The board also reviewed proposals from developers, one offering $100,000 for 45 condo units and another proposing to rehabilitate the entire Center School into apartments with a $2 million town investment. Discussions highlighted the need for affordable housing in Hopkinton and whether the town should invest in it. The value of the Center School property was assessed at $3 million, with housing deemed the highest and best use to maximize value. Members deliberated on the reasonable value of the property, considering its impact on taxes, housing, and downtown revitalization.

The meeting further addressed the vacancy in the school committee and the process for filling it, with a period of at least 17 days of advertisement before appointment. Additionally, the board approved Cody Slaman’s appointment as a water technician at the Department of Public Works, noting his strong work ethic and customer service skills.

A significant new partnership was established with the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office through the approval of the Safekeep program, enabling extended detainment of arrestees when necessary. The program aims to support the police department in managing detainees over extended periods, such as long weekends, with decisions on extended detainment to be made at the sergeant level.

Furthermore, the meeting included a debate on water rate increases for fiscal year 2025. A motion for a 40% water rate increase was ultimately approved unanimously, despite concerns about its impact on low-income residents. The board also unanimously approved a 0% increase in sewer rates and implemented discounts for low-income and senior residents for both water and sewer bills. Moreover, the idea of reestablishing a water and sewer advisory board was proposed.

The Main Street Corridor project was also on the agenda, with the appointment of a board member as a liaison due to their professional experience in the field. Updates on the project’s progress included a contract extension for utility work and the transfer of overhead utility lines.