Meeting Notes

Hardwick Select Board Meeting: Non-Profit Contributions and Town Financial Sustainability

12/16/24 - Hardwick, MA Select Board Meeting

1h 13m

The Hardwick Select Board convened to address several municipal matters, primarily focusing on a proposed policy for non-profit contributions to town services. Discussions highlighted concerns about the financial impact of tax-exempt properties and new developments on town resources, particularly schools, police, and fire. While licenses were approved and surplus equipment designated for auction, the majority of the meeting centered on the draft non-profit policy, its voluntary nature, and the challenge of quantifying both the costs incurred by the town and the intrinsic benefits provided by non-profits. The Board decided to hold a dedicated working meeting in January to further refine the policy, aiming for a framework that ensures cost recovery without unduly burdening non-profits, while also acknowledging existing pilot programs and the complexities of state-owned land.