Barre would combine four town departments under one public works department

The bill would abolish the public works commission and establish a Department of Public Works with the powers and duties of four town departments. The department would include Barre's highway, water, sewer, and parks and recreation departments. The act would take effect upon passage.

A superintendent would lead the department under the town administrator's direction and supervision. These provisions cover the department, its superintendent and subordinate employees, and records, property, and equipment assigned under the 1988 act. The select board would appoint the superintendent after consulting with a recommendation from the town administrator. The superintendent could not hold another town office without select board approval and could not have a business conflict of interest. The superintendent could recommend needed employees, subject to the town administrator's approval. Employee pay would follow town rules and applicable labor agreements. Existing contracts and liabilities would remain in force; records, property, and equipment assigned under the 1988 act would transfer to the department. The act would take effect upon passage.