36:02The meeting’s primary focus was the proposed zoning amendment to reduce the minimum lot size for 55 and over housing from two acres to one acre. This proposal sparked notable discussion, with at least one board member expressing strong opposition. The member voiced concerns that such a reduction might compromise the quality and sustainability of housing developments. The conversation underscored the requirement for Board of Health approval regarding septic systems and groundwater considerations, vital steps before any lot size change could be implemented. The upcoming hearing on the 14th was highlighted as an opportunity for further community engagement on this issue.

01:28:37Another topic was the town’s budgetary outlook, with the board grappling with the challenge of cutting 20% of previously identified funding for municipal services. This task is part of efforts to craft a feasible budget absent an override. The board expressed hope that the financial situation might improve by June 30th. The town administrator reflected on the hurdles faced since taking office, particularly regarding budgetary issues and the initiation of the page throw program, which had initially met resistance but now forms a regular part of municipal operations.

02:31The board also addressed administrative updates, including the appointment of Joseph Lennox and Joe Pakula as PDM firefighter paramedics for the Townsend Fire EMS department. These appointments, effective April 21 and May 1, 2025, respectively, were approved without opposition. The board discussed the highway department’s request to use Chapter 90 funds for resurfacing Greenville Road and Hillside Drive. This led to a broader conversation about the town’s road maintenance needs and the impact of increased Chapter 90 funding, from $400,000 to nearly $700,000, on future paving projects.

01:08:30A performance review of the town administrator, Nelson Yu, was conducted, with an overall average rating of 3.3. The board acknowledged the challenges Yu faced during his initial tenure, which included resignations from two select board members and a subsequent hiatus from meetings. Despite these obstacles, Yu was commended for his calm demeanor and ability to navigate complex situations. His efforts in contract negotiations and collaboration with department heads were particularly noted, although some members expressed a desire for more proactive goal-setting and clearer communication moving forward.

25:31The board also tackled a request from the Democratic Town Committee to use Meeting Room 2 at Town Hall for their caucus. Concerns were raised about weekend use of town facilities, and the board discussed the potential need for police presence or other security measures. Ultimately, the motion was approved, with a stipulation for the committee to inform the board of any changes to the event’s ending time. This decision highlighted the need for a consistent policy regarding the use of town facilities by political groups.

59:43Further, the meeting touched on an important grant-related topic, with discussions on the Route 13 North Bridge Mass Works grant engineering permitting contract with McFarland Johnson. The board moved to grant signatory authority for this and other grant paperwork to the town administrator, contingent on town council review. The board emphasized the necessity of procedural diligence in managing town resources and grants.

Additionally, the board considered the status of a corridor analysis for the Proctor Road intersection, previously on the MRPC’s list of active projects. The analysis appeared to have vanished from the website, prompting inquiries about its progress. The meeting also addressed pest control contracts, with discussions on organic methods and the involvement of the Board of Health in approving certain pesticides. The need for expert consultation during the contract signing process was emphasized.