The primary focus of the meeting was the approval of updated storm water management rules and regulations. The revised bylaw, reduced from 27 pages to four, aims to streamline compliance with state and federal environmental standards. These changes entail moving detailed performance requirements to the Department of Public Works (DPW) rules and regulations, which can be updated without requiring a town meeting. This approach allows for more flexibility in aligning with evolving Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requirements without the need to amend the bylaw itself. The board discussed how this change would not impact existing planning board special permits or conservation commission requirements.

Additionally, the board addressed the current drought situation by voting to implement a ban on non-essential outdoor water use. Although the town’s reservoir levels are stable, the state has declared a critical water condition due to a persistently dry fall. The board emphasized the importance of conserving water both indoors and outdoors and decided to follow the state’s guidance until conditions improve. This decision aligns with previous actions taken during similar drought conditions, although the current time of year naturally limits outdoor water usage.