In a recent meeting held on November 6, 2024, the Town of Mansfield Select Board addressed two significant issues impacting the community: adjustments to nonunion employee longevity pay and a request for emergency water supply assistance to the City of Attleboro.

The board discussed proposed changes to the longevity pay structure for nonunion professionals, aiming to align their compensation with that of union employees. The adjustments include incremental increases based on years of service, with payments rising from $400 after five years to $950 after 30 years. This move is intended to ensure that nonunion staff do not fall behind their union counterparts, reflecting a commitment to equitable compensation across the town's workforce. The board debated the necessity of their approval for these changes, with some members questioning the precedent for such a vote. Ultimately, the board voted in favor of the adjustments, emphasizing the importance of maintaining competitive pay for all town employees.

In a separate discussion, the board considered a request from Attleboro's Mayor Kathleen DeSimone for emergency water supply assistance due to a declared water emergency in her city. Mansfield has the capacity to provide a minimum of 250,000 gallons of water per day, with the potential to increase this amount to 400,000 or 500,000 gallons, depending on local water levels. The board confirmed that any costs incurred would be the responsibility of Attleboro, and they assured that Mansfield's water supply would remain secure during this arrangement. The emergency measure is designed to support Attleboro's urgent need for water while ensuring that Mansfield's resources are prioritized.

The discussions highlighted the town's proactive approach to employee compensation and community support during emergencies. As the board moves forward, the implications of these decisions will likely resonate throughout the town, reinforcing the importance of equitable treatment for employees and collaboration with neighboring communities in times of need.