Colleen Mayor from the planning department presented the case for merging the two boards, noting the stark disparity in application volume. The Board of Adjustment processed 62 applications in 2023, increasing to 67 in 2024, while the Planning Board only handled 10 applications in 2023 and 14 in 2024. This imbalance has resulted in a lack of business for the Planning Board, sometimes leading to meetings that last less than five minutes. Colleen attributed some of these challenges to the departure of a key member named Jeff, whose absence impacted the board’s functioning.

The proposed merger aims to streamline operations by combining the boards, allowing for more applications to be processed in a single meeting. Currently, the Board of Adjustment meets once a month, whereas the Planning Board often has minimal business. The new structure would involve a unified board meeting twice a month, potentially reducing wait times for residents seeking approvals.

Colleen outlined the composition of the proposed unified board, which would consist of nine members and up to four alternates. The current Planning Board has nine members with two alternates, while the Board of Adjustment has seven regular members. This consolidation would inevitably mean some current members may not retain their positions. Concerns were raised about ensuring enough committed members to sustain the board’s function. Colleen noted that attendance had improved, addressing previous issues with members not showing up.

A council member highlighted that merging the boards might shift dynamics, as workloads would double. The challenge of maintaining a quorum during meetings was discussed, with suggestions that effective chairmanship could manage scheduling and member commitments. Colleen mentioned the possibility of organizing meetings to accommodate complex cases without requiring special sessions, a practice they had tried before by stacking less complicated cases to streamline the agenda.

The council expressed a general willingness to consider the merger, emphasizing the importance of community input. They acknowledged the seasonal fluctuations in application volume, with more activity during cooler months compared to the summer when construction often slows down. The council reached a consensus on the need for further exploration and a commitment to inform the public about the upcoming referendum, allowing residents to voice their opinions on the matter.

In addition to the discussion on board consolidation, the meeting also addressed the town’s budget for 2025. The finance officer presented the budget overview, highlighting a projected $1.2 million revenue shortfall due to the loss of federal ARPA funds and state aid. However, new revenue sources, such as hotel fees, were introduced to offset financial gaps. The budget would increase by approximately $1.9 million, leading to an average homeowner’s tax increase of about $144 annually.

Public engagement in the budget discussion was minimal, with one resident expressing concern over the lack of community outreach and engagement. The resident criticized the council for insufficient communication and suggested more proactive measures, such as robocalls or website updates, to inform residents. Concerns were also raised about the cost of maintaining the golf course and the SPCA, as well as legal fees related to affordable housing.

The meeting also featured the swearing-in of new police officers and the recognition of two retiring captains. Chief Santino introduced the new officers and thanked the retiring members for their dedication and service to the community.

In a lighter moment, Deputy Mayor Fischer announced the return of Super Bowl champion Kenny Picket for the second annual Punt, Pass, and Picket event. Councilman Weinstein updated attendees on the economic development committee’s initiatives, including a workshop for small businesses and environmental activities aimed at enhancing community engagement.