During the meeting, the potential for a collaborative effort between the Energy and Climate Action Committee and the Building Committee was a focal point, as they discussed advancing clean energy initiatives for municipal buildings. The Building Committee chair provided an overview of their work, highlighting the need for contractors and multiple project estimates. The discussion centered on the need for research to understand the real needs of town buildings to secure grant funding effectively.

The topic of energy efficiency in municipal buildings was further examined, with committee members exploring the benefits and challenges of retrofitting older buildings with heat pumps, insulation, and air sealing. The need for a strategic roadmap to prioritize energy efficiency projects was emphasized, along with the importance of planning for technological upgrades. The expertise required for conducting load calculations and involving the building committee in future planning was also debated.

The committee discussed the necessary steps to apply for a Green Community grant for Energy Efficiency, including the implementation of recommended weatherization steps. Whether certain electrical improvements, such as LED lighting installations, would qualify for grant funding was also a subject of debate.

Building improvements and the pursuit of grant funding for energy-efficient upgrades were central to the discussion. The Old Town Hall and Town Hall were cited as examples of where upgrades such as a mini-split system and increased electrical service could be beneficial. The possibility of obtaining LED project funding for the school through the Green Communities application was mentioned.

The Municipal Aggregation Plan and the recent contract with Colonial Power Group were brought up, with committee members considering the impact of legislative actions and guidelines from the Department of Public Utilities on the adoption timeline. It was noted that Colonial Power Group would meet with DPU to discuss submitting the plan and would provide an update at a future committee meeting.

The committee also discussed the Climate Leader Program and the requirements for Shutesbury to be recognized as a green community. The example of Ashfield, which passed climate action requirements in one town meeting, was highlighted.

A policy regarding the procurement of electric vehicles was discussed, outlining the preference for electric vehicles to meet the town’s needs. The committee deliberated on the criteria for vehicle selection, considering the potential financial impact on the town.

The specialized opt-in code bylaw was described as a template for adaptation to state updates. The committee recognized the need to explain the bylaw to residents and considered a winter special town meeting for its approval.

Finally, the committee approved the new charge by the select board and scheduled the next meeting for early September. Technical difficulties with a participant’s microphone and concern for a member who had tested positive for COVID-19 were also noted during the meeting.