The proposed task force, backed by several environmental studies, is intended to address stormwater runoff and erosion hotspots threatening Lake Wyola. The board deliberated on the task force’s scope, membership, and potential overlap with existing efforts. The studies cited, including a stormwater management study from 2007, a wildlife habitat evaluation in 2019, a community resilience building study in 2020, and a draft study by Furog, provided a backdrop for the urgency of the task force’s mission. The task force’s mandate would be to identify and prioritize projects, seek funding, and collaborate with stakeholders. A notable contribution to the debate was George Mark’s support for the proposed approach. The board also discussed the structure of the task force and its direct reporting line, with a proposal to draft its structure for review at the next meeting.

The meeting addressed a New York-based company’s proposal to install supercharging stations at no cost to the town. The Select Board weighed the benefits against potential issues, such as the impact on handicap spots, grant funding, and the necessity of having multiple locations. The feasibility and cost implications of the proposal spurred a debate.

Another discussion revolved around the response to an open meeting law complaint, which involved an executive session that failed to identify the litigating party being discussed. The board, concerned about the resource drain and costs associated with such complaints, estimated the expenses to be between $500 and $600. They approved the forwarding of a response letter to the Office of the Attorney General and sought an extension to respond to the complaint.

In personnel matters, the board addressed the resignation of Mary David from the Conservation Commission, Community Preservation Committee, and Library Trustees, expressing gratitude for her service. Additionally, the board voted in favor of the full-time appointment of Ben Field to the Shutesbury Highway Department, acknowledging his qualifications.

The board also deliberated on the logistics and efficiency of the annual town meeting. Discussions included the use of clickers to increase participation, the turnout influenced by weather and agenda, and the costs and challenges of holding the meeting outdoors. There was an agreement to follow up on the clicker discussion and to consider recommendations from a clicker study group.

On administrative matters, the board considered creating a Google Calendar for the town hall staff to manage schedules and debated its access and policy. The technical challenges of hybrid meetings were also on the table, with the board considering upgrades to audiovisual equipment to improve remote participation.

The town administrator provided updates on various issues such as gasoline cleanup, PFAS water contamination, and the installation of a new highway generator. A resident’s inquiry about water testing results and responsibilities in case of contamination was also addressed.

Finally, the board set the schedule for an upcoming Emergency Management meeting and discussed the agenda for the next meeting, which will include planning for the all-boards meeting and the stormwater committee.