,000 for family plans to employees eligible for other coverage; members supported the idea and directed staff to revise the policy for a future meeting.

Andrew reported FEMA has expanded designated floodplain areas within town limits, which will require future planning and compliance. The Water Commission is exploring training partnerships for water operators with Gateway and PVPC; PVPC has proposed a $185,000 contract for next fiscal year and the Selectboard asked for a breakdown of funds secured for the town versus administrative costs. Liz Massa raised questions about Hampden Park plantings and a $10,000 compactor reimbursement grant with a June 30 installation deadline; she said an extension has been requested.