The most newsworthy item was the public hearing and subsequent approval of Verizon’s cable television license renewal. The hearing allowed for public comments and included a presentation from Verizon representative John Harrington. Harrington highlighted the collaboration between Verizon and the town during the licensing process and noted changes that reflect the evolving landscape of cable television. Executive Director of Chelmsford Telemedia Pete Padulla also contributed, expressing satisfaction with the renewal terms despite a slight reduction in per capita funding for capital needs.

A key point of interest was a board member’s inquiry regarding the process for outage credits, to which Harrington committed to providing a detailed follow-up. The board closed the public hearing and approved the renewal license effective November 1, 2024. An amendment was also proposed and accepted to include a statement affirming Verizon’s financial, legal, and technical abilities as part of the license filing with the state Department of Telecommunications and Cable.

Another topic was the proposed fire station construction project, slated for a ballot question on November 5, 2024. The proposed upgrades for Stations Three and Five were emphasized due to increased community demands and outdated facilities. The board underscored the need for these renovations, highlighting that the population has more than doubled since the stations were built, and call volumes have increased.

The board also tackled the sensitive issue of licensing fees for local businesses, particularly restaurants. Discussions revealed that the current fee structure had not seen significant adjustments in over two decades, with some fees last increased in 2000. Members debated the economic impact of proposed fee hikes, considering the financial recovery of local businesses post-downturns. A consensus emerged to delay the fee increases, setting an effective date of January 1, 2025, to give businesses adequate preparation time.

The proposed fee adjustments included raising the restaurant all-alcohol license from $2,500 to $3,000 and the beer and wine license from $1,200 to $1,500. Members acknowledged that while these increases might seem minor, they could pose a substantial burden from a business cost perspective. The board aimed to balance the town’s financial health with the economic realities faced by local businesses.

Additionally, the board discussed the allocation of approximately $780,000 in unallocated American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. Public Works Director Christine Clancy provided an update, noting that 96% of appropriated funds had been procured, with 71% invoiced and spent. The remaining funds were earmarked for various projects, including drainage improvements, a rain garden, and the replacement of aging vehicles at the Senior Center. Clancy emphasized the importance of timely fund allocation, with a deadline approaching in December 2024.

Another noteworthy update was the town accountant’s report on the fiscal 2024 budget. The town’s Enterprise funds also showed positive performance, with the sewer and stormwater funds reporting net profits. However, the PEG access or telemedia fund experienced a negative free cash situation, drawing $84,000 from its undesignated fund balance.

The board also reviewed the warrant for the upcoming fall town meeting scheduled for October 21st, which includes a 21-article list. Among these. The warrant also includes financial requests for cemetery improvements and roadway and sidewalk construction.

In the realm of community events, the board announced various initiatives, including the “Choose Chelmsford” job fair on October 2, 2024, and a search for snowplowing contractors for the upcoming winter season. Public service announcements highlighted the “Know Your Neighbor” socials promoted by Age Friendly Chelmsford and a proclamation for September 2024 as National Service Dog Month.

Finally, the board approved a one-day all-alcohol beverage license for St. Bans Armenian Church, scheduled for November 23, 2024, and discussed the logistics of implementing a new fee schedule for local businesses. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter Executive Session to consider real property acquisition strategies and potential litigation.