Jim Holton

The Select Board meeting addressed the possibility of selling baked goods on town property near the rail trail, emphasizing the requirement for insurance and health permits. Discussions also included the appointment of a new member to the Forest Committee and a proposed modification to the town's stewardship plan to allow for the use of Class 1 and Class 2 electric bicycles on town trails. The board also reviewed the progress of a grant application process.

The committee meeting focused on a forest management update and trail building activities. Key discussion topics included the planning for trail maintenance, the organization of volunteer groups for spring cleanup, and project progress on the forest stewardship parcel. The committee addressed concerns regarding trail conditions, debris removal, and the reclamation of forest roads, including decisions on managing stream crossings and culvert removal.

The board discussed multiple administrative and project-based topics, including the renewal of the tax map maintenance contract, the appointment of various town officers, and the update of the procurement policy to align with state and federal guidelines. Key project discussions focused on FEMA-funded flood mitigation efforts at culverts and bridges, the procurement of engineering services for wastewater projects, and the reuse planning for a buyout property at Riverside Park. Additionally, the board approved liquor and tobacco licenses for a local business, reviewed grant applications for infrastructure projects, and authorized community-led maintenance work on a historic schoolhouse.

The commission held discussions regarding proposed changes to zoning and subdivision bylaws. Members reviewed various subdivision examples and deliberated on the potential for the planning commission to take on the responsibility of reviewing driveway permits.

The board held officer elections for Chair and Vice Chair, reviewed and accepted the financial report, and confirmed the continuation of existing cemetery by-laws while deciding against allowing green burials at this time. The board discussed a lot buy-back request, addressed an inquiry regarding the burial of cremated remains on an existing grave, and initiated a new bidding process for cemetery mowing services due to the previous contractor's inability to fulfill the contract. Additionally, the board planned to assess necessary cemetery repairs.