Seems like some members may be fizzling out, as it was at the very last minute to the start of the meeting that a quorum was arrived at. Can't wait to see what happens after Steve Hemmen leaves.
At last night's meeting of the school building committee, it was stated by school superintendent that he had taken the town Accountant and selectmen secretary Holly Young to Boston (presumably MSBA) to be trained with regards to MSBA payments, specifically pro-pay. This seemed a bit odd considering there was no mention of the Town Treasurer, who according to MA general laws, has authority and duties to pay bills and keep track of town debt, The treasurer shall, in addition to his estimate of the amount required for the maintenance of his own office, prepare a separate statement indicating the amounts required for the payment of interest on the town debt and for the payment of such portions of the town debt as may become due during the ensuing fiscal year. (from MA general law, chapter 41, section 59)
It was also stated that the school district intends to turn over control of the Templeton Center School building back to the Town on July 1. It would appear that as of that date, that building and land will be solely under Town Control.
If anyone should check, and I urge you to do so by looking at MA general laws, specifically chapter 41 and by googling Massachusetts municipal treasurers, Collectors and Accountants. This will allow you to read on the powers and duties of each position. Very simply, each department, board or committee authorized to expend Town funds shall at least once a month send to the Town Accountant said bills at which time the accountant verifies that they are proper and legal charges or bills and that they are charged to the proper account, that is then presented to selectmen for their approval and finally the Town Treasurer, after having a warrant signed by a majority of selectmen, can pay the bills and keep a record of all debt and interest costs for said debt.
Jeff Bennett
