A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to the proposal of expanding the Deerfield Select Board from three members to five. Proponents argued that this change could improve decision-making by bringing in more diverse perspectives, enhance resident representation, and maintain continuity as no more than two members would be elected each year. The discussion pointed out that with a five-member board, more informal discussions could occur without legal complications, as two members could communicate outside of formal meetings. Some members expressed hesitation about the budgetary impact and increased workload for staff, estimating that the expansion could increase the budget by $17,000 to $20,000.

The board considered whether to introduce the proposal at the upcoming special town meeting or wait for the annual town meeting, with some members noting that waiting could delay implementation by two election cycles. There was also a suggestion to conduct a survey to gauge public sentiment on the proposed board expansion. This survey would aim to engage Deerfield’s approximately 4,000 registered voters, although only about 1,500 to 1,600 are aware of the board’s activities. It was noted that the process would require changes to the town’s bylaws, and the importance of a deliberate approach was emphasized.

Infrastructure was another focal point, with residents voicing concerns over drainage issues. A significant portion of the meeting addressed the drainage situation behind the old Deerfield Country Store. Residents expressed frustration over the town’s perceived inaction regarding a silted drainage system exacerbated by recent construction. They requested clarity on town policies concerning maintenance on private property, as previous drainage interventions on Hillside Road had reportedly involved private land. The board clarified that the previous work was done under emergency conditions, which did not apply to current requests.

The conversation about drainage also included a proposal for a drainage swale to mitigate water accumulation threatening nearby structures. Historical land use and silt buildup were noted as contributing factors to the problem. The need for communication with landowners, particularly concerning the Mary Alice Hancock property, was highlighted. Suggestions were made to redirect water from higher ground to alleviate flooding concerns.

Community planning discussions included the potential use of 112 Amherst Road as a senior center. A walkthrough by EDM assessed necessary upgrades for public use, such as elevators and sprinkler systems. Regional outreach meetings with seniors across three towns were planned to gather input on their needs and preferences. Additionally, the finance committee sought to evaluate the feasibility of another building on Conway Street for the same purpose, securing funds for this assessment.

The board also addressed pedestrian infrastructure, emphasizing the need for sidewalk improvements to ensure safety and accessibility. While the idea of using $50,000 from free cash was floated, there was a preference for exploring grant funding options first. The importance of investing in pedestrian infrastructure was stressed, with preliminary discussions aimed at raising awareness among the Select Board and the Finance Committee.

Another topic was the renewal of the Upper Pioneer Valley Veterans Services Intermunicipal Agreement, set for July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028. The board aimed to finalize the agreement well in advance, with minimal changes expected to the towns’ assessments. The financial responsibility of Greenfield, bearing 56% of the costs, was noted.

License renewals and capital requests were also on the agenda. The board reviewed the draft special town meeting warrant, highlighting health insurance increases and funding sources for these costs. Capital requests included repairs for a loader and acquiring a sewer drain vacuum truck. The board expressed satisfaction with ongoing assessments and equipment repairs, noting the potential for extending the life of the loader.

Additionally, discussions included the Old Deerfield Wastewater Treatment Plant’s electrical upgrades, with a grant application for $350,000 proposed to cover part of the $926,000 project cost. The board acknowledged the town’s limited funds and viewed the grant as a crucial initial step.