A major highlight of the meeting was the board’s approval of agreements related to the interconnection of solar panels and battery storage with National Grid. The board, representing the town as a “host customer,” discussed the completion of necessary prior steps, such as easements and polls, to facilitate this project. The agreements outlined conditions for sharing excess energy generated by the solar setup, with a focus on reducing usage during peak times. This arrangement could yield incentive credits on the town’s electric bills. The motion to execute these agreements was made, seconded, and passed unanimously.

The board also focused on the appointment of Bert Schwarz to the Energy and Climate Action Committee (EAC). Schwarz, who had demonstrated a longstanding commitment to environmental issues, expressed interest in joining the committee after participating in recent meetings. The board approved his appointment without opposition.

Additionally, the board addressed the appointment of Michael Pill to the Shutesbury Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA). Pill’s nomination was supported due to his previous contributions, including writing subdivision regulations. The board unanimously approved his appointment, ensuring the ZBA could continue its work effectively, despite the recent resignation of a member.

The letter regarding the Quin Watershed was another focal point. The board expressed support for legislative follow-ups and unanimously voted to send a letter endorsing Senate Bill 828 and House Bill 2773. The letter was to be based on materials from Joe Comerford and highlight the town’s relationship with the water supply, including concerns about inadequate compensation and potential future public water needs.

In a strategic move, the board discussed the potential application for Rural Development Opportunity Grants. Though Shutesbury had never applied for these grants, they identified two areas of interest: pre-development work for municipal buildings and engineering for road and bridge design. The board acknowledged the importance of expressing interest in these grants to receive feedback on project proposals and discussed the potential alignment of existing stormwater reports with grant criteria.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the timing of the annual town meeting, originally scheduled for April 26. Concerns arose about its overlap with school vacation, potentially affecting participation from school families and the finance committee’s budget preparations. The board debated and reached a consensus to propose May 31 as the new meeting date, with June 7 as a fallback option, pending consultation with the finance committee and other stakeholders.

The board also planned an upcoming public forum on Lake Wola, set for March 27. Discussions revolved around ensuring public access, particularly for those unable to attend in person. Online participation was considered, despite past technical challenges, and strategies for managing online questions were discussed.

Furthermore, the board touched on a request from Pineapple Express to deliver cannabis products within the town. This request was tabled for further consideration, as the town currently restricts food deliveries, necessitating a broader policy discussion on cannabis delivery services.

The board also addressed snow and ice budget overruns, noting a $1,459.40 excess due to recent weather conditions. They voted to authorize this over-expenditure, which is within town regulations.