The most notable portion of the meeting involved discussions around Treehouse Brewing Company’s outdoor concert program. Following extensive community feedback and consultations with Treehouse and public safety officials, the board reviewed proposed conditions for the entertainment license. Key elements included concert end times, blackout dates, and sound mitigation strategies aimed at balancing the business’s operating needs with community welfare. A draft circulated among stakeholders suggested blackout dates to avoid school conflicts and set earlier stop times for concerts in September.

Sound management was a primary concern, with specific discussions about a cardioid subwoofer array and proposals to orient the stage toward less populated areas to control noise directionality. A member of the public, Matt Tuttle, highlighted past issues with honoring sound commitments and suggested ongoing adjustments to management practices based on resident feedback. The board agreed on the necessity for continuous community engagement and adaptation in sound management practices. A proposal for a mandatory emergency action plan for events exceeding 600 attendees further emphasized prioritizing safety and effective community communication.

The board also examined the practicality of reviewing talent booking contracts to ensure bands are informed about sound mitigation requirements, though this was debated in terms of necessity. A new sound array is under development to tackle bass reverberations, and a sound study will be conducted post-implementation to assess effectiveness.

Turning to fiscal matters, the board discussed the cost of living adjustments for the town’s employees. While a member suggested aligning COLAs with the Consumer Price Index at 2.8%, or the projected Northeast index of 3%, another suggested starting at 2% to allow for flexibility amid fiscal uncertainties. The board emphasized transparency and prudence in budget planning, particularly given the unpredictable economic landscape.

Attention shifted to the town’s health insurance, highlighting concerns about the Hampshire County Group Insurance Trust’s financial instability. With reserves nearly depleted, the board explored alternatives and potential rate increases to sustain employee health coverage.

The meeting also touched on budget planning strategies, considering the adoption of zero-based budgeting to enhance resource management. This approach would require departments to justify expenses from the ground up, potentially leading to more efficient financial planning. The board also approved the town’s participation in the Franklin Regional Council of Governments’ collective bidding process for highway materials, which is expected to optimize purchasing power.