Mark Couture

Key discussions included plans to clear brush and remove old fencing at Safford Cemetery in the spring, followed by the installation of boundary markers. The removal of dead trees near Carroll Hill, contingent on road work scheduled for the summer, was noted. The Commission voted to replace the fence at Beaver Cemetery with a black board fence made of PVC or similar material, pending cost estimates. The mowing schedule for May 2026 through October 2026 was reviewed for inclusion in the contract mowing bid. Progress was made regarding access to Kezer Cemetery via the White's property for cleanup. A delay in the installation of the culvert for Mudgett Cemetery due to waiting on the Department of Public Works (DPW) scheduling was also reported.

The board conducted hearings for a seven-lot subdivision on Ferguson Road, involving discussions on buildable area compliance, lot layout, storm water permitting, and septic planning. Additionally, a conditional use and site plan hearing was held for a home auto collision repair industry on Green Acres Road, covering topics such as operating hours, noise, traffic impact, signage, and environmental compliance regarding fumes and waste management. Both project applications were subsequently approved with conditions during the deliberative session.

The board noted the lack of a quorum, which resulted in limited discussion and no official amendments. A presentation was provided regarding a summary of comments gathered from a community visioning event and survey. The board was also tasked with reviewing updates to Section 1 to prepare for future discussions concerning the structure and content of a new vision statement.

The meeting encompassed a comprehensive reorganization of the Selectboard, including the election of a Chair, Vice-Chair, and Clerk, and the appointment of various town positions such as Tree Wardens, Fire Wardens, and committee representatives. The board established the schedule for future regular meetings and designated an official newspaper for legal notifications. Discussions included a reflection on the recent town meeting, a report from the Town Manager regarding inter-departmental collaboration and upcoming highway projects, and the approval to proceed with a select tree cut project at the water plant site on Fletcher Road. Additionally, the board entered an executive session to address personnel matters.

The Fairfax Development Review Board will convene to act upon several items. Key agenda items include a combined Preliminary and Final site plan hearing for a proposed 7-lot subdivision located on 102 Ferguson Road. Additionally, the Board will conduct a Conditional Use and Site Plan Hearing concerning a Home Industry request (auto repair) at 58 Green Acres Road.