Selectmen authorized to seek approval for backhoe up to $60,000 from general fund; loader cap $15,000

Selectman Bunce reported on prior quotes for a new backhoe (recommended John Deere if buying new) but said a used machine might be preferable. He asked the board to allow him to pursue purchase of a used machine with a spending cap at town meeting; as recorded, "He is looking for the board to allow him up to $50,000 to purchase a used machine."

The board amended the request: Christian Allyn moved to raise the cap to $60,000 and to specify the funds come from the general fund; the amendment was seconded and the motion carried. Separately, the board authorized the selectmen to use up to $15,000 from the general fund for a loader/payloader. The minutes show both motions carried; quotes and vendor selection details were discussed but final procurement steps were to proceed through the selectmen and town meeting as required.