OXFORD — Town Manager Adam Garland was directed by selectmen Thursday to put together an example of an annual town meeting referendum ballot, using the 2024 town meeting warrant articles.

The directive followed a discussion on whether to continue in-person annual town meetings or switch to voting by ballot at polling stations.

Chairman Floyd Thayer said he continues to field calls from residents who feel there would be stronger participation in voting for municipal budget articles if it did not require attending annual town meetings.

Thayer, Vice Chairman Dana Dillingham and Selectman Scott Hunter have indicated they would favor voting at the polls if it means more citizen participation, but have indicated they would approve changing to ballot if voters decide they should. Sharon Jackson and Caldwell Jackson have consistently opposed putting the potential change to a town vote.

During the June elections, a straw poll asking voter preferences showed a slight majority of residents supporting the idea. But following a review of the results, the board determined to continue the tradition.

In another matter, Police Chief Rickie Jack said he has reached a verbal agreement with the Teamsters Local Union 340 Police Patrol Unit on terms and conditions for K-9 officer position. He expects to have a written side letter with the union outlining the agreement finalized soon.

Oxford will take possession of its K-9 in December. Handler classes will start early next year.

In other business, selectmen voted to allocate the required 1% of staff salaries for paid employee leave reserve funds through a 50/50 split between municipal employees and the town. The new statewide law providing for Paid Family and Medical Leave Program will begin May 1, 2026. However, building accounts to fund the program starts Jan. 1, 2025.

Garland announced the Town Office will be closed on the following holidays: Thanksgiving, Nov. 28-29; Christmas Eve, Dec. 24; Christmas Day, Dec. 25; and New Year’s Day, Jan. 1, 2025. Additionally, the office will close at 2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20, for the annual employee Christmas party.