The board engaged in a lengthy debate over two key motions regarding the town hall on Shadic Street. Motion one was a non-binding proposal to explore options related to the property, emphasizing the importance of understanding tax implications and financial impacts before making any commitments. Motion two proposed more concrete actions, such as conveying a portion of the property for affordable rental housing and leasing it back for town office use until a new location is secured. The board acknowledged that neither motion authorized spending without future town meeting approvals, maintaining a cautious approach to decision-making.

Concerns were raised about the wording of motion two, with suggestions to use stronger language like “will” or “shall” to ensure contractual obligations are clear and binding. The potential impact on the historical value of the existing town hall was a focal point, with some expressing discomfort over replacing older structures with new developments. This sentiment was echoed by a participant who noted the community’s attachment to the current building.

The board also discussed the implications of a special act related to the property’s future. There was an expressed concern that a temporary relocation of town offices could unintentionally become permanent, a fear stemming from past experiences during renovations of other municipal buildings.

In addition to the main discussion on the town hall, the board addressed updates from the charter review committee. The committee’s work focused on evaluating the town’s governance structure, including the roles and appointment procedures of various boards and committees. The select board discussed the potential for transitioning some elected boards to appointed positions to streamline governance. There was a consensus on the importance of maintaining a balance of power between the select board and the finance committee, particularly in budget presentations.

The board also reviewed upcoming community initiatives, including a Memorial Day parade and discussions about the town’s orchard property. The Memorial Day parade route and agenda were approved unanimously, with recognition given to Commander David Grim as the grand marshal. The board highlighted the significance of this event, noting it would be the last organized by the retiring veterans agent.

Regarding the orchard, the board discussed the need for irrigation infrastructure, specifically the installation of a well, which is outlined as a tenant responsibility in the lease agreement. The board considered pursuing a grant from the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources to help cover costs, with testing indicating a well could yield ten gallons per minute. The importance of long-term planning for the orchard was noted, with discussions about the potential use of lease payments for management services.

Community engagement initiatives were another highlight, with a suggestion to host “citizens academies” to educate residents about town operations. This proposal aimed to enhance public understanding of the select board, planning board, and building department functions through interactive experiences.

Lastly, the board discussed updates on local government funding efforts, including applications for congressional directed spending to support EMS services and a sewer project. The board also reviewed infrastructure improvements, emphasizing coordination with developers to avoid duplication of funding requests.