The urgency of addressing the town’s infrastructure was apparent during the meeting. The condition of River Road received attention, as the board considered conducting borings and a site survey to formulate a plan for needed repairs.

In addition, the board approved a change order for the Old Deerfield sewer rehabilitation project, which involves sleeving and replacing sections of the sewer line, with Deerfield Academy funding the construction costs. The project’s completion is timed to coincide with the students’ return to the academy. Concerns about a pipe issue at the Deerfield sewer treatment plant were also raised during the public comment session, emphasizing the board’s ongoing engagement with matters concerning public utilities.

Another community concern addressed was the proposed maintenance of a farm swale along Eastern Avenue, which would restore water movement. The board discussed issues related to access, funding, and timing of the work.

The board set October 7 as the date for a special town meeting, with the town clerk’s availability as a deciding factor. The importance of having free cash certified to fund any necessary items was underscored, and the board made a motion to open the warrant, with a proposed closing date of August 30, 2024.

Public safety was also a priority, with the board discussing the need for the Franklin Regional Council of Governments to replace radios to align with the state’s interoperable system. Updates on the senior center feasibility study, the Lery Lot construction, and the 1888 building project were given.

The meeting explored the need to develop a job description for the accountant position and mentioned the Personnel Board’s involvement in the appointment process.

Regarding public health and safety, the board engaged in a hearing related to a Deerfield Spirit Shop’s violation of alcohol sale regulations, following a compliance check that revealed a sale to an underage individual. The board considered employee training measures and agreed on a suspension of operations for two business days, which would be held in abeyance for one year contingent on no further violations.

Environmental health concerns were also present, with a resident voicing issues about the burial of a horse adjacent to their property and the potential biohazard risk, prompting the board to mention a forthcoming public hearing on the matter.

In administrative matters, the board discussed the review of resumes and the scheduling of interviews for the Board of Health agent position. There was also talk of extending the appointment of Valerie Bird as the Deerfield Board of Health agent until a permanent replacement is found.