A major decision involved the approval of a $120,000 budget for DPC Engineering Services to ensure compliance with the state’s MS4 permit regarding municipal storm sewer systems. This funding, reduced from an initial $170,000 estimate thanks to overlaps with another project, will be sourced from $90,000 in free cash and $30,000 budgeted for professional services. The board stressed the importance of adhering to state regulations and discussed the possibility of eventually handling such compliance work internally.

In a related infrastructure initiative, the board accepted a $179,000 grant from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for ditch mapping, a joint project with the town of Hadley. This project aims to survey and clean overgrown ditches, which have traditionally been maintained by farmers. The board emphasized the urgency of this project, noting its completion is necessary by the fiscal year’s end.

The meeting also detailed the board’s acknowledgment of the need for updated FEMA flood maps, which have not been revised since 1980. The new maps incorporate updated hydrology, climate change considerations, and infrastructure changes. A 30-day review period is underway to identify any inaccuracies, followed by a 90-day appeal process. The board discussed the implications of these maps for insurance rates and flood zone identification, emphasizing the necessity of public feedback during the review period.

Attention then turned to an important personnel issue: the salary adjustment for Jerry Rogers, the director of the Council on Aging. The board approved a wage increase to $32.34 per hour, effective August 27, 2025. The board acknowledged Rogers’ extended work hours and the community engagement under her leadership. Efforts to offset the costs of the salary adjustment include reallocating state grant funds and seeking to waive a $1,500 data management service fee.

The opioid settlement task force presented its findings, stemming from Massachusetts’ participation in a nationwide lawsuit against opioid manufacturers and distributors. The settlement has allocated funds to cities and towns, including Hatfield, since 2022. The task force conducted a community survey, receiving 131 responses, to determine acceptable uses for these funds. Key priorities identified were opioid misuse prevention, education, and support for individuals in treatment and recovery. The task force proposed recommendations, including prevention education, Narcan training, and support groups, and emphasized the importance of educational programs in schools.

Discussions around zoning changes were also prominent, focusing on approximately 40 parcels identified as “zoning islands” with inconsistent designations. The planning board chair outlined the process for these changes, which are in line with long-term planning goals. A public hearing is scheduled to engage community feedback. Some members expressed concern over the impact of these changes on local businesses and property values, advocating for a thoughtful approach that respects longstanding business operations.

The board also addressed potential modifications to town facilities, including repurposing an unfinished metal building for archives, police services, and a pickleball court. This proposal aims to provide cost-effective solutions for emergency services and additional space for the fire department. The conversation highlighted the need for a phased development approach, balancing financial implications with community needs.

The meeting concluded with discussions on personnel appointments within the Department of Public Works, infrastructure preparations for winter, and ongoing projects such as Smith Academy’s carpet replacement. The board also addressed the installation of Purple Heart signs, the procurement of a new highway plow, and a grant application for the Ferry Street pump station.