The meeting began with an update on the elementary school’s oil spill incident. The leak was traced to a failed gasket on a fuel supply pump, occurring during an attempt to pump out water. Quick containment measures were implemented, and licensed professionals from environmental agencies were brought in to oversee the cleanup. Remediation efforts included vacuum extraction of the oil-water mixture, soil excavation, and the use of absorbent booms. A tightness test confirmed the integrity of the school’s underground storage tank. Although the spill posed no immediate threat to drinking water, additional precautionary testing for nearby properties was planned. The board discussed temporary measures to prevent further water infiltration and considered long-term solutions, such as transitioning to an above-ground tank system. While costs related to the incident were still being gathered, the need for a permanent prevention strategy was underscored.

Another part of the meeting focused on the fiscal year 2027 budget proposal, totaling $8,338,475—a 7.45% increase from the previous year. This increase reflects additional expenses amounting to $578,188, with the average single-family tax bill expected to rise by $500. The board highlighted certain mitigating factors, including lower-than-expected health insurance cost increases and minimal hikes in regional school assessments. However, there were notable budget increases for the elementary school due to out-of-district placements, the highway department for machinery maintenance, and snow removal. Debt service costs also surged, driven by borrowing for a new library and related projects. To alleviate the fiscal burden, the board proposed using $200,000 from free cash reserves to cover certain expenses, including contributions to health insurance and other operational costs.

Dam safety emerged as another topic, especially after recent repairs raised concerns among board members. Discussions highlighted frustrations over the perceived inefficiency of past repairs and the need for better long-term planning to address recurring issues. Safety around the dam was emphasized, with reminders about avoiding unstable ground and wearing appropriate footwear. The board acknowledged the necessity of a comprehensive capital plan to manage such projects effectively. This plan would include strategic priorities and better financial foresight, contrasting with the current reactive approach. The board is seeking grants to address safety concerns and stabilize the dam, with a focus on minimizing impacts on the lake’s water levels.

The Select Board also addressed the restructuring of the stormwater erosion committee, proposing a reduction to five members with diverse representation. This streamlining aims to attract more participants and enhance the committee’s efficiency. Additionally, the community choice aggregation program was celebrated for its success in saving residents $7,200 collectively. The town’s designation as a climate leader opens up potential grant opportunities for future projects, furthering its environmental initiatives.

In terms of community engagement, the board discussed the “Friday 5” initiative, which aims to improve communication with residents through social media. Initial posts received significant engagement. The initiative seeks to foster a routine of residents checking for updates directly from the town.

The meeting concluded with discussions about the fiscal implications of capital expenditures, particularly concerning a new fire truck and other budget items. The need for a coordinated financial strategy and prioritization of capital projects was emphasized.