Road crew addresses washouts and grading; town accepts donated skatepark equipment from Sunapee

At the Board of Selectmen meeting on Aug. 12, Road Agent Tim Hayes updated the Board on highway operations and a recreational equipment donation.

Hayes said Sean Gaherty started July 29 as a part‑time highway employee (20 hours per week) and is performing well. The road crew is addressing washouts and grading town roads; most roads have been graded once, some multiple times because of rain and traffic. Hayes said a deep pipe replacement on Sanborn Hill will likely require a private excavator and quoted an estimated cost in the range of $500–$600 for excavator assistance with town crew support; the Board asked Hayes to obtain a written estimate and confirm insurance before proceeding.

The town has received donated skatepark equipment from Sunapee. Hayes said retrieval will require at least three flatbed trailer trips; Sunapee will assist with loading and a local volunteer named Ian will help with layout and setup. Tamara will contact Primex regarding signage and liability language (for example, signage noting "use at your own risk"). Hayes said the crew is also preparing equipment for winter and will begin culvert work on Old Grafton Road.

Poul Heilmann reported that conversations indicate the town's old grader will likely go to auction; the grader committee plans further meetings in September to consider replacement options. The Board entered a brief nonpublic session later in the evening and adjourned at 6:41 p.m.

Next steps: Hayes will request a written excavator estimate and insurance documentation; the Board will invite Ian to present a layout at a future meeting and Tamara will consult Primex on signage.