One notable issue discussed at the meeting was the substantial budget deficit resulting from a reduction in state aid. Andrew, the town administrator, outlined the situation, stating that the town is facing a $414,000 shortfall for the current and next fiscal years due to a cut in state smart growth aid. This shortfall poses a severe challenge to the town’s budget planning. Discussions with Senator Rodri have taken place, but any restoration in the Senate budget will not affect the current fiscal year. Board members expressed their dissatisfaction, with one member characterizing the state’s actions as “egregious,” especially given the town’s previous investments and compliance efforts.

In preparation for the town meeting, the board reviewed numerous articles. Article one concerns the allocation of retained earnings for capital purchases at the transfer station. Article two deals with unpaid bills, while articles three and four involve capital improvement programs funded by capital stabilization and free cash, respectively. Article nine introduces an enforcement mechanism for certain bylaws, proposing either a building commissioner or police officer to handle enforcement. There was a discussion about the need to broaden the language to cover potential violations and penalties across all relevant bylaws.

The board debated whether to include a $75,000 irrigation well and site work in article three. Opinions varied, with some members suggesting the cost was prohibitive, while others felt it could be deferred. A motion to remove the item from the article was passed. The discussion also covered the procedure for voting on each article individually, a practice of interest to a former board member. The board decided to proceed with this approach alongside the finance committee’s recommendations.

In a separate matter, the board approved a request from Red Hand Brewing to open on May 20, 2025, for a Cranberry County Chamber of Commerce meeting, with questions raised about the brewery’s choice not to apply for a full week’s liquor license. The approval passed without further discussion.

The board also addressed the resignation of a select board member, effective immediately. The board expressed gratitude for his contributions and discussed the process for filling the vacancy. Massachusetts General Law was referenced regarding the possibility of a special election, with costs estimated between $10,000 and $15,000. The town clerk requires 65 days’ notice to schedule such an election. The board decided to delay accepting the resignation until the next meeting to allow for any reconsideration.

Plans for a significant Christmas event in 2025 were also discussed, building on the success of the previous year’s Snowman Jubilee, which raised approximately $12,000 for the animal shelter. Andrew, along with Michelle McKran, has been working with community stakeholders to expand the event, potentially including a parade, bonfire, and fireworks. The board emphasized the need for logistical planning, especially concerning the parade route and parking. Funding sources such as fundraising efforts and the select board’s gift account were mentioned.

Additionally, the board discussed administrative matters, including the posting of an associate member for the planning board, a position created in November 2022 but not yet utilized. The associate member would participate in discussions related to special permits, which require a supermajority vote. The board decided to post the position for one year, acknowledging that the planning board had not previously acted on this matter.

The meeting concluded with routine appointments and updates, including the appointment of Brian Sodtoilla to the Economic Development Committee, with a term expiring on July 31, 2026. The board expressed optimism about the committee’s revival after six years of inactivity. The communication and community outreach subcommittee reported the appointment of a new candidate, Lisa Johnson, with her term also expiring on July 31, 2026.