The potential use of the Thornton Burgess building as the senior center was debated, including its implications for operating expenses. Members also suggested considering a broader community center aspect to cater to different demographics, highlighting the need for better communication with the town regarding the project’s revised plan.

The meeting also saw a discussion on the appointment of a new member to the planning board, with two candidates, Alan Marshall and John Matthews, presenting their qualifications. The dialogue touched on their interest in the role, time commitment, and future intentions, emphasizing the master plan’s role in guiding town development. The importance of new leadership and the impact of change on the town’s character were debated.

Additionally, the Senior Center building committee’s plan to place their proposal on the warrant for the town meeting was a point of discussion. The committee raised concerns about construction cost escalations and the potential repercussions of delaying the project. The logistics of holding a special town meeting and election were debated, considering factors like voter turnout and the timing of the election.

The town moderator brought forth potential changes to the town meeting process, suggesting consent voting and electronic voting to enhance meeting speed, transparency, and accuracy. The separation of budget information from other warrant articles was proposed to better inform voters ahead of the meeting. The moderator stressed the importance of collaboration with the advisory board to implement these changes effectively.

Further discussions entailed the possibility of offering childcare services to increase attendance at town meetings, and considerations were made regarding the optimal date for the town meeting, with some favoring the 21st and others the 28th of October. The Board also contemplated closing the warrant earlier to provide voters more time to review information.

Financial matters were also on the agenda, with the Board reviewing budget transfers and expressing surprise at surpluses in certain categories. The movement of funds from various accounts to the general fund sparked debate about the conformity with town meeting decisions and called for better oversight. Plans for the potential takeover of a building were discussed, with intentions to collaborate with the school committee. The installation of a generator by the fire department was tabled for further consideration, and there were updates on the renewal of a cable license agreement and the establishment of a school zone on North Road. Reappointments for the town clerk and the records access officer were made.