The most notable item on the agenda was the approval of an amended marijuana host community agreement for Alti Alternative Care. The original agreement was found non-compliant by the Cannabis Control Commission (CCC), specifically due to a sentence in the indemnification section that did not align with Massachusetts regulations. The town’s legal counsel swiftly drafted an amendment to rectify the issue by deleting the problematic sentence. Representatives from Alti Alternative Care expressed gratitude for the quick turnaround by town officials and legal counsel, enabling them to proceed with their business plans. The board unanimously approved the amended agreement.

In another notable move, the Select Board approved the financing agreement for a new dump truck. This financing had been previously authorized at the town meeting through the capital budget article, but the board needed to execute the formal agreement. The lease agreement spans four years, with annual payments of $4,394.67. The town will cover the initial deposit using funds from the FY24 capital budget.

Additionally, the board approved a routine but essential agreement with UMass Transit for basic transit services throughout Sunderland. This annual agreement is funded through cherry sheet assessments and ensures continued public transportation services for the town.

The board also confirmed several appointments, including Aaron Cek to the Cultural Council for a three-year term and Greg Got to the Conservation Commission, also for a three-year term. Both appointments received unanimous support from the board.

Town Administrator Geoffrey Kravitz provided updates on various town matters. Notably, the town received a small grant of $3,500 for the purchase of an additional tabulator and to cover early voting assistance for the upcoming presidential election. The board also authorized Kravitz to lock in a favorable heating oil price for the fiscal year, with current prices lower than earlier in the year.

Lastly, the board discussed and approved an amendment to the town’s mowing contract, adding four additional mowing sessions at Sunderland Elementary School. This decision follows a similar amendment made last year due to increased maintenance needs.