The board’s determination followed extensive testimony and evidence presented during a public hearing. The animal control officer and several neighbors testified about the dogs’ aggressive behavior, which culminated in a serious attack on a 14-year-old Chihuahua. This incident required the Chihuahua to undergo emergency surgery for severe injuries, prompting concerns about the safety of residents and their pets. The owner of the Chihuahua shared emotional testimony.

During the discussion, it was revealed that the King Corsos had previously been implicated in multiple incidents of running loose and causing disturbances in the neighborhood. Testimonies highlighted a pattern of behavior that raised serious safety concerns, with several residents expressing fear for their families and pets. The board deliberated on the appropriate course of action, considering the legal constraints under Massachusetts General Law. Ultimately, the board agreed to classify the dogs as dangerous, requiring their confinement to the owner’s property, muzzling and restraining when outside, and the owner to obtain an insurance policy with minimum coverage of $100,000.

In addition to these measures, the board mandated that the dogs be microchipped and that the owner provide identifying information to ensure compliance. These conditions aim to mitigate the risk of future incidents and provide a structured approach to managing the dogs’ behavior.

Following the resolution of the dangerous dogs’ case, the board turned its attention to the appointment of Lauren Monttoello as the new director of senior services. Monttoello, who previously served as the director of the Council on Aging in a neighboring town, was unanimously approved for the position. She expressed enthusiasm for the role. The board authorized the town administrator to negotiate an employment agreement with Monttoello, pending standard pre-employment checks.

The board also addressed several employment and financial matters during the meeting. Notably, they approved the renewal of a $1.75 million bond anticipation note for school construction, as well as a $1.27 million contract with PJ Keating Company for paving improvements. These financial measures are part of ongoing efforts to manage the town’s infrastructure and educational facilities effectively.

In terms of employment, the board approved various job descriptions and postings, including positions for a public health nurse and a building department principal clerk. The need to fill these roles promptly was emphasized to ensure continuity of services and compliance with statutory obligations. The town administrator provided updates on efforts to recover costs from past winter weather events and reported on the progress of the old high school master plan, which includes potential housing developments.