The meeting began with a public comment segment where a resident, Mary Joe, presented a petition signed by 211 residents requesting a moratorium on the use of glyphosate for knotweed control on town property. Representing a coalition concerned about the environmental and health impacts of glyphosate, Mary Joe emphasized the petition’s broad support, including endorsements from public health and environmental science professionals. She highlighted the risks associated with glyphosate, referencing its links to court cases resulting in substantial financial damages. “Glyphosate exposure has contributed to hundreds of billions of dollars in court-ordered damages in recent years,” she stated.

Mary Joe raised specific concerns about glyphosate use near wetlands and advocated for alternative knotweed management methods that would involve the community, such as using goats and pigs. She also suggested implementing a notification system for residents about planned spraying, similar to those used for mosquito control. Another participant echoed these sentiments, stressing Shutesbury’s identity as a green community and suggesting animal grazing as a viable alternative to chemical spraying. The Select Board noted these comments for future consideration but did not engage in dialogue during the public comment period.

Following the public comments, the Select Board reviewed and unanimously approved the minutes of the previous meetings held on August 13 and August 22.

The meeting then transitioned to a presentation by Lyn Feldman from LifePath, discussing the Age-Friendly Project, which supports aging residents in Shutesbury and other communities. Feldman outlined the project’s origins and the community feedback collected through surveys and focus groups. She presented an action plan based on the World Health Organization model, focusing on improving access to outdoor spaces, transportation, and health services. Feldman emphasized the need for ADA compliance in parks and public facilities and presented a certificate recognizing Shutesbury as an officially designated Age-Friendly community.

The discussion expanded to include ADA audits for recreation and public facilities. Queries arose about the materials for wheelchair pathways and the specifications for ADA compliance. Feldman noted that new funding secured for LifePath would allow hiring a program director to provide technical assistance to towns.

Attention then turned to transportation initiatives, emphasizing strategies like the Village Neighbors program, which aims to recruit volunteer drivers to assist residents, particularly those in need. The conversation also covered housing, with goals to create accessible housing options for older adults and increase awareness of existing options. Funding availability for housing initiatives and home safety programs was discussed, highlighting partnerships with Community Action of the Pioneer Valley for zero-interest loans for significant home renovations.

The discussion on social participation acknowledged the work by councils on aging and villages. The conversation also touched on civic participation and employment for older adults, including the potential revision of a senior tax work-off program. The importance of effective communication and information dissemination was underscored, with a robust town newsletter identified as a important tool for keeping residents informed.

The meeting also included a presentation regarding the Home Care Program, which highlighted options for individuals seeking personal care assistants. The speaker emphasized the benefits of relationships with familiar individuals and noted that funding could support these arrangements, making them stable and sustainable.

The Select Board then proceeded with the appointment of Cheryl David to the Cultural Council. Cheryl introduced herself, and the board voted unanimously in favor of her appointment.

The agenda shifted to scheduling a meeting with representatives from the Finance Committee and the Personnel Board to discuss the Town Administrator’s contract. Volunteers were sought, and a motion to appoint a select board member to this task was approved.

Next, the Historical Commission presented on the restoration of a guide board, detailing its ongoing restoration and proposing a gazebo-like structure to protect it from winter weather. The proposal required Select Board input, with options including applying for Community Preservation Act (CPA) funding or waiting for another round of CPA funding. Concerns about the design, visibility, and practicality of the structure were discussed, with an estimated cost of around $5,000.