Introduction
In the Granby MA Selectboard meeting held on January 3rd, 2023, several important topics were discussed, including the upcoming departmental budget meetings and the appointment of a new police officer. This article will provide a detailed overview of the meeting, highlighting key points and decisions made by the board. Let’s dive into the discussion in more detail.
Departmental Budget Meetings
One of the main topics discussed in the meeting was the schedule for the upcoming departmental budget meetings. These meetings are held annually to review the budget submissions from all the departments under the board’s control for the upcoming fiscal year 2024. Typically, the meetings take place over two nights, with each department allotted around 45 minutes for their presentation. The board members were asked to provide two dates for the meetings to notify the department heads. It was suggested that the meetings be scheduled back to back on a Tuesday and Thursday to streamline the process. However, the final decision on the meeting dates will be based on the availability and convenience of the board members.
Appointment of a Police Officer
During the meeting, the board discussed the appointment of a new police officer, Mr. Jorgensen. It was revealed that Mr. Jorgensen had successfully completed the Bridge Academy, which is part of the Cop’s Grant awarded to the town. The Cop’s Grant provides funding for employing a new full-time police officer. As a result of completing the Bridge Academy and accumulating the required hours, Mr. Jorgensen was now certified as a full-time police officer. The board expressed their congratulations to Mr. Jorgensen and highlighted the positive impact his appointment would have on the staffing and overtime issues within the police department. The appointment was proposed for one year, from January 8, 2023, to January 7, 2024, with a three-month probationary period, as per the board’s standard practice. The motion to approve Mr. Jorgensen’s appointment was unanimously passed, and the board welcomed him to the Granby Police Department.
Citizen Participation
The meeting also provided an opportunity for citizen participation. Mr. George Randall addressed the board, expressing his gratitude for being allowed access to the Dufrain Park with a motorized vehicle for his research work. He reported that he had located two dead trees, one of which was believed to have been the largest tree in the state. Mr. Randall mentioned that he would submit a detailed report and photographs for the board’s consideration. The board thanked Mr. Randall for his efforts and assured him that his report would be eagerly awaited.
Maintenance Warrants
The meeting concluded with the approval of maintenance warrants. The board reviewed and approved several warrants, including bills payable warrants and payroll warrants. These warrants included payments for various services and expenses, such as animal inspections, water softener system repairs, and electrical repairs. The board sought clarification on certain items listed in the warrants, such as the purpose of the animal inspections and the source of electricity. It was explained that the inspections were conducted annually to count the animals at the farms, and the electricity was sourced partly from a solar field, for which the town received a credit on their National Grid bill.
Conclusion
The Granby MA Selectboard meeting on January 3rd, 2023, covered important topics related to the departmental budget meetings and the appointment of a new police officer. The board discussed the schedule for the budget meetings and emphasized the need for dedicated time to review the budget submissions. The appointment of Mr. Jorgensen as a full-time police officer was unanimously approved, bringing relief to the staffing and overtime issues within the police department. The meeting also included citizen participation, with Mr. George Randall sharing his research findings on the Dufrain Park. Finally, the board approved maintenance warrants, addressing various services and repairs needed in the town. Overall, the meeting was productive, with important decisions being made to ensure the smooth functioning of the town of Granby.