The board devoted substantial discussion to the potential hearing regarding a dog that had been labeled dangerous. This topic engaged the board members in a detailed examination of the process required to conduct such a hearing. The board emphasized the importance of allowing the complainant, the dog owners, and other relevant witnesses to present their cases. The hearing could potentially occur in late June or July. The police department had closed its investigation into the complaint due to a lack of engagement from the complainant, but the board expressed hope that additional evidence might be forthcoming during the hearing. The emotional nature of these hearings was acknowledged, given the involvement of residents’ pets.

Meanwhile, the town manager reported on the awarding of an important contract for the Flatill Road Bridge to Kodiak. This decision followed a re-bidding process after a previous contractor failed to fulfill their agreement. Kodiak, having participated in both rounds of bidding, was selected after rigorous reference checks with previous clients. The project involves offsite work, notably the manufacturing of a culvert, with construction slated to begin in the fall. The start date is contingent on favorable water and dam levels, with weather conditions potentially affecting the completion timeline. The board discussed the implications of the work timeline, including necessary restoration work in the spring.

In another major development, the board addressed a time-sensitive matter involving the town’s participation in the recycling dividends grant program. To qualify, the town needed to adopt an updated environmentally preferable purchasing policy. After a brief discussion, the board unanimously adopted the updated policy, which prioritizes sustainable purchasing while allowing for fiscal responsibility.

The board also prepared a letter to the conference committee regarding the FY27 budget. Members supported the letter, which emphasized the need for immediate financial relief for struggling school districts and long-term reform of the funding structure. The timing of the letter was critical, as it needed to be sent promptly to influence the decisions of the conference committee. The board discussed using electronic signatures to expedite the process.

Additionally, the board began planning a workshop to discuss goals for the town manager and the select board. They considered potential dates, with July 14th emerging as a suitable option. The board also deliberated on the scheduling of a potential dog hearing, tentatively setting July 28th while confirming the availability of all parties involved.

The meeting included committee reports, with one member providing updates from the Open Space Committee, which focused on making mail-in voting more accessible for homebound residents. The Planning Board welcomed a new member and approved several properties, though a request for a minor change on Arbor Street required further peer review. The board also addressed ongoing public hearings continued to the next meeting and discussed stormwater permits and site review approvals for a new Subaru dealership.

The Municipal Building Design Committee evaluated departmental space needs, emphasizing cost-effective solutions due to budget constraints. The School Committee discussed public comments on school funding and potential state aid, while the Board of Assessors reviewed assessment activities with a focus on improving accuracy for waterfront properties.