An addition to the fire department’s building to serve as operations space for the town’s two police officers was one of the most debated issues at Wilmot’s town meeting, as many residents were concerned about the price tag down the line.

Despite overall support, the advisory article specified the size, location and an estimate for the total cost of the addition. It was only meant to allow the select board to begin designing the space, which would be approved at a future meeting. Many felt like the wording may limit the choice of Wilmot taxpayers.

An amendment, submitted by Josh Fisher, was eventually approved to eliminate specifications and require the select board to present at least three options for the new operations space.

“If you vote for this article, it means that you’re acknowledging there’s a need, and you're authorizing the select board to continue gathering information so that we can present you with a full plan, including accurate costs and estimates next year,” Chief of Police Chief Duncan Domey said. “There will be a committee made up of residents who have relevant experience that will hold public meetings to work on all the details.”

The town’s proposed $2.1 million operating budget was passed along with most other warrant articles. 

Article 24 regarding funding for the Wilmot Learning Place was amended at the request of educators to increase the amount from $4,250 to $10,000. They explained that an increase in rent and costs put the center in peril.

Overall, most residents were supportive of all the measures on the warrant and loudly applauded many speakers in Wilmot’s Town Hall.

On town voting day, Tuesday, Gary Palumbo was elected as a new member of the select board for a three- year term over incumbent candidate Jonathan Schwartz by a margin of 26 votes. Margaret Doody was elected as a library trustee for a three-year term.

Alexander Rapp can be reached at arapp@cmonitor.com