NORTH ATTLEBORO - Whether the town should be in the business of providing business cards to selectmen was the subject of some debate at the last selectmen's meeting.

And, while a 3-2 majority of selectmen voted that the town should supply the business cards, board members later said they would pay for their sets of business cards themselves.

Selectman Mark Williamson suggested board members obtain business cards, saying they would help promote a professional image for the board.

Town Administrator Mark Fisher said the town used to supply selectmen with business cards, but hasn't done so in a number of years. He said there was enough money in the budget to supply each selectmen with cards - it was expected to cost a total of $190 to provide each selectman with a box of 250 cards.

Selectman Dale Langille was opposed to the idea, saying that even though the amount of money is small, it is an expense the town could live without. "We're in a tough economic situation," Langille said.

"I think people know who I am and where to contact me. We're having trouble in negotiations because there isn't enough money."

Both Langille and Selectmen Chairman John Rhyno voted against buying business cards, while the remaining board members voted in favor.

After hearing Langille's objections, Selectman Paul Belham offered to pay for business cards for all board members out of his own pocket, rather than using town funds.

However, Williamson and Selectman Michael Thompson said they would pay for their own business cards, as well.