LIVERMORE — The Select Board July 16 approved employee raises, computer training for the administrative assistant and purchasing a used loader backhoe.

The 3% increase for all town employees is retroactive to July 1.

Administrative Assistant Carrie Judd was instructed to take classes at least once a month to learn TRIO, the new accounting program being implemented. The software is used by local governments as well as water and sewer districts across Maine.

“Just stay on top of that,” Selectperson Brett Deyling said. “Go to any of the classes coming up to do with our accounting systems.”

Chairman Mark Chretien said Judd should look at Maine Municipal Association [MMA] every month and check for training that would be useful. MMA is a voluntary membership organization offering a variety of professional services to municipalities and other local governmental entities in Maine.

The board voted to purchase a 2012 CAT 420F Loader Backhoe for $50,095 after Chretien traveled to Vermont to inspect it.

The town also voted to approve $275,000, minus $21,625 from the sale of the 2010 International plow/dump truck, for the new 2024 Volvo plow truck, with any leftover money directed toward the loan. The board secured a loan, to be repaid in five annual installments of $60,793.52 at an interest rate of 6.39%. The first payment is due July 23, 2024.

“We started planning this two years ago,” said Selectperson Scott Richmond, who confirmed the use of funds from the sale of the old truck to pay down the principal on the new purchase.

“I’m fine with that,” Deyling said in support of the loan.

Deyling announced the Brettuns Pond Association annual meeting will be held Aug. 7 at 6 p.m. at the Community Building on Church Street. The meeting will be a potluck, inviting attendees to share their favorite dishes.