During the meeting, the board discussed the town’s authorization to purchase a portion of the Mason building, creating a condominium arrangement where the town will own two-thirds and the Masons will retain one-third. Two key additions were proposed for the building: one on the south-facing wall extending 15 feet towards the sewer plant, and another on the west wall for offices and small meeting spaces. The south-facing addition will extend the building into the rear setback, but the board determined this encroachment would have a minimal negative impact on neighbors.

A board member emphasized the importance of the addition being in harmony with the purpose and intent of local zoning bylaws. The expansion aims to provide various options for senior activities and to be available for other community needs in the evenings. There was public input on the usability of the proposed outdoor deck during different seasons, which the board took into consideration but did not commit to enclosing the deck at this stage.

Parking was another significant topic, with plans to add eight new parking spots off the existing parking lot. This expansion is intended to have minimal impact on the property by avoiding the creation of new driveways and instead extending the current lot.

The board unanimously voted to approve the special permit, with conditions ensuring that the construction project proceeds as depicted in the submitted plans. Each member present supported the motion, agreeing that the additions would not be substantially more detrimental to the neighborhood than the existing structure.