Ronald A. DeFrancesco

The council accepted the resignation of the Tax Collector and appointed an interim successor. A public hearing was held regarding the proposed municipal budget and capital program for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, which was subsequently adopted following discussions on salary adjustments and departmental allocations. The council also reviewed preliminary designs for a new town hall, adopting a specific option while determining the need for further staff consultation and future bidding processes for construction management services.

The council discussed several administrative and legislative items. Key actions included the approval of a liquor license for Tilted Barn Brewery, the dismissal of a charter violation complaint against a council member, and the approval of a municipal grant for the public library. The council also extended the emergency moratorium on commercial uses in residential districts and reviewed proposed zoning amendments. Additionally, they supported various state legislative resolutions, addressed public works projects such as facility upgrades at the animal shelter, and conducted an executive session regarding litigation and legal services.

The council discussed rescheduling a public hearing regarding proposed amendments to the zoning ordinance for commercial uses in residential districts. The hearing date was changed to July 8, 2026. Additionally, a resident presented suggestions regarding large parcel zoning overlay districts as a method to mitigate high-density housing conversions.

The council reviewed and discussed various proposed zoning ordinance amendments with the Town Planner. Key topics included regulations for lumber and wood processing operations in residential districts, including equipment and employee limitations and agricultural exemptions. The council also addressed prohibited uses within residential zones, specifically banning sludge incineration, pyrolysis or gasification facilities, and data centers. Additionally, discussions were held on regulations for family child care and group family daycare homes, as well as home-based retail, office, and artisanal uses, with specific debate over square footage allowances for merchandise display. The council voted to approve these amendments and move forward with the formal adoption process.

The Council discussed the selection of Brewster Thornton Group Architects for the future town hall project at 742 Ten Rod Road, reviewing and ultimately approving the contract, which includes initial drawings and oversight through construction. Additionally, the Council continued the review and preparation of the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 proposed budget, specifically addressing revenue from the Solar Farm Pilot and making salary adjustments for the Town Sergeant, Social Services, and Council departments.