Trustees approve elevating deputy to full time after insurance squeeze; 3–2 vote

Marshal Marshall Goings told the board that part‑time Deputy Will Starks is roughly 50 hours short of the town’s 32‑hour threshold for full‑time classification and that the shift would trigger a sharp rise in the deputy’s personal insurance costs.

"He's taken home about $30,000 a year," Goings said, and he warned that "a 6 to $8,000 hit to him will be a a very big, issue." He presented three options: make Starks full time (estimated cost to the town about $55,000 a year), continue part time while purchasing insurance through the town (about $49,000), or not replace him (save about $37,000).

Trustees debated budget impacts and alternatives, including replacement costs the marshal estimated at roughly $41,500 if the town had to hire and train a new part‑time deputy. Trustee John Bell moved to pursue the full‑time option; the motion was seconded and carried 3–2 after discussion about reserves and timing. Supporters emphasized retention and operating capacity for the small department; opponents asked for more time to review the revised 2025 budget before committing new recurring costs.

Trustee Sundee King announced the outcome: "But it has carried 3 to 2." The board directed staff to memorialize the change and follow up on implementation and payroll details.

The decision is procedural: the motion directs staff to pursue elevating Starks' hours. Any contractual changes, payroll adjustments and benefit enrollment will follow standard hiring and benefits processes and be brought back to the board if additional formal action is required.