A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the MBTA Communities Act, which mandates compliance with state zoning requirements for communities with access to public transit. The Select Board deliberated on whether to present a 10% or 25% housing plan to the state, with members expressing the need for more inclusive community discussions and a coordinated approach with the Planning Board. The board acknowledged that Milton’s classification as a rapid transit community poses zoning challenges and debated seeking an extension from the state to develop a comprehensive action plan. The urgency to address these zoning requirements stems from the board’s concern over potential future impacts on the town and the importance of securing funding for various town services.

The Select Board highlighted the importance of engaging the community in these discussions, expressing frustration over the lack of joint meetings with the Planning Board since October 2022. Concerns were raised about the community’s limited involvement in decision-making, and the board underscored the need for transparency and public input. There was a consensus on drafting a letter to the state.

In addition to zoning matters, the board discussed a significant conservation initiative involving tree removals and maintenance of public roadways. The project requires compliance with both state and municipal laws and involves collaboration with various agencies, including the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) and the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA). The board considered adding a condition to the order of conditions, requiring adherence to the tree replacement plan, and stressed the importance of minimizing environmental disturbances. Special conditions such as regular reporting, environmental monitoring, and erosion controls were approved to ensure the project’s alignment with environmental standards.

The meeting also touched on the Milton Ponet Estuary Survey Project and collaboration with the Nepon City River Watershed Association. The board discussed ongoing wetland management projects and expressed optimism about overcoming hurdles with the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA). Funding opportunities, including Community Preservation Committee (CPC) funds and coastal zone management resources, were explored to support these initiatives. The board emphasized the importance of bonding as a potential funding mechanism for larger projects and highlighted the need for public participation in future meetings.

In other business, the Select Board addressed administrative matters, including committee appointments and upcoming town meeting articles. The board acknowledged the challenges of transitioning between elections and expressed gratitude to former members for their service. Discussions on committee appointments included the Affordable Housing Trust, Capital Improvement Planning Committee, and the Massachusetts Port Authority Community Advisory Committee, among others. The board emphasized the importance of re-establishing the finance committee and ensuring its alignment with the town’s needs.