Select Board weighs options after research shows no automatic exemption from appointment age limits; approves FY27 appointments by consent

Town staff told the Select Board on June 22 that previously assumed exemptions to mandatory‑retirement age for certain appointed public‑safety roles do not apply under current law, leaving the town unable to reappoint two long‑serving individuals to certified positions after July 1 without further action.

Board and staff discussed options including: (1) asking the legislature for special legislation/home‑rule petition at the next town meeting; (2) proposing a special town meeting if residents gather sufficient petition signatures; or (3) creating alternate non‑certified roles (for example, mechanic or traffic support) that would allow an experienced resident to continue serving without the certified appointment.

One longtime volunteer said he remains medically certified and wishes to continue serving. “I’m completely certified… I love working in this town,” the speaker said, urging the board to look for ways to retain experienced volunteers while protecting the town’s legal exposure.

Board members encouraged chiefs to work with the town administrator and with neighboring chiefs (Chief Puland and Chief Bruno were mentioned) to identify operational roles that do not require statutory appointments. The board signaled support for pursuing a town‑meeting petition or a home‑rule request if the community wants to press the matter to the legislature; the transcript notes that representatives indicated willingness to bring such petitions if requested.

Separately, the board read and approved a long list of FY27 appointments by unanimous consent for terms beginning July 1, 2026, including election officers, building department appointments, fire department officers and call firefighters, and police personnel. The minutes record unanimous consent votes; roll‑call tallies were not provided.

Why it matters: statutory age limits affect the town’s ability to reappoint experienced volunteers to certified positions; the board must balance retaining expertise with statutory compliance and liability exposure.

Next steps: the town administrator and department chiefs will explore non‑certified assignments and, if the community desires, staff will develop language for a town‑meeting article to petition the legislature or support a special town meeting.