The fire chief detailed that this collaboration has been a topic of discussion for several years, with documentation indicating evaluations since 2015. Previous hesitations from neighboring municipalities have shifted, with Tyngsborough now expressing readiness to expand their services. While Trinity has been a reliable service, their slower response times prompted the exploration of alternative options. The chief assured that Tyngsborough’s personnel would be familiar with Dunstable, maintaining a consistent quality of care despite Trinity’s larger organizational resources. Mutual aid arrangements would persist.

Board members expressed cautious optimism about the proposal, acknowledging the historical context and potential vulnerabilities if Tyngsborough’s resources were stretched thin. Concerns about staffing levels and equipment were addressed, with Tyngsborough hiring to meet service demands. The broader implications of such a partnership were discussed, with members recognizing the potential benefits of regionalizing emergency services. The urgency of timely EMS response was reiterated, emphasizing the life-saving potential of improved response times.

In addition to the emergency services proposal, the meeting addressed budget-related matters, focusing on a recommended operating budget of $14,191,765, with a necessary general override of $480,841. This override will be presented to residents at the upcoming annual town meeting to maintain existing services amidst rising costs. Despite efforts to engage the community, participation in budget discussions has been notably low, with only seven individuals attending multiple sessions. The board emphasized the importance of representing diverse community demographics in budgetary decisions, urging for public support to ensure that services are not disrupted.

Further discussions at the meeting included reviewing draft articles for the town’s warrant, addressing capital improvements, and adjusting veterans’ benefits based on cost-of-living increases. A notable proposal involved enforcing the collection of fees for permits by allowing the town to place liens on properties with unpaid fees. This measure aims to address financial shortfalls and ensure compliance.

The board also considered amendments to floodplain district bylaws, working with the Department of Conservation and Recreation to update floodplain maps. These changes are not expected to alter property classifications, and a public hearing by the planning board is anticipated.

Attention turned to the upcoming elections, with ballot questions approved for additional real estate and personal property taxes to support the operating budget and school district assessments. The necessity of these measures was underscored by community concerns over emergency response times, prompting ongoing conversations with the town of Tink Pharaoh about potential emergency services partnerships.

In other matters, a motion was passed for the town administrator to finalize terms for the intermunicipal agreement with Tyngsborough. Additionally, the board approved a waiver of the town’s right of first refusal for property on Quan Street, allowing a resident to install a well. Concerns about illegal dumping in the area were noted, prompting calls for cleanup action.

The board also granted a liquor license for a block party organized by the Nishoba Club, with conditions to ensure controlled alcohol distribution and compliance with insurance and safety requirements. Discussions emphasized the necessity of limiting alcohol consumption to approved vendors, with police and fire department oversight.

Towards the meeting’s conclusion, concerns were raised about the library’s repair status, given budget constraints. State funds had been allocated for some repairs, but uncertainty remains about the overall budget. Maintenance issues at the town hall and recent work on the gazebo were also addressed, with follow-up on the quality of completed work.