The Hudson Board of Selectmen spent part of its most recent meeting discussing potential updates to its bylaws, with members pointing to several areas where the document may no longer reflect current practice or expectations.
Selectman Heidi Jakoby initiated the conversation, noting that some sections of the bylaws contain outdated or unclear language. One example she highlighted was the rule stating that agenda items must be submitted to the Board’s executive assistant by noon on Thursday.
“But there’s really a preference for that to go to the Town Administrator and the chair previous to that,” Jakoby said, explaining that the written process does not match how agenda preparation typically functions.
Jakoby said another issue is the lack of communication when items are added to an upcoming agenda shortly after a meeting. While the chair is usually informed, she said other Board members often are not.
“There should be some method here to say, at the chair’s discretion, please let the Board members know as soon as possible about items coming on,” she said. “Sometimes I find I can’t get my questions answered by Monday to get on Tuesday. Some items come a long time ahead and other items don’t.”
Jakoby also raised the possibility of updating terminology throughout the bylaws, shifting from “Selectman” to “Selectboard,” a change many New Hampshire communities have adopted in recent years.
“I don’t know that we want to spend time doing this this year, but I at least wanted to bring it up because I think minor corrections we should do,” she said.
Board Chair Dillon Dumont agreed that the bylaws are due for a review, noting that the last revision took place on March 7, 2023, and only one Board member was present for that update.
“So, I think it’s appropriate to take a look at it,” Dumont said.
He encouraged Jakoby and any other members with suggested changes to outline them so the Board can review all proposals together. Dumont acknowledged that last minute agenda additions are sometimes unavoidable but said communication could be improved.
“I try to be as flexible as I can with the staff to make sure that we’re not impeding on their business to make sure that they run as smoothly as possible,” he said. “But I think we can definitely take a look.”
Vice Chair Bob Guessferd said the bylaws should include language allowing the chair some discretion when timely matters arise.
“If we just state some level of discretion on the chair’s part for things that need to be brought forward if they’re timely needed or in accordance with a deadline, that would help,” he said. “And that way people wouldn’t go, ‘Well, that wasn’t on the agenda,’ and avoid some of that.”
Board members agreed that the goal is not to overhaul the bylaws but to ensure they reflect current practice, improve communication, and provide clarity for both the Board and the public.
The Board is expected to revisit the topic at a future meeting once members have compiled proposed changes.
The next Selectmen meeting is set for May 12.