The primary focus of the meeting was the proposed development of a 200-megawatt battery storage system near Blandford. Concerns were raised about the lack of clarity on the project’s implications for the town’s stability and environment. The board discussed the necessity of consulting with legal counsel and obtaining additional project documentation for review. A board member noted that the developers appeared to have bypassed the town’s input phase, opting instead to engage directly with state authorities, which raised issues of transparency and local governance.

Environmental concerns were a part of the discussion, particularly given the project’s proximity to wetlands and the town’s reservoir. The board emphasized the importance of conducting its own evaluation to ensure compliance with state regulations and to advocate for local interests. The potential expansion of the project footprint from 50 to 262 units was particularly alarming, with references made to a previous expansion effort by another company, which resulted in a larger-than-approved footprint.

The board acknowledged the need for collaboration with neighboring towns that are facing similar challenges, citing Westfield’s successful strategies in opposing large-scale battery storage initiatives. A town official from Exus, a firm involved in one of the battery systems, was present and expressed willingness to address concerns and clarify the project’s scope. The board emphasized the importance of public sentiment, urging a strong turnout at any future voting opportunities to influence the project’s trajectory.

In addition to the battery storage project, the board addressed several operational and staffing issues. The refunding of the water department for hydrant repairs was discussed, with two invoices amounting to $5,000 previously paid by the highway department. Ensuring proper tracking of these financial transactions was deemed necessary. The appointment of Steve Grounden as the interim water superintendent was confirmed, with plans to review and update the job description to reflect current requirements.

The highway department’s operations were reviewed, highlighting the successful completion of paving projects and the need to update job posting parameters to attract new hires following a recent resignation. Discussions also covered the importance of including pay ranges in job advertisements to attract qualified candidates.

Employee compensation and pay were another focal point, with references to neighboring towns’ pay scales being higher than Blandford’s current rates. The board discussed the need for updated pay scales to remain competitive. Additionally, an inquiry into holiday pay eligibility revealed complications, with one member confirming ineligibility based on their contract.

The board also addressed a petition from NSAR Electric Company seeking zoning exemptions for an infrastructure expansion project. Concerns were raised about the potential bypassing of local zoning laws and community impacts. The board agreed on the importance of inviting NSAR Electric representatives to explain the project’s details and gauge its implications for the town. A special town meeting was proposed to solicit resident feedback on the proposed expansions.

The resignation of Paul Martin from the Planning Board and the Board of Assessors was acknowledged, prompting the need to fill these appointed positions. The board expressed regret over his resignation and approved it effective June 30.

A proposal for a historic marker honoring Revolutionary War veteran Jethro Jones was presented and approved. The marker, funded by a grant from the Pomeroy Foundation, is intended to commemorate Jones, who currently lacks a gravestone. The proposed location for the marker is at the junction of Blair Road and Jethro Jones Road.

As the meeting concluded, logistical arrangements for communication with the highway department were confirmed to facilitate the installation of the historic marker. The meeting adjourned with various administrative tasks to follow.