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Board debates $4/hour mowing pay request, considers interim $2 compromise and long-term equipment purchase
Summary
A contractor asked for a $4/hour increase citing repair costs; the Selectboard said the budget is set and suggested an interim $2/hour adjustment or exploring purchase of a municipal tractor to reduce future contractor dependency.
A mowing contractor requested a $4/hour pay increase after reporting roughly $3,000 in repairs last year; the Leicester Selectboard discussed the request and whether to alter the already-adopted budget. The board noted that compensation revision requests should ideally be made prior to budget adoption and suggested a compromise offer of $2/hour as an immediate accommodation while exploring longer-term options such as buying a tractor or higher‑capacity mower.
"He called to say that he wanted to have $4 an hour more," Chair said while summarizing the contractor’s request. Board members discussed the contractor’s age and health as a factor in long-term continuity, and whether other providers exist locally. One member proposed starting a capital plan to buy a tractor or larger mower to reduce contracted mowing costs in future years.
The board directed staff to contact the contractor (Glenn) to communicate the board’s position—possible $2/hour compromise for this budget year—and requested a follow-up report on alternatives and a potential capital plan.
