A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a debate over the suspension of Joseph Frado’s junk dealer license. The board members deliberated on the duration and terms of the suspension, ultimately reaching a consensus to suspend the license for 15 days. The decision was not without controversy, as Frado defended his compliance with town regulations, insisting that he had not generated noise beyond starting his truck and leaving in the morning. His assertions were met with skepticism by the board, which referenced previous statements suggesting non-compliance with operational hours. Amidst discussions about noise complaints from neighbors, a motion was proposed to impose a daily fine of $50 for any violations during the suspension period. The motion was amended from an initial incorrect fine amount and unanimously approved. Frado requested photographic evidence to support his compliance claims.

Another focal point of the meeting was an update from Pat, a member of the historic preservation commission, who provided detailed insights into ongoing and completed projects. The commission has undertaken surveys of historic properties with funding from the Community Preservation Committee and a state grant. Notably, properties in the Brick Area, Lower Four Corners, and the South Dighton District were recommended for National Register eligibility. The Mount Hope Finishing Company area was another focus, with updated surveys covering more than 200 structures. The commission contracted Stacy Spies to prepare a nomination for the Mount Hope area’s inclusion in the National Register, contingent on securing necessary funding. Pat emphasized that National Register designation serves as an honorary acknowledgment that encourages preservation without imposing restrictions on property owners. She advocated for future discussions about establishing local historic districts, which could impose regulations.

In addition, the Board of Selectmen reviewed the Brook Street solar payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) agreement with Grasshopper. A tax consultant assessed the value of personal property on the solar site at $823,000. The board emphasized the agreement’s role in providing a stable, predictable tax revenue stream for the town over a 20-year term, even as they awaited written acceptance from Grasshopper. The agreement was approved unanimously.

The meeting also addressed the appointment of members to the Agricultural Commission, highlighting candidates like Laura Smith and Joanne, who both have extensive farming backgrounds. Their interviews were scheduled for early December. Concerns about transparency in the nomination process were raised by existing commission members, reflecting underlying tensions.

Further discussions included the approval of a 20-year PILOT agreement, ratifications of memoranda of understanding with town officials, and the appointment of a liaison to the local highway department. The board also reviewed and approved the 2024-2025 snowplow contract, maintaining rates from the previous year and addressing vendor shortages.

The board expressed gratitude to David Marvel for his service on the historical commission following his resignation and discussed potential grant opportunities for the Main Street drainage project. A failed debt exclusion at a recent state election was noted, with one selectman suggesting a hiring freeze to address fiscal challenges.