The primary focus of the meeting was on a series of petitions submitted by Verizon and Eversource for the installation of new utility poles along Mendle Road, Perry Hill Road, and other areas. Residents expressed their unease with the proposed placements, particularly when poles were planned for the middle of residential properties rather than along property lines, raising issues of visual intrusion and potential impact on property value. A representative from Verizon addressed the board, explaining the necessity for midspan poles to support heavier cables, yet board members remained skeptical, questioning the engineering rationale and its deviation from traditional practices.

One board member highlighted the difficulty in making decisions that would affect homeowners who were unable to attend the midday meeting due to work commitments, advocating for direct engagement with affected residents. This led to a motion to continue discussions on the pole installation petitions until May 13th, allowing time for further information gathering and community input. The motion was approved unanimously.

Additionally, a new pole proposed for Middle Road drew attention, as its location near a resident’s driveway was deemed problematic. The board agreed to revisit this issue alongside the other petitions. The meeting also featured a discussion with a resident, Ted Chopper, who shared his ongoing struggles with sagging utility lines obstructing his driveway.

The meeting proceeded with a transition in leadership, as a new chair was appointed following a unanimous vote. The outgoing chair expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, while the incoming chair praised the hard work and collaboration of fellow board members.

Financial matters took center stage as the board addressed the renewal of a bond anticipation note (BAN) for the town. An extension of the BAN until October 2025 was proposed due to the absence of funding appropriations at the spring town meeting. With a current outstanding balance of $570,000, the board acknowledged the urgency of securing additional funds at the fall town meeting. A decision was made to renew the BAN for six months to avoid frequent re-banding, with unanimous approval from the board.

Discussion also included a detailed financial update from the town’s finance department. Efforts were underway to streamline budget processes, enhance transparency, and improve financial practices. The implementation of a content management system within the MUNIS software was highlighted as a step towards reducing physical paperwork and increasing efficiency. The board emphasized the importance of maintaining solid financial stewardship to uphold public trust and credibility.

In the realm of public safety, the board celebrated the award of a $9,500 grant from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security. These funds will be used to upgrade essential fire department equipment. The board also acknowledged the Chief’s achievement in obtaining the Massachusetts Professional Emergency Manager Associate level, recognizing their dedication to enhancing emergency management capabilities.

Infrastructure improvements were another key topic, with ongoing paving and drainage work on Hamlin Street receiving positive feedback from the board. The recent roadwork was commended for its quality, and drivers were urged to exercise caution due to increased speeding reports post-construction. The board also discussed future paving projects, with an emphasis on careful planning and budgeting.

The meeting concluded with preparations for two executive sessions, focusing on collective bargaining strategies and the town administrator search. The board decided not to reconvene in public session after these discussions, highlighting the sensitive nature of the topics at hand.