The meeting commenced with a moment of silence for two community members who had passed away. The board then moved to a major agenda item, approving a three-year employment contract for acting Police Chief George Nichols. The contract stipulated a base salary of $126,000, additional education incentives, and a $5,000 annual reimbursement. Following the unanimous approval, Nichols was sworn in as police chief, accompanied by a pinning ceremony and congratulatory remarks.

Selectman Hull’s contributions to the community were recognized through a proclamation and certificate of recognition. Hull expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and emphasized the importance of community service. He also acknowledged the support and friendship of his colleagues during his tenure.

The board made announcements regarding community welfare, including an upcoming town food bank and an open waiting list for affordable housing. Furthermore, the Town Administrator reported on various upcoming engagements such as the Dighton Board of Assessors’ Spotlight moment and discussions on the Dighton Water District’s negotiations with Somerset and concerns over water availability for future developments. The Selectman’s report updated on fiscal year 2025’s budget process, flagging projected deficits and ongoing discussions with the School District and the State Legislative delegation.

A notable focus of the meeting was the encroachment license agreement with David and Michelle White concerning boulders on Williams Street. The board engaged in a debate about the agreement’s implications, including the boulders’ location and potential impact. Additionally, the meeting addressed the school department’s superintendent contract extension and budget negotiations. The challenges of Chapter 70 funding for small towns in Massachusetts and efforts to tackle these issues legislatively were also reviewed.

The board turned its attention to significant infrastructural undertakings, including the Pleasant Street Bridge replacement project, which requires collaboration with stakeholders and federal funding acquisition. The board was asked to approve the project eligibility notification acknowledgment form. In addition, a contract with RGB Architects for a fire station feasibility study was presented, with the board requested to authorize the $125,000 contract.

Furthermore, the reappointment of Stacy Ferry as the Inspector of Animals was discussed, alongside the fire department’s request for a kimtech fet transport deluxe f-23 and accessories, amounting to $747, to be funded from the fire department ambulance and fire gift account.

The Cable Committee’s request to declare surplus a Yamaha mixing board, a Mackie mixing board, and an Apple iMac 23 was approved, adding these items to the town’s auction list for October 2024. The Selectmen also renewed an FP2 license for Reese’s Auto Sales, confirming all requirements were met. Two payment warrants were proposed and approved.

During public input, a member of the public called for the reorganization of a committee to appoint a representative to the Bristol County Finance Advisory Board. Discussions also included possible water supply solutions for the town, such as drilling a new well. Lastly, the meeting concluded with talks on the potential debt exclusion for the Bristol Plymouth Regional Technical High School building project, uploading documents to the town website and YouTube, and the approval of meeting minutes and adjournment.