The TAC’s role and effectiveness were a central topic of concern during the meeting. Attendance and active participation in the TAC have been problematic, leading to discussions about whether to disband the committee altogether. The committee was originally established to develop a comprehensive approach to transportation planning, addressing not only vehicular traffic but also the needs of pedestrians and cyclists. However, it has struggled to fulfill its intended purpose, with some members expressing that meetings often deviate from transportation topics, and others highlighting the challenge of attracting committed volunteers.

Participants acknowledged the achievements of the TAC but noted that the group lacks a dedicated budget and has faced difficulties in maintaining a quorum. There was debate about whether the select board and other town boards have become more attuned to transportation issues, potentially reducing the need for the TAC. Suggestions for the future included restructuring the committee, merging it with the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC), or focusing on more advocacy-related tasks. Some members proposed that a select board member attend TAC meetings to improve communication and engagement.

In parallel, the Board addressed the ongoing deliberations concerning the Orchard property. The property has been a point of contention among community members, with discussions centered around leasing negotiations and the potential for selling the land. Public input was divided, with some residents advocating for leasing to restore the land’s health and others opposing leasing due to past mismanagement. Charlet Russell urged the board to consider the land’s historical significance, while Christine Nordhaus suggested a long-term lease that could allow for future stewardship by the Nooba Praying Indians.

The select board confirmed that negotiations are underway with a potential tenant, Bransfield, but acknowledged that the house on the property is uninhabitable and cannot be included in the lease. The board is exploring various options for compliance with the Agricultural Preservation Restriction (APR) and considering different combinations of leasing and selling non-APR land.

Apart from these two issues, the meeting also covered updates on local projects and budget allocations. Sam Park provided an update on the Point project, emphasizing the need for tenant commitments to proceed with developments like building K, which is slated for construction next summer. The Department of Public Works discussed the snow and ice budget, requesting authorization to exceed the original budget due to recent weather conditions. The board approved a bond request for the Boxboro water extension project, following the bond council’s vote.

Additionally, the meeting addressed a potential Inter-Municipal Agreement (IMA) for health services to ensure public health inquiries can be addressed during the health director’s absence. The board is reaching out to neighboring communities to establish a contingency plan, although details regarding compensation and emergency situations remain under discussion.

The board also handled routine matters, such as approving a one-day liquor license for a library fundraising event and discussing a town employee’s exemption request related to holding multiple municipal positions. The meeting concluded with a note of appreciation for community initiatives, acknowledging the efforts of the Department of Public Works and the Rotary in organizing a community meal packaging event.