BY IRENE LABOMBARDE

If things go according to plan, by the end of 2007 Bedford residents will be able to pay water, sewer and real estate bills online, and a secondary access road for the Bedford High School campus will be under way.

These are just two of the goals approved by the Town Council at its June 27 meeting.  The goals were compiled jointly by the board and town management staff to improve services, reduce costs and increase town government efficiency.

The goals are divided into two sections: Town Council objectives and administrative goals.

The Town Council objectives include the development of a 10-year plan, the 2008 budget, maintaining public safety services, the town’s enrichment services such as the library, seniors, BCTV, Parks and Recreation, and Public Works and regional outreach. The administrative goals cover creation of a dog licensing information booklet, reviewing the town employee manual, improving the town Web page, and revising the temporary sign ordinance. Each goal specifies a target date for completion, current status and who is responsible. A complete listing of the goals is available at www.bedfordnh.org.

Town Manager Russ Marcoux, who arrived in Bedford in February, said he usually develops plans for an entire calendar year, but felt it was important to begin immediately for the remainder of 2007.

“The staff worked hard and got excited about it,” said Marcoux. “As long as the goal is attainable, even not in six or seven months, they put it up anyway. At the end of the year it can carry forward.”

The 2008 goal-setting process will begin in November.

To measure progress and be held accountable, Marcoux said staff members will appear before the Town Council on a rotating basis to present updates on their goals. Town Council meetings are open to the public and are televised on BCTV.

“This keeps us focused on what we want to accomplish and makes sure the public is aware,” said Marcoux. At the next town council meeting at 7 p.m., Wednesday, July 18, Fire Chief Scott Wiggin is scheduled to report on his department’s issues.