About this Video

• Video Title: Dalton Select Board Meeting March 31 2025
• Channel: Dalton Community Television
• Speakers: Multiple speakers including the board chair, Henry Rose, Mr. Hustler, Mr. Kelly, John, Vince, Lori, Dan, Tom, Robert, and Craig Boomer. Many other individuals speak but are not identified by name.
• Duration: 00:54:32

Introduction

This video records a Dalton Select Board meeting held on March 31, 2025. The meeting covers various agenda items, including approval of meeting minutes, appointments to the town manager screening committee, budget planning (particularly focusing on FY26 budget and potential Proposition 2 1/2 override), and discussion of various town contracts and policies. Public comment is also included.

Key Takeaways

• Meeting Minutes Approved: The Select Board approved the minutes from February 10th, 24th, and March 3rd, 2025 meetings.
• Town Manager Screening Committee Appointed: The board appointed Lori Marelli, Malia Carlado, John Bartell, Deborah Mary, and John Kelly to the town manager screening committee. The process of selecting these individuals is discussed.
• FY26 Budget Review: A review of the FY26 budget, including significant increases in vocational education and sewer treatment costs, was conducted. Discussion included the impact of student enrollment changes on school budgets and the rising costs associated with the intergovernmental sewer agreement with Pittsfield.
• Proposition 2 1/2 Override Discussion: The board discussed the possibility of a Proposition 2 1/2 override to address budgetary constraints, considering factors like salary increases and potential future needs. The board's accountant's opinion is that it's unnecessary currently, but it's presented as a possible future option to maintain services.
• Contracts Signed: The board approved and signed contracts with the Dalton Dispatchers Association and the Highway Department. The police union contract was postponed to the next meeting.
• Bylaw Clarification: A change to a town bylaw regarding noise complaints was introduced, clarifying the roles of the police department (residential complaints) and the Board of Health (commercial/industrial complaints).