The most noteworthy announcement was the receipt of the $1.9 million grant from the office of economic development. The grant is allocated for upgrading the water pump station on Chestnut Street, a infrastructure project that promises to address longstanding water quality concerns. The town manager noted the collaborative effort behind securing the grant, emphasizing the extensive work involved in the application process. Additionally, the town was awarded a $21,000 grant from the Department of Energy Resources to enhance the weatherization and HVAC systems at the Department of Public Works service building. These financial boosts are expected to enhance the town’s infrastructure capabilities.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on the proposed zoning bylaw amendments for ground-mounted photovoltaic installations. The council deliberated on various definitions and exemptions, including “parking canopy” installations and adjustments to existing definitions related to roof-mounted installations. The amendments seek to exempt small-scale ground-mounted solar installations from the site plan review requirement, a move intended to streamline and encourage solar energy adoption. The council debated whether the current reading of the amendments should be classified as a first or second reading, given the substantive changes made since the initial proposal. Ultimately, a consensus was reached to treat it as a first reading.

The council also tackled tax classification for fiscal year 2025, with representatives from the Board of Assessors presenting options for adjusting the tax rate. A notable consideration was the potential shift to a split tax rate, which could reduce residential property taxes while increasing the burden on commercial properties. The implications of such a shift were discussed in detail, with specific scenarios illustrating potential tax reductions for single-family homes and increases for commercial properties. The council ultimately decided to maintain a single tax rate without exemptions, a decision made to balance the tax burden equitably across residential and commercial sectors.

Financial management, particularly the use of free cash, was another focal point of the meeting. The council debated the allocation of funds for various capital projects, including the acquisition of 382 North Main Street. The strategy involved utilizing remaining American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds alongside free cash to minimize borrowing costs. Discussions highlighted the importance of maintaining healthy reserves to support ongoing projects like the high school construction, while also considering the impact on bond ratings.

Additionally, the council approved several grants, including a Community One-Stop for Growth Mass Works infrastructure grant and an Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant. The council also deliberated on updates to the pavement management program, approving a $31,800 transfer from free cash to refresh the outdated 2016 data. This update aims to provide accurate information for future road improvement planning.

In other business, the council addressed proposed bylaw amendments for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and authorized the town manager to execute a collective bargaining agreement with the police department. The meeting concluded with discussions on the establishment of a Bylaw Review Committee, tasked with overseeing periodic reviews of the town’s bylaws as mandated by the town charter.