Brookfield Board handles spending controls, records access, transfer-station logistics and signs beach-testing agreement

Board members reviewed an accountant-issued memo reminding the board of temporary spending controls that limit non-essential expenditures and asked staff to ensure access to shared budget spreadsheets stored on SharePoint so members can review warrants and permit-related charges.

The board discussed transfer-station logistics including an apparent shortage of trash bags (members referenced ordering 26 cases) and whether to continue accepting money orders or to allow cash or card payments. Members planned an inventory check at the transfer station and agreed to follow up with the select board or the town accountant if policy changes were required.

The board reviewed a quote and moved to sign an agreement for beach E. coli testing; members discussed scheduling a test near Memorial Day (end of May) to ensure results are available before the widely used June 1 beach-opening window. The board noted that weekly results must be posted to the state portal and urged communications staff to link the state beach-testing portal on the town website when feasible.

The board also discussed a recent sensitive housing case that had limited, confidential handling and asked for improved interjurisdictional communication with the inspectional services staff in Lester when coordination is needed. No formal regulatory actions or budget votes were taken at the meeting beyond the authorization to sign the water-testing agreement and several routine motions (minutes approval, agenda order, fee refund for a withdrawn perk test).