6/9/2020 FINANCE COMMITTEE Minutes

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4 Board of Selectmen Minutes June 9, 2020 OLD BUSINESS Continue discussion on the June 15, 2020 Town Meeting Warrant; possible Action on Warrant Articles and Recommendations for the Special and Annual Town Meetings: Continued discussion of June 15, 2020 Town Meeting Warrant: (continued) Town Manager Rodney C. Collins acknowledged the Financial Team and its advisement in moving forward in a clear direction both in the long and short term upholding the integrity and stability of the AAA bond rating. With regards to the petition articles on the spring warrant, it was determined the petition articles would be deferred to the October Town Meeting. The petitioners are agreeable with the deferral that would assist to reduce the overall time spent at town meeting. In an effort to minimize the time expended at Town Meeting, the warrant articles have been combined where appropriate. The improved format will be presented to the Finance Committee this week, and printed online for the general public to review. Copies of the reduced arrangement of articles will also be made available and distributed at town meeting. It is uncertain as to the number of participants who will likely attend the spring Town Meeting. Although there is no quorum requirement for the Annual Town Meeting,the Special Town Meeting requires a quorum of 100. There has been ongoing discussions to possibly reduce the quorum under the mandates of M.G.L., if it becomes necessary. The Town is also taking precautionary measures to ensure the environment is safe at town meeting. This includes the practice of social distancing and the wearing of facial coverings for added protection. Masks will be required and would be made available for all persons entering the facility. It was suggested the Finance Committee and Town Officials arriving in advance of the meeting have the ability to check-in early to reduce the wait time entering the meeting. If the gymnasium reaches capacity, the cafeteria would be utilized to maintain the social distancing requirement. The Deputy Moderator will be present to facilitate this portion of the meeting if deemed necessary. It was noted the safety requirement for the re-opening of the public schools may be extensive and expensive. Town Manager Rodney C. Collins indicated the operational needs of the School Department would be addressed. A meeting is forthcoming with the School Superintendent to review mandates and recommendations for school safety. Lastly, the Finance Committee acknowledged the members both past and present who gave additional time to develop the tables of graphics, noteworthy and detailed information on the trends and budget comparisons that was included in the blue book this year.