A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to the proposed immigration policy. The policy aims to clarify the responsibilities of town employees. It prohibits town officials from imposing limits on sharing information regarding citizenship and immigration status and specifies that no employee shall inquire about or collect this information unless required by law. Community reactions were varied, with some expressing support for the policy’s protective measures, while others voiced concerns about its potential impact on public safety.

The meeting included remarks from several community members, each offering their perspective on the policy. One speaker emphasized the distinction between the proposed policy and the concept of a sanctuary city, asserting that the policy is intended to provide legal clarity to police officers regarding their duties. Another participant pointed out that the policy does not extend resources or invitations to undocumented individuals, but rather affirms legal protections for all residents of Natick.

Concerns about the policy’s potential effects on public safety were prevalent. Residents like Ronald Conrado, a retired police officer, expressed apprehensions that the policy might hinder law enforcement’s ability to protect the community. Conrado referenced reports suggesting that sanctuary cities could pose risks to citizens, urging the Board to carefully consider the implications of adopting such a policy. Another resident, Roger Scott, shared his experiences with local crime and emphasized the need for strong cooperation between the police department and federal authorities to ensure effective crime prosecution.

The proposed policy also raised discussions about the importance of community trust in law enforcement. Some board members highlighted the need to foster trust with immigrant communities to encourage crime reporting, regardless of individuals’ documentation status.

The board also addressed the ongoing issues faced by Amvets Post 79, particularly regarding its liquor and entertainment licenses. The Deputy Chief reported on the need for Amvets to submit necessary documentation and the concerns surrounding the suitability of their proposed manager of record. The board deliberated on imposing a mandatory five-day suspension due to previous infractions, while also considering whether additional penalties should be applied. The board expressed a desire to support Amvets in fulfilling its mission while ensuring compliance with licensing regulations.

In addition to these discussions, the board reviewed a draft policy on immigration documentation, which aims to align with current practices and state laws. The policy prohibits town resources from being used to enforce federal immigration laws and reassures the community that individuals can cooperate with law enforcement without fear of retribution. The board emphasized the importance of public engagement and transparency in developing and implementing such policies.

The meeting also featured a presentation on the municipal decarbonization roadmap, a 25-year planning tool designed to guide Natick in reducing emissions and qualifying as a climate leader. The roadmap outlines strategies for upgrading municipal equipment and facilities, with a focus on leveraging grant funding to support decarbonization efforts. Board members expressed appreciation for the comprehensive nature of the roadmap and its alignment with existing capital plans.