The board approved a proposal from East Coast Renewable Energy (ECR) to install two level two EV charging stations at no cost to the town, funded by a grant from National Grid. ECR representative Nick Valor presented the details, emphasizing that the installation and additional labor costs would be fully covered, making it a financially advantageous opportunity for Shutesbury. Valor highlighted the potential for generating approximately $10,000 in annual revenue if eight vehicles charge daily, offering profit-sharing arrangements with the town ranging from 25% to 50%, depending on the town’s marketing efforts.

Concerns were voiced about the variability of the profit-sharing percentage, leading to discussions about the conditions that could affect the final agreement. Valor explained that marketing efforts by the town, such as signage and online promotion, would influence the revenue share. The board also explored potential maintenance costs associated with town-owned chargers, but Valor assured that maintenance needs were minimal and that ECR would handle any associated costs, providing financial transparency through regular statements.

The strategic placement of these chargers was another focus, with suggestions to install them at municipal sites like the police and fire stations to support a growing fleet of electric municipal vehicles. Valor expressed willingness to conduct a site visit to determine optimal locations.

In parallel, the board continued a discussion on safety concerns at Lake Wyola, following a well-attended public forum. The forum, which drew approximately 79 in-person attendees and 139 online participants, focused on boating and swimming safety. The nine-member committee established last fall is tasked with reviewing bylaws and proposing educational initiatives to enhance lake safety. Concerns about potential bylaw changes, such as banning motorboats, sparked debate among attendees and board members, who highlighted the importance of balancing safety with traditional lake activities.

Suggestions included scheduling different times for various lake activities to accommodate all users while prioritizing safety. The board recognized the need to align current bylaws with state regulations and agreed that a thoughtful approach to any amendments was essential. Discussions underscored the importance of data collection over the summer to inform future decisions, rather than making hasty bylaw adjustments based on anecdotal evidence.

Additional topics covered during the meeting included the implementation of a new procurement card policy to streamline town purchases, addressing past challenges with credit access and avoiding personal financial liabilities for town employees. The policy introduces a $2,000 spending limit, which has already led to logistical challenges, such as splitting larger orders. The board unanimously approved the policy, acknowledging its necessity for efficient financial management.

The board also reviewed updates from the stormwater erosion task force, which is working with the Franklin Regional Council of Governments (Furcog) to secure funding for a hydraulic and geomorphic study in the Fiskbrook area. This initiative aims to address stormwater issues, with plans for public education workshops to engage the community.

Another agenda item involved a proposal to remove the Shutesbury Farm and Forest Commission bylaw due to inactivity, which was supported by the board members present. Additionally, the board expressed support for an act related to the Quabbin watershed and regional equity, proposing a $35 million annual trust fund to replace payments in lieu of taxes.

As the meeting concluded, logistical discussions about upcoming meetings and the police chief’s contract review were addressed. The town administrator provided updates on staffing challenges due to the impending retirement of a key assessor, emphasizing the urgency of finding a replacement to maintain town operations.