The key highlight from the meeting was the appointment of Cindy King to the newly formed Commission on Disability. This commission, a subject of previous advocacy by King, aims to address local disability-related issues and ensure compliance with relevant laws. King, a former board member, highlighted the need for clarity regarding the commission’s requirements, such as the stipulation that a majority of the members must be disabled. The board unanimously agreed to appoint King, contingent on a review by town council to verify the commission’s legal standing within the current town charter or bylaws. The board recognized the necessity of this commission and emphasized the importance of understanding its purpose and ensuring legal compliance.

In financial matters, the board grappled with the town’s accounting needs, discussing the possibility of hiring a full-time accountant. With the departure of the assistant town accountant, the board acknowledged the challenges in attracting qualified candidates due to budget constraints. The conversation revolved around whether to maintain the current arrangement with the accounting firm Markham, which has provided services under different names since 2021, or to develop a job description for a new full-time position. The board agreed to revisit the topic in their next meeting, considering the financial implications and the potential to share resources with neighboring towns.

The meeting addressed several open meeting law complaints, ranging from issues in January to July 2025. The board decided to seek extensions for responses and referred the complaints to town council for further review. One complaint, linked to a housing trust issue, was resolved after a letter from the Attorney General confirmed no law violations. The board also discussed complaints related to the addition of presentations to agendas.

Additionally, the board contemplated updates to the town’s alcohol beverage policy, last revised in 2014. Suggestions included requiring tips certification with one-day liquor license applications and considering safety measures for events serving alcohol. The board debated drink limits, drawing on examples from nearby towns like Tewksbury, and emphasized the need for flexibility in applying regulations based on specific event types. A motion to review the policy and update terminology to “select board” was passed, pending town council approval.

In terms of infrastructure and emergency services funding, the board discussed the application of Chapter 90 funds, allocated for highway projects. The funds, although increased, are insufficient to cover the town’s extensive road repair needs. The board also addressed funding for Emergency Medical Services following the closure of the NOVA facility. The governor’s proposed allocation of $350,000 to each community over two years raised questions about its use, with stipulations potentially limiting it to capital expenditures.

The board reviewed the Town Administrator’s performance and outlined goals for future evaluations. They emphasized the need for measurable objectives to guide the review process.

Other discussions included the formation of a volunteer coordination committee to streamline the appointment and training of new members to town boards and committees. The board recognized the need for a comprehensive handbook detailing the roles and responsibilities of volunteers and expressed intent to formalize these processes promptly.

Finally, preparations for an executive session on collective bargaining strategies were set, covering various union discussions. The board confirmed the procedural steps for entering and exiting the session.