During the meeting, the executive director of Our Neighbors’ Table provided an in-depth look at the challenges faced by the community regarding food insecurity and the steps the organization is taking to address this issue. The introduction of the new regional food hub is anticipated to improve the capacity to distribute food to those in need in Newbury and the surrounding areas.

The board also addressed the Police Department’s request to consider old handguns as surplus. This move comes after the town allocated funds for the purchase of new firearms with advanced sighting systems. The old handguns, which include various Glock models, will be sold and the money obtained will go to the town’s general fund, helping to offset the initial investment in new equipment.

Other topics covered in the meeting included grants, donations, and appointments to various town positions, such as a new part-time patrol officer and other roles within the police department. The board approved a request for public property use for the annual Byfield car show and discussed upcoming projects, such as the Morgan Avenue fire station flooring project and the Watch Street Culver replacement.