Weston Finance Committee reviews fire budget, debates social media policy for members

WESTON -- February 2, 2023, Weston Finance Committee hears fire and facilities budgets, debates social media conduct policy. The committee reviewed Fire Chief Justin Woodside's roughly $4.3 million FY24 operating budget, up about half a percent in non-salary lines, with salary figures flat pending union negotiations, and a $2.39 million facilities budget from Facilities Manager Gary Jarowski, a 5.3 percent increase driven by trash, septic, and pest-control costs. Woodside warned that ambulance order-to-delivery times have stretched to 700 days, raising the prospect of pre-authorization articles at future town meetings. Town Manager Leon outlined likely Annual Town Meeting warrant articles including a sub-$600,000 IT capital project, Cherrybrook culverts work, and a return of the contested water tank replacement. Member Matthew Seltzer raised concerns about Finance Committee members posting on social media without disclaimers, but the discussion produced no vote or formal policy, with the town manager agreeing to consult on a possible town-wide advisory.