On March 15, the Andover Board of Selectmen held its first work session since Town Meeting and the election of Duncan Coolidge to the Board. As in years past, the Board discussed the issues, lessons, and concerns expressed at Town Meeting and the overall role played by the Selectmen.

As clearly shown in the photo in the March 16th Concord Monitor, our postures and expressions were less than positive and in great need of improvement. More concerning to the Board was a sense of disenfranchisement and of fait accompli expressed by several members of our community who spoke at the microphone. While discussing Warrant Article 20 (exemption of solar, wind, and wood energy generation equipment from a property’s assessed value), this negative sentiment was not only palpable but uncomfortable for us. Also, several issues and perspectives where raised that had not been considered and warrant additional investigation.

However, Town Meeting is not the beginning, but the culmination of four months of public meetings and exchanges. The Board actively supports additional public involvement in the Budget Meetings leading up to Town Meeting, as this will lead to deeper consideration and ultimately greater consensus.

This year’s meeting went quickly, and most items passed as presented and recommended by the Budget Committee and the Board. The continued support for the capital reserve funds and for recreational and social programs was also a highlight of the meeting. It should also be noted that the vast majority of those attending the meeting fully supported the budget as recommended.

The Board will release in the May issue of the Beacon the full scope of changes that will take place at the Transfer Station to accommodate single stream recycling. The plan is to phase in changes starting in May and be fully functional by July 1. The Board is expecting these changes to reduce both the operational budget and tipping fees.

The last issue, addressed at the start and end of Town Meeting, was the role that the Board plays to enforce the rules and regulations of the state of New Hampshire. As New Hampshire is not a “home rule” state, the Board’s authority is limited by statute. We only have the authority that the state legislature has given us, and we must work within those limitations.

The Board plans to address all concerns raised at Town Meeting directly and with full transparency. If you have questions or concerns please contact us or the Town Administrator.

Finally, we wish to thank Don Gross for his service to the town over the past three years.