Town of Freetown

The board entered an executive session to discuss real estate and personal property abatement or exemption applications. They also addressed the potential purchase, exchange, lease, or valuation of real estate at a specific location, and discussed legal strategy regarding litigation involving another property. Additionally, the board announced the results of an abatement application, granting a reduction in value and commercial percentage for a property on Zitano Way.

The agenda for the meeting, which was canceled due to a snowstorm, included an executive session for contract negotiations with non-union personnel. Business topics comprised discussions on the Community Program Manager position, acceptance of charitable donations for local initiatives, and the implementation of community programs at Hathaway Park and for senior citizens. Additionally, the board planned to review service agreements for sidewalk construction, property appraisal, and a three-year fiscal audit. The board also addressed the disposal of surplus police department equipment, a presentation on the town beach master plan, and various personnel actions, including resignations and appointments to town boards and committees.

The commission reviewed multiple Requests for Determination of Applicability, including plans for a septic system installation at 33 Richmond Road and a home addition at 33 Cliff Drive. Several Notices of Violation were addressed, resulting in discussions regarding site compliance, buffer zone restrictions, and requests for missing documentation. The commission also deliberated on the appointment of a new alternate member and conducted a budget review to discuss hourly wage adjustments. Additionally, members engaged in a discussion regarding the potential impact of state interest in conservation land for housing development.

The meeting could not be held as scheduled due to a lack of a quorum, resulting in the immediate adjournment of the proceedings.

The meeting included several public hearings that were continued or withdrawn. One public hearing regarding Commercial Composting for 0 Thomas Lucas Lots was continued to April 21, 2026, due to delays in receiving an engineering consultant's work product. The public hearing for Commercial Recycling at 89 Chace Road was reopened, and the applicant's request to withdraw the application without prejudice was approved, despite objections from a neighbor requesting withdrawal with prejudice. A Site Plan Review for the construction of 6 Contractor bays/Warehouses at 170 Middleboro Road was continued to March 3, 2026, pending receipt of a Peer Review. Under New Business, the Board heard a presentation from the Department of Energy Resources (DOER) regarding mandated changes to clean energy siting and permitting, including a new 12-month deadline for local permitting decisions. Additionally, there was an informal discussion regarding a Minor Site Plan Review for 16 Locust Street, where the owner requested guidance on necessary plans for his insulation installation business, and the Board agreed to informally review a plan drafted in cooperation with the Town Planner and Building Commissioner. The Board also reviewed a checklist of conditions for Special Permit applications and an engineer checklist provided by the Town Planner.