Sound mitigation efforts at Treehouse Brewing were a primary topic, as the board aimed to reconcile the brewery’s entertainment license with community expectations. Treehouse’s representative, Sarah Majimmore, acknowledged the feedback and detailed efforts to address the noise complaints, particularly those related to subwoofer vibrations. Jason Rubin from Klondike Sound proposed using a dual cardioid array for speaker placement to create null points, which could help reduce vibrations near residences, especially around Hillside Jackson Road. This technical adjustment aimed at minimizing low-frequency disturbances, a concern for residents.

The board also examined the scheduling of concerts, emphasizing the importance of avoiding events on critical school nights, specifically August 26th and 27th. This consideration was part of a broader discussion about a family-friendly scheduling approach, acknowledging parental stress during the back-to-school period.

Further debate surrounded the number of concerts planned for the summer, with a proposal of up to 26 concerts over 13 weeks. The board anticipated fewer shows than the previous year due to financial considerations and community feedback. The concert series, although not a profit center for Treehouse, was described as a commitment to enhance community engagement and tourism.

Public comments underscored the urgency of the noise issue. A representative of 21 residents, Vincent Russo, articulated the need for enforceable noise restrictions, proposing solutions such as hiring independent acoustic engineers and implementing sound-absorbing barriers. Other residents echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the impact of noise on their quality of life and advocating for a balance between business success and community peace.

The board noted these concerns and expressed a commitment to collaborating with Treehouse Brewing to refine the brewery’s entertainment license proposal. The goal was to establish a sound management strategy that respects professional standards while addressing community noise concerns.

In addition to the Treehouse Brewing discussion, the board considered amendments to the intermunicipal agreement for the South County Senior Center, which aimed to modernize the 15-year-old agreement. Proposed changes included involving an active senior center member from each town in the board of oversight and adjusting cost-sharing based on the latest census data. This move sought to better reflect usage demographics, with Deerfield responsible for 54% of the budget.

Health matters were also on the agenda, with the board urging residents to remain vigilant against COVID-19 and influenza. The board reviewed sewer regulations set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and discussed a proposed fats, oils, and grease policy awaiting presentation for potential adoption.

As the meeting concluded, the board approved the renewal of various licenses for the 2026 licensing year, including those for local establishments like Berkshire Brewing Company. They also acknowledged community correspondence regarding Treehouse Brewing and reminded residents of an upcoming tax classification hearing, encouraging community participation.