In a notable segment of the meeting, resident Ken Weissman raised concerns regarding the town’s adherence to the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) conditions related to the Water Resource Protection By-Law. Weissman highlighted potential violations linked to Fire Department training activities upstream of the wells and the presence of the Old Pine office building within Zone One, which was supposed to be removed as part of a prior MEPA approval. He underscored the lengthy approval process involved with MEPA, averaging three years, emphasizing the need for compliance with these conditions to protect the town’s water resources.

Another topic addressed was the financial management of Hopkinton’s funds and investment strategies. The board examined the town’s banking relationships, noting that an amount of $20 million is now held in a money market account at Country Bank, a relatively new financial partner. The Massachusetts Municipal Depository Trust (MMDT), a long-standing municipal fund providing pooled security, was highlighted for its unique benefits despite lacking insurance. Additionally, Barthol, the town’s investment bank, manages over 2.6 billion in assets, focusing on trust funds, stabilization funds, and Community Preservation Act (CPA) accounts. These funds adhere to Massachusetts’ investment limitations, with discussions on potential future diversification pending legislative changes.

Financial discussions extended to the town’s online payment systems and handling of credit and debit card transactions. It was noted that credit card payments are facilitated through UniPay, with processing fees added to bills, and that specific departments hold debit cards for emergency or departmental use, managed under strict controls to prevent fraud.

Staffing changes within the police department were also addressed, with the introduction of Lucille Creed as a police officer candidate. Creed, a recent Westfield State graduate with prior experience in Vermont, was set to attend the Massachusetts police academy due to certification transfer issues. Her appointment was unanimously approved.

The board also focused on the Sustainable Green Committee, appointing three candidates—Laa Kalpana, Jacqueline Murphy, and Dave Roberts—to three-year terms. Each candidate brought a unique perspective, from environmental management systems to transportation initiatives and community education on green practices.

In terms of personnel vacancies, the upcoming retirement of Sarah Hunter, the library’s administrative assistant, and the need for a procurement and grants manager were discussed. Both roles are essential for maintaining the library’s operations and ensuring effective financial management across the town. The board authorized the posting of these positions, recognizing their critical impact on the town’s administrative functions.

Community preservation was another significant concern, with Weissman urging the board to prioritize a meeting with the Community Preservation Committee to discuss CPA borrowing for the rehabilitation of Center School. He stressed that the lack of support for CPC borrowing could halt funding for architectural costs, impacting future town meeting agendas.

Finally, the meeting covered various community engagement activities and future agenda items, emphasizing the need for filling vacant positions on committees like the water and sewer advisory group. Board members also praised the planning board’s work on the MBTA communities act and called for updates on the affordable housing action plan.