One of a notable topics of discussion was the proposed amendments to the town’s bylaws. The amendments aimed to address various community concerns while maintaining a straightforward process for future discussions. Members of the board emphasized the importance of ensuring that all work near bodies of water, such as lakes, adhered strictly to established processes. Concerns were raised about previous activities conducted without proper oversight. Additionally, the proposed amendments included regulations on audio surveillance, requiring compliance with legal standards to protect residents’ privacy.

They suggested that specific rules should be posted at facility entrances rather than being detailed in the bylaw itself, to avoid misinterpretations by the public.

In another pressing topic, the Select Board addressed the local liquor licensing situation, particularly concerning off-premise beer and wine licenses. There was a recount of a previous decision by the board to deny an application for such a license, which was upheld by the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission (ABCC). The board debated whether the existing three off-premise licenses adequately served the town, especially given the increasing summer population. Comparisons were drawn to other towns, but it was noted that some, like Chatham, are exempt from the same regulations. A member expressed confidence that the current number of licenses was sufficient.

The ABCC estimated about 10,000 seasonal residents in Southwick, a figure that some board members found inflated compared to the town’s permanent population of around 9,800. The conversation underscored the need for a thoughtful approach to licensing that balances business interests with the community’s capacity.

In addition to these discussions, the board addressed community engagement through public meetings. There was a proposal to improve the visibility of board meetings by making video recordings more accessible to residents. The suggestion included broadcasting meetings live or making them available online, such as on YouTube, to enhance public engagement and transparency.

The board also took steps to address administrative needs, such as updating the job description for a new assessor position. The discussion acknowledged the difficulty in finding qualified candidates and emphasized the role’s importance in municipal success. Members recognized the need to modernize the job description and ensure that it met current standards, with input from local assessors encouraged to ensure inclusivity.