from the latest copy of the selectmen handbook.

Perhaps this needs to be read by the selectmen.


Role of the Chair:
 Being chair of the board does not mean forfeiting the right to vote or express an opinion. The chair, however, must be careful not to dominate the meeting. The powers of the chair—to prepare the agenda (see below), to call the items, and to recognize others to speak—give him or her enormous control over the way the meeting is conducted. A good chair will make the effort to ensure that the other selectmen are given an adequate chance to be heard. The greatest challenge facing a chair is keeping the discussion moving forward. A delicate balance must be established, allowing members to express their views freely, but without getting bogged down in long-winded expressions of opinion. By addressing issues one at a time, in an orderly fashion, and by steering conversation away from irrelevant subjects or personality clashes, the chair can help to build consensus within the board.

The chairman can make a motion, second, vote and express their view (s) Being chairman does not give one more power nor does it mean a chairman can make decisions on matters that belong in front of the entire board, such as having a joint meeting between two or more boards, committees or commissions. If a selectmen thinks that is up to only the chairman, I would say that selectmen has not learned much in three years.  I think if a selectmen wants a joint meeting, then they should let the board know in a public forum, such as a meeting of the board of selectmen. You do not get elected to be a go along to get along member. That is my opinion.


posted buy Jeff bennett