Oxford Approves Spending Request After Overtime Debate

OXFORD, CT — Selectmen approved a spending request that included $139,624.50 for police overtime after David McKane questioned why overtime costs continued to rise as the town added officers.

The Sept. 16 vote was unanimous, though McKane expressed reluctance, according to the Board of Selectmen’s meeting minutes.

First Selectman George Temple said much of the overtime is reimbursed by contractors, including utility and tree-cutting companies. Board of Finance Chairman Jack Kiley also explained that outside contractors pay when they hire officers.

McKane wanted the town to show the revenue offsetting those expenses when selectmen review bills. Temple agreed.

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McKane also sought a closer look at legal expenses, arguing the town should spend money on a planner to help avoid land-use disputes.

Temple said planning and zoning matters, wetlands issues, union negotiations and grievances had contributed to legal costs. He agreed a planner would be useful but said hiring one would not necessarily prevent court cases.

Temple offered to arrange a separate meeting to review the expenses. No residents spoke during the meeting’s public-comment period.

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