The meeting began with Hannah Morgenson of the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission presenting the Hazard Mitigation Plan, which had received approvals from both FEMA and the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency. Morgenson emphasized the importance of such plans, which are prerequisites for accessing federal funding for disaster mitigation projects. The plan involves a comprehensive assessment of natural hazards and proposes strategies to minimize associated risks through detailed actions and projects.

Morgenson highlighted the collaborative efforts of ten communities, including Newbury, in crafting this regional plan. The plan outlines detailed components such as hazard identification and risk assessment, and it incorporates feedback from local departments, including emergency management, police, fire, and health services. A question was raised regarding FEMA’s financial capacity to support grant programs in light of recent natural disasters. Morgenson clarified that while specifics for the 2025 funding cycle were not yet available, adopting the plan would enable the community to apply for non-emergency funding opportunities.

The select board expressed appreciation for the extensive work put into the planning process. Formal adoption of the plan requires a select board vote and a resolution signed by the chair, with the deadline for adoption set for January 13th.

In other business, the board swiftly approved one-day liquor licenses for Ipswich Brewery and the 1634 Metery for upcoming events, including a Christmas tree chipping event. These approvals were part of routine procedures, with all necessary documentation confirmed as in order.

The board addressed the renewal of retail liquor licenses for 2025, discussing procedural details and specific licenses, such as those for D&J Liquor and Plum Island Fine Wine and Spirits. Concerns were raised about licensing implications for businesses operating across multiple locations, particularly regarding liability issues if patrons move alcoholic beverages between sites. The board concluded that such concerns were outside the scope of the current agenda, focusing instead on approving licenses tied to specific addresses.

The meeting also covered various town projects. Updates included the completion of the Plum Island Bridge Project, the commencement of the Lower Green Schoolhouse window replacement, and the status of the Central Street playground, slated for completion in the spring. The Town Administrator reported on ongoing initiatives, including the C Farm trail project, library roof replacement, and culvert installation, noting delays caused by unexpected challenges such as larger-than-expected boulders and king tides.

A notable point of discussion involved a financial request from the Department of Public Works (DPW) to allocate funds for new LED solar-powered school signs. The board had previously set aside funds for schoolhouse windows, and after accepting a lower-than-expected bid, approximately $27,000 remained available. The board approved the DPW’s proposal to use $2,588 for the school signs, with the remainder allocated for moving expenses related to the Town Hall transition.

Concerns were brought up about the historical commission’s decision on window replacements, particularly the choice of the lowest bid. Assurance was given that reviews and reference checks had been conducted to ensure reliability.

The meeting touched on correspondence from several entities, including the Triton Regional School District and Xfinity, discussing fiscal assessments and pricing changes, respectively. A letter from the Wood Regional Vocational Technical High School addressed the initial steps in replacing their wastewater treatment plant, highlighting the need for community support and potential partnerships with Northern Essex Community College.