In the opening session of the annual Town Meeting, Article 2, which calls for the approval of official town reports, became a point of contention regarding the accuracy of past financial records. Resident Diane Augustino challenged the Town Accountant’s report, specifically citing an error on page 107 of the annual report concerning a $7,800 appropriation for a Council on Aging outreach worker. Augustino argued that the funds were intended as a separate line item rather than being folded into general salary figures.

Augustino attempted to delay the vote, stating, I'd like to postpone voting on this article at this time until such time as the town clerk and I are able to review the issue. However, Moderator Robert Hiss declined the motion to postpone, ruling that the accuracy of the report falls under the jurisdiction of the Town Clerk rather than the legislative body of the Town Meeting. Hiss suggested that the concern be addressed directly with the Clerk or brought up again during specific department budget discussions.

The disagreement highlights ongoing tensions regarding the transparency of human services funding in Milton. Despite the objection, the body moved to certify the reports as printed in the annual town documentation. This procedural approval is necessary for the meeting to move forward with the current fiscal year's appropriations and audits.

Motion: To approve the Town Accountant's report as it appears on pages 316-363 of the annual report.

Vote: Voice Vote (Majority)