The discussion of new bylaws took a central role, with the board considering a pioneering bylaw written by the planning board focused on the regulation of energy storage systems to protect public health, welfare, and safety, particularly regarding lithium-ion batteries. This move was notable due to the absence of similar bylaws in other communities and included feedback from the town attorney. In conjunction with this, another proposed bylaw aimed at minimizing light pollution, light trespass, and unnecessary glare was deliberated. This bylaw is intended to encourage residents to resolve outdoor illumination disputes independently before escalating them to the select board, and it encompasses provisions for dispute resolution and enforcement.

Furthermore, the board engaged in a far-reaching discussion on the topic of granting voting rights to noncitizens. This is a significant measure that reflects a broader national conversation about the definition and rights of community membership. The potential implications of such a measure, including the extent of these voting rights and how they would be implemented, were considered.

The meeting also delved into issues surrounding the town’s infrastructural and environmental management. This included a request from the highway department for a new generator crucial for maintaining consistent power during storms. The finance committee’s recommendation to treat the gravel road budget as a capital item due to budget constraints underscored the fiscal considerations entwined with municipal projects.

On the environmental front, the select board reviewed a citizen petition that sought to empower municipalities to regulate the construction of large-scale solar installations. The intent behind this petition is to preserve natural landscapes and protect water supplies, highlighting the growing concern over the environmental impact of energy infrastructure.

In addition to these discussions, the select board examined several amendments to zoning bylaws, including changes to the use table, the re-introduction of associate members on the planning board, and the review criteria for special permits. The importance of maintaining safety standards was illustrated by the discussion on the fire inspection of the town hall and the necessity to extend the fire alarm system throughout the building.

The board also addressed the removal of historic relics from the town hall. Air quality tests were also a topic of concern, along with the mention of a potential class action suit against manufacturers, although details on this matter were not expanded upon.

Moreover, the meeting covered upcoming budget concerns, police union negotiations, and initiatives toward the electrification of vehicles. The board’s consideration of adopting the opt-in stretch code was deliberated, with its implications for the upcoming town meeting in mind.

This discussion extended to comparing fees with other towns and considering the allocation of collected fees for conservation-related expenses. Additionally, the board reviewed the first draft of the annual town meeting warrant, which included various articles on budget estimates and capital items, such as funding for the elementary school renovation and a new pickup truck cruiser for the police department.