16:33A significant part of the meeting focused on a citizen petition related to a workplace violence policy, which raised concerns about the potential presence of firearms in administrative buildings. An attorney explained the legal implications, noting that the enactment of the petition could allow individuals to carry firearms into municipal spaces, including schools. The attorney stressed the complexities involved, particularly due to ambiguous definitions of “administrative buildings.” The board debated the broader implications, considering the balance between Second Amendment rights and public safety. Historical instances of firearms at town meetings were mentioned, emphasizing the contentious nature of legal regulations surrounding firearms. The attorney highlighted the evolving legal landscape, referencing a notable New York case that influenced Massachusetts’ regulatory approach. A consensus emerged on the need for a clear policy should the petition pass.

0:00The board also grappled with two significant building code appeals. The first involved a dispute over a proposed structure on Guog Road, where concerns about water runoff and fire hazards prompted legal intervention. Approximately 20 residents expressed their apprehensions. The second appeal concerned a longstanding issue on Brille Road, a contracting yard for scrap materials. Despite efforts to resolve the issue, legal counsel was sought due to potential property value impacts. The owners were given deadlines for property cleanup, with the town appealing to the state level for further resolution.

In addition, the board discussed the waiver of fees for residential accessible ramps. A proposal to waive the $75 fee aimed at avoiding safety improvement hindrances sparked a debate. Board members were surprised by the fee’s existence, leading to a discussion on discretionary waivers and potential misuse. The board agreed to draft a formal policy for uniform application.

The meeting also covered the awarding of a contract for highway barn paving improvements. Partlow and Sons Paving’s low bid was recommended and unanimously approved. The board addressed regular municipal operations, including the annual aerial mosquito spraying by Bristol County Mosquito Control, with a continuation vote from April to October 2025.

Attention shifted to the fiscal year 2025 snow removal account, where the board faced budgetary challenges. Already $20,000 over budget, the unpredictability of snow removal costs was highlighted as a concern.

The board reviewed a special town meeting warrant article on tax payment bylaw changes. A clerical error in the article’s language prompted a discussion, focusing on ensuring alignment with amended statutes and clarifying tax payment interest waivers. An amendment was proposed to remove “up to” from the agreement, addressing concerns about discretionary language.

32:11Lastly, the board discussed a host community agreement waiver request from a local cannabis grow facility. Changes in laws surrounding host community agreements were examined, particularly regarding fee collection for hosting such facilities. The board debated negotiating a waiver, considering future regulatory measures and odor control issues. The importance of maintaining leverage in negotiations was emphasized, with no significant incidences reported despite ongoing odor concerns.

An update on a water leak on Innovation Way was also provided. Despite not owning the water line, the town was informed of the issue by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation due to potential hazards. The board stressed the need for open communication on the matter.