With several strong applicants Selectmen approved an increase to the hourly rate for the new Music Hall coordinator position.

“I didn’t think we were expecting such a qualified person to apply,” Facilities Director Shaun Cormier said. “I’d hate to pass up the opportunity to [promote] the Music Hall and make it a more attractive place.”

Originally, $18 per hour was set for the part time position. Music Hall coordinator candidate Patty Daniel countered that the position should pay $20 per hour. That amounts to an additional $60 per month.

Cormier said after a discussion, members of the Music Hall Advisory Committee agreed the new wage was appropriate.

A deciding factor was Daniel’s previous experience in the fields of marketing and sales.

The position was recently created in a bid to increase the number of people and organizations renting the Music Hall for social functions.

In total, the new position will cost $8,000 per year. It will be funded using the Music Hall’s endowment, which pays out $13,000 a year.

“It’s well worth it,” Chair Stephen Cushing said after minimal debate.