The town administrator had argued that the proposed rate hike to $8.70 per CCF was necessary to address a structural deficit in the water account, which has been balanced using retained earnings. However, Bob Daylor and Mory May from the IOC presented a contrasting viewpoint, emphasizing that the current rates were sufficient to cover costs and were sustainable. They highlighted Fall River’s decision to keep its rates steady at $4.24, a favorable new water supply agreement with Fall River, and projections indicating a small surplus at the existing rates. The IOC aimed to avoid “rate shock” following a 14% increase the previous year and advised waiting for results from a $15,000 consultant study on water rates before implementing further changes.

Ultimately, after considering these factors and the town’s priority to balance its budget without relying on rate increases, the board opted to retain the current water rate.

Following the water rate discussion, the board unanimously approved the introduction of user fees for municipal electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. The new rates, set at 28 cents per kilowatt hour and a $2 per hour idle fee, are intended to cover operational costs and deter prolonged parking. Previously, the town had subsidized approximately $11,000 annually for EV charging without any user fees. The administrator clarified that the existing ChargePoint network could manage payment processing without infrastructure changes. Board members supported the fee implementation.

Another notable agenda item involved a request for a six-month seasonal trailer permit by John Rodriguez. The application raised questions due to the absence of a clear reason for the trailer’s placement and the applicant’s absence from the meeting. The board typically grants such permits for situations like home reconstruction after a fire, and the lack of information prompted the board to table the request. Concerns from a resident, Douglas Davis, about potential access issues related to a summer road bordering the applicant’s property were also noted. The board decided to continue the public hearing on June 22, requesting more information from the applicant.

The meeting also addressed several community service appointments, including the appointment of Tagan Silera as a full-time emergency medical dispatcher. Silera had previously worked part-time and completed necessary training, receiving unanimous approval from the board. Additionally, the board approved appointments for community service officers, who would assist with traffic direction without police powers, pending background checks and training.

Additionally, the board discussed the future of a significant town building, considering its potential for public and municipal use. A phased approach to redevelopment was advocated, with proposed uses including expanding senior services, accommodating the recreation department, and school administration. The board emphasized the need for input from various town officials and departments to ensure compliance and address safety issues. A proposal for a master plan costing $29,000 was presented, aiming to include a code analysis update, departmental space evaluations, and preliminary designs.

Residents expressed concerns over a separate infrastructure project involving the removal of wetlands and road changes. The project, guided by Massachusetts Department of Transportation recommendations, has sparked objections over potential impacts on flooding and property values.

Finally, the meeting concluded with discussions about a municipal fiber grant and the hiring process for a new director of senior services. The board decided to table the fiber grant discussion due to unresolved uncertainties and moved forward with establishing a screening committee for the senior services director, appointing Mr. Brewer to the committee.