The meeting turned its attention first to the farmers market, which has been experiencing disappointing customer turnout despite promotional efforts on social media. The board expressed concern that events coinciding with holidays, such as Father’s Day, may have contributed to the low attendance. Suggestions to attract more visitors included advertising in surrounding towns and distributing flyers in high-traffic areas. There was a debate about whether the term “farmers market” accurately captured the event’s appeal, with ideas such as “vendor fair” being considered to potentially broaden its attraction. The board discussed incorporating diverse offerings like a health and wellness fair, petting zoo, or a “touch a truck” event with the local fire department to enhance the market’s appeal.

The board members agreed on the importance of retaining vendors and ensuring the event’s success moving forward. They acknowledged the challenges of its first year but emphasized the need to plan for future events with an eye toward securing commitments from vendors for the upcoming year.

On a more unexpected note, the meeting addressed a septic tank issue that arose during renovation efforts at a local establishment. A representative from CNN Pizza revealed the discovery of a “mystery septic tank” beneath the pavement while plumbing two new apartments. The board discussed the need for an engineer to determine the tank’s connection to the leaching field, noting that if the tank was installed in 1985, it would require an upgrade to meet current standards. The representative expressed frustration over the situation, particularly given the owner’s two decades of operation without knowledge of the tank’s existence. The board clarified that the tank’s condition and necessary upgrades were only uncovered due to the renovations, leaving no room for previous knowledge of its state.

Amidst these discussions, public health initiatives also took center stage. The board discussed an upcoming blood drive scheduled for August 15th, with only six participants signed up, and a flu clinic planned for October 21st. Efforts to promote these events through social media and local organizations were emphasized, with a proposal to combine the flu clinic with a health and wellness fair for greater engagement. The board also revisited the previous year’s unsuccessful attempt to host a breast cancer mammogram van. A campaign involving social media and community messages to honor breast cancer survivors and victims was proposed, alongside potential collaborations with local organizations for increased visibility.

Further discussions highlighted the importance of addressing public health concerns related to ticks and mosquitoes, with a partnership with Plymouth County Outreach proposed to educate the community. The board also emphasized the need for Narcan education and overdose awareness, recognizing the importance of open discussions to reduce stigma and promote education.

The board discussed ongoing issues with the payroll process, specifically the discomfort among members in signing payroll documents without the capacity to monitor employee hours adequately. Members debated the responsibilities of board members versus staff management, acknowledging the need for oversight without micromanaging staff.

In public input, resident Robert Woods advocated for the continuation of the stormwater committee, emphasizing its importance to the town and suggesting it be placed under the board of selectmen. The board members responded positively.