The most discussion revolved around a tree removal program proposed by National Grid. Joe Kingforry from National Grid’s enhanced vegetation management program presented the necessity of removing over 100 hazardous trees along an eight-mile stretch, including a spruce and a birch tree on school property. The removal aims to enhance the reliability of electric service, addressing poor conditions and potential hazards posed by primarily Ash trees. The board unanimously voted to authorize the removal, emphasizing the importance of maintaining safety and reliability in the community’s electric infrastructure.

Following the tree hearing, the board shifted focus to Senator Joe Kord’s visit, where he was lauded for his advocacy for rural towns. Kord addressed concerns related to local education budgets and shared insights on a controversial Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) cutting plan. The plan, which has raised environmental concerns due to its clear-cutting approach, prompted the board to consider a collaborative dialogue with DCR to advocate for more selective cutting methods. Kord highlighted the importance of early engagement with the DCR to ensure the town’s environmental and recreational interests are considered.

The board also explored the topic of regionalization of town services, particularly police services. The complexities and financial burdens of training and hiring full-time officers were discussed in light of a police reform law that could potentially alleviate some costs through funding local police training at Greenfield Community College. However, skepticism about the reliability of state funding for regional services lingered, given past experiences of unmet promises, like school transportation funding.

Concerns about climate resilience and sustainability projects surfaced, with discussions highlighting the difficulties rural towns face in accessing competitive grants. The Municipal Vulnerability Program (MVP) was identified as a tool that needs reevaluation to better serve rural communities like Shutesbury, which has struggled to secure funding for stormwater management and clean energy projects. The need for more accessible funding and support for rural regions was echoed throughout the conversation.

Education funding challenges were a major focus, with the board addressing the impact of Chapter 70 funding and the Student Opportunity Act (SOA) on local schools. Concerns about the insufficient state support for rural and declining enrollment districts were raised, alongside the disproportionate burden of special education costs on these communities. The board emphasized the importance of advocating for increased rural school funding and legislative changes to address these inequities.

Additionally, the board discussed the renewal of a Class 3 license for Clark Auto, the appointment of Bill Parker to the building committee, and an appeal of a rejected general bylaw concerning energy storage systems.

Infrastructure discussions included the potential installation of electric vehicle (EV) chargers in town, a project supported by the Energy Advisory Committee (EAC) to enhance community infrastructure for zero-emission vehicles. The board also dealt with procedural matters related to the Shutesbury Athletic Club’s beverage license renewal, emphasizing the need for thorough compliance and effective communication.

Administrative topics included the potential title change from “administrative secretary” to “administrative assistant,” reflecting a broader scope of responsibilities. The board discussed the importance of having a consistent presence at town hall to improve operations and service delivery, with a proposal for a 32-hour workweek to address customer service needs.