The board approved a new sculpture project spearheaded by a group named “Maynard as a Canvas.” This group plans to install a six-foot-tall sheep sculpture designed by students from Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School. The sculpture, a nod to Maynard’s historical wool mill industry, will be placed in a prominent area along the rail trail. The project aims to celebrate the town’s heritage and educate both locals and visitors. The board’s approval is contingent upon adherence to guidelines set by the Department of Public Works. Concerns were raised regarding lawn maintenance around the installation, but the group assured that the sculpture’s design would minimize interference. The project timeline could extend into 2026, depending on the students’ schedules.

The meeting also focused on the fiscal year 2026 tax classification hearing, where the board reviewed options for setting tax rates. Sean Delrose from the Board of Assessors presented several classification options, including whether to adopt a split or single tax rate. The board recommended maintaining a tax factor of 1.31, as in the previous year, to balance the tax burden between residential and commercial properties. The small commercial exemption, which has eligibility criteria, was debated. The board concluded that it primarily benefits property owners rather than small business operators, leading to a unanimous vote against adopting this exemption for FY26.

The residential exemption, which could shift up to 35% of the tax burden from owner-occupied to non-owner-occupied properties, was also considered. With 91% of Maynard properties owner-occupied, the board voted against this exemption as well. Delrose noted that while shifting tax rates can alter the burden on different property classes, it often does not change individual tax bills. The board emphasized the importance of open dialogue and encouraged residents to file for abatement if they feel their property assessments are unjust.

In addition to the sculpture and tax discussions, the board addressed the appointment of Peg Brown to the Senior Center Committee. Brown, participating via Zoom, expressed her enthusiasm for contributing to the committee in light of a recent resignation. Her appointment was unanimously approved for a term expiring on June 30, 2028. The board also discussed the Green Meadow School Building Committee’s procedures for approving change orders. A motion was approved to allow the committee to handle these without further approval from the Select Board, streamlining the process.

Licensing matters included approving new and renewed victualer licenses for La Rotisseria LLC, a Brazilian barbecue establishment, and Cafe of India. Both motions passed without opposition. The meeting also covered departmental overviews, with Kevin Peterson from the accounting office highlighting ongoing financial tasks and improvements. The town’s treasury office outlined its operations, including managing cash flow and investments, while addressing the challenges of handling unclaimed checks and municipal lien certificates.

The board discussed health insurance costs, which have risen significantly. The town covers 75% of employee premiums, a common practice among small towns. Despite generous benefits, the board expressed concern over the increasing costs, particularly given the budget deficit of $310,000. The board also touched on the upcoming Veterans Day events, community involvement, and public outreach efforts to promote online payment options for residents.