Foremost among the meeting’s discussions was the issue of water supply protection, particularly in light of concerns raised by a resident, Ken Weiss Manel, about potential contamination risks from non-compliant sand and salt mixtures stored in sensitive areas. The Select Board, acting as water commissioners, delved into the complexities of maintaining water quality while ensuring public safety on roads. The Department of Public Works (DPW) was tasked with finding compliant solutions for these mixtures, as temporary measures like tarping were not considered sustainable. Recommendations included installing signs to alert the public when entering sensitive groundwater areas, a move aimed at increasing awareness and encouraging responsible environmental practices.

In tandem with environmental concerns, the Select Board spent significant time discussing the town’s economic development strategy, highlighting a proposal to lease a portion of the former Center School property to a nonprofit arts or community organization. This leasing agreement aims to foster a public-private partnership, viewed as essential for advancing projects identified by the Permanent Building Committee. The economic development conversation also touched on the creation of an Economic Development Special Revenue Account, linked to the town’s meals tax, which would funnel revenue towards economic initiatives. However, legislative action is required to establish this account, prompting questions about the timeline and implementation of these strategies. The board expressed the need for a discussion on how the excise tax revenue would be utilized, with plans to explore these economic development efforts in future meetings.

Health and safety concerns were also prominent during the meeting, particularly regarding private well water testing for PFAS (per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances). The board approved a motion to include an article for voluntary PFAS testing in the annual town meeting warrant. This decision aims to encourage transparency and informed decision-making among residents without imposing mandatory disclosure requirements that could hinder testing.

The meeting addressed pressing budgetary issues, notably the financial implications of constructing an adaptive playground. The proposed project, estimated to cost around $1.2 million, raised concerns about overcommitting funds in a year with multiple competing priorities. The Community Preservation Committee (CPC) recommended allocating $300,000, advocating for a collaborative funding approach that might include free cash and grants. The board members expressed strong support for the playground. However, concerns about funding without raising taxes or compromising other community services were prevalent. The possibility of utilizing free cash in combination with CPC funds was discussed.

The budgetary discussions extended to broader town finances, with the town manager presenting a comprehensive budget transmittal that adhered to the two-and-a-half percent limit and highlighted a significant shortfall of $1.8 million. The town was directed to reduce departmental requests, resulting in proposed cuts to services and personnel. The board deliberated over options to address the shortfall, including using free cash for one-time expenditures or pursuing a proposition to override.

The meeting also included updates on procedural matters, such as amending the quorum requirement for the Water and Sewer Advisory Board and addressing double pole issues. A unanimous vote approved modifications to the board’s regulations regarding pole wire and antenna locations, although enforcement challenges were acknowledged.

In a lighter vein, the board discussed a proposal for a ceremonial bonfire event planned by the class of 2026, which received unanimous support contingent on safety measures and compliance with fire chief conditions. The proposal underscored the community’s enthusiasm for events that foster engagement while adhering to safety protocols.