Town of Morris

This document proposes the establishment of the Bantam Lake Overlay District within the Town of Morris's zoning regulations to maintain and improve the water quality of Bantam Lake. The initiative stems from recommendations in the 2021 Morris Town Plan of Conservation & Development, which prioritized water quality protection. Key provisions include specific requirements for outdoor illumination adhering to Dark Sky Lighting standards, detailed regulations for the size, materials, and placement of docks, floats, and boat lifts, the establishment of a 25-foot shoreline setback for non-marine structures, limitations on impervious coverage not exceeding 25% (including gravel), and adherence to Low Impact Development Design Standards. The overarching goal is to preserve the ecological integrity and ensure the safety of the lake's environment and shorelines.

The key discussion for this special meeting focused on the 2026 budget in consultation with Selectmen Litchfield and Morri.

The meeting commenced with the approval of minutes from a previous meeting held on November 5th. Key discussions involved scheduling the 2026 regular meeting calendar, including tentative dates around St. Patrick's Day and Cinco de Mayo, and planning for a special meeting around December 2nd to address an Interlocal Agreement that required Board of Finance approval before proceeding to a town meeting. Concerns were raised regarding traffic safety, noise, and parking issues related to an open house event hosted by Turbo Hand on South Street, which prompted a decision to contact the owner and local enforcement regarding safety protocols. The board also discussed budgeting constraints for the coming year, anticipating increases in Region 20 assessments and significant rises in health insurance premiums, requiring exploration of alternative plans. Other agenda items included planning for a yearly employee lunch on December 18th, compiling a list of goals for the upcoming budget season, and planning for town hall decorating, including a photo contest featuring historical town images.

Key discussions centered on committee business. The Finance committee approved investments in Certificates of Deposit up to $45,000, sourced from savings and checking accounts. The Events committee reviewed the success of the craft fair, confirmed no favorite dog contest for the parade, and noted upcoming events including the Memorial Day parade and a Blue Grass festival, with plans to schedule another boating class. Training involved discussions about a successful live burn event and upcoming sessions like Driver Operator Night and a Dive Team Drill. Facility updates included updated door codes following the Bathroom Renovation project. New Business introduced the possibility of acquiring a Bounce House and noted the availability of rescue harnesses for sale. Congratulations were extended to a member finishing Fire 2 training.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and a Moment of Silence. Committee business included the distribution of updated tags, acceptance of the Treasurer's report, and no new items regarding ByLaws. Upcoming events scheduled are a Craft Show on April 5th and Ice Rescue Training on March 2nd, along with discussion of a Cyber Truck event and weekly Truck Night. Facility updates covered progress on basement bathroom renovations. Membership discussed recruitment/retention plans and equipment for the gym, noting a member's successful completion of Fire 1 certification and approving the motion to part ways with another member. New business involved working on radio programming and deciding to sponsor a Hall of Fame Table for $125 at the Roast Beef Dinner scheduled for April 26, 2025.