The Greenway Committee’s chair, Aaron Tosher, provided a detailed presentation on the initiative to convert an abandoned rail corridor into a multi-use trail for walking, biking, skiing, and other non-motorized activities. The project aims to bridge a critical gap between East Hampton and Westfield, integrating into a broader network of trails across Massachusetts and Connecticut. Tosher reported recent milestones, including a successful information session attended by around 120 people in November 2023. The next update is expected in 2025, with engineering completion projected for 2026 and construction slated for fiscal year 2028. The project has received additional funding through an ARPA grant, estimated between $10,000 and $135,000, to support engineering costs.

However, the committee faces significant challenges, particularly concerning parking along the trail corridor. There is minimal adjacent property available for parking, which is critical for accessibility, especially for disabled users and families. Despite the expressed need for parking, requests for additional funding to research parking solutions have not been awarded. A specific culvert between Coleman Road and Gun Road also requires major repair, with hopes that the state construction budget will cover the costs. Additionally, the committee decided against accommodating equestrian use due to safety concerns and local horse owners’ input.

During the discussion, Select Board members raised questions about parking standards and provisions, emphasizing the importance of ensuring safety and accessibility. The conversation revealed that parking limitations, particularly on Coleman Road, have reached capacity due to property line constraints. The projected construction timeline was another point of concern, with initial expectations set earlier than fiscal year 2028.

In a related discussion, Mark Casses from the Greenway Committee highlighted the financial implications of delays. Initially approved for $6.8 million in 2027, the project’s cost has ballooned to $16.8 million, leading to its exclusion from the proposed TIP for 2028. The board acknowledged the need for stronger advocacy to secure necessary funding.

The meeting also delved into staffing issues within the Water Department, particularly following a resignation attributed to slow hiring processes. A department head expressed frustration over the prolonged vacancy, emphasizing the critical nature of the water department’s work and the challenges in attracting qualified candidates. The discussion revealed that the department had been functioning with reduced staff for over two years, and the resignation of a dedicated employee has further complicated staffing efforts.

The board discussed the compensation structure and equity related to the water department’s staffing, recognizing the competitive nature of hiring in the water sector. The recent hire of a new technician with a starting salary of $30.83 per hour was noted. However, concerns were raised about the adequacy of the current pay scale in attracting suitable candidates.

There was a consensus on the need for a more flexible and contemporary approach to human resources management, including the possibility of hiring a part-time human resources professional to streamline the hiring process. The importance of performance reviews and a consistent framework for compensation and employee benefits was emphasized, with suggestions for a 360-degree evaluation system to provide a well-rounded perspective on employee performance.

The board also addressed various park improvement projects, with the Park Commission reporting on the completion of the Magic for MD playground, resurfacing of tennis and basketball courts at Conan Park, and ongoing construction of the splash pad. The need for additional funding sources for these projects was highlighted, along with updates on the conditions of playing surfaces at Lab Field and collaboration with the Southwick Youth Athletic Association for field enhancements.

Further discussions included town appointments, such as Andrew Shepard’s approval for a full-time position in the water department and Cynthia Woodward’s appointment as the assistant town clerk. The board also approved a new COA director, emphasizing the importance of proper staffing and qualifications for these roles.

The meeting concluded with updates on various ongoing matters, including the town’s compensation plan, grant opportunities, and the categorization and management of town properties. The board recognized the complexities involved in managing town assets and the need for careful consideration of existing trust funds and their potential integration into a new management structure.