The meeting opened with a discussion about the transparency of meeting minutes. One member expressed frustration over the protocol that prevents posting draft minutes until they are approved, arguing that public comments cannot be accurately represented if not made accessible to the public. This viewpoint sparked a broader dialogue on the need for systematic transparency across the town. There was consensus on exploring the possibility of making draft minutes available alongside meeting agendas, with a clear label of “Draft” to prevent misinterpretation. This move aims to address delays in information accessibility, which some members attributed to the select board’s slow approval process for minutes.

Another issue addressed was the status of open space grants, which has become increasingly competitive as the state shifts its funding priorities towards housing and infrastructure. Members expressed concern that this trend leaves open space initiatives at a disadvantage.

The conversation transitioned to a detailed review of the public access hiking trails map, where the inclusion of the Caldwell Farm trail was debated. The committee stressed the need for accuracy in public communications, recalling past issues where trails marked as available were not ready for use. It was decided to hold off on adding the Caldwell Farm trail until it is officially open to prevent public confusion. Members also discussed the necessity of consistent signage across town properties to ensure clear and welcoming communication about permissible activities and restrictions.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the management and future of the Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP). The committee explored the possibility of hiring a candidate to lead the plan’s update, emphasizing the importance of project management and community engagement. Collaboration with the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission was considered as a potential resource, and there was discussion about involving community members in accessibility assessments. This approach aims to ensure that the OSRP reflects local needs and priorities while leveraging existing data from other municipal plans.

The sale of a property on Orchard Street, under Chapter 61A classification, was also a focal point. The committee deliberated the town’s right of first refusal and the potential involvement of Essex County Greenbelt in conserving part of the parcel. Concerns were raised about the town’s preparedness for such developments, with calls for proactive engagement across committees and boards.

Finally, the committee addressed the broader context of land conservation, highlighting the need for a land bank and conservation funds. It was noted that the town currently lacks the resources to capitalize on conservation opportunities, prompting a call for partnerships and grant exploration. The conversation touched on past land use challenges, emphasizing the importance of learning from previous experiences to inform future strategies.