In a detailed public hearing, Jackie Duffy from Eversource Energy presented NSTAR’s petition to install approximately five feet of electrical conduit on West Street. Duffy clarified that the installation would be on the shoulder of the road, not affecting the pavement. The petition faced no objections from the board or the public, and the board approved it unanimously. The chair took the opportunity to educate the audience on the importance of public participation in local governance, emphasizing that the board works for the town’s residents.

Following the NSTAR discussion, the board debated several administrative and community issues. A key point of interest was the review of the Town Administrator bylaw draft. The board considered granting the Town Administrator (TA) more authority, including the management of town properties and the execution of Cemetery Deeds. A memo suggested the TA should oversee Town Hall’s operational hours and manage town properties, although this raised concerns about the scope of such authority, especially regarding properties under other boards’ care, like conservation land. The board also discussed whether the TA should have the authority to appoint an interim replacement during a vacancy or disability, with some members suggesting this responsibility should rest with the Select Board.

In the realm of human resources, the board highlighted ongoing efforts to formalize HR practices. The Assistant Town Administrator presented key achievements, such as standardizing office schedules and implementing equitable pay structures. The board discussed the importance of confirming Town Hall hours, especially for compliance with tax bill mailings, and the need for consistency in office hours across departments to improve service delivery.

The board also tackled the Complete Streets program, with a representative named Matt presenting on the initiative’s goals to enhance roadway safety. Matt discussed the shift from traditional engineering approaches to a Vision Zero strategy, which focuses on preventing fatal and severe crashes. He detailed the process of prioritizing projects and securing federal funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The discussion revealed a need for clearer project prioritization and more comprehensive lists to secure funding effectively.

Additionally, the board reviewed upcoming infrastructure projects and maintenance tasks. Church Street repairs required more asphalt than initially planned, and an extension request for the Maple Street guardrail project was approved, backed by a secured grant. The board revisited the culvert assessment project, emphasizing the need for a long-term maintenance plan integrated into the GIS platform. Concerns were raised about the size of guardrails on Cur Street, with residents noting safety and aesthetic issues. The board planned further evaluations and updates on these projects.

The meeting also included updates on capital projects. The Gro Barn deconstruction project was nearing completion, and the Cory Auditorium lighting project was on schedule. Tree clearing for the Bant Davis dog park and contracts for the Central Burying Ground project were underway. The Library Building Committee shortlisted candidates for the owner’s project manager, and discussions for the police station and fire station renovations were progressing.

The board’s discussions demonstrated a collaborative tone, with members contributing to various topics and expressing support for the proposals presented. The emphasis was on transparency, thorough planning, and community engagement as the board navigated administrative and operational challenges.