The Board’s most pressing matter was the scheduling of a special election for the vacant Board of Selectman seat. Kathy proposed November 16th as the election date, allowing for the 64 days needed for nomination papers. This decision was strategic to avoid the complications of mail-in ballots, given the existing 1,500 requests for the presidential election. Kathy highlighted the logistical challenges and potential voter confusion that could arise from handling two ballots simultaneously. The Board approved her proposal, setting voting hours from 9 AM to 5 PM on a Saturday. Additionally, they decided that mail-in ballots would not be issued for this special election, though absentee voting would still be available.

The meeting also saw discussion on the Community Electric Aggregation Plan. Ross provided an update on the plan, which had recently progressed after the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) updated their guidelines. The town’s consultant, Good Energy, resubmitted the application, leading to its approval on August 29th. Ross emphasized the need for an electricity service agreement ready for signing on bid day, due to market volatility. The Board scheduled an executive session for September 23rd to discuss price ranges and agreement parameters. They also planned a public awareness campaign to inform residents about their options post-bid.

The Board’s appointment discussions included the nomination of Nelson Mu as the town’s procurement officer, hearing officer, and designee for handling grievances and signing road opening permits. The absence of a formal enforcement officer designation raised concerns, highlighting the need for potential bylaw amendments. Additionally, Mary James Chville was appointed to the Historic District Commission, effective until 2027, despite initial concerns about the appointment process and the commission’s authority to fill vacancies independently.

The Board presented him with a plaque, received with applause from attendees. The recognition was organized as a surprise.

The Board also discussed a consulting contract with Ross Perry, emphasizing the need for his continued expertise, particularly given the newness of some board members. The contract was proposed to extend until June 2025, but one member preferred a shorter 90-day term, citing budgetary constraints and the upcoming election of potentially more knowledgeable members. Ross reassured the Board of flexible billing practices, only incurring costs when his services were utilized. The Board voted to approve the contract with amendments for itemized monthly invoices.

Other topics included a mandatory referral for a property on Ryan Road, which was left to the Zoning Board of Appeals, and a clarification regarding the approval timeline for a stormwater easement on Fitzburg Road. The Board also tabled a proposal for a laptop for the Senior Center’s transportation administrator pending more information and accepted Town Council’s recommended changes to the town charter.

The meeting concluded with operational updates and project discussions, including a kickoff budget meeting with the North Middlesex Regional School District superintendent. The Town Administrator proposed inviting the school district’s finance team to future Finance Committee meetings to improve budgeting communication and understanding. This was in response to historical challenges during budget discussions. The Board also prepared for a public forum on the Pay As You Throw (PAYT) program, emphasizing structured discussions to maintain focus on the program’s objectives.