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Select Board approves temporary 15‑week grounds position to address staffing shortfall
Summary
West Newbury’s Select Board voted to add a temporary part‑time grounds and facilities position—15 hours per week for up to 15 weeks—at $23.57 per hour to keep parks and town properties maintained while staff recover from absences.
The West Newbury Select Board voted at its July meeting to add a temporary part‑time grounds and facilities position to the FY '27 salary schedule. Committee member (S2) moved to create a seasonal role for up to 15 weeks at 15 hours per week and $23.57 per hour; Chair (S3) seconded and the motion passed on voice vote.
Staff member (S1) told the board the position was needed because the town’s custodian has been out with health issues and other projects have left outdoor maintenance understaffed. S1 estimated the cost for the season at about $5,400 and said the role could be absorbed within the operating budget or split with park‑and‑rec revolving funds. “It’s gonna take him 15 hours a week for the first two weeks just to get him caught up,” S4 (Facilities staff) said about the candidate being considered.
Board members discussed posting requirements and whether to hire an existing applicant directly; S1 noted that while the town generally posts positions, short temporary work sometimes can be filled more quickly. The motion’s parameters require no more than 15 weeks of work; the board agreed to treat it as a trial for the season and reassess staffing needs in the budget cycle.
