David G. Lizotte

The joint meeting focused on the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) process, specifically the submission of a Statement of Interest for the Loella F. Dewing Elementary School. Discussion topics included the requirements for the Statement of Interest, the multi-phase review process by MSBA, potential timelines for school construction, and the anticipated financial obligations for the town. The Select Board and School Committee both authorized the submission of the Statement of Interest, prioritizing specific statutory categories for building repairs and replacement.

The Select Board discussed the Tree City proclamation to designate Arbor Day, approved the Annual Town Election Warrant, and reviewed FY27 Enterprise Budgets and the Capital Improvement Plan, which included financial details regarding the Telemedia, Water, Sewer, and Stormwater funds. The Town Manager provided updates on the Shawsheen Tech budget, recent Department of Public Works efforts, and project status for a Host Community Agreement. Additionally, the Board approved a Town Counsel invoice.

The meeting included a public hearing regarding a utility pole petition by National Grid and Verizon on Shasheen Street. The Board discussed pole placement, impact on sidewalks, the removal of double poles, and infrastructure reliability. Additionally, the Board tabled a discussion concerning the makeup of the Economic Development Committee. Finally, the Board appointed two members to the Housing Authority, filling a tenant seat and an at-large vacancy.

The board conducted its annual re-organization, electing officers for the coming term, and performed annual re-appointments for health agents and special health agents. A discussion was held regarding public safety policy changes at Tewksbury State Hospital and the potential impact on municipal resources and community safety. Public comment included expressions of gratitude for the board's efforts regarding the Hillman Energy proposal. Updates were provided on the BESS project filings, including plans for future responses to test pit results, and the board discussed setting up future public hearings regarding Kratom regulation. The Health Department report covered upcoming community events, strategic planning, noise policy updates, and public health advisories related to tick prevention.

The joint board meeting focused on a review of the proposed Hillman Energy Center host community agreement. Topics discussed included the project's role as a 125-megawatt storage facility, the regulatory process involving the Energy Facility Siting Board, and the Town's status as an intervening party. Key financial components, such as a Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreement and additional payments through the host community agreement, were reviewed. Fire safety procedures, emergency preparedness, monitoring protocols, and potential impacts on property values and residential safety were also addressed, followed by an extensive public comment period.