Zamaro and Chatfield presented the board with a resolution to join a coalition of municipalities in opposition to the expansion, highlighting the urgency of combating climate change. They provided data on rising global temperatures and ocean temperatures, drawing attention to the environmental impact of such an expansion. The board engaged in a discussion about the environmental and economic effects of the expansion, considering the local and global repercussions.

A representative highlighted the potential impact of increased emissions from private jet operations at the airport, stressing that they could negate the benefits of existing solar panel installations statewide. The absence of regulatory measures for the aviation sector in statewide emissions reduction goals was a particular point of concern. The board discussed the importance of regional collaboration to address the issue, with suggestions to join a municipal campaign that aims to mitigate the environmental consequences of the airport’s expansion.

Additionally, the board deliberated on the issue of projected activity levels at Hanscom Field. A member raised doubts about the accuracy of projections in a report by Massport. The board weighed the potential environmental benefits of sustainable aviation fuel against the likelihood of increased emissions. There was also consideration of the town’s climate goals and the fairness of enduring heightened emissions to reduce pressure on other airports.

Furthermore, the board considered joining other towns to make a collective statement against the expansion, debating their potential influence in the decision-making process. This highlighted the divergent views on the expansion’s compatibility with climate and equity goals and the board’s role in influencing the outcome.

Another topic discussed was the deconstruction and removal of the Greeno Barn. The board scrutinized a bid from Select Demo for the project, which was just under the $200,000 budget allocated. Members of the Historical Society and the Sustainability Committee voiced support for the conservation efforts, and the board discussed the procurement process’s legal constraints. Opinions varied on how much oversight the town could exert, with some members advocating for more explicit contract terms to ensure the barn’s preservation and relocation.

The meeting also covered a range of other important town matters. The board voted to appoint Joseph Toppel as Constable and Brian Murphy to the Land Stewardship Committee. Resignations from the Environmental Sustainability Committee and the Department of Public Works were accepted, with the board recognizing the service of David Beter and Gregory Janes. A bequest of $5,195 from the estate of Frederick Arthur Blacker to the Carlisle Council on Aging and Human Services was gratefully received.

A vacancy on the Board of Health prompted a debate about the appointment process and the need for a more systematic and transparent approach. The board examined advertising vacancies more broadly and the importance of interviews in the selection process. The Town Administrator suggested that a uniform procedure be established for all committee appointments to ensure transparency and inclusiveness.

The board conducted a technical review of the meeting process, addressing audio issues and discussing the need for hybrid meetings to enhance transparency. Public comments from Debbie Bentley supported this call for openness and the availability of recordings to inform community members and potential volunteers.

The board also addressed logistical and administrative matters, including the appointment of a new person for town financial approvals, the success of the recent town meeting, and the planning of upcoming projects. An emergency repair for Westford Street was approved, and discussions were held on the police station and fire station projects, including the appointment of Owner’s Project Managers.