The meeting’s most pressing topic centered around the preservation of Devon Crest as affordable housing. Representatives from various organizations, including the Massachusetts Law Reform Institute and the Shocket Companies, presented their efforts to secure financial resources and negotiate with the property’s current owner, Brady Sullivan. The aim is to maintain the complex as an affordable housing option amidst increasing rental rates and no-fault evictions. A board member voiced concerns about the potential implications of using town funds for property acquisition, emphasizing the need for clarity in any motions of support.

The board’s support for the Ayer Housing Authority was also highlighted as essential for the success of these efforts. The board members generally agreed on the importance of the housing initiatives but stressed the need for careful wording in any official motions to avoid unintended financial commitments.

Attention then shifted to the potential closure of Nooba Valley Medical Center. The board expressed grave concerns about the hospital’s closure plan submitted by Steward to the Department of Public Health (DPH). The plan lacked details on transportation for patients and agreements with alternative service providers, raising alarms about the community’s emergency response capabilities. The board emphasized the increased ambulance roundtrip times and the potential strain on first responders. One member noted the urgency, stating, “If this thing closes, you better be prepared to shell out some money because the town is going to need it.” There was also frustration over the perceived inaction of state officials, with calls for continued public pressure to secure a qualified operator for the hospital.

The board also discussed the allocation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds towards community projects, particularly in parks and recreation. A spending plan proposal is set to be finalized by September 4th, with an emphasis on upgrading the meeting room’s audio-visual capabilities. This upgrade aims to enhance municipal functions, especially for hybrid meetings.

Staffing updates included the assistant Parks director position, which is pending funding approval at the September meeting. Preparations for the Fiscal Year 2026 budget are underway, with improvements to the ClearGov budgeting platform expected to facilitate a more transparent process.

The upcoming fall town meeting was another significant topic, with issues such as stormwater utility, MBTA zoning requirements, and an inclusionary housing bylaw on the agenda. The board plans to keep the warrant open until September 27 to consider additional items.

The meeting also provided updates on various community projects. The Sandy Pond Complete Streets project has completed paving, with remaining tasks involving striping and signage. The West Main Street Bridge project faces delays due to utility coordination challenges, particularly with Verizon. The board acknowledged the efforts of the town engineer and the DPW director in managing these complex projects.

Lastly, the board addressed routine appointments and community events. Katie Hampton was appointed to the Ayer Cultural Council, and the fourth annual Newton Street Festival was announced for October 5th. Discussions also included the upcoming special fall town meeting warrant and preliminary budget calendar adjustments for Fiscal Year 2026.