The meeting opened with a presentation from the Lake Wyola Storm Water Erosion Task Force, led by Jennifer, addressing the ongoing erosion issues impacting Lake Wyola. Emphasizing a collaborative approach, Jennifer shared visuals illustrating how the task force worked over the past year and a half, conducting field walks and identifying key areas contributing to sedimentation. The task force, she noted, operated on the principle that erosion is a community concern, not just a municipal or private issue. Financial limitations were a challenge for the Lake Wyola Association, despite their investments in capital improvements. A coordinated stormwater management plan was identified as necessary, given that homeowners often apply DIY solutions without considering their broader environmental impact.

The task force recommended hydrological and geomorphic studies of Fiskbrook, which would include private lands, not just municipal properties. They were awaiting the outcome of a grant application with the rural development fund to finance these studies. If the grant did not materialize, additional funding would be necessary. The presentation underscored the need for public education sessions and a coordinated stormwater management maintenance process. As the task force’s charge was concluding, questions arose about integrating the findings into town operations. Jennifer thanked FURCOG for their support and emphasized the importance of fostering partnerships among stakeholders.

Board discussions revealed an inclination to evolve the task force into a standing committee, given the issues and potential for ongoing work. Recommendations included creating conceptual solutions and preparing sketches to facilitate funding applications for necessary infrastructure projects. Concerns about short-term maintenance projects were raised, with recommendations from the Franklin Regional Council of Governments highlighted as needing attention. This included collaborating with the highway department on maintenance efforts, considered urgent but distinct from broader engineering studies.

The meeting also addressed a beaver dam issue on Lake View. The board discussed whether the task force should continue in a second phase as a standing committee or merge with another existing group. Recognizing the lack of an existing committee to adequately address stormwater issues, there was a suggestion to create a dedicated stormwater committee, building on the task force’s foundation.

Funding was a topic, with hopes pinned on a potential rural development fund grant. Without necessary financing, the ability to carry out proposed plans would be hindered.

The board also examined the community choice aggregation initiative. With over 200 Massachusetts communities implementing similar programs, the board considered two recommendations, one of which included a default product meeting the state’s green energy requirements. A key debate centered around renewable energy credits (RECs), with some noting that purchasing RECs does not lead to new green energy creation. An alternative compliance payment option was mentioned as a method to meet green energy requirements. The board was urged to consider a 100% green energy option for residents wanting to maximize their environmental impact.

The recommended default product proposed a 63% green energy component, surpassing National Grid’s offerings. The urgency of voting to move forward with the recommended products was emphasized, as it would allow Colonial, the broker, to proceed with contacting vendors and implementing the program. The aggregation process involved a tight decision-making timeline, with a deadline set for executable pricing and a follow-up meeting scheduled to evaluate submissions.

Additionally, the board discussed the appointment of a part-time police officer, Jill Dancra, recommended by Acting Chief Devon Peliter. Dancra’s experience with the New Salem Police Department was noted as an asset for the community. The board unanimously approved her appointment.