One item at the meeting was the introduction of a beach cleanup initiative proposed in memory of Rachel Morrison, who passed away in a tragic hit-and-run incident. The initiative aims to honor her memory while promoting environmental stewardship through a beach basket program. Rachel’s family, including her mother, Gene Morrison, and sister, Sarah Morrison, presented the plan, which involves placing two-gallon buckets at various beach locations for public use in collecting litter. Sarah explained that the buckets would be accompanied by informational flyers about Rachel and the initiative, inspired by a similar program in Florida. The family committed to providing all necessary materials and overseeing the program’s maintenance.

Board members inquired about the logistics, discussing potential locations for the buckets and the legal limitations concerning some areas under federal jurisdiction. They expressed support for the initiative, recognizing its dual role in honoring Rachel and enhancing environmental awareness. A motion to accept the beach cleanup initiative was made and seconded, with further discussions anticipated to finalize the specifics.

In new business, the board approved a business license for Banshees LLC, a mobile pop-up pizza operation managed by Allison and Jacqueline Tap. The representatives outlined their plan to bring quality meals to local events, emphasizing the use of locally sourced ingredients and adherence to health regulations. The board discussed logistical aspects such as equipment setup and safety measures before unanimously approving the license. The board also granted permission for Banshees to operate at Manta Field, expressing interest in sampling the pizza at future events.

The board then turned to a license application for a used car dealership, Good Deal Motors, submitted by Dastan Tekb. Tekb presented his extensive experience in the car industry and his plans to establish a dealership at a location with a history of automotive sales. He outlined his strategy to source vehicles from Massachusetts auctions, ensuring compliance with state inspection standards, and providing warranties. The board approved the application, wishing Tekb success in his new venture.

The meeting also covered the issue of regional school funding. A board member reported attending a Chapter 70 listening tour, where concerns about diminishing state aid and the funding formula’s impact on small towns were highlighted. The current formula assesses towns’ ability to pay based on perceived wealth, posing challenges for sustaining school budgets. The board discussed the critical nature of these issues and the need for community support to advocate for changes. Plans to participate in a virtual comment session in November were noted, with ongoing efforts to gather advocacy signatures.

Other topics included the appointment of David Clifford to the Conservation Commission, approval of a public property use request for the Governor’s Academy, and the appointment of representatives to the Regional Agreement Amendment Committee. Updates from the town administrator covered upcoming improvements, job vacancies, and community events, including Halloween activities and preparations for Veterans Day.