The appointment of Michael Tul as Constable was a focal point of the meeting. Tul, who has a background as a former select board member and member of the board of assessors, presented his qualifications and expressed a strong commitment to public service. Emphasizing his historical interest in the role, Tul explained that he has engaged with current and former constables to gain insights into the position. He is also a Justice of the Peace and a notary, a combination he noted might be unique in the state. Addressing board members’ concerns about his existing commitments, Tul assured them of his ability to manage the responsibilities. The position is compensated on a per-transaction basis, akin to a notary, with fees ranging from $25 to $50. His appointment was approved unanimously.

Following Tul’s appointment, the board addressed a variety of announcements, including upcoming community events such as a fundraising evening by ANS Little Treasures Incorporated, the Festival of Lights, and Wreaths Across America. These events aim to engage the community through food, music, and commemorative activities. Additionally, a coat drive for kids and families is ongoing at the Town Hall Lobby.

The meeting then transitioned to the discussion of 2025 license renewals. The board reviewed applications from various businesses seeking renewal for licenses, including those related to liquor, live entertainment, and food service. A notable aspect of the licensing discussion was the requirement for businesses such as Satino Tratoria and Sportsman’s Cafe to settle outstanding taxes before their licenses could be approved. Approval was granted for Trans International Autos Incorporated’s Class 2 license on Motor on Old Colony Road without opposition.

Attention then turned to the awarding of a contract for Aquatic Vegetation Management. The town manager outlined the process of securing qualifications for the treatment of local bodies of water, such as the Norton Reservoir and Charles Pond. Wet Water and Wetlands was selected to carry out the treatments, scheduled for the fall and spring, with summer monitoring to assess the need for additional treatments. Queries about the treatment frequency and budget were raised, with confirmation that the budget would accommodate three additional treatments.

Financial matters were also on the agenda, with a report from Audy Advises detailing changes in the town’s Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB) liability. The liability decreased from $67 million to approximately $80.21 million, primarily due to alterations in retiree health insurance plans and assumptions about investment interest rates. The board discussed the significance of these figures, noting an increase in retirees drawing from the plan, which could impact future budgets. It was clarified that these liabilities reflect potential costs should the town cease operations and currently do not affect the operational budget. Furthermore, concerns were voiced regarding the Bristol County Retirement system’s extended timeline for full funding, which might influence available funds for OPEB.

The board members were reminded of the necessity to complete a UAL report, with a deadline set for September. Coordination was needed to arrange schedules for a group photo required for this report. Updates on the ongoing Town Hall renovation were provided, indicating that asbestos removal was in progress, with demolition slated to begin on December 16.