The most pressing topic was the deliberation over improvements to the Four Corners intersection, a longstanding concern due to safety issues. The board debated between installing a four-way stoplight or a mini roundabout, with engineers favoring the latter for its potential to enhance safety and traffic flow. Concerns about traffic backups with a stoplight were also considered. The board discussed a grant opportunity from the Complete Streets program, which could provide up to one million dollars for the project, although the total cost might exceed one and a half million dollars for a roundabout. The board acknowledged the necessity of gauging community support, especially from those who frequently use the intersection, and emphasized the importance of public education and testing before implementation.

Another discussion centered on the proposed North Main Street sidewalk project. The board contemplated an engineering services agreement with Greement Patterson Inc., estimated to cost $49,120 for labor, as part of a larger $220,000 project. The sidewalk would improve safety and bring the area up to ADA standards. However, the project faced skepticism regarding its necessity, as only about 20 people use that particular sidewalk daily. The board debated whether to prioritize this project over other infrastructure needs and considered putting it to a vote at the upcoming town meeting due to previous funding rejections.

The board also reviewed several articles for the special town meeting warrant, including a fencing project at Freetown Elementary School. Initially estimated at $17,800, the fencing cost increased to $25,000 after assessing additional needs. The fencing was deemed necessary for the preschool and kindergarten playground due to safety concerns, with incidents of students wandering into the woods prompting the proposal. The board agreed to move forward with the fencing proposal, recognizing the importance of student safety.

License renewals were another key agenda item. The board approved all alcohol beverage licenses for three establishments—Profile Rock, Inc., Carsley, Inc., and Narrows Road Events LLC—and the Freetown Memorial Post 6643 VFW’s all alcohol beverage club license. Additionally, they renewed licenses for M&H Juniors Inc. and K&E Liquors, Inc., as well as wine and malt beverage licenses for M&H Grandpa’s Inc., Mason Road Food Mart Corp, and Cumberland Farms of Mass Inc. Entertainment licenses for Profile Rock Inc. and the Freetown Memorial Post 6643 VFW were also renewed.

A public hearing focused on a request from Eversource Energy to replace two midspan poles along Bulock Road, part of a reliability initiative to reduce power outages. The board unanimously approved the motion after discussions on safety measures during the work and the potential impact on transmission charges for residents.

The board also addressed various administrative matters, including approving a stipend for Tim Macintosh for website implementation and support, and appointing Keith Sylvia as a truck driver and Heather Johnson as assistant animal control officer. Updates were provided on ongoing projects, such as the Council on Aging parking lot and the helicopter memorial project, with feedback indicating positive progress.