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Resident raises concern over town employee's social media posts; board directs supervisor to act
Summary
A resident told Stratford's Selectboard that a town employee's public social-media post reflected poorly on the department; the board directed the employee's supervisor to meet with and document the issue, and staff noted an unrelated advertised "poker run" lacked required permits.
A Stratford resident raised concerns Feb. 23 about a town employee's public social-media posting and the board agreed the matter required supervisor action. Scott Pitas told the Selectboard he and others wanted the town to be aware of an internet post they felt did not meet expectations for employees representing a town department.
Suzanne Goulet, speaking for staff, said the board reviewed personnel policy and concluded the supervisor should meet with the employee, document the conversation in the personnel file and monitor for any further incidents; progressive discipline was to be considered if problems continue. Suzanne said the employee must also complete outstanding employment paperwork and submit any required permit applications.
Suzanne told the board that a separate matter — an advertised "poker run" — had been publicly promoted without required permits. She emphasized that permits must be approved before events are promoted and that staff will follow up to ensure filings are finalized.
The staff report covered additional operational items: Suzanne will coordinate with local locksmiths to obtain additional keys for the bulletin board; snow currently prevents a proper inspection of basketball hoop posts and backboards, which will be evaluated for repair and painting when weather permits; Brian will oversee installation of a drip pan for the generator to address moisture concerns; and ice-rink location and snow-machine traffic will be reviewed for next season. The board also discussed phone service options but will not change providers until emergency-communications requirements are confirmed; Suzanne said she will contact E911 and state officials and that Vanessa Toner will review alternative provider options.
The board's next steps on the personnel matter are supervisory meeting, documentation in the personnel file and continued monitoring. Staff will follow up on permits and the other operational items at future meetings.
