Select Board — March 19, 2026
The temperature was elevated by a split vote on equipment and the significant, off-agenda discussion regarding the legal status of town boards.
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Transparency Alert: During the March 19 Select Board meeting, a significant governance issue was discussed that was not included on the public agenda.
While the Board was ostensibly reviewing volunteer applications, the conversation shifted to a substantive discussion regarding eleven expired positions on various town boards and committees. Most concerning was the discussion regarding the 'de facto doctrine' and the legal status of these boards. Because this was not on the agenda, residents were denied the opportunity to prepare for or participate in a discussion that directly impacts the legitimacy of our local government.
In addition to this off-agenda discussion, the Board showed internal division regarding procurement procedures. A 2-1 vote on the purchase of a highway department hotbox highlighted a disagreement over whether the town followed proper protocol regarding the requirement for three quotes versus Town Meeting approval.
As taxpayers, we rely on the Select Board to follow transparent processes. When major discussions about the validity of town leadership happen without public notice, it undermines community trust and accountability.
Public impact
Significant concerns regarding town cash flow for monthly installments of the school assessment.
Topics discussed
The Conservation Commission proposed creating a walking trail on the McDonough property using hand tools, running from Dyers Crossing to the Koron property.
The Board reviewed the minutes from March 5 and March 11, 2026, including a discussion regarding the de facto doctrine and the status of expired board terms.
Discussions regarding quotes for a hotbox (Article 5), a new highway equipment trailer, and the purchase of a new welder.
The Board discussed the eleven expired positions on town boards and committees and the application process for new members.
The Board discussed replacing a dead maple tree on the town green, with a proposal for a sponsorship.
Review of suggested goals such as road inventory, master plan, and the town website.
Review of the estimated 2026–2027 school assessment and concerns regarding town cash flow for monthly installments.
Controversy & dissent
Potentially controversial issues
Town Board Vacancies and De Facto Doctrine
Highway Department Hotbox Purchase
Split votes
Community vs. board tension
Public comment
Decisions logged
Action items
Member positions
Positions marked ~ are inferred from context and may not reflect the member's explicitly stated position. UNCLEAR means the vote was split but the record did not name how this member voted — it is not a “yes.”
Accountability flags
Agenda items not discussed
Topics discussed — not on agenda
Transcript vs. official minutes
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grok-4.3, grok-4.20-0309-reasoning, gemma-4-26b · analyzed 2026-06-01.
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