The topic of parking regulations took center stage, with a portion of the meeting dedicated to public hearings and debates over proposed “resident and guest only” parking signs in various neighborhoods. These proposals stemmed from resident complaints regarding non-residents parking in local areas, leading to littering and congestion, particularly near popular sites like North Pond.

Residents voiced concerns about the practicality of enforcing such regulations, questioning how police would determine which vehicles belonged to residents or their guests without a formal tagging system. The Lieutenant, present at the meeting, acknowledged these enforcement challenges. A bylaw was proposed to support enforcement, though statutory requirements regarding sign placement distances posed logistical hurdles.

Despite broad support for the parking regulations among residents, worries persisted about the feasibility and potential burden of enforcement. Suggestions included using common sense by law enforcement officers, who would rely on observations and community reports to monitor parking compliance. A proposal for a permit system, modeled after a neighboring town’s ordinance, was considered but met with reluctance due to concerns about complicating the process with additional bureaucracy.

Additionally, the meeting delved into specific parking issues on streets like Granado and White, where safety concerns were raised due to narrow roadways hindering emergency vehicle access. A decision was made to implement no-parking signage on White Street, with residents supporting this move as a straightforward safety measure distinct from the more complex resident-only parking discussions.

The meeting further highlighted residents’ frustrations over delays in opening local cannabis dispensaries, which were attributed to the state’s Cannabis Control Commission’s review timeline rather than the town’s actions. A resident expressed concern that these delays were harming local businesses and depriving the town of potential revenue, emphasizing the need for dispensaries to commence operations.

Budget discussions also featured prominently, focusing on staffing needs and the allocation of hours for the Community Preservation Committee. The board reviewed a request from the Conservation Commission Coordinator for increased working hours, citing the demands of managing town conservation efforts. This request was acknowledged but deferred for formal budgetary consideration during the upcoming Town Meeting.

Recognition was given to two firefighters for completing their Firefighter One training. The board also accepted donations to the Southwick Animal Control gift fund, reflecting community support in memory of a local resident.

The Select Board addressed several administrative matters, including approving the schedule for meetings in early 2025 and discussing potential changes to Town Hall operating hours to improve energy efficiency. A proposal to close Town Hall early on Fridays, reallocating hours to busier Mondays, was considered to better accommodate residents’ schedules and reduce energy consumption.