By K.B. Sherman, Contributing Writer
Grafton – Grafton Town Administrator Timothy McInerney received his annual review at the Board of Selectmen’s meeting March 15. Overall, he was rated “meets or exceeds expectations” by the board.
The review was based upon input from four board members (Selectman Dennis Flynn did not participate). The board noted that McInerney’s performance had improved over the last review period. Financial management was rated as a particular strong point while attention to long-term goals needed some improvement.
Selectman Chair Craig Dauphinais said that McInerney received an “overall very good” evaluation. Flynn explained that he hadn’t participated in the review but urged creation of an improved instrument/rating scheme and feels that the board needs to evaluate itself in how it conducts such an appraisal. Selectman Jennifer Thomas added that the board needs to reevaluate how the administrator sets and meets business goals.
The board noted that they will put McInerney’s salary determination on the next agenda as well as adopting a list of goals for the Town Administrator. The salary determination is traditionally done in closed session and the budget allows for a salary increase of up to 3.5 percent.
In other business, the board unanimously affirmed the appointment of Anita Patel to the position of town accountant. She is coming from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs in Boston and has worked in state government for 13 years.
The board also adopted changes to the policy for filling vacancies on town boards and committees with the intent of making the process more transparent and easier to navigate. Finally, the board unanimously agreed to sign the memorandum of understanding regarding the cable TV station’s lease of the old police station. The initial lease rate will be $1,200/month, increasing to $2160/month over the term of the lease.
