Hollis Select Board Transparency Archive

Good morning -

Busy week - not all business, however. I was off on Tuesday and Wednesday.

I interviewed candidates for the Deputy Tax/Treasurer position. Great candidates and they will be meeting with the Treasurer and Tax Collector later this week.

A couple of residents with questions about roads, land use and similar stuff.

Discussed a workshop session - open to area municipalities and the public regarding recent Housing Legislation. This is planned for September 8 from 5pm to 7pm. Hosted by SMPC and broadcast / recorded. Jamel informed my that 50+/- people typically show for these.

Alan has zeroed in on a small John Deere tractor with mower deck and bucket. The P/O will be in the mix on Wednesday. Next will be the structure to house it.

Met with an economic developer to discuss the TIF future and related. More on that when we have more to talk about.

A reminder -

With the transition to a TM form of government there are statutory and legal guidelines that need to be followed. The most significant is the roles and duties of the Select Board and their involvement with the employees and day-to-day administrative function of the Town. The Town Manager form of government separates the political policy-making from the daily admin / operation of the municipality. The Board acts as a unit / body and not individually.

That has clearly been a difficult pill to swallow here and it appears to continue to be.

I avoided a challenging situation on Friday when one of the Board asked for a key - a master key to this building. That request put Bennet in a difficult situation. That is totally out of bounds. The Select Board is welcomed here during business hours and welcomed to the Meeting room when needed. That is partially why there are two alarm and access systems. Other that that the Town Hall is off limits. Please return the key to avoid further disruption and a scene.

Part of the change also by statute requires Board members to direct their interaction with employees through my office - and me. Again - it is a dramatic difference from a short 13-14 months ago.but clearly was adopted by public vote with over 65% in favor. I am asking that we all honor the wishes of the residents of this Town.

More to follow I am sure. A reasonably busy week ahead.

Richard Morin

Town Manager

Town of Hollis, Maine