Moderator Phil Lauriat opened Temple Town Meeting meeting at 10 a.m. Saturday, with the first items including swearing in all town officials who had been elected March 13.

Jim Kingston, chair of the Highway Garage Study Group, presented a report of the group’s findings, accompanied by an explanatory handout. The associated petition warrant article was to authorize the Highway Garage Study Group to continue the analysis of the present garage/department, work with residents on recommendations for best options for the current location, and appropriate $3,500 to cover related study expenses. After a lengthy discussion, a secret ballot vote was taken, and the article passed 101-21.

The operating budget, asphalt and paving expendable trust, bridge capital reserve fund, highway vehicle capital reserve fund and library carpet replacement all passed with little to no discussion or questions. An article regarding a new police cruiser raised considerable input from townspeople, as an amendment was requested to add 5% of police time to address safety measures regarding increased speeding on the main roads through Temple, which makes it unsafe for pedestrians who enjoy walking or strolling on those roads.

The amendment was struck down  as changing the intent of the article, and the request for the cruiser passed as written.

Articles to essentially merge two existing funds into a newly created Highway and Fire Department Vehicle and Equipment Trust passed. The article to close Powers Bridge over Blood Brook generated sizable commentary, with the secret ballot result being 115 no to six yes. Therefore, the bridge will not be permanently closed, but will ultimately require significant repair.

Town Meeting agreed to adopt the Temple Community Power plan and authorize the Select Board to implement it. The plan would allow the town to negotiate energy costs on behalf of residents, along with potentially affording options for increased renewable energy. There were associated handouts related to the Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire, and Renewable Energy Task Force Chairman Rob Wills answered many questions before a vote was taken, which passed in the affirmative.

An article to put a question on the state election ballot to reduce polling hours by one hour (not including presidential elections), quickly passed.

Town Meeting was adjourned at 12:23 p.m.