A substantial portion of the meeting was dedicated to a public hearing on complaints regarding the operations of Choppahead Industries Inc., known for its “Bike Night” events. Represented by attorney Richard Bennett, the business faced scrutiny for a series of disturbances reported by local residents. The police chief presented a timeline of complaints, noting disruptive behaviors such as motorcycles performing wheelies and large gatherings causing disturbances. The most notable incident occurred on August 1, 2024, when a large gathering led to a police pursuit.

Residents voiced their frustrations, with one stating that events often extended beyond advertised hours, causing late-night noise and reckless driving. “This doesn’t go from 6:00 to 9:00; this is 6 to 10,” said a resident, highlighting the impact on their quality of life. The police chief emphasized that a culture of disruptive behavior had developed around the business, exacerbating neighborhood disturbances.

Attorney Bennett argued that the complaints stemmed from a single problematic event and were not reflective of the usual conduct during Bike Night. He suggested that the business could manage these events better by requesting permits or police details. However, concerns were raised about the limitations of controlling actions taken by individuals once they leave the property. The board members stressed the need for the business to adhere to licensing regulations and consider the safety and peace of the community.

The board decided to continue the hearing until November 18, 2024, to allow for further discussions between zoning enforcement, public safety, and the business owner. This decision was made to ensure that all parties could provide additional insights and that the board could consider new information before making a final decision.

In other matters, the board approved a request from Profile Tavern for a one-day wine and malt liquor license for a political fundraiser on September 25, 2024. The event will be held in a tent set up in the tavern’s parking lot to accommodate approximately 50 additional patrons. The board emphasized the importance of adhering to Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission (ABCC) regulations and ensuring that patrons could access facilities inside the tavern.

The board also approved a request from Piping Systems to use Pathway Park on October 19, 2024, for a trunk-or-treat event. The organizer discussed plans for community involvement, including potential participation from local police vehicles. The event, a repeat of a successful gathering from the previous year, will run from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Additionally, the board addressed the temporary closure of the transfer station on September 17, 2024, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. for training related to heavy equipment and yard safety. Public notification was emphasized to avoid resident confusion.

A proposal from the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) to use the town seal on coins to be presented to veterans was also approved. The proposal was framed as a way to honor local veterans, with the idea of organizing a public event for the presentation of these coins.

The installation of new security cameras in Town Hall hallways and the upgrading of cameras at the highway department was approved. The plan involves installing exterior cameras at building entrances and hallway cameras connected to the police station to ensure rapid response capabilities in emergencies.

An agreement with UMass Dartmouth College of Nursing and Health Services for a vaccination clinic was approved. This arrangement, effective from August 10, 2024, to August 10, 2026, provides valuable practical experience for nursing students while offering the town vaccination services without cost.

The board also approved updates to various policies, including those related to purchasing, conflict of interest, motor vehicle record reviews, and Council on Aging procedures. These updates aim to modernize procedures to align with current laws and best practices.

Financial matters discussed included the funding for retroactive union contracts for dispatchers and highway employees, an increase in electricity funding for the Triple A Pump Station, and additional funds for the Water and Sewer Commission due to rising postage costs. Funding for various projects, including tree removal, monument restoration, and match funds for federal grants, was also deliberated.

The board approved the establishment of a donation account managed by the Conservation Commission for a sizable donation from Mr. Dean to restore Porta Pasture. The plan for spending these donations, including hiring consultants and engineers, was also approved.

In preparation for a special town meeting scheduled for October 21, 2024, the board approved the warrant and closed it for submission to the Town Council and Finance Committee for further review. The meeting concluded with a discussion on the Complete Streets grant application, targeting crosswalk upgrades on South Main Street and ADA pedestrian curb ramp enhancements. The motion to move forward with the grant application received unanimous approval.