The primary focus of the meeting was the municipal electricity aggregation program, which aims to provide residents with an alternative option for their electricity supply. This initiative, termed the Dunstable Community Power program, would allow the town to negotiate bulk electricity purchasing for residents, similar to a “Costco for electricity,” as explained by consultant Paul. The program is designed to offer more stable pricing over longer periods compared to the six-month pricing adjustments currently made by National Grid. Although the town cannot guarantee savings due to the unpredictability of future National Grid pricing, Paul highlighted that most similar programs tend to offer savings.

The draft plan for the aggregation program has already been submitted to the state for approval. A public comment period has been opened, allowing residents to submit feedback through October 25th. Once approved, the plan would automatically enroll residents using National Grid’s basic service, with an option to opt-out. Residents will receive formal notifications about their enrollment and pricing 30 days in advance. The program offers two choices: a standard option with the lowest price and a green electricity option at a higher cost. This flexibility ensures residents can choose or exit the program without fees, maintaining their current arrangements with National Grid if preferred.

Detailed discussions were held on how the program would impact residents with existing private electricity contracts. Those individuals would not be automatically enrolled and might wish to wait until their contracts expire to join. It was also clarified that existing low-income discounts or budget billing arrangements would remain unchanged, and residents with solar panels would retain their current net metering credits or community solar credits regardless of their participation in the program.

Concerns about the program included potential costs associated with switching to the municipal program. Paul confirmed that there would be no fees for joining, leaving, or returning to National Grid.

The meeting then moved on to the contentious issue of the relocation of textile recycling bins. The Board of Health expressed dissatisfaction about being uninformed of the select board’s vote to relocate these bins, which needed to be moved within 48 hours due to complaints from residents. This led to a debate about the communication gap between the select board and the Board of Health. One member noted that they had been involved in discussions about the bins since January, but others contested that they were not adequately informed about the urgency of the move.

The bins’ relocation was linked to preparations for a development project requiring exploratory work on the site. Environmental concerns, such as turtle habitats, were also mentioned, emphasizing the project’s complexity. The conversation included frustrations over the bins’ current state, which saw vandalism and safety concerns due to caution tape and cones surrounding them. The board contemplated possible solutions, including moving the bins to different locations or eliminating them entirely, balancing their environmental benefits and financial contributions against resident complaints.

The sign policy discussion was another significant topic, with Brian Twin raising concerns about the regulations that seemingly suppress non-incumbent candidates’ ability to display political signs during election periods. He argued that the current policies create an imbalance, making it harder for newcomers to gain visibility. The debate touched on the ambiguity within the sign policy, particularly the definition of “private signs.” There was considerable discussion about whether the new policy constituted a change to zoning laws or merely a procedural adjustment. The board committed to revisiting the sign policy to ensure it was fair and transparent.

Additionally, the board approved a public drinking exemption for an upcoming Oktoberfest event on October 19, 2024, at L Field. This event, organized by the Parks and Recreation Committee, aims to foster community connections with German food, a DJ, and contests, expecting around 300 attendees. Approval was sought for alcohol consumption during the event, with specific conditions outlined for the liquor license.

Finally, the board discussed various local business initiatives, including a collaborative effort to promote rural tourism and economic development involving several Middlesex County towns. Concerns about funding and participation from other towns were highlighted, with suggestions to involve the Economic Development Committee to bridge gaps in representation.