The proposal to create the Agricultural Commission took center stage during the meeting. The commission’s formation process, member appointments, and operational structure were thoroughly examined.

The board also addressed the local election procedures, setting a subsequent election date for June 11th and deciding to exempt the local election, if necessary, from the vote by mail requirements. This decision followed a comprehensive debate on the implications of such exemption, which took into account the potential for voter disenfranchisement and the financial impact on the town.

Another topic was the review and approval of a one-day special license for an event slated for May 24. The board discussed conditions for the event, including the confined area for alcohol consumption, tip certification for responsible servers, and enforcement of serving capacity. Assurance was provided by the applicant regarding the server’s valid tip certification and adherence to the conditions, leading to the board’s approval.

The board’s agenda also included the review of a letter of acknowledgement to Fish and Wildlife concerning the potential purchase of private land within the town. Further, the board contemplated the town’s right of first refusal regarding the sale of property to Fish and Wildlife, delving into the notification process and town’s requirements to be informed.

A resident’s request to convert industrial land to residential use on Greenville Road sparked a debate on the implications of such a zoning change. Concerns were raised about the scarcity of industrial land and the desire to attract more businesses.

The board advanced with the special town meeting warrant article for the proposed zoning change on the industrial land, which also raised questions about planning board involvement and the status of existing residential property as a pre-existing non-conforming use.

A series of proposed warrant articles for the special town meeting were discussed, covering topics such as funding for the Conservation Commission, insurance costs, housing relocation, election budget, and the establishment of a conservation trust revolving fund. Adjustments to funding requests were made following a debate on the intended use of funds and the necessity for property acquisition or maintenance.

The meeting further delved into the annual town meeting agenda, addressing the operating budget, various budget segments, and the Prudent Investment Rule. The allocation of funds, potential changes to proposals, and the necessity for final figures were central in the discussions on budget items.

In a clarifying moment, the board dispelled rumors of a missing million dollars circulating on social media. Additionally, a 26% increase in the fire department’s budget was explained as essential for the replacement of multiple vehicles.

The board approved a forestry contract for the affordable housing trust, selected a company for an ADA evaluation of town properties, and authorized the surplus of a plow truck and lawn mower from the highway and facilities departments, respectively. The debates focused on the terms of the forestry contract and the selection criteria for the ADA evaluation company.

The discussion about the Mass Trails Grant for the S Rail Trail Connectivity Project revealed a significant cost overrun, prompting the board to consider applying for a grant amendment and reallocating funds to cover the additional expenses.