The meeting’s primary focus was the proposed Chapter 40B affordable housing project on North Road and Crosby Lane. The applicant was notably absent, but the board proceeded to review departmental comments and opened the floor for public input. Concerns were abundant from various town departments, including the Department of Public Works (DPW), the fire department, and the police department. The DPW highlighted that Crosby Lane is a Scenic Road with restrictions and called for a comprehensive site plan review, stormwater management strategies, and utility clarifications. They also noted a five-year moratorium on road disturbances, complicating project access.

The fire department echoed the need for thorough evaluations, focusing on emergency vehicle access and adequate water flow for hydrants. They stressed the importance of a properly monitored sprinkler system. The police department raised alarms about the narrow roadway width, which they deemed insufficient for two-way traffic, potentially causing significant traffic backups and safety issues. The Board of Health added concerns regarding the onsite septic system’s compliance with Title 5 regulations and necessary information on dumpster placements.

Board members voiced significant reservations, with one noting, “there’s a lot of concerns by a lot of our various departments in town,” particularly emphasizing emergency access and public safety. Another member, after visiting the site, described it as “very tight,” questioning the feasibility of the proposed building’s size and density relative to the neighborhood’s character. The inconsistency in submitted documentation, such as outdated unit numbers, further complicated the review process. The board concluded that more detailed information was needed from the applicant, whose absence left many questions unanswered.

In addition to departmental concerns, residents expressed their opposition to the project. Douglas Howler, representing the abutters, highlighted the Greenwoods’ opposition to increasing the development from ten to sixteen units. He criticized perceived inconsistencies in the town’s development policies, particularly regarding environmental assessments, and urged the Board to address potential environmental contamination risks like PFAS.

Other residents echoed these concerns, emphasizing the project’s potential to overcrowd a historically significant and narrow road, thereby compromising safety and the neighborhood’s character. The board acknowledged these concerns and agreed that the final decision would rest with the Board of Appeals, highlighting the necessity for a review of the project’s impact on public safety, emergency access, and local regulations.

The meeting also addressed a one-day beer and wine license for an event at St. John Evangelist Church Hall. George Nalan, the applicant, confirmed his certification, and the board unanimously approved the license for September 15, 2024. Following this, the Board received an update on a pocket license from Kissa Incorporated, noting the resolution of previous administrative issues and the payment of a $60,000 building permit fee.

A public hearing continued discussions on a National Grid pole petition on Princeton Street. National Grid representatives explained the necessity of installing a new midspan pole for improved power reliability. Concerns about the future of existing poles were raised, but the contractor clarified that while reconductoring could theoretically remove an existing pole, it was not anticipated. The board unanimously voted to close the public hearing.

Another noteworthy topic was the debate over solar-powered lighting at a local dog park. The Dog Park Advisory Committee (DPAC) had initially rejected the proposal due to concerns about attracting non-residents, increasing light pollution, and setting a precedent for other town properties. The presenter argued for lighting, citing national trends and the benefits of fixed operational hours for safety. However, skepticism remained among board members and committee representatives, emphasizing the need for further collaboration and clearer communication.

Additionally, the board reviewed updates on the allocation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. Approximately 95% of the $10.6 million allocated had been appropriated, with 69% invoiced and spent. The focus was on ensuring all funds were utilized by December 2026 to avoid forfeiture. Projects included drainage system reconstruction, a rain garden for stormwater management, and various infrastructure needs like vehicle replacements and HVAC assessments.

The meeting also discussed the development of electric vehicle charging stations in partnership with National Grid and East Coast Renewable Energy. New installations at multiple locations were announced, with a project value of $2.24 million requiring no financial input from the town. Existing stations would remain operational, with some adjustments considered.

Lastly, the board addressed Article 18, concerning partial roof replacement and schematic design for South Row School, with the Massachusetts School Building Authority’s (MSBA) accelerated repair program potentially covering more than half the estimated $100,000 design cost. The project also included additional expenses for solar panel removal and reinstallation, anticipated to be included in state funding reimbursement.