The resident’s property dispute emerged as a issue when they raised concerns that a newly installed septic system on an adjacent property did not adhere to state regulations, which require a minimum distance of five feet from the property line. The board recognized the gravity of the situation and suggested enlisting the Board of Health and potentially the town attorney to resolve the matter. The resident’s request for reimbursement for the survey cost to validate the encroachment was also taken into consideration, as the board agreed to look further into the issue. This incident underscored the need for clearer guidelines and due diligence in enforcing compliance with property regulations.

In administrative actions, the board approved a recommendation from the town clerk to reduce early voting hours for the upcoming state primary election. The recommendation, which was based on historical data reflecting a low turnout and the availability of alternative voting methods, resulted in the new early voting schedule being set to four days, including a Saturday and three weekdays.

The renewal of the Hampshire Public Health shared services collaborative intermunicipal agreement was confirmed, allowing Hatfield to continue receiving public health services and resources through a grant program with Northampton’s public health nurses. This agreement has been particularly beneficial to the town amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic.

The selection of members for the Town Administrator search committee was another focal point of the meeting. The board reviewed four letters of interest and deliberated on the candidates’ strengths and qualifications. Appointments included Anna Hull Hut and David Kier, among others, with the board expressing the need for the newly appointed members to be sworn in before the search committee’s meeting.

On labor relations, the board voted to approve the Teamsters Union Local 404 labor agreement, spanning three years. The acceptance of the resignation of Barry Le as veteran services officer was also voted on, along with the approval of the veteran services intermunicipal agreement between Hatfield and the City of Northampton.

Project updates were provided, including the successful completion of the Smith Academy Park pavilion project, which concluded with a final cost under budget. The board acknowledged the contractor and architect’s efforts in this endeavor. Additionally, the Town Administrator reported on the Mass Works quarterly update, noting a reimbursement request and discussing project delays, such as dewatering issues and wiring completion in the pump station.

The meeting also shed light on the Feld 2040 comprehensive plan update. The board praised the core team for their review of the final action plan documents and the final report’s submission for reimbursement. Updates were given on the balcony completion, the TV studio project, and the allocation of funds for fire department turnout gear and town hall area renovation. Finally, progress on bid specifications for the Culvert project and the water treatment plant project was reviewed, including a loan application submission to USDA.