During the meeting, the most pressing matter was the 2025 tax classification hearing. Denise Ellis presented the details, emphasizing the importance of this annual process in determining the town’s tax rate. The board considered whether to maintain the current split tax rate of 1.05 or adjust it. This decision involved a analysis of property categories: residential, open space, commercial, industrial, and personal property. The board ultimately chose to retain the existing tax rate, citing consistency and the successful growth of the industrial base as influential factors. Ellis explained that the current residential tax rate stands at approximately $13 per thousand, while the commercial and industrial rate is $13.82. If the rate were increased to 1.10, these would shift to $12.84 and $14.48, respectively. Board members expressed a preference for avoiding an increased burden on local businesses, with one member noting a desire to maintain the balance between competitiveness and community growth.

The board also addressed several tax exemptions, including a residential exemption aimed at providing tax relief to principal homeowners. After some procedural confusion, the board voted against implementing the residential exemption. Similarly, discussions on the small commercial exemption and an open space discount resulted in votes against any changes, maintaining the status quo from the previous fiscal year. The absence of qualifying open space in Norton rendered the latter moot.

License transfers were another key focus of the meeting. The board approved a change in ownership for pH Norton Incorporated’s all-alcohol beverage license and a transfer application for a section 12 on-premises common Vic license from Norton Jade LLC to Sky South Sea North Incorporated. Discussions included detailed reviews of managerial experience and proposed changes, such as Sunday operating hours for the latter. The board’s approval of these transfers underscored their commitment to ensuring smooth business operations while considering community needs.

In community engagement efforts, the board highlighted the upcoming Wreaths Across America event, scheduled for December 14. Pat Tarantino, volunteer location coordinator, detailed the event’s history and significance, urging community participation in honoring veterans by laying wreaths at their graves. Additionally, the Norton holiday toy drive was promoted, with local businesses supporting the initiative to collect unwrapped toys for distribution. These initiatives reflect the board’s focus on fostering community spirit and involvement.

Further discussions included the scheduling of the spring annual town meeting, set for May 19, 2025, at Norton High School. Concerns about potential scheduling conflicts with the school and the lengthy timeframe for article submissions were raised, leading to an agreement to revisit the finalization of the date. The board also addressed surplus items from the Highway and Police Departments, approving the declaration of various equipment as surplus to streamline departmental resource management.

Infrastructure improvements were discussed through the review of a grant of easement request concerning existing utility wires. A National Grid representative elaborated on plans to install fiber optic cables, and the board approved the easement to enhance local infrastructure efficiency. Additionally, the board accepted a deed from Mary Ellen Vincent for a parcel of land aimed at flood hazard mitigation and open space preservation, receiving support from relevant committees.

The meeting also involved routine license renewals for various business operations, including victualer and lodging house permits, along with taxi and limousine licenses. These approvals were contingent on compliance with tax obligations and other stipulations.