The program, still in the draft phase, was presented with a focus on providing three distinct energy options for Maynard consumers: a standard offering with more renewable content than state law requires, a 100% green option, and a basic option pegged to the minimum legal renewable content. The plan also includes a proposal to integrate a modest fee into the program’s rates, which would contribute to its management and potentially fund additional town services.

During the meeting, the importance of public participation was underscored, with the board inviting residents to provide feedback on the program’s draft documents. The initiative aims to retain Eversource as the delivery provider while offering new supply choices that could stabilize prices and increase renewable energy use. A significant topic of discussion was the opt-out mechanism that would allow residents to forgo participation in the program if they choose, with a particular emphasis on understanding the experiences and data from other towns that have adopted similar initiatives.

Another discussion item was the presentation of the final report by the 6163 Summer Street reuse committee, which outlined various development options for the old Fowler building. The committee proposed five options, ranging from renovation to demolition and rebuild, artist-owned condos, mixed-age housing, and commercial use. The board considered factors such as historic preservation, potential for tax credits, parking challenges, and the impact on green space. Steve Silverstein’s cost-benefit analysis of the options was examined, with the artist work-only studio option showing the highest economic potential and mixed-age housing the lowest, though the assumptions of the analysis, especially regarding education costs, were questioned.

The board also approved several significant items throughout the meeting. These included the acceptance of a memorial bench donation for the rail trail, the appointment of a new member to the Cultural Council, and the reappointment of board committee members. Additionally, a special permit was granted to Aona Sellers LLC to sell wine at the Maynard Farmers Market, and a new contract with Veolia North America Northeast LLC for the operation of the town’s wastewater treatment facility was approved after a discussion about its seven-year duration.

Moreover, the board addressed the latest developments in the Green Meadow School building project, confirmed the allocation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for various town initiatives, and recognized the achievements of two Eagle Scouts. The board also engaged in discussions about the timing and content of future meetings, emphasizing the importance of capital planning and community involvement.