A key highlight of the meeting was the discussion and unanimous support of a SAFER (Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response) grant application by the fire department. This grant, facilitated by FEMA, aims to secure additional funding for staffing, enabling the department to add a fourth firefighter per shift. The fire chief outlined the grant’s importance, noting the alignment with NFPA standards for initial fire response and the town’s improved chances of success due to recent staffing changes. However, the grant now requires a 25% financial commitment from the town in its first two years, a change from the previous 100% coverage. The chief emphasized the urgency of this opportunity, citing uncertainties about future federal funding.

In addition to the SAFER grant, the board delved into road maintenance and improvement plans, sparked by the presentation of the Hillside Road and South Lumis Street paving bid by the DPW director. The lowest bid of $756,580 was submitted by Palmer Paving, aligning with prior estimates. The board approved awarding the contract to Palmer Paving, with work set to begin in the fall following the completion of drainage on Hillside Road. Discussion extended to the broader road improvement strategy, with approximately $1.45 million available from various funding sources for the next round of projects. The DPW director highlighted specific projects, including An Hulcom Road and Gargan Terrace, while acknowledging that the funds would not cover all 45 potential projects outlined.

Board members expressed concerns about project selection criteria, particularly the emphasis on traffic counts over road conditions. Some members advocated for prioritizing heavily trafficked roads like Bing Hills and Granville Roads, while others stressed the need for balance.

The meeting also addressed the potential for milling and paving in-house. With the town possessing limited milling capabilities, board members explored the feasibility of enhancing these resources to manage road maintenance more effectively. A drive-through to evaluate road conditions was proposed.

Municipal appointments featured prominently in the board’s discussions. The board approved the appointment of Bob Sullivan as the interim building inspector, a role he previously held. They also considered the appointment of special municipal employees for the fiscal year 2026, encompassing various departmental roles. The motion to approve these appointments passed without objection.

Additionally, the board deliberated on the appointment of Marcus Phelps to the Planning Board, following a joint session with the Planning Board. Phelps, a former board member with extensive planning experience, was the sole applicant for the vacancy. Despite procedural concerns about candidate notification, his appointment was confirmed through unanimous support from both boards. The board also addressed the appointment of associate members, with candidates expressing interest in community engagement and regulatory problem-solving.

The meeting concluded with discussions on administrative matters, including scheduling future meetings and addressing the resignation of personnel. The board acknowledged the donations from the Rotary Club and local businesses to the animal control gift fund, and the resignation of library trustee Jennifer Belden, prompting considerations for a replacement. The board also noted the resignation of Carrie Bradbury from the fire department, recognizing her contributions since 2004 as a pioneering female firefighter.