Board of Selectmen 09/03/2026

The North Haven Board of Selectmen meeting on September 3, 2026, primarily focused on public comments and discussions related to town operations and capital equipment procurement. A significant portion of the meeting addressed the cancellation of a fire engine order originally planned for 2023, which was unexpectedly canceled by the finance director, resulting in a $32,000 penalty. Fire department representatives and residents expressed concern about the impact on public safety and the need to reorder the engine despite increased costs and procedural challenges. The board discussed the complexities of the procurement process, including budget approvals, town meeting referendums, and compliance with state purchasing statutes. They also considered options such as bonding or leasing to finance the fire engine purchase and emphasized the need to engage the town attorney and board of finance to navigate the process. Additionally, fundraising efforts for installing historical plaques and plans for commemorative ceremonies were discussed, but no formal votes or contract awards were made during this meeting.