The meeting began with a detailed review of the potential financial impact of implementing the $10,000 small commercial property tax exemption. One member noted that adopting the exemption would result in a loss of approximately $7,000 in tax revenue for the town. Despite this potential loss, the Board considered the broader economic benefits such as reducing administrative burdens and possibly encouraging the growth of home-based businesses.

One member expressed confidence, stating, “I don’t think that $5,000 in taxes is worth all of the time, trouble, and effort for all these people.” Another member supported this view, emphasizing the minor financial impact on the town’s substantial budget and the potential for positive economic incentives.

The Board also discussed the next steps for formalizing their recommendation. They planned to submit the proposal to the Board of Selectmen, with the intention of placing it on the warrant for a special town meeting. While there was some debate about the timing, the consensus was to proceed with the recommendation and adjust if necessary based on feedback from the Selectmen and the community.

In addition to the tax exemption discussion, the Board went through routine administrative tasks such as approving motor vehicle abatements and signing sewer enterprise warrants. They also briefly touched upon new property tax exemption clauses related to veterans, which will be reviewed in more detail at a future meeting. The Board aims to finalize any proposals before the warrant closes on September 23rd.