The potential designation of the Deerfield River as a national wild river took center stage, capturing the attention of both the Selectboard and community members. Chris Curtis from the Deerfield River Watershed Association presented findings from a comprehensive study on the river’s eligibility for this status. The designation process, which has been ongoing for three years, seeks to recognize the river’s outstanding natural and recreational values, including its reputation for whitewater boating and trout fishing. The study identified multiple segments of the river and its tributaries as eligible for designation, citing scenic gorges, old-growth forests, and unique geological features.

Support for the initiative was widespread, as evidenced by endorsements from fourteen Massachusetts towns and twelve organizations. Congressional backing is strong, with all seven members from Vermont and Massachusetts, including Congresswoman and Senator Markey, supporting the legislation needed to advance the designation. The board discussed the next steps, which involve formal adoption of the study by the involved communities and a petition to Congress, with potential alternative routes through the state’s governor if federal action lags.

The meeting also saw discussions on the insurance rate increase, which has been a source of frustration for town officials. The compounded 38% rise since January was attributed to rising health insurance costs, with the latest increase of 20% effective October 1. This prompted concerns about the town’s budgeting capabilities and the financial burden of $85,533 it represents. Members expressed dissatisfaction with the transparency of the insurance trust’s management, particularly the lack of access to claims data due to the town’s small size. Questions were raised about the trust’s decision-making process and the justification for multiple rate hikes within a short period.

The board explored potential strategies to manage the financial impact, including the use of free cash or general stabilization funds, although limitations on OPED funds were noted. The possibility of altering health plan structures to include higher deductibles was discussed, but there were reservations about the potential effects on employees. The sentiment was that the situation was part of a larger systemic issue affecting local governments in the region, with other towns facing similar challenges.

In addition to these major topics, the Selectboard addressed several other issues throughout the meeting. A motion was made to approve the hiring of Jolene Lavali as the new assistant treasurer and tax collector, which was seconded and approved. The board also deliberated on a conservation restriction request for a 4.5-acre land parcel, which is part of a larger 132-acre area. The land, featuring a trail network developed in collaboration with Williamsburg Woodland Trails, was unanimously approved for conservation.

Infrastructure discussions included a grant application for a rural and tribal assistance pilot program aimed at repairing embankments along Shelburne Falls Road. The proposed grant of $348,000, requiring no matching funds from the town, was approved, with board members emphasizing the preference for nature-based solutions.

Unexpectedly, the board encountered a request from Paul Katanzaro from UMass to publish a historic photograph believed to be owned by the town. With the original photographer unidentified, the board consented to the photograph’s use.

Town Administrator Véronique Blanchard provided updates on several town projects, including the transition to a new IT service provider, Source Pass. Concerns were raised about unexpected costs related to hardware upgrades necessary for cloud services, prompting discussions about possible community compact IT grants to offset expenses.