One notable issue discussed was the deteriorating condition of King Philip Road, which has raised significant safety concerns among residents. Measurements of the road showed severe narrowing, with widths as narrow as 12 feet, complicating repair efforts and raising safety alarms. Erosion and floodplain encroachments have further exacerbated the problem, hiding dangerous potholes and uneven surfaces. Concerns were voiced about the road’s safety, particularly for children, with reports of injuries from the hazardous conditions. Residents emphasized the need for immediate repairs to the most dangerous areas and called for a collaborative approach to address the broader issues later.

The legal and logistical challenges of improving King Philip Road were also highlighted. The road is classified as a private way, which restricts the use of public funds for repairs. While a special act could allow for permanent repairs, this would require town meeting authorization and potentially lengthy legislative processes. Alternatively, making the road a public way involves a statutory layout process, which includes planning board meetings, select board discussions, and town meeting votes, as well as acquiring rights from property owners.

Residents expressed frustration over the perceived inequality in road maintenance, questioning why certain areas receive less attention despite being on the same street. Some noted that while tax dollars contribute to the town’s upkeep, the returns in the form of well-maintained roads are lacking. The condition of King Philip Road was contrasted with past paving efforts on the first 700 feet, which did not adhere to current guidelines. It was noted that further acceptance of the road as a public way would necessitate additional processes and approvals.

To streamline communication, it was suggested that residents appoint a spokesperson to represent their collective concerns. This suggestion aimed to facilitate more effective dialogue with the board and ensure that the community’s voice is heard. The urgency of the situation was underscored by the repeated emphasis on safety issues, particularly for children who use the road regularly.

In addition to the road discussions, the board addressed administrative matters, including the appointment of Barbara O’Hanian to the Council on Aging and the resignation of John Harold, the assistant water sewer superintendent. The board also approved a change in the Norton Traffic Study Committee’s name to the Norton Traffic Safety Committee and increased its membership, appointing Keith Silva and Steve Hornsby to the committee.

Budget discussions were another focal point of the meeting. The board reviewed the finance committee’s recommendations, including the proposed use of $1,847,719 in free cash and $500,000 from the stabilization fund. The ambulance receipts were increased to provide additional funding for the fire department budget. Changes in specific funds were highlighted, including an increase in the Hicks fund and adjustments to the reserve fund, which might necessitate future alterations.

A project update from Robinson Communities on the DEG Grand Randle site was presented, detailing plans for a facility with independent living and memory care units. Questions arose about whether these developments would count against the town’s 40B affordable housing requirements.

The board also discussed the condition of King Philip Road, deemed dangerous due to its classification as a private way. Legal limitations on funding repairs were explained, with potential solutions including pursuing a statutory layout process to make the road public or seeking a special act from the state legislature.