The meeting’s most significant discourse centered on proposed zoning bylaw amendments, targeting the reduction of marijuana cultivators in the town. The draft warrant article presented suggested diminishing the number of cultivators and completely eliminating the number for craft cooperatives. Debates ensued over the exact number of cultivation licenses currently in existence and whether the initial medical license would remain valid if the bylaw amendments were passed. The board agreed to host a public hearing on the issue, recognizing the need for expert advice on state requirements to guide their decision-making process.

Another topic that garnered considerable attention was the advocacy for grants and funding concerning the town’s water treatment plant. The speaker highlighted ongoing efforts to secure funds essential for the plant’s operation and underscored the necessity for additional land to facilitate clean water discharge.

The board also deliberated on an air sewer service agreement request for a property on Road 260. The discussion revealed contrasting views regarding the land use implications and the impact this agreement could have on other properties in the vicinity. While some members showed support for commercial connection to the air sewer system, others stressed the importance of considering the long-term consequences and differentiating between commercial and residential use. In the context of affordable housing and the system’s capacity, the board decided to forward the proposal, with an emphasis on supporting commercial connections and acknowledging the previously approved septic system for the property.

Further development issues were raised concerning a trailer park project, which the board approached with caution. The public hearing for the removal of three street trees on Taylor Street to make way for a new definitive subdivision saw the Tree Warden recommend their removal and proposed replacement planning. The board engaged in discussions about the financial implications of tree replacements for homeowners, ultimately deciding to incorporate the Tree Warden’s recommendations into their draft decision and sought additional input from the developer.

The board also touched upon the implementation of a tree bylaw, drawing on experiences from other municipalities like Newton. A motion to make a donation to the highway department for future tree planting was put forward, which, after a few clarifications, was approved unanimously.

Discussion about the Strawberry Farms subdivision followed, where questions regarding the water department’s involvement and the designation of the access roadway were raised. The developers provided clarifications, and the board moved to approve the amended stormwater management subdivision conditions.

The amendment of the master plan development aquifer water resource district and the special permit for sidewalk curb cut at 550 and King Street Commons also saw progress. Concerns were voiced about the phasing of construction for the 40 senior affordable units and the timing of their completion. The board sought to establish a clear timeline for this development, proceeding to approve the amended master plan development and special permit after obtaining the required clarifications.

In addition to these discussions, the meeting included dialogues on the town newsletter, with board members expressing their willingness to contribute articles and updates. They also broached the subject of changing the meeting start time to 6:30 and contemplated holding a retreat to explore major topics like planning department evolution and policy review. Moreover, the board examined the need for a new charge for the Transportation Advisory Council and the appointment of members to various committees, including the Community Preservation Committee.

The meeting concluded with updates on various projects, such as the Northern Bank and Hager Homestead, the affordable housing trust, and the response to the RFP for the Hadwan Road project. An invitation to the Littleton senior FES event was also discussed.