Town of Princeton, Mass. – Jan. 9, 2017
Executive Session Minutes - BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Executive Session
7:30 PM Selectmen took roll call vote in regular session and opened executive session. The Selectmen discussed the Fire Chief’s contract and want to meet in executive session with John Bennett on Jan. 17. Discussion turned to an incident in which Jon F. expressed concern to Dep. Chief Tim Kelly about the department losing two key staff recently. Nina reported that John B. subsequently mentioned his interpretation of the BOS approach to the fire chief position.
Selectmen then reviewed the history of fire chiefs in town, moving from part-time to full-time and back, and para-medic qualifications. They noted that John B. had filled the position P/T in an emergency situation after the conviction of David Cobb. They are still debating the parameters of the chief’s position, which had been subject to a study by a committee some years ago. Systems have improved with the ambulance staff now in the station, so residents are receiving the high-quality medical emergency service that has been a long-time goal. It was noted by Jon that the reason the department can function with a part-time chief who is because staff, especially Tim K., are there to “carry the station.” Jon F. wants to see a fire
chief who is on-site whether it full-time or part-time. Nina mentioned a conversation with John B. that morning where he expressed his concerns with the Board’s approach. She clarified the use of executive session, namely that the Board of Selectmen did have the authority to discuss these matters in executive session in the past, as they pertained to the renewal of a contract.
Selectmen have discussed a timeframe for the chief’s contract that could be shorter than the three-year which he is requesting. The Selectmen agreed that the entire issue is not included with this year’s goals but they will address it in the future.
7:30 PM Selectmen closed the executive session with Stan making a motion to adjourn, Jon seconded and in roll call vote they adjourned with Jon, Edith and Stan each saying “aye.”
Respectfully submitted, Marie Auger, admin. assist.
BOS Referenced Documents: Fire Chief’s contract
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