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Resident raises FOIA complaint, alleges date discrepancies in Fire Chief reports
Summary
Shane Brady told the Select Board the Fire Chief's incident-date records contain widespread mismatches and requested FOIA fee reimbursement; the Board urged following attorney guidance and encouraged a formal complaint form. The issue remains unresolved after the meeting.
Shane Brady, a Pownal resident, told the Select Board during public comment that multiple dates in the Fire Chief’s reports do not match the records he obtained under the Freedom of Information Act. "This isn't just one or two dates. This is 10 out of the 12 dates in the Fire Chiefs' reports that don't match up," Brady said, and he asked whether the Town would reimburse his FOIA-related payments if the records prove incorrect.
Chair Jon Morris responded that the Board would follow the town attorney’s advice and encouraged Brady to complete a formal complaint form. Morris also cautioned about public characterizations of the Board’s conduct, noting his concern about wording such as "wash your hands" during a public meeting. The Board did not resolve the discrepancy at the meeting and did not commit to reimbursement; Morris said the attorney will advise on next steps.
The exchange was contentious at times: Brady said he feared the issue might lead to litigation if not addressed, and the Chair repeatedly urged that Town legal counsel be consulted before any formal action. The matter was recorded during public comment and the Board did not take immediate action beyond advising procedural follow-up.
