The meeting also addressed ongoing efforts to mitigate the state’s housing crisis. A speaker highlighted the challenges Massachusetts faces in retaining businesses and attracting talent, emphasizing that the state can no longer rely solely on its prestigious educational institutions and high-tech companies.

The conversation around housing also touched on local government resistance, particularly the NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) sentiment, which the speaker argued complicates efforts to increase housing availability. The MBTA Communities Law, requiring municipalities near transit stations to develop housing plans, was discussed, with the state considering stricter measures for non-compliant communities.

The potential development of a new Senior Center and affordable housing on a 50-acre parcel of former agricultural land was another key topic. This initiative aims to integrate a Town Center, Public Safety facilities, recreational components, and affordable housing. The need for collaboration with private nonprofit developers was emphasized, and the discussion acknowledged the town’s housing crisis, affecting approximately 30% of residents despite its affluent appearance.

The Select Board also focused on various financial matters, including a proposal to enhance the town’s budget presentation. A suggestion was made to create a comprehensive budget book to provide clarity and transparency, similar to successful examples from other towns. The discussion recognized the importance of documenting historical context and trends, and a consensus emerged on the need for a structured approach to budget submissions.

Further financial topics included the reconciliation of ARPA funds, with an emphasis on reprogramming these funds by the end of December. The board discussed the feasibility of using ARPA money to temporarily fund positions like a part-time HR role, with the aim of integrating these costs into the town’s budget.

The meeting also covered updates on state budget allocations, including a $110 million investment in regional transit authorities, which was seen as positive despite concerns about disproportionate funding favoring larger urban areas like Boston. The need for equitable distribution of state funds, particularly for rural communities, was a recurring theme.

Additionally, the board addressed personnel changes, with several resignations and new hires presented. Among the changes were the resignations of a COA director and a water technician, and the hiring of a firefighter/EMT and an accounting assistant, all of which were unanimously accepted.