The meeting began with the introduction of Raymond Miscavage, proposed as a new CDL driver for the highway department. The board members expressed familiarity with Miscavage and unanimously voted to hire him, pending the completion of his pre-employment physical. The need for a specialized mower for over-the-fence operations was noted, though it was clarified that this equipment would not be immediately required.

Attention then turned to environmental matters, specifically the management of invasive species in Bigalow Meadow. The board discussed a proposal to alter current mowing practices, emphasizing a shift to spring mowing to support pollinators and improve long-term ecological health. This plan was endorsed by a subject matter expert, and the board approved a motion to document this decision for future reference. Community involvement was encouraged, with suggestions to engage local schools in educational activities about invasive plants, potentially fostering greater community participation in ecological efforts.

The board also addressed a contract with RTE Energy Solutions for a street light study. The focus of the contract would be to identify street lights that could be safely decommissioned, rather than simply replacing all existing lights. The board approved the motion to proceed with the contract, with the understanding that this was just the initial phase. A public forum to discuss the study’s results was anticipated to occur in the following spring, with the sustainability committee potentially securing Green Communities grants for subsequent actions.

In addition to environmental topics, the board discussed the senior and veteran tax work-off program parameters. They decided to set the age limit for participants at 65 and established income thresholds based on Franklin County’s HUD metro area recommendations for very low-income limits. The asset limits were set at $40,000 for singles and $55,000 for married couples, excluding the primary residence and one vehicle from asset calculations. A lottery system would be used to select qualified applicants, balancing inclusivity and practicality in matching applicants’ skills with available tasks.

Further discussions highlighted community initiatives, such as the support for the Conway swimming pool’s grant application to T-Mobile’s Hometown Grant initiative. This grant aimed to refurbish the pool’s platform and make other enhancements. The board unanimously approved drafting a letter of support for the grant application.

Concerns were raised about the future of the Festival of the Hills committee, following the resignation of its treasurer and secretary. With only two members remaining, the board discussed recruiting efforts to attract new members, particularly among younger residents, to ensure the festival’s continuity. The potential compliance issues of a nearby accessory dwelling unit (ADU) were also addressed, given its unique status as a mobile unit on wheels. The building inspector was informed, and further examination of zoning laws was deemed necessary to preempt similar issues in the future.