15:35A key highlight of the meeting was the approval of a new energy deal with Direct Energy, which was selected through a competitive bidding process by Good Energy. This municipal aggregation plan aims to stabilize electricity costs for residents over a 15-month period, offering rates lower than those currently provided by Eversource. To ensure transparency and public engagement, informational materials will be mailed to residents detailing the potential cost savings, and a public hearing is scheduled for July 8th.

The Select Board emphasized the importance of clear communication regarding the benefits of the energy deal, particularly given the likelihood of Eversource’s rates fluctuating during the upcoming winter months. With residents given the option to opt out, the board was keen to highlight the advantages of the new agreement while ensuring that the information was accessible and understandable.

36:05In addition to energy discussions, the board addressed the town’s water, sewer, and stormwater rates. Representatives from the Department of Public Works (DPW) and the finance director presented a plan to fund current and future capital projects, including a recommendation from the Titan bond study to build up to $1 million in retained earnings over a four to five-year period. The proposed tiered rate structure aims to equitably distribute costs among users while safeguarding against large annual rate increases.

The board also tackled several significant infrastructure concerns, notably the town’s water supply reliability. These measures are intended to address vulnerabilities in the water system, particularly during high usage periods or system outages.

36:56Financial considerations regarding water rates were a point of contention, with debates over the appropriateness of fixed versus tiered rates. The board deliberated on the need for substantial rate increases to fund critical capital projects, including waterline replacements and road repaving. A member expressed frustration at the town’s historical reluctance to implement significant rate changes despite numerous studies, urging the board to prioritize expert recommendations and community needs in their decision-making process.

30:04The meeting also saw approval of changes in ownership for liquor licenses involving Maxburger Long Meadow LLC and Max Longmeadow LLC, with assurances that these procedural changes would not impact operations. The attorney representing the petitioner outlined the redemption of membership shares from former members and their distribution to long-standing employees.

11:11Additionally, the town manager’s report provided updates on ongoing projects, including the middle school project and the municipal aggregation plan. The board expressed appreciation for the town manager’s adaptability during challenging budget years, leading to a unanimous decision to adjust her salary and extend her contract.

01:03:54The meeting concluded with discussions surrounding potential expansions to assistance programs for seniors and veterans regarding water rates. There was an agreement to explore automatic discounts for eligible individuals, mirroring existing stormwater utility discount structures.