Weston Town Clerk

The agenda for this meeting includes public comment, a report from the Town Planner, a continued hearing regarding a Zoning Bylaw Amendment for 300 Wellesley St (Regis College Owner, HYM, Applicant), and discussions on Lighting Rules and Regulations. New business addresses a Site Plan Approval Amendment for 355 Highland St to revise grading, landscape, and lighting. Old business includes reviewing a Letter of Support from the Open Space and Recreation Committee. The board is also scheduled to review minutes from previous meetings held on January 28th, February 4th, and February 25th.

The meeting commenced with an executive session concerning the purchase of real property at 356 Boston Post Rd. (Josiah Smith Tavern) and compliance with grant requirements. Following the return to open session, resident comments were heard, including a reminder about the Marines Toys for Tots program. A significant portion of the meeting involved an update on the Weston Power Choice municipal electricity aggregation program, detailing the options available to participants, the cost savings realized, and participation rates. The Board interviewed a candidate for the Board of Registrars. Furthermore, the Board executed the amended development agreement with Boston Properties, previously adopted at a Special Town Meeting. Discussions were held regarding the communications strategy for the upcoming Special Town Election scheduled for January 13, 2026, concerning the proposed change in the number of Select Board members from three to five, and election hours were set. The consent agenda included the approval of minutes, approval for in-person early voting for the Special Election, reappointment of Town Counsel, acceptance of several gifts to various town entities, and authorization for night-time water work at 269 North Avenue.

The meeting included a unanimous approval for the purchase of a 3D printer, with a budget of up to approximately $1,700, justified by increased patron demand and advanced printing capabilities. The Board discussed the resignation of a member and current uncertainties regarding the center's future, opting against active recruitment for the moment. Manager's reports detailed significant revenue generated from December classes and projected January revenue. Discussions covered REC Summer Camp programming, where staff time and materials must be covered, and updates on successful events like the Golden Ball and Craft Swap, with new programs planned. Rental trends indicated Saturdays and Weston residents were most popular. Marketing efforts include launching a Weston Observer column. Hannah was confirmed as the Student Advisory Board liaison. The fundraising year-end appeal underperformed, prompting a discussion on relationship-based fundraising. The concept of a petty cash fund up to $300 per month for small expenses, with itemized reporting, was approved.

Key discussions included a proposal to apply for Community Preservation Act (CPA) funding, seeking $50,000 for design fees for a new playground at Burchard Park, which was unanimously approved. The Commission also discussed seeking CPC funding approval for the Field 1 lighting project from the Recreation Master Plan Committee. The approved Memorial Pool pricing for the summer of 2026 was reviewed and accepted. Furthermore, the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget was supported, granting the Director authority to negotiate the Town's contribution to revenues with the Finance Committee and Town Manager. The Director's report covered updates on the Memorial Pool circulation system and the Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP) review phase.

The meeting involved introductions from an international waste management expert who may become a new committee member. The committee discussed new priorities regarding building decarbonization, particularly with the new Facilities Director, John Marzec. Key projects include retro-commissioning efforts and major building projects like the Fire and WMS/WHS facilities aiming for LEED Silver certification. The committee considered forming a subcommittee to pursue grant opportunities for energy efficiency projects in buildings not slated for replacement, such as the Town Hall and library. Updates were provided on leaf blowers and the Climate Action and Resilience Plan (CARP). The committee also received updates from the Permanent Building Committee (PBC) regarding pool pump replacements with variable frequency drives and proposed LED lighting for a school field. Furthermore, the Students for Environmental Action (SEA) reported on planning for lobby day at the State House concerning bills related to air quality, farm-to-school subsidies, rodenticides, preventing gas expansion in new buildings, and climate education curriculum. Finally, there was a discussion regarding expiring lighting incentives and recent utility rate changes.