The meeting opened with a public hearing centered on the Eversource and Barzan New England proposal for underground conduits and cables on Manhan Road. The board emphasized the importance of involving local residents and various departments in discussions to ensure a comprehensive approach. Although contact was made with Eversource representatives, a full meeting with all stakeholders had not yet been scheduled, prompting the board to delay the hearing until February 18, 2025. The Town Administrator expressed optimism about arranging this meeting soon, stressing the necessity of solidifying plans and gathering input from the community.

Parallel to infrastructure discussions, attention was given to the Norse School control system project, nearing completion under the Green Communities Grant. This initiative involves the installation of final valves and aims to enhance energy efficiency across several town buildings, including the library, town hall, and police department. Completion of this project will enable the town to pursue further funding opportunities under the grant program, propelling additional green initiatives in Southampton.

Another infrastructure project that received attention was the forthcoming public input meetings for the College Highway project. The board is promoting a combination of virtual and in-person sessions to engage diverse community groups, with the first meeting for abutters and business owners scheduled for January 27.

Budget preparations dominated a substantial portion of the meeting. The board discussed the ongoing challenges with regional school budgets and the broader fiscal outlook for FY 25. The board is engaged in finalizing the budget and certifying free cash, hoping to address previous staffing issues that have complicated budget processes. Future budget hearings are scheduled over three days, with an emphasis on accommodating member availability and prioritizing larger departments later in the process.

In grant-related news, the board celebrated the fire chief’s success in securing a $15,461.20 grant from the Department of Fire Services for safety equipment. The board is also preparing applications for a community compact grant and another round of municipal fiber funding, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance town infrastructure and services.

The hazard mitigation plan update was another key topic, crucial for accessing specific grants. While initially intended as a final meeting, an additional session was deemed necessary to address outstanding tasks. The board underscored the importance of timely updates, given the requirement to revise the plan every five years.

The Select Board also reviewed updates from various committees, including the Open Space Committee and Housing Authority. The Open Space Committee discussed the Mountain Waters project and the potential involvement of Kestrel Land Trust, while the Housing Authority focused on progress on College Highway for a Habitat for Humanity house. The Conservation Commission’s inactivity due to a lack of volunteers was noted, highlighting the need for new members to maintain compliance with environmental regulations.

Amendments to bylaws, particularly those concerning the use of public buildings and swimming pool safety, were also on the agenda. Proposed changes aim to streamline the application process for using town facilities and update safety standards for swimming pools to align with Massachusetts regulations. The board is seeking public feedback on these drafts before formal approval.

The meeting further involved discussions on employee compensation, the potential creation of a Human Resources department, and the implementation of a structured performance review system. A motion was passed to adjust salary steps for certain non-union employees, effective January 13. The board also extended support for an energy manager grant initiated by Westhampton, aimed at increasing energy efficiency in regional schools and potentially municipal buildings.

Finally, preparations for the town’s 250th anniversary were discussed, with events planned for February and March, including a Valentine’s music bingo and trivia night. The board is encouraging community engagement and ideas for additional celebrations.