The town board recently rejected a motion to increase the town manager's severance pay and insurance benefits from nine months to 12 months on a 3-2 vote.

Board members Laurayne Murray, Paul Willis, and Vice Chairman Ron Johnson all voted against the motion, with Michael Miraglia and Chairman Richard Billman voting for it.

The motion sparked a bit of public comment from the few remaining audience members left who stayed around for the rest of the Nov. 14 meeting after the "English ordinance" was passed.

Sam Jones, who addressed the board and referred to Town Manager Dave Richards, as "Senator Richards," told the board, "I think he's trying to line his pockets because the next board might oust him."

Jones was referring to the four newly-elected town board members who will be seated in January.

Another concerned citizen was for the measure, saying that she thought "the proposed extension is consistent with industry standards, (and it's) not going to cost the town unless he's fired without cause."

Miraglia briefly echoed this argument, as did Richards.

Some discussion was also sparked by the agenda summary of the item, which stated, "In an effort to retain his services and provide an incentive for him to remain in his position as Town Manager it may be necessary to extend those benefits..."

Murray questioned why this incentive would be needed to retain the town manager. She pointed out that he is compensated for his time.