The discussion about the proposed community center took center stage, underscoring its importance for Carlisle’s seniors and broader community. The Select Board considered the possibility of starting with a modular senior center on Mosley land, which could later expand into a full-fledged community center. This phased approach was suggested to manage costs while meeting immediate needs.

Members of the Council on Aging and Human Services highlighted the growing demand for senior services, including social activities, wellness programs, and assistance with daily tasks. They emphasized the need for a dedicated space for these programs, noting that current facilities are spread across multiple locations, complicating access and reducing participation. The lack of a central hub was seen as a barrier to fostering community connections, particularly for seniors who may struggle with transportation or mobility issues.

A representative from the Carlisle Cultural Council expressed enthusiasm for the community center project and stressed the need for additional space for cultural activities and events. The existing venues, such as the library, are insufficient for accommodating larger gatherings, leading to scheduling conflicts. The proposed community center could serve as a multifunctional space for performances, workshops, and other community activities, thus enhancing the town’s cultural offerings.

The Select Board discussed the importance of formalizing the community center project to enable fundraising and planning efforts. This included proposing the formation of a committee to involve members from various community groups. The discussion also touched on previous studies and community surveys that identified a strong desire for a community center.

Alongside the community center initiative, the meeting addressed the town’s road maintenance and capital planning process. The board reviewed data from a summer road maintenance hearing and discussed integrating a five-year road maintenance plan into the capital planning and budget processes. Utilizing the pavement condition index (PCI), the board prioritized road projects based on community feedback and expert assessments. They emphasized the need for a structured approach to road management, balancing immediate maintenance needs with long-term planning.

Specific road projects, such as the necessary drainage fixes on Pheasant Hill Road, were discussed in detail. The board acknowledged the importance of addressing underlying issues before proceeding with surface repairs to avoid redundant work or future complications. The financial implications of these projects were also considered, highlighting the need for careful budget management and potential adjustments based on funding availability and community input.

The board explored innovative ways to increase attendance at town meetings, noting the low turnout of around 4% of registered voters. A recent survey identified child care and scheduling conflicts as significant barriers to participation, prompting the board to consider solutions such as offering child care during meetings and changing the meeting day to a more convenient time. Engaging residents through social media, podcasts, and integrating town meeting discussions into existing community events were also proposed as strategies to boost engagement.

Recognizing the importance of effective communication, the board discussed creating a plan to improve outreach efforts. Ideas included leveraging current community events to promote town meetings, using social media platforms to reach younger demographics, and producing podcasts to provide updates on town affairs. The board emphasized the need for early and clear communication about town meeting agendas and warrant articles to encourage informed participation.

The meeting also highlighted ongoing community projects and volunteer efforts, such as the successful coordination of Revolutionary War veterans’ rededication ceremonies and the collaboration on hydrologic studies. These initiatives were recognized as vital contributions to the town’s heritage and environmental stewardship.