Town Accountant

Recently, Middleboro Selectmen hired a Town Accountant whose hiring and contract raises many significant issues, including a 4 day work week for $75,000 per year.

The following job listings are currently posted on MMA:

Accountant, Town of East Longmeadow
The town of East Longmeadow is seeking qualified applicants for the full-time position of Town Accountant. Position works under the general supervision and administrative direction of the board of selectmen. Responsibilities include financial monitoring of the budget, maintaining comprehensive financial records, generating required periodic reports, working closely with the appropriations committee and all town departments in budget preparation, and monitoring and supervision of department staff. Qualified candidates will have a bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field, MBA preferred; minimum of five years’ experience in an equivalent accounting position; managerial/supervisory experience; and detailed knowledge of municipal finance software, MUNIS preferred. Must be certified in governmental accounting or able to obtain certification within the first two years of employment to keep the position. Salary range: $60,000.00-$68,000.00, with benefits. MMA

East Longmeadow's Web Site

(E. Longmeadow's stats: 2006 Est. population: 14,937; FY 07 Operating Budget: ~ $45 million)

Town Accountant, Town of Marshfield
The town of Marshfield (budget $79 million) is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Town Accountant. The Town Accountant is a key member of the town’s financial team that also includes the town administrator and treasurer collector. Specific responsibilities include maintenance of accounting records in accordance with the UMAS system, GASB and DOR regulations; preparation of Schedule A, the tax recap sheet and other required reports; preparation and approval of payroll and vendor warrants and performance of other required duties of the Town Accountant. Duties include, but are not limited to, accounting for revenues and expenditures, financial analysis and reporting, and assistance with budget preparation. The applicant should have strong communication skills and be willing and able to work in a team environment. A thorough knowledge of UMAS, GASB and Massachusetts General Laws relating to municipal finance and experience with Excel and municipal accounting software ( i.e Softright) is essential. Requirements also include a bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field plus a minimum of five years’ experience in Massachusetts municipal accounting. Maximum salary for qualified selected candidate is $80,000. Salary dependent upon qualifications. MMA

Marshfield's Web Site

(Marshfield stats: estimated 2006 population: 24,836)

Town Accountant

Town of Northborough

The town administrator’s office is currently accepting applications for the position of Town Accountant. Responsible for the oversight of the accounting office; development of reports illustrating the town’s financial condition; the maintenance of financial records; and the control of town fund expenditures. Position requires a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in accounting and five to seven years of job-related experience; or any equivalent combination of education and experience. Master’s degree in accounting is preferred and certification with the Massachusetts Municipal Auditor and Accounting Association is highly desirable. Prior municipal experience and supervisory experience is desirable. Salary range: $60,761-$78,989, depending upon qualifications, plus excellent benefits. MMA

Northbororugh's Web Site

(Northborough's stats: estimated 2006 population: 14,681; FY 07 operating budget: ~ $45 million)

Middleboro Town Accountant's Contract

AGREEMENT BETWEEN
THE TOWN OF MIDDLEBOROUGH and
STEVEN M. DOONEY

Whereas, the Town of Middleborough, acting by and through the Board of Selectmen, (hereinafter the "Town"), and Steven M. Dooney, (hereinafter, "Dooney"), are desirous of entering into an employment agreement pursuant to the provisions of G.L.Chapter 41, section 108N;

Whereas, the Town-desires to employ Dooney as the Town Accountant pursuant to the
authority granted to the Board of Selectmen;

Whereas, Dooney, is willing to perform the duties of Town Accountant subject to the
terms and conditions of this agreement;

Now therefore, in consideration of the covenants and undertakings contained herein, the Town and the Town Accountant hereby agree that the following terms and conditions shall govern salary and fringe benefits payable under this agreement. Said salary and benefits shall be subject to appropriation by Town Meeting.
ARTICLE 1. TERM

A. This agreement shall be effective October 9, 2007 and shall remain in effect for three (3) years until October 9, 2010, unless sooner terminated as hereinafter provided. Thereafter this agreement may be extended as provided by its terms.

B. Nothing in this agreement or any statute pertaining to Town Accountants, including without limitation M. G. L. c. 41, § 55, shall prevent, limit, or otherwise interfere with the right of the Town to end its obligations under this agreement and terminate the services of Dooney for any reason and without having to meet a just cause standard during a six (6) month probationary period beginning October 9, 2007 and ending March 9, 2008.

C. Nothing in this agreement shall prevent, limit or otherwise interfere with the right of Dooney to resign at any time upon sixty (60) days' written notice to the Board of Selectmen.

ARTICLE 2. DUTIES
A. As set forth in Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 41, Sections 55, 56, 57, 58,60 and 61, Dooney will, under the general direction of the Board of Selectmen, have full charge and responsibility for the operation and management of the office of Town Accountant.

B. Dooney will perform all of the duties set forth in the attached job description for the Town Accountant, which is incorporated by reference.

C. Dooney will provide all reports, accounts and documents reasonably necessary to complete the obligations of the Town Accountant.

D. Dooney will keep all town offices and departments advised of unexpended balances in the said appropriations.

E. Dooney will, at the close of each year, notify, in a timely manner,
the Board of Selectmen, by written memorandum, of the financial status of the Town as detailed in General Laws, Chapter 41.

F. Dooney will maintain a complete set of books for appropriations, expenditures, revenues, assessments and abatements.

G. Dooney will prepare review and submit all financial reports required by the
Department of Revenue, including Schedule A, Year End Balance Sheet, Audit Report, Quarterly Cash Reconciliation. Furthermore, Dooney will prepare annually, 5 year expenditure and revenue projections.

H. Dooney will perform all other duties not otherwise herein defined as may be
required by the position of Town Accountant by Middleborough Town Charter or as requested by the Board of Selectmen (as well as the Town Manager).

ARTICLE 3. INSURANCE
Dooney shall be eligible to enroll in the Town's health and life insurance programs in accordance with their terms. If he enrolls for health insurance, the Town will contribute up to 75 % (seventy five percent) of the monthly premium. He will be obligated to pay all other costs associated with the health insurance, including without limitation the balance of the monthly premium and any co-pays and deductibles. The Town will provide, at its expense, the standard life insurance that it provides other employees under M.G.L. c. 32B.

ARTICLE 4. COMPENSATION
A. The annual salary of the Town Accountant during the first year of the agreement shall be $75,000.00

B. Any increase in salary for the second and/or third years of the agreement shall be determined by the Board of Selectmen, subject to an annual performance evaluation and Town Meeting appropriation.

C. Dooney shall be entitled to any cost of living allowances that may be granted to any non-bargaining and/or collective bargaining agreement.

ARTICLE 5. HOURS OF WORK

A. Dooney's Town Accountant hours of work will consist of a 4 day work week and any additional hours reasonably necessary for him to faithfully perform the duties of the position, including but not limited to attendance at meetings, off site work via computer or telecommunications etc. as needed or required.

B. It is recognized that the Town Accountant position is exempt from federal and state statutory provisions governing hours of work and overtime.

ARTICLE 6.BENEFITS

All benefits shall accrue on a fiscal year basis.

A. Holidays--The Town Accountant shall be entitled to twelve (12) paid
holidays as follows:
New Year's Day
M.L. King Day
Presidents Day
Patriots Day
Memorial Day
Independence Day
Labor Day
Columbus Day
Veteran's Day
Thanksgiving Day
Day After Thanksgiving
Christmas

B. Vacation-Dooney shall be credited with (25) twenty-five days of vacation. During the completion of the six (6) month probationary period, up to two weeks vacation will be allowed. With advance request and approval of the Board of Selectmen, up to five days may be carried over to the next calendar year. Vacation time will be taken on a schedule that minimizes the disruption to the performance of the duties of Town Accountant.

C. Dooney shall be granted three (3) personal days, with pay, in each year of the agreement.

D. Dooney shall be granted five (5) days bereavement leave for immediate family members. Immediate family shall include spouse, parents, children, sibling, grandparents, grandchildren and in-laws. Vacation and/or personal days may be used if additional time is required and as approved by the Board of Selectmen.

E. Dooney shall be eligible for sick leave pursuant to the following schedule: Upon completion of the probation period, sick leave shall accrue at a rate of one and one-half (1 1/2) days per month, for a maximum of eighteen (18) days per calendar year. Unused sick leave may be accrued from year to year up to a maximum of 225 days. No compensation will be provided for unused sick leave.

ARTICLE 7. AUTOMOBILE EXPENSE
In accordance with the Town's Vehicle Use Policy, the Town shall reimburse Dooney at the prevailing per mile Town Rate.

ARTICLE 8. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Dooney will be allowed to attend any job-related conferences, meetings and seminars each year without a loss of vacation or other leave, and will be reimbursed by the Town for all reasonable expenses (including travel expenses) incurred while attending or traveling to the aforementioned, with the prior approval of the Board of Selectmen. Reimbursement will exclude all non-business related expenses.

ARTICLE 9. DUES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS
With the prior approval of the Board of Selectmen, the Town agrees to pay for Dooney's job-related professional dues and subscriptions for his continued participation in state and local associations and organizations necessary and desirable for his professional growth and advancement and for the good of the Town.

ARTICLE 10. DEATH DURING TERM OF EMPLOYMENT
If Dooney dies during the term of his employment, the Town shall pay to his estate, at such time as Town Meeting shall vote to appropriate, all the compensation which would otherwise be payable to him up to the date of death, including, but not limited to holidays, personal days, and unused vacation.

ARTICLE 11. SUSPENSION, DISCHARGE, ENDING TOWN'S OBLIGATIONS
In addition to its rights under the probationary period provisions set forth above, the Town may suspend without payor terminate Dooney' s employment, as well as end any of its obligations under this Agreement prior to March 1, 2010 for just cause, including without limitation the failure of Dooney to satisfactorily meet his obligations under this agreement.

A. Dooney shall be entitled to a hearing before the Board of Selectmen or its designee and the right to be represented by counsel, except that this shall only apply to suspensions without pay and/or a discharge.

B. Dooney may appeal any decision to suspend him without payor discharge him or to end the Town's obligations under the agreement to an arbitrator mutually selected by the Town and Dooney. Any appeal must be filed in writing thirty (30) days of Dooney's receipt of the Town's decision and it shall specify the grounds for the appeal. Failure to do so will result in a waiver of any appeal.

C. If Dooney and the Town are unable to agree, a labor/employment arbitrator will be selected and the issues decided under the procedures and rules of the American Arbitration Association pertaining to labor and employment disputes.

D. Dooney and the Town shall divide equally the costs of the arbitration, including the arbitrator's fees. Each side shall pay its own legal expenses.

ARTICLE 12. CONTRACT RENEWAL/TERMINATION

A. The term of this agreement shall be from October 9, 2007 throug October 9, 2010.

B. There will be an automatic extension of the agreement for a single, one year term, from October 9, 2010 through October 9, 2011, under the following conditions:

1. Between March 31, 2010 and April 30, 2010, Dooney notifies the Town in
writing that the March 31, 2010 automatic extension date for the agreement is approaching.

2. The Board fails to notify Dooney in writing by March 31, 2010 of its intention not to automatically extend the agreement at the end of its term. The notice may include a statement of the Board's willingness to attempt to negotiate a successor agreement without negating the notice of no automatic extension. Likewise, any subsequent negotiations shall not negate the notice of no automatic extension.

C. In the event that Dooney intends to resign voluntarily at any time following commencement of this original Agreement, he shall give the Town sixty (60) days' written notice in advance, unless the parties otherwise agree in writing. In such circumstances, Dooney shall only be
entitled to receive compensation due him up to the effective date of his resignation, including unused vacation leave.

ARTICLE 13~ GENERAL PROVISIONS
A. This Agreement is a Massachusetts contract and shall be governed by the
laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. If any of the provisions of this Agreement shall be determined illegal by a court of competent jurisdiction, such provision shall be considered null and void and shall not be binding on the parties hereto. In such event, the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect.
B. This Agreement supersedes any and all prior written or oral agreements and constitutes the entire agreement between the parties. No extension or modifications or same shall be effective unless by an instrument in writing duly executed by the parties.

ARTICLE 14. NON-WAIVER
No addition to, alteration, modification or waiver of any of the terms or provisions of this Agreement shall be valid, binding, or of any force and effect unless it is made in writing and executed by the parties hereto. The failure by either party in one or more instances to observe or enforce any provisions of this Agreement shall not be construed to be a waiver of said provisions.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereunto set their hands and seal by their duly authorized representatives this 17th day of September 2007.

(emphasis mine, format slightly changed because of blog software)

Municipal Job Openings

In order to understand Middleboro's fiscal situation, it's helpful to monitor other municipalities, their structures, their pay scales.

The following are listed on the MMA site:

City Auditor, City of Gloucester

The city of Gloucester is seeking applications for the position of City Auditor. This position is appointed by and reports to the city council. The Auditor is responsible for keeping the accounts of the city, maintaining the required financial records and the control of fund expenditures. The Auditor is also responsible for the development of reports illustrating the city’s financial condition and oversight of the city's financial management system. The Auditor provides financial analysis as requested by the city council including cost benefit analysis for budget and contract proposals. The Auditor serves as: liaison with independent auditing firms conducting the annual audit; ex-officio member of the Gloucester contributory retirement system and a voting member of the Gloucester community development loan committee and the tax incentive finance committee. This position requires a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in accounting and five to seven years of job-related experience; or any equivalent combination of education and experience. A master’s degree in accounting is preferred. Certification with the Massachusetts Municipal Auditor and Accounting Association is preferred. Prior municipal experience with supervisory responsibilities is preferred. Salary range: $58,353-$75,478, depending upon qualifications, excellent benefits are available. Please send resume and cover letter to City Clerk, City of Gloucester, 9 Dale Ave., Gloucester, MA 01930. Please place the word “Auditor” on the envelope. This solicitation will close on Jan. 31, 2008. (posted 12/19, exp. 1/31/08) MMA

Town Accountant
Town of Northborough

The town administrator’s office is currently accepting applications for the position of Town Accountant. Responsible for the oversight of the accounting office; development of reports illustrating the town’s financial condition; the maintenance of financial records; and the control of town fund expenditures. Position requires a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in accounting and five to seven years of job-related experience; or any equivalent combination of education and experience. Master’s degree in accounting is preferred and certification with the Massachusetts Municipal Auditor and Accounting Association is highly desirable. Prior municipal experience and supervisory experience is desirable. Salary range: $60,761-$78,989, depending upon qualifications, plus excellent benefits. Please send resume and letter of interest to Town Administrator, 63 Main St., Northborough, MA 01532. Submission deadline: Dec. 21, 2007, or until filled. AA/EOE (posted 12/03, exp.1/03/08) MMA

Town Accountant

Town of Marshfield

The town of Marshfield (budget $79 million) is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Town Accountant. The Town Accountant is a key member of the town’s financial team that also includes the town administrator and treasurer collector. Specific responsibilities include maintenance of accounting records in accordance with the UMAS system, GASB and DOR regulations; preparation of Schedule A, the tax recap sheet and other required reports; preparation and approval of payroll and vendor warrants and performance of other required duties of the Town Accountant. Duties include, but are not limited to, accounting for revenues and expenditures, financial analysis and reporting, and assistance with budget preparation. The applicant should have strong communication skills and be willing and able to work in a team environment. A thorough knowledge of UMAS, GASB and Massachusetts General Laws relating to municipal finance and experience with Excel and municipal accounting software ( i.e Softright) is essential. Requirements also include a bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field plus a minimum of five years’ experience in Massachusetts municipal accounting. Maximum salary for qualified selected candidate is $80,000. Salary dependent upon qualifications. Applications are requested by Jan. 4, 2007. Please submit resume and cover letter to Town Accountant Search Committee, Town of Marshfield Board of Selectmen, 870 Moraine St., Marshfield, MA 02050. (posted 11/28, exp. 1/04/08) MMA

Fire Chief, Town of Bedford

The town of Bedford (population 13,102) seeks qualified candidates for the position of Fire Chief. The Fire Chief reports to the town manager and supervises 26 firefighters. Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to; oversight of the fire department’s personnel, collective bargaining preparation with the town manager, maintenance of firefighting equipment and apparatus, establishment of training programs, maintenance of related records of departmental activity, on-scene command in serious/unusual emergency situations, formulation departmental policies, rules, regulations and procedures, preparation of departmental budget. Ten years of firefighting and command experience and an associate’s degree in fire science or administration or an equivalent combination of training and experience required. Desirable candidate will have a minimum of fifteen years of firefighting and command experience and a bachelor’s in administration or related field. Initial screening of candidates will be conducted in early March, 2008. Normal starting salary for FY08: $75,913-$92,044, depending on experience and education. The town of Bedford offers a comprehensive and generous benefits package. Application for employment may be downloaded at http://www.bedfordma.org . Please send resume, application, and letter of interest to Jessica Porter, Human Resources/Management Analyst, Town of Bedford, 10 Mudge Way Bedford, MA 01730 or fax to (781) 275-6310. Position will remain open until filled. The town of Bedford is an Affirmative Action / Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. (posted 12/20, exp. 1/20/08) MMA

Fire Chief

Town of Wrentham

The town of Wrentham is seeking an experienced individual to lead its full-service fire/emergency medical service department. The department’s uniformed staff includes the chief, deputy chief, four captains, 12 full-time firefighters, and 15 call firefighters, with an annual budget of $1.5 million. Wrentham is a high-growth community of 10,500 plus residents, located south of Boston, Mass. and north of Providence, Rhode Island. This position requires a bachelor’s degree in fire science, public or business administration or a related field. An EFO or CFO Certificate is desirable. A minimum of 10 years of fire/emergency medical services management experience with a wide-range of duties in fire/emergency services operations and management is required. A record of increasing responsibilities with strong professional, administrative leadership in a growing community is an important consideration. Past experiences must demonstrate a record of team building, dealing with growth planning, management, finance and human resources related to fire and emergency medical service. The applicant also must be familiar with state fire and building codes. Required licenses and certifications are as follows: Comm. of Mass. certified EMT-B (minimum) and a valid Comm. of Mass. Driver’s License within one year are required. Initial salary negotiable within existing range: $75,000-95,000, dependent upon qualifications and experience, supplemented by an excellent benefit package. The successful candidate would also be required to relocate to Wrentham or any contiguous town within one year of the appointment. Applicants shall submit a letter of application, detailed resume with salary history and work related references to: Mrs. Cindy Thompson, Wrentham Town Hall, 79 South St., Room 213, Wrentham, MA 02093, by Dec.31, 2007. (No e-mail or fax submissions will be accepted). The town of Wrentham is an Equal Opportunity Employer. (posted 11/26, exp. 12/31) MMA

IT Network Administrator

Town of Winchester

The town of Winchester (population 20,000) is seeking an IT Network Administrator. Under the supervision of the information technologies director, the Network Administrator will have overall responsibility for the day to day operation of the town’s local area and wide area networks. The Network Administrator will be responsible for network security, maintaining software/user licenses and for providing software and hardware troubleshooting assistance to departments. Position is responsible for the implementation, integration and system administration of servers, printers, and personal computers into the town’s network. Responsibilities: analyze current LAN/WAN and introduce future applications to meet the needs of the town services and operations; and update the town’s Web site and maintain the overall infrastructure of the website. B.S. in computer systems or equivalent required with minimum of three years’ experience in network computing and distributed systems, particularly with Windows Server systems; knowledge of Microsoft Exchange 2003, Cisco hardware and operating systems; and knowledge of networking protocols with emphasis on TCP/IP, HTML and JAVA, JavaScript, and graphic user interfaces. Salary range: $46,000-$65,188 depending upon qualifications and experience. Send cover letter and resume by December 28, 2007, to Melvin Kleckner, Town Manager, 71 Mt. Vernon St., Winchester, MA 01890, MMA

Current Job Listings

The following current job listing may be found on the MMA web site:

Chief Assessor, Town of West Newbury
The town of West Newbury seeks qualified candidates for the position of Chief Assessor. Under the direction of the finance director a three-member elected board of assessors, the Chief Assessor is responsible for the administrative, technical and supervisory work related to the valuation of all property within the town; for providing related financial information, analysis and consultation to the finance director and to other town departments; and for the management of the assessor’s office. Thorough knowledge of municipal law relating to the assessment of property and levying of taxes is required. Ability to perform in-house€ revaluations, knowledge and experience with appellate tax board procedures, and the ability to effectively utilize assessor’s computer applications (Patriot) is sought. Duties require skills equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in public administration, business, or finance, and five to seven years of progressively responsible experience, several of which were in a supervisory role. Must possess state certification and professional designation of Massachusetts Accredited Assessor (MAA). Salary commensurate with experience, minimum starting rate of $53,000. To apply, send resume to Town of West Newbury, Finance Director, 381 Main St., West Newbury, MA 01985, by Feb. 11, 2008. AA/EOE (posted 1/14, exp. 2/11) MMA

Director of Information Technology

Town of Lexington

The town seeks an experienced professional to join our management team. Position reports to the assistant town manager/finance. Duties include: supervise MIS staff, manage municipal networks, maintain all software applications, coordinate long range planning and goal setting across all municipal departments, prepare annual operating and capital IT budgets, and oversee the selection of software and hardware vendors. Position requires education equivalent to a master’s degree in computer science, IS/IT or related field plus five years of experience in IT, systems planning or related field, plus five years of supervisory experience. Starting salary: up to $89, 000 plus benefits. Submit required town application form with resume and cover letter to HR Dept., 1625 Mass. Ave., Lexington, MA 02420. Application deadline is Jan. 25. MMA

Town Accountant

Town of Raynham

The town of Raynham, Mass., (12,500 population: budget $27 million) is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Town Accountant. The Town Accountant works under the general supervision and administrative direction of the board of selectmen/town administrator. Responsibilities include financial monitoring of the budget; maintaining comprehensive financial records; generating required periodic reports; assisting with annual budget preparation and supervision of accounting department staff. Thorough knowledge of UMAS, GAAP, and GASB regulations, knowledge of Data National accounting software, and a working knowledge of applicable Massachusetts General Laws are necessary. The applicant should have strong communication skills. Requirements include a bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance, plus a minimum of three years’ municipal accounting experience. Massachusetts Governmental Accounting Certificate preferred. Salary range: $45,000-$65,000, commensurate with experience. A job description is available upon request. Please send cover letter and resume to Town Administrator, 558 South Main St., Raynham, MA 02767, or e-mail... MMA

Town Counsel

Town of Arlington

Position performs responsible administrative duties as chief legal officer of the town, prosecutes and defends all litigation and provides advice to all town departments. Position performs varied and complex professional legal functions, assuming full responsibility for their planning and execution; exercises considerable judgment in making decisions and rendering advice regarding the town’s legal affairs, policy-making and administration. Juris doctor degree; member of the Massachusetts Bar and Federal Bar; five years’ experience in municipal law and litigation. Salary range: $105, 000-$120,000 annually. Please apply by Feb. 22, 2008. For a full position description please visit http://www.arlington.gov . MMA

Director of Inspectional Services
Town of Plymouth

The town of Plymouth (population 55,000) is seeking a Director of Inspectional Services. Position reports to town manager. Responsibilities are administrative, supervisory, and technical in the policy development of inspectional services in the town, including building, zoning, health, wiring, plumbing, gas, animals, weights and measures, and taxi inspections including enforcement and interpretation of state inspection codes, local zoning bylaw, and other applicable regulations. Position enforces the provisions of Massachusetts state building code and health codes and regulations, town's zoning by-laws and all other relevant state codes; enforces regulations and requirements of special permits and variances issued by the zoning board of appeals, and all other applicable statutes, rules and regulations. Position responds to questions related to mode or manner of constructions and materials to be used in erections, additions, alterations, repair, removal, demolition, installation of service equipment, location, use, occupancy and maintenance of all buildings and structures, except as otherwise provided by statutory requirements. Requirements: bachelor's degree in management or engineering, building construction or design; five years’ experience in administration of inspectional codes; five years’ progressive management experience preferably in a municipal setting; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Special Requirements include a construction supervisor's license and a Massachusetts state certification for building commissioner/director inspectional services. Salary: $72,757.25-$89,307.71 commensurate with experience. Position open until suitable candidate selected. Applications, to be submitted with cover letter and resume, available at http://www.plymouth-ma.gov MMA

KoolAid at the Enterprise!

Letter to editor:

It's certainly rewarding to know that you read my missive!

Disappointing is that you have ignored the facts.

To dismiss Middleboro's current fiscal situation as being similar to all other cities and towns and to assess blame proclaims that you have drunk the Kool Aid, like others.

There are advantages that set Middleboro apart that you have ignored.

That Middleboro has a G&E that has prevented borrowing should set the Town above others.

That Middleboro is blessed with the generosity of the Peirce Trustees should set the Town above others.

The Peirce Trustees' largesse should be used for the 'frills,' but instead has been employed for the necessities that are no longer affordable.

The Middleboro Finance Committee lacked the funds to pay for the cost of an 'audit' and requested the DOR to conduct an audit.

When the Middleboro FinComm received the DOR response, they were advised that the DOR required a written request from the BOS. Were you aware?

That was how the DOR Report came into existence.
Have you reviewed it?

One of the most striking monetary recommendations
contained in the report is the adoption of quarterly real estate tax billing.

The Town Treasurer has estimated that that alone would net the Town $50,000 PER MONTH.

Isn't that the deficit from the ATM?
Do you recall?

Have you noticed how many NEW TOWN EMPLOYEES have been hired?

The DOR Report raised the issue of 'A PLAN.'

Mr. Perkins said the BOS had 'A PLAN.'

Where is it? Have you seen it?
Where is it posted?

Mr. Perkins said the DOR Report had been implemented. Where?

The BOS hired a NEW Town Accountant. Have you reviewed his contract?

Are you aware that the Accountant earned $63,000 in Freetown, was hired by Middleboro for $75,000 FOR A 4 DAY WORK WEEK.

Does that mean he's working 4 - 10 hour days?
It's not in the contract.

Do you have a copy of the Confidentiality Agreement he signed?

When he finds a tv set charged to the Town, as the previous Town Accountant did, what do you think his actions will be according to the terms of that Confidentiality Agreement?

When Middleboro finds itself in the same position as Bridgewater next year, will you simply whine that it's similar to all other cities and towns?

Each time I hear that specious claim, I am reminded of young children who lament that their peers are wearing certain clothes.

Have we become such clones that we are incapable of thought that sets us apart from others?

I raised the issue of 'Legal Affairs' as described in the Middleboro Town Charter. Have you reviewed that section of the Town Charter?

How does Middleboro conform to the prescribed Charter provisions? What is Town Counsel's salary? What is Middleboro disbursing in legal fees? Why is Town Counsel billing Middleboro for $150 an hour?

When I requested a list of Town-owned vehicles, the list was generated by the insurance agency.
There are 212 items on the lists, most with a $500 deductible.

Any frugal person, seeking to reduce their expenses, fully realizes that the first $1,000 is the most expensive to insure.

Have you reviewed the list?

When was the last time the Board of Selectmen conducted an audit of Town owned vehicles?

I was reminded by former Selectman M. Victor Sylvia that the Town, at one time, had insured 2 vehicles that were no longer owned by the Town.

Is that the case now? How do you know?

It would seem to make sense to track ALL town-owned vehicles within town departments to track mileage, maintenance, project replacement, and a multitude of other uses.

Have you read the Auditors' Report?

Should you be interested, I can send you a copy in pdf format. Perhaps it's too dull & boring in its description of lack of fiscal controls, but that's the substance of the recall.

It is my understanding that the matter of the Selectmen's Secretary receiving a 36% pay increase, increasing her salary to $66,000 per year was resolved last week.

My understanding is that the Meeting Minutes from the Executive Sessions become public once the matter is resolved. Have you requested them under FOIA? I understand what transpired. Do you?

Clearly, there are many more issues to be raised.

Should you care to disagree with me based on issues with factual information that would seem justifiable. That you chose to use your platform without facts seems dubious.

Voters are beginning to pay attention, become involved, attend meetings and understand the issues. I hope you'll do the same.


AS A PERSONAL FOOTNOTE: I HAVE THE AUDITORS' REPORT AVAILABLE IN pdf FORMAT, AS WELL AS A DOR REPORT OF ALL CITIES & TOWNS THAT LIST # OF RESIDENTS TO TOWN EMPLOYEES. POST A COMMENT WITH YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS & I WILL FORWARD THEM TO YOU.

Disappearing blogs & campaign for Town Manager

The following commentary was included in the middleborocasino discussion forum, but has mysteriously disappeared.
For others who might be interested in the campaign for Town Manager, you might also check out: http://medianation.blogspot.com/


http://www.websitetoolbox.com/tool/post/middleborocasino/vpost?id=2203722


Yesterday at 04:38 PM #1

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Why do you think you would be qualified to fill Mr. Healey's shoes as Town Moderator?

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Adam



Registered: 10/04/07
Posts: 7

Yesterday at 08:37 PM #2

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It’s a fair question and you obviously mean Town Manager, not Moderator. Also, I am sure that I left things out, or phrased things imprecisely, but here goes:

First, I would not try to fill Jack’s shoes, since I disagree with the style of shoes he wore. Jack was the consummate hydra, with arms extending constantly into every single minute detail of government. What ultimately happened is that Jack could not control everything in the government, so nothing got done in an exceptional manner, things got rushed and fudged, all because he could not be everywhere at once and do everyone's job. He simply did not feel he could delegate authority. Consequently, he had to run everything.

Being Town Manager is not about the Town Manager, it is about everyone else being encouraged to do the best job they can. As long as the Department Heads are doing their jobs well and taking policy direction from the Town Manager and the BOS, then everyone looks good. My “style” is to let the Department Heads lead in the areas of their expertise and to let them rise or fall on their own merit—just like in the private sector. Rely on your planner for planning expertise; rely on your Fin Comm, your Treasurer, your Accountant and various Department Heads for financial information and advice. I would be a facilitator to obtain the best from the staff, and I would analyze and determine whether the final product is supportable, consistent with the policies as set forth by the BOS, and sometimes whether we have to go back to the drawing board. My view is not that the Town Manager is king, but he is the overall coordinator of the efforts of his experts to achieve Town policy.

As to what the Town policy becomes, that is where my legal skills of research and argument become a part of the needed skill set involved. My job, vis a vis the BOS is to research the possibilities—not just the one I like—but all reasonable options. I then educate the BOS as to those options, and argue for the one that I believe best serves the interests of the Town. I have too often seen Jack offer only one option—his—and leave the BOS – the Monday evening quarterbacks—to find their own options. That is not management, that is dictatorship and counterproductive.

Second, much has been said about my lack of financial knowledge. Nobody but you has even come close to asking. Much of my work in New York’s financial district had to do with forensic analysis of commodities and securities trading accounts to determine customer losses or damages related to illegal trading schemes, as well as researching and analyzing the relevant markets to determine if the investment advise given made sense. The trading involved in the accounts analyzed frequently dealt with options, derivatives, bonds, forex, wash trading, trading ahead, suitability, market manipulation, etc. This type of analysis is not simple, and in litigating these types of matters it frequently requires both going back in time to develop a damages model based on the well managed account theory (basically, what should the account have made if traded correctly), as well trying to find ways to defeat the other side’s argument for why the well managed account theory is either wrong or inapplicable.

In addition, much of my career has involved business advice to high net worth individuals and other businessmen and entities relating to all varieties of economic decisions and plans contemplated by the client. I have then moved forward and executed the plan and negotiated the final product, and then drafted the final product. This takes incredible coordination of facts, legal knowledge, strategic prowess, and sometimes just pure “guts baseball.”

Third, most of my career has involved dealing with regulators, state and federal, civil and criminal. I have dealt with the SEC, NFA, CFTC, NASD, U.S. Attorneys Office, various State District Attorneys, and various Attorney Generals. This relates to the Town Manager job, as there are a large number of State Regulators and regulations that must be dealt with in the day to day operations of the Town. Regulators and their regulations, and how to deal with their frequently “different way” of doing things is a talent I have already developed and can transfer to the Town Manager position.

Fourth, my knowledge and instincts as a litigator provide a liability protection to the Town. I have sued Towns and other entities for various violations of individual civil rights, and I am keenly familiar with employment and discrimination laws and policies from the plaintiff’s side (the other side). I have a lawyer’s knowledge of the operation of government and a fairly substantial knowledge of what a Town and its employees should NOT do. Currently, in my opinion, we have at least two civil rights lawsuits pending against the Town that could have been prevented if a different management style had been employed.

Moreover, the position of Town Manager has become even more law oriented as our society has become more litigious. In fact, knowledge of municipal finance law, the procurement laws, environmental laws, contract and collective bargaining laws, etc., are quickly becoming essential parts of a Town Manager’s diet.

Fifth, I am a resident with a wife and child. I am not going anywhere geographically, and I have no political aspirations. I don’t need the headache. But I have a stake in this Town, I love this Town as my home, and I want to help to shape the future of this Town. (I expect a lot of people to take shots at this comment, but try to take it for what it is worth).

I only moved here in 2002, and in 2004 I was elected with the most votes against two long timers, and in 2007, I was elected with the most votes, and approximately 70% of the 8% turnout. I have made AN impression on people (good or bad), and been able in a relatively short time to develop a fairly sizable group of citizens that trust me (whether you agree or not).

Finally, I think I am qualified because I care about what is going on, and I work very hard to execute my duties as Selectman, and would do so as a Town Manager. But, for those of you who are boiling over with anger reading this, don’t worry—no one has offered the job, no application has been made, and no interviews have been had. Long shot?—I think so. Would I take it if offered—you bet. Also keep in mind that I voted in favor of Mr. Fohlin—twice. I also made the motion to appoint Steve Lombard, our current temporary Town Manager. So, I also think that this shows another qualification—I can separate my own personal self interests from the job I perform as Selectman. I act on what I believe is in the best interests of the Town—whether you agree that I accomplish that goal is another story.

As usual, Indy has asked me the time, and in typical lawyer fashion I have instead told Indy how to build a clock. Sorry, but I wanted to give a respectful answer to a fair question. However, I also know that there will be lots of snotty, snide, mean attacks on what I have said. To those comments I simply will NOT respond. As to reasonable questions or comments, I will be happy to address them to the extent that I have time to do so.

Indy—thank you for the question, I assume it was asked in sincerity.

__________________
Adam Bond
Indy

Registered: 10/02/07
Posts: 22 Yesterday at 08:53 PM #3

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thank you, Adam. I appreciate your time and effort in answering my question. I hope that if you succeed in your aspirations to become Town Manager, you will remain accessible to the people. My best wishes, Indy

__________________
Is the world a safe place? Al Einstein
Adam



Registered: 10/04/07
Posts: 7 Yesterday at 09:00 PM #4

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I will be as accessible as I am currently--all you have to do is call or grab me by the shoulder.

Come by Honeydew someday, and I'll buy the coffee.

__________________
Adam Bond
View Member Profile Send Private MessageSend Email Find Member's Threads Find Member's Posts
pcunix

Registered: 09/08/07
Posts: 98 Today at 03:30 PM #5

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Quote:
Originally Posted by Adam

Finally, I think I am qualified because I care about what is going on, and I work very hard to execute my duties as Selectman, and would do so as a Town Manager. But, for those of you who are boiling over with anger reading this, don’t worry—no one has offered the job, no application has been made, and no interviews have been had. Long shot?—I think so. Would I take it if offered—you bet. Also keep in mind that I voted in favor of Mr. Fohlin—twice. I also made the motion to appoint Steve Lombard, our current temporary Town Manager. So, I also think that this shows another qualification—I can separate my own personal self interests from the job I perform as Selectman. I act on what I believe is in the best interests of the Town—whether you agree that I accomplish that goal is another story.



To me, the ability to set aside your own best interests is the most important. So
few people even make a nod in that direction.. and shame on them.

I was talking to several people here at Oak Point today. We all agreed that we'd
like to see a qualified person who already lives here rather than someone who
moves here for an "opportunity" and then will move on the minute someone
makes a better offer.

Someone who lives here might move on too, of course: but we think there is
more chance of their hanging in.

Adam isn't the only person from Middleboro who is interested in the position;
but if you agree with me that a current resident (assuming they are qualified
of course) makes more sense, you should let the other Selectmen know
that.

By the way, the sentiment of two people I spoke with is that the Oak Point
Veterans will generally oppose Adam because of the Paul Provencher issue.
However, when I drilled into that, it seemed that they really didn't understand
the background and once I explained it, felt that Adam was "in the right" there -
though that doesn't necessarily mean the Vets would be changing their minds.






__________________
Tony Lawrence
http://OakPointCommunity.org
http://aplawrence.com
View Member Profile Send Private MessageSend Email Find Member's Threads Find Member's Posts
Juliette

Registered: Today
Posts: 1 Today at 04:13 PM #6

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adam:

Where do we find the revenue we need to keep our schools certified while we're waiting on a casino to be built? I assume another attempt needs to be made for a prop 2 1/2 over-ride (though it failed twice in Bridgewater). As the mother of two small children, I am very concerned that my kids won't have the educational advantages I did. My husband and I have come up with a contingency plan to send them to private schools if need be. But I'm afraid that places like Coyle will be inundated with applications if area schools lose their accreditation. Besides I would prefer the diverse atmosphere public schools offer. Any thoughts? Encouragement? Juliette


Previous Thread | Next Thread



http://www.websitetoolbox.com/tool/post/middleborocasino/vpost?id=2203722

Where's the plan?

Selectman Wayne Perkins repeatedly insisted prior to the Recall Election that the Middleboro BOS HAD A

PLAN.

Where is the PLAN? It's not on the Town's Web Site. It's never been made public.



The DOR Report criticized the BOS for depleting the piggy bank and it appears they plan to do it again!



A review of the STM Warrant indicates as much and worse.

Although there has been a HIRING FREEZE for a number of years, the BOS continue to hire new employees.

ATM (Annual Town Meeting) approved a budget. That budget included an Administrative Assistant for the Fire Department who would work 24 hours a week.

The BOS approved hiring a replacement, increasing the hours to 40 hours a week predicated on a future Town Owned Ambulance Service that may or may not be feasible or ever exist. Either way, it's years down the road.

The BOS approved the hiring of 2 new Fire Fighters/Paramedics, positions ATM cut.

The BOS will tell you about the money they saved not replacing the Fire Chief.

The BOS, with little discussion, essentially eliminated the CALL FIRE DEPARTMENT. Did you notice?

When the Conservation Commission posted an ad to replace the ConComm Agent, the BOS suddenly remembered the

HIRING FREEZE.

Now, confronted with expensive fire truck repairs, long delayed repair projects, a High School at risk of loss of accreditation, a failing school system, and much else, because of the failure of the BOS to

PLAN,

the House of Cards constructed by the failure of voters to pay attention, ask questions, participate and attend Town Meeting threatens to collapse.

A review of the STM Warrant discloses additional sick leave buybacks, yet the figures have never been calculated or accrued, the time never recorded. The IT Director recently stated that the Town wouldn't have the capacity to track that information until 10/1/07.

The recently hired Town Accountant has a comparable provision in his contract. He can accumulate up to 275 days sick leave. A salaried employee whose contract only requires a 4 day work week gets SICK PAY?

Town Employees contribute 10% toward their health insurance costs. Town Employees make a $5 co-payment to doctors. Town Employees have a Pension Plan that offers 80% of their post-retirement salary.

Those UNPAID volunteers earn 2.5% toward the Pension Plan.

The municipal contracts provide for 2 annual pay increases (inter alia): 1. LONGEVITY 2. COST OF LIVING.

If you find a list of private sector employers who offer comparable benefits, please provide that information.

Pay attention to the legal fees. ATM replenished the 'LEGAL DRAWING ACCOUNT.' Anyone recall the amount?

Anyone recall the pending lawsuits? The 2 that come quickly to mind are that of the former Town Accountant and the Veterans' Agent, but there have been others.

Prop. 2 1/2 provided a framework and limit to the budget. That the BOS refuse to plan and limit their spending, defines their continued failure. Regardless of their continued BLAME GAME, they know the limits.

They are clearly laying the foundation for a Prop. 2 1/2 Override in the Spring by their current overspending.

Oil hit $92 per barrel today. Override? Fat Chance!

When Middleboro finds itself in the same position as Bridgewater in the Spring, I reserve my right to remind you 'I TOLD YOU SO.'

I encourage you all: get out, participate, inform yourselves, understand the issues, ask the questions, attend the meetings.

Let's stop perpetuating ignorance and misinformation #1

The following was posted, apparently by several people who don't seem to want to waste their time understanding issues or researching the facts (emphasis mine):


YesRegistered: 10/13/07Posts: 310
Today at 12:50 PM

The town is not voting to accept a retroactive pay raise.
If a pay raise has been voted on by the BOS or School Committee it is binding. WRONG!!!
The town has to pay for it.

WRONG!!

The Town my [sic] choose not to fund it, in which case there would be the layoffs.



Town Meeting voters approve CONTRACTS.

Town Meeting voters approve UNION CONTRACTS.

At the combined Spring Special Town Meeting and Annual Town Meeting, there were TWO PAY RAISES that Town Counsel FAILED miserably to explain clearly.

The first had to do with the Selectmen's Secretary.

The Selectmen removed their Secretary from the Collective Bargaining group and provided a separate 3 year contract that included a clause (much like the one posted for the Town Accountant) providing for a pay increase equivalent to any received by ANY other town bargaining group.

When the GMEG group received their long overdo wage increases. it was in the SECOND YEAR of the Secretary's THREE YEAR contract.

In other words, Town Meeting voters had already APPROVED her three year contract by their vote, they just didn't realize it.

The second had to do with the salary increases of the Fire Chief -- a contract that the Selectmen deliberately neglected for 3 years and negotiated to enable to Fire Chief to retire.

Town Meeting voters DID NOT APPROVE THAT CONTRACT.

The Selectmen subsequently voted to pay that amount from 'found' money within the Fire Department prior to the end of the fiscal year. The motion, made by Chairman Brunelle was improperly worded and illegal, but one must wonder if anyone noticed.

Slick Negotiators?

It seems the 36% pay raise that was given to the Selectmen's Secretary has been resolved to her satisfaction.

Minutes of Executive Sessions should be public when a matter is resolved.

Shouldn't they be posted on the Town's Web Site as public information?

Since the Middleboro BOS are such slick negotiators, wouldn't it seem as if the voters, that is, those Town Meeting Voters who found the salary increase to $66,000 per year unacceptable, would be anxious to understand what a great task the BOS had accomplished?

Aren't these the folks who just hired a Town Accountant? Was that the Accountant who was paid $63,000 by his previous employer, the Town of Freetown? And Middleboro hired him at the bargain rate of $75,000 per year? Ooops! That's a 4 day work week!
Is that 10 hour days? Not specified in the contract! Did you notice the Confidentiality Agreement attached to that contract? Next time the Accountant finds the tv set charged to the Town, you won't hear about it!

Good work guys!

This one's for Val ..........

Since VegasVal, the anonymous and usually incorrect poster on Limo's site, seems to have an issue with ME posting my opinion AS A VOTER about a municipal employee's contract, allow me to post an editorial, in its entirety below.

For those reluctant to search for VV's legal opinion and I can't see why you would bother:

Frightened of Litigation? Or something else?Posted By: VegasVal Replies: 12
And you HAVE NOT restricted your comments to an employment contract. You have researched A PRIVATE INDIVIDUAL'S salary history and posted it on the Internet. That sort of "digging" on someone you don't know and have no reasonable, legitimate connection with potentially falls within the legal definition of STALKING. Continual posts about this person and his salary could potentially be considered harrassment which is a misdemeanor criminal offense.



Perhaps VV can harrass the newspaper or the author as well for STALKING:

Rehoboth misused the right of recall


By Ted Gay, Editor Emeritus
GateHouse News Service
Wed Oct 03, 2007, 08:48 PM EDT

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


TAUNTON -
The right to recall those holding elective office is not supposed to be used to change the will of the majority. It does get used that way, however, the latest example being in Rehoboth where a superior court judge, Robert Kane, ruled that the town’s recall procedure had been abused several times over. The decision allowed Selectman Christopher Morra to retain his seat. This was a case a member of the Registrars of Voters obtaining from the town clerk 200 blank petition forms and then using the stamp of fellow board members to certify that the voter signatures were valid. In testimony before Judge Kane, Mary Beth Moriarty said she thought the reference on the forms requiring that signatures being legal meant hers and that of City Clerk Kathy Conti. There were, Moriarty testified, many voters in Rehoboth who believed there were “injustices” committed by Morra and he should be removed from office. Maybe so, but what claim won’t be tested in a recall election because the procedure was abused by town officials who should have known better. In Middleboro, the town charter was followed as recall petitions were filed against three of the five selectmen, the claims against them stemming from sale of land to the Wampanoag Indians for a casino. The petitions produced six separate issues on one ballot, with a total of 10 candidates, certainly a challenge to the mental agility of voters, as well as to those who had to certify the results. The charge against the three selectmen was a lack of fiscal responsibility. Middleboro had a strange summer, and the arrival of fall hasn’t changed that. It is without a town manager; the police chief is the acting fire chief, and he promoted a friend from police lieutenant to a new post of captain. A new town accountant was hired from out of town and was allowed to carry his accrued contract benefits with that town to Middleboro with him. More serious than all that, the school system has failed for five straight years to meet annual yearly progress as required under the federal No Child Left Behind Act. As a consequence, the entire educational structure must be changed. Certainly, the town didn’t need the split that comes with recall elections, but the anti-casino voters pushed for it.

http://www.tauntongazette.com/opinions/x1649552248

Isn't FREEDOM OF THE PRESS A CURIOUS THING?

Asleep at the Empty-Prize?

Are folks at the Empty-Prize asleep?

While their editorial is intended to fault one person, Middleboro's Annual Town Meeting protested a number of SICK LEAVE BUY BACKS in lump sums.

Middleboro's former Town Manager received SICK LEAVE BUYBACK at retirement claiming he had never been sick. A review of BOS meeting minutes might indicate otherwise, but what private sector 'salaried' employee gets such a perk?

Middleboro's Animal Control Officer 'retired' in March of 2006,moved to Florida, but remained on the Town's payroll until September 2007 because of accumulated vacation and sick pay. How much previous 'sick leave' was used for previous surgeries? No one keeps track. Did anyone request documentation for that period of sick leave?

Middleboro's 11/5 STM (Special Town Meeting) approved $85,000 for sick leave buy back for retiring employees.

Middleboro's Board of Selectmen signed a contract with a newly hired Town Accountant who will work 4 days a week with no specified hours, and be allowed to accumulate sick pay at the same rate as those employees working 35 hours per week up to 275 days. So, in other words, if he leaves the Town's employ, he can 'run out' his accumulated sick leave. If he 'retires' from the Town, he can 'run out' his accumulated sick leave for ONE YEAR.

EACH AND EVERY MIDDLEBORO UNION CONTRACT ALLOWS FOR SICK LEAVE & VACATION ACCUMULATION & BUY BACK THAT WAS NOT PREVIOUSLY RECORDED, PUBLICLY AVAILABLE OR ACCRUED AS A FUTURE TOWN LIABILITY.

Instead of targeting one particular individual to fault, perhaps the Empty-Prize editors should do their homework. Yeah, it's egregious, but it's widespread. Could this have contributed to the fiscal train-wreck in Middleboro?

County official reveals waste in government
We are hard pressed to think of any business outside of government where workers can carry unused sick days from one year to the next and then, as they near retirement, stop working at full pay for weeks, even months, before actually leaving the job while another person has to be paid to pick up the extra work.
http://enterprise.southofboston.com/articles/2007/11/21/news/opinion/opinion01.txt

Sick Leave Buy Backs & Comments

Those who have commented on Sick Leave Buy Back have missed a number of significant issues.

1. The Empty-Prize printed an editorial that criticized Plymouth County because of the editor's concealed agenda. Very little local reporting is accomplished by the consortium that owns the Empty-Prize and in essence, it's a wasteland.

On Wednesday, one single article appeared about the Monday BOS meeting and failed to report significant issues. Rather, the Empty-Prize chose to focus on the Regional Task Force and SRPEDD, its targets. Instead of news and factual reporting, the Empty-Prize has presented its favorite targets.

2. The Empty-Prize reported about a single Plymouth Country employee who 'ran out' her sick days. That editorial comment wouldn't be problematic if it represented fair and accurate reporting of the same issue in other towns or specifically Middleboro.

The 11/5 STM in Middleboro approved + $85,000 in sick leave buyback, and additional was voted on at the ATM.

One of those employees approved for sick leave buyback at the 11/5 STM was deceased.

Did anyone question or notice, least of all the Empty-Prize?

While it's sad that the Town lost an employee, what private sector employer offers that perc?

And for that matter, what private sector employer offers sick pay packages to salaried employees?

What private sector employer doesn't require medical documentation?

What private sector employer fails to record sick days, as Middleboro has not?

3. To clarify for all who believe or have been circulating mis-information: Town Meeting has a right to 'fund' or approve CONTRACTS.

If Town Meeting refuses to FUND a union contract at its inception, it's back to the Bargaining Table.

It can't be challenged in court. Some may recall that there was a Town that refused to fund a new Police contract last year and the Union accepted Town Meeting vote without a court challenge.

And at one of the BOS Meetings, I specifically asked the question to compel the Chairwoman to make the comment, on the record, that ALL union contracts will contain the provision 'SUBJECT TO TOWN MEETING APPROVAL.'

Since the Chairwoman seems to have periodic memory lapses and frequently misstates information as it's convenient, one needs to watch carefully, but it should also be noted that the Town Accountant's contract failed to include that wording.

As a footnote: the reason the 36% pay raise for the Selectmen's Secretary could not be voided is because it occurred in the 2nd year of a 3 year contract, increasing her pay to $68,000 per year or equivalent to a department head who supervises employees, manages a department, and has specialized training.

Middleboro Town Web Site

Middleboro's Town Web Site, long the butt of jokes because of its pathetic state, seems to stand as a statement of the Town.

.

The library has posted their links. As has the School Dept.

Absent a calendar that the IT Director indicated would be added to the site, the Town Planner posts AGENDAS.

.

Lack of regularly scheduled agendas seems to indicate the Selectmen don't meet.

.

Job openings: Wastewater Division and Conservation, but did you see the postings for Town Manager, Town Accountant, or Selectmen's Secretary? Or the land auctions?

.

Has anyone noticed that Middleboro seems to have no Finance Committee? If you find it listed, could you please let me know?

.

Do you think if the town had a computer savvy BOS this might change? What could voters do to change this? What has to be done to provide information to townspeople?

.

Check out other towns: MMA

Sick Pay: Buy Back vs Accumulation

Much ado was made at the Annual Town Meeting (ATM)

regarding

SICK LEAVE BUYBACK

Because those amounts were clearly disclosed, voters FINALLY

began to notice one of many giveaways, courtesy of taxpayers.

At ATM, Chairwoman Brunelle indicated that the town policy

had been discontinued after 2005.

11/5 STM was again asked to fund

SICK LEAVE BUYBACK

TO THE TUNE OF HOW MUCH?

Were you watching? Have you totalled

those amounts?

I'll offer the hint that it's not a pittance.

What the Bait & Switch experts didn't tell you is

they instead ALLOW employees to

ACCUMULATE SICK LEAVE

UP TO 275 DAYS.

Regardless of whether the policy is a conspicuous

lump sum that requires Town Meeting approval

or a carefully concealed additional 'EMPLOYEE'

on the payroll exhausting their sick pay prior to

retirement, it is a concealed liability the

TAXPAYER - TRANSLATION - YOU,

has incurred that will reduce town services.

That the policy IS extended to SALARIED

EMPLOYEES has yet to be questioned.

The retired Town Manager received his

'lump sum' for his accumulated

sick pay, declaring that he had never taken

a sick day.

A cursory review of the BOS

meeting minutes might prove otherwise.

The BOS signed a contract with a recently

hired SALARIED Town Accountant who will work

4 DAYS EACH WEEK

yet he will accrue sick time at the same

rate as a full time town employee.

The BOS also allowed the contract to

include VACATION PAY that he WOULD

HAVE been entitled to in his previous

position.

Little noticed is that NO ONE was

keeping track of sick pay or vacations.

While some might disagree, a list of

private sector employers offering

those benefits would be appreciated.

12/17/07 Selectmen's Meeting: Speculation and Incompetence

During the correspondence portion of the December 17th, 2007, Selectmen's Meeting, Selectman Patrick Rogers, who is now approving 'warrants' (the town's bills) after Selectman Bond's abrupt refusal to continue to do so, discussed that there was a charge on Town Counsel, Dan Murray's bill for:
.
J. Powell
.
among other things.
.
Selectman Wayne Perkins protested that a PRIVATE CITIZEN would access Town Counsel without Mr. Perkins' gathering the facts and indicated that he was 'making a point.'

.

Mr. Perkins: Why don't you gather the facts? You don't know what you think you know.

.

Selectman Bond speculated that the charge might have to do with a conversation regarding DISCLOSURE OF PUBLIC DOCUMENTS because Dan Murray had this great radar.

.

Chairwoman Marsha Brunelle stated that PRIVATE CITIZENS don't have access to Town Counsel.
.

Mrs. Brunelle: You managed to call me to clarify misinformation regarding the Town Accountant's contract. Surely you could call to clarify this issue before you speculate.

.
.
WRONG !!! WRONG !!! WRONG !!!
.
.

If bills are being paid by the Selectmen with such little detail that only speculation or guesswork is acceptable, could this be where part of the Town's problem lies?

.

.

.

To the Voters: These are your hard-earned tax dollars this Board is spending and they truly don't know what it's for. Isn't it time you paid attention? Isn't it time for a CHANGE?

.

To the BOS:

.

That you would bandy about my name regarding an issue about which you have NO FACTS defines your incompetence. Next time, do your research before you speculate. You are charged as 'Auditors' in the Town Charter and have failed miserably.

.

If you want to know what was discussed, call me at: 508 946-9761.

.

Only the facts prevent ignorance and speculation.

Pig Fest of spending and hiring? You decide!

Middleboro voters were told at the Annual Town Meeting (ATM) that cuts WOULD NOT be restored.

Middleboro voters denied a retirement package, yet the BOS 'found' money to accomplish their goal in defiance of ATM voters.

Doesn't that mean that there's 'extra' stashed within budgets?

ATM voters approved a Fire Department budget with an Administrative Assistant working 24 hours per week, and cutting 2 Fire Fighters.

The BOS replaced the 2 Fire Fighters, promoted another, increased the hours of the Adm. Asst. based on a 'future' Town-owned ambulance service that will NEVER break even, never mind generate revenue.

The School Department requested additional funds, but neglected to deduct over-funding. Credibility? Don't they have a business manager?

The BOS hired a part-time Town Accountant with sick pay accumulation included in his contract.

Now, our newly hired 'interim' Town Manager, another part-time employee who will be gone when the 'mud' hits the fan next year, proposes a pig fest of hiring and spending from one-time revenues.

Did Middleboro need another SHILL to do BOS bidding and continue along the fiscal path to disaster?

Watch him closely. Isn't he great at ducking the hard questions and conspicuously experienced at it?

Has he neglected to read the boring part of the Town Charter that assigned certain dull fiscal tasks to the Finance Committee? Why has the FinComm been deliberately denied information amidst the Chairwoman's newest 'Let's pretend there's transparency' campaign?

While the BOS pretended to conduct a 'HEARING' on the Warrant Articles for the 11/5 STM, where was an accurate presentation of the information? Isn't that the purpose of a PUBLIC HEARING?


PLEASE REMEBER WHAT YOU SPEND NOW YOU WON'T HAVE NEXT YEAR. WHAT IS PROPOSED IS BASED ON ONE-TIME REVENUE.

PLEASE REMEMBER THAT WE HAVE MAJOR REPAIRS REQUIRED TO ASSURE ACCREDITATION OF THE HIGH SCHOOL. AND WHAT OF THE PARKS DEPARTMENT?

WHAT YOU APPROVE OR IGNORE THIS YEAR WILL CREATE HAVOC NEXT YEAR.

MIDDLEBORO'S BOND RATING IS BASED ON POOR FISCAL MANAGEMENT. LET'S WORK TO MAKE IT BETTER. AND LET'S EMPLOY SOME FISCAL RESTRAINT.

PLEASE ATTEND 11/5.