Selectmen review Consolidated/CCI broadband contract and budget lines ahead of winter budgeting

Town Manager Billings updated the selectmen on a Consolidated/CCI fiber proposal and the draft contract during the Dec. 21, 2020 meeting. The contract is based on the provider’s standard template and staff compared it to Brooklin’s agreement. Selectman Travis Fifield said he had not received the contract and asked to review it; TM resent the document during the meeting.

TM reported that Consolidated representatives (Henry and Ian referenced in the record) are available to answer questions. The board asked the TM to check specific language about contingency extra charges in the agreement, particularly for sites that require additional work beyond simple equipment replacement or upgrade.

The meeting also devoted substantial time to budget lines (planning board, code enforcement, animal control officer, and other third-party requests). TM said third-party funding requests and nomination papers are due Jan. 4 and that staff will prepare detailed 3rd-party request and financial lists for review.

No contract vote was taken; the Selectmen asked for additional review and clarity on contract scope and costs before a decision.

The board separately approved routine warrants and minutes and continued work on capital project priorities.