Delving into the details, the board’s unanimous decision to award a stone foundation repair and repointing contract to Dello Construction Services was driven by the need to preserve the structural integrity of the Town Hall Village Schoolhouse. Recognizing the urgency of the repairs, the board moved forward despite receiving a single bid for the project.

The board also entered into a contract with Bage Brothers for curbside trash and recycling services. Although there were concerns regarding the use of town-specific trash bags, the contract was ultimately approved, with future considerations for alternative solutions suggested.

In another agreement aimed at ensuring the longevity and reliability of town infrastructure, the board approved a preventive maintenance contract with Advance Air and Heat for the police station’s HVAC system. The unanimous approval of this contract highlights the importance the town places on maintaining essential services and providing a suitable working environment for its police force.

Furthermore, the board adopted a proposal to implement an online permitting system for conservation, recognizing the added value of online payment features and public access. The system entails a one-time implementation fee of $10,000, an annual support and maintenance fee of $5,000, and additional fees for online payment integration. The adoption of this technology is a step towards modernizing the town’s administrative processes and enhancing accessibility for residents.

Additionally, the board ratified a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Freetown Police Association, which included an increase in hourly pay for officers working during the event.

In a series of financial maneuvers, the board approved a transfer request from the fire chief, reallocating $50,000 for salary to overtime. They also approved the issuance of a new conservation agent email and insurance adjustments.

The board acknowledged the resignations of Linda Forer from the Open Space Recreation Advisory Committee and Sharon Rosen from the Scholarship Committee, highlighting changes in community leadership. Additionally, the board approved the proposed rates for call members of the fire department, emphasizing support for volunteer firefighters. Appointments made included Lisa Pelski as Animal Control Officer and Jaclyn Francisco to the Cultural Council, along with the conditional offer of full-time employment to Robert N. Faras as a student officer.

Among the reappointments were numerous individuals to various boards and committees. The board also ratified raises for bylaw employees as stipulated in the omnibus budget for the fiscal year 2025.

Town Administrator Deborah L. Pettey provided an update on current projects, reporting the expected completion of Town Hall bathrooms and the receipt of bids for the fire station addition, both of which are progressing satisfactorily and are within budgetary constraints.