Since mid-September, town officials have witnessed throngs of eager youngsters enjoying the new Clifford Park Playground equipment. During the Sept. 28 selectmen’s meeting, several town officials reported witnessing kids swinging, climbing and see-sawing at the park on a bright blue foam chip surface. Selectman Dale Harmon reported what he saw while picking up his stepdaughter. “Out of curiosity, I went to see what was happening at the playground. She played for an hour, and it was all very impressive. Hats off to everyone involved in the project,” he said.

Town Manager Dan Bryer said what Harmon saw has been a daily occurrence. “I’ve gone over virtually every night and a lot of times you see kids waiting to take their turn,” he said. Selectman Mike Tomacelli said in response, “Maybe it’s time for an expansion.”

In other action, selectmen held a public hearing for the state’s new general assistance guidelines for assisting low-income residents with food, housing and personal care and household expenses. Selectmen voted 4-0 in approving updated guidelines which run from Oct. 1, 2022 to  Sept. 30, 2023.

Bryer announced Public Works Director Mike Alley is eligible to train heavy equipment operators. “On his own initiative, he took the training, and received his state certificate,” he said.

Selectmen concluded their meeting with an executive session with town attorney Sally Daggett discussing their rights and duties pertaining to the school charter.

Selectmen meet next at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 12 in the conference room.