One notable issue during the meeting was the citizen petition proposing a moratorium on artificial turf fields, a topic that sparked extensive discussion among board members and community participants. The proposal aimed to address growing health concerns surrounding artificial turf, particularly the presence of microplastics and PFAS that might pose risks to human health. Dr. McKenzie, a proponent of the moratorium, emphasized the need for caution, citing medical studies that suggest potential hazards, including cardiovascular diseases linked to microplastics. Dr. Roger Luckman joined the conversation.

The debate revealed divergent perspectives among board members. Some expressed skepticism about the advisory nature of the moratorium, questioning its practical implications. One board member voiced uncertainty, stating, “I’m just not sure what passing an advisory moratorium does,” while another participant argued that the moratorium would convey a clear message to the community about the urgency of taking action. They believed that approving the moratorium would emphasize the need for immediate attention to the issue, stating, “We think that town meeting voting an advisory moratorium sends a very clear message to everybody in the town that we need to do something now about this.”

The discussion also touched on the logistics of conducting a comprehensive field study, which would reassess the town’s field resource needs and consider potential advancements in turf technology. The proposed three-year timeline for the moratorium was highlighted, with the hope that it would allow time for the development of safer alternatives, such as “Paris Turf,” and for consideration of natural turf options funded by the Community Preservation Act.

Despite the detailed arguments and varying opinions, the board reached a stalemate, resulting in a tie vote on the motion for favorable action on the moratorium. This impasse led to a debate about whether the record of the discussion should be included in the town meeting recommendation, with one member advocating for its inclusion to provide insight into the deliberative process.

In addition to the artificial turf discussion, the meeting addressed Article 10, which involves funding for the Massachusetts School Building Authority process for the Memorial School. The school committee sought an appropriation for a feasibility study and schematic design work, emphasizing the importance of borrowing funds to meet MSBA’s requirements. The town administration recommended borrowing over repurposing remaining Kennedy funds or utilizing free cash, citing legal concerns and the need to preserve free cash for other purposes. The urgency of securing approval by the MSBA’s deadline was discussed, as failure to do so could force the town to restart the process.

The meeting also covered routine matters related to licensing fees, focusing on dog licenses and the potential need for a public hearing if fee changes were proposed. It was noted that the Select Board sets these fees, while the clerk handles issuance. Members agreed on the importance of maintaining stability in fees. There was a consensus to keep fees for Fiscal Year 2026 unchanged from Fiscal Year 2025.

In administrative updates, the board welcomed a new member, Ari, who succeeded a retiree, and discussed strategies to improve communication with residents regarding ongoing construction projects. Additionally, updates from the Audit Advisory Committee and Economic Development Committee were shared, touching on the ongoing audit process and potential events tied to the upcoming World Cup.