The application for a propane storage license was led by Brian Sora, Director of Operations for Deo Gas, to support construction at the site. The project primarily uses electric heating systems powered by heat pumps, but additional propane storage was deemed essential for temporary heating during winter, exceeding the typical 2,000-gallon limit that requires board approval. Residents raised safety concerns, particularly regarding potential leaks and propane’s known risks in low areas, such as basements, due to its weight and accumulation tendencies.

Multiple residents voiced their apprehensions, with Susan Tanner expressing community support but emphasizing the need for thorough discussions. Kenneth Kinross highlighted personal experiences with propane leaks and explosions. Sora addressed these issues by explaining federally certified safety measures and the inclusion of leak detection systems to monitor releases.

In response to resident Ed Duffin’s frustration over lack of communication, board members clarified that projects with less than 2,000 gallons of propane bypass board scrutiny, going straight to inspections. They acknowledged the necessity of propane in construction projects, noting alternatives like diesel pose higher emissions. Linda D, another concerned resident, critiqued the project’s pace and argued the developers should have incorporated heating solutions in initial plans. The board assured that propane is common in residential projects and pledged to ensure safety standards.

The board ultimately approved the license, set to expire on June 30, 2025, after verifying that safety protocols would be upheld, as confirmed by the fire chief. This decision aligns with Chelmsford’s procedural necessity to maintain accurate licensing records, which also led to the revocation of outdated flammable storage licenses for properties no longer using them.

Another major topic was the tax classification hearing, which was extended to allow further public input. The board discussed the current residential tax rate under a shift level of 1.20 and its implications for taxpayers. The average residential tax bill was projected to rise by $212, a 2.5% increase. Sam Chase, the Chair of the Board of Assessors, explained that the board would decide whether to maintain a unified tax rate or adopt a split rate, affecting residential and commercial properties differently. The presentation by the assessors highlighted the intricacies of tax classification, emphasizing fairness and transparency.

During the hearing, Mr. Harrington, a public attendee, advocated for re-evaluating the tax classification system that separates residential and commercial properties. He argued that businesses contribute to the town’s economy and should not bear additional tax burdens, calling for tax parity and cautioning against politically motivated tax decisions.

In addition to these discussions, the meeting featured updates on financial allocations for projects, notably the nearing completion of the Senior Center HVAC project and the planned refurbishments at McCarthy School. The board also addressed the proposed Chapter 40B application for the Riven Estates project, stressing the importance of community feedback and planning site visits.

Appointments to local committees were made, with Megan Riley joining the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee, and Dorian Dler appointed to the Center Village Master Plan Committee. The board unanimously approved these appointments.

The meeting concluded with an update from the North Chelmsford Water District on necessary preparations for the Middlesex Street Bridge repair, including a planned mock shutdown to prepare for the insertions of new isolation valves.