The most pressing topic of the Shutesbury Select Board meeting was the approval of an easement for National Grid, which is a critical step in facilitating power line access for the new library construction. The board reviewed the easement details. The motion to approve the easement was passed without objections.

Another major focus was the planning of a public forum to discuss the Lake Wola bylaw, prompted by safety concerns raised by Chief Burgess. Numerous emails from concerned community members highlighted the need for open dialogue. The board aimed to hold the forum before the upcoming town meeting, agreeing on March 13 as a suitable date, considering logistical elements like the venue and moderator. The forum will allow for presentations on current bylaws and community concerns before opening the floor for discussion, emphasizing the importance of community feedback, especially regarding potential bylaw changes.

The board also addressed the disbandment of the Broadband Committee following a recommendation due to its successful completion of its original mission. Established in 2014, the committee’s efforts led to the creation of an elected Municipal Light Plant board in 2017. With most tasks now handled by the MLP board, the committee’s dissolution marks the end of its formal responsibilities, though Craig Martin expressed interest in remaining informally involved.

Town Administrator updates included discussing a contract with CAI Technologies for mapping services, which the board approved due to its low cost and routine nature. The board also reviewed the process for hiring a new Town Administrator, scheduling final interviews to include public participation, and debating whether deliberations should be public or held in executive session.

Building maintenance issues were a concern, highlighted by problems with the town hall elevator’s control board, affecting accessibility. The repair cost was noted at approximately $5,000, and the board emphasized the urgency of addressing these issues to ensure compliance with ADA standards. Other maintenance discussions included potential renovations to the town hall, such as soundproofing and improving the meeting room’s acoustics, with funding constraints acknowledged as a challenge.

Budgetary matters were another key topic, with discussions on the dramatic increase in health insurance costs and retirement assessments impacting the town’s financial planning. The board underscored the need for careful budget review ahead of meetings with the finance committee.