The police department raised alarms about the narrow width of Crosby Lane, emphasizing that the current 20-foot entrance is insufficient for emergency vehicles compared to the 40-foot standard seen elsewhere. The fire department echoed these concerns, stressing the need for a reliable water supply, clear hydrant accessibility, and a comprehensive fire apparatus access plan. Meanwhile, the Department of Public Works reserved final judgment due to insufficient detail in the proposal but highlighted potential problems with snow storage, stormwater management, and site logistics.

The Board of Health added to these worries, pointing out the project’s potential impact on the town’s sewer system capacity. A representative from Crosby Lane articulated the community’s opposition, arguing that safety concerns were inadequately addressed and urging the town to resist state-level approvals. He drew attention to possible legal and financial repercussions for residents challenging the project, citing recent court decisions that could financially burden those who oppose it.

Additional public comments reinforced this opposition. Residents underscored the project’s misalignment with the neighborhood’s character and its potential to increase police activity and strain existing infrastructure. A participant via Zoom shared fears of sewer line backups and the broader community impact, describing the project as more of a financial maneuver than a beneficial local development.

In response, the board committed to drafting a letter to articulate the town’s position. Given Chelmsford’s current standing below the 10% affordable housing threshold, board members acknowledged the ZBA’s limited leverage in potentially denying the project, emphasizing the importance of voicing safety and suitability concerns.

Besides the housing proposal, the meeting addressed the need to amend town bylaws to comply with new federal floodplain regulations. The board discussed revising floodplain districts, which will require further review and potential amendments at the upcoming town meeting. Additionally, a street acceptance article for Wood Buy Terrace was noted, with integration into the town’s formal street list under consideration.

Financial discussions took a portion of the meeting, focusing on the fiscal year 2026 operating budget and the implications of the governor’s proposed budget on local aid. The board highlighted a modest 2.2% increase in unrestricted General Government Aid, yet noted that Chelmsford remains a minimum aid community under Chapter 70 funding. With health insurance premiums expected to rise significantly, by about 17.5%, the board grappled with the challenge of balancing limited revenue growth against escalating costs, forecasting a likely increase in taxes with a corresponding decrease in services.

The board also celebrated several grant awards, including a substantial $225,000 grant for firefighter safety equipment and funds for a tree planting initiative at the local dog park. These grants were welcomed as valuable contributions to community safety and environmental efforts.

Lastly, the meeting covered administrative matters, including the approval of several appointments and reappointments to local committees. The board approved Penny Shay’s appointment to the Council on Aging and confirmed reappointments to the holiday decorating committee, reflecting ongoing community engagement and volunteerism.