The most pressing topic was the deliberation on the town’s tax classification for the upcoming fiscal year. Board members faced the challenge of balancing residential and commercial tax burdens amidst fluctuating property values. A proposed uniform tax rate threatened to impose an estimated 18% increase in residential taxes, translating to about $1,300 per household, while offering a 30% reduction for businesses. This scenario was deemed unacceptable, prompting a nuanced discussion on possible tax rates. A rate of 1.486 was ultimately proposed, which would result in a more modest increase of $176.86 for single-family homes and $169.03 for condominiums. The motion for this rate passed with a vote of 3-1-1.

In conjunction with tax discussions, the board addressed the ongoing development concerns raised by residents. The proposed eight-unit condominium development at 180 through 182 Pine Street and Silven Street sparked anxiety over potential environmental and traffic impacts. The legacy of the former Sylvania lighting plant, which left capped soil on the site, heightened these concerns. Residents feared that construction could disturb the soil, affecting groundwater and air quality. The board was urged to mandate an environmental study before the development proceeds, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of the site’s historical promises and current environmental risks.

Traffic safety emerged as another issue, particularly at the Hyde and Pine Street intersection. Residents reported dangerous conditions due to speeding and illegal parking, exacerbated by vehicles from a nearby condominium complex. Despite previous appeals to the Traffic Advisory Board, residents felt their concerns had not been adequately addressed. Suggestions included lowering speed limits and enhancing pedestrian safety, especially given the area’s lack of sidewalks and the presence of children walking to school.

The meeting also highlighted community dissatisfaction with the notification process for new developments. Many residents felt inadequately informed about projects affecting their neighborhoods. The suggestion was made to improve communication strategies, such as utilizing social media and multiple notifications to ensure timely updates for residents.

Another portion of the meeting was devoted to managing public discourse and decorum during board meetings. Concerns were raised about the use of profanity and lengthy comments during public sessions, prompting a proposal to limit speaker time to two minutes to maintain order and ensure equitable participation. The importance of establishing clear guidelines for public comments was underscored, with a call for the town’s lawyer to develop educational materials to protect citizen rights and meeting decorum.

The board also reviewed and approved applications for a one-day wine and malt license and a first-time block party. The block party, intended to celebrate Christmas lights in the Fowler Street neighborhood, aimed to foster community spirit while raising funds for Boston Children’s Hospital. The board expressed enthusiasm for these initiatives, recognizing their role in enhancing community engagement.

In a gesture of appreciation, the board acknowledged the graduation of the 2024 Citizens Academy class. The program, now in its fifth year, offers participants an overview of the town’s municipal operations. Through interactions with various departments, cadets gained valuable insights into local governance, culminating in a celebratory invitation to the high school musical, “Mean Girls.”

The meeting concluded with updates on community events and initiatives, including the annual menorah lighting and Martin Luther King celebrations. The board also discussed the hiring process for a new town manager.