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Hinsdale policy allows sealed minutes for certain non-public sessions under RSA 91-A
Summary
Policy 2025-04 permits withholding minutes of non-public sessions (personnel, medical, confidential matters) only by a recorded two-thirds vote and allows withholding until a later majority determines circumstances no longer apply.
The Town of Hinsdale policy outlines narrow exemptions permitting withholding minutes from public inspection for internal personnel practices and other matters that would constitute an invasion of privacy, citing RSA 91-A:3. The document explains that minutes of non-public sessions shall be kept but may be withheld only if a recorded vote of two-thirds of members present determines divulgence would adversely affect a person's reputation or render a proposed action ineffective.
The policy describes the mechanism for sealed minutes and a process for release: if such a two-thirds vote authorizes withholding, the minutes are to be marked as "Sealed Minutes," and they may remain withheld "until, in the opinion of a majority of members, the circumstances no longer apply." The language emphasizes limited, statutory exceptions rather than a broad power to keep records closed.
