The Hudson Board of Selectmen addressed a wide range of personnel matters during its most recent meeting, taking up promotions within the Fire Department, revisiting two previously approved hires who later withdrew, and authorizing new administrative steps related to town operations. The meeting reflected both ongoing staffing needs and the challenges of filling key municipal positions.
One of the first actions taken by the Board was the promotion of Firefighter/ Paramedic Christopher Pervere to Lieutenant/Paramedic, with an hourly rate of $38.83. The vote was unanimous, and Selectmen noted the importance of maintaining leadership continuity within the Fire Department as it continues to manage increasing call volumes and training demands.
The Board then revisited a personnel decision made at its June 23 meeting. At that time, Selectmen unanimously approved hiring John Campbell as a Custodian at $24.67 per hour. Shortly after the vote, however, Campbell informed the Town’s HR Generalist that he was withdrawing his acceptance of the position. During the most recent meeting, the Board voted unanimously to amend the original motion to reflect his withdrawal, formally closing the matter and allowing the Town to resume its search for a candidate.
A similar amendment was required for another new hire. The Board had previously approved Colin O’Brien for the role of Firefighter/Paramedic, at $38.60 per hour, step six, effective July 1, 2026. On June 30, O’Brien notified the Town that he was declining the position. The Board again voted unanimously to amend the original motion, noting that staffing in public safety roles continues to be a challenge for municipalities across the region.
In non-public session, Selectmen took up several additional matters. One unanimous vote directed the Town Administrator to explore the feasibility of leasing space at the Oakwood facility as a temporary location for the Hudson Community Food Pantry. The pantry has been evaluating options for relocation, and the Board’s action allows the Town Administrator to begin assessing whether Oakwood could serve as a short term solution.
Another non-public personnel action authorized the Town Administrator and Board Chair to begin discussions with the Hudson Police, Fire, and Town Supervisors Association regarding the newly created position of Deputy Police Chief. The Board instructed that any agreement or resolution resulting from those discussions be brought back for formal consideration. Selectmen emphasized the importance of ensuring the position is structured appropriately within the Town’s existing supervisory framework.
The Board also approved two additional Fire Department promotions. Master Firefighter/AEMT Adam Labore was promoted to Lieutenant/AEMT at $40.81 per hour, a move the Board passed unanimously. Shortly afterward, Selectmen unanimously approved the promotion of Master Firefighter/AEMT Jeffrey Ojiba to Lieutenant/AEMT, also at $40.81 per hour. Both promotions were described as important steps in maintaining adequate supervisory staffing within the department.