One board member emphasized the need to protect water resources and property from accidents. The Attorney General had expressed skepticism about moratoriums, viewing them as potential obstructions to development, but the board decided a six-month duration would align with the timeline of the upcoming town meeting. The importance of a detailed operations and maintenance plan for BESS was underscored, along with the need to update existing solar bylaws to accommodate new regulations for battery systems. The motion to establish the temporary moratorium was seconded and approved unanimously.

Another topic was the application of Daniel Buro for a special permit to construct a private garage that exceeds the allowed square footage as outlined in the town’s zoning bylaws. Buro presented his plans for a 30 by 44-foot structure with a 12-foot lean-to, designed to resemble a barn to fit the rural aesthetic of the area. The application received no objections from the town clerk or Police Chief Scott B. Trembley. Board members expressed their understanding of the site and the proposed construction, noting the appropriateness of the new structure given the distance of surrounding homes. The special permit was approved unanimously.

The board also held a public hearing on amending the town’s zoning bylaws by replacing the term “Board of Selectmen” with “Select Board.” This change aimed to modernize and encourage broader participation in local government roles. The government study committee initiated this change to reflect more neutral terminology, though it was not mandated by the state. Board members discussed the frequency of the term “Selectmen” in the bylaws and noted that other towns, including Wolverham, had made similar changes. While acknowledging the historical significance of the term “Selectmen,” the board expressed a desire to promote inclusivity. The motion to recommend the change passed unanimously.

Additionally, the board discussed the recent changes in state law regarding accessory dwelling units (ADUs). There is considerable interest from residents in pursuing ADUs, but local bylaws do not align with the new state regulations. Concerns were raised about setbacks, implications for non-conforming lots, and the lack of a clear process for residents wanting to add an ADU to their properties. The board suggested consulting with the building inspector and the Board of Health to better understand the regulatory landscape.

The discussion included defining what constitutes an ADU in terms of space and planning requirements. Questions arose about the aggregate square footage allowed for construction, including whether a basement should count towards the total living area. The board decided to familiarize themselves with the newly passed state law before the next meeting and proposed compiling a list of questions to submit to Town Council for clarity on how to proceed with the new ADU regulations. Immediate inquiries from residents would be directed to the building inspector for preliminary guidance based on current bylaws until the new regulations are integrated.

The meeting also included a site plan review for a proposed home office on Bennett Road. The applicant, a new resident of Hampden, sought approval for a virtual law firm operating primarily through online meetings, with no significant parking or alterations to the property needed. The board appeared satisfied with the proposal, raising no immediate concerns about its impact on the neighborhood. The application for the home occupation was approved unanimously.