The proposal to introduce a food tax was one of the central topics of the meeting. This tax, set to add up to 0.75% to the existing 6.25% state-mandated rate on restaurant meals, is expected to generate approximately $7,500 in additional revenue. The move aims to support economic growth and attract more food businesses to Dunstable, providing a financial boost while attempting to offset the tax burden on residents. The board discussed the experiences of neighboring towns that have adopted similar measures, noting that Dunstable is one of 267 towns in Massachusetts without such a tax. The anticipated revenue, though modest, is seen as a positive initial step in enhancing local financial health and enticing new restaurants before their arrival to avoid imposing the tax retroactively. Concerns were raised about the allocation of funds generated by the tax, with questions about whether the revenue would be dedicated to specific projects or integrated into the general fund. There was also uncertainty about the process of receiving funds back from the state and how they would appear in local accounts. Despite these concerns, the primary objective remains to alleviate the tax burden on residents while encouraging economic development.

Another agenda item involved changing the town’s life insurance provider from Boston Mutual to Mutual of Omaha, increasing coverage from $2,000 to $10,000 per employee. This change affects 12 town employees and is projected to cost the town approximately $480. The board unanimously approved this transition, seeing it as a cost-effective improvement in employee benefits. There was a brief discussion regarding the need for physical evaluations, which typically are not required for basic life insurance, especially at lower coverage levels.

The board also addressed the town’s budget, which reflects a 5.81% overall increase for the upcoming year, with schools seeing a 6.15% rise. Budget discussions highlighted reductions across several departments, including a $147,000 cut in public safety and a substantial $250,000 decrease in public works. These reductions are part of efforts to manage budget constraints, though they leave little flexibility for unexpected expenses. The board acknowledged the tight budget and discussed potential strategies to manage deficits, including relying on free cash appropriations or inter-department transfers.

The meeting also covered the approval of a contract with Niche Engineering for the town center community path feasibility study and design, following a competitive selection process. The board accepted the contract without opposition. Additionally, the library HVAC replacement project was discussed, with a contract approved for the installation of heat pumps at the library, contingent upon National Grid’s approval of on-bill repayment. The project, estimated at $235,000, involves various funding sources, including a $75,000 state budget earmark and a $45,000 capital allocation expected to be approved at the town meeting.

Discussions also touched on the Middlesex County Interagency Mutual Aid Agreement, an annual arrangement allowing mutual aid among police departments. The board emphasized that this agreement is separate from the Northeast Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council and does not conflict with it.

Other topics included the establishment of a 476 Main Street ad hoc committee to review a property significant to the town center, and the approval of a sick leave bank policy for employees. Both measures were approved unanimously.