During the tax classification hearing, a detailed presentation by the Board of Assessors provided an in-depth analysis of the town’s current and proposed tax rates. The assessors recommended maintaining the split tax rate at 1.75%, which was designed to balance the tax burden between residential and commercial properties. This decision followed an assessment showing that residential property values increased by approximately 12%, while commercial real estate rose by 6%. The assessors argued that the increase in both sectors warranted no changes to the current tax shift, a recommendation that found unanimous support.

A significant part of the discussion involved the implications of maintaining the 1.75% tax rate shift. It was noted that this would result in an average tax increase of about 2.7% for residents. The assessors clarified that while the rate is among the highest allowable for commercial properties, it does not necessarily deter business growth, as evidenced by comparisons with neighboring towns like Rehoboth and Berkeley.

In other financial deliberations, the Board approved a motion to reallocate funds for the Pleasant Street Bridge project. This involved transferring $150,000 from the capital stabilization fund and an additional $73,000 from previous town meeting appropriations. This reallocation is important for completing the engineering phase of the bridge, part of a matching grant from the Community Preservation Fund. The transfer aims to secure a $2.75 million grant and includes a recent $100,000 contribution obtained through a state economic development bill.

The Board also discussed a hiring freeze set for fiscal year 2026, effective July 1, 2025, due to anticipated budgetary challenges. This hiring freeze would not impact positions within the fire or police departments or board appointments. Concerns were raised about critical positions that might be affected, including those for snow removal and apprenticeship programs, which would remain exempt from the freeze. Additionally, the Board addressed existing job postings, agreeing that future departmental head positions should be discussed before being filled.

On the community front, the meeting included an update on upcoming solar projects, with two installations approaching the planning phase, one involving battery storage. The tax implications of these projects were noted, with equipment taxed under personal property tax and land taxed as commercial real estate. The Board also highlighted the intention to revisit a $10,000 exemption for home-based businesses at the next town meeting, an article that had been tabled previously.

Personnel matters were addressed with the appointment of Susan Randazzo as a part-time public safety dispatcher. The police chief expressed confidence in her suitability, noting her 15-year residency in the town. This appointment ensures that the department maintains a balanced staffing level with four part-time dispatchers.

The Board reviewed two police department vehicles, deciding to transfer a 2005 Pontiac Grand Am to the town of Berkeley and send a 2009 Ford Crown Victoria to surplus for auction. The police chief confirmed that insurance rates for these vehicles would be covered collectively, and older vehicles used for details would be charged to the revolving fund.

Community announcements included vacancies on several committees, such as the Cable Television Committee and Conservation Commission, and promoted the Dighton Lights On event scheduled for November 30 at Old Town Hall, featuring music, food, and an appearance by Santa Claus. Additionally, the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs declared a drought in the Southeast region, with further information available on the town’s website.

In the final public input session, Kevin Smith, chair of the Parks and Recreation, shared positive developments regarding the community garden. He highlighted the involvement of local experts and the donation of apple and pear trees for the garden, with Scout Troop 45 assisting in planting. The Board agreed to formally accept the tree donations at the next meeting.