The most pressing topic of the meeting was the approval of a petition submitted by NSTAR Electric, doing business as Eversource, to install a new utility pole on Conway Road to provide electrical service to Lomo Farm. The public hearing for this petition began at 6:02 PM. A representative from Eversource detailed the proposal, explaining that the new pole would extend service to greenhouses at Lomo Farm. The discussion included questions about the location of the new pole and potential modifications to an existing pole, identified as es6 d44. The representative clarified that an additional anchor would be placed on the existing pole for support, a move previously agreed upon by the homeowners. After addressing all inquiries, the hearing was closed and the board voted unanimously to approve the petition.

Internet access issues were another focus of the meeting. Participants discussed the lack of competition among service providers and challenges faced by the 5% of residents without reliable connections. One participant highlighted a disparity in internet costs experienced by a student in Northampton, emphasizing the need for competitive pricing in Whately. Potential funding sources for addressing dead zones and inconsistent connections were explored, including programs like MBI, the BEAD challenge funding, and Connect Humanity. However, there was some confusion about the availability of these funds, leading to a broader discussion on the importance of understanding grant timelines in relation to upcoming cable renewal negotiations.

Suggestions for negotiating lower internet subscription rates and improving public Wi-Fi locations, particularly at the library, were made. The role of schools in addressing digital equity was also discussed, with a participant proposing school-related grants to facilitate access to devices for students. Ongoing digital literacy programs, especially for seniors, were acknowledged, but there was a call for more outreach efforts to other demographics. Frustration over the slow progress in addressing these issues was expressed, with a need for more decisive action rather than just discussions.

The board also reviewed host community agreements for three cannabis-related entities. Although no votes were taken as legal materials were still being finalized, the agreements were based on a model template from the Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) with necessary amendments recommended by Town Council. All three applicants agreed with the revised language, though there was debate over including an indemnification clause, which had been inconsistently accepted by the CCC in past agreements. A section promoting a cooperative relationship between the cannabis operations and the municipality, focusing on educational programs related to cannabis use, was added. The board was encouraged to review the agreements further and potentially approve them in the next meeting.

Administrative and operational matters were also addressed. The Highway Department requested to declare certain supplies and equipment as surplus, including parts for a tractor, an entire dump truck, and a quantity of galvanized perforated pipe. The board approved the surplus list unanimously. Additionally, the opening for a Community Development Administrator position was discussed following the resignation of the previous administrator. The proposal to remove the Assistant Town Administrator element from the job description was considered to allow for a clearer focus on community development responsibilities. The board aimed to expedite the posting of the position while maintaining proper protocol.

Financial matters were also on the agenda, with a special town meeting announced to address bills from prior fiscal years, including a late invoice for assessing software. Plans to rescind an opioid settlement special purpose stabilization fund and transfer those funds into free cash were discussed, proposing the creation of an Opioid Special Reserve fund for easier access and utilization of the funds.

The board also touched on the allocation of approximately $15,000 designated for educational and training purposes for the police department. The police chief requested part of these funds be redirected toward firearm purchases, prompting a debate among board members. Concerns were raised about the appropriateness of using these funds for firearms, with a preference for a more appropriate capital request process.

Other discussions included rebates for school projects associated with mini-split installations, ongoing costs of sheltering a dog, and updates from board members regarding liaison responsibilities. The Town Administrator provided updates on changes in the assistant assessor’s office hours and upcoming roadwork on River Road.