The most notable issue at the meeting was the public hearing about the request from National Grid and Verizon to install 17 new utility poles on Chapen Road. Reen Hoffman, representing National Grid, explained the project aimed to enhance power supply reliability by replacing 40-foot poles with 45-foot ones and installing tree wire to prevent outages caused by falling trees.

However, residents like Edward Plum voiced strong concerns about the existing double poles along Chapen Road. Plum highlighted the dangers posed by the ten double poles currently standing, including one that had previously collapsed onto the street. He noted that the law requires the removal of double poles within 90 days, yet this often fails to occur due to enforcement challenges. Plum proposed that the town should tax these double poles, as they remain on town property. Celeste Drake, another resident, echoed these safety concerns, insisting that existing issues must be resolved before any new poles are installed.

Hoffman clarified that the responsibility for removing the double poles lies with telecom companies in partnership with National Grid. He assured residents that National Grid could pressure these companies to expedite the removals and referred to a task force established to address these issues. Despite these assurances, skepticism remained among residents, who stressed the necessity for cleanup of existing poles before any further installations.

Following this heated discussion, the board shifted focus to the fire department. The introduction of two new fire cadets was highlighted, emphasizing the importance of the cadet program in fostering future careers in fire service. The fire department also presented a brief report on the Safe Grant, which aims to expand fire safety education in schools and among senior citizens. A proposal to regionalize this grant with the Wilham fire department was discussed, allowing for better resource allocation and teaching coverage.

In another significant topic, the board addressed the status of an ambulance purchased from Westampton for $2,500, which was barely operational. Palmer, a neighboring town, expressed interest in buying the ambulance for $3,500 as part of its new EMS program. A motion to approve the sale and direct the proceeds back to the fire department’s gift fund was unanimously passed.

The board then discussed the newly installed EV charging stations, which are currently operational and charge 45 cents per kilowatt hour. While there was a suggestion to introduce session fees for cars parked after charging, concerns about electricity cost uncertainties led to a decision to keep the current rate unchanged until more information is available.

Attention then turned to the pending Charter Cable contract, which awaits new pole installations. A draft of the Charter Cable license was reviewed, focusing on Public Education and Government (PEG) access provisions to enable broadcasting of public meetings and educational programming. The board discussed a tiered system for PEG access support fees, starting with zero in the first year and incrementally increasing in subsequent years. Initial capital payments were proposed to acquire necessary audiovisual equipment for broadcasting town meetings.

The board recognized the importance of thorough planning and clear communication among members and with the community to address these ongoing challenges effectively.