The swap shed initiative was a focal point of the meeting. The program, described as experimental, seeks to reduce waste disposal costs by allowing residents to exchange items instead of discarding them. The shed will operate during the same hours as the transfer station, with access controlled by designated personnel. The board emphasized the importance of managing the shed’s operations to prevent disputes among patrons and ensure items are in good, clean condition. Patrons will be limited to bringing in three items per visit to prevent monopolization by resellers.

There was thorough discussion on the operational controls needed, including time limits for using the shed to avoid overcrowding. A flexible approach was suggested, allowing attendants to impose time limits based on the volume of patrons rather than a fixed duration. The board recognized the necessity of establishing clear rules and ensuring the transfer station attendants have adequate authority to enforce them. A mission statement was proposed to inform the public about the swap shed’s goals, and the board expressed openness to revising language as needed.

Simultaneously, the board approved a composting initiative aimed at reducing household waste. The initiative includes providing compost bins to residents at a reduced cost, supported by state funding. The board discussed the potential for significant cost savings and environmental benefits, highlighting that composting could divert up to 250,000 pounds of food waste from disposal annually, saving approximately $26,000. Educational materials, including flyers with a QR code for more information, will be distributed throughout the town.

Additionally, the board addressed personnel matters, including the resignation of Nicholas Reynolds from the highway department after nine years of service. The board expressed gratitude for Reynolds’ contributions and discussed the urgency of filling his position. A related topic was the proposed hiring of an assistant foreman for the highway department. The board debated the necessity of the position, considering the current foreman’s workload and the need for precise job descriptions. Ultimately, they decided to table the job posting for further review.

The board also discussed the resignation of Robert J. Woods from the planning board, while he will remain on the sewer commission until his term ends. The board acknowledged Woods’ service and moved to include the planning board vacancy on the upcoming town election ballot. Furthermore, the board approved contracts for Hannerfords and Johnny’s Market, resolving pending payment issues and acknowledging the challenges faced during the contract process.

In personnel matters, the board addressed the donation of sick time for an employee expecting a child. The board agreed to grant 100 hours of sick time to meet the 12-week leave outlined in the Family and Medical Leave Act, with the option for the employee to request additional time if needed.

Other notable discussions included a public notice about a timewide parking ban to facilitate snow removal, the upcoming Dighton Lions Club Food Bank event, and the Southeast New England Agricultural Conference and Trade Show hosted by the Bristol County Agricultural High School. The town administrator provided updates on the debt exclusion process and outreach efforts for potential renovations or rebuilding of the Dighton Elementary School, as well as ongoing grant applications for infrastructure improvements.