12:40During the meeting, Randy Daven, chair of the charities organizing Charter Day, outlined a plan to raise funds by increasing parking fees. The proposal was to charge $20 for parking at the Taylor Street entrance during truck pulls, while maintaining a $10 fee for general parking. Daven explained that this adjustment was necessary because previous attendees often entered without paying, posing enforcement challenges. He emphasized that the change aimed to recoup financial losses and projected an income of approximately $45,000 against expenses of $43,000 for the event. The board engaged in a discussion, weighing the implications of higher fees given that attendees had previously parked for free. Ultimately, a motion was passed to implement the $20 parking fee.

23:49In another discussion, John Edwards provided an update on the timber harvesting efforts in a local park. This phase, the second and potentially last, focuses on the northern section of the park, targeting infested hemlock and white pine trees. Edwards detailed the challenges posed by the hemlock woolly adelgid pest, advocating for selective tree removal to promote a balanced ecosystem. He shared that the previous harvest had successfully encouraged new growth, with white pine seedlings emerging in areas where older trees were removed. The board recognized the importance of this operation, as it aims to recover value from dead trees before further deterioration.

43:41The board also addressed stormwater management regulations, announcing a public hearing scheduled for June 2, 2025. The proposed regulations would implement Chapter 25 of the town’s general bylaws, aligning with state and federal requirements, including the U.S. EPA’s NPDES permit. A representative highlighted the necessity of these regulations to manage stormwater runoff effectively and eliminate illicit connections to the storm drain system. The regulations would require permits for projects disturbing 40,000 square feet or more, and the timeline for voting is critical to avoid fines and ensure compliance.

51:13Concerns were raised regarding the town’s infrastructure and office space needs. Discussions revealed that the cost of new construction has risen significantly, with estimates suggesting $650 per square foot for new builds and $2.5 to $2.9 million for demolitions. The board considered various options, including repurposing existing structures, but faced challenges in aligning community perceptions with actual service usage. The idea of “value engineering” was introduced as a means to control costs without sacrificing functionality. The board recognized the need for a long-term strategy that addresses both immediate and future needs, avoiding temporary fixes that would only delay solutions.

40:18Further community concerns emerged about a new farm stand near the Hatch old farmhouse, with residents expressing dissatisfaction over traffic and disturbances caused by construction activities. The board discussed the necessity of ensuring compliance with local regulations and engaging in dialogue with affected residents. A preliminary conversation with the building commissioner was proposed to clarify the status of the construction and permit adherence.

01:12:45As the meeting drew to a close, the board emphasized the importance of community involvement in governance. Committee appointments were discussed, highlighting the need to engage new individuals in town activities and fill existing vacancies on various boards. The meeting concluded with preparations for the upcoming town meeting, including a commitment to deliver a state-of-the-town address focusing on community strengths beyond financial metrics.