A considerable portion of the meeting focused on noise complaints related to Treehouse, a local venue known for its concerts. Residents on North Main Street and Jackson Street had raised concerns about the noise levels during events. Board members conducted a site visit with the police and fire chiefs to assess the situation, where sound levels were informally measured between 80 and 85 decibels, below the allowable limit. However, the board acknowledged the need for more accurate, official sound measurements and discussed inviting Treehouse’s management to a future meeting to address these complaints.

Potential noise mitigation strategies were debated, including the installation of sound-dampening materials at the back of the concert stage and constructing a more soundproof stage. The board noted that sound travels differently based on factors like bass levels and humidity, complicating residents’ experiences of noise. A public forum was proposed to further discuss these issues, especially with the last outdoor concert of the season scheduled for September 14.

Another matter was the approval of a host community agreement with Sunny Days Inc., a marijuana production facility. This facility is the only one among three licensed applicants that has begun construction. Legal counsel has been reviewing and updating the agreement to align with new requirements from the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission. The board emphasized the importance of odor control and wastewater management in the agreement. The agreement was approved unanimously, subject to final legal amendments.

The board also approved changes to the mobile food service fees. Health Agent Valerie Bird proposed increasing the annual mobile food service fee to $200 and eliminating the individual inspection fees, effective January 1, 2025. This proposal was met with unanimous support. The board also discussed the efficiency of the new fee structure and its alignment with neighboring towns.

Infrastructure projects were another key topic. The board discussed progress at the site located on Still Water, where significant cleanup efforts have been ongoing, and the MVP action grant awarded for the Bloody Brook hydrologic and hydraulic study. This study, funded with over $170,000, aims to provide crucial information about water flow in the downtown area and inform decisions regarding culvert replacements and other infrastructure improvements. The board approved the grant agreement, authorizing the Town Administrator to execute the contract, with discussions about public education components targeted at local seniors.

Updates on other infrastructure projects included the construction at the Lery Lot, which is under budget and expected to wrap up by October 1, 2024. However, there may be delays in installing level three charging stations due to supply chain issues. Survey work on Elm Street as part of the complete streets initiative, and developments in the North Main and 5 and 10 intersection project, were also discussed. The latter has received approval from the MassDOT project review committee, allowing it to move forward.

In personnel matters, the board reviewed temporary pay adjustments and a stipend related to staffing changes within the administration and public works departments. Adjustments were discussed for an administrative staff member due to increased workload from the departure of the assistant Town Administrator and for Amy Han, an administrative assistant pursuing a certificate program in local government leadership and management. The board supported these adjustments, recognizing the additional responsibilities taken on by staff members and the benefits of professional development.

The board also touched upon a proposal from Weston and Samson Engineers to evaluate slope degradation on River Road. This $255,700 contract will be funded through state Chapter 90 money and aims to provide an assessment and recommendations for addressing the issue. The board preferred incorporating the proposal into a town contract to ensure protections, allowing for negotiations with Town Council to finalize the terms.

Additionally, the board discussed a significant topic regarding a proposed National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor, which could limit local input and decision-making. Eversource is advocating for a narrower corridor of 200 to 300 feet, contrasting with the proposed mile-wide corridor. The board emphasized the need for continued engagement with local legislators and the federal government regarding this process.

In closing, the board addressed routine matters, including public education initiatives, reviewing minutes from previous meetings, and discussing mail received, such as a notification from Eversource about vegetation surveying. The board also confirmed the date for the townwide tag sale and discussed preparations for early voting and a special town meeting.