Templeton Select Board Meets on Regular Items and has Special Guests
Narragansett School District Superintendent Chris Casavant spoke to the Select Board about Civic Engagement. Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson spoke on grant funding opportunities and answered questions about how Gardner has been successful with grants. The Templeton Select Board took up a number of agenda items. Listen to the entire September 14, 2026 meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
The Select Board approved a Special Town Meeting for Wednesday October 21, 2026 at 6pm
The Select Board meeting centered on the upcoming fiscal override vote scheduled for September 28, 2026, and its profound implications for town operations, particularly public safety.
- Public Safety Crisis: The Fire Department is operating at a significant deficit, facing three vacancies with two more departures imminent. The board authorized immediate job postings to mitigate response risks.
- Fiscal Strategy: A detailed proposal was reviewed regarding the transition to a professional grant-writing firm (such as Keller Partners or other fim ) to secure federal and state funding, modeled after the successful program in the City of Gardner.
- Civic Engagement: The board is initiating a partnership with the Narragansett Regional School District to integrate students into local governance through mock town meetings and voting education.
- Administrative Reform: A policy workshop is scheduled for September 24 to refine Select Board operating procedures, specifically addressing citizen input follow-up and meeting efficiency.
- Energy Assistance: Approximately $6,700 in interest from town trust funds has been identified for heating assistance to residents in need.
- Hiring Authorization: Despite a general hiring freeze, the board voted to allow the Fire Chief to post for full-time firefighter positions. This proactive measure aims to have applications ready for review immediately following the September 28 override vote.
- On-Call Roster: To reduce overtime costs and ensure coverage, the board authorized the hiring of additional on-call firefighters. These positions are paid only when they respond to calls, though the town must cover equipment costs (gear) for new hires. CLICK Infographic for larger view.
