The most notable development was the approval of DRA (Drum Rosane and Anderson) as the architectural firm for the Porter Memorial Library project. This decision followed an extensive selection process that included reviewing 40 responses to a request for proposals and conducting interviews with three firms. The evaluation committee unanimously selected DRA, citing their extensive experience with library projects and a strong working relationship with the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners. DRA’s proposal included impressive preliminary sketches based on thorough site research, and the firm’s team was noted for its expertise in library design.

The project, a multi-phase undertaking, requires a financial commitment. The Select Board discussed the recommendation to raise and appropriate $210,000 for the first year. This amount is part of a larger stabilization fund for the library, which the trustees had already approved. Additionally, the board explored the contract with the Owner’s Project Manager, noting that the firm’s initial service estimate was reduced from $125,000 to $118,000 without losing any deliverables. The board voted to approve DRA for the design phase, with further approvals needed for construction.

Infrastructure issues, particularly those related to the highway department, also commanded attention. A report highlighted the department’s achievements in the absence of its head, focusing on paving plans for Cobble Mountain Road and South Street Extension. These projects, requiring Chapter 90 funding, aim to simplify winter maintenance by transitioning a dirt section of South Street Extension to asphalt. The estimated cost stands at around $300,000. Concerns about low fuel supply for the town prompted discussions about securing additional funding. The department also planned to address problematic utility pole placements with Eversource, as these could hinder future road widening on Gore Road.

A request for a building inspection report on the salt shed’s structural integrity was raised, with the highway department expressing frustration over a six-month delay in receiving it. The need for clarity on this report was emphasized, with plans to follow up.

Community concerns were also addressed, notably in the area of battery energy storage systems. A report detailed communications with Senator Mark’s office regarding state support for small communities and discussed a precedent in Westfield, where public concerns led a developer to refocus efforts elsewhere. Support for legislation to establish buffer zones around such facilities is anticipated, with efforts underway to educate residents on voicing concerns to local officials.

Sewage issues on Maple Lane were another point of concern. It was suspected that sewage was entering a culvert pipe, prompting the Select Board to discuss communication strategies. A registered letter had gone unanswered, leading to a decision to hand-deliver notices to ensure proactive engagement.

The meeting also covered several appointments and resignations. Notably, Dave Hopson and Richard Gates were appointed to the Agricultural Commission, while Margaret McCuskkey and Mary Carlin received appointments to the American Disabilities Act Commission. The resignation of Jeff Allen from the Select Board, effective April 15, 2025, was accepted, and a proposal to appoint Tommy Aley as a liaison to the highway department was discussed, with plans to establish guidelines before proceeding.

The board agreed to accept the highway department’s goals, recognizing the need to allow the new superintendent time to adapt and suggesting the goals serve as a flexible framework. The relationship between goals and merit-based pay was considered, with the existing union contract in mind.