0:00The meeting opened with an emphasis on the Cano development project, which drew considerable public interest. Resident Laura in Sudbury voiced concerns about the project’s potential to exacerbate flooding in an already swampy area that serves as an overflow water storage zone. Harris pointed out the risks to groundwater and questioned the safety implications for emergency vehicle access if the roads were flooded. She also mentioned the proximity of the proposed wastewater management system to wetlands and its potential impact on local wildlife. Additional online participants, Abby Barrett and Bailey Faxton, raised issues about access to public transportation and the environmental impact, respectively. Barrett questioned how residents would access transit services like the MBTA train station, while Faxton emphasized the importance of considering the nearby National Wildlife Refuge in future development decisions.

The board then moved on to approve the consent agenda, which included a cemetery deed and a rain date for the Botti tournament, both passed unanimously.

In a notable development, the board discussed the formal application for filming in Maynard by a production team for the TV show “Ted.” Ryan Cook, the location manager, detailed that they were interested in capturing iconic New England scenery in downtown Maynard. Cook reassured the board that the filming would not involve a large crew or significant disruptions, joking, “I think by the time people see us they might just think like we’re doing a mayonnaise commercial.” However, concerns were raised about potential traffic disruptions, especially for a scene requiring a car to drive in the opposite direction on a street. The production team appreciated the town’s cooperation and emphasized their intent to minimize any impact on local residents.

15:27The board also delved into a contract with Select Energy for the installation of solar panels at the high school. Representatives from Select Energy explained that amendments were needed due to discrepancies in property descriptions and the need to include all deeds associated with the school property. This amendment aimed to clarify language without altering the number or location of the solar panels. The board concluded that no action from the school committee was required since the Select Board held ownership of the properties involved.

33:36A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing a change order related to a traffic improvement project at the intersection of Hayes Brown and Conquer Street. The Public Works Director presented two change orders aimed at enhancing safety and connectivity. The first change order was to address a pedestrian sidewalk in disrepair, not compliant with ADA standards, and suffering from stormwater issues. The second involved removing a “spur” lane on Acton Street to reduce pedestrian crossings and improve traffic flow. Concerns were raised about the impact on truck access to nearby Cumberland Farms, but alternative delivery routes were deemed manageable. The board highlighted the long-term benefits of these changes, including improved safety and reduced cut-through traffic in residential areas.

The board also discussed the installation of a stop sign at the intersection of Boast Hill and Deing Rose. This request stemmed from a resident’s correspondence advocating for enhanced safety measures. The police chief noted that while the stop sign was not strictly necessary, it could provide a safety advantage. The board emphasized the need for a consistent approach to evaluating traffic safety improvement requests, acknowledging the importance of considering each incident individually.

50:53Another focal point was the Chapter 40B application from Caner Development for a project on Parker Street. The Massachusetts Housing Partnership (MHP) is assessing the project’s eligibility to bypass local zoning laws. Public comments were encouraged, with a town deadline set for October 21st. An onsite visit revealed limited visibility of the development site due to tree cover, but wetlands were noted. The board emphasized the town’s inability to support the proposed development based on existing water utility capacity, a critical point for public discussions.

The meeting also covered the town’s financial planning, approaching the fiscal year 2026 budget process. A draft policy statement was presented, and the board discussed notifying the finance committee rather than requiring formal approval. Conservative revenue growth estimates were emphasized to guide future budgetary decisions, particularly concerning the school department’s budget.

Additionally, the board discussed the upcoming Special Town Meeting on October 7th, focusing on the division of responsibilities for presenting articles. A home rule petition for a liquor license for the Main Corner Store was highlighted, with a recommendation for clear communication to the public about its implications.