Select Board — May 20, 2026
Board waived deeds on $146k in back taxes with no prior public notice
The meeting consisted of standard departmental reports, one resident presentation on financial controls that the board addressed directly, and routine operational decisions with no split votes or sustained disagreement.
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At the May 20 Select Board meeting, the board made two notable decisions that deserve resident attention.
First, without any prior notice on the public agenda, the board discussed and then voted to grant another year of deed waivers on two large delinquent tax properties. These two parcels alone account for approximately $146,000 — or 60% of all unpaid property taxes owed to the town. Rather than proceeding with tax deeds, the board is continuing to defer collection while hoping to recover the principal and interest later. The Town Administrator will notify the owners that additional waivers cannot be assumed. All Plainfield taxpayers are bearing the cost of this ongoing delay.
Second, resident Maria Guzman presented a detailed analysis of town financial records from 2008 through 2024. She outlined structural vulnerabilities in financial controls and questioned whether the annual audits provide sufficient protection. The board’s response was that Plodzik & Sanderson performs audits that meet all state requirements and that the reports are available on the town website. No additional review or agenda item was scheduled.
These are exactly the kinds of fiscal decisions that directly affect every resident’s tax bill and trust in local government. When significant tax enforcement choices and long-term financial oversight concerns are handled without advance public notice, residents cannot meaningfully participate.
Public impact
Two properties represent approximately 60% of the town's total unpaid property taxes ($146,000)
The Board voted to sign deed waivers for one additional year in hopes of eventually recovering principal and interest.
Town Administrator will notify the owners that future waivers are not guaranteed and that progress toward payment is expected.
Rising diesel fuel costs and planned paving of specific roads (Baynes, Whitney, Thompson Cheese) amid overall budget pressure
The Board accepted the report and asked for additional paving quotes.
Rich Collins is seeking further paving quotes; monthly written reports will be provided.
Topics discussed
Maria Guzman presented an analysis regarding structural vulnerabilities in town financial controls and the adequacy of annual audits.
The Select Board noted that audits are conducted annually by Plodzik & Sanderson, meet all state requirements, and are available on the town website.
Discussion regarding the availability of NH Broadband fiber internet through New Hampshire Electric Cooperative.
The group discussed improving public awareness through various communication channels.
Potential website notices, mailings, or newsletter items to inform residents.
Update on various municipal maintenance and construction projects including roofing and solar installations.
The highway garage project is nearing completion, and the library solar project is expected to finish next month.
A slate roofing assessment of town buildings is scheduled for the next two weeks.
Report on recent emergency responses, motorcycle speed enforcement, and equipment upgrades.
The department also completed a bike safety event and upgraded to a more cost-effective Xerox copier.
Working with New Hampshire State Police to obtain warrants using social media evidence.
Report on road grading, ditching, and upcoming paving plans amid rising fuel costs.
The Board accepted the report and requested monthly written reports moving forward.
Rich Collins is seeking additional paving quotes.
Announcement of an upcoming school emergency drill simulating a brush fire.
Parents have been notified through the Blackhawk’s Bulletin.
A 'hot wash' debriefing will be held immediately after the drill with school staff and EMTs.
Overview of recent calls, equipment maintenance, and upcoming training and grant applications.
The department is preparing a FEMA grant application.
Submission of the FEMA Assistance to Firefighters grant application by June 22.
Review of two significant outstanding property tax liens totaling approximately $146,000.
The Board decided to sign deed waivers for one more year for both properties in hopes of recovering principal and interest.
Town Administrator to inform owners that future waivers are not guaranteed.
Review and execution of a cable television service extension.
The agreement was reviewed and signed.
Controversy & dissent
Potentially controversial issues
Town Financial Records Analysis
Public comment
Decisions logged
Action items
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xai.grok-4.3, grok-4.20-0309-non-reasoning, grok-4.20-0309-reasoning · analyzed 2026-07-25.
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