The meeting opened with an important discussion on the adoption of regulations focused on controlling fats, oils, and grease (FOG) discharges from food service establishments. The Select Board, acting as the Board of Health, highlighted the need for these regulations to prevent blockages in the sewer system, a problem observed by the chief wastewater operator and the Department of Public Works superintendent. These new regulations, effective February 1, 2026, require food service facilities to install and maintain pre-treatment systems, aligning with practices in other Massachusetts towns. The board emphasized education for local restaurants on proper grease trap maintenance during the first year of implementation. This measure is a response to ongoing issues with improper disposal of materials, such as “flushable wipes,” exacerbating sewer problems. The regulations received unanimous approval.

The meeting then shifted focus to property tax concerns, particularly from residents of the Sugarloaf Condominiums, a 55-plus community. Representatives expressed concerns over substantial tax increases, ranging from 35% to 40%, attributed to assessments based on 2025 sales. Community members voiced the urgency of addressing these inequities, fearing the long-term viability of their neighborhood. They pointed out that the community has experienced a 9% loss in ownership over five years, partly due to rising costs. While the board acknowledged these concerns, implementing new policies for senior property tax relief was noted as a complicated process that would require careful consideration to avoid negatively impacting the town’s financial health.

In addition to tax relief, the board addressed the adoption of an environmentally preferable procurement policy (EPP). The policy extends beyond the previous “buy recycled” requirement, encompassing a broader range of environmentally preferable products. The board swiftly approved the policy, directing the town administrator to implement it.

The board also ratified corrections to a lease agreement with Deerfield Renewables concerning a solar project on the landfill. This amendment addressed minor errors in survey measurements. Alongside this, the board discussed potential local technical assistance initiatives with the Franklin Regional Council of Governments (FURCOG), including exploring mutual aid data and improving tourism through branding municipal assets.

Community engagement was a key topic, with discussions on the establishment of a capital fund for SKMS to stabilize budget fluctuations and reduce the need for additional monetary requests for capital improvements. The board highlighted the significance of regionalization and the need to adapt SKMS’s founding language to reflect its current status and accommodate potential new member communities.

The board also addressed procedural matters, approving a one-day all-alcohol license for an upcoming Valentine’s event at Yankee Candle Village and an auction license for Douglas Auctioneers for 2026. Further discussions included the introduction of a proposed policy regarding citizen petition deadlines for annual town meetings.