The focal point of the meeting was the approval of a contract for the new town manager, Jill Khill. The contract was negotiated to include a five-year term with a salary of $220,000 and four weeks of vacation. This decision followed a rigorous selection process, with board members expressing confidence in Khill’s abilities and the positive feedback received from her references. Expressing gratitude towards the screening committee and negotiators, board members highlighted the importance of Khill’s role in steering the town’s future development.

In parallel to the contract approval, attention was given to the implications of the MBTA zoning requirements. Residents and board members voiced concerns about the potential loss of neighborhood character due to increased housing density and reduced parking requirements mandated by the state. A citizens’ petition, Article 37, was discussed, which seeks to have the planning department address these zoning bylaw updates. The board ultimately voted 4-1 in favor of this article.

The debate revealed a tension between adhering to state mandates and preserving the town’s identity. Some board members argued for the need to comply with the MBTA law to secure state grants, while others viewed the law as an unfunded liability that compromised local control.

Further considerations included the broader implications of zoning laws, particularly the potential for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) to alter the existing residential landscape. The board debated the adequacy of current zoning practices and the importance of involving community feedback in planning processes to ensure that developments align with the town’s character and infrastructure capacity.

Beyond zoning, the board addressed infrastructure and budgetary matters, notably the continuation of the Salem Skipper program, an on-demand ride-share service. This program’s funding, partly supported by a $2.3 million grant from Salem, was discussed with an emphasis on its success in meeting local transit demand. Board members expressed optimism about working with the MBTA to possibly reestablish bus services, backed by data from the ride-share program.

The board also reviewed articles related to the HERO Act, which aims to enhance benefits for veterans. The proposed changes would simplify the process for providing exemptions.

Financial deliberations included discussions on various stabilization and trust funds, highlighting the town’s strategy for maintaining fiscal health while considering the tax burden on residents.