20:15The issue of budget cuts emerged as a central focus of the meeting. The commission faced a directive from the Board of Selectmen to reduce their budget by at least 2.5%. In response, members presented a proposal that entailed a 10.67% reduction, amounting to $7,420.61, lowering the budget from $69,419.61 to $62,900.71. This significant cut was driven by a desire to bolster the commission’s credibility when advocating for a salary increase for the conservation agent. The reduction was framed as an effort to align with town directives while preserving essential operational funding.

The conversation about the conservation agent’s salary was marked by a consensus on the need for an adjustment. The agent’s salary had been level funded from the previous year, prompting commission members to propose a salary increase to bring it in line with raises awarded to other town employees. A suggestion was made to request a salary adjustment to approximately $56,000 to $57,000, equating to a 2.5% increase. Members decided to draft a letter to the Finance Committee and the Board of Selectmen, detailing the agent’s contributions and dedication, to support their case for the raise. The commission acknowledged that reallocating some of the proposed budget cuts towards personnel could facilitate this salary adjustment.

37:51In addition to budgetary matters, the commission touched on recent drought conditions in the area, which had been downgraded from level three to level one. Members expressed cautious optimism, citing forecasts predicting increased precipitation in the coming months. They also highlighted a website called “raindrop,” which provides localized rainfall data, as a valuable resource for local farmers to assess irrigation needs.

The meeting also included updates on stormwater pollution prevention measures and inspections at various sites. On Elm Street, inspections revealed erosion issues that had since been corrected. Additionally, a proposed redevelopment opportunity at Spring Street garnered interest. A developer expressed plans to construct approximately 300 residence units for seniors, along with retail and office space, addressing stormwater management concerns. The site, currently zoned for industrial use, would require rezoning for this mixed-use development. Commission members noted the potential benefits, such as increased recreational access to the river for activities like kayaking and fishing.

The commission discussed potential opposition to the Spring Street project, particularly related to traffic and noise, but overall, members viewed the redevelopment as beneficial given the current underutilization of the property. They acknowledged the need for further communication and documentation to advance the proposal and ensure community support.

0:28At 2371 County Street, cleanup efforts and temporary access road construction were underway, albeit delayed due to the client’s personal circumstances. The commission agreed on the necessity of specialized equipment and operators to proceed with the project. At 2470 Pleasant Street, a follow-up was planned with the property owner regarding previous violations, emphasizing the importance of maintaining positive communication.

20:15Additionally, the commission noted a backlog in meeting minutes due to a recent vacancy in the clerk position, which had since been filled by Kendra Early, pending official appointment by the selectmen. The commission unanimously approved her hiring.