A significant portion of the meeting centered on the introduction of the CBLT (Commercial Business Light Transition) zoning district. This new proposal aims to mitigate existing zoning conflicts in Chelmsford, particularly in mixed-use areas where residential and industrial zones intersect. The planning board, collaborating with the Northern Middlesex Council of Governments (NEMCOG), identified areas like Kate’s Corner that would benefit from this zoning adjustment. The CBLT district is designed to provide a buffer between residential neighborhoods and industrial areas, allowing for less impactful business activities while preserving the character of residential communities. The proposal includes updates to zoning definitions, use tables, and dimensional requirements, with an emphasis on promoting ultralight manufacturing, such as 3D printing and artisanal trades. These changes seek to align zoning regulations with community needs and reduce the negative impacts of industrial operations near residential zones.

In tandem with zoning changes, the board addressed the ongoing management of Koulis Farm, a parcel of conservation land that has sparked community debate. John Ray, representing a citizens’ petition, emphasized the need to keep Koulis Farm as open fields and recreational land, countering the current trend of unmanaged growth. He pointed out the overgrowth that had obscured the land’s features since mowing ceased in April. The Select Board discussed the importance of clear guidelines for mowing and maintenance, particularly concerning the protection of ecological features such as vernal pools. The conservation commission’s chair, Carl Bishoff, clarified their efforts to establish a conservation restriction for Koulis Farm. Despite these efforts, community members expressed frustration over the perceived lack of action and communication, advocating for a more active role in land management. The board acknowledged the need for clearer agreements and postponed final decisions on the conservation restriction until further dialogue could occur.

Another topic of environmental concern was the proposed home rule petition aimed at restricting the use of second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides. This petition, presented by a representative from Save Chelmsford Wildlife, seeks to protect local wildlife and human health by promoting safer pest control alternatives. These poisons, banned for resale by the EPA in 2015, remain accessible through pest control companies and pose risks to natural predators like owls and hawks. The petition advocates for the use of vitamin D3 as a less harmful substitute, which induces illness more quickly in pests, reducing prolonged suffering. If approved, the petition would enable Chelmsford to develop a bylaw restricting these toxic chemicals, aligning with efforts by other Massachusetts towns to address similar environmental concerns.

The Select Board also considered several articles related to local infrastructure funding. Article 12, which requested approximately $2.5 million for the replacement of the McCarthy School roof, highlighted the focus on maintaining public infrastructure. The roof, nearing the end of its useful life, requires replacement due to leaks and necessary masonry repairs. This project includes updating solar panel systems as part of the broader roof replacement effort. Additionally, Article 13 proposed $500,000 from the sewer enterprise fund for drainage improvements along Westford Street, addressing issues arising from the I-495 bridge replacement.

Financial considerations extended to the potential sale of a property on Smoke Drive, valued at $700,000. The town aims to expedite the sale due to a foreclosure judgment by the Massachusetts Land Court, with the goal of recovering owed taxes and litigation costs. The board unanimously approved a motion authorizing the treasurer to sell the property upon foreclosure.

In other matters, the board approved bid awards for local projects, including designer services for the Colonel Moses Parker Middle School and repairs to the Adams Library building. The school project, awarded to AI3, an architectural firm, totals $1,248,000, with partial reimbursement expected from the Massachusetts School Building Authority. The library project, awarded to Tito Masonry and Construction LLC, costs $105,000.