The meeting began with an in-depth presentation from the Lower Green Historic District Study Committee. The committee, led by representatives Robin Ethridge and Lon Hatchmeister, outlined their comprehensive report consisting of 13 slides. The report detailed the formation of the committee in late 2022 and its objectives to establish a local historic district around the Lower Green area. This district would include 24 properties, 15 of which contain buildings—two of them are first-period homes. The committee emphasized the importance of preserving architectural consistency and maintaining the area’s historical integrity. They highlighted that while the Upper Green is on a historic register, it is not yet a local historic district.

The committee’s efforts have involved significant public engagement, including three meetings in locations like Biffield and Plum Island, and a survey which revealed that 93% of respondents supported preserving local historic places. The proposal outlines specific bylaws ensuring that any development in the district aligns with the historical landscape, while not dictating minor details such as paint colors or chimney styles. Instead, the focus remains on overarching architectural character and visual harmony.

The discussion also covered the procedures for homeowners wishing to make changes, detailing application and review processes, along with potential fines for bylaw violations. A planned public hearing will precede the report’s submission at the town meeting for final approval. During the dialogue, a member highlighted the historical significance of preserving structures like one-room schoolhouses, noting the rarity of such preservation efforts nationwide.

Attention was also directed to the survey process. With only 29 responses submitted, the committee recognized the need for broader outreach. There was acknowledgment that low turnout at town meetings often hinders engagement, prompting a call for a more comprehensive communication strategy.

The meeting then addressed an amendment to a special permit concerning a solar panel project on Boston Road, which included the relocation of a police firing range. This change was necessitated by the firing range’s original position interfering with the proposed access road for the solar installation. The proposal received review and approval from both the police and fire departments, considering factors like proximity to wetlands and conditions for site cleanup. The board unanimously approved the amendment, emphasizing the project’s benefit to the town by maintaining property use while advancing solar energy initiatives.

Board discussions included technical reviews of the solar project plans and inquiries about the firing range’s distance from Boston Road. The new location was confirmed to meet all safety and environmental requirements, with the shooter facing away from the road.

Additionally, the meeting featured a request for a minor modification to a subdivision plan involving the installation of stone gateway pillars and entrance gates on Florence Bushy Lane. The board considered fire access and dark sky compliance. The proposal was approved unanimously, contingent on administrative review of the lighting fixtures.

The meeting also touched on ongoing issues with The Cottages Commercial LLC, particularly concerning a “merch shack” that faced a cease and desist order due to expired permits.

As the session concluded, updates were provided on future public meetings addressing open space and recreation plans, and the Plum Island Turnpike Resiliency Improvements Project. These meetings aim to gather community feedback on significant local initiatives.