One of the pivotal topics was the acceptance of a trust fund for the North Blandford Cemetery. The select board was informed about the process of accepting a gift in trust for the cemetery’s perpetual care under Chapter 44, Section 53A of the Massachusetts General Laws. It was noted that the town could utilize only the interest earned from this fund, adhering to established practices for perpetual care arrangements. This decision did not require a special town meeting, as the donation had a designated purpose. The board expressed consensus and clarity on this point, recognizing the trust as a beneficial measure for the ongoing upkeep of the cemetery.

In another significant matter, the board deliberated on the enforcement of fines for a resident with multiple unregistered vehicles. Despite a previous notification sent in March 2023, the resident had not complied, prompting the board to consider imposing fines. These fines, according to local bylaws, would accumulate at a rate of $25 per week per vehicle if the issue remained unaddressed. The board discussed the necessity of ensuring proper notification, contemplating methods such as certified mail or direct delivery by a constable. It was stressed that the resident must be given clear information about the penalties and their right to appeal before any fines could be attached to their tax bill. The board agreed to involve the zoning enforcement officer for further action, given that the issue was not officially on the meeting agenda.

Additionally, the board discussed funding allocations for various municipal repairs, with particular attention to the highway department’s bathroom repairs. A proposal was made to transfer $14,000 from the new town hall utilities budget to cover these costs. This amount was described as a “barebones” solution, intended to address existing issues without redesigning the space. Due to the absence of a quorum in the finance committee, this matter required discussion at the meeting. The board acknowledged that a simple majority would suffice for this decision.

Further discussions explored the agenda items for the upcoming town meeting, including a temporary moratorium that was not read in full during this meeting. Concerns were raised about the potential need for a secret ballot, particularly if business owners might feel uncomfortable voting publicly on contentious issues. The board anticipated that explanations of the moratorium’s impact would be necessary, and awaited a recommendation from the planning board.

Other topics included the transfer of funds to settle invoices for BSER spring and the payment of a highway bill. There was a brief discussion regarding the voting requirements for bills of prior fiscal years at town meetings, with some clarification sought on the need for either a unanimous or a 9/10 vote.