The most notable topic of the meeting was the proposed conservation project involving a 67-acre property owned by Jack and Danielle Lockhead along Reeds Bridge Road. Facilitated by Elaine Petroy from the Franklin Land Trust, the project seeks to establish a conservation restriction that preserves the land’s agricultural value and ecological features while keeping it in private ownership to maintain its contribution to the tax base. The property is rich in agricultural resources and has significant river frontage, providing a habitat for rare species in wetlands and streams.

The conservation restriction’s language, currently under final review, includes provisions for managing floodplain areas, which could involve flood mitigation strategies like encouraging water into historic wetlands or slowing river flow. These measures are contingent upon permit approvals. The Lockheads also intend to install a dry hydrant at a designated location to address the fire department’s concerns about a shallower landing area used for water pumping.

Historical land ownership complexities were also discussed, with Jack Lockhead noting past practices that deeded sections of the river to the far bank, complicating modern property boundaries. This issue is pertinent to potential developments on neighboring properties. The board acknowledged past efforts to restore natural river courses and secure environmental study grants for the area.

Concerns about updated flood insurance rate maps, which have not been revised since 1980, were raised, but Petroy assured that conservation restrictions would not hinder obtaining necessary building permits or compliance with laws.

Parallel to the conservation dialogue, the selectboard addressed the need for senior housing, a topic driven by Conway’s aging demographics. The board emphasized prioritizing senior housing development, with one participant expressing a longstanding commitment to the issue. Previous proposals, like the South Meadow project, faced challenges such as high excavation costs for underground parking. The board explored the possibility of locating senior housing near the town center to reduce costs and effectively use available land.

Updating the town’s master plan emerged as another priority. The plan, described as outdated, requires significant revisions to address ongoing town issues, including water management in light of recent flooding events. Recruitment and succession planning were also identified as critical, with discussions on collaborating with neighboring towns to share resources and streamline processes.

In administrative matters, the selectboard discussed the Springfield Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) contract extension from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2030. The contract was approved unanimously after a brief discussion. A new policy on transfer station stickers was introduced, reducing the number to 52 annually from January 1, 2025. This change stems from a previous vote to halve the sticker price. The board debated eliminating cash payments at the transfer station, prompted by an auditor’s recommendation. Concerns about service accessibility for residents were voiced, with some advocating for a gradual transition to digital payments rather than an abrupt shift.

The board also considered town priorities set by the Franklin Regional Council of Governments (FRCOG), with community leach field support at the forefront, though its practicality was questioned. Other priorities included regionalized emergency services and senior housing, emphasizing the need for an updated community master plan.

The meeting concluded with routine governance functions, such as approving business licenses and discussing a hazard mitigation grant extension from MEMA. Updates from the Town Administrator included successful annual transfer station inspections and plans for repaving.