The board approved host community agreements for three cannabis businesses: debilitating medical condition treatment centers, Green Jean Farms LLC, and Toral Verde Massachusetts. Concerns centered around an indemnification clause that might not be approved by the Cannabis Control Commission. The clause intends to provide legal protection to both the municipality and the companies. If rejected, the board will not need to reconvene to amend the agreement, as they authorized the Town Administrator to make necessary changes. A representative from one of the companies expressed gratitude for the collaborative process and emphasized the importance of flexibility in the agreement. A nine-year limitation on collecting certain fees raised concerns, as it could impede the municipality’s ability to recoup costs related to the businesses.

In another notable discussion, the board addressed a film project by a New York-based independent producer, who has screened films at the Cannes International Film Festival. The project, a dramatic thriller, will be filmed locally in Shelburne, Buckland, Colrain, and the iconic Whately diner. The producer reassured the board that the film would adhere to safety regulations and cause no disruptions. The film follows a retired true crime podcaster whose sister goes missing, with a light-hearted assurance that scenes at the diner would be simple, involving “just two people having breakfast.”

The board turned its attention to a digital equity plan, emphasizing free local Wi-Fi access and addressing cybersecurity awareness, particularly for seniors. The board aims to establish a device lending program through the library and negotiate lower internet subscription rates with local ISPs. The board discussed the potential creation of a town-owned Internet Service Provider, inspired by the town of Lett’s experience. A board member with a technology background expressed readiness to engage in ISP discussions. The board unanimously adopted goals to maintain public Wi-Fi, support programs in dead zones, and improve cybersecurity education.

Election logistics were another area of focus. The need for additional election night counters and police presence at polling locations was discussed. A community member highlighted that five more volunteers could expedite vote counting. Suggestions were made to recruit volunteers at an upcoming Fall Festival. The board also approved a police detail for the November polls, following recommendations from the Department of Homeland Security. Concerns about police presence potentially intimidating voters were addressed, with reassurances that local police had been present at past elections without issues.

The board also tackled procedural matters, including the scheduling of a special town meeting. The meeting was postponed from October 22nd to November 12th, accommodating certification requirements from the town accountant. The board ensured the availability of the moderator for the new date. Financial discussions included the finance committee’s recommendation to use reserve funds instead of free cash for a $450 bill from the previous year.

Building code revisions were deliberated, with the board aiming to clarify language in the final draft. The board plans to address these revisions in detail during their next meeting. Additionally, the board discussed posting an opening for an administrative assistant for the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals, considering combining it with the Community Development Administrator role for better retention.

The meeting also covered an Agricultural Preservation Restriction for a property on River Road, with the board approving a request to reduce the notification period from 120 to 60 days. Updates on a senior center feasibility study were shared, with a public forum scheduled for community input. The board discussed transitioning from a memorandum of understanding to a consortium agreement for future property acquisitions, emphasizing community collaboration.