Irwin provided a case for the paint stewardship program, emphasizing its alignment with the state’s waste reduction goals and minimal cost to consumers. He explained how the program is voluntary for retailers and transfer stations and discussed the environmental advantages, including the potential reprocessing and resale of collected paint. Irwin also addressed potential objections and clarified the responsibilities of retailers, highlighting the support from various stakeholders and legislators for the initiative.

The board’s support for the paint stewardship resolution was not the only matter of significance. The meeting was marked by the announcement of Joy Piper’s departure from the board and the appointment of Cindy Palmer as the new member. The board took a moment to acknowledge Piper’s contributions and officially welcomed Palmer to her new role.

Another topic was the discussion surrounding the acquisition of 125 College Highway for affordable housing development. The board elaborated on their site visit with Wayfinders, a nonprofit affordable housing partner, and their plans to address the development of affordable housing over the next five years. In parallel, there was talk about the technology committee’s efforts to investigate the feasibility of fiber optic internet implementation in Southampton.

The board also tackled administrative and financial matters, including the approval of a conservation restriction for the Garingal property. The restriction ensures public access, passive recreational activities, and sets provisions for parking areas and timber management. Despite some concerns over enforcement and the need for a management plan, the restriction was approved.

Moreover, the board engaged in a discussion about the Colin Center classification compensation study update, expressing concerns over the methodology used in determining comparable communities and positions. The accuracy and relevance of the data used in the study were debated, considering the potential impact on the town’s finances and retention of personnel.

The responsibilities and salary of the Building Commissioner were scrutinized, with a debate over whether the commissioner possessed the necessary licenses for the role. Compensation structure for non-exempt employees and the performance evaluation process were also topics of discussion.

The possibility of the Town Administrator taking on additional responsibilities related to finance and HR was discussed, with members voicing concerns about workload and time constraints. The town’s internal controls were also a concern, as highlighted by the 2022 draft audit report, which suggested improvements in cash reconciliation and receivables.

Further financial deliberations included the scheduling of an audit meeting, the Green Communities Grant update, the Vadar Financial software transition, and the clarity of purchasing procedures and revenue reports. The potential implementation of a short-term rental tax and the legality of an Airbnb rental property on Pomoy Meadow Road were also debated.

Additionally, the board deliberated the reallocation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, particularly for a feasibility study for a sewer trunk line along the railway, submitted by Ty Bond. Concerns regarding the scope of services and legal implications were raised, prompting a call for further clarification.

The meeting concluded with administrative approvals including a Police Chief Financial (PCF) for a retired police officer’s return for private detail work, several one-day wine and malt licenses for events at Conant Park, and the processing of various warrants.