02:48The board’s approval of a new utility pole installation, a joint effort by National Grid and Verizon, was a key agenda item. During the poll hearing, a representative plans for the pole’s placement approximately 400 feet west of the intersection of Lever Road and West Pelham Road, between house numbers 210 and 202. The pole is intended to house a recloser, which will enhance service reliability by automatically resetting after power disruptions. The board was reassured that the location would not interfere with residences, as it would be situated in front of woods and a yard. The installation is part of a broader modernization effort to improve service reliability in the area, and abutters have been notified accordingly.

14:46Another prominent topic was the proposed update to the FRCOG charter, which has remained unchanged since its establishment in 1997. A representative from the council explained the necessity for a town meeting vote to address charter amendments at the annual town meeting scheduled for May 31st. The charter, adopted by 26 towns after the abolition of county government, serves as the governing document for the council. The proposed changes aim to reflect the council’s evolution over 27 years. Proposed amendments include clarifications on how towns can join or withdraw from FRCOG and adjustments to the operational guidelines of the Franklin Regional Planning Board, offering greater flexibility by transferring details to the board’s bylaws. Despite these updates, the assessment formula for towns’ contributions remains unchanged. The board expressed satisfaction with the proposed changes and discussed logistics for presenting these at the town meeting, including possibly utilizing digital formats and printed materials.

08:38The board also addressed three zoning bylaw amendments intended for the upcoming town meeting warrant. These included the removal of an outdated article on the rate of growth, the introduction of tiny house regulations, and updates to accessory dwelling unit (ADU) regulations. The planning board representative described the first amendment as a housekeeping measure, the second as aligning local regulations with state guidelines, and the third as an effort to comply with new state regulations to increase affordable housing. The board recognized their role in facilitating the process rather than voting on these matters directly, with the next steps involving preparing a report for the town meeting.

28:30In another significant decision, the board reviewed and ultimately denied a request for an educational incentive credit payment from Chief Burgess. The request involved 31 credit hours that were not part of an active degree program and dated back to 1990-1991, preceding the current contract signed in 2022. A member expressed uncertainty about the appropriateness of the request, given the outdated nature of the credits and the contract’s intent to encourage current educational advancement. A motion to deny the request was seconded and approved by the board.

33:51Additionally, the board approved contracting animal control services with the Franklin County Regional Council of Governments, following the previous dog officer’s inability to meet state certification requirements. This agreement, costing approximately $5,100 per year, ensures access to essential services, including a kennel. The board expressed relief at securing a solution swiftly, emphasizing the importance of allocating sufficient funds for the current and upcoming fiscal years.

35:47In administrative matters, the board appointed Marilyn Mandel as the new recycling coordinator, recognizing her extensive experience and longstanding commitment to the town’s recycling efforts. The town administrator provided updates on various issues, including PAS billing and potential financial opportunities with the Clean Water Trust. Discussions also covered the possibility of installing a “beaver deceiver” to manage a beaver dam issue, weighing the ecological implications against public access for campers.