The meeting began with a public hearing on a petition filed by Horizon New England, which sought approval for the installation of a jointly owned utility pole on North Lumis Street. This proposed addition aimed to reduce the distance between existing poles and elevate cables to enhance telecommunications and electric current transmission. However, due to a scheduling conflict with a Verizon representative, the hearing was postponed and scheduled to continue on November 10, 2025. Residents adjacent to the proposed site had been informed of this postponement by mail.

Following the hearing, the board received an update from Joe Mitchell, an assistant general manager at Westfield Gas and Electric. Mitchell briefed the board on the company’s infrastructure and emergency response strategies. Westfield Gas and Electric, responsible for the gas distribution network in Westfield, also oversees infrastructure in Southwick. Mitchell highlighted the company’s public awareness initiative, designed to inform residents within 200 feet of their infrastructure about gas safety and emergency contacts. He noted confusion among residents regarding which gas company to contact in case of gas odors, emphasizing the distinct roles of Westfield Gas and Electric, Eversource, and Tennessee Gas Pipeline.

Mitchell elaborated on the emergency response plan, which categorizes incidents into three levels based on customer impact, and outlined the reporting procedures to agencies such as the National Response Center and the Department of Public Utilities. A recent audit by the Department of Public Utilities praised the emergency programs but called for improved communication with local officials. The board acknowledged the importance of these updates, given the critical role of gas infrastructure in public safety.

The board then addressed a proposal concerning snowplow contractor rates for the upcoming winter. A letter from Rich Boza requested the maintenance of the previous season’s rates and sought permission to secure applications and insurance certificates for contractors. The board expressed general agreement and made a motion to keep the rates unchanged.

In personnel matters, the board considered the rehire of Shane Hope as a full-time firefighter EMT. Hope, previously employed in the department, is currently training for a paramedic certification. His rehire was acknowledged without opposition, with a formal motion made and seconded. The board also discussed Christa DS, who returned to the department as a paramedic after completing her orientation. Her appointment was unanimously supported.

The board then shifted focus to the Open Space Committee, introducing two candidates for appointment. Arthur Kane, with extensive experience in wildlife biology and resource management, and Martha Kane, with a background in parks and recreation, both expressed their desire to contribute to the community. The board moved to formally appoint both candidates, who were advised to be sworn in at the town clerk’s office.

Attention turned to the Economic Development Commission, where the resignation of Jack John Cody was noted. Acknowledging a series of recent resignations, the board proposed reducing the commission’s size from nine voting members to five, with two associate members. This change aimed to ensure the commission’s functionality and allow flexibility for future growth. The board discussed the necessity of staggering member terms to maintain continuity and considered reorganization to align with the new structure.

The meeting also touched upon updates to the town’s master plan, with discussions on actions and strategies recommended by the conservation commission. A proposed climate change action involved organizing educational workshops, though the commission suggested this initiative might be better suited for a future climate change committee. The board debated whether to assign these educational efforts to the library or wait until a dedicated committee is formed, considering the library’s capacity to independently pursue such initiatives.

Finally, the board acknowledged administrative matters, including the hiring of Julie Betty as the new DPW manager. Additionally, they discussed the clerical union’s proposal to combine two half-days into a full closure on the day after Christmas, which would be reviewed in a future meeting. The board also reviewed minutes from previous meetings, making adjustments for clarity and agreeing to refer to full recordings where necessary.