HANOVER — Hanover Select Board members reached broad agreement on six focus areas that will guide the board's work over the coming year, with officials emphasizing financial stability, environmental stewardship and improving residents’ quality of life.
During a June 1 goal-setting workshop, the board reviewed a proposed framework that organizes priorities into six categories: financial sustainability and governance; operational effectiveness; technology and infrastructure; community wellbeing; environmental stewardship; and communication and regional collaboration.
The board did not formally adopt the goals during the meeting, but members agreed the framework reflects the priorities they want to pursue and plan to finalize the document at a future meeting.
Chair Greg Satterwhite said he hopes the board’s work will focus on making Hanover a more livable community while maintaining strong financial management.
“I'd really like us to focus on livability of Hanover,” Satterwhite said. “That goes along with wellbeing, people having the support that they need and thinking wisely about environmental stewardship, all of those things that add to the quality of life in Hanover.”
The first goal area focuses on continuing work the board began over the past year on financial planning, capital investment and governance. Officials discussed the importance of monitoring major long-term liabilities, refining capital plans and preparing for future decisions involving school facilities and other infrastructure investments.
Another major priority is improving operational efficiency across town government. Board members discussed the challenge of maintaining services with limited staffing resources while identifying opportunities to streamline operations and improve effectiveness.
Grant funding was also highlighted as an area for improvement. Officials discussed creating a more structured process for identifying grant opportunities and pursuing outside funding that could reduce pressure on local taxpayers.
Technology and cybersecurity are expected to receive additional attention as well. Members expressed interest in revitalizing Hanover’s Information Technology Committee and examining issues such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, technology purchasing and long-term planning.
Community wellbeing goals include improving awareness of assistance programs, exploring housing-related issues and enhancing quality-of-life amenities such as walkability and open space.
Environmental priorities include oversight of Hanover’s PFAS treatment project, pursuing Green Communities grants, educating residents about fertilizer use and continuing efforts related to cleanup of the former National Fireworks site.
Board members also emphasized the importance of improving communication with residents and strengthening partnerships with neighboring communities and regional organizations.
Regional collaboration was discussed as one potential tool for controlling costs while maintaining services. Members cited existing partnerships involving public safety and social services and expressed interest in exploring additional opportunities.
“I think we're in a position where we could at least agree that these six areas of goals for a framework is what we're looking for,” Satterwhite said.
The board expects to refine the document and formally adopt its goals later this month.
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