The sewer system’s financial stability was a primary concern, as projected revenues are falling short of the growing expenses. The board discussed the need for a rate increase by October 1st, with suggestions including a short-term base rate increase of 10-15% and the possibility of doubling rates within five years. The importance of differentiating residential and commercial rates was highlighted, and renegotiating with Westfield for sewer rates was debated. The board considered various strategies to make the sewer system self-sustaining, such as encouraging more users to connect to the system and extending the time for them to do so. There was also talk about the limitations of communal septics and the need for the sewer system to be self-sufficient in the long term. Consulting with the finance committee was proposed for input on the rate increase and for finding solutions to close the financial gap.

The board commended Officer Kelly Miller and Sergeant Parker for their handling of a chaotic incident.

Another discussion focused on the reallocation of offices within the town hall. The assessors’ office was proposed to be moved to a different location, and the current space repurposed for the select board’s use. This led to a broader conversation about scheduling and optimizing the use of meeting spaces, including the possibility of changing meeting nights to accommodate other boards and commissions. The audio system and acoustics in various rooms were also topics of concern, with the idea of televising meetings to improve accessibility.

Road improvements were a key focus, with the board examining the allocation of funds for proposed projects. They debated the prioritization of roads based on traffic volume, urgency of repairs, and neighborhood impact. The need to address infrastructure issues, such as potholes and worn-out roads, was emphasized, with suggestions to reallocate funds to prioritize certain projects.

In addition to infrastructure, the board discussed new hirings and appointments within the town government. This included the approval of an agreement for the Council on Aging director and discussions about the reappointment process for town employees. The potential impact of an energy contract with Titan Energy was reviewed, considering the need to lock in a rate before the current contract’s expiration.

The high-speed internet project’s financial projections were scrutinized to ensure debt retirement within the borrowing timeframe. Risks and commitments were assessed, with the board emphasizing a cautious approach. Discussions also covered the scoring and interviews for marijuana dispensaries, the T-Mobile Hometown Grant for wireless mesh technology, and the appointment process for the master plan implementation subcommittee.

The board addressed concerns about the management of conservation areas. The loss of control of a website and the violation of social media and telecommunications policy by the misuse of official email addresses were also topics of discussion.