The most pressing topic was the exploration of a shared water and septic system between the library and a local church. The church’s existing systems were identified as problematic; the well is shallow and unreliable, and contains low levels of PFAS, while the septic system, though functional, is aging with limited capacity. The church representatives expressed their willingness to collaborate but emphasized the need for a congregational vote for any formal agreements. The board considered the potential need for a deeper well or new installations to ensure a reliable water supply, acknowledging cost and logistical challenges. Information provided by a local hydrogeologist underscored concerns about the well’s reliability due to bedrock proximity and shallow depth. The board recognized the importance of involving a sanitary engineer to assess the feasibility of these options.

Board members also considered the limitations of the existing septic system, which might need expansion or upgrades to comply with regulations if shared usage were to increase. The potential for the septic system to be mounded was noted, requiring further investigation. The board deliberated on the possibility of constructing a new well and septic system specifically for the library, considering the challenges associated with road salt contamination and regulatory constraints, particularly Article 97. The town counsel advised ensuring the feasibility of these actions before incurring legal costs, and emphasized the necessity of securing church cooperation as a first step.

The meeting also addressed broader infrastructure considerations, including potential reorganization of town resources and facilities. A notable discussion focused on the spear building and town hall, examining the feasibility of using the spear building for police operations due to the current inadequacy of space for the police department. The board discussed the potential benefits and costs of relocating the police to the spear building. They agreed on a sequential approach, prioritizing the installation of a bathroom in the spear building to facilitate meetings and activities, followed by a vote on the reorganization of town hall.

The dialogue about the proposed police station in the library vicinity included concerns about compliance with state certification standards and the implications of renovations or changes in building use. The board considered the need for upgrades to meet energy, insulation, and electrical codes, especially if a “gut rehab” was necessary. Discussions encompassed security enhancements, storage capabilities, and the implications of a visible police presence in the community. The board debated the necessity of certain proposed features, considering the frequency of arrests and operational needs.

A planning session with a contractor was proposed to gather comprehensive data on well and septic system feasibility. The board underscored the importance of developing a structured scope of services and planned to secure the contractor’s assistance. They also discussed logistics such as security measures and ventilation in the library.