One notable discussions centered around the town’s trash collection system. The board deliberated the implications of potentially discontinuing the pay-as-you-throw program, which could lead residents to seek private trash collection services. This move might place a financial burden on those who rely on the town’s services, as it was noted that 10 to 20% of residents currently choose private alternatives. The town is subsidizing trash collection for all households, with the end of the pay-as-you-throw system threatening a $62,000 grant needed by June. There was a proposal to continue providing purple bags and utilizing grant money to support residents in need, such as those involved in food distribution or senior citizens facing financial hardships. The board also considered educational initiatives about waste management, proposing the sale of compost bins at a nominal fee and encouraging residents to attend composting lectures to change waste disposal habits and reduce overall tonnage.

In terms of community services, the board discussed funding for personnel positions at the senior center and community services. A proposal was made for the senior center to cover part of a staff member’s salary through a grant, potentially funding nearly half of her salary. The importance of maintaining the community services coordinator and human resources manager positions was emphasized, with suggestions to allocate $40,000 for each role. However, there were concerns about whether the senior center could provide additional funds to cover the coordinator’s full salary, prompting a need to consult with the senior center director about potential adjustments to her role.

Budget constraints were also evident in the discussion about the health insurance budget, which saw a significant 15.5% increase from the previous year. The board raised questions about negotiating with the insurance provider to find more sustainable options, including introducing an additional insurance tier to offer more employee choices and potentially reduce town costs.

The meeting also highlighted affordable housing initiatives, focusing on the development of two properties and the town’s future housing strategy. The board discussed the need for buffers due to wetlands and the validity of wetland delineations for three years. Ensuring that the Atwood Acres property remains affordable beyond 2029 was a priority, as the town currently has only 4% affordable housing compared to the state’s 10% goal. The lack of a functioning Housing Authority was noted as a challenge in addressing these issues effectively.

Further discussions touched on the management of forested properties, with proposals for a 60% cut in certain areas to generate revenue for affordable housing and enhance wildlife habitats. A conceptual plan was presented for developing a seven-acre wooded site, envisioning ten buildings with a mix of one and two-bedroom apartments. This plan was not definitive, as community input remains crucial.