Talk Fast & 'They' Won't Notice

Because the STM for Nov. 5th was so hastily called in PANIC MODE, not on the BOS Agenda, the Warrant opened and closed so quickly, much was omitted and tossed into the CATCH ALL Article 1.



The IT Director stated on July 30, the total costs for the 7/28 STM were $74,450. No enumeration.



When questions arose at the STM Hearing 10/29, the IT Director indicated that the total costs were $98,709.48. (But in the fast-talking explanation, it became clear that the +$12K whatever that the Town Clerk expended was also not included because the $40K from the FinCom was used for that. So in other words, the $98K is still not a complete figure.)



Because of the haste of the process, Article 6, totalling $42,464.42, omits some of the costs.
(And lacking in the discussion was an explanation of the $715.99 for 'misc. Supplies.')



When a question was asked and the IT Director rose to address it, Chairwoman Brunelle told him to address that question QUICKLY. Why QUICKLY? Isn't the purpose of a public hearing to ask and answer questions?



Although Chairwoman Brunelle indicated that the total figures were not known when the Warrant was hastily constructed, the memo from the Police Chief is dated SEPTEMBER.



And Selectman Perkins, rather than ensuring that the accounting question was clearly answered, indicated that he hoped someone could answer the questions on Town Meeting floor. Huh? So he's willing to submit expenditures for which he lacks an adequate accounting?

Is there a problem answering the questions asked in a public hearing accurately and completely?



Of note in Mr. Brunelle's hasty explanation is:



The Peirce Trustees paid $33,000 for the tents. Was that to avoid 30B Procurement reguirments (http://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/mgl/gl-30b-toc.htm) ?



$2100 was paid from the Cable Account for the audio system.



Again, simple math:

$98,709.48

-33,000 Peirce Trustees

-2100 Cable Account

-42,464.42 Article 6

=$21,145.06 And this is where?


Toward the end of the BOS Meeting, Chairwoman Brunelle commented that during the Recall process accusations of lack of transparency had been made. Is this transparent and clearly explained?