The regional school budget’s proposed increase sparked a debate, addressing the potential strain it would place on Shutesbury’s financial resources. The Finance Committee’s counterproposal aimed to mitigate the budget’s impact on the town’s tax rate. There was a notable sense of unease regarding the process of amending the budget on the town floor, with questions about the legality and implications of such a move. The discussion also touched upon the idea of separating the regional assessment from the town’s budget to better manage disagreements over the proposed increase. The potential influence of Amherst’s town meeting on the decision-making process added another layer of complexity to the situation.

In addition to the regional school budget, the board discussed the approval of new Conservation Commission (ConCom) regulation fees, which were presented after being approved by the commission itself. The board motioned to approve the fees, following a public comment period where a resident inquired about the select board’s role in setting the fees.

The board also deliberated on the Broadband request for an indefeasible right of use agreement, which involved a long-term lease interconnect point with Crown Castle. A related subject was the proposed Electric Vehicle (EV) Chargers installation, which raised concerns about priority and the need for further examination. Another indefeasible right of use agreement was on the table, in this case with New Salem, which would permit New Salem to connect to the wider internet through Shutesbury’s network. The implications and nature of this agreement prompted questions among the board members.

Infrastructure and community projects were also on the agenda. The board covered the Great Elementary School exterior trim and siding repairs, including the approval of a contract with Santos Painting for the project. Moreover, the board resolved to execute the state earmark documents for a $200,000 school roof project and considered using the remaining funds for additional exterior work. The low bidder for the project was approved after reviewing a bid summary letter and contractor references.

The board also addressed an open meeting law complaint concerning executive minutes, designating them as exempt from public release due to their personnel-related content. The response process to the complaint and the potential involvement of the Attorney General’s office were discussed.

Financial matters featured prominently as the board reviewed the annual town meeting budget and the third draft of the budget, although the review was postponed due to ongoing changes. Budget allocations for salaries, compensating balance agreements, and the adoption of specialized energy codes for building construction were voted upon. The specialized energy code prompted debate due to concerns over the financial impact on residents. The board also approved the establishment of a revolving fund for the cemetery commission, deliberating its purpose and spending limits.

The select board voted to appropriate a sum for borrowing from the Clean Water Trust, debating the language of the appropriation and discussing annual debt service and potential reimbursement. The approval of the town budget included discussions on the regional school’s 6% increase and funding for capital projects. Uncertainty remained regarding the specifics of funding sources and amounts for these projects, which ranged from building renovations to police equipment and highway department necessities.

Lastly, the meeting concluded with the appointment of a cemetery groundskeeper, emphasizing the individual’s qualifications and experience. The select board also addressed plans for a Conservation Commission appointment, stormwater projects, and the scheduling of an emergency management team meeting. An executive session was called to discuss strategy in collective bargaining or litigation.