The meeting’s most discussion revolved around the operational restrictions at Whipple Tree Works, a site under continuous review by the board. The central issue was the debate over prohibiting activities during the winter months, from November 15 to March 15. Concerns were raised about the order of conditions that seemed excessively stringent, particularly regarding the complete ban on winter operations. One member argued for flexibility, suggesting that events like winter craft fairs should not be entirely prohibited, proposing modifications to allow specific activities if safety measures were in place, such as restricting parking behind the barn during snowy conditions.

The board reviewed the draft decision, which had been amended based on recommendations from Town Council. The restrictions were initially imposed due to concerns about the barn’s lack of insulation and access challenges during winter. Members acknowledged the need to consider both safety and operational needs. They discussed modifying the operational language to specify winter months as December 21 through March 21, with a preference for not restricting operations entirely during this period.

Another contentious point was the rock boundary wall around the driveway, which impacted snow storage and fire truck access. The wall, built after renovations and not historically significant, was suggested for removal to allow more snow storage space. The board agreed to amend the language regarding winter operations. This compromise aimed to address both operational flexibility and safety requirements.

In addition to winter operations, the board discussed the approval of food and alcohol service at the site. A participant expressed confusion about whether the approval allowed food vendors to operate on-site, given their business model did not include preparing or selling food. The discussion clarified that the approval document does not serve as a food service permit and does not prohibit food on-site but emphasizes that it does not authorize food service under its terms.

The board then turned to the notice of intent to sell land on Orchard Street, submitted by the estate of BL Bulgaras. The property, spanning 2.57 acres, is proposed for the development of four single-family homes, with the remaining 13.734 acres intended for agricultural use and conservation. The planning board holds a right of first refusal on the property, allowing them to recommend to the select board whether to exercise this right. Given the previously approved subdivision plan, which included housing and agricultural preservation, the board recommended that the select board not exercise this right. A motion to waive the right of first refusal was unanimously approved.

The planning director provided updates on the town’s designation as a Green Community, achieved last spring. This designation opens funding opportunities for energy efficiency projects, such as upgrading the heating and cooling system at Newbury Elementary School, which has not been updated in over 20 years. The director noted that this initiative could improve energy cost efficiency for the town, with future projects potentially including various community improvements.

The board also discussed a meeting with developers regarding a property on Central Street, under the new MBTA multifamily zoning bylaw. Developers are beginning site work and anticipate submitting their proposal soon, expected to include one, two, and three-bedroom units. This aligns with the town’s housing needs, and the board expressed anticipation for the proposal.

Progress was reported on the Caldwell Farm trail project, part of an open space residential subdivision. The public trail is being laid out, and the Department of Public Works will clear the brush to prepare for its opening. Plans for the FY 26 budget and goals were mentioned, with the planning director highlighting the need to summarize FY 24 accomplishments and set new goals, inviting input from board members. The open space recreation plan update was discussed, with alternative avenues considered after a recent grant application was unsuccessful.

Looking ahead, the planning director outlined the agenda for the next meeting on December 4, focusing on workshopping projects rather than permitting issues. The housing production plan, under development for over a year, would be discussed in its final draft form, intending to make a recommendation to the select board for approval. The meeting would also address zoning amendments in preparation for the upcoming annual town meeting.