The meeting addressed the proposal to change the deadline for permit submissions from December 30 to December 15 in the following year. This change aims to provide the health department with additional time to process applications and issue permits before the new year. The agent highlighted that the current system has proven to be ineffective, with numerous outstanding permits still unresolved by early January. The possibility of offering a 10% discount for early submissions was suggested, but the agent opposed this, emphasizing the need for compliance with fees and fairness across the board. Additionally, the current fee structure for the Agricultural Fair was proposed to remain unchanged at $75 for a one-day permit, to avoid setting a precedent for lower fees in future events.

The board also delved into the topic of avian flu. The health department clarified that it is not conducting testing on birds, and homeowners are responsible for the disposal of deceased birds found on their property. The agent provided guidelines for safe disposal and emphasized the rarity of bird-to-human transmission.

In terms of fee structures, the board discussed adjustments to sticker sales for Grace Beach Park. They reached a consensus to raise the fees to $30 and $60, maintaining existing discounts for seniors and veterans. There was a concern about potentially pricing out residents, particularly with a suggested fee of $100, which was opposed by a board member who worried about the financial burden on residents already facing increased water and sewer bills. The board decided against significant fee increases last year due to these financial considerations, and information about the new fee structure will be made available online, with sales beginning on April 1.

Further discussions involved the Recreation Commission’s ongoing projects and community events. A facility use request from the Hilltop Athletic Association for the B1 parking area at Benelli Field was discussed. The association hosts the South Shore Food Truck event on Thursday nights, which has been successful and requires additional parking due to community participation. The absence of a key member responsible for overseeing athletic organizations was noted as a potential hindrance to an immediate decision, and the matter may require a vote at the next meeting.

Updates from the Recreation Office included various community programs, such as the Kids’ Test Kitchen and the successful return of the babysitter safety training. The partnership between the recreation department and local schools was highlighted as beneficial, fostering relationships that could enhance classroom dynamics.

The board also discussed ongoing projects, including electrical work and the tennis court project, which is set to open for bids on February 5, with completion expected by the end of May. The board is pursuing a fiscal year 2026 budget with a target increase of 4% or lower, and the Town Administrator’s proposed budget received approval. There was also a proposal to install an automated external defibrillator (AED) at Grace Beach Park, with a cost of around $2,900, to address community interest and safety concerns.

Additionally, plans for music nights were discussed, with an intention to bring back local musicians and include food trucks at the events. A new food truck operated by Slack-Tide Coffee and Roasters was highlighted as a promising addition to community events.