What? Okay. >> Recording in progress. Make >> sure I got the right thing. >> Okay. Welcome to the Town of Deerfield Select Board Board of Health Sewer Commissioners meeting for September 17th, 2025 at 6 PM. This is a hybrid meeting on Zoom and in the main meeting
room at 8 Conway Street, South Deerfield, Mass. This meeting will be held in a hybrid fashion with the opportunity for both in-person attendance and remote participation. Please note that while an option for remote attendance and/or participation is being provided as a courtesy to the public, the meeting or hearing will not be suspended or terminated if
technological problems interrupt the virtual broadcast unless otherwise required by law. Members of the public with a particular interest in any specific um item on the agenda should make plans for inperson versus virtual attendance accordingly. The meeting will be held in the in person in the main
meeting room of the Deerfield Municipal Offices in accordance with Mass General Law Chapter 38. Anyone attending to intending to record the meeting must identify themselves to the clerk and provide their name and address for the record. Um I'll call the meeting to
order. Um we first have uh as always public comment. Um so I'm happy to hear anybody anyone have any public comment? >> I got public comment. >> Okay. Yeah. Come come on. Good. >> And then you have I see you Matt too as well, Noel. So, uh, go ahead, David.
>> State your name and address for the >> Good evening. I'm Dave Wolf from 31 South Main Street, South Deerfield. Thank >> you. Welcome. Um, this isn't something I usually do, but um, I want to talk about, uh, Charlie Kirk's assassination.
Um, even though I disagree with about 90% of the things that this gentleman stood for, um, I had a lot of concern about the post on social media about it. And I thought it was very inappropriate to say the least. The thing that
bothered me even more that some of the comments were coming from people that were either appointed or elected in the positions in the town of Deerfield, which you know, I would hope they would have considered something different before they put post on social media, but
evidently they didn't. Uh, so it's um, as I said, I think it's especially inappropriate and for anybody that's in the elected or appointed positions, but anybody from the town of Deerfield,
uh, you know, assassination isn't the way to settle an argument. And um you know, like I said, this 90% of what he stood for, I disagreed, but you know, at least he sat down with the governor
of of uh California to talk over some subjects, which is very unusual for somebody that's so far left and so far right. Um you know, I've seen a significant change in the attitudes in the town of Deerfield. A lot of it happened during uh the time of Dollar
General and we've seen a big split in town and I'd like to see that somehow mitigated in some ways because it's not appropriate. You know, we've got to learn to talk to each other. We can't just be arguing about everything. It's either my way or no way. You know,
there's always a middle ground to everything that we do. Um it's so um and that's all I have to say on that. >> Thank you for your comment. >> Okay. >> Appreciate it very much. Uh Matt, welcome.
>> Hello. >> Hello. >> And Noel. >> Hi guys. I'm going to go first if that's all right. >> Oh, of course. Yeah. Welcome Noel. >> Okay. Yeah. Thank you. So Noel Dhy 1 Road 1A Weightley Road. Um I'll make this short and sweet tonight guys. Um, I just wanted to say that last night I
think we um can say that there was an unexpected and interesting turn of events when for some reason the level of noise at locations that have been impacted the most did not experience the same level of noise that we regularly do on concert
nights. I hope that enough of us got that point across that this was not rep last night was not representative in any way of a normal night and therefore should not be considered as such when moving forward on making decisions regarding the
license renewal for Treehouse. >> Thank you for that comment. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> And uh Matt Tuttle, oneley road, 1A road here in South Deerfield. >> Welcome Matt. Um, first I'd like to thank Blake for organizing and
conducting the home site visits during the concerts. Um, after 3 years of requesting assistance from the town regarding the treehouse concert noise pollution, it was encouraging to finally see some acting action being taken. Um, and like Noel said, while the concert on
Tuesday the 16th was not as loud as my house or as as loud at my house, other Deerfield residents along North Main Street and nearby areas reported significant disturbances disturbances in their homes due to the noise. Um, this
demonstrates that more work remains to be done on the matter. Um, as the per permit renewal approaches this December, I hope the select board will conduct the process with full transparency, ensuring that impacted residents are given the opportunity to provide feedback prior to
this pro uh prior to its approval. Thank you. >> Thank you, Matt. Yeah, thank you both for your comment. >> Okay, thank you. >> Sure. Um, any any other public comment? >> Yeah, I know. Roger, I I think you had mentioned you wanted to have have some
comments. >> If you wouldn't mind, that would be great. >> Not a problem. >> Welcome. >> Hi, Roger Saddowski. I live on uh 160 Hillside Road and I have some property on 117 Hill uh River Road and uh I can
hear music. >> Roger, if you mind just Yeah, thank you. >> very very faintly. uh when the concerts are on and stuff, it's not like disturbing, but I can't imagine what it is like downtown and stuff. So, that's I
just wanted to mention that. And I was speaking with some people >> uh in Sunderland, they hear it. And then in Whitley, up behind the Whitley in up in that area, they can hear it. So, it spreads a long ways. And this is really
the first time I've been around for their uh half marathon. And it didn't affect me too much, but I would think it could be more friendly to the community with the roads being shut down and stuff like that. So maybe
vehicles could travel and the runners could run safely and stuff. And that's all I really had to say on uh Treehouse. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Thank you. No other public comments on any subjects hearing none. Going once, going twice.
>> Roger, you didn't want to touch on anything else. That's it. >> Oh, I thought you put me on the agenda. We >> We ended up just putting you in public comments, so if you want to >> Oh, okay. Yeah. Well, I didn't know. >> Oh, come on up. Come on back. And I guess the real reason I'm here is
I'm representing the old Deerfield Country store about some drainage issues. Uh I don't know if it was last year or the year before when they did all that digging up there and stuff. Uh they were supposed to come out like
between the old deer for the country store and bittersweets. There's like a a drainage thing that's got silted in during that storm. And John said that, you know, they couldn't get to it right then that year or when they were working and stuff and that they would take care
of it. And he even looked at some water that was standing on property behind the store. Uh I'm trying to think of her name, Barbara Blake or uh something like that. But anyways, he was looking at how they
could solve that problem also. And uh I've gone to Matt a couple times to see when they're going to do it. And uh he never really committed. He wanted to get other people's opinions and stuff,
but finally I got a letter from the town from uh Chris saying that they don't go on public property to do that type of work. And uh private property. Yeah. >> Yeah. Well, I I meant private. I I'm
sorry. I said public. Yeah. And I said the majority of that work was done on private property. It was like 99% of it was. So, I a little confused here. What would you like us to say? Well,
I just want to be treated like everybody else, and nobody's doing anything. They said they were going to take care of the issue. They did it for everybody else in that area. Uh replace culverts on private property, a lot of stuff. So, I'd like
to know why it isn't getting taken care of. >> Yeah, I can't I can't answer that, Roger. I would say that, you know, I guess the staff has looked at it and they said that they're not going to work on private property. >> So,
>> so that is the case. Well, I'm really confused because today on Hillside Road, they opened up an end of a culvert, but they went quite a ways on private property. >> So, what what's the difference?
>> Can't answer that one, Roger. Well, >> I don't know what they did. >> A little foolish to me. >> Well, it sounds like maybe what we need to do is consult with um the uh DPW chief and the emergency medical dire uh
management director who's John Poric. A lot of the work I think you're referencing happened under emergency conditions. culverts were put in during the if you're speaking about the July 2023 storm and the aftermath that was
all done under emergency conditions and um you know so that could have some that could have some bearing on what the decision why the decision's different now it's not under emergency conditions but that's speculation on my part >> they said that they were going to take care of it when that existed and I don't
know what happened or what didn't happen but like I say today. They worked on uh you know maybe a quarter mile up off of North Main Street on Hillside Road and they went quite a ways on public on private property and so I don't know if
you can't work on that private property how can you work on that? >> Not yeah I'm not the det how far they went. >> Are you talking about clearing an existing culbert? >> They cleared the end of it. I could understand that they stayed on public
property, but they went >> I didn't go and walk in the bushes, but it's probably over 100 feet. I can see from the road that they mucked out. So, >> your your property that you are talking about is the old Deerfield Country
Store, correct? Yeah. >> And and there's um there is or is not a stream bed where you're talking and this is in the middle of the property. >> No, it's along five and 10. >> So on five and 10. So right >> is it in the state right away?
>> Yes. But it comes through and I believe some of it's on our property. Yeah. Then it goes on to bittersweet >> and whatever happened in the past I wasn't there. That's the way the water always flowed. Mhm. >> And then uh after that storm, a lot of
silk came off the railroad and they actually cleaned whopping road that drainage ditch just last week. >> And I've said to numerous people, it's coming from the railroad and they'll never stop till they really maintain
their culverts and stuff. So I I >> So the water's coming over Whopping Road onto your property? No, it it did at one time, not now because they're taking care of it. But if they don't, and it's I talked to Matt about that and he goes, "Yeah, it's really silted in. We're
going to have to dig it again." >> So I said, "Yeah, but it's the railroad. Somebody needs to go tell them they need to maintain their culverts." >> And and so I'm just trying to understand how that gets to your property.
>> It doesn't right at this given moment. But when that swale, that drainage ditch gets plugged up, it will come right across the road like it did during that big event. >> And it brought tons of silt. There's >> I don't even know how many dead trees it
silted in so bad on >> on on that on your side. >> Yeah. On her side. And then the property. And I don't know if anybody's even contacted her when they were doing all that cleaning up. uh
Mary Hancock uh property. So uh you know and it affects us because it almost comes into our building. >> So I don't know why it was taken wasn't taken care of. We're >> but when you're saying the water is say
you have a heavy rain event on your prop on your property is the water coming from five and 10 onto your property. It's it's what happens is it comes off a five and 10. >> Yeah. >> And typically it would go behind this.
It was a cattle pass, I believe. It wasn't really a right >> a drainage swale. >> And I don't know what happened when uh Savage's store got built and stuff, but that's the way the water always went >> and it would flow behind your building
or >> in front of it. this past winter. Uh it wasn't really a rain event, maybe a little bit, a melt. It plugged up so bad that it there was water on our driveway. So we called the state >> and you're talk. So I just want to make
sure I understand your concern. Is the in front of your house or in front of the building or in back of the building? >> We have problems both areas. >> Okay. >> One is in the front. >> Yeah. >> And so that you know we had a we called the state. They came up with a loader,
tried to get the water to flow that way. I've asked them to clean it. They say the same thing. They don't go on public property. Yeah. >> I mean, private property. And uh >> so, you know, and when that all that
drainage work was done to there, they did a lot to correct issues that were affecting five and 10, the state highway. >> Yeah. And that's really like all that whole area they dug it just to get water off five and 10.
>> And in the back the water does come in and that's coming off a whopping road. >> Okay. So you you have a concern on both sides of the road. >> Yeah. Okay. >> So I would like some type of answer like >> I can't give you one. I don't have one.
>> Will I ever get one? >> You can't answer that either. And I I'll just mention I know in Matthew and I think we put this in the letter is working on the swale on whopping road which is within our right of way. >> Um >> I'm not disputing that. >> Yeah. No, I'm just mentioning it for the context for the board.
>> Yeah, I haven't seen the letter. >> You would you like to see it? >> Well, I mean I can get a copy from I'm sure we have an electronic version. The other thing, Roger, is that uh wasn't it brought up that the state was going to redo five and 10 in that area there?
>> Yes, I contacted them. I said what the issue is and stuff and you know they could put a a pipe underneath Bittersweet's driveway and I think that's the way the water originally
was flowing at one time but >> they didn't when they built that building they didn't put a cover underneath there were require them to they maybe said okay let it go in the back and >> down to that >> where they have that fence and stuff but I'm just guessing ing. I'm just
assuming. I don't know that. >> Mhm. >> So, >> but that would be something that we could look into as far as the state goes if they >> Well, yes. Like I say, I contact them and I they just didn't really respond one way or the other. >> I was under the impression that they
were looking at redoing that. >> Well, they're going to redo it, but will they put the pipe underneath? I doubt it. So, I think that that's part of it. >> I think there's a shot we can get that through with that. who usually have a seat at the table when they're doing that stuff, >> right? So, we definitely can look into that end
of it with the state. Um, I'm still unclear on the back side of the building as to what I I thought digging a swale was going to be the way to go right next to the road that would clear that water out, but you were
telling me no, that's not the way to go. Well, you like you you go like you'd probably try to pick the spot where it originally flowed because it's the lowest spot. They used to farm back there. They used to have onions and potatoes and stuff, people have told me.
So, when that silt came across during that big event, it just silted in. Like you said, it killed trees. So, I don't even know. and the town, you know, pushed sill off the road and built like even a bigger barrier in spots like and
uh yes, it is uh private property. So, I don't know if Barbara has contacted the community or not. I don't know. But it's coming off a whopping road and getting trapped there and it gets so high it approaches our building.
Okay. And since the last storm, it's gotten that high. >> Oh, yes. Since that big event? Yes. This summer it has. >> So, so just so the board can see it, this uh on the map here,
>> uh that yellow property is Roger's property. And then, you know, kind of wedged in there, this big wetland area, that is the Mary Alice Hancock property that I believe you're referring to. Roger. >> Roger. Do you have a letter from her or
some sort of contact? >> No, I've never contacted her. I've talked to her uh son once and uh yeah, that is our property also. >> That >> the small the rectangle. >> Yeah, right. >> Yeah.
>> And that drainage swale is right in that like where the property line ends sort of >> south. >> Yeah. South. >> Yeah. And it goes in behind the back to that other spot behind Bittersweet.
>> See that driveway there? That's what I thought you were talking about between >> Well, that's where they stopped >> cuz I thought that was a there was a >> right right where you have your hand right now. >> Go to the the left of your hand a little bit. There's a brown spot. >> Yeah. >> You can see that they No, down on this
side. Right. >> Yeah. >> They there was a culvert there. There's nothing there now. It was just and they just leveled it off and created a dam worse than >> cuz the water eventually would flow into
that southern green spot that I mean that's really the >> even go into there now Trevor because they dug all that behind Bittersweet and it it's dropped that water >> like I'll call it a pond or whatever you want to they've dropped that you know so
much because they opened it up because it gets silted in over the years. >> But if there was a a way for water to get from the top green to the bottom green, that would drain quite a bit of that. Correct. >> Yes, it would. Yes. From the north, it would it come across and get into that
culver that was underneath that driveway >> and it would flow south to where they have those gates. >> Yeah, that's what I thought was the original. >> Well, that's one of the concerns. But the one somebody's going to get killed on uh five and 10 because of the ice and
we try to maintain our driveway. >> Right. Okay. Well, thank you for the more more context that help that helps to understand a little bit more. >> But after I don't know when you'll debate about it or talk about it, but I'd like some type of response from
>> Okay. >> Yep. >> All right. Thank you very much. >> Yep. Appreciate you coming in. Helps. Um, hearings and appearances. >> Mr. Wolfram, >> how are we doing?
>> Good. Good to see you again. >> So, I understand you wanted to you wanted to chat a bit about um >> So, my name is Dave Wolf from 31 South Main Street. Thank you. >> In South Deville. Um, I'm here tonight to request that the board present an
article in the November meeting to expand the board from three members to five. Um, I've got a uh report from uh the department of revenue um and u we recommend expanding the size
of the board of selectment from three to five members. The increase creates greater resident representation >> on the board. It can enhance balance and bring additional perspective into issues since winning a majority of three versus
two votes typically requires more well more well-reasoned arguments. The prospects for greater collabor collaboration increases. In addition, with no more than two members elected each year, the board will be experience
greater stability and continuity. One possible downside to this meeting would be longer meetings. Um, those of you that remember the unc of Carolyn and Mark and going into 11 12:00 at night for almost every meeting with nobody
sitting in the audience was >> hopefully that we won't see that again. Yep. >> Uh in Deerfield, the absence of uh competition for flightman's race in the past elections should not be a deterrent as often times incumbents are viewed as
unbeatable. Instead, when the election opportunities have been created for new open seats, towns have had experience of multiple candidates coming forward. Um this is, you know, one of the changes I'd like to
see. Um what would happen with this is the board would have to approve to put it on the special warrant. Uh it' have to go to the town meeting. The special town meeting which we have in November can be presented there. Uh if the town does
vote to expand the board, then we have to have Christopher send a letter to Natalie and with the request so she can bring it to the general court because the general court has to approve it before it can go into effect. Hopefully they don't take a long time to
do that, but it's >> um >> okay. >> It's something that's, you know, I think is um people are unfortunately in town are under the impression that this is really
a part-time job. Uh those of us that sat in it know well that it's far from being part-time. Um the other advantage of going to a five member board is that legally right now two of you can't be talking about issues outside the
meeting, >> right? >> With a five member board, two of you can talk about it and that way sometimes you come into the meeting you're not completely cold on what's happening. So you know there's greater communications I think you know
legal communications. Um, we know that, you know, we all talked there's, you know, but, you know, alls it takes sometimes is one person to really squawk about it and put, you know, go to the ethics boards and cause all kinds of problems and we don't want that.
Um, the other change I'd like to see in the board is start to divest the board of health from the board. Um, this doesn't have to be from, well, I'm not sure. We'll have to investigate it more. But my suggestion is to create
a new chair for the board of health that's independent of the board itself. And then if we go with the five member board, two members of that board of the board would sit with that person for a monthly meeting. The chair of the board
of health actually there's all kinds of meetings that should be go be attended. I don't know if any of you are attending all of them, but it's very timeconuming. >> It is. Um, you know, Carolyn did a fantastic job doing it. Uh, without a
doubt. And um, other than too many topics of mosquitoes, but you know, that was just Carolyn. Um, it's I think it it's important that we do that. I don't think the board should relinquish all responsibilities of board of health. One
of the main reasons in my my thought process is when the pipeline was going to be coming through at Deerfield, we as a board stood up with all the different boards within Franklin County objecting to the pipeline. Wasn't until we did a little bit further
investigation and found out that if the board of health got involved with it and that's actually what stopped it. We actually hired a lawyer and they sued the pipeline company because the
pipeline was potentially going to def uh disrupt the aquifer going through the area Clark and stuff, >> right? Um, and there wasn't any fighting with that because they know from the history when they were putting in the power lines for the little bit of blasting that they
did, they changed the aquifer. With the massive blasting that they were going to do for the pipeline, it was going to be a whole different ball game. >> Yeah. >> And so we actually got the pipeline stopped. You know, there was other reasons. You know, they weren't honest with us. You know, they said nothing was going to be exported. Well, they were
going to export it. Yeah. So they couldn't take anything by eminent domain as they was threatening. Um and you know and you know people say well we got a moratorium here because of the pipeline. Well anybody that really knew that knew that
none of the gas coming through that pipeline was going to be used in Franklin County. There wasn't going to be any distribution here. It was all going >> way east. There was nothing here. The only thing we're going to have is compressor stations here. So >> um I think it's important that we look
and you know um address you know the board u you know there's other things you know the five member board can do you know do dealing with the sewer uh because that's very timeconuming as you well know Trevor >> but it's um but I would like to see the
board consider the five member board and uh consider putting it on the article for the town vote. I am um I've been torn about this issue a lot too. I think when I first ran 10 years ago or so it was um
prominent in my mind especially because that report you have I think was 05 >> 13 oh I'm sorry. >> Yeah. >> What date are we in for? >> What's what century is this? Yeah. >> Um so uh
>> yeah was it 13 or 15 they did that? It was what >> was it 13 or 15? They did 13. Yeah. >> That the uh I think I ran that the the do started doing it, >> right? >> It was all part of an evaluation of the town administrator. >> Correct. Yeah. >> Um but the problem was at the time in 13
when we had the well I call it the part-time administrator that was not forwarding information to the board. >> Right. >> As a board we never saw this document. >> Yeah. >> Until way later. >> Yeah. I remember that and I felt like um as I was running and starting to get
into government, I thought it made sense to have a five member board for a lot of the reasons you said. Um and now that I've done it for 10 years, I feel like um I still probably feel that way most of the time. Um,
I do have concern about the amount of work it adds to staff and the budgetary impact of that. Um, so I I feel like we should really flush this out like we should have a meeting with finance
committee on this subject. Um, we should pull the public. Um, but I think a vote on it should be at an annual town meeting because we get the most people there. Um, because it is such a serious subject um to change the
town government. So, I'm in I think I'm in favor of like let's do our homework and get um talk to finance, get public weigh in and put it on the annual town meeting vote. Um, but I can
be persuaded other ways. I just that's my two cents, but I didn't feel like >> my thought process is if we have an agreement to put it on the in an article on the the special um the the finance committee and the other committees would have a chance to
review it because we have a month and a half before that happens >> and you know it's just the finance you know committee uh can delve into it fairly quickly. Um, you know, the cost of it is, you know, a little bit. Uh, if
we go with the everything that I suggested, I I figured there's going to be 17 to $20,000 increase in the select board budget. >> Mhm. >> Um, which isn't a drastic amount of money for uh the and I think it's a big
bang for the buck that you would get. >> Yeah, I do. You know, again, my my concern a little bit is like how much, you know, how many how much it's it's tough for staff to handle three of us, then five of us is a little different animal as well. Um, but obviously it's
done in many many towns and figured out a way. >> Northfield did it a few years ago >> and they're smaller than us. >> The list of how many towns I was surprised how many do have versus uh three. I was thinking, well, you you get the first page, there's like three and
then three, three, three mostly and then all of a sudden there's just there are a lot of lot of communities that >> So, yeah. I mean, I I just did I'll pass >> I just did a quick, you know, numerical analysis and of all the towns that are smaller than us, I think there is 106.
Um there are I think 10 who have a five member board. Um, so the bulk of the communities that are our size or smaller have three members. I think there was one that had a two, which seems odd to
me. Um, but I do think the the colonel that Trevor mentioned for me is that let's let's actually have a conversation about, you know, finance committee. What is the uh pros and cons of this? Um I
don't know what a legis town legislative function whether the planning board has any uh they they organize our bylaws. I don't know that they have anything over this but um I would prefer to see it at an annual town
meeting as well and um then it has to go to the legislature. They have to approve it and you know so I think we need a little more work done ahead of time before we stick this on to a vote. uh special town meeting. That's that's my take.
>> What do you have for thoughts, >> Blake? >> Well, David's been bringing this up for a while and I I agree with what he's doing >> and uh I I asked him I I thought this had to go to an annual town meeting. He said, "No, I can put it on the special."
And um I definitely would like to see the finance committee and you know the personnel board or whoever else that we need to get involved in this and a public hearing >> prior to bringing to get a feel for what the town's looking for. And if that's the case, then we we move forward with
it. If we have the time to move forward with it before the special town meeting, I'm in favor of that. But I just don't know if we have the time even a month and a half for us. It kind of >> it goes fast. >> It does. It goes really fast. So, >> not like you have anything on your
agenda. >> You know, I would definitely say let's go with a >> um with the annual town meeting unless we can get our homework done sooner and get it in gear. So, >> yeah. The only thing I was thinking
about with the special was because if we went to the annual, we'd actually go through two two election cycles >> before it could come into play. >> Yeah. because I don't think it would be prudent to have a special election.
Um maybe yes or no. You know, that's not my call. That would be >> your call, Christopher's call. >> Yeah. >> Um it's um I know uh Julie Chowont has been working on a survey about moving town meeting.
>> Yeah. >> And I wonder if you know we could do the same for I don't know how she's had for responses at all yet. Um, but I wonder if we could do the same to kind of just get the pulse of the public a little bit on it. And um, and it could even be, you
know, if it wasn't a voted thing at at the special town meeting because things are coming up fast and we've got a lot of work to do for that. Um, if it could be a, you know, a a directive to the select board to move forward. Like you could get a vote of like not a binding
vote, but at least a vote of of the people that were there to to see if they're, you know, they're in favor of moving forward to to having it on the annual town meeting. Kind of get a couple of couple of pulses there. Um, I don't know how many it's it's I don't I can't judge
it. I mean, some people, I think, are going to really want to see, you know, diversity. And I think you're right. It would it would bring a little bit. You could have have to have three votes to get something to pass versus just two. Um, and, uh, you know, you wouldn't just have the one odd man out. You know,
you'd or odd woman out. You'd have an ability to have more diversity there, uh, of thought and all. Uh but then I I also wonder how many people want to see more of us, more select board members, but maybe if they feel like they're they have a say in a partnership in that
>> 3500 registered voters in Deerfield. >> Yeah, about closer to 4,000. >> Yeah, I was >> closer to four. >> I was just going to mention, you know, we've got a finance committee meeting on Monday night. We're going to be talking about the draft special town meeting warrant at that point. Um, but we'll
also likely talk about uh the survey that you mentioned. Um, and you know, maybe we can tie this into that conversation >> after that survey closes. Is there an opportunity to look at, you know, a second survey that maybe explores this issue and >> maybe some other changes that we're thinking about? So, >> Sure.
>> Yeah. Because the unfortunate part about it, and you all well know, >> of the close to 4,000 registered voters in town, >> probably about 1500,600 of them even know who they are. That's a great race actually if you get that many people out
voting. I mean I don't know. >> Yeah, we did with Tim and I vote >> yes turn out and with Blake and Carolyn. It was probably the highest turn. >> Wonderful. You know it was wonderful. Um yeah >> you know >> um >> and you know the town spoke and but like
I said you know you have that number of voters that actually came out and vote. They have an idea of who the hell you guys actually are. >> Yeah. A lot of the town doesn't. No, >> they're busy with their >> I mean, I was born and raised in this town and it's amazing the number of people that have no idea who the hell I am.
>> Sure. Yeah. No, a lot of her people are busy doing their own >> the comments. You're not Norm's son, are you? But that's a different story. >> Yeah. You deny that. >> Yeah. No, it's my twin that was his son, >> right? >> Yeah. I I mean, this is a big big
change. I mean, I don't necessarily have any issues with the concept and I'd like the people to decide it, but it seems like it's a big change and it should be done in a judicious manner. There's no urgency to say that >> right now we're in crisis because we have three people on the board and you
know, if we get five members, we won't be in crisis anymore. I mean, it's it's a let's take a deliberate approach to it. bring it to special annual town meeting in in April. And um because we're also going to have to bring that any changes that we do to when the
annual town meeting is held has to be changed statutoily because it's in our bylaws. So we put it all together in one package and get the legislature to approve it all at one time. Seems to be more efficient and make more sense. >> Yeah.
>> Um but you think the general court's efficient? >> No. No, but if you if you >> efficiently crew one thing and then you send them another thing that gives them two times to be less efficient. The other thing I'll say is that with a three member
board, two people have to pass it. That's 66% of the vote. >> With a five member board, only 60% have to approve it. So on some level, you know, >> if you look at it from percentage points, it's it's kind of counterintuitive that it would be that way, but um
>> true. Yeah. >> But anyway, I just think that >> it's a good idea. Let's look at it deliberatively and let's think so, you know, do >> it's been talked about for a very very long time. I mean, again, >> and I'd like to talk to Northfield and see what their experience is is because
they did it in 2019. I guess recent, >> you know, so they've got six years now of >> Yeah. >> Maybe there nobody on the Northfield board that was part of the board before then, but it'd be interesting to see what their perspective is on it. Yeah. >> Not that it would affect people's
ability to change the law here. >> Yeah. >> Good feedback. >> Okay. So, what uh you said Monday is the finance committee meeting, >> correct? Yeah. >> Okay. Yeah. >> Come to that one. So, we'll keep talking. >> Finance committee is Monday.
>> Yep. So, we'll we'll continue the conversation, I think. Yeah. >> Makes sense. >> So, >> well, thanks for >> I'll try to talk to Julie about it. >> Yeah, please do. >> Yep. and just see where we can go with it. And >> you know, it's like Tim said, there's no
sense in rushing into this. We want to do it right. >> Yeah. >> Um, >> let's, you know, but at the same time, get a feel as you're out there and you're talking to people. I know you've already started doing this, but get a feel of what the town's people are looking at. If they, right, >> if they if they're ho about it, then
that's one thing. But if you're in favor of it, that's great. >> Some people have made the comment, I only want the five member board because I want to run again. If I run again, my wife's going to hang me. >> You've got so much experience of what it is to be on this board that >> That's true. >> You know, I don't know that.
>> My wife does, too. And that's why she >> You are not doing this again. >> Yeah. >> No, if she's watching tonight, she'd probably be waiting for me when I get home. >> What are you even talking about this for? >> So, >> all right. Thank you. Okay. >> Yeah. Appreciate it. >> Thanks, I I think that the board of
health issue is an issue that we need to address and >> Yeah. And it's just, you know, and like I said, you know, if we >> can be >> designate somebody as the chair or board of health that is not actually a member of the board, >> right? >> It's somebody that you can appoint for one, two, three years, whatever you want.
>> Yeah. >> But it kind of separates it and >> my feelings was it takes a lot off the board itself. Yeah. >> Just by having somebody that's going to attend those meetings. >> There's a lot there's a lot to do. I mean, we get >> Yeah. We have a MAC meeting. We have the
VHRC meeting and I both I attend both of those. >> Yeah. It's and it's very timeconuming and people don't realize that. >> Yeah. >> You know the first time I ran they said well you only have a meeting every other week for a couple hours and that's all there is to it. >> Right. >> I
no >> that's not the way it is. >> It's not at all. >> But and it would also open up the possibility of getting somebody that actually has medical background. Absolutely. That could be >> right. you know, as you proposed a couple of select board members, sitting
on the board with somebody who's actually running the board >> is a lot easier than trying to make medical decisions that you may not be knowledgeable enough about. >> Yeah. >> Right. >> For sure. For sure. Yeah. It's time. That's definitely time.
>> Yeah. I I think, you know, I see a lot of advantages of it. There are disadvantages to it. Sure. I see it I think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. my opinion. >> I think you're right about that. >> So, >> yeah. >> Okay. >> Thanks, David. >> Okay. You have a good night. Thanks for coming.
>> Thanks, David. Y >> um >> we're on to select board reports and announcements. Um there's one thing here about a cable license renewal ascertainment hearing on October 7th. Yeah, just a a reminder, you know, we're
in the process of renegotiating the uh cable license with Comcast. Um, and our, you know, Tritown advisory committee has been meeting uh every couple weeks and Greg Sneder from our team has been kind of on top of that. Um, and this is just uh there's a there's a whole list in in
your packet there of items that are going to be addressed, right? Um but you know basically the idea is we're you know we're considering the benefits we get out of this uh current you know l license from Comcast. Um and of course we're also thinking about Epcat and the
services they provide to the town as well because that kind of goes hand in hand. >> Sure. >> Um so just wanted to kind of flag it for everyone and it October 7th over at town hall in Sunderland. >> That's great. I think uh that's wonderful. I mean, I've been hearing recently of just, you know, residents
completely frustrated with with the service that they have right now, and I can I can second that at the moment. Um, so yeah, I'm looking forward to that for sure, and I appreciate their work on it, and um Okay, any other uh select board
announcements? Yeah, I just have a comment and that's um the uh marathon this past weekend uh they had one of the runners go down and MRSA from the police department actually did CPR and uh the paramedics were right
on scene and when they left he had a heartbeat so it had stopped and they had uh >> done a an exemplary job. He's still recovering still in the hospital. So, >> but >> just kudos to the police department, the paramedics, and even the fire department
because I know they were all involved. And they got to this guy within two minutes is what I was told. >> That saves a life. >> Does. >> Yeah. >> The letter, I think. >> I think they used an AED on the person as well, you know, to shock the heart back, you know, to rhythm.
>> Um, so yeah, it was a great great thing. Uh I got an email from uh one of the runners, Deerfield runners that participated saying that uh in mile 12 she was running and then she saw this commotion up ahead and she wrote to I
think EMS and police and fire to thanked them for the uh the great job they did. >> Yeah, it's very very good. And I think um just the feedback I had was that it was well wellrun, no pun intended this year. the um you know it cleaned up
really well. I think I can't remember who had mentioned somebody had mentioned that it was you know well done. It clean cleaned up their you know cups and that kind of thing. And >> I think it it ended a lot faster because I think they were right on top of it because >> they had blocked off where I was and by
9:30 they go by me on River Road. Okay. I mean, I was just I was looking at the runners and there was a water station on the other side of the road and all of a sudden I see them picking up the water station. I say, >> "You're done." >> Yeah. >> Now, that wasn't the whole marathon.
They kept going, but even that was over fairly early. So, >> yeah, I think they were picking up once the last runner that was on a stretch that was no longer going to be returned to, they just pick it up and Right. Yeah. >> Did they leave one lane open so residents could >> Yes. Yeah. >> They had cones out. There were some
comments that people were upset that the roads were closed and that kind of thing, but um it it's you know it's I kind of feel like we we shut it down for a parade once in a while. Like it's we don't do this often and it's once a year and it is planned. I mean if you're
aware of social media at all or town government like it it's out there. I think I even got a text about it uh on our rave system. So I encourage people sign up for the raid system. you will get notified that, you know, things in the in the town are happening.
Especially if there's, you know, an emergency, it's really important to sign sign up to get those messages. You'll get a phone call or a text or something or an email um from chief or or sergeant when uh when they need to get something out. Um but I think it I think it runs
pretty well and um you know, it's not this isn't the Boston Marathon where you're shutting down from I don't know, Hopington to Boston. It's um you know it's a quick morning on a you know on a fall morning and I'm sure there's some inconvenience but it but I I think of
the economic development that it drives to the community of that many people coming to town and coming to our region and hanging out after and so >> and potentially saying geez I love it Deerfield's beautiful I want to move here. >> Yeah that would be nice >> so
>> yeah. Okay. So, um I guess my uh my dis uh comment is that I had a a meeting of the South County Senior Center last night, Board of Oversight, and um which I think is a thing on the agenda tonight as well, but we um so we tal talked a
bit about um 112 Ammerst Road building. We're looking at that. Um EDM um did a walk through. I met them uh with some others met them last week and they are looking through that building to understand you know
what are the requirements when a change of use has to happen does it need an elevator upgrade is it going to need sprinklers which I never even thought of um if you're going to have public in there it definitely changes things so there there's something about um looking into all those aspects and we're hoping
to get a report out real quick like very very top level uh I think next Wednesday we have a meeting on that. And then there's another one coming up, I think, at the uh sometime in in the beginning of October. And then we're also planning
uh beginning to plan some regional outreach um meetings. Uh one will be at Frontier in the evening for all three towns. There's another one at the at the Old Waitley Town Hall that's kind of during the day for people and then another one at the Sunderland uh
Congregational Church. So, even though we may not have an answer on, hey, we're going to 112 or um whatever we might do in the future, we're at least going to talk about the needs of the seniors, keep them centered and try to talk about, you know, what what we're all trying to do and hear
from the public, too, about what they need and what they would like to see. So, it's just continuing that conversation of moving something forward for our seniors. Lastly, we um the finance committee when we had a meeting, a shared meeting with them had really requested that we evaluate this building
at 8 Conway Street for um for a senior center as well and uh to do an assessment. What would it take? How much does it cost? Is it feasible? So, um, Christopher had reached out to to EDM and it had come up with an estimate and we have a we have a um a contract to
sign tonight to to do that evaluation here and the board of oversight last night had um had blessed that and kind of requested voted to to to go ahead with that. Um, the question there was cost. You know, I don't think the other
towns had the money. They just put it up for the 112. So, I know that Deerfield does have um some money. Wheatley may also too, but I don't think Sunan does have anything set aside, but I know we still have that grant. I I do want to have that meeting with capital if we
could get Right. Have other things for the meeting. >> Yeah. And on Monday at the finance committee meeting, I know they're going to, you know, organize and be able to designate their CIPC member. Great. >> Um and so Mark's going to schedule a meeting after that. So, we'll make sure that's on the agenda. >> That's perfect. That's perfect. So,
that's really just I'd like to just say that we're we're working towards this stuff, trying to find the ways to fund it and evaluate this space as well. And um so that's all I got to say on that. We'll get to that vote a little later, I guess. >> Yeah. >> Quickly um just want to say how amazing
um Mount Ford is. They're going through the 1888 building, lickickety split. Um >> looking good. >> The uh L is off the f first and second floors. Yeah. At least at least the second floor. Yeah. >> Yeah. The second floor I just read some
pictures. All brick. >> Wow. >> Um and yeah, they're just plowing ahead. They started work on the driveway. They tore up uh a lot of the per impervious pavement that was there where the new building is going to be built. So >> great.
>> Just continue to be pleased. >> Yeah, it's exciting to see see the town moving forward to our new home. It's going to be great. Really excited. Uh, anything else anybody have? >> Okay, that line. >> Okay, sounds good. Um, any board of
health stuff? I haven't uh Is is Ned back? Is >> Yeah, he's he's not available tonight unfortunately, but he has been he's been back in action. Yep. >> That's wonderful. Okay, good. >> I hadn't really, you know, I know that there is people, you know, in the papers you see West Nile really kind of, you
know, uh, coming around and people concerned about. Um, I have not been notified by John that we've had any hits in Deerfield currently. And it has been dry, which is really nice. We have not seen the rain, which is really good. Although, you know, it hasn't been cold
either. So, it's been it's been beautiful weather um this this fall here, which is really nice, but it hasn't uh we haven't had a ton of rain to kind of um continue with the mosquitoes. So, uh just keep an eye out. Always be careful, you know, this time of the night. Was it we need a frost for
that? Yeah. In the season. >> Hard frost. >> Yeah. Generally, we got probably another few weeks to go there >> at least. >> Um so I don't have any other board of health announcements or anything. Uh we have minutes to do. Um somebody want to
make a motion on those or I can >> Let's see. make a motion that we accept the minutes from August 28th, 2025, se September 3rd at uh 5:00 p.m.
>> September 3rd, executive session September 3rd, 2025 August 28, 2025 October 12th, 2021 September 22nd, 2021 September 8th, 2021. >> Second.
>> Any further discussions on those? Yeah, I got through most of them. >> Yeah, I did too. I didn't see anything that had any concerns with the older ones. Again, bring back the memories, but um
>> thankfully we're seeing fewer from 2021. >> Yes. Yeah. A little bit of the uh civil liberties stuff. Oh man. Yep. Then the Yeah. Different. Yep. Okay, good. I'm good. So, all those in favor? Blake Gilmore, I
>> Tim Hilchi, I >> Trevor McDaniel, I thank you all very much. Um, so I guess uh jumping into the EDM Studios uh senior center feasibility proposal in the amount of $15,000. I can make a motion on that for
discussion. Um, I move the select board approve the EDM studio senior center feasibility proposal for 8 Conway Street in the amount of $15,000 and authorize the town administrator to sign the contract amendment. >> You have a second. >> Second. >> Thank you. Any discussion or
>> can I just ask Christopher to talk a little bit about it? I >> Yeah, happy to. Um so you know obviously uh now that we are going to be moving into the 1888 building within you know a little more than a year um the questions opened up what to do with this space. Um
you know it's long been floated that you know maybe this could be used as a senior center with some adjustments. Um you know fortunately we've already done a lot of work around that. We had facility condition assessments done uh back in 2020 2019 I think maybe and then
uh you know an ADA self-evaluation done in 2020. Um so there's a lot of data on this building. We have the plans still from when it was renovated to serve as the town hall back in 1995. So you know EDM Studio did the the initial feasibility study um you know was just
amending their contract to look at this building as well. They looked at this site during the initial feasibility, but they looked at it as a site for a new building. So, this is really just a a renovation. You know, what what's the minimum we need to do to make this a viable space for the seniors? Um, and so
they'll be looking at that and uh, you know, they understand it's a similar kind of quick turnaround time that we're asking them for is for 112 Ammeris Road. Um, so Chris Wy's already been here poking around the building. Um, and he's going to probably be stopping by this week to look at some of the plans as
well. And I think it's fair to kind of talk about um you know some people will say well you just did a feasibility study again that was a two story. So there is there is um that whole feasibility study and assessments were
um what do the seniors need like based on population what people have said as far as what they want in a community. Um that all comes up with square footage. this place will not give us that all of those needs
or wants that the that the community wanted because we're not we don't have $15 million or $12 million to spend on a building. So whatever this comes up with, whatever 112 Ammeris Road comes up with wouldn't wouldn't meet those needs
of of what we had come up with or what that study had come up with, but it would be the best of what we could get out of this space at at a much reduced price and something that that could actually happen instead of just, you know, hey, this is what we all want. This is what we all need, but without
the funds, we can't do something like that. So we just want to find the best place suitable. we know won't have the best parking. You know, we you know, we need a lot more space for parking. We know that that was an issue when we looked at it even putting two stories up, but you know, we're going to do the
best we can with what we have and what we can do. And that's really all you can ever do. So, will it be everything we want? No. Will it fit every program we want to do? No. But it's going to be better than what we have. Just leave it at that.
>> So, all those in favor or any other >> I just had one final question. um the 15,000 is that going to be shared among the three towns at some point? >> I think what what we were looking like looking looking at and what Trevor was
alluding to was the town um you know a few years ago set aside some money specifically for senior center feasibility and that was Deerfield money uh that we're looking at. Um, and so I think the idea here was to simply drop in that pot. And so we'll be talking to CIPC to kind of get their blessing on
using that money. >> Okay. Yeah, I just want to clarify that because I I thought I heard >> some sort of discussion about that. And so that >> Thank you for the clarification. >> Thank you. >> So >> all those in favor? >> Blake Gilmore I. >> Tim Hilty I.
>> Trevor McDaniel I. Thank you all very much for that. Um, we do uh review a draft special town meeting warrant. >> I don't think Do we I didn't see one here. Do we? >> Uh, you should have a copy in your packet. >> I didn't get further into my plan yet.
>> My packet. >> And I can, you know, it's in very draft form at this point. So, I can just kind of run through some of the highlights. Um, you know, so just as a reminder, we've landed on uh I know the November date is still floating around, but it's it is October 29th, Wednesday, October
29th at Frontier Regional >> um at 6 p.m. Um so we've got just at the moment two placeholders at the top of the agenda for uh for the senior center. >> Um >> likely, you know, not going to be ready in time, but we'll you know, we've got
them there just for discussion purposes at least. Um, article three and article 4 have to do with the health insurance increases. Um, and uh, Trevor, you got a question? >> I just do. Um, I don't there was a meeting
I think this week. >> Yeah. >> About Maya, >> correct? >> And then and maybe you want to hit on that a little bit, but I and then I saw something about another increase coming in October, but that was what we just voted. Correct. >> Correct. Yeah. >> Thank you. I was like, are they talking
another another 20% now or 30% or something? Okay. >> Yeah. Yeah. There were increases in July and then then October as well. >> Gotcha. Okay. There's now a third on top of that. >> Correct. Yeah. Um, so articles three and four currently have placeholder amounts for the health insurance increase.
Sarah's going to know by the end of the month, you know, what new school employees are taking town insurance and then we'll have a solid figure. Okay. >> Um, so this number is totally in flux. Yep. Um, we've talked about whether or not, you know, we should take from free cash, um, or maybe try to use just
transfer some money because, you know, now that we're already a quarter into the year, there are some accounts where we can see some savings. Rec director, um, possibly highway payroll, depending on the collective bargaining agreement. Um, and then, uh, I think the vocational education account as well may have some
some room in it. Um, so we're we're still figuring it out with Brenda and Holly exactly what accounts to draw from, but that's the the general idea there. >> Okay. >> Uh, article five, your call back in the spring when Matthew first arrived here, uh, finance and like I think said, we
know you've got a lot of ideas and and and you know, purchases you might want to make and and we kind of want to give you a little time to settle in and then we'll consider your capital requests in the fall. So that's what we're doing. Um, Matthew has already submitted um these four requests to CIPC and again
Mark is just working to actually schedule a meeting uh once finance reorganizes. Um, so we've got loader repairs, uh, a sewer drain, vacuum, jet or truck, which it says free cash, but that would be I think from retained earnings on sewer.
>> That seems like woefully low compared to I mean generally those vehicle >> Oh, I was going to say they're usually like half a million dollars. >> Yeah. And I >> was saying that this thing is in great shape. The the town got a brand new truck and they're just getting rid of this one. >> That would be wonderful cuz those are a fortune.
>> That's what he said. That's what he was telling. >> Okay, great. >> Are we talking about the which one? >> The sewer sewer drain vac. Yeah. >> Then jitter truck. Yeah. >> Y >> that's wonderful. >> And the other thing that's, you know, really nice to see is that the effort was made to look what needs to be
repaired on the loader. >> Yes. >> Um because >> we've been asking about that. I look at the loader every time I go to the transfer station. I'm saying >> still working. >> It looks pretty darn good. And um so >> yeah, it did need some like joints and that kind of thing, >> you know. So I'm I'm pleased that we
delayed on the CIPC buying a brand new $400,000 loader. >> Mhm. >> That's great. >> Matt seems to believe that he's going to once he does these repairs, it'll be just as good as >> Wonderful. That's excellent. And then uh concrete sidewalk replacement plan. So
adding some some work. >> Yeah. So um you know we we used some chapter 90 money to actually have uh originally it was going to be beta group. I think now we're going with tyin bond to actually do a a comprehensive inventory of our sidewalks and then come up with sort of an overall maintenance
plan and replacement plan. Um you know this is a very kind of preliminary discussion. I know when Matthew and I have talked about it I've said a lot of these things can be grant funded. A lot of our sidewalks tie into our kind of complete street stuff or or any of that kind of stuff. So that's to say 50,000
from free cash. I I don't want to go there exactly. Um but he is just I think wants to get it on finance committee's radar, select words radar that it would be great to have a plan for how to invest in that part of our infrastructure because it is really important. It's not just about roads.
It's also important for pedestrians and and people with disabilities, etc. So >> yeah, >> done a lot of good work, you know, already. And we know we're holding off in this section with all the work in town. That was a plan, you know, to do the north end, but I know we have some sidewalks that are just kind of missing
in in old Deerfield as well, right? >> You know, if we could get a plan together and then talk with the nonprofits about some help there as well and >> uh do a partnership work on that. So that's great. Okay, good. And then one last capital request I'll mention uh because it was kind of arrived late and
it's not DPW but I know um Chief Jurich has asked about um you know some money for an architect for the the bay the >> right >> um >> Sallyport I guess is the phrase. >> Yes. >> Um to add on to that. Um so Craig and I
have been working on uh putting together a draft RFQ. I think it still bears some discussion with finance committee etc. Okay. Um but he uh he brought that to the table. So y >> be a topic of discussion as well. >> Okay. >> Um the next couple articles have to do
with uh the comet rock. Um right. So the survey up there is is is pretty much complete and at this point um Alex has been holding conversations with the utilities up there. We're just trying to get a sense of >> what space do they really need? You know, what can we what what needs to be
the exclusion area from article 97 designation. Um, >> does Delta Sand and Gravel also have a spot up there? I I remember they wanted to purchase some land and we did not at at several years back, but I just wanted to make sure that they had >> Yep. They have a a tiny little parcel
and they have a tower on that. Um, and some of the pertinances to that tower actually cross onto our land. Um, so >> we're going to be working with them as well and reaching out to them. Um and and actually the second article here article 7 um you know specifically after
looking at that after looking at the survey um you know what we identified is because the ser the the property lines are so vague I think it's you know quote unquote the brow of the mountain is is the line there um we're we'd likely give
just some kind of easement to delta sand and gravel so it's you know we're not dealing with oh this is encroaching on our property when we don't really know where the where the line is exactly. So, so Lisa's going to review that one, but uh that's probably going to be part and parcel of this this whole process. >> All right.
>> So, you know, more to come on that, but hopefully we'll have some some more concrete um you know, a map to plug in uh basically and get that put to bed uh by October 29th. And then the next um the next three articles there have to do
with Still Water. Um I did want >> these are the properties. >> Yeah. So, I did just want to give kind of an overall update on that. So, we uh we now have a you know there's a bill filed in the legislature. It's been assigned to a committee. I believe it's state administration and regulatory uh
compliance. Um and so they'll be holding a hearing at some point this fall on that bill. Um you know, we've we've sent uh EA everything they need for their part of the process. Um the sticking point at the moment, and I don't think it's going to hold up construction or anything, but it is something that has
to be worked out. Um, you know, we need an easement to access that property on a more regular basis. We have a right of entry currently. Um, but you know, it's not that property does not abut a road or anything like that at this point. >> The the one that which >> Oh, sorry. I should back up. This is I'm
talking about the mitigation parcel here. >> Mitigation parcel, right? Cuz that got wiped out in Irene, I think, of that access because it used to be a road that went in and it just got total >> correct. Yeah. >> Totally wiped out. So that land uh that we we we actually already have an
easement across it for for dyke maintenance purposes. Um it's doesn't appear that the town has been using it for dyke maintenance purposes for any significant amount of time. Um so you know working with Lisa we're talking about whether or not there's some kind of wiggle room there with that existing
easement. The challenge we run into is just that uh you know the parcel we're crossing is under APR. Um, and so that means you have to work with uh Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources and get their blessing. Um, so working through all that.
>> So there's there's from that road I thought we owned like from the road to the river in that spot, but no, we do not. No, >> there's a there's somebody else owns between that. >> Correct. Yep. >> Okay. Part of the fields there. >> Yeah. >> Cuz it's like right on the corner where
the river kind of I mean the river took a lot of it. Yeah. the property at the time. >> Yeah. Unfortunately, there's no there's no direct access currently. Okay. >> Um there is across that property, which again is not owned by us, is uh there's a dirt road that leads directly to a
foot path onto the mitigation parcel. >> Okay. >> Um so currently, uh DCR seems to have gotten at least the ascent of MDAR to allow them to use that as an easement. We're just trying to make sure that the town can as well. We would love to see I
know our open space committee would love to see you know public access and you know some kind of very passive you know recreational boating opportunities or something like that on that site. So we'll see what we can do. >> Okay. But if there wasn't it's not the
end of the world is it? >> Correct. I mean it's it's it's not it's not uh you know DCR would be happy to take it as a mitigation parcel under article 97 even if we can't get that. So >> um so these three articles basically
just deal with with those issues. Um you know the top one there has to do with um >> actually an an easement um that we identified from some encroachment uh from one of the the abutters onto the town property. Um so that's a conversation that needs to be had. But
you know it's basically there's a little farm road that it goes a little bit too far into our it goes onto our property the field there. >> Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Okay. Um and then uh the second article, article nine there has to do with actually um you know repurposing the uh the dyke easement um
for access. Um and then you know uh the last item has to do with basically a license for us to use um that easement um from MDAR given that they are it is an APR property so they have control over it in that sense. So, a lot there
and a lot to discuss, but uh working with Lisa on that over the next few weeks. >> Um and then the last couple uh you know, town items. Um this is just a placeholder, but uh you know, Alex has been starting conversations with folks on Elm Street.
>> Um for the most part, the way we want to, you know, approach that project is uh have friendly conversations with people, get rights of entry where we need them. Yeah. >> Um and then you know hopefully work with them because this is an opportunity for them to improve their facads and the kind of area in front of their
businesses as well. >> We did put a placeholder on here in case we do need to actually acquire full easements. >> You know, in all likelihood we'll take this off and if it's something we do need, we'll we'll deal with it at annual town meeting. But again, just a placeholder on here. >> Yeah.
>> And then uh article 12 is the last is the last one before citizens petition. Um that's just the the tax title payment agreements. Um again we you know this was a a little snafu and so we got to redo it. The the attorney general asked
us to. So >> um basically it'll give uh you know Sarah the authority to uh enter into tax payment agreements, tax payment agreements um with a set uh term of 10 years um or excuse me a set term of three years and a minimum initial
payment of 10%. I see. Um and so that's uh >> and that's really the work that the that they've worked out the state want us to kind of adopt. >> Yeah, correct. Yeah. >> Okay, that's good. >> So those are those are the town's articles and we did uh I believe just yesterday receive the citizens petition
that we had been anticipating regarding um energy code and excuse me decarbonization. Um so those are the last three articles on there and for the moment that's that's what we have for articles. So, any any other
questions from the board about this? >> No, I don't I don't think so. I think that's good. Thank you. Great. >> It's great work. I'm glad to see it flushed out there. And when do you need it? Um I mean, we opened the warrant, right? Already, didn't we? Or did we not? I don't think we did. >> Maybe you should open the warrant.
>> Probably should open the warrant. So, why don't we do that? Um, I'll make a motion to open the warrant for uh special town meeting which will be October 29th uh 2025 at um 7 is it 7 >> 6 p.m. at the Frontier Regional.
>> Second. >> Thank you. >> Any further discussion? All those in favor? >> Blake Gilmore I. >> Tim LG I >> Trevor McDaniel I. Great. So open warrant. >> Yeah. And then in terms of timing um you know we'll we'll close this on October
8th. So that'll be exactly three weeks prior. Um special town meeting you only need two weeks, but we'll we'll do the full three here. >> Um and so we should be uh should be in good shape, especially after conversations with finance on Monday. >> Yeah. >> Get their take on some of this stuff.
>> And you say close by October 8th, >> correct? Yep. >> Okay. All right, that sounds good. Let me just check one other quick thing here. Um, Monday and finance is what? 5:30 or >> That's at 5. >> 5. Okay.
>> That's on Monday. >> This Monday? >> Yeah. >> Yes. Yep. >> I'll be think I'll be home yet. >> All right. You're going to be Yep. >> Yep. >> back from Chicago. >> Okay. Um, great. >> So, we'll have a a short select board
meeting on October 8th. >> Yeah. So, and I think we maybe want to talk about the October schedule overall for the select board. Um, >> because we could have, you know, a meeting the 1st and the 8th and then,
you know, basically not meet again until special town meeting on the 29th. Um, given that, you know, Tim won't be available. >> Yeah, I could go for that. >> The 8th and then what do we have? So, the 15th we're not meeting >> the first. So, so normally we would be
meeting the 1st and the 15th I think, right? And then um but given that we have, you know, we could also just meet we're, you know, the 8th I think we're meeting because that's the last possible day we could do it with Tim here. >> Um and to close the warrant. >> Exactly. Exactly. That's precisely. Yep.
Um >> um >> and so we're not meeting the first. >> Well, we could meet the first. So that's a that's a question for the board. We've definitely definitely got some items piling up. So >> yeah, I'll let you. Yeah, if you feel like we need it, just >> Yeah, we can definitely do that. >> That's two weeks from now, >> right? Right.
>> So that would be a normal one and then do the 15th, but >> but we'll do the eighth instead because you'll be here and then we'll skip we'll skip this one. I'm going to delete that one because you're not going to be here. >> And then um then we could possibly meet the 22nd if
we had to do anything before town meeting or just meet on the 29th. Well, yeah, we could meet early on the 29th as well. Um, so at five or whatever. So, >> well, I'll leave it up to you if you guys need. >> You'll be back when? >> Uh, I'll be back like
25th. >> Oh, okay. So, you still won't be here on the 26th. Okay, great. I mean, 22nd. Sorry. >> So, anytime after, you know, the 26th, 27th, 28, 29. >> Yeah. Yeah. Okay, great. That's that's fine. All right. I'm good with that. >> Um Okay. So, we have Oh, sure. And then
um we have a oneday liquor license for Deerfield Academy. Um so I move that the select board approve a one day liquor license for Deerfield Academy for the date of October 28th, 2025. >> Second. >> It must be their family
weekend, right? Something like that. Uh okay. Any further discussion? >> Deerfield Club of New England. Let's >> see. Oh, yeah. Pest lobby. Yep. Um, any further discussion? All those in favor?
>> Blake Gilmore. I >> Tim Hilgi. >> Trevor McDaniel. Hi. Um so then the um next item is uh appointments and we have um Annette Fenbecker to be um appointed
to the Tri County Beach Commission. So that's exciting. I know that they uh I talked to um Patty and she said that they had they had recommended that we appoint her and asked us to do so. So um I I move that the select board appoint Annette
Fenbecker to the Tritown Beach Commission for the remainder of the term ending June 30th, 2026. >> Second. >> Any further discussion? I want to thank Annette for stepping up and and helping. And I I've heard uh just talking to to Patty that they've had a a record
setting year. Everything went really well. They are looking at maybe some capital to to extend that dock, that safety dock that we did partial um last year and she said it was just a really of course the weather's been great. But uh they had great turnout and uh just really excited for the for the year that
they had. So all those in favor >> Blake Gilmore I. >> Tim Hilchie I. >> Trevor McDaniel I. Um and then uh we have resignations. Um so I think there's been a you know a change
at the at the library trustees as they kind of gather and get everything together for kind of separating the trustees and the friends of the library or how however they say that. Um, so I I'll make a motion to um
I uh I move the select board accept the resignations of Nancy Maynard and Marjgerie Sheer from Tilton uh library board of trustees effective October 1st, 2025. >> Second. >> Thank you. Any further discussions or statements? >> I think they're going to be heading up
the not the friends but the other one where they're doing fundraising. >> The Tilton fund. Yes. Right. Yeah. I think of the friends of the library tilting >> fun separate the fun. >> Exactly. That trouble for a while. >> Yeah. Yep. Exactly. Good to see it
happening. So, um, all those in favor? >> Blake Gilmore. I >> Tim Hilchi I. >> Trevor McDaniel I. And then uh I don't know if this was unanticipated or not, but there's a I move the select board approve the Upper Pioneer Valley Veterans Services Intermunicipal
Agreement pursuant to Mass General Law Chapter 40 section 4A for the term of July 1st, 2026 through June 30th, 2028 and authorize the chair to sign set agreement. So this is kind of prepping for next July or should this say
>> Yeah. So, so basically, uh, this the district operates on on two-year agreements. Um, and so they're trying to get all the towns to sign off by April. So, we're way ahead of the game here. But, you know, it's it's that I don't think there are any real changes other than population
>> um that, you know, affect the assessment uh for the towns. And obviously, Greenfield continues to to pay the bulk here. >> Yeah. 56%. >> So, we're we're sort of just doing them a favor and getting it out of the way uh early in the process. That sounds good. And uh we had a
gentleman serving as a representative on that. Can't think of his name at the moment, but we're very excited that he was stepping up to do that. So, um Okay. So, um um so I've made the motion. Any We have a second. Somebody second already. >> Second. >> Okay. All those in favor?
>> Blake Gilmore. I >> Tim Hilchi. I >> Trevor McDaniel. I >> Maybe I can ask him the questions about that I was asking about earlier. Yes. Yeah, exactly. So, um 91 1720,
right? So, get that back in the folder. Um so, that's done. That's done. So, it looks like our votes are done. Although, we do have um want to talk about this um the funding for the DPC.
>> Sure. Yeah. And I was going to bring that up in my uh my report. So, We Yeah, we could talk about it now. Sure. Go ahead. >> Yeah. Uh, so obviously Eric Meals, our our chief wastewater operator, was here a couple weeks ago uh to talk with the board about u I think it's called a a
GAP 4 grant. >> That's right. >> Um, and you know, basically the idea with this particular grant is we would be applying for some uh electrical upgrades at Old Tierfield Wastewater Treatment Plant. Um, that would allow us to to really improve the efficiency uh
up there. for the moment. You know, the the ask um that DPC put together in the application is for $350,000. However, it's the project is a fair amount more expensive than that. Uh it's closer to a million. Yep. >> Um so, you know, obviously, you know,
Deerfield doesn't have that kind of money on hand. Um and so this is at least a springboard to conversation with some of our partners up there in Old Deerfield. >> Absolutely. Absolutely. Yeah. So, the it's really to kind of there are grants for the public. There's, you know, we're
we're looking hard at um old Deerfield upgrades uh for the sewage plant and we we had kind of settled on um and what we're waiting for now is a report on uh from our engineer on how we would tackle this in three phases. Um then the gap
the gap funding came out um a grant possibility came out to do some of the work that we are going to have to do anyways. So, we thought, well, why not apply for the grant uh uh to do to do this work and wrap it into phase one. Um, but it is a large chunk of money and
we don't have the full thing set out yet, but we thought, well, why not take advantage of the opportunity to apply if we get it um roll that into our phase one project. So, we have a lot of work still to do on on phase one. And then what I wanted to do is present to the
nonprofits a phase one, two, and three kind of a 10-year plan of how we would tackle the work up there um and trying to get get everybody on board to move forward and and hopefully if we get this it would help you know reduce the cost
of that phase. So, um, so I would, um, I would make a motion to approve the application, uh, for the and and for the funding for the GAP, uh, the GAP grant and, um, authorize this select board
chair to sign because I think my name was on the application so far, which we could change, but >> second. >> Any further discussion or questions? >> Okay. So is there is this like just >> we have no money >> straight up grant?
>> No. So the grant is uh so to do the work it's probably like $926,000. Um the grant we would get uh we're asking for is 350,000 of that. So uh the town is responsible or the partners that
would be funding the project are responsible for about 576,000 of that. So again, we don't have that kind of money uh appropriated or voted or anything yet. >> My question was the grant itself is not a matching grant.
>> Yeah, we have to match. So our match is 576. They give us 350. >> Okay. >> So uh you know it's some money. It's helpful. Uh we hope to help reduce the cost of the project for for all of us involved. But
I think our our idea is like let's let's apply for it and um >> see what happens. >> See what happens. And you know we we don't have to take it because if we don't have everything lined up in time but you know it'll take a while for them to approve and then >> you know hopefully we have some time to
decide and then time to do the project. So >> and can just a question um >> what are the statutory requirements for the size of the retained earnings in the in the sewer system?
>> Sure. Yep. The uh USDA wanted us to um while we have loans out to have enough operating retainment for about a year. I think it was about a million dollars. Brenda would know that number off the top of her head, but it was close to about a million dollars. And that's kind
of where we where our retained earnings are each year, kind of our free cash of the of the money. So, >> yeah, I was just I wasn't sure if um what that figure was, what whether it was one or 1.8 or
>> Yeah, it's it's a it's a little over one, I believe. >> Okay. >> The requirements are although >> Oh, I meant what we actually have. >> Oh, what we have. Yeah. Um >> it's not important. better answers on that next week when we >> Yeah, we we just had it certified, so I can pull it up in just a moment, but
>> that'd be great. Um, >> and then I guess well, on that subject, uh, well, let's let's vote this first. So, we have a second. Um, any further discussion? All those in favor? >> Blake Gilmore, I. >> Tim Hilchi, I. >> Trevor McDaniel, I. Thank you very much.
Um, I'll get that signed. Um, while we're on the subject, we're we're kind of working on uh gathering the information for and we've signed a contract with our engineers to help us, you know, set it set the rates coming up. Um, we've gathered up that information. Uh, Brenda, I've seen some emails flying back and forth with Sarah
and Christopher, um, getting them the numbers that we need and then we then kind of decide what the rate's going to be for the coming year. and and we still have to talk about um you know what kind of projects we want to work on. Th this
project um effluent pipe is still there. Uh I went down I tried to get to it there was too much poison ivy so I was like not happening but the river was so low like you could walk out that first channel was completely dry but it just didn't get me there. >> So and I didn't want to get into the
poison ivy but um >> you know it it it's working fine. the water goes out to the river. No real huge issue, but eventually we've got to get working on a an opportunity to do that. So, um, so there there's that project and um, you know, there's other stuff, but really we really want to turn
our attention to Old Deerfield and get that plant up and running. talking with Eric, you know, it's it's bubblegum and duct tape and, you know, they're doing everything to hold that together and it's really the the electrical that is the concern there and
the getting the rags and stuff out. So, I think this this project here will go a long ways to helping with that. Um, >> so we'll have some meetings coming up shortly and then we have a rate hearing next month. So, um, is it next month or is it November? So, we'll have we'll
have Dave here either the 1st or the 8th depending on that. And then the I think the radio hearing is going to be November 12th. I think that works for your schedule, right, Tim? And Oh, yeah. Yeah. So, >> great. >> And just uh just to close the loop, so what we had certified for retained
earnings this year was $989,568, >> right? >> So, pretty close to that million. >> Yeah, it was a little >> You said the 12th. >> The 12th. >> November. >> I got the 19th already written down for that. Oh, I think I think we ended up wanting to move it because Tim was gonna be >> I could do I Let me look. I think I
could do either date. It's the 17th that I'm not around. Um >> Oh, maybe. Okay. Maybe I got that uh that >> mixed up. >> So, what is it? >> So, uh we're looking at November 12th, but if you want to do November 19th,
that could work as well. >> Written there. I can do it. >> The 12th would be better. Like the sooner the better because Sarah's then got to get all her stuff done before Thanksgiving. >> It's we got to thread the needle because we got to get everything from the water district. >> Correct. It's a balance. >> Yeah. And we could couple that with the
select board meeting. >> Yes. >> That's already scheduled. >> Yep. Exactly. Um >> I know. used to get out of here and it was nice. I mean, it's been a long meeting here, hour and a half. Um, do you do you want to hit on anything or ju
>> just a just a couple quick things, just some project updates. Um, so obviously, uh, as Tim mentioned, work is proceeding very quickly at the 1888 building. Um, we had a construction meeting this week, actually in the building, which I was like, are we sure we want to do this?
But it was cool to see. And uh you know, we're going to have um you know, P3's uh you know, guy who's going to be there daily is going to be sending around photos at some point so we can all take a look at the work as it unfolds. >> Um >> be nice to post that too, like begin with we kind of kind of had a a weekly or monthly.
>> Exactly. Yeah. Yeah. And especially because it's such a beautiful building. It's so interesting seeing the inside of a building that was built in 1888. So, >> did they find any money in the wall? Just wondering if we had some extra fun. >> They they Well, I mean, they did find some scrap metal. So, uh, you know,
that'll go for something. Um, >> but in but in all seriousness, so I mean this is the the time in the project when you kind of expect change orders to happen. You open up walls and find things that were hidden. Um, so we do have some change orders that are being processed. Um, total right now is about
25,000. So given that the project came in, you know, couple million under budget, we're we're doing okay. But, uh, just wanted to make folks aware. Um they have started ripping up the space as Tim mentioned where the addition is going to go and also the new driveway uh on
Conway. So um you know things are really moving along over there >> and uh if anyone wants to come by a construction meeting, you know, we can set it up and >> I don't know how much longer they're going to be in that building because uh >> trailer pretty soon. >> Yeah. >> But uh we'll see. >> And I saw the the police have their
temporary, you know, access. >> Correct. Yep. Yeah. because that um they're you know once they actually have to you know start putting things in for the addition that you know the fencing is going to probably have to shift a little bit. So we want to make sure there's still fire and emergency access to this this building for sure.
>> Um so that's that's going uh going right along. Um and then I did want to also mention landfill solar. Um so we've got um you know approved payment and performance bonds from Nex Amp. We've got a decommissioning plan. So, you know, exactly how they will get rid of
the solar field in 20 30 years. >> Um, and so at this point, they're just dotting their eyes and crossing a couple tees. And then their plan is for this fall to actually build that access road. Okay. >> Um, and then after that, probably in the spring, they'll actually get to work on
the the array itself. Um, so that's that's kind of the the the aim right now with that project. >> Um, and then I I don't think I have uh a lot else. I you know I guess I just mentioned Tilton Library because you know it's we've been talking about it a lot. Um the new elevator drawings shop
drawings were correct and they are approved and uh and they've they've gone out. So um so you know basically now we're we're waiting for that elevator to come in and I know the the library is planning on moving into that first floor space um in November I think is the is
the current timeline. So >> okay >> um so we'll uh look forward to it. It sounds like it's a it's a beautiful building. If you haven't been in, you know, get a tour from Bob or or someone from VA. >> Look good. Have you been in? >> It's exciting. >> I haven't. >> Oh, >> okay. We're gonna have to
>> Yeah, maybe maybe closer to Thanksgiving, we Aliana can get a tour of the new building. So, >> nice. >> And that's uh that's all I have. >> Great. Thank you so much. Thanks. Thanks to the staff and everybody for doing their their hard work. And I know Brenda's been working great with Holly
and Holly's picking up quick and fitting in the groove and moving into the family, which is great. It's just really nice to have her here. And um so uh any other business? No. All those uh take a motion to adjurnn. >> Motion to adjurnn.
>> Second. >> All those in favor? >> Blake I. Tim Milchie. >> Trevor McDaniel. I thank you all very much. Have a good night.