The meeting began with a focus on the newly passed marijuana cultivation bylaw. Remarks from the floor had suggested that the planning board’s presentation of the proposed changes was insufficient. However, it was clarified that the process included extensive hearings and the involvement of a cannabis law expert in drafting the bylaw.

The planning board had proactively engaged the community through various outreach efforts, including videotaping town meeting previews and providing a detailed Q&A document. Despite these efforts, it was noted that further proposals would necessitate additional support from citizens for another town meeting and ballot question.

Affordable housing was another topic of discussion, particularly the Hager Homestead project, which has two affordable units remaining. The board verified that one unit had closed while a qualified applicant awaited a purchase and sale agreement for the second. The broader issue of providing affordable senior housing was raised, with the board expressing a keen interest in understanding resident preferences and requirements. A study was proposed to gather statistical data on housing needs, focusing on obtaining factual information rather than opinion-based feedback.

The board also touched upon the King Street project, which encompasses housing, parking, and retail space. Infrastructure work, including the redesign of a parking garage, was planned, with the project’s timeline contingent on the completion of a sewer plant construction.

Updates on other projects included the Northern Bank construction, where permit applications were under review, and the 12 Robinson Road project, nearing completion. The board discussed the successful installation of a fire hydrant and modified pavement layout to ensure fire truck access. A surrounding drainage solution was also implemented to address area-specific issues. However, a request to install a pocket park was declined due to space constraints, leading to alternative proposals such as a bond for a bench placement elsewhere in the town.

The board addressed updates to special permit forms for firearm businesses and wireless communication facilities. These updates were met with unanimous approval, emphasizing the need for alignment with jurisdictional changes from previous years.

Zoning diagnostics, authorized at the last town meeting, were also on the agenda. The planning board was invited to provide input on a Request for Quotes (RFP) that had been prepared but not yet distributed. Additionally, there was a need to update the accessory dwelling unit bylaw, aligning with new state legislation that allows certain changes, such as permitting two families without requiring owner occupancy.

Regarding subdivision projects, the board set a bond amount for the Strawberry Farms subdivision, emphasizing the necessity of securing developers’ obligations. The bond process was thoroughly examined, with cash bonds and tri-party agreements being the preferred methods. This discussion included historical context on past challenges when developers defaulted, leading to taxpayer burdens.

Stormwater management bonding also sparked debate, with differing opinions on whether individual lot bonds were necessary. A motion was eventually approved to set a bond amount based on an external estimate, though not without highlighting concerns over the timeliness of communication from involved parties.

Lastly, the board deliberated on a potential real estate development for an assisted living facility. The discussion focused on compliance with zoning bylaws and whether a special permit was required. The board considered the facility’s classification, exploring the potential for reduced affordable unit requirements and the financial viability of the project under current regulations.