One of the most notable discussions centered around whether nonprofit organizations should be subjected to a local fee increase for annual food service permitting from $5 to $50. The board, seeking to clarify its position, examined the criteria for classifying nonprofits, citing churches and community organizations as examples. The board members unanimously agreed to retain the current policy of waiving fees, provided these organizations adequately prove their nonprofit status.

In the realm of septic system upgrades, the board reviewed two proposals for properties with failing systems. At 98 Wallace Hill Road, the upgrade involved installing a 1500-gallon septic tank and a 1000-gallon tank, which would feed into a specially designed Presby field. The proposal included a request for a reduction in the groundwater offset from four feet to two feet, a standard allowance for the system type considered necessary due to the terrain’s minimal slope and the need for light grading. The board approved the upgrade unanimously after a member motioned for its approval.

The second septic upgrade proposal for a property on Blood Road also received attention due to a failing system at the site. The board discussed plans to move the system outside the 100-foot radius of a nearby well for compliance, with the upgrade featuring similar tank specifications as the Wallace Hill Road project. The board approved this request unanimously.

The meeting also reviewed financial reports related to the town’s recycling and trash collection efforts. It was noted that September’s recycling figures had decreased to 42.71 tons from a usual 60 tons, while trash collection was at 102.43 tons, resulting in a total bill of $56,890. In October, a slight increase in recycling to 52.14 tons was observed, yet trash collection rose to 119.87 tons, raising concerns. Despite fluctuations in these figures, the board was reassured as the town remained within its financial forecast.

Further financial matters were discussed, including invoices from Shaw’s for landfill services, totaling $5,550 for mowing and weed whacking. A software maintenance fee for cameras at the recycling center, amounting to $216 annually, was also reviewed. Additionally, an unexpected increase in the Unatil bill to $142.46 from $45 prompted speculation about its cause.

The board also considered scheduling for upcoming meetings, initially proposing a meeting during Thanksgiving week. However, consensus was reached that it would not be appropriate due to the holiday. Consequently, the next meeting was scheduled for December 8, with a joint meeting planned involving the Board of Selectmen. A working session was also organized for November 17, focusing on financial matters without public presence, to prepare for the December meeting.