Whitman Select Board - June 2, 2026 Meeting.

The Whitman Select Board meeting on June 2, 2026, included several procurement and budget-related discussions. The board approved an expansion of the licensed premises for J Marudi Inc., doing business as Whitman Market and Liquor, to include adjacent space and a takeout kitchen, subject to further health and licensing approvals. The meeting also featured a detailed presentation by the Old Colony Planning Council on a downtown revitalization study funded by a 2022 economic development bond bill, highlighting infrastructure improvements, zoning reviews, and potential funding sources. The board discussed the town administrator search process, considering options for using a search firm or conducting a local recruitment. A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to reviewing fiscal year 2026 budget updates, revenue projections for 2027, and deficit projections for 2028, with emphasis on conservative revenue estimates, snow and ice deficit management, and the need for financial policy development. The board approved a motion to request assistance from the Division of Local Services for a financial management review. Additionally, the formation of a budget work group was proposed to focus on financial trend monitoring, budget policy review, capital planning, strategic planning, and budget documentation to improve fiscal transparency and planning. Discussions also touched on tax collection processes and challenges with uncollected property taxes. Overall, the meeting addressed key procurement approvals, budget oversight, and strategic planning initiatives affecting future town financial management and development projects.