Tuesday, October 27, 2026

Water and Sewer District geophysical survey request

Referred back to the Water Department to review the easement restrictions.

The Water and Sewer District asked permission to run geophysical surveys on town-owned land between Hilton Field and the railroad tracks, near the cemetery, to look for possible water sources. The work would include ground-penetrating radar, temporary markers or rods, and other testing. Two attendees raised concerns that a conservation easement requires the land to stay mostly natural, including whether drilling or well work would be allowed. The Select Board sent the request back to the Water Department to review the easement limits and decide if the testing is allowed.

Audit services bids

Approved the five-year contract with Plodzik Sanderson. All in favor; motion carried.

The Select Board compared five-year audit bids from Plodzik Sanderson and CLA. Plodzik Sanderson's first-year cost was about $16,500, and CLA's bid was about $57,000. The Board was satisfied with the current audit services and saw no need to change firms. It approved a five-year contract with Plodzik Sanderson.

Eversource new pole license

Approved the Eversource pole license. All in favor; motion carried.

The Select Board voted on a license for Eversource to install a new utility pole.

Accounts payable manifest

Reviewed and approved.

The Select Board reviewed and approved an accounts payable manifest (list of bills to be paid) of $21,721.55, with checks dated 10/30/26.

Library FY2027 budget presentation

Library trustees presented a proposed FY2027 budget with about $128,892 in operating costs and $30,268 in expected income. The net cost to the town is $98,624. Last year's budgeted town amount was $79,000, but actual spending was $91,594 because of extra expenses. The new figure is about 7.7% above last year's actual spending and 24.8% above last year's budgeted amount. The Select Board questioned using last year's actual spending as the starting point. It asked the trustees to review expenses and find possible cuts. The trustees said some trust funds can only be used for set purposes and they are checking with an advisor about allowed uses. The Board asked for timely financial reports and a clearer match between actual spending and appropriations. The Board said money from the undesignated fund balance (unspent town savings) will not be available to offset expenses this year. Detailed salary information, including paid time off for part-time staff, will be discussed later. The Board was invited to the trustees' November 9 meeting, and Cat or Mark will attend.

Library building and security improvements warrant article

The library trustees proposed a separate $5,000 warrant article (a question for voters), funded from undesignated funds, for building and security work. The work includes front-step repairs, side-door exit steps, rear-entry door repairs, and staff panic buttons. The rear driveway was also discussed, and Mark estimated it would cost $15,000 to $20,000. The Select Board asked for more cost estimates and a clearer list of priorities before deciding on the article amount.

Public Safety Building design review

The Select Board reviewed a smaller design for the Public Safety Building, about 15,300 square feet. It keeps key functions such as decontamination access and vehicle exhaust systems. Wetland and stormwater concerns were addressed through design changes and possible mitigation. Plans, renderings, a website and FAQs will be available on Election Day to inform the public.

County tax warrant acknowledgment

The Board acknowledged the 2026 Rockingham County tax warrant in the amount of $310,034.