The meeting began with the Chief of Police highlighting the exceptional work of Ayer Police Department personnel who responded to a critical missing child case. On September 9, 2024, a young child had wandered from home, clad only in a diaper, and disappeared into nearby woods. The situation prompted a rapid mobilization of police resources, led by Sergeant Eric Pearson. The Chief remarked on the emotional significance of the incident, expressing pride in the officers’ dedication and the joy of reuniting the child with their mother. Although Davis is set to leave the department soon, his contributions were formally recognized with a letter of commendation, making the acknowledgment particularly notable.

Turning to healthcare concerns, the board addressed the closure of the Nashoba Valley Medical Center, which has affected local emergency medical services. The Chief of the fire department detailed the challenges faced by EMS, with ambulance transport times extending up to two hours due to increased demand and logistical hurdles. The situation has resulted in ambulances frequently crossing paths en route to various emergencies, raising concerns about adequate station coverage and staff availability. The Chief noted the department’s strategy of cross-staffing ambulances and fire trucks to manage these demands, though staffing levels remain a concern as the pressure mounts.

Compounding these issues, the Chief reported a particularly busy day when 14 emergency runs were made, leading to a backlog at Emerson Hospital’s emergency room, where 48 patients awaited treatment. Such situations underscore the strain on regional healthcare facilities. In response, the Chief is exploring funding opportunities through a Department of Public Health grant, though it primarily covers equipment and training rather than staffing costs. Plans are underway to enhance the department’s capabilities by securing additional vehicles equipped for paramedic use to better handle peak demand periods.

The board also discussed a potential collaboration with the governor’s working groups, aimed at addressing the repercussions of the Nashoba Valley Medical Center’s closure. The town manager has been appointed co-chair of a group tasked with exploring solutions, alongside the Chief of Police, to tackle the immediate concerns of emergency medical response, healthcare access, and the future of the hospital facility itself. Ayer’s board expressed frustration over the lack of engagement from the governor’s office, highlighting the need for state and federal support to maintain local healthcare services. A recommendation was made for drafting a third letter to the governor, urging a dialogue to address the crisis.

In other business, the board focused on appointments to the Senior Center Site Selection and Building Committee and the newly formed working group for the property on Sandy Pond Road. Linda Collins and Bonnie Tillettson were appointed as regular and alternate members, respectively, to the Senior Center Committee. Their backgrounds in public outreach and environmental issues were considered assets for the committee’s future endeavors. For the 71 Sandy Pond Road working group, Ed Or and Jacob Salon were appointed as primary members, with Alex Hack and Michelle Rigs joining as alternates. The board noted the high interest in these roles and the importance of coordinating meeting schedules to accommodate all participants effectively.

The meeting also included updates from the Parks Department, with an approved change order for Kitty Junction playground improvements and discussions on funding for an assistant Parks Director position. Additionally, the board approved the layout of Shaker Pond Road as a public way and discussed a streetlight issue at Adam Street.