Finance Committee Meeting

Minutes – September 10, 2007

Town Hall, Lower Level Hearing Room – 7:30 P.M.

Members Present:  Joel Alpert, Maria Anderson, Charles Goodman, Jonathan Hitter, Josh

                               Kiernan, Ira Miller (late), Laura Nelson, Edward Philips, Gregory

                               Sydney (Hamilton)

                Absent:   Brian Fitzgerald, Gordon Gladstone, Joel Lessard

1. The first item on the agenda was the Historical Commission regarding the naming of the ballroom at the Community Center.

2. David Martin, Chair, reported that the Selectmen had asked the Historical Commission about naming the ballroom for David Clifton.  He stated that they don’t have authority of naming rooms, just buildings, but they did vote to support it.

3. The next item on the agenda was a presentation by the Planning Consultant, Jennifer Goldson, for the Community Preservation Committee.  She stated what she has been doing for Sharon and other communities regarding the Community Preservation Act.

4. There was much discussion held regarding the cost of projects, priorities of projects, debt involved, and percentage of funding from the state being reduced.

5. The next item on the agenda was discussion of Community Preservation Committee Warrant Articles for Fall Town Meeting with George Bailey, Chair.

6. There was considerable discussion regarding these articles.

7. OTHER BUSINESS

8. Joel Alpert reported on his subcommittee and he should have information in a week or two.

9. Chuck Goodman reported on the Finance Director/Treasurer/Accountant Screening Committee.  Three candidates were selected and would be going before the Selectmen in the very near future.

10. Ira Miller reported that there was a consultant hired to review the structure of town finances.

11. There was some discussion held by the Finance Committee, and a full report should be available soon.

12. There was some discussion regarding making recommendations on the Warrant articles and more information needed within the next few weeks.

13. The next item on the agenda was to approve the Minutes.

14. A MOTION was made by Joel Alpert and SECONDED by Laura Nelson to approve the minutes of August 13, 2007, as written.

15. VOTED:  5-0-4.

16. The next meeting will be September 17.

17. It was MOVED and SECONDED to adjourn.

18. VOTED:  9-0-0.

19. The meeting was adjourned at 9:35 p.m.