Shutesbury Mulls Over Electronic Voting and Rejects High-Cost EV Charger

Overview: In a recent Shutesbury Select Board meeting, discussions ranged from the potential implementation of electronic voting to the decision against a costly electric vehicle (EV) charger installation. The meeting saw the appointment of new Conservation Commission members and touched on topics such as regional school budget considerations and a request for support on a grant application aimed at improving town infrastructure.

Shutesbury Grapples with Regional School Budget Increase

Overview: In the recent meeting of the Shutesbury Select Board, one notable issue discussed was the substantial 88.2% increase in the regional school budget and its potential impact on the town’s finances. The topic dominated the conversation with concerns about the fairness of the increase and the implications for Shutesbury’s tax rate. The Finance Committee suggested a more moderate 6% increase for the town, challenging the proposed budget. The meeting concluded with no resolution on the matter, leaving significant uncertainty about the next steps and the possibility of further discussion.

Shutesbury Grapples with Groundwater Contamination and Solar Bylaw Litigation

Overview: The Shutesbury Select Board meeting raised concerns about groundwater contamination and ongoing litigation regarding the town’s solar bylaw. Top of the agenda was the environmental challenge posed by gasoline and potential PFAS contamination affecting local groundwater supplies. The board debated the necessity of a new monitoring well on private property, the long-term management of treatment systems, and the financial implications for the town. A related issue was the potential need for a public water system due to the absence of one, highlighting the town’s reliance on wells and the risks posed by contaminants. The discussion also encompassed a potential class action lawsuit against 3M for PFAS mitigation and the challenges of establishing a new water supply in the face of contamination and high costs.

Shutesbury Tackles Town Governance, Infrastructure, and Environmental Bylaws

Overview: During a recent Shutesbury Select Board meeting, a variety of issues were addressed including the proposal of new bylaws concerning energy storage and outdoor illumination, discussions on granting voting rights to noncitizens, and deliberations on the town’s infrastructure needs such as a new generator for the highway department and funding for gravel road repairs. The board also considered amendments to zoning bylaws, the introduction of associate planning board members, and special permit review criteria. Furthermore, the board reviewed citizen petitions, including one advocating for the regulation of large-scale solar installations, and another scheduled for the annual town meeting warrant.