December 9, 2020

“Mr. Kowalski stated that all four candidates are impressive and MOVED to interview said candidates based on the recommendation of Community Paradigm Associates, LLC. He then asked Mr. Lynch for a list of all 30 applicants. Mr. Lynch advised Mr. Kowalski that the information he is requesting is confidential and if he were to provide it, it will become public information. However, he can put together some background information on the other applications. He then explained that people apply with the understanding that their name does not become public unless they are a finalist because it could put their current job at risk. Mr. Lynch asked if the Board would prefer to interview all 4 candidates on the same day or split them up over 2 days. Mr. LaMattina stated that he is not in favor of conducting interviews over multiple days. All agreed to conduct the interviews on Friday, December 18. The meeting will begin at 9:30 a.m., with the first interview taking place at 9:45 a.m. The Board also agreed to hold a second meeting in order to vote on this issue. Acting Chairman Salvucci suggested scheduling a meeting on December 22 or December 29, however Mr. Bezanson advised that he is unavailable on December 29. All members of the Board indicated they are available to meet on December 22. Mr. Lynch stated that he will send out draft questions for the Board of Selectmen to review; and advised if there is anything specific anyone wants to ask a particular candidate to contact him and he will put something together. He then explained the interview process and how he will act as a facilitator. In addition, he advised the members of the Board to contact him via phone or email with any questions regarding the candidates, their background or their reference report. Mr. Bezanson asked Mr. Lynch if the financial parameters were discussed with the candidates. Mr. Lynch advised Mr. Bezanson the salary was listed in the job advertisement as $145,000±. Acting Chairman Salvucci stated that he was under the impression that the Board had agreed that the salary would be equal to what Mr. Lynam was paid. Mr. LaMattina stated that the salary will be up to $145,000 annually, depending on qualifications. He then asked if another round of interviews can be conducted if the Board is torn between applicants. Mr. Lynch said yes, and if the Board does not wish to hire any of the candidates interviewed, the process will begin again. Acting Chairman Salvucci noted if the Board is hesitant or torn between candidates, there is an interim Town Administrator in place. Mr. LaMattina stated that he feels the Town will be better off if the position is filled sooner rather than later. Mr. Lynch advised the Board that it is most likely that 3 of the candidates have a 30-day notice in their current contracts. Mr. Kowalski asked if the Kingston search negatively impacted Whitman. Mr. Lynch said no, the person hired in Kingston did not apply in Whitman. Mr. Evans asked if any of the 4 candidates currently have applications submitted with other towns. Mr. Lynch said they do not. Acting Chairman Salvucci asked for a second to Mr. Kowalski's motion. Second Mr. Bezanson. Roll call vote revealed: Mr. Bezanson - yes; Mr. Evans - yes; Mr. Kowalski - yes; Mr. LaMattina - yes; and Acting Chairman Salvucci - yes. So voted 5-0..” (Motion: Kowalski, second: Bezanson)

Read it in the official minutes, page 2 (PDF)