FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT REVIEW 2005

. “[A]n independent review…could be extremely helpful to us as we try to manage in these very tight

fiscal times.” – Board of Selectmen

Division of Local Services - Findings

Success in difficult financial times depends on the Town’s ability to prepare for and respond to monetary fluctuations with appropriate solutions and adequate explanations to voters.

Currently, there is no position in Town with the central authority to perform financial analysis for informed decisions by policy makers

There needs to be a full time position to initiate budget formulation, coordinate efforts to address important issues and provide follow-through

Division of Local Services - Findings In particular, the Board of Selectmen assumes many of

these duties that should not be performed by a part-time policy making board

Coordination and Communication between departments is lacking

Management of Employees – personnel administration

Performance reviews, HR trainings, etc.

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT REVIEW 2005 26 Recommendations

All but 9 have been addressed

6 of the 9 relate to a Town Manager

*Create the position

* Develop a budget bylaw

*Establish a performance review program

* Undertake a salary survey

* Produce annual reports

* Centralize Technology Admin. & Budget

Current Government Structure

3 Member Board of Selectmen

Elected Town Treasurer

Elected Board of Assessors (3 members)

Appointed Town Accountant

Appointed Finance Committee (9members/2 currently appointed)

Elected Tax Collector

Duties & Responsibilities of the Board of Selectmen

Chief Executives Goals Policy Local Licensing Board for Alcohol Permits, Special Permits Prepare Town Meeting Warrants Appointments

Limitations of Current Structure Part time

Lack of professional management experience

No central authority

Disconnect between departments

Questions to Consider Fiscal Management

Accountability

Inconsistent Authority

Common Voice

Professional Management

What is a Town Manager Appointed by the Board of Selectmen

3 Year Term

Possess at least an MPA or MBA plus experience

Responsible for the day to day operation of the Town

Formulate a budget for review and recommendation by the Selectmen and Finance Committee

Chief Procurement Officer

Recommend appointments to the Board of Selectmen

Represent the Town at public meetings when needed

What are the Costs/Benefits of a Town Manager?

Average salary $400/day plus benefits

Freetown has a PT Town Manager

Professional Management

Central Authority

Process to Adopt Town Manager

This is still a work in progress and must be decided by Town Council and the Board of Selectmen

Most likely by Special Legislation since we do not have a charter

Questions?