A significant portion of the meeting centered around discussions on House Bill 886 and Senate Bill 647, which aim to establish a paint recycling program across Massachusetts. The proposed legislation seeks to create a system where residents can return unused paint to retailers, thereby simplifying disposal processes and potentially reducing town expenses related to hazardous waste collection. The Chelmsford Recycling Committee advocated for the board to send a letter of support for these bills, highlighting the convenience and cost-effectiveness for residents. The program would impose a fee of approximately 75 to 125 cents per gallon of paint, collected at the point of sale, to fund the initiative. This fee structure is similar to existing programs in other New England states.

The board’s discussion revealed concerns about the voluntary nature of the program for retailers, with larger retailers potentially opting out. Despite this, the fee would apply universally to consumers, regardless of retailer participation. It was noted that smaller retailers are generally more engaged with such programs. The board raised questions about the logistics of paint collection and disposal, particularly for contractors and retailers with limited storage capacity. Paint Care, the nonprofit managing the program, reportedly offers prompt service for collecting paint from participating retailers.

Despite some skepticism about the necessity of a state-mandated program, the board ultimately supported the initiative, acknowledging its potential to alleviate the town’s hazardous waste disposal costs. A motion to endorse the recycling bills passed.

The meeting also addressed a land donation offer from a property owner looking to offload land at 60 to 66 Milk Street, assessed at $134,000. The board expressed concerns about the property’s wet condition and limited utility, primarily as ancillary parking for a nearby mill. Potential contamination issues and limited benefit to the town led to a consensus to decline the offer. A motion to formally reject the donation was made and passed, with members suggesting the owner consider selling the land to the mill owner instead.

In addition to these discussions, the board was informed of a substantial increase in Chapter 90 funding, with the state allocating $300 million for road construction. Chelmsford is set to receive $2,237,492, a welcome boost in light of rising construction costs, although it was acknowledged that this amount does not fully address statewide infrastructure demands.

The board also deliberated on committee appointments, approving Janine Madden to the Age-Friendly Implementation Committee and Nicholas Hood and Florence Vigant to the Parade Committee. Additionally, a vacancy on the housing authority was highlighted, with Charice Latimore expressing interest but yet to submit an application. The board agreed to promote the vacancy further, allowing more time for interest and applications.

Finally, the board reviewed several zoning and financial articles for the upcoming town meeting, including a zoning change proposed by the planning board and articles related to community infrastructure projects. A proposed article on banning second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides was also discussed.