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?