The board’s debate centered on the stormwater bylaw review following amendments by the MS4 engineer firm and the addition of a new article. The review process sparked a discussion on the specifics of the bylaw’s language and the introduction of a new red line version for further consideration. The town’s budget discussions were comprehensive, with a focus on dividing the budget into Group A and Group B categories. Several budget lines were identified as remaining flat, while others, such as legal services, were running at a deficit, necessitating careful scrutiny and modification.

Energy costs were a recurring theme throughout the meeting. The high energy bills at the town library had become a concern, prompting negotiations with the energy provider to reduce these expenses. The board deliberated the merits of transferring the utility energy line from individual department budgets to a centralized town building budget. This strategy aimed to streamline expenses but also raised questions about its effect on the library’s certification and compliance with state requirements.

Another topic of discussion was the proposal to leave $400 in the library’s energy line item to cover water utility costs, as part of the broader conversation on consolidating energy expenses. The board recognized they were falling behind in the budget process and expressed an urgency to expedite it, with the goal of meeting deadlines for the upcoming town meeting. This included a discussion on articles for town meeting, notably a placeholder for borrowing related to the Slen Street project and the strategic financial move to pay down the principal on the school roof project to save on future interest payments.

The Town Administrator reported on the progress being made towards the town meeting, including plans to send motions to the Town Council concurrently with the warrant. This step was seen as a way to streamline the process and ensure timely deliberation of town matters. Additionally, the board addressed logistical concerns such as the availability of the meeting room for the Zoning Board of Appeals and the scheduling of subsequent meetings.

The meeting concluded with the board electing to enter an executive session. This closed-door segment was dedicated to discussing strategy for negotiations with non-union personnel, bargaining sessions for contract negotiations with non-union personnel, and to deliberate strategy in relation to collective bargaining or litigation concerning the assistant town accountant. The board decided not to reconvene in public session after the executive session.