SELECTMEN’S REPORT -- 2010
This has been a rewarding year as projects in various stages of consideration and implementation have come to fruition and been completed. Our new library, financed and completed through the efforts of volunteers, generous donors, Library Trustees and Friends of the Library has set a standard for public buildings in Jackson. The craftsmanship demonstrated in the construction and finish is exceptional and has resulted in a facility in which we can all take pride.
Our new Highway Department facility is occupied and provides space that allows for efficient and safe operations while addressing the long-standing problem of salt storage and pollution from salt. This facility was brought in under budget thanks to the effort and expertise of our Highway Department led by Jay Henry. Jay and his crew were responsible for the lion’s share of site work, which reduced our cost of construction significantly.
The administrative staff, led by Diane Falcey, performed admirably in carrying the extra work required to administer these projects. Simultaneously they moved forward with the first audit of Jackson’s finances, if not in the history of the town, certainly within memory. The audit places Jackson in a favorable position when dealing with the bond bank, leasing companies and banking institutions. Further, it moves us closer to compliance with financial requirements of the New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration. The process established will provide the basis for stronger management of Jackson’s finances into the future.
It is a pleasure to see the Town Hall receiving the care and attention afforded by the Jackson Historical Society. The building has never looked better but still more improvement and maintenance are planned. The Society is certainly the optimum tenant for this historically significant building.
With the Historical Society at the Town Hall, thanks to the generosity of Betty Whitney, we have the Whitney Center with plenty of space for voting and town meetings as well as providing space for use by the Jackson Grammar School.
The Selectmen have been very pleased with the efforts and performance of all town departments. The Highway Department has continued to execute plans that prioritize projects and make efficient use of available funds and manpower. New, upgraded trucks, provided through the foresight of voters over the last several years, have proved their value in handling our challenging terrain. Better performance and less down time mean better value over time. Our Fire Department continues to be populated by dedicated volunteers who respond with speed and ability when called upon. Members are interested in furthering their training and Chief Henry is evaluating training opportunities. Jackson now benefits from enhanced police coverage with the department at the increased strength of three officers. Again,
foresight on the part of voters was demonstrated in approving the budget that contained funds for a third officer. Building and fire/life safety inspections are being handled professionally and reasonably by Andy Chalmers, Building Inspector, and Bob Goudreau, Fire Inspector. Both are relatively new and valuable additions providing service to our community. Their efforts enhance values and safety for residents and visitors alike.
While many things have been accomplished, attention to budget and fiscal matters has allowed us to maintain a stable municipal tax rate. We are confident Jackson can continue to enjoy into the future one of the lowest tax rates in the state.
With an eye to fiscal matters, the selectmen and Jackson members of the Solid Waste Disposal District Committee (The committee charged with responsibility for operating the joint Bartlett/Jackson Transfer Station) have been negotiating with Bartlett selectmen and members to implement the provisions of the Solid Waste Disposal District Agreement (signed by both towns in 1982) that provide for fair allocation of costs between the towns. The close of 2010 marks three years of discussion and negotiation. The length of time it has taken is disappointing but we have made progress and feel Jackson may look forward to a more equitable sharing of costs in 2011 as, we hope, negotiations will be completed.
Respectfully submitted,
Board of Selectmen
David Mason, Chairman
Beatrice Davis
Jerry Dougherty
| 
