The discussion centered on the fire station renovation goals, which are critical to ensuring the health and safety of firefighters, achieving gender parity, providing adequate truck storage, and enhancing workforce attraction and retention. The board evaluated the interconnectedness of these goals and the need for a facility to meet current and future requirements, including compliance with updated OSHA standards that incorporate NFPA guidelines into law. The project’s complexity was acknowledged, with the board emphasizing the importance of setting clear goals and budgets to ensure the effective implementation of the renovation.

The appointment of an OPM became a focal point, with the board agreeing that ARPA funds could be used for this purpose. Recognizing their lack of architectural expertise, board members underscored the need to trust the OPM to guide the project and to align the OPM’s objectives with the board’s vision. Discussions included the potential benefits of considering smaller firms for the OPM role and the necessity to attract the right candidates through a clear budget and project scope. The hiring process for an OPM was outlined, involving due diligence in selection and the involvement of the Town Administrator.

In addition to the fire station project, the board tackled the town’s road maintenance strategy. This included a two-year maintenance plan with an annual public hearing process to allow resident input on road conditions. The town engineer recommended investing $500,000 annually to cover full paving projects and other necessary applications. The board considered various funding sources, such as the Chapter 90 program and state grants, and discussed the need for repairs to the deteriorating Westford Road culvert.

The proposed road maintenance plan for the years 2024 and 2025 was reviewed, which prioritized projects based on the Department of Public Works’ analysis and resident complaints. The board engaged in a debate over financing strategies, including addressing a potential deficit if additional funding was not secured. The long-term funding strategy for road maintenance was also a point of contention, with the need to balance immediate needs against long-term financial planning.

Other topics of interest included the resignation of a bus driver, for which the board expressed gratitude, and discussions about public engagement methods for the upcoming town meeting. The board considered the use of various platforms, such as social media, posters, and direct delivery of warrant booklets to residents’ homes, to ensure adequate public awareness of the agenda.

The meeting also covered the town’s challenge in securing funds for maintenance and building projects. Further, the board acknowledged the contributions of the recreation department and police officers in a recent bike safety program and discussed the potential designation of June as Trails Month.

A discussion on the proposed septic system regulations by the Board of Health raised concerns about their impact on zoning bylaws and personal property rights, prompting a motion for a joint meeting with the planning board to discuss the matter further.