A primary focus of the meeting was the application for a beer and wine license at a cafe located on West State Street. The application presented a discrepancy from the original site plan approved in 2005, with the current owners desiring to expand seating both indoors and outdoors. This proposed change raised concerns about the availability of parking due to the increased seating capacity. The board deliberated over the necessity for a site plan amendment and examined the potential effects on the cafe’s operating permit if the liquor license were granted. The discussion also touched upon the procedural aspects of resolving the discrepancy and whether the Select Board’s approval of the liquor license would demand further input from the Planning Board.

Transitioning to zoning issues, the board grappled with a notable error regarding the creation of lots on Car Street and Chick Street. It was determined that the lots established in the preceding year failed to meet the 60,000 square foot requirement stipulated within the water supply protection district, as they averaged around 40,000 square feet. The board engaged in a debate over how to rectify this oversight and the consequences for the viability of constructing on the lots. The possibility of the lots being grandfathered was discussed, along with the responsibilities of the Board of Health and building inspector in decisions regarding the lots’ buildability.

The board then considered a special permit request presented for hosting events on a property. The applicant provided a sketch of the proposed arrangement and details concerning parking and available facilities. The requirements for obtaining the special permit were scrutinized, as well as the logistics involved in managing events on the site. The applicant stressed their commitment to complying with all regulatory standards and guidelines for event hosting.

The meeting proceeded to discuss the logistics of scheduling a public hearing for the special events permit, with the board anticipating feedback from the fire department and police chief based on past experiences. The conversation extended to the permit fee, addressing the need to distribute application packets to relevant departments, and the possible role of the fire department and police chief in the permitting process. The applicant voiced apprehension regarding the absence of a permanent structure and the necessity to grasp the procedure prior to scheduling events.

Further matters included a complaint about a Golf Center operating outside its approved hours, which was referred to the code enforcement officer for further examination. The board also reviewed an invoice from the Pioneer Planning Commission and deliberated over a memo pertaining to a campaign disclosure report. Additionally, there was an acknowledgment of an application for a community grant and a request directed to the town attorney for information concerning a subdivision plan. The meeting concluded with an assessment of applications for sign replacements and a motion to adjourn.