During a recent government meeting, discussions centered on the upcoming transition of the town manager position, community concerns regarding local issues, and the status of ongoing projects.
The meeting began with acknowledgments of the current town manager's contributions, particularly in maintaining the town's AAA bond rating. The chair emphasized the importance of a smooth transition as the search for a new town manager begins, with a target date for the current manager's departure set around October 25th. The chair encouraged community support during this period, highlighting the potential for growth and unity amidst change.
Public inquiries included questions about the refurbishment of the Mill Pond fountains, which have reportedly been out of service. The chair suggested that the Rotary Club, responsible for the fountains, should be contacted for updates on their status.
Another pressing issue raised was the sighting of homeless individuals sleeping in cars around town. The chair advised that concerns should be directed to the police department, emphasizing the need for a compassionate approach while addressing the situation.
Community members also sought updates on the solar panel project, which is currently in the design phase but cannot proceed until the landfill project is completed and approved by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The timeline for the solar project remains uncertain, pending the landfill's closure.
Additionally, concerns were voiced regarding a recent customer satisfaction survey distributed by the municipal light board, which was criticized for its reliance on electronic responses. Community members expressed worry that a significant portion of the population, particularly the elderly, may be excluded from participating. Suggestions were made to provide hard copies of the survey to ensure broader community engagement.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from officials to address these concerns and improve communication with residents, particularly those who may not have access to digital platforms.