OFFICE OF THE SELECTBOARD
TOWN OF HALIFAX, VERMONT
SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES – DRAFT
NOVEMBER 18, 2024
6:00 PM AT THE HALIFAX TOWN OFFICE
CALLED TO ORDER
6:00pm Edee Edwards called the special meeting to order. The meeting has been called to interview two candidates for the open Administrative Assistant position.
Additional members present were Rhonda Ashcraft, Karen Christofferson, and Randall Pike.
6:02pm Recording started
No others joined the meeting.
NEW BUSINESS
Edwards reviewed the protective status rules for the benefit of members of the Selectboard and provided rules as to what questions can not be asked during the interviews.
Edwards disclosed that one of the candidates is the offspring of a Town Elected Official.
Edwards further noted that the State of VT has instituted a new ethics law that supersedes Municipal Code of Ethics. This is a recent development and training on the topic will not be available until January 2025.
Edwards noted that she knows the 1st candidate and stated the interfamilial relationship will not influence her decision. Christofferson stated the same.
Edwards described H875 as the new annual training requirement for Selectboard and others in Quasi Judicial roles such as the Town Planning and Zoning Commission.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Edwards moved to go into Executive Session seconded by Ashcraft, and the motion carried 4-0.
6:07pm Recording stopped. Video and Audio were turned off.
8:10pm Edwards brought the meeting out of Executive Session.
No decisions were made in executive session.
Edwards reported that two candidates were interviewed during Executive Session. Both were enthusiastic about the role.
Pike noted that both candidates brought qualities to the role however, one candidate seems more qualified and seems like she can hit the ground running. Christofferson concurred. Christofferson further noted the familial relationship of that candidate.
Edwards noted the candidates strong grasp of software, graphic and website skills and strong organizational skills. Edwards further noted that in small Towns conflicts do arise and further stating that we must be clear that we all need to attend VLCT training on the topic.
Christofferson moved to offer the position to Emily Dow contingent upon satisfactory reference checks with a start date as soon as possible. Edwards noted the hourly rate had been set at $19-$22 per hour. The hourly rate for the offer will be $20. Ashcraft seconded. Pike asked questions about references. The motion carried 4-0
HEARING OF VISITORS
None in attendance
ADJOURNMENT
8:26pm Ashcraft moved to adjourn. Pike seconded. The motion carried 4-0
Recording stopped
Respectfully submitted by Karen Christofferson, Secretary Pro Tempore
Meeting Recording: https://youtu.be/OTgdDOi8qN4