The meeting began with a public hearing concerning the approval of a Class 2 auto sales license for “Adriano Vicente Used Cars,” planned for a location previously known as the doll store on Main Street. The proposal, presented by Mr. Eli D. Ro, had been introduced to the board weeks earlier, and members were satisfied with the examination of the application. The board settled on allowing a total of 15 vehicles on the property, with a stipulation against performing auto repairs on-site. This condition aligns with Massachusetts General Law, which requires clarity on where any auto repairs will take place. After ensuring all requirements were met and noting that the proposal still required approval from the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA), the board unanimously approved the license with specified contingencies.

The discussion then turned to a proposed solar energy project on Clem’s Way, a subject of considerable interest due to its potential financial implications for the town. Zachary Farcus of Rew Wild Renewables outlined the 5.5-megawatt project, which had already received necessary planning board and conservation commission approvals. He introduced the idea of a PILOT agreement, suggesting it would offer financial stability over the project’s 20-year lifespan by standardizing payments, benefitting both the town and developers.

The board expressed hesitancy, referencing past concerns about the depreciation of solar assets and the town’s limited revenue from solar projects. To address these concerns, there was a proposal to create a working group including selectmen, assessors, and town council members to further evaluate the PILOT agreement. The board considered the potential revenue of $50,000 annually, totaling $1.2 million over two decades, as a baseline for financial expectations. The importance of maintaining a solar revenue fund for capital projects was underscored, with an emphasis on ensuring long-term financial stability rather than short-term gains.

The board also focused on the town’s compliance with water system regulations, addressing its non-compliance status due to the lack of a primary water operator. They approved a contract with MP Water Systems, which would manage water operations on a month-to-month basis, providing necessary flexibility while the town stabilizes its operations.

In a personnel decision, the board announced the appointment of Gary Copper as the new police chief. The decision followed a collaborative negotiation process, and Copper’s base salary was set at $150,800. The board expressed confidence in Copper’s leadership and his ability to fulfill the responsibilities of the role. Copper, in turn, acknowledged the board’s support and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the police department.

The meeting concluded with the board addressing future agenda items, notably discussions concerning the Department of Public Works and upcoming proposals for trash and hauling services. A motion to adjourn the meeting was made and passed.