Deerfield public meetings in 2025

Conservation Commission

The Deerfield Conservation Commission will hold a public meeting to review two Requests for Determination of Applicability under the Wetlands Protection Act for the properties at 0 River Road and 24 Steam Mill Road. The commission will also reopen a public hearing on a Notice of Intent for new playground surface and equipment at 21 Pleasant Street. Additional agenda items include an enforcement order for 89 Whately Road, anticipated RCOCs for 281 Greenfield Road, and steps to establish a Conservation Fund.

• RDA for 0 River Road – request to determine Wetlands Protection Act applicability
• RDA for 24 Steam Mill Road – request to determine Wetlands Protection Act applicability
• Reopened public hearing on Notice of Intent for playground at 21 Pleasant Street
• Form 9/Enforcement order for 89 Whately Road
• Anticipated RCOC for 281 Greenfield Road

The Deerfield Conservation Commission approved the Notice of Intent #142-0249 for a new playground surface and equipment at 21 Pleasant Street, with revisions and standard conditions. The motion passed with a 2-1-1 roll‑call vote. Earlier, the commission also approved two Wetlands Determination requests for 0 River Road and 24 Steam Mill Road, each unanimously.

• Approved revised NOI #142-0249 for 21 Pleasant St playground (2-1-1)
• Approved RDA for 0 River Rd, Form 2 Negative 3 with licensor condition (4-0-0)
• Approved RDA for 24 Steam Mill Rd, Form 2 Negative 3 with standard conditions (4-0-0)
• Ratified Form 9 enforcement order for 89 Whately Road (4-0-0)
• Accepted minutes from 11/20/25 with minor revisions (3-0-1)
• Closed hearing on 21 Pleasant St NOI (4-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:07 pm (4-0-0)

Energy Conservation Committee

The Deerfield Energy Conservation Committee will meet remotely to review draft minutes, discuss energy storage grants, and review the Climate Leadership Program. The agenda includes updates on the Green Communities application and a report on previous grant work.

• Review draft minutes
• Energy Storage grants discussion
• Climate Leadership Program review
• Green Communities application update
• Ted Harvey and FRCOG final report

The Deerfield Energy Conservation Committee approved the September and October meeting minutes by unanimous vote. The committee also unanimously approved a motion to adjourn the meeting. No other actions were formally decided.

• Approved September and October minutes (unanimous)
• Approved motion to adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Selectboard and Board of Health will meet to vote on a property sale and an entertainment license. The Board of Health will conduct a first reading of regulations regarding fats, oils, and grease subsurface disposal.

• Vote on sale of ±0.184-acre parcel on Jewett Avenue to ORAFOL Americas Inc. for $50,000
• Vote on Tree House Brewing Company 2026 Entertainment License
• First Reading of Draft Board of Health Fats, Oils and Grease (FOG) Regulations
• Hearing from Ken Elstein regarding a proposed Nicotine Free Generation (NFG) policy
• Personnel Board recommendation of a 1% Cost-of-Living Adjustment for Fiscal Year 2027

The board unanimously approved the meeting minutes. It approved a 2026 entertainment license for Tree House Brewing Company with detailed conditions. It awarded a $50,000 surplus property parcel on Jewett Avenue to ORAFOL Americas Inc. It also approved participation in the FY27 Franklin Regional Council highway bid.

• Approved minutes as presented (3-0-0)
• Approved 2026 Entertainment License for Tree House Brewing Company with conditions (3-0-0)
• Awarded surplus property (Tax Map 169, Lot 186, ~0.184‑acre on Jewett Avenue) to ORAFOL Americas Inc. for $50,000 (3-0-0)
• Approved participation in FY27 FRCOG Highway Bid and authorized chair to sign memorandum (3-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:24 pm (3-0-0)

Community Preservation Committee

The Deerfield Community Preservation Committee will examine the finalized CPC plan. It will also consider applications for Laurel Hill Cemetery, Tack Painting, and the Conservation Fund. Additional agenda items include appointing a new clerk and a brief update on the 2025 Mass Trails grant.

• Appoint a new clerk
• Review finalized Community Preservation Committee (CPC) plan
• Discuss Laurel Hill Cemetery application
• Discuss Tack Painting application
• Discuss Conservation Fund application

The committee accepted the amended minutes from 11‑12‑2025 and appointed Geoff Brown as clerk. It unanimously approved the finalized CPC Plan and voted to table actions on the Laurel Hill Cemetery and the Augustus Vincent Tack painting applications. The CPC also approved an $18,000 match for the Mass Trails grant and adjourned the meeting.

• Accepted amended 11‑12‑2025 minutes (4 YES, 3 abstentions)
• Appointed Geoff Brown as Clerk (6 YES, 1 abstention)
• Approved and published the CPC Plan (unanimous)
• Tabled vote on Laurel Hill Cemetery CPA Application (unanimous)
• Tabled action on Augustus Vincent Tack painting application (unanimous)
• Approved $18,000 CPC match for Mass Trails grant (Town approved in April meeting)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

South County Emergency Medical Services Board of Oversight

The South County EMS Board of Oversight will approve minutes from its October 7, 2025 meeting. It will receive updates on vehicle replacement and review the preliminary FY27 budget and FY27 capital plan. Any additional new business may be addressed as time permits.

• Approval of minutes from October 7, 2025 meeting
• Vehicle replacement update
• Preliminary FY27 budget discussion
• FY27 capital plan discussion

The board unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting. No vote was taken on any specific capital‑improvement items. Fred Baron was tasked with contacting Whately town administration and the Board of Selectmen to determine if garage space is available for an additional EMS vehicle. The next meeting was scheduled for Tuesday 1/13.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• No vote on Capital Improvement Planning items
• Assigned Fred Baron to follow up on possible Whately garage space
• Scheduled next meeting for Tuesday 1/13

Board of Assessors

The Deerfield Board of Assessors will meet to review minutes, handle payables, and consider motor vehicle abatement requests. The session will include an executive session to discuss matters related to Chapter 59, section 60.

• Review minutes from 11/18/2025 and 12/09/2025
• Review motor vehicle abatement requests
• Consider business certificates and payables
• Executive session on Chapter 59, section 60 requirements

The Deerfield Board of Assessors approved the minutes of the November 18, 2025 meeting with a 2‑0 vote. The minutes from the December 9, 2025 meeting were held over and not approved. No other substantive actions or decisions were recorded.

• Accepted minutes of 11/18/2025 (2-0)
• Minutes of 12/09/2025 held (no vote)

Personnel Board

The Personnel Board will discuss cost-of-living adjustment recommendations and review the classification and compensation schedule. The board will also hear testimony regarding EMS bereavement leave and pay rates.

• Proposed Personnel Manual amendments for EMS bereavement leave, hours, and rates of pay
• Review of cost-of-living adjustment recommendations
• Job description reviews for Police Department Assistant, Conservation Agent, and Principal Assessor
• Review of classification and compensation schedule

The Personnel Board approved the minutes from the August 19 and November 17 meetings. It voted 3‑0 to recommend a 1% cost‑of‑living adjustment for FY27, which would add about $13,000 to the budget. The board also approved the Conservation Agent job description (3‑0). The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved August 19, 2025 minutes (2-0-1)
• Approved November 17, 2025 minutes (2-0-1)
• Recommended 1% COLA to Selectboard for FY27 (3-0-0)
• Approved Conservation Agent job description (3-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0-0)

1888 Building Advisory Committee

The 1888 Building Advisory Committee will review the minutes from its November 14, 2025 meeting. It will receive updates on Project P3, including construction and budget status, and discuss a USDA Rural Development reimbursement and a rooftop solar proposal. The committee will also consider other project updates and schedule its next meeting.

• Review minutes from the November 14, 2025 meeting
• Construction updates for Project P3
• Budget updates for Project P3
• Discussion of USDA Rural Development reimbursement
• Discussion of rooftop solar installation

The 1888 Building Advisory Committee approved the November 14, 2025 minutes with a 4‑0‑1 vote. The meeting was then adjourned at 10:29 am with a unanimous 5‑0‑0 vote. No other actions were decided.

• Approved November 14 minutes (4-0-1)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0-0)

DEDIC

The Deerfield Economic Development & Industrial Corporation Committee will hold its regular meeting. The agenda includes routine reports from the secretary, treasurer, and chairman, an update on the 2025 economic development plan submitted to the state, and a discussion of an inquiry regarding the property at 20 Industry Drive West. Public comment and any other business will also be addressed.

• Secretary’s Report – approve minutes and due diligence list
• Treasurer’s Report
• Chairman’s Report – update from Economic Development Planner Alex Galloway
• 2025 Economic Development plan sent to state
• Inquiry – 20 Industry Drive West

The committee approved the draft minutes for the October 8, 2025 meeting with four votes in favor and one abstention. Alex Calloway was assigned to contact Atlantic Furniture, LLC about a potential 10‑acre development. Treasurer Rick Andriole volunteered to attend the January 11, 2026 public forum and to review the draft outline. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Approved draft minutes (4 yes, 1 abstention)
• Assigned Alex Calloway to discuss land opportunity with Atlantic Furniture, LLC
• Rick Andriole volunteered to attend public forum and review draft outline
• Motion to adjourn meeting approved unanimously

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Deerfield Selectboard, Board of Health, and Sewer Commissioners will vote on the Fiscal Year 2026 Sewer Commitment. They will also vote on Sewer Auto Abatements. Public comment has been suspended and will resume at the next regular meeting. The meeting is held in a hybrid format with both Zoom and in‑person attendance.

• Vote on Fiscal Year 2026 Sewer Commitment
• Vote on Sewer Auto Abatements

The Deerfield Selectboard authorized the Collector/Treasurer to collect $1,078,086.15 from 972 sewer bills for the FY 2026 commitment, with a unanimous 3‑0‑0 vote. It also approved a sewer auto‑abatement for qualifying single‑family owner‑occupied properties totaling $96,987.39, also by a 3‑0‑0 vote.

• Authorized collection of $1,078,086.15 from 972 sewer bills (3-0-0)
• Approved sewer auto‑abatements totaling $96,987.39 (3-0-0)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Deerfield Selectboard will hold a Tax Classification Hearing on December 10, 2025 at 5:30 pm. The hearing will provide an open forum to discuss local property tax policy and consider whether the five property classes—residential, open space, commercial, industrial, and personal—should be taxed at the same rate or at different rates. Members of the public may submit written or oral statements, which will be considered by the board.

• Tax classification hearing to consider equal vs. differentiated rates for residential, open space, commercial, industrial, and personal property classes
• Public may submit written statements before or during the hearing

The Selectboard voted to adopt a single property tax rate of $13.45 per $1,000 of assessed value for Fiscal Year 2026, as recommended by the Board of Assessors. The motion to close the FY26 tax classification hearing was approved unanimously. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Adopt single FY26 tax rate of $13.45 per $1,000 (3-0-0)
• Close FY26 tax classification hearing (3-0-0)
• Adjourn meeting at 5:40 pm (3-0-0)

Board of Assessors

The Deerfield Board of Assessors will meet with the Selectboard to conduct a Town Classification Hearing. The meeting will be held in-person at the Main Meeting Room of the Town Hall at 8 Conway St. and is also available via Zoom.

• Joint meeting with Selectboard for Town Classification Hearing
• Hybrid meeting format with in-person and remote participation
• Meeting ID: 911 604 1580 Passcode: 570012

The Deerfield Board of Assessors met jointly with the Select Board for a town classification hearing. After reviewing the split tax rate options table, the Select Board voted to set a single tax rate of $13.45 per $1,000 for the average single‑family property. No other actions were taken.

• Adopted single tax rate of $13.45 per $1,000

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will hold three classification hearings: one with the South Deerfield Water District, one with the Deerfield Area Fire District, and one with the South Deerfield Fire District. No decisions are listed, only the hearings themselves.

• Classification hearing with South Deerfield Water District at 6:00 p.m.
• Classification hearing with Deerfield Area Fire District at 6:15 p.m.
• Classification hearing with South Deerfield Fire District at 6:30 p.m.

The Deerfield Board of Assessors approved a single tax rate of $0.99 for the S. Deerfield Water District (2‑0 vote). It also approved a single tax rate of $0.45 for the Deerfield Area Fire District (3‑0 vote). Finally, it approved a single tax rate of $0.96 for the S. Deerfield Fire District (2‑0 vote).

• Approved single tax rate $0.99 for S. Deerfield Water District (2-0)
• Approved single tax rate $0.45 for Deerfield Area Fire District (3-0)
• Approved single tax rate $0.96 for S. Deerfield Fire District (2-0)

Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP)

The Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness Core Group will vote to adopt the minutes from the October 8, 2025 meeting. The board will receive updates on the MVP 2.0 and FY25 action grants, including landowner outreach for Deerfield River floodplain protection and a public information session on January 27, 2026. Additional discussion will cover feedback on the ECO OneStop grant, federal funding status, and the first phase of PL‑566.

• Vote to adopt MVP minutes – 10.08.2025
• Update on landowner outreach for Deerfield River floodplain protection
• GZA public information session scheduled for January 27, 2026 at 4:30 pm
• EOI feedback and next steps for ECO OneStop grant (account setup, grant sections, funding differentiation, culvert prioritization, application timeline)
• Update on federal funding and status of the Environmental Bond bill

The Deerfield Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness group approved the December 10, 2025 minutes, correcting Kasey Taylor's name and title, with a unanimous vote. They agreed to hold the next meeting on January 12 at 4 PM. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved December 10 minutes with correction to Kasey Taylor’s name (unanimous)
• Set next meeting for January 12 at 4 PM
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Deerfield Board of Assessors will consider old business items such as the minutes from the November 18, 2025 meeting and any business held over. New business includes administrative matters like payables, business certificates, recent deeds and permits, FY 2026 recaps, and the Principal Assessor job description. The board will also hear motor vehicle abatement and exemption requests and will hold an executive session under MGL c.30A §21(a)(7).

• Review minutes from the 11/18/2025 meeting
• Consider FY 2026 recap items
• Discuss Principal Assessor job description
• Consider motor vehicle abatement/exemption requests
• Executive session pursuant to MGL c.30A §21(a)(7)

The Board of Assessors reviewed FY 2026 recaps, business certificates, recent deeds, plans and permits, and the Principal Assessor job description. The clerk was instructed to edit the job description and send it to the Assistant Town Administrator. Motor vehicle excise abatements were processed using a signature stamp. The meeting concluded with an executive session under MGL Chapter 59, Section 60.

• Reviewed FY 2026 recaps (reviewed)
• Reviewed business certificates (reviewed)
• Reviewed November deeds, plans, and building permits (reviewed)
• Clerk to edit Principal Assessor job description and pass to Assistant Town Administrator (task assigned)
• Processed motor vehicle excise abatements per attached list (completed)
• Entered executive session pursuant to MGL c. 30A §21(a)(7) and MGL Chapter 59 §60 (opened)

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will hold its monthly meeting to review minutes and budget reports. The body will discuss updates on CPC applications, Form B research, and signage for veterans.

• CPC applications update
• Form B research information
• Deerfield veterans signage
• Town Common discussion

The Deerfield Historical Commission accepted the minutes from the November 10, 2025 meeting, pending confirmation of the current balance. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 6:37 PM. No other actions were approved, denied, or tabled.

• Accepted November 10, 2025 minutes (pending balance confirmation)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The board will hold a public hearing on a special permit application submitted by Gary Beaudry for a multi‑family dwelling at 7 Thayer Street in the CVRD district. The hearing is scheduled for Thursday, October 16, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. The meeting also includes routine items such as approval of the November 6, 2025 minutes and other procedural business.

• Special Permit hearing for 7 Thayer Street – multi‑family dwelling (applicant Gary Beaudry)
• Approval of minutes from the 11/06/2025 meeting

The Zoning Board approved the minutes from 11/06/2025 by a 4‑0‑0 vote. It then voted 4‑0‑0 to continue the public hearing on the special‑permit application for 7 Thayer Street to January 14, 2026 at 6:30 pm. The meeting was adjourned after a unanimous 4‑0‑0 vote.

• Approved 11/06/2025 minutes (4-0-0)
• Continued 7 Thayer Street special‑permit hearing to Jan 14 2026 (4-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0-0)

South County Senior Center Board of Oversight

The South County Senior Center Board of Oversight will approve draft meeting minutes and receive updates from the Intermunicipal Agreement (IMA). It will also discuss matters related to 112 Amherst Road in Sunderland and outline upcoming community forums. Public comment will be limited to two minutes per speaker, up to a total of twenty minutes.

• Approval of draft minutes
• Public comment period (2 minutes per person, total 20 minutes)
• IMA updates
• Discussion regarding 112 Amherst Rd., Sunderland
• Planning of community forums

The board approved the draft minutes for the July 7, July 22, August 7, September 24, October 2, and October 16, 2025 meetings by a unanimous vote. No other formal actions were taken; the board discussed the 112 Amherst Road property and announced upcoming community forums. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved draft minutes for six prior meetings (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Selectboard and Board of Health will consider several items, including a vote to adopt updated sewer regulations that would become effective on January 1, 2026. They will also vote on amendments to the South County Senior Center inter‑municipal agreement and discuss revisions to the entertainment license for Tree House Brewing Company concerning noise restrictions. Additional agenda items include a vote on other liquor and entertainment license renewals, public comment, reports, and routine administrative updates.

• Vote on adoption of sewer regulations (effective Jan 1 2026)
• Vote on amendments to South County Senior Center inter‑municipal agreement
• Discussion of Tree House Brewing Company entertainment license noise restriction revisions
• Vote on other liquor and entertainment license renewals

The Selectboard, acting as Sewer Commissioners, adopted the Sewer Use Regulations to take effect on Jan 1 2026. The board also approved amendments to the South County Senior Center Inter‑Municipal Agreement after Whately and Sunderland signed on. All 2026 liquor, entertainment, food‑service and other licenses were renewed, with Tree House Brewing Company excluded from the entertainment renewal. Each action passed unanimously (3‑aye, 0‑no, 0‑abstain).

• Adopt Sewer Use Regulations effective Jan 1 2026 (3-0-0)
• Approve amendments to South County Senior Center Inter‑Municipal Agreement (3-0-0)
• Approve renewal of all 2026 liquor and entertainment licenses (excluding Tree House Brewing) (3-0-0)
• Approve renewal of all 2026 Board of Health licenses (food service, tobacco, ice rink, etc.) (3-0-0)
• Approve minutes from prior meetings (3-0-0)
• Adjourn meeting (3-0-0)

Library Board of Trustees

The Library Board of Trustees will consider the minutes from its November 5, 2025 meeting and vote to approve them. The board will hear a Director’s Report and receive updates, news, and announcements. The meeting will conclude with scheduling the next session for January 7, 2026.

• Review and vote on minutes from the November 5, 2025 meeting
• Director’s Report
• Updates, news and announcements
• Set next meeting for January 7, 2026

The board unanimously accepted the November 5, 2025 minutes. They approved holiday bonuses of $300 for the director, $100 for each full‑time staff member and $50 for each part‑time staff member, totaling $750. The motion was carried.

• Accepted November 5 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved holiday bonuses totaling $750 (motion carried)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Deerfield Selectboard and Board of Health will meet remotely on Dec 2, 2025. After a call to order, public comment is suspended. The only discussion item is an executive session with the Town Administrator, Superintendent of Public Works, and Town Counsel to discuss strategy for collective bargaining with United Public Service Employees Union Local 424M‑MADIV‑118 of the Deerfield Highway Department. No other agenda items are listed.

• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy with United Public Service Employees Union Local 424M-MADIV-118 (Deerfield Highway Department)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will conduct classification hearings for the S. Deerfield and Deerfield Area Fire Districts. The body will also review motor vehicle abatement and exemption requests.

• S. Deerfield Fire District Classification Hearing
• Deerfield Area Fire District Classification Hearing
• Motor Vehicle Abatements
• FY 2026 Recaps
• Principal Assessor Job Description

Board of Assessors

The Deerfield Board of Assessors will hold a tax classification hearing for the South Deerfield Fire District. The hearing will consider the district’s tax classification status. It is scheduled for December 2, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. in the Assessors’ Office at 8 Conway Street.

• Tax classification hearing for South Deerfield Fire District (84 Greenfield Road)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Selectboard and Board of Health will consider a vote to provide a letter of support and certify the Energy Conservation Committee’s Decarbonization Roadmap Assistance Application. The item seeks the town’s endorsement of the committee’s request for assistance with its decarbonization roadmap. No other substantive items are listed.

• Vote on Energy Conservation Committee Decarbonization Roadmap Assistance Application – letter of support and certification

The board voted to approve the Energy Conservation Committee’s Decarbonization Roadmap Assistance application, providing a letter of support and certification. The motion passed unanimously with three ayes and no nays or abstentions. The board then adjourned the meeting unanimously.

• Approved Energy Conservation Committee Decarbonization Roadmap Assistance letter of support (3-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0-0)

South County Senior Center Board of Oversight

The South County Senior Center Board of Oversight will meet to consider the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property. This item will be discussed in an executive session with the Center Director present.

• Executive session regarding the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property

The South County Senior Center Board of Oversight met remotely on November 24, 2025. An executive session was convened to discuss the 112 Amherst Road property under M.G.L. c.30A §21(a)(6). No decisions, votes, or approvals were recorded.

Planning Board

The Deerfield Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a special permit application from Sugarloaf Development, LLC for a three‑story mixed‑use building with ground‑floor commercial space and twelve residential units at 2 Sugarloaf Street. The agenda also includes a discussion of ANR Mountain Road, Map 173 Lots 50 & 51, review of the November 3, 2025 meeting minutes, and other routine items. The board will set the next meeting for December 1, 2025.

• Special Permit for 2 Sugarloaf Street: three‑story mixed‑use building, 12 residential units
• ANR Mountain Road, Map 173 Lots 50 & 51
• Review minutes from 11/03/25 meeting
• Review mail: abutting town hearing notices & decisions
• Next meeting scheduled for 12/1/2025

The Planning Board accepted the November 3 minutes, endorsed an ANR lot‑split on Mountain Road, and unanimously approved a special permit for 2 Sugarloaf Street that includes a legally binding parking agreement. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted minutes of 11/03/2025 (5-0-1)
• Endorsed ANR plan to split Mountain Road parcels 50 & 51 into 4 lots (6-0-0)
• Closed public hearing on 2 Sugarloaf Street special permit (6-0-0)
• Granted Special Permit for 2 Sugarloaf Street with parking conditions (6-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0-0)

Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee

The Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee will meet to discuss the renewal of the Comcast cable franchise. This meeting involves the towns of Deerfield, Sunderland, and Whately.

• Discussion of Comcast Cable Franchise Renewal

Conservation Commission

The Deerfield Conservation Commission will consider three Notices of Intent that involve wetland areas: a playground surface and equipment at 21 Pleasant Street, a single‑family home at 355 Greenfield Road, and a dormitory and utility improvements at Little Meadow Road. Each item will be reviewed at a public hearing as required by the Wetlands Protection Act. Additional agenda items include a COC NOI, an enforcement order, and a report on recent site visits.

• 21 Pleasant Street – Darius Modestow’s Notice of Intent for new playground surface and equipment; public hearing July 24, 2025 at 6 pm.
• 355 Greenfield Road – Bob O’Bear’s Notice of Intent for construction of a single‑family home in a wetland buffer; public hearing October 30, 2025 at 6 pm.
• Little Meadow Road – Jeff Galli for Trustees of Deerfield Academy’s Notice of Intent for a new dormitory and related infrastructure; public hearing October 30, 2025 at 6 pm.
• COC NOI 142-0248 – Infrastructure off Little Meadow Road (item listed under Other Business).
• Form 9/Enforcement order 89 – Whately Road (item listed under Other Business).

The Deerfield Conservation Commission approved the Notice of Intent for a new playground at 21 Pleasant Street, pending revised plans (vote 3-1-0). It also accepted the NOI for a single‑family home at 355 Greenfield Road (vote 4-0-0) and the NOI for a dormitory at Little Meadow Road (vote 4-0-0). Additionally, the board ratified the Hillside Road emergency culvert certification (vote 4-0-0).

• Accepted 21 Pleasant Street playground NOI with condition of revised plans (3-1-0)
• Closed 21 Pleasant Street hearing (4-0-0)
• Accepted 355 Greenfield Road home construction NOI (4-0-0)
• Closed 355 Greenfield Road hearing (4-0-0)
• Accepted Little Meadow Road dormitory NOI (4-0-0)
• Closed Little Meadow Road hearing (4-0-0)
• Ratified Hillside Road emergency culvert certification (4-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0-0)

Ad-Hoc Town Common Committee

The Ad Hoc Town Common Committee will meet to discuss the Town Common. The meeting will be held in a hybrid format at the Town Hall Kitchen. No specific agenda items were listed.

• Hybrid meeting at Town Hall Kitchen, 8 Conway Street
• Public comment via Zoom or in-person
• Meeting ID: 620 007 8930

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Deerfield Selectboard will meet in an executive session with the Town Administrator. The session will cover the physical condition of a town employee and the town's strategy for collective bargaining with United Public Service Employees Union Local 424M-MADIV-118 of the Deerfield Highway Department. No other agenda items are listed for open discussion.

• Executive session to discuss the physical condition of a town employee
• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy with United Public Service Employees Union Local 424M-MADIV-118

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Selectboard and Board of Health will discuss sewer regulations and a senior center agreement revision. The body will also consider a contract amendment for the 1888 Building project and address noise complaints regarding Tree House Brewing Company.

• Vote on Kuhn Riddle Contract Amendment of $55,000 for the 1888 Building project
• First reading of Sewer Rules and Regulations
• Discussion of Tree House Brewing Company Entertainment License and resident noise letters
• South County Senior Center Intermunicipal Agreement Revision
• Appointment of Zachary Pelletier as DPW Operator in Training at $21.90/hr

The board approved the minutes from the November 12 meeting. It voted to approve a $55,000 contract amendment for Kuhn Riddle Architecture on the 1888 Building project. The board also approved letters of support for the Laurel Hill Cemetery gravestone restoration and the Energy Conservation Committee decarbonization roadmap. Two appointments were confirmed: Zachary Pelletier as DPW Operator in Training and Geoffrey Spencer Brown as the Historical Commission representative to the Community Preservation Committee.

• Approved minutes of November 12, 2025 (3-0-0)
• Approved $55,000 Kuhn Riddle contract amendment for 1888 Building project (3-0-0)
• Approved Letter of Support for Laurel Hill Cemetery gravestone restoration (3-0-0)
• Approved Letter of Support for Energy Conservation Committee decarbonization roadmap (3-0-0)
• Appointed Zachary Pelletier as DPW Operator in Training (3-0-0)
• Appointed Geoffrey Spencer Brown as Historical Commission representative to CPC (3-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:15 pm (3-0-0)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The joint Selectboard and Planning Board meeting will consider two personnel actions. Members will accept the resignation of Satu Zoller from the Planning Board. They will then appoint Kathy Sylvester to fill the resulting Planning Board vacancy by roll‑call vote.

• Accept resignation of Satu Zoller from the Planning Board
• Appoint Kathy Sylvester to fill Planning Board vacancy by roll‑call vote

The Selectboard accepted the resignation of Planning Board member Satu Zoller. The board appointed Kathy Watroba to fill the vacancy until the next Annual Town Meeting or a qualified successor is selected. The joint meeting was adjourned at 5:55 pm.

• Accepted resignation of Satu Zoller from Planning Board (3-0-0)
• Appointed Kathy Watroba to Planning Board vacancy (3-0-0)
• Adjourned joint meeting (3-0-0)

Tilton Library Building Committee

The Tilton Library Building Committee will hold a special meeting on November 18, 2025 to review the project budget, provide updates on the elevator installation, and discuss progress on moving into the new library building. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from the September 2, 2025 meeting and setting the date for the next meeting.

• Approve minutes from 9/2/25 meeting
• Detailed update of budget and project expenses
• Status of elevator
• Status of moving into the building
• Set next meeting date

Committee members noted that P3 had not yet provided a detailed budget and that $10,000 remained unallocated. They reported that the elevator is scheduled for delivery in mid‑March and that LED lighting and LEED‑certification issues will be addressed later. A motion to accept the September 2 minutes was made and seconded, and the meeting was then adjourned.

• Motion to accept 9/2/25 minutes made and seconded (outcome not recorded)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting made and seconded (meeting adjourned)

Frontier Community Access Television Board of Directors

The Frontier Community Access Television Board will approve minutes from five recent meetings, hear the General Manager’s report, receive updates on a new HD channel server purchase and on cable franchise renegotiations affecting Deerfield, Sunderland, and Whately, and discuss plans for FCAT’s 20th‑anniversary celebration scheduled for January 17. The meeting will also include public comment and set the date for the next meeting.

• Approve minutes from March, May, July, August, and September 2025 meetings
• Update on purchasing a new HD Channel server
• Update on cable franchise renegotiations for Deerfield, Sunderland, and Whately
• Discussion of FCAT’s 20th Anniversary celebration planned for January 17
• Public comment period

Recreation Committee

The Deerfield Recreation Committee will review the soccer season wrap‑up and the hockey season wrap‑up. They will discuss rolling out a new website for registration and discount codes, and messaging through flyers. A potential ice hockey event with the Thunderbirds as a fundraiser will be considered. The committee will also examine job responsibilities (full‑ vs half‑time pay) and the addition of adult programs.

• Soccer season wrap‑up
• Hockey season wrap‑up
• Website rollout for registration and discount codes
• Ice hockey event with Thunderbirds – fundraiser option
• Job responsibilities discussion (full‑ vs half‑time pay)

The Recreation Committee voted to pursue a fundraiser ice‑hockey event with the Thunderbirds. No other formal actions were recorded; the remainder of the meeting consisted of program reports and discussion of future ideas.

• Approved trying Thunderbirds ice‑hockey fundraiser (no vote tally recorded)

Board of Assessors

The Deerfield Board of Assessors will consider old business items such as the minutes from the November 4 meeting and October building permits. New business includes staffing appointments for the Town Administrator and Assistant Administrator, a review of the $10,000 floor amount for roof inspection permits, comments on Map 168 lot 13, FY 2026 recaps, motor vehicle abatement requests, and an executive session on compliance with state law requirements.

• Review of $10,000 floor amount for roof inspection permits
• Request for comments on Map 168 lot 13
• Discussion of motor vehicle abatement requests
• Appointment of Town Administrator and Assistant Administrator to assessors’ office staffing
• Executive session on compliance with MGL Chapter 59 section 60

The Board approved the minutes from the November 4, 2025 meeting (2‑0). A motion changed the floor amount for roof and window inspections from $10,000 to $20,000 (2‑0). Payables and the 2025 Motor Vehicle Excise Commitment #6 were approved and signed. Motor vehicle excise abatements were authorized using the signature stamp.

• Accepted minutes of 11/04/2025 meeting (2‑0)
• Raised floor amount for roof & window inspections to $20,000 (2‑0)
• Approved payables (signed)
• Approved 2025 Motor Vehicle Excise Commitment #6 (signed)
• Authorized motor vehicle excise abatements (signature stamp used)

Personnel Board

The Deerfield Personnel Board will review the town's classification and compensation schedule and examine the Northeast CPI. It will discuss recommendations for cost-of-living adjustments and updates to draft personnel policies. The board will also hear a presentation on a piloted Conservation Agent position and review the Principal Assessor job description.

• Review classification and compensation schedule
• Review Northeast CPI
• Discuss cost-of-living adjustment recommendations
• Discuss updates on draft Personnel Policy updates
• Job Description Review: Principal Assessor

The Deerfield Personnel Board met on November 17, 2025 and discussed several personnel topics. At 7:10 pm a motion to adjourn was made and approved unanimously with a 3‑0‑0 vote. No other actions were recorded as decided.

• Motion to adjourn approved (3-0-0)

1888 Building Advisory Committee

The committee will review construction and budget updates from P3 Owner’s Project Manager and Kuhn Riddle architect. The body will also discuss a contract amendment with Kuhn Riddle.

• Construction and budget updates from P3 and Kuhn Riddle
• Contract amendment with Kuhn Riddle

The 1888 Building Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the October 3, 2025 meeting. It voted to recommend a $55,000 contract amendment to Kuhn Riddle Architects for additional project work. Both motions passed unanimously (3-0-0). The meeting was adjourned at 10:31 am.

• Approved October 3, 2025 minutes (3-0-0)
• Recommended $55,000 contract amendment with Kuhn Riddle to Selectboard (3-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:31 am (3-0-0)

Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee

The Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee will meet on Nov 14, 2025 at 2:00 PM (hybrid) to discuss the renewal of the town’s cable franchise with Comcast. The meeting is open to the public in person at 12 School Street, Sunderland, MA, and via Zoom. No other agenda items are listed beyond the Comcast franchise renewal discussion.

• Comcast cable franchise renewal (discussion item)

South County Senior Center Board of Oversight

The South County Senior Center Board of Oversight meets on November 13, 2025 in a hybrid format. The board will enter an executive session with the senior center director and Craig Warner to consider purchase, exchange, lease, or valuation of real property. No other agenda items are scheduled for open discussion. The session is closed under M.G.L. c.30A §21(a)(6).

• Executive session to consider purchase, exchange, lease, or valuation of real property

The South County Senior Center Board of Oversight met remotely and entered an executive session with Director Jennifer Ferrara and property owner Craig Warner to consider purchase, exchange, lease, or valuation of the 112 Amherst Road property. No formal decisions, approvals, or votes were recorded in the minutes.

Connecting Community Initiative

The agenda consists of procedural boilerplate. The committee will approve minutes from October 16, 2025, and provide committee update reports.

• Approval of October 16, 2025 minutes
• Committee updates report

The Connecting Community Initiative Committee approved the October 16, 2025 minutes unanimously. The Zoning Board of Appeals adopted its general standard permit procedures. The committee recorded that a $1 million budget for the Elm Street project is official. The Select Board approved funding for accessible switches, though the amount was not specified.

• Approved October 16, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• ZBA adopted general standard permit procedures
• Authorized $1 M for Elm Street project
• Select Board approved funding for accessible switches (amount not specified)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Selectboard and Board of Health will meet to hear public comments on FY2026 sewer rates and discuss several items including liquor license requests for Yankee Candle Village, a transfer station policy, and EV charger pricing. The board will also consider appointments and submit a revised economic development plan.

• FY2026 Sewer Rate Hearing
• One-Day Liquor License Request for Tree Lighting event
• One-Day Liquor License Request for Girls Night Out
• EV Charger pricing discussion ($0.42 L3, $0.30 L2)
• Letter of Support for Gravestone Repairs ($8,850)

The board unanimously approved new FY26 sewer user charges, set service fees, and adopted the wastewater treatment plant enterprise fund budget. It also approved EV charging rates, two one‑day liquor licenses for Yankee Candle Village events, and the revised Economic Development Plan. Additional actions included appointing two paramedics and supporting a gravestone‑repair grant.

• Approved FY26 sewer user charge of $25.96 per 1,000 gallons (3-0-0)
• Approved service fee of $150 for bi‑annual billing (3-0-0)
• Approved minimum usage charge of $100 per bi‑annual period (3-0-0)
• Approved Wastewater Treatment Plant Enterprise Fund with $2,099,618 revenue and $819,822 debt (3-0-0)
• Approved Level 2 EV charging rate of $0.35/kWh and Level 3 rate of $0.50/kWh (3-0-0)
• Approved one‑day liquor license for Yankee Candle Village tree‑lighting event on 11/14 (3-0-0)
• Approved one‑day liquor license for Yankee Candle Village “Girls Night Out” on 12/4 (3-0-0)
• Approved and signed revised Economic Development Plan for submission to the Commonwealth (3-0-0)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Deerfield Selectboard, acting as Sewer Commissioners, will hold a public hearing on November 12, 2025 to set the FY2026 sewer rates. Rate documents are available for review at the Municipal Offices and on the town website. The meeting will be conducted in a hybrid format, with in‑person attendance in the Main Meeting Room at 8 Conway St. and remote participation via Zoom.

• Public hearing on FY2026 sewer rates
• Rate documents on file at Municipal Offices and online at www.deerfieldma.us
• Hybrid meeting: in‑person at 8 Conway St., South Deerfield, MA 01373
• Remote access via Zoom (Meeting ID 911 604 1580, Passcode 570012)
• Dial‑in numbers: 312‑626‑6799, 929‑205‑6099, toll‑free 833‑548‑0276

The board approved new sewer service fees, a minimum usage charge, and a FY26 user charge per 1,000 gallons. It also adopted the Wastewater Treatment Plant Enterprise Fund with detailed financial figures. One‑day liquor licenses for two Yankee Candle Village events and new EV charging rates were approved, along with paramedic appointments.

• Set sewer service fee for bi‑annual billing at $150 (3-0-0)
• Set minimum usage charge per bi‑annual period at $100 (3-0-0)
• Set FY26 sewer user charge per 1,000 gallons at $25.96 (3-0-0)
• Approve Wastewater Treatment Plant Enterprise Fund with revenues $2,099,618, salaries $485,496, expenses $807,800, debt $819,822, indirect costs $86,500, retained earnings $100,000 (3-0-0)
• Approve one‑day liquor license for Yankee Candle Village tree‑lighting event (5‑8 pm) (3-0-0)
• Approve one‑day liquor license for Yankee Candle Village “Girls Night Out” (3-0-0)
• Approve EV charging rates: Level 2 at $0.35/kWh, Level 3 at $0.50/kWh (3-0-0)
• Appoint Samantha Cycz as full‑time paramedic and Emily Ethier as per‑diem paramedic (3-0-0)

Community Preservation Committee

The Deerfield Community Preservation Committee will meet to approve minutes, review a draft plan, and discuss a public hearing for projects including the Meeting House Tower and Mill River Cemetery.

• Approve minutes from September and October 2025
• Review draft Community Preservation Committee Plan edits
• Discuss public hearing for Meeting House Tower project
• Review application for Mill River Cemetery project
• Review FY 2025 Community Preservation Committee budget

The committee approved the minutes from September, October 1 and October 22, 2025. It endorsed the 1821 Meeting House restoration project and approved Mill River Cemetery grave repairs. The FY26 budget of about $460,000 was adopted, adding 10% to the Historical, Recreation/Open Space, and Housing categories. Ben Bensen will resign as clerk and be replaced by Geoff Brown, with clerk duties to be rotated.

• Approved September 17, 2025 minutes (all approved)
• Approved October 1, 2025 minutes (all approved)
• Approved October 22, 2025 public meeting minutes (all approved)
• Endorsed 1821 Meeting House restoration project, subject to conditions (all approved)
• Approved Mill River Cemetery grave repairs (all approved)
• Adopted FY26 budget of about $460,000, adding 10% to Historical, Recreation/Open Space, and Housing categories (all approved)
• Approved replacement of clerk Ben Bensen with Geoff Brown as DHC representative (all approved)
• Approved rotation of clerk duties unless a volunteer steps forward (all approved)

Personnel Board

The Personnel Board will discuss the classification and compensation schedule and cost-of-living adjustment recommendations. The board will also review the Northeast CPI and draft Personnel Policy updates.

• Hearing with Pete Law, Conservation Commission Chair, regarding a piloted Conservation Agent position
• Review of classification and compensation schedule
• Review of Northeast CPI
• Discussion of cost-of-living adjustment recommendations
• Discussion of draft Personnel Policy updates

Historical Commission

The Deerfield Historical Commission will review the September 8 and October 20 meeting minutes and note that no budget funds have been expended. Members will discuss several ongoing items, including the Mill Village Cemetery application for CPC funds, Form B research by Jason, the status of Tack painting, Laurel Hill Cemetery, signage for Old Deerfield Common, the John Nove memorial service, and an update on trees at the Albany Road Burial Ground. No new business items are listed for this meeting.

• Mill Village Cemetery application for CPC funds
• Form B’s research by Jason
• Status of Tack painting
• Laurel Hill Cemetery discussion
• Albany Road Burial Ground tree update

The commission unanimously accepted the September 8 and October 20 meeting minutes. It approved submitting a letter of support for the Tack painting restoration and for a $4,980 CPC grant to the Laurel Hill Cemetery Association. Members also voted to have Geoff Brown replace Ben Bensen as the commission’s CPC representative.

• Accepted September 8, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Accepted October 20, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Approved DHC letter of support for Tack painting project (all in favor)
• Approved support for $4,980 CPC grant to Laurel Hill Cemetery (all in favor)
• Approved Geoff Brown as new DHC representative to CPC (all in favor)
• Moved to adjourn the meeting (all in favor)

Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee

The Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee will meet on November 7, 2025 to discuss the renewal of the Comcast cable franchise. The meeting will be held in a hybrid format at 12 School Street, Sunderland, MA and via Zoom. Agenda items include the franchise renewal discussion and any unanticipated matters that may arise. No specific decisions are listed in the agenda.

• Discussion of Comcast Cable Franchise Renewal
• Call to order
• Members present
• Items unanticipated 48 hours prior to posting

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on a special permit application by Gary Beaudry for a multi‑family dwelling at 7 Thayer Street in the CVRD district, pursuant to Bylaw c.179 §2230. The board will also consider approval of the minutes from the September 18, 2025 meeting. Additional items include discussion of standard conditions and scheduling of upcoming meetings.

• Special Permit 7 Thayer Street – multi‑family dwelling application (Gary Beaudry)
• Approval of minutes from 9/18/2025
• Discussion of standard conditions
• Decision on upcoming meeting schedule
• Any other business not anticipated within 48 hours

The board approved the October 16 minutes unanimously (4-0-0). It voted to continue the special‑permit hearing for 7 Thayer Street to December 12, 2025 (4-0-0). The board agreed to separate the last sentence of condition #7 into a new condition #8 for future permits. The meeting was adjourned unanimously (4-0-0).

• Approved 10/16/2025 minutes (4-0-0)
• Continued 7 Thayer St special‑permit hearing to Dec 12, 2025 (4-0-0)
• Agreed to make last sentence of condition #7 a separate condition #8
• Adjourned meeting (4-0-0)

Library Board of Trustees

The Tilton Library Trustee Meeting will include a review and vote on the October 1, 2025, meeting minutes. The board will also receive a Director's Report and other updates.

• Review and vote on October 1, 2025 meeting minutes
• Director’s Report

The board approved the minutes for the October 1 and October 15 meetings. The director reported on the new library building project, including art display installation, staff training, upcoming certificate of occupancy, and a soft opening planned for early 2026, as well as a fundraising capital campaign total of $1.43 million. No other actions or votes were taken.

• Approved October 1 and October 15 minutes

Cultural Council

The Local Cultural Council will review funding priorities and vote on applications based on available funds. Members will also share findings regarding a potential Deerfield LCC mural project.

• Vote on funding applications
• Discussion of potential Deerfield LCC mural project

Board of Assessors

The Deerfield Board of Assessors will review old business items such as the minutes from the October 21, 2025 meeting and staffing matters for 2027. In new business, the board will receive payables, business certificates, October deeds and building permits, the FY 2027 LA‑3 sales report, and a request for FY 2027 capital funds. They will also solicit comments on Map 61 lots 12 and 13, consider motor vehicle abatement requests, and hold an executive session to address statutory compliance requirements.

• FY 2027 Capital Funds Request
• FY 2027 LA‑3 Sales Report
• Map 61 Lots 12 + 13: Request for Comments
• Motor Vehicle Abatements
• Executive Session on MGL c.30A §21(a)(7) compliance

The Board accepted the October 21, 2025 minutes with a 2‑0 vote. It approved the payables and approved the FY 2027 LA‑3 Sales Report and LA‑13 New Growth Report for submission to the Department of Revenue. The staffing discussion for 2027 was held over, and no comments were received on Map 61 lots 12 and 13. Motor vehicle excise abatements were processed using a signature stamp.

• Accepted 10/21/2025 minutes (2-0 vote)
• Approved payables (signed)
• Approved FY 2027 LA-3 Sales Report & LA-13 New Growth Report for DOR submission
• Assessors’ Office Staffing 2027 held over
• Map 61 Lots 12 + 13: No comments received
• Motor Vehicle Excise Abatements processed (signature stamp used)

Tri-Town Beach Commission

The commission will hold a public comment period, approve the minutes from the previous meeting, and receive updates on tree maintenance and the upcoming 2026 beach season, including staffing and program plans. Additional miscellaneous items may also be discussed.

• Public comment session
• Approve minutes from previous meeting
• Tree issues update – fall schedule
• 2026 season staffing and program discussion
• Miscellaneous items

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct a public hearing regarding a site plan for a three-story building with commercial space and 12 residential units. The board will also review a zoning analysis for a potential accessory dwelling unit (ADU) bylaw.

• Public Hearing: Site Plan Review for 12 residential units and commercial space at 2 Sugarloaf Street
• ANR 39 Thayer Street/Boron Ave
• FRCOG Presentation: Zoning Analysis for Potential ADU Bylaw
• CPA Conservation Fund Grant Application request for letter of support

The board accepted the September 8 minutes and endorsed the ANR plan for 39 Thayer Street. It approved the Site Plan Review for 2 Sugarloaf Street, adding conditions and requiring a special permit for reduced parking. The board also approved a letter of support for a $100,000 conservation‑fund grant.

• Accepted minutes of 9/8/2025 (5-0-0)
• Endorsed ANR plan for 39 Thayer Street (5-0-0)
• Approved Site Plan Review for 2 Sugarloaf Street with conditions (5-0-0)
• Reopened hearing to require a Special Permit for parking reduction (5-0-0)
• Approved letter of support for $100,000 CPA Conservation Fund grant (5-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0-0)

South County Senior Center Board of Oversight

The South County Senior Center Board of Oversight will enter an executive session with the Center Director and Craig Warner. In that closed session they will consider the purchase, exchange, lease, or valuation of real property. The meeting will not reconvene in open session, and public comment is suspended.

• Executive session to consider purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property

Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee

The Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee will meet to discuss the renewal of the Comcast cable franchise. The meeting is held for the towns of Deerfield, Sunderland, and Whately.

• Discussion of Comcast Cable Franchise Renewal

Conservation Commission

The Deerfield Conservation Commission will hold a public meeting to consider a Request for Determination of Applicability for 17 Captain Lathrop Drive and Notice of Intent filings for 355 Greenfield Road and 0 Little Meadow Road. The agenda also includes a continuation of a Notice of Intent for playground improvements at 21 Pleasant Street and several informational items such as a Conservation Fund application and an emergency culvert certificate.

• 17 Captain Lathrop Drive – Request for Determination of Applicability (Wetlands Protection Act)
• 355 Greenfield Road – Notice of Intent for single‑family home construction (Wetlands Protection Act)
• 0 Little Meadow Road – Notice of Intent for new dormitory and utility upgrades (Wetlands Protection Act)
• 21 Pleasant Street – Notice of Intent for playground surface and equipment (Wetlands Protection Act)
• CPA Application for Conservation Fund

The commission approved a Request for Determination of Applicability for 17 Captain Lathrop Drive with a Form 2 Negative 3 decision (4‑0‑0). It also approved a Form B Certificate of Compliance for the DA infrastructure improvements (4‑0‑0). The commission voted to continue the NOIs for 355 Greenfield Road, 0 Little Meadow Road, and 21 Pleasant Street to the November 20, 2025 meeting. The meeting was adjourned (5‑0‑0).

• Approved RDA for 17 Captain Lathrop Drive, Form 2 Negative 3 (4-0-0)
• Approved Form B Certificate of Compliance for DA Infrastructure Improvements (4-0-0)
• Continued 355 Greenfield Road NOI to Nov 20, 2025 (4-0-0)
• Continued 0 Little Meadow Road NOI to Nov 20, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Continued 21 Pleasant Street DES Playground NOI to Nov 20, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0-0)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Deerfield Selectboard and Board of Health will consider several items at their October 29 meeting. The primary decision is the approval of the sale of a $7,428,266 4% General Obligations Bond Anticipation Note for the library. Other agenda items include amending a Stillwater Bridge grant to add $10,000 for easement costs, accepting the resignation of Police Department employee Marissa Smith, and discussing a South County Multi‑Town Team appointment and Special Town Meeting motions.

• Vote to approve sale of $7,428,266 4% General Obligations Bond Anticipation Note for the library
• Amend Stillwater Bridge Chapter 90 grant to include $10,000 easement‑related costs
• Accept resignation of Marissa Smith from Deerfield Police Department
• Discuss appointment of a Selectboard member to the South County Multi‑Town Team
• Consider Special Town Meeting motions

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Deerfield Special Town Meeting will consider a series of articles, including fund transfers, land conservation, and bylaw changes. Voters will decide whether to move $250,000 from Free Cash to the Capital Stabilization Fund and approve other financial transfers. The meeting also includes proposals to protect 31 acres on Steam Mill Road as a town forest and to amend energy and vehicle policies. All items are presented for a vote or other action by the Selectboard and Town Meeting.

• Article 1: Transfer funds for renovations of 112 Amherst Road in Sunderland for the South County Senior Center
• Article 2: Transfer $75,550 to Account 914-5400 – Group Insurance – Town (with $15,550 from Free Cash)
• Article 4: Transfer $250,000 from Free Cash to the Capital Stabilization Fund
• Article 6: Authorize permanent protection of ~31 acres on Steam Mill Road as a Town Forest
• Article 14: Amend Chapter 69 “Stretch Energy Code” by deleting it and adopting a new Specialized Energy Code

Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee

The Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee will meet to discuss the renewal of the Comcast cable franchise. This meeting is held jointly for the towns of Deerfield, Sunderland, and Whately.

• Discussion of Comcast Cable Franchise Renewal

Energy Conservation Committee

The committee will discuss the Climate Leadership Program, including a carbon roadmap and education outreach. Members will also review the Green Communities application and municipal bike lanes.

• Climate Leadership Program forum and carbon roadmap
• Green Communities application via Frontier and FRCOG
• Municipal bike lanes in town and to neighboring communities
• Coordination with MVP and CCI committees

The Energy Conservation Committee met via Zoom and discussed reports, upcoming presentations, and grant eligibility issues. No formal approvals or denials were recorded. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous motion.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous approval)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Deerfield Selectboard and Board of Health will consider three items: a Green Communities grant application for the Frontier Regional Schools Building Management System, attendance at an MMA conference, and an executive session on collective bargaining strategy with United Public Service Employees Union Local 424M-MADIV-118 for the Deerfield Highway Department. The executive session will be closed to the public under Chapter 30A, Section 21(a) Subsection (3). Public comment is suspended.

• Green Communities grant application – Frontier Regional Schools Building Management System
• MMA Conference Attendance
• Executive Session on collective bargaining strategy with United Public Service Employees Union Local 424M-MADIV-118 Deerfield Highway Department

Community Preservation Committee

The committee will hold a public hearing to provide an overview of the Community Preservation Act and how the committee functions. The meeting will include a presentation of the new draft Deerfield CPC Plan and a request for public feedback.

• Presentation of the new draft Deerfield CPC Plan
• Overview of CPA projects eligible for funding
• Notice that Fiscal Year 2027 Funding applications are due November 1, 2025

The committee rescinded the pending island application. A motion to adjourn the meeting was approved. The committee noted that a proposal to establish a conservation fund will be presented at the town meeting in the spring. Voting tallies showed top‑ranked projects but no formal approvals were recorded.

• Rescinded island application (no vote recorded)
• Approved motion to adjourn (no vote recorded)
• Conservation‑fund proposal to be taken to Town Meeting (pending)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review staffing for 2027 and a capital funds request for FY 2027. The agenda includes administrative items and a review of abatement and exemption requests.

• FY 2027 Capital Funds Request
• Assessors’ Office Staffing 2027
• Map 94 Lot 16: Chapter 61A Lien Release
• Motor Vehicle Abatements
• Business Certificates

The board accepted the minutes from the October 7, 2025 meeting with a 2‑0 vote. They approved and signed the Chapter 61A lien release for Map 94 Lot 16. The staffing plan for the Assessors’ Office in 2027 and the FY 2027 capital funds request were held for further study. No comments were received on the request for comments regarding Map 168 Lot 13, and motor vehicle excise abatements were processed using the signature stamp.

• Accepted October 7, 2025 minutes (2‑0)
• Approved & signed Chapter 61A lien release for Map 94 Lot 16
• Held Assessors’ Office staffing plan for 2027 for further study
• Held FY 2027 capital funds request
• Received no comments on Map 168 Lot 13 request for comments
• Processed motor vehicle excise abatements (signature stamp used)

Historical Commission

The Deerfield Historical Commission will review ongoing projects including the Mill Village Cemetery application for CPC funds, communication with the Greenfield Historical Commission, the status of Tack painting, and a discussion with the Open Space Committee about Old Deerfield Common. New business includes planning John Nove’s memorial service on October 26 at the White Church Community Center and addressing tree concerns in the historic area of the Old Deerfield Burial Ground. No decisions are recorded; the agenda outlines topics for discussion.

• Mill Village Cemetery application for CPC funds
• Communication with Greenfield Historical Commission regarding Form Bs
• Status update on Tack painting
• Discussion with Open Space Committee about Old Deerfield Common
• Planning John Nove’s memorial service on Oct 26 at White Church Community Center

The Deerfield Historical Commission held its October 20, 2025 meeting and discussed several ongoing projects, but no approvals, denials, or other formal actions were taken. The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to adjourn. No funds were expended during the session.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a special permit application for 7 Thayer Street. The board will consider a request to allow a multi-family dwelling in the CVRD district.

• Public hearing for Special Permit at 7 Thayer Street (Map 174 Lot 138) for a multi-family dwelling

The Zoning Board approved the minutes from the September 18 meeting (4‑0‑0). A public hearing on a special permit for 7 Thayer Street was held, after which the board voted to close the hearing (4‑0‑0). The board voted to continue deliberations on the permit to the November 6 meeting (4‑0‑0) and will seek clarification from Town Counsel before deciding. It also agreed to keep temporary signs at 25 Greenfield Road in place through November 15.

• Approved 9/18/25 minutes (4-0-0)
• Closed public hearing on 7 Thayer Street (4-0-0)
• Continued deliberations on 7 Thayer Street permit to 11/6/2025 (4-0-0)
• Board to seek Town Counsel clarification on permit authority
• Allowed temporary signs at 25 Greenfield Road through Nov 15 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0-0)

South County Senior Center Board of Oversight

The South County Senior Center Board of Oversight will meet on October 16, 2025 at Frontier Regional School, 113 N Main St., South Deerfield, MA. The board will discuss the senior center’s presentation at the Community Forum and possible new locations. In a closed executive session, the board will consider the purchase, exchange, lease, or valuation of real property under M.G.L. c.30A §21(a)(6).

• Discussion of the South County Senior Center at the Community Forum and potential location(s).
• Executive session to consider purchase, exchange, lease, or valuation of real property.

The South County Senior Center Board of Oversight met in an executive session to discuss the community forum and possible locations. No actions were approved, denied, or tabled, and the board did not reconvene in open session.

Connecting Community Initiative

The Connecting Community Initiative Committee will consider and vote on the approval of the September 4, 2025 meeting minutes. The committee will also receive its regular updates report and allow a brief public comment period of two minutes if time permits. Additional business may be addressed if announced at least 48 hours in advance. The meeting includes a statement reaffirming support for the town’s anti‑hate declaration of November 11, 2022.

• Approve minutes from the September 4, 2025 meeting
• Committee updates report
• Public comment limited to two minutes, time permitting
• Consider other business submitted at least 48 hours before the meeting
• Reaffirm support for Deerfield Select Board’s anti‑hate statement of November 11, 2022

The Connecting Community Initiative Committee approved the minutes from the September 4, 2025 meeting; Lili moved, Carolyn seconded, and all members accepted except Andrea, who abstained. The Open Space subcommittee decided to focus on three priority areas: Indigenous engagement, a land‑easement steering committee, and a parks/playgrounds steering committee. No other motions were voted on.

• Approved September 4, 2025 minutes (all accepted, Andrea abstained)
• Open Space subcommittee decided to focus on Indigenous engagement, land easements, and parks/playgrounds

Selectboard / Board of Health

The joint Selectboard and Tilton Library Trustees meeting will consider appointing John W. Stacey to fill the elected Tilton Library Trustee vacancy by roll call vote, as authorized by M.G.L. Chapter 41, Section 11. The agenda also includes standard procedural items such as call to order, a suspended public comment period, and adjournment.

• Appointment of John W. Stacey to fill elected Tilton Library Trustee vacancy (roll call vote)

The board approved two motions appointing John W. Stacey to the Tilton Library Board of Trustees, each passing unanimously (4-0-0). The meeting was then adjourned by a motion that passed unanimously (2-0-0). No other substantive actions were taken.

• Appointed John W. Stacey to Tilton Library Board of Trustees (4-0-0)
• Motion to adjourn passed (2-0-0)

South County Senior Center Board of Oversight

The South County Senior Center Board of Oversight will meet on October 14, 2025 at 4:00 PM in a hybrid format at the senior center and via Zoom. The only discussion item listed is an executive session with the Center Director and Craig Warner to consider the purchase, exchange, lease, or valuation of real property. The session will be closed to the public under M.G.L. c.30A, §21(a)(6).

• Executive session to consider purchase, exchange, lease, or valuation of real property

DEDIC

The Deerfield Economic Development & Industrial Corporation will discuss a trench permit request for 4 Industrial Drive East, review grant proposal requirements, and consider grant proposals through a subcommittee. Routine business includes approving minutes, the treasurer’s report, and public comment. The meeting also includes updates from the economic development planner and a chairman’s report.

• Approve Minutes
• Treasurer’s Report
• Trench Permit for 4 Industrial Drive East
• Subcommittee review of grant proposals (Bob Decker, Chairman)
• Brainstorming on requirements for grant proposals

The board approved the draft minutes from August 14, 2025, with a unanimous vote except for one abstention. The Due Diligence list was reviewed and no action was taken to scan or update the DEDIC files. The meeting was adjourned at 9:30 a.m. by unanimous consent.

• Approved draft 8/14/2025 DEDIC Open Session minutes (unanimous with one abstention)
• Due diligence list review – no action taken on scanning/updating files
• Motion to adjourn meeting at 9:30 a.m. approved unanimously

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Selectboard and Board of Health will review a draft sewer rate and a warrant for a Special Town Meeting scheduled for October 29, 2025. The board will also discuss easement acquisition offer letters for the Stillwater Bridge.

• Review of draft sewer rate and scheduling of rate hearing for November 12, 2025
• Issuance of Stillwater Bridge easement acquisition offer letters
• Approval of warrant for Special Town Meeting on October 29, 2025
• 1888 Building groundbreaking on October 10
• Appointment of Paul Oleszewski to the Tri-Town Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee

Board members approved the minutes from the October 1 meeting. They adopted the warrant for the Special Town Meeting scheduled for October 29, which includes articles on health‑insurance costs, a $250,000 top‑up to the capital stabilization fund, and $638,000 of capital improvement projects. The board also accepted the resignation of John Paciorek Sr. from the Tri‑Town Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee and appointed Paul Oleszewski to that committee. The meeting was adjourned at 6:47 p.m.

• Approved minutes of Oct 1, 2025 (3-0-0)
• Approved warrant for Special Town Meeting on Oct 29, 2025 (3-0-0)
• Approved posting of the Special Town Meeting warrant (3-0-0)
• Accepted resignation of John Paciorek Sr. from Tri‑Town Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee (3-0-0)
• Appointed Paul Oleszewski to Tri‑Town Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee (3-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:47 p.m. (3-0-0)

Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP)

The Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) Core Group will vote to adopt its meeting minutes and receive updates on the MVP 2.0 grant, landowner outreach, and runoff estimates. The group will discuss a priority list of potential MVP Action Grant projects, including the Pleasant Street culvert replacement and debris removal in Blacksmith/Sugarloaf Brook. Additional updates will be provided on federal funding, the Environmental Bond bill, and the first phase of PL‑566 public information. The meeting will conclude with other business and setting the next meeting date.

• Vote to adopt MVP meeting minutes
• Discuss priority list of MVP Action Grant projects, including Pleasant Street culvert replacement
• Engineering/removal of debris in Blacksmith/Sugarloaf Brook for future bundled NOI
• Update on federal funding and Environmental Bond bill
• Update on PL‑566 first phase public information

The Conservation Commission approved a Notice of Intent (NOI) that lists 18 obstructions and requires engineering work. The group decided to hold off on submitting the Pekarski riverbank erosion project and to bundle three priority projects in an ECO OneStop grant expression of interest, including engineering for the top three culvert projects. The drafting of the ECO OneStop grant EOI was approved, and the meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Conservation Commission approved NOI with 18 obstructions
• Group held off on submitting the Pekarski riverbank erosion project
• Agreed to include engineering for top three culvert projects in grant EOI
• Approved drafting the ECO OneStop grant expression of interest
• Motion to adjourn the meeting unanimously approved

Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee

The Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee will hold a public hearing on the renewal of the cable television license for Comcast of Massachusetts II, Inc. The hearing is part of the committee's regular agenda and may include discussion of any items anticipated by the chair. No other decisions or items are listed for this meeting.

• Public hearing regarding renewal of cable television license for Comcast of Massachusetts II, Inc.

South County Emergency Medical Services Board of Oversight

The South County EMS Board of Oversight will meet on Oct. 7, 2025 to review several operational and financial items. Topics include a report from Chief Sparks on call data, staffing, revenues, expenses, and vehicle maintenance, as well as a vehicle replacement schedule and capital spending for FY26. The agenda lists an ambulance purchase request, a powerload purchase request, a preliminary FY27 budget, and the contract for Chief Sparks. The board may also discuss any other business permitted by law.

• Ambulance purchase request
• Powerload purchase request
• Chief Sparks’ contract
• Vehicle replacement schedule
• Preliminary FY27 budget

The board approved the previous meeting minutes by unanimous vote. It recommended using $76,080 from retained earnings to purchase two Stryker Powerload devices, vehicle cables, and a preventative maintenance plan, also unanimously. It further recommended using up to $325,000 from retained earnings to purchase a Medix Type 1‑170 F450 diesel 4x4 ambulance with storage and medical equipment, again unanimously. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended use $76,080 for Stryker Powerload devices and maintenance plan (unanimous)
• Recommended use up to $325,000 for Medix Type 1‑170 ambulance and equipment (unanimous)
• Tasked Chief Sparks to produce capital‑improvement overview by next meeting
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Deerfield Board of Assessors will review minutes from the September 16, 2025 meeting and address several administrative items. Topics include September deeds, plans, and building permits, a tax rollback request for Map 94 Lot 16, staffing plans for the Assessors’ Office in 2027, and a request for comments on Map 174 Lot 138. An executive session will be held to discuss motor vehicle abatements under state law.

• Review of minutes from 09/16/2025
• Discussion of September deeds, plans, and building permits
• Consideration of tax rollback for Map 94 Lot 16
• Assessment of staffing plan for Assessors’ Office 2027
• Request for comments on Map 174 Lot 138

The Board accepted the minutes from the September 16, 2025 meeting, with a motion carried 2‑0. The Board approved and signed a rollback of taxes for Map 94 Lot 16. The Board held the 2027 staffing plan for more information and recorded no comments on Map 174 Lot 138.

• Accepted September 16, 2025 minutes (motion carried 2-0)
• Approved rollback taxes for Map 94 Lot 16 (approved & signed)
• Staffing 2027 held for more information (no vote recorded)

Tri-Town Beach Commission

The Tri-Town Beach Commission will meet to discuss preparations for the 2026 season, including staffing and programs. The board will also review current projects and trespass notices.

• Fall schedule for tree issues
• 2026 season staffing and programs
• No trespass notices and pass revocations

The commission approved an annual $2,500 stipend for beach oversight (2-0-1 vote). It also adopted a blanket authorization for purchases up to $500 (3-0 vote) and agreed to purchase keyed locks for winter security. Additional actions included allowing a previously revoked season pass, postponing any goose hunting until police and game‑warden guidance, and planning to employ ten lifeguards for the 2026 season.

• Approved $2,500 beach oversight stipend (2-0-1)
• Approved blanket purchase authorization up to $500 (3-0)
• Agreed to purchase keyed locks for winter beach area
• Allowed issuance of a revoked season pass with conditions
• Decided not to issue goose hunting permission pending police and game‑warden input
• Decided to consider installing a water fountain for pond aeration
• Planned employment of ten lifeguards for 2026 season
• Scheduled next meeting for November 3 or 4

Capital Improvements Committee

The Capital Improvement Planning Committee will review the September 30, 2025 meeting minutes and consider FY2026 capital projects for the Department of Public Works, Police Department, and South County EMS. The agenda also includes scheduling upcoming meetings and a public comment period. Items not anticipated 48 hours in advance may also be discussed.

• Review of September 30, 2025 meeting minutes
• FY2026 capital project for Department of Public Works
• FY2026 capital project for Police Department
• FY2026 capital project for South County EMS

1888 Building Advisory Committee

The 1888 Building Advisory Committee will review meeting minutes and discuss project updates, including a groundbreaking ceremony and a contract amendment with Kuhn Riddle.

• Review minutes from June 13 and September 12, 2025
• Discuss construction and budget updates for the P3 project
• Contract amendment with Kuhn Riddle in the amount of $50,000
• Groundbreaking ceremony scheduled for Friday, October 10 at 11:00am
• Next meeting scheduled for November 14, 2025

The 1888 Building Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the June 13 and September 12, 2025 meetings with a 5‑0‑0 vote. The committee discussed construction updates, audiovisual equipment for a new meeting room, a groundbreaking ceremony on October 10, and a proposed $50,000 contract amendment with Kuhn Riddle. The meeting was adjourned at 10:40 am with a unanimous 5‑0‑0 vote.

• Approved June 13 & September 12, 2025 minutes (5-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:40 am (5-0-0)

Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee

The Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee will discuss the renewal of the Comcast cable franchise. No specific actions or contracts are listed, and the agenda notes that items may be added or omitted at the chair's discretion. The meeting is hybrid, held at 12 School Street in Sunderland and via Zoom.

• Discussion of Comcast Cable Franchise Renewal

South County Senior Center Board of Oversight

The South County Senior Center Board of Oversight will meet in hybrid format to discuss a real estate matter with the Director and Craig Warner. The meeting will be held at the Whately Town Offices and via Zoom.

• Executive session to discuss real property purchase or exchange
• Public comment suspended
• Hybrid meeting at Whately Town Offices, 4 Sandy Lane
• Remote participation via Zoom Meeting ID 451 850 2467

The South County Senior Center Board of Oversight met in an executive session with SCSC Director Jennifer Ferrara and Delta Sand & Gravel President Craig Warner. They discussed the property at 112 Amherst Road in Sunderland as a possible location for the senior center. No formal decision, vote, or action was recorded.

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Deerfield Selectboard is holding a public hearing to consider an application for an Annual On-Premises Farmer Brewery, All Alcoholic Pouring Permit. The request concerns the business located at 3 Sugarloaf Street in South Deerfield.

• Public hearing for Element Brewing Company (3 Sugarloaf Street) regarding an All Alcoholic Pouring Permit

The Selectboard approved a 3‑0‑0 vote to amend the lease agreement with Nexamp for the town’s landfill solar project and authorized the chair to sign it. It also approved a 3‑0‑0 liquor license for Element Brewing Company, a 3‑0‑0 senior‑center transportation grant of $9,148 with PVTA, and a 3‑0‑0 one‑day liquor license for the October 11 Centennial Celebration. Additional actions included several appointments, resignations, and authorizing the Town Administrator to sign an NRCS request for the Melnik property.

• Approved Nexamp landfill solar lease amendment (3-0-0)
• Approved Element Brewing Co. liquor license (3-0-0)
• Approved $9,148 senior‑center transportation grant with PVTA (3-0-0)
• Approved one‑day liquor license for Oct 11 Centennial Celebration (3-0-0)
• Authorized Town Administrator to sign NRCS request for Melnik property (3-0-0)
• Approved appointment of Josh LaFlamme as Operator‑in‑Training (3-0-0)
• Accepted resignation of Mark Brennan from CIPC Finance Committee (3-0-0)
• Approved minutes of 9/17/2025 and executive session (3-0-0)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Selectboard and Board of Health will hold a liquor license hearing for Element Brewing Company and discuss a lease amendment for the Deerfield Landfill Solar project. The body will also review a draft Special Town Meeting warrant and various committee appointments.

• Liquor License Hearing: Element Brewing Company
• Deerfield Landfill Solar Memo and 2nd Amendment of Lease (NexAmp)
• South County Senior Center Beyond ADA Grant Agreement with PVTA
• Bement one-day liquor license request for October 11 Centennial Celebration
• Vote to authorize Town Administrator to sign NRCS Requests for Melnik APR Property

The board voted 3‑0 to approve an amendment to the Town of Deerfield’s lease with Nexamp for the landfill solar project and authorized the chair to sign it. It also approved a liquor‑license for Element Brewing, a one‑day liquor license for the October 11 Centennial Celebration, and a $9,148 senior‑center transportation grant with PVTA. Additional actions included appointing several committee members, accepting two resignations, and authorizing the Town Administrator to sign an NRCS request for the Melnik APR property.

• Approved amendment to Nexamp landfill solar lease; chair authorized to sign (3‑0‑0)
• Approved Element Brewing Company liquor‑license on‑premises farmer brewer permit (3‑0‑0)
• Approved one‑day liquor license for October 11 Centennial Celebration (3‑0‑0)
• Approved $9,148 senior‑center transportation grant with PVTA (3‑0‑0)
• Authorized Town Administrator to sign NRCS request for Melnik APR property (3‑0‑0)
• Approved appointments of Josh LaFlamme, Ryan Kingston, Margaret Nartowciz, Mary Ramon, and Jennie McAvoy (3‑0‑0 each)
• Accepted resignations of Mark Brennan and Carey Etchells from CIPC committees (3‑0‑0 each)
• Approved minutes of 9/17/2025 and 9/17/2025 Executive Session (3‑0‑0)

Community Preservation Committee

The Deerfield Community Preservation Committee will meet remotely to approve banner designs for CPC projects and review a draft letter to the Community Preservation Committee.

• Vote on banner designs for CPC Projects
• Review draft letter to Community
• Review Shelburne slides for CPC Public Hearing

The committee accepted the revised draft letter to the community with a unanimous vote. They also approved using the rock image for project banners, again unanimously. Frank and Sean were tasked with organizing snacks and drinks for the upcoming open hearing. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Accepted revised draft letter (unanimous)
• Approved rock image for project banners (unanimous)
• Assigned Frank and Sean to organize snacks and drinks for open hearing
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Library Board of Trustees

The Deerfield Library Board of Trustees will review and vote on the minutes from its September 3, 2025 meeting. The board will hear a report from the library director. The meeting will also include general updates, news, and announcements.

• Review and vote on minutes from September 3, 2025 meeting
• Director’s report
• Updates, news and announcements

The board approved the September 3, 2025 minutes. Officers for 2025‑2026 were elected unanimously: Chair Satu Zoller, Vice‑Chair Kathleen O’Rourke, and Secretary Cynthia V on Flatern. The board also appointed John Stacey as a trustee by unanimous vote. Two trustees resigned from the board but will remain officers of the Tilton Fund, Inc.

• Approved September 3, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Satu Zoller as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Kathleen O’Rourke as Vice‑Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Cynthia V on Flatern as Secretary (unanimous)
• Appointed John Stacey to the Trustees (unanimous)
• Nancy Maynard and Marjorie Shearer resigned from the Trustees (no vote recorded)

Capital Improvements Committee

The committee will elect its leadership and review town bylaws. Members will discuss FY2026 capital projects for the Department of Public Works, Police Department, and South County EMS.

• Election of Chair, Vice-Chair, and Clerk
• Review of Deerfield Bylaws Ch. 10, Article VI
• FY2026 Capital Projects for Dept. of Public Works
• FY2026 Capital Projects for Police Dept.
• FY2026 Capital Projects for South County EMS

The Capital Improvement Planning Committee elected Blake Gilmore as Chair, Denise Mason as Vice‑Chair, and Elaine Cournoyer as Clerk, each by unanimous vote. The committee also set the next regular meeting for October 6 at 5:00 p.m. and adjourned the session at 6:25 p.m.

• Blake Gilmore elected Chair – unanimous vote
• Denise Mason elected Vice‑Chair – unanimous vote
• Elaine Cournoyer elected Clerk – unanimous vote
• Next regular meeting scheduled for October 6 at 5:00 p.m.
• Meeting adjourned at 6:25 p.m. – unanimous vote

Energy Conservation Committee

The Deerfield Energy Conservation Committee will meet remotely on September 25, 2025. The agenda includes reviewing draft minutes and discussing the Climate Leadership Program, including citizen petition status and a carbon roadmap. The committee will also consider Green Communities applications, bike lane projects, and a tree‑planting proposal. No specific contracts, ordinances, or fee changes are listed.

• Review draft minutes
• Discuss Climate Leadership Program (citizen petition status, carbon roadmap)
• Consider Green Communities application (Frontier)
• Discuss bike lane plans for town and neighboring communities
• Discuss tree‑planting proposal

The committee moved to adjourn the meeting at 5:03 p.m., and the motion was unanimously approved. No other substantive actions, approvals, or denials were recorded in the minutes.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous approval)

Conservation Commission

The Deerfield Conservation Commission will meet on September 25, 2025 to consider two wetland‑related items. Old business includes a public hearing on a Notice of Intent for new playground equipment at 21 Pleasant Street. New business includes a public meeting to determine whether work at 56 Hillside Road is subject to the Wetlands Protection Act. The agenda also lists a CPA request for Conservation Commission funds and several informational items such as an emergency certificate for a culvert and a retention‑pond cleanup.

• 21 Pleasant Street – public hearing on Notice of Intent for playground surface and equipment
• 56 Hillside Road – public meeting to consider Request for Determination of Applicability under Wetlands Protection Act
• CPA request for Conservation Commission fund
• Emergency Certificate for Hillside Culvert (revised)
• Cumberland Farms Retention Pond clean‑up

The Deerfield Conservation Commission accepted the August 28 minutes, continued the playground improvement notice of intent, approved a Form 2b negative‑3 finding for 56 Hillside Road, and accepted the revised emergency certification for 29 Hillside Road. It also voted to join the Open Space Committee in seeking a $100,000 Conservation Fund application for fiscal year 2026.

• Accepted August 28 minutes (4-0-1)
• Continued 21 Pleasant St playground NOI to Oct 30 meeting (5-0-0)
• Approved Form 2b negative‑3 finding for 56 Hillside Rd (5-0-0)
• Approved revised emergency certification for 29 Hillside Rd (5-0-0)
• Approved motion to join Open Space Committee to pursue $100,000 Conservation Fund for FY 2026 (5-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0-0)

South County Senior Center Board of Oversight

The South County Senior Center Board of Oversight will hold a meeting on September 24, 2025. The agenda includes a discussion with edmSTUDIO about the property at 112 Amherst Rd., Sunderland. A public comment period will be provided, limited to two minutes per speaker for a total of twenty minutes. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion with edmSTUDIO regarding 112 Amherst Rd., Sunderland
• Public comment period (2 minutes per speaker, up to 20 minutes total)

The board heard a presentation from edmSTUDIO on using 112 Amherst Road as a possible South County Senior Center site and discussed costs, zoning changes, and lease options. No formal action on the project was taken. The board then voted to adjourn the meeting, with the motion moved by Joyce Palmer‑Fortune and seconded by Trevor McDaniel.

• Adjourned meeting (motion by Joyce Palmer‑Fortune, seconded by Trevor McDaniel)

Frontier Community Access Television Board of Directors

The Frontier Community Access Television Board will approve minutes from recent meetings and hear the General Manager's report. The board will receive updates on a new HD channel server purchase and on cable franchise renegotiations affecting Deerfield, Sunderland, and Whately. Additional topics include changing employee reimbursement to ACH payments, exploring equipment for live streaming, and authorizing a fundraiser using Terrazzo gift cards.

• Update on purchasing a new HD Channel server
• Update on cable franchise renegotiations for Deerfield, Sunderland, and Whately
• Changing FCAT employee reimbursement policies to ACH payments
• Discussion to sell Terrazzo Gift Cards as a fundraiser
• Planning 20th Anniversary celebration party for January 2026

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on a special permit application filed by Deerfield Railyard LLC for 6 Railroad Yard Road. The request seeks to use 6,000 square feet of existing warehouse space as a private club with three pickleball courts in the Commercial II district. The board will also consider approval of the minutes from the August 21, 2025 meeting and address any other business brought up.

• Special Permit for 6 Railroad Yard Road – private club with 3 pickleball courts, 6,000 sq ft, Commercial II district
• Approval of minutes from 8/21/2025
• New Business (unspecified items)
• Other Business
• Discussion, mail, and any unanticipated items

The Zoning Board approved the minutes from the August 21 meeting (4-0-0). It then approved a special permit for 6 Railroad Yard Road to operate as a private club, adding a condition that prohibits alcohol sales (4-0-0). The meeting was adjourned at 8:41 p.m. (4-0-0).

• Approved minutes of 8/21/2025 (4-0-0)
• Closed hearing on special permit for 6 Railroad Yard Road (4-0-0)
• Approved special permit for 6 Railroad Yard Road as private club, forbidding alcohol sales (4-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0-0)

Conservation Commission

The Deerfield Conservation Commission will meet to consult with an ad hoc Senior Housing Committee and conduct a site walk at 81 North Main Street. The meeting is scheduled for September 18, 2025, at 6:00 pm.

• Consultation with ad hoc Senior Housing Committee
• Site walk at 81 North Main St. and adjacent playing field
• Meeting guidelines and public comment period
• Upcoming meeting scheduled for September 25, 2025

The Conservation Commission approved a motion to adjourn at 7:15 pm with a 3‑0‑0 vote. Later, a second motion to adjourn at 7:20 pm was approved with a 4‑0‑0 vote. No other decisions were made regarding the senior housing or wetland issues discussed.

• Adjourn meeting at 7:15 pm (approved 3-0-0)
• Adjourn meeting at 7:20 pm (approved 4-0-0)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Deerfield Selectboard and Board of Health will hold a hybrid meeting on September 17, 2025 at 6:00 PM to address several agenda items. Key discussion items include a $15,000 feasibility proposal for a senior center at 8 Conway St., a review of the draft Special Town Meeting warrant for October 29, 2025, and a one‑day liquor license request for Deerfield Academy on October 28, 2025. The meeting also covers board expansions, a cable license renewal hearing, appointments to the Tri‑Town Beach Commission, and resignations of two Library Trustees.

• $15,000 senior center feasibility proposal – 8 Conway St.
• Review of Draft Special Town Meeting Warrant for Oct 29, 2025
• One‑Day Liquor License application for Deerfield Academy (Oct 28, 2025)
• Expansion of Selectboard to five members (hearing for David Wolfram)
• Appointment of Annette Pfannebecker to Tri‑Town Beach Commission

The Deerfield Selectboard approved a $350,000 GAAP grant (with a $576,000 town match) to fund electrical upgrades at the Old Deerfield Wastewater Treatment Plant. It also approved a $15,000 senior‑center feasibility study, opened the Special Town Meeting warrant for Oct. 29, 2025, and granted a one‑day liquor license for Deerfield Academy on Oct. 28, 2025. Additional actions included appointing a Tri‑Town Beach Commission member, accepting two library trustee resignations, and approving a veterans‑services intermunicipal agreement.

• Approved GAAP grant application $350,000 (3‑0‑0)
• Approved $15,000 senior‑center feasibility proposal (3‑0‑0)
• Opened Special Town Meeting warrant for Oct 29, 2025 (3‑0‑0)
• Approved one‑day liquor license for Deerfield Academy (3‑0‑0)
• Appointed Annette Pfannebecker to Tri‑Town Beach Commission (3‑0‑0)
• Accepted resignations of Nancy Maynard and Marjorie Shearer from Library Board (3‑0‑0)
• Approved Upper Pioneer Valley Veterans Services intermunicipal agreement (3‑0‑0)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Deerfield Selectboard and Board of Health will meet remotely on September 17, 2025. Public comment is suspended. An executive session with the Town Administrator and Town Counsel will be held to discuss strategy for collective bargaining with United Public Service Employees Union Local 424M-MADIV-118 representing the Deerfield Highway Department. The session will not reconvene in open session.

• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy with United Public Service Employees Union Local 424M-MADIV-118 Deerfield Highway Department

The Deerfield Selectboard approved a $350,000 GAAP grant with a $576,000 town match for electrical upgrades at the Old Deerfield Wastewater Treatment Plant. It also approved a $15,000 senior‑center feasibility study, opened the Special Town Meeting warrant for Oct. 29, 2025, and granted a one‑day liquor license for Deerfield Academy. Additional actions included a beach‑commission appointment, acceptance of two library trustee resignations, and approval of a veterans‑services intermunicipal agreement. All votes were 3‑aye, 0‑no, 0‑abstain.

• Approved $15,000 senior center feasibility study (8 Conway St) (3-0-0)
• Opened Special Town Meeting warrant for Oct 29, 2025 (3-0-0)
• Approved one‑day liquor license for Deerfield Academy on Oct 28, 2025 (3-0-0)
• Appointed Annette Pfannebecker to Tri‑Town Beach Commission (3-0-0)
• Accepted resignations of Nancy Maynard and Marjorie Shearer from Tilton Library Board (3-0-0)
• Approved GAAP grant ($350,000) and authorized chair to sign (3-0-0)
• Approved Upper Pioneer Valley Veterans Services intermunicipal agreement (3-0-0)

Community Preservation Committee

The Deerfield Community Preservation Committee will consider several agenda items, including approving the minutes from the August 13, 2025 meeting, electing officers, discussing the CPC plan with Andrea Donlon, reviewing a draft CPA grant award, and examining proposed edits to a conservation‑land application. The meeting is scheduled for September 17, 2025 at 6:15 pm and will be held remotely via Zoom.

• Approve minutes from 8‑13‑2025
• Election of officers
• CPC plan discussion with Andrea Donlon
• Review of CPA grant award draft
• Proposed edits to conservation‑land application/amendment

The committee approved the August 13, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimously with two abstentions). Kathy Sylvester was unanimously reelected as Chair and Julie was unanimously reelected as Vice‑Chair. The committee adopted the edited wording for the CPC funding award letter, including adding the Town Administrator to the signature lines. No new Clerk was appointed; members discussed rotating Clerk duties but took no formal action.

• Approved August 13, 2025 minutes (unanimous, two abstentions)
• Re‑elected Chair Kathy Sylvester (unanimous)
• Re‑elected Vice‑Chair Julie (unanimous)
• Adopted edited wording for CPC funding award letter (all approved)
• Adjoined meeting (all approved)

South County Senior Center Board of Oversight

The South County Senior Center Board of Oversight will consider approval of draft meeting minutes. members will receive updates on grants affecting the senior center. a discussion will be held about the property at 112 Amherst Rd., Sunderland. public comment is limited to 20 minutes total.

• Approval of draft minutes
• Grant updates for the senior center
• Discussion of 112 Amherst Rd., Sunderland

The board voted to support a feasibility study of 8 Conway Street in South Deerfield as an alternate location for the South County Senior Center. The board also unanimously approved the draft minutes for meetings held earlier in the year. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved feasibility study of 8 Conway Street as alternate senior center site
• Approved draft minutes for April 3, May 8, June 9, July 7, July 22, Aug. 7, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting

Board of Assessors

The Deerfield Board of Assessors will review the minutes from the September 2, 2025 meeting. It will discuss the 2025 Motor Vehicle Excise Commitment #5 and the 2026 Water Liens. The board will consider motor vehicle abatement and exemption requests. An executive session will be held to address compliance with MGL Chapter 59 requirements.

• Review minutes from 09/02/2025
• Consider 2025 Motor Vehicle Excise Commitment #5
• Discuss 2026 Water Liens
• Consider motor vehicle abatement/exemption requests
• Executive session under MGL c.30A §21(a)(7) for Chapter 59 compliance

The Board accepted the September 2, 2025 meeting minutes with a 2‑0 vote. Payables were approved and signed. The 2025 Motor Vehicle Excise Commitment #5 was approved and signed. Motor Vehicle Excise abatements were processed using the signature stamp.

• Accepted September 2, 2025 minutes (2-0)
• Approved payables (signed)
• Approved 2025 Motor Vehicle Excise Commitment #5 (signed)
• Processed Motor Vehicle Excise abatements (signature stamp used)

1888 Building Advisory Committee

The 1888 Building Advisory Committee will review the August 15, 2025 meeting minutes. It will discuss project updates presented by the Owner’s Project Manager (P3), the architect Kuhn Riddle, and the Town of Deerfield, including a groundbreaking ceremony. The committee will note other project updates, set the next meeting for October 10, 2025, and then adjourn.

• Review August 15, 2025 meeting minutes
• Project update from P3, Owner’s Project Manager
• Project update from Kuhn Riddle, Architect
• Town of Deerfield update on groundbreaking ceremony
• Schedule next meeting for October 10, 2025

The 1888 Building Advisory Committee approved the minutes from August 15, 2025 with a 3-0-2 vote. The committee heard project updates, including a $1.2 M budget reduction for the P3 demolition project. The meeting was then adjourned with a unanimous 5-0-0 vote. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved August 15, 2025 minutes (3-0-2)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0-0)

Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee

The Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee will meet on Sept 12, 2025 at 2:00 PM, both in person at 12 School Street, Sunderland, MA and via Zoom. The agenda lists a discussion of the Comcast cable franchise renewal as the primary item. No other specific actions or decisions are detailed in the agenda.

• Discussion of Comcast cable franchise renewal

Library Board of Trustees

The Tilton Library Board of Trustees will meet via Zoom to review the accommodation policy for the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board (MAAB).

• Review of Massachusetts Architectural Access Board (MAAB) Accommodation Policy

The Board discussed use of the upper floor during elevator work and a request for temporary additional staffing. The Board voted to approve the Accommodation Policy (4-1-0). The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved Accommodation Policy for Tilton Library Expansion (4-1-0)
• Adjourned meeting unanimously

Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP)

The Deerfield Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness Core Group will vote to adopt the meeting minutes and review updates on the MVP 2.0 Grant and FY25 Action Grant, including landowner outreach on the Deerfield River floodplain. The board will consider the next round of MVP grants focused on Upper Bloody Brook flood storage and finalize plans for a flood resiliency workshop. An update on the first phase of PL-566 public information will also be provided before setting the next meeting date.

• Vote to adopt MVP meeting minutes
• Discussion of MVP 2.0 Grant and MVP FY25 Action Grant with Deerfield River floodplain outreach
• Next round of MVP grants targeting Upper Bloody Brook flood storage
• Final plans for flood resiliency workshop (flyer, leaf bags, native plants, student coordination)
• Update on PL-566 first‑phase public information

Mason moved to accept the minutes from 08/19/25, 01/29/25, 01/06/25, 12/02/24, 10/10/24, 06/06/24 and 02/05/24; Hilchey seconded and the motion passed unanimously. At the close of the meeting, Denise moved to adjourn, Tim seconded, and the motion passed unanimously.

• Accepted minutes of 08/19/25, 01/29/25, 01/06/25, 12/02/24, 10/10/24, 06/06/24, 02/05/24 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Cultural Council

The Deerfield Cultural Council will discuss outreach and promotion for the upcoming grant cycle, which has a deadline of October 16 and includes grants under $250. A guest, town planner Alex Galloway, will present ideas for murals on utility boxes in the new Leary Lot. The council will also review the LCC portal guidelines and decide whether to maintain a social‑media/web presence. The meeting will conclude with setting the next meeting date.

• Guest presentation by Alex Galloway on murals for utility boxes in the new Leary Lot
• Review of guidelines and discussion of the LCC portal (massculturalcouncil.smartsimple.com)
• Determine outreach plan for the grant cycle (press release, media outreach, social‑media blurb; grants under $250; deadline Oct 16)
• Decide on maintaining a social‑media/web presence for the council
• Set date for the next council meeting

Tri-Town Beach Commission

The Tri-Town Beach Commission will hold an in-person meeting to discuss last season’s recap, current projects like tree issues and dock expansion, and preliminary plans for 2026 staffing and programs. The board will also review minutes, address open issues such as water quality and security upgrades, and consider a blanket financial approval for routine decisions.

• Tree issues update and fall schedule
• Dock expansion project
• Security cameras and WiFi installation
• 2026 season staffing and program planning
• Blanket financial approval for day-to-day seasonal decisions

The commission voted 2-0 to allow two duck houses and two hen tubes to be installed in the beach pond. It also voted 2-0 to approve repairs to the gazebo, including a new roof and cupola. The board set the next meeting for October 3rd. The meeting was adjourned by a 2-0 vote.

• Approved installation of two duck houses and two hen tubes (2-0)
• Approved gazebo roof and cupola repairs (2-0)
• Scheduled next meeting for Oct 3 (unanimous agreement)
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct a public hearing regarding a solar electric generating facility application. The board will also review an alternate subdivision presentation and receive updates on ADU bylaws.

• Public hearing for Allen Chase Foundation solar facility at Jingle Hill and Keets Roads (Map 42 Lot 7)
• Alternate subdivision presentation for 144 North Main Street
• Letter of Endorsement for Climate Leaders Town Meeting Article
• Model ADU Bylaw/ADU Bylaw Committee update
• Site Plan Review for 253 Greenfield Road withdrawn

The board approved the Limited Site Plan Review Application for a 400.8‑kilowatt ground‑mounted solar facility on the Allen Chase Foundation site at Keets Road and Jingle Hill Road, adding conditions such as road signage (vote 5‑0‑2). It also approved a letter endorsing three Climate Leaders warrant articles (vote 7‑0‑0) and withdrew a previously approved Site Plan Review for 253 Greenfield Road. The minutes from the August 11 meeting were accepted (vote 6‑0‑1) and the meeting was adjourned (vote 7‑0‑0).

• Approved Limited Site Plan Review Application with conditions (5-0-2)
• Approved letter endorsing Climate Leaders warrant articles (7-0-0)
• Withdrew approved Site Plan Review for 253 Greenfield Road (unanimous agreement)
• Accepted amended minutes of 8/11/2025 (6-0-1)
• Adjourned meeting (7-0-0)

Historical Commission

The Deerfield Historical Commission will convene to review ongoing projects like tree work at the Old Deerfield Burial Ground and a Mill Village Cemetery funding application. Members will discuss collaboration with the Open Space Committee and plans for a memorial service. Candidates for membership will introduce themselves, and the commission will elect a principal member and alternates.

• Old Deerfield Burial Ground: perimeter tree work and central area tree review
• Mill Village Cemetery: application for Community Preservation Committee funds
• John Nove memorial service planned for October 26, 2:00–4:00 p.m. at White Church Community Center
• Candidates for membership to introduce themselves and answer questions
• Election of principal member and alternate(s) scheduled

The Deerfield Historical Commission voted to recognize the 1821 South Deerfield Congregational Church at 71 N. Main Street as a locally significant historic resource and eligible for Community Preservation Act funding (4 in favor, 1 abstention). The commission also recommended Jennie McAvoy for a full voting seat and Paul Olszewski and Rocky Foley as alternates to the Selectboard. Minutes from the August 11 meeting were approved as corrected, and the budget report noted $1,175 remains with no expenditures since the last meeting.

• Recognized 1821 South Deerfield Congregational Church as historic resource and eligible for CAP funding (4-0-1)
• Approved minutes of August 11, 2025 as corrected (unanimous)
• Recommended Jennie McAvoy as full voting member to the Selectboard
• Recommended Paul Olszewski and Rocky Foley as alternates to the Selectboard
• Budget report: $1,175 remains, no monies expended since last meeting
• Assigned Ben, Bonita, and Henrietta to discuss commission involvement in John Nove’s memorial service
• Ben to provide Pat Martin a list of individuals entitled to view commission records
• Commission to attend Open Space Committee meeting regarding signage for Old Deerfield Common

Connecting Community Initiative

The agenda consists of procedural boilerplate. The committee will approve minutes from June 12, 2025, and provide committee update reports.

• Approval of June 12, 2025 minutes
• Committee updates report

The Connecting Community Initiative Committee approved the June 12, 2025 minutes (8‑yes, 2‑abstain). It voted to support a study of the 112 Amherst Road site and to endorse three articles for a special town meeting to become a Climate Leader Community. The Finance Committee approved a 20% mid‑year increase to town health‑insurance costs. The Planning Board approved a lavender farm on Stillwater north of Mycoterra.

• Approved June 12, 2025 minutes (8‑yes, 2‑abstain)
• Voted to support study of 112 Amherst Rd site
• Voted to endorse three articles for Climate Leader Community special town meeting
• Approved 20% mid‑year health‑insurance cost increase
• Approved lavender farm on Stillwater north of Mycoterra

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Deerfield Selectboard and Board of Health will meet in a hybrid format to hear a report on FY26 sewer capital projects and rate proposals, discuss library relocation, review parking flow on the municipal campus, and consider revisions to a local brewery’s entertainment license. The board will also appoint a new FRTA Advisory Board member and schedule a future sewer-rate hearing.

• FY26 sewer capital projects and sewer-rate discussion led by Chief Wastewater Operator Eric Meals
• Tilton Library move-in plans reviewed
• Parking circulation changes proposed for the municipal campus
• Tree House Brewing Company Entertainment License revisions considered
• Appointment of Robert Decker, III to FRTA Advisory Board (term July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026) proposed

The board voted 3‑0 to support applying for a grant that could fund up to $750,000 of sewer infrastructure improvements. It also approved the August 20 and August 18 Joint Finance Committee minutes, appointed Robert J. Decker III to the FRTA Advisory Board, and set a tentative date of November 12 or 19 for the FY26 sewer rate hearing. The meeting was adjourned at 6:46 p.m. by a unanimous vote.

• Approved support for grant application for sewer upgrades (3-0-0)
• Approved August 20 and August 18 Joint Finance Committee minutes (3-0-0)
• Appointed Robert J. Decker III to FRTA Advisory Board (3-0-0)
• Tentatively scheduled FY26 sewer rate hearing for Nov 12 or Nov 19
• Approved adjournment at 6:46 p.m. (3-0-0)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Deerfield Selectboard and Board of Health will meet remotely to discuss collective bargaining strategy with the United Public Service Employees Union and consider an offer of employment for the Recreation Director.

• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining with United Public Service Employees Union Local 424M-MADIV-118
• Open session to consider Recreation Director offer of employment
• Meeting held remotely via Zoom due to House Bill 62 of the 194th General Court

The board voted 3‑0 to support applying for a grant to fund sewer system improvements and authorized the Town Administrator to sign the application. It also approved the August 20 and August 18 joint Finance Committee minutes (3‑0) and appointed Robert J. Decker III to the FRTA Advisory Board for a one‑year term (3‑0). The meeting was adjourned by a 3‑0 vote.

• Approved support for sewer grant application and authorized Town Administrator to sign (3-0-0)
• Approved August 20 and August 18, 2025 Joint Finance Committee minutes (3-0-0)
• Appointed Robert J. Decker III to FRTA Advisory Board, term July 1 2025–June 30 2026 (3-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:46 pm (3-0-0)

Library Board of Trustees

The Library Board of Trustees will meet via Zoom to review the Director's report and vote on the minutes from the August 6, 2025 meeting. The agenda consists of procedural items.

• Vote on August 6, 2025 meeting minutes
• Director's Report

The Trustees approved the August 6, 2025 meeting minutes. They adopted a position to open only the first floor of the new library until the elevator is installed, with a unanimous vote. The board also agreed to post a special meeting on Monday 9/8 to develop a policy for the library opening. The meeting was adjourned at 7:20 p.m.

• Approved August 6, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted position to open only first floor before elevator installation (unanimous)
• Agreed to post special meeting on Monday 9/8 to develop opening policy
• Tasked Town Administrator Chris Dunne to complete direction letter
• Moved to adjourn the meeting (unanimous)

Tilton Library Building Committee

The committee will meet to review minutes from the July 28, 2025 meeting. The primary discussion will focus on an AAB waiver and the Certificate of Occupancy for temporary space.

• Discussion of AAB waiver
• Discussion of Certificate of Occupancy for temporary space

The Tilton Library Building Committee approved the June 30, 2025 minutes after a motion by Julie Chalfant and a second by Tim Hilchey. The meeting was then adjourned following a motion by Julie and a second by Vern. No other formal actions were decided.

• Accepted 6/30/25 minutes (motion made, seconded)
• Adjourned meeting (motion made, seconded)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review motor vehicle abatements and exemption requests. The board will also consider requests for comments regarding Map 42 Lot 7 and Map 122 Lot 4.

• Request for Comments: Map 42 Lot 7
• Request for Comments: Map 122 Lot 4
• Motor Vehicle Abatements
• Abatement/Exemption Requests

The Board accepted the August 19, 2025 meeting minutes with a 2‑0 vote. Payables were approved and signed. Motor vehicle excise abatements were processed as listed. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Accepted August 19, 2025 minutes (2-0 vote)
• Approved and signed payables
• Processed motor vehicle excise abatements per attached list

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on several Notices of Intent, including a solar facility and a secondary access drive. The body will also consider a Request for Determination of Applicability for work at 37B Eastern Ave and discuss enforcement and restoration plans for 222 Upper Road.

• Notice of Intent from Allen Chase Foundation for a solar electric generating facility at Jingle Hill and Keets Roads
• Notice of Intent from Tree House Brewing Company, Inc. for a secondary access drive at 1 Community Place & 0 Greenfield Road
• Request for Determination of Applicability for 37B Eastern Ave filed by Shawn & Jennifer Denkiewicz
• Public hearing for Sugarloaf Brook obstruction removal filed by John Paciorek
• Public hearing for playground surface and equipment at 21 Pleasant Street filed by Darius Modestow

The Conservation Commission accepted the August 28 meeting minutes (4-0-0). It approved the Notice of Intent to remove obstructions from Sugarloaf Brook (4-0-0) and continued the hearing on the 21 Pleasant Street playground project to September 25 (4-0-0). The board approved a Form 2b negative finding for the 37B Sugarloaf RDA (4-0-0), approved the solar electric generating facility at Jingle Hill and Keets Roads (4-0-0), and approved the Tree House Brewing secondary access drive with conditions (4-0-0). Emergency certificates for Brookside Cemetery and Hillside Culvert were ratified (4-0-0) and the meeting was adjourned (4-0-0).

• Accepted meeting minutes (4-0-0)
• Accepted Sugarloaf Brook obstruction removal NOI (4-0-0)
• Continued 21 Pleasant Street playground hearing to 9/25/2025 (4-0-0)
• Approved Form 2b negative finding for 37B Sugarloaf RDA (4-0-0)
• Approved Jingle Hill & Keets Road solar facility NOI with conditions (4-0-0)
• Approved Tree House Brewing secondary access drive NOI with conditions (4-0-0)
• Ratified emergency certificates for Brookside Cemetery and Hillside Culvert (4-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0-0)

Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee

The Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee will meet to discuss the renewal of the Comcast Cable Franchise. The meeting will be held in person at the FCAT offices in Sunderland and via Zoom.

• Discussion of Comcast Cable Franchise Renewal
• Hybrid meeting at FCAT offices, 12 School Street, Sunderland
• Remote participation via Zoom and phone

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings for four new special permit applications and continue one existing hearing. The board is reviewing requests for business operations and signage at various properties in Deerfield.

• Special Permit for 6 Railroad Yard Road: use of 6,000 sq ft warehouse for a private club with 3 pickleball courts
• Special Permit for 3 Sugarloaf Street: operation of a Tap Room
• Special Permit for 198 Mill Village Road: operation of a landscape business
• Special Permit for 253 Greenfield Road: motor vehicle repairs and sales
• Special Permit for 25 Greenfield Road: Yankee Candle Company request for a sign exceeding 32 square feet

The Deerfield Zoning Board of Appeals approved the minutes of the June 9 meeting (3-0-1). It continued the hearing on the 6 Railroad Yard Road special permit (4-0-0). The board approved special permits with conditions for a tap room at 3 Sugarloaf Street, a landscaping business at 198 Mill Village Road, a vehicle‑repair shop at 253 Greenfield Road, and a Yankee Candle sign at 25 Greenfield Road, each by a 5‑0‑0 vote.

• Approved June 9 minutes (3-0-1)
• Continued hearing for 6 Railroad Yard Road special permit (4-0-0)
• Approved Special Permit for 3 Sugarloaf Street tap room with conditions (5-0-0)
• Approved Special Permit for 198 Mill Village Road landscaping business with conditions (5-0-0)
• Approved Special Permit for 253 Greenfield Road vehicle repair shop with conditions (5-0-0)
• Approved Special Permit for Yankee Candle sign at 25 Greenfield Road, extending temporary signs (5-0-0)

Energy Conservation Committee

The Deerfield Energy Conservation Committee will meet remotely to review draft minutes, discuss a potential new member, and advance its Climate Leadership Program and Green Communities initiatives. Members will also consider municipal projects like bike lanes and geothermal energy, as well as coordination with other committees.

• Review draft minutes of prior meeting
• Discuss Climate Leadership Program requirements and carbon roadmap
• Review MassSave incentive payment of over $7,000 for DES work
• Consider bike lanes and geothermal projects
• Schedule next meeting

The committee moved to adjust the agenda so Ted Harvey could speak first, and the motion passed unanimously. The draft minutes from June 17 and July 17 were accepted unanimously. The committee recommended that the Select Board appoint Ryan Kingston as a volunteer member, which was approved unanimously. The committee also endorsed three warrant articles – a specialized building code, a municipal building decarbonization commitment by 2050, and a zero‑emissions vehicle first policy – all approved unanimously.

• Adjust agenda to let Ted Harvey speak first – approved unanimously
• Accept draft minutes of 6/17 and 7/17 – approved unanimously
• Recommend Select Board appoint Ryan Kingston to committee – approved unanimously
• Endorse warrant article 1: specialized building code – approved unanimously
• Endorse warrant article 2: municipal building decarbonization by 2050 – approved unanimously
• Endorse warrant article 3: zero‑emissions vehicle first policy – approved unanimously
• Adjourn meeting – approved unanimously

South County Senior Center Board of Oversight

The South County Senior Center Board of Oversight will hold a remote meeting via Zoom on August 21, 2025. The agenda is procedural, including call to order, meeting guidelines, and public comment. An update on 112 Amherst Rd., Sunderland, is listed for discussion.

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Deerfield Selectboard will hold a public hearing on August 20, 2025 at 6:00 pm to consider a petition from Verizon New England and NStar Electric d/b/a Eversource Energy to erect poles, wires, and fixtures on County Road in Deerfield. The hearing is hybrid, allowing both in-person and remote attendance via Zoom.

• Public hearing on Verizon & Eversource pole petition for County Road
• Hybrid meeting (in-person at 8 Conway Street, South Deerfield and Zoom)
• Full petition plans available at Town Offices or website

The Deerfield Selectboard voted unanimously on several actions, including approving two new utility poles on County Road and endorsing the Public Health Excellence grant. It also extended the FRCOG Community Preservation Committee contract, awarded a Town Hall painting contract, and approved solid waste management MOUs. Additional approvals covered the annual townwide tag sale, sewer bill abatements, and the appointment of a new Assistant Superintendent for the DPW.

• Approved installation of two new poles on County Road (3-0-0)
• Endorsed the Statement of Commitment for the Public Health Excellence Grant (3-0-0)
• Approved FRCOG Community Preservation Committee Plan contract extension to Dec 31, 2025 (3-0-0)
• Awarded Town Hall painting contract to Fortin Painting for $11,350 (3-0-0)
• Approved Franklin County Solid Waste Management District MOUs covering recycling, waste, hazardous waste and sludge (3-0-0)
• Approved Annual Townwide Tag Sale on Oct 4, 2025 (3-0-0)
• Approved sewer bill abatements for 42 Thayer St ($878.32), 32 Graves St ($256.11), 19 Kelleher Dr ($590.04) and denied for 6 Elm St (3-0-0 each)
• Appointed Kyle Bessette as Assistant Superintendent of the DPW (3-0-0)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Selectboard and Board of Health will meet to decide on several municipal contracts, personnel appointments, and liquor license requests. The body will also hold hearings regarding utility poles on County Rd. and property maintenance on South Main Street and Meetinghouse.

• Notice of award to Fortin Painting for Town Hall painting project for $11,350
• Pole Petition Hearing for two new poles on County Rd.
• Sewer abatements for 42 Thayer St., 32 Graves St., 19 Kelleher Dr., and 6 Elm St.
• FRCOG CPC Plan Contract Extension through December 31, 2025
• One-day liquor license requests for Franklin Land Trust for August 22 and 23

The Deerfield Selectboard approved the installation of two new utility poles on County Road and endorsed the Public Health Excellence grant. It also awarded a $11,350 painting contract for Town Hall, extended the FRCOG CPC Plan contract, and approved several other items including transportation fees, a waived liquor‑license fee, a solid‑waste MOU, a town‑wide tag sale, sewer‑bill abatements, staff appointments, and letters of support.

• Approved two new poles on County Road (3-0-0)
• Endorsed Public Health Excellence grant (3-0-0)
• Awarded Town Hall painting contract to Fortin Painting for $11,350 (3-0-0)
• Approved FRCOG CPC Plan contract extension to Dec 31, 2025 (3-0-0)
• Approved Transportation Network Company fees of $174.30 (3-0-0)
• Waived permit fee for Franklin Land Trust one‑day liquor license (3-0-0)
• Approved solid‑waste MOU with Franklin County Solid Waste Management District (3-0-0)
• Approved annual town‑wide tag sale on Oct 4, 2025 (3-0-0)

Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP)

The Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness Core Group is meeting to discuss flood storage and protection efforts. The body will review geology reports, landowner outreach, and plans for a flood resiliency workshop. The group will also discuss the submittal of the MVP Plan to the EOEEA.

• Discussion of Field Geology Report findings for MVP 2.0 and FY25 Action Grants
• Update on Deerfield River Floodplain Protection landowner outreach
• Discussion on Upper Bloody Brook Flood Storage and Frontier Parking Lot plans
• Planning for Flood Resiliency Workshop, including 'Reduce Your Flood Risk' flyer
• Submittal of MVP Plan to EOEEA

The Deerfield MVP Committee adopted the May 7, June 18 and July 16 minutes. It agreed to request state funding for railroad‑owned culvert installations and set a September 10 planning meeting for the flood resiliency workshop. Several workshop details were finalized, including a speaker, presentation title change, and handout materials.

• Adopted minutes from May 7, June 18, and July 16 (no discussion)
• Agreed to request a state budget for railroad‑owned culvert installations in the fall
• Approved change of Megan’s presentation title to focus on native plants for invasive‑species control
• Decided to compile and distribute lists of native plants and invasive species with photos at the workshop
• Confirmed Rusty Daniels will present a 10‑minute segment at the upcoming event
• Scheduled a follow‑up workshop planning meeting for September 10 at 4:30 pm
• Adopted action items: finalize design specs by Friday; prepare presentation materials by next Tuesday; Nick to analyze railroad culverts and identify relief locations; Pete to update workshop flyer with local photos
• Motion to adjourn was made, seconded, and unanimously approved

Personnel Board

The Deerfield Personnel Board will meet remotely to discuss and decide on the FY26 Work Plan, review minutes from July 16, 2025, and receive updates from the Town Administrator including hirings and a health-insurance premium increase effective October 1, 2025.

• FY26 Work Plan discussion/decision
• Hampshire County Group Insurance Trust (HCGIT) premium increase effective October 1, 2025

The Deerfield Personnel Board approved the minutes from the July 16, 2025 meeting with a 2‑aye, 0‑no, 1‑abstain vote. The board then adjourned the August 19, 2025 meeting at 6:43 pm with a unanimous 3‑aye vote. No other actions were formally decided.

• Approved July 16, 2025 minutes (2-0-1)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:43 pm (3-0-0)

Board of Assessors

The Deerfield Board of Assessors will meet to approve minutes from the previous meeting, discuss a held-over property assessment question (Map 116 Lot 14), and review motor vehicle abatement requests. The board will also hold an executive session to comply with state law regarding property tax exemptions.

• Review minutes from 08/05/2025 meeting
• Address assessment question for Map 116 Lot 14
• Consider motor vehicle abatement requests
• Executive session for property tax exemption compliance

The Board approved the minutes from the August 5, 2025 meeting with a 2‑0 vote. It signed a letter explaining quarterly billing and the land assessment for Map 116 Lot 14. Motor vehicle excise abatements were processed using the signature stamp.

• Accepted 08/05/2025 meeting minutes (2-0 vote)
• Signed letter explaining quarterly billing and land assessment for Map 116 Lot 14
• Processed motor vehicle excise abatements per attached list (signature stamp used)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Selectboard, Board of Health, and Sewer Commissioners will meet to make decisions regarding funding for the South County Senior Center and the scheduling of a Special Town Meeting. The body will also address an insurance trust increase and receive updates on various town infrastructure projects.

• Funding decisions for South County Senior Center feasibility, renovations, and lease payments
• Scheduling and agenda items for a Special Town Meeting
• Hampshire County Group Insurance Trust (HCGIT) increase effective October 1, 2025
• Project updates for Tilton Library expansion and Elm Street Complete Streets
• Project updates for Stillwater Bridge and Landfill Solar

The board approved a feasibility study costing up to $10,000 to evaluate relocation or expansion of the South County Senior Center at 112 Amherst Road. A motion to adjourn the meeting was passed unanimously (3-0-0). Public comment was suspended until the next regular Selectboard meeting on August 20, 2025. Other items, such as a special town meeting proposal and insurance rate increase, were discussed but no decisions were recorded.

• Approved up to $10,000 feasibility study for South County Senior Center (no vote recorded)
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously (3-0-0)
• Public comment suspended until Aug 20, 2025 (no vote recorded)
• Discussed proposal for special town meeting on Nov 3, 2025 (no decision)
• Reviewed HCGIT insurance rate increase; no decision made

1888 Building Advisory Committee

The committee will review meeting minutes from May and June 2025. Members will discuss project updates involving P3 Owner’s Project Manager, Kuhn Riddle Architect, and a USDA update from the Town of Deerfield.

• Review of May 9, 2025 and June 13, 2025 meeting minutes
• Discussion of August 12 pre-construction meeting with WJ Mountford
• USDA update from the Town of Deerfield

The committee voted to authorize the Owner’s Project Manager, P3, to approve change orders for the 1888 Building Project up to $25,000, with the Town Administrator’s authorization. The motion was made by Julie Chalfant, seconded by Vern Harrington and Tim Hilchey, and passed unanimously (3‑0‑0). The meeting was then adjourned at 10:33 am by a unanimous motion.

• Authorized P3 OPM to approve change orders up to $25,000 (3-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:33 am (3-0-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission is meeting to conduct a site visit regarding a Notice of Intent (NOI) for Sugarloaf Brook. The meeting will take place at the Cross Street culvert.

• Site visit for Sugarloaf Brook NOI at Cross Street culvert

DEDIC

The Deerfield Economic Development & Industrial Corporation will meet to review a letter from the Economic Development Planner. The committee will also discuss potholes on Industrial Drive East.

• Review of letter from Alex, Economic Development Planner
• Discussion of potholes on Industrial Drive East

The board accepted the FYEOY revenue‑expense report as presented. The draft minutes from the June 12, 2025 meeting were approved unanimously with one abstention. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Accepted FYEOY Rev.Exp report (no vote tally recorded)
• Approved draft 6/12/2025 DEDIC minutes (unanimous with one abstention)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous approval)

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will review a plan with Andrea Donlon and discuss edits to the conservation land application. The body will also address the ConCom conservation fund and the timing of progress reports for the 1888 building.

• CPC plan with Andrea Donlon
• Application amendment for Conservation land
• Potential bylaw amendment
• ConCom conservation fund
• 1888 building progress reports

The Deerfield Community Preservation Committee approved the minutes from the July 16, 2025 meeting. Members voted to change the 1888 building progress reports from six‑monthly to annual. The committee also approved holding a public meeting to present the CPC plan. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved minutes from July 16, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved change to annual reports for the 1888 building project (unanimous)
• Approved public meeting to advertise the CPC plan (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Deerfield Planning Board will hold hybrid public hearings on August 11, 2025, regarding a driveway permit for 81 Stillwater Road and a secondary access drive for 1 Community Place. The board will also review minutes from the previous meeting and discuss an update on Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) bylaws.

• Public Hearing: Special Permit for driveway at 81 Stillwater Road
• Public Hearing: Site Plan Review for secondary access at 1 Community Place
• Review of minutes from July 7, 2025
• Update on Model ADU Bylaw/ADU Bylaw Committee
• Withdrawn application for solar array at 160 Conway Road

The board approved a stormwater permit and a special driveway permit for 81 Stillwater Road, each with conditions, by a 5‑0‑0 vote. It also approved a stormwater permit and site plan for Tree House Brewing’s property at 1 Community Place, also by a 5‑0‑0 vote. The minutes of the July 7 meeting were accepted after amendment, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved Stormwater Permit for 81 Stillwater Road (5-0-0)
• Approved Special Permit for driveway >500' at 81 Stillwater Road (5-0-0)
• Approved Stormwater Permit for 1 Community Place (5-0-0)
• Approved Site Plan for 1 Community Place (5-0-0)
• Accepted amended minutes of 7/7/2025 (5-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0-0)

Historical Commission

The meeting agenda consists of procedural boilerplate. The commission will address officer elections and the potential expansion of its membership.

• Election of officers
• Consideration of expansion of membership

The Deerfield Historical Commission approved the June 6, 2025 minutes. The commission voted to increase its membership from seven to nine members, and Ben Bensen was nominated as Chair while Analee was nominated as Clerk. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved June 6, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Increased commission membership to 9 members (all in favor)
• Ben Bensen nominated Chair (all in favor)
• Analee nominated Clerk (all in favor)

South County Senior Center Board of Oversight

The South County Senior Center Board of Oversight will meet to discuss an update concerning 112 Amherst Rd. in Sunderland. The meeting includes a period for public comment.

• Update regarding 112 Amherst Rd., Sunderland

The board voted unanimously to approve the contract with EDMStudio for a feasibility study of the 112 Amherst Road senior center project. Deerfield will contribute roughly $4,000 toward the architectural review costs. The board discussed timelines for community forums and potential Special Town Meetings in October and November. The meeting was adjourned at 5:35 p.m.

• Approved contract with EDMStudio for feasibility study of 112 Amherst Road (unanimous)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Selectboard, Board of Health, and Sewer Commissioners will meet to discuss sewer abatement applications for five properties. The meeting also includes a presentation on the Deerfield River Wild Study.

• Presentation by Chris Curtis on the Deerfield River Wild Study
• Sewer abatement application: 32 Graves St
• Sewer abatement application: 6 Elm St.
• Sewer abatement application: 19 Kelleher Dr.
• Sewer abatement applications: 42 Thayer St and 73 Sugarloaf St.

The board approved three sets of Selectboard minutes unanimously (3-0-0). It also approved the sewer abatement application for Bill #3820 in the amount of $838.42, with a unanimous vote (3-0-0). A West Nile Virus update from the Mosquito District was approved. The meeting was adjourned unanimously (3-0-0).

• Approved three sets of Selectboard minutes (3-0-0)
• Approved sewer abatement for Bill #3820 – $838.42 (3-0-0)
• Approved West Nile Virus update from Mosquito District
• Adjourned meeting (3-0-0)

Library Board of Trustees

The Library Board of Trustees will meet via Zoom to review the Director's report and vote on previous meeting minutes. The agenda consists of procedural items.

• Vote on minutes from July 2, 2025 meeting
• Director’s Report

The board approved the July 2, 2025 meeting minutes. The trustees unanimously approved the Confidentiality Policy and the Sensory Room Policy. They decided to postpone the decision on moving the library to the new building until more information is available. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved July 2, 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved Confidentiality Policy (unanimous vote)
• Approved Sensory Room Policy (unanimous vote)
• Postponed decision on library move‑in to new building (vote not recorded)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss administrative items and property-specific requests. The body will review requests for comments on four specific map lots and address abatement and exemption requests. The meeting includes an executive session to comply with MGL Chapter 59 section 60 requirements.

• Requests for comments: Map 150 Lot 9, Map 169 Lot 115, Map 122 Lot 4, and Map 175 Lot 4
• 2026 Income & Expense Failure to File fees
• FY 2025 CP-1 Community Preservation Surcharge Report
• Motor Vehicle Abatements
• S. Deerfield Water District Mapping

The Board accepted the minutes from the July 15, 2025 meeting (motion carried 2‑0). It approved payables, the 2026 Income & Expense Failure‑to‑File fees, and the FY 2025 Community Preservation Surcharge Report. The clerk was tasked to request a water‑district map addition and to draft a letter on the Map 116 Lot 14 assessment question.

• Accepted July 15, 2025 minutes (2‑0)
• Approved payables (signed)
• Approved 2026 Income & Expense Failure‑to‑File fees
• Approved FY 2025 Community Preservation Surcharge Report
• Clerk to request water‑district map addition
• Clerk to draft letter on Map 116 Lot 14 assessment question

South County Senior Center Board of Oversight

The South County Senior Center Board of Oversight will meet to receive an update on 112 Amherst Rd. in Sunderland. The meeting also includes a period for public comment.

• Update regarding 112 Amherst Rd., Sunderland

Frontier Community Access Television Board of Directors

The Frontier Community Access Television Board of Directors will meet to discuss the 3-Town Cable Franchise Agreement and update station security protocols. The board will also consider a donation to the MassAccess Lobbying Campaign and the creation of a scholarship for seniors.

• Discussion with Joyce Palmer-Fortune regarding 3-Town Cable Franchise Agreement
• Proposed donation of $500 - $1000 to MassAccess Lobbying Campaign
• Updating security protocols for keys, equipment storage, and Google 2-step verification
• Establishment of the Chris Collins Memorial Scholarship For Frontier Seniors
• Update on new server and relocation

Tilton Library Building Committee

The committee is meeting to receive an update on the library elevator. Members will also discuss insurance policy cost differences, the building punch list process, and warranty coverage.

• Elevator update
• Cost comparison between builders insurance and town insurance
• Punch list process for the building excluding the elevator
• Warranty duration and coverage details

The committee voted to accept the minutes from the July 14, 2025 meeting. No substantive project approvals or budget items were decided. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted July 14 minutes (motion by Vern, second by Judy)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Judy, second by Julie)

Conservation Commission

The Deerfield Conservation Commission will hold public hearings to consider three filings related to the Wetlands Protection Act. The body will also discuss an enforcement order for Upper Road and funding for the Conservation Fund.

• Public hearing for Notice of Intent by Darius Modestow for playground equipment at 21 Pleasant Street
• Public hearing for Notice of Intent by John Paciorek to remove obstructions from Sugarloaf Brook
• Request for Determination of Applicability for work at 160 Conway Road
• Discussion of enforcement order and restoration plan for 222 Upper Road
• Discussion of CPA funding for the Conservation Fund

The commission voted to require filing a Notice of Intent for the solar panel project at 160 Conway Road. Motions to continue the playground improvement NOI and the Sugarloaf Brook hearing were also approved, scheduling further discussion at the August 28 meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 8:39 pm.

• Approved filing of a Notice of Intent for 160 Conway Road solar project (4:0:0)
• Approved continuation of 21 Pleasant Street playground NOI to Aug 28 meeting (4:0:0)
• Approved continuation of Sugarloaf Brook hearing to schedule site visit (4:0:0)
• Accepted minutes from 5/1/25 meeting (3:0:1)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:39 pm (4:0:0)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Selectboard and Board of Health will discuss funding and contracts for the 1888 Building Project. The body will also review sewer abatement applications and various board appointments.

• Execute $4,000,000 grant agreement with USDA Rural Development for 1888 Building Project
• Execute $5,933,000 construction contract with W.J. Mountford, Inc. for 1888 Building project
• Sewer abatement applications for 23 Crestview Drive, 151 North Main, 6 Elm St, 1 Gromacki Avenue, 25 King Philip Avenue, and 42 Thayer
• Hearing regarding Hoosac/Stillwater Roads cut-through across parcel 92-3.1
• Health insurance request for proposal from Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Association

The board approved the 19 sets of Selectboard minutes with a unanimous vote. It authorized the town to apply for a $4,000,000 USDA Rural Development grant and to execute a $5,933,000 construction contract with W.J. Mountford, Inc. for the 1888 Building Project. Additional actions included approving several sewer abatement payments, authorizing donation request letters, and appointing three individuals to local positions.

• Approved 19 sets of Selectboard minutes (3-0-0)
• Approved USDA Rural Development grant application $4,000,000 for 1888 Building Project (3-0-0)
• Approved $5,933,000 construction contract with W.J. Mountford, Inc. for 1888 Building Project (3-0-0)
• Approved sewer abatement Bill #11351 payment $2,530 (3-0-0)
• Approved sewer abatement Bill #9160 payment $348.77 (3-0-0)
• Approved letters to Home Depot and Loewe’s requesting leaf bag donations (3-0-0)
• Appointed Cayden Lehtomaki as WWTP Operator in Training (3-0-0)
• Appointed Rocky Foley to Deerfield Historical Commission (3-0-0)

Frontier Community Access Television Board of Directors

The Frontier Community Access Television Board of Directors will meet to discuss a 3-town cable franchise agreement and update station security protocols. The board will also consider a donation to a lobbying campaign and the creation of a scholarship for seniors.

• Donating $500 - $1000 to MassAccess Lobbying Campaign
• Establishment of the Chris Collins Memorial Scholarship For Frontier Seniors
• Updating security protocols regarding key sign-outs and equipment storage
• Discussion on 3-Town Cable Franchise Agreement Committee update
• Update on FCAT new server and relocation

South County Senior Center Board of Oversight

The South County Senior Center Board of Oversight will meet to discuss funding for an architect's design regarding a potential space. The meeting includes a period for public comment.

• Discussion of funding architect design for potential space

The board voted to adjourn the July 22 meeting. The motion was made by Murphy, seconded by McDaniel, and carried. No other substantive actions were decided.

• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will review the status of digital records storage and the return of Eaglebrook School archives. The body will also discuss landscaping and grave repairs at the Old Albany Road and Mill River cemeteries.

• Digital records storage and potential student involvement from Frontier History Department
• Status of Eaglebrook School archives' return
• Old Albany Road Cemetery landscaping
• Mill River Cemetery graves' repair and alignment

The Deerfield Historical Commission held a special meeting on July 21, 2025. No substantive business was acted on; the clerk’s report, budget report, and old business were each deferred. Future items such as a chair election and membership guidelines were noted for the August meeting. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 5:55 PM.

• Clerk’s report deferred
• Budget report deferred
• Old business deferred
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on several special permits and one variance request. The board will also conduct its annual reorganization.

• Variance request for 160 Conway Road to reduce east side setback from 50’ to 25’
• Special Permit for an 8,000 sq. ft. dog shelter at 0 Greenfield Road
• Special Permit for 0 Greenfield Road regarding Environmental Regulations bylaw exception
• Special Permit for 6,000 sq ft of warehouse space at 6 Railroad Yard Road for a private club with 3 pickleball courts

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted 5‑0‑0 to adopt the findings and approve the special permits for the dog shelter at 0 Greenfield Road, adding noise‑control conditions. The Board also authorized Town Counsel to finalize the written decision and the Chair to sign it. Additional items were continued to a later date, and the Board elected its officers.

• Approved findings and special permits for 0 Greenfield Road dog shelter with conditions (5-0-0)
• Authorized Town Counsel to finalize written decision and Chair to sign (5-0-0)
• Continued hearing on Special Permit 6 Railroad Yard Road to Aug 21 (5-0-0)
• Continued hearing on Variance 160 Conway Road to Aug 21 (5-0-0)
• Elected Mark Brennan as Vice Chair, Tia Christiansen as clerk, David Potter as Chair (5-0-0)
• Approved minutes of 6/9/25 as written (5-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0-0)

Energy Conservation Committee

The committee will review requirements and outreach for the Climate Leadership Program. Members will also discuss Green Communities, membership, and municipal projects including bike lanes and geothermal energy.

• Climate Leadership Program requirements and status
• Endorsement of citizen petitioned warrant articles
• Green Communities program
• Bike lanes within town and to neighboring communities
• Geothermal energy

The Energy Conservation Committee heard a presentation on home heating and geothermal heat pumps, discussed feasibility and recommendations, and noted upcoming actions by members. No policy or funding decisions were made. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous motion.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous approval)

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will meet to review a CPC plan with Andrea Donlon. The body will also discuss a banner or sign for the 1888 building project and a grant agreement template.

• CPC Plan with Andrea Donlon
• CPC banner/sign on 1888 building project
• Grant Agreement template

The committee approved the June 11, 2025 meeting minutes (8-1 vote). Members agreed to add wetlands protection and ADA‑access goals to the open‑space plan and to explore a town‑wide Conservation Fund. The discussion on a CPC banner for the 1888 building project was tabled. The committee reached consensus on a grant award letter template, including requirements for clear title, ownership proof, and progress reporting.

• Approved minutes from 6‑11‑25 (8‑1 vote)
• Added wetlands protection focus to open‑space plan (consensus)
• Added ADA access and trail‑signage goal to open‑space plan (consensus)
• Committee will study a Conservation Fund idea and review other towns' examples
• Tabled discussion on CPC banner/sign for 1888 building project
• Consensus on grant award letter template, including matching‑funds language and progress‑report requirements
• Required clear title and proof of ownership in grant applications (consensus)
• Decided procurement not needed for grant award letters (consensus)

Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP)

The Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness Core Group will discuss planning for a flood resiliency workshop and landowner outreach for the Deerfield River floodplain. The group will also review a geomorphic assessment memo for Bloody and Sugarloaf Brooks.

• Planning for Flood Resiliency Workshop
• Update on Deerfield River Floodplain Protection landowner outreach
• Review of GZA/Field Geomorphic Assessment Memo for Bloody and Sugarloaf Brooks
• Sugarloaf Brook Clearing Project permitting and request for property owner fliers

The Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness Core Group agreed on several action items for the September 28 flood‑resiliency workshop, including creating a homeowner‑maintenance flyer and preparing presenter handouts. They also assigned follow‑up tasks such as sending the updated MVP plan to the state, requesting water‑volume data, and addressing the Conway Street railroad culvert with the Select Board. Additional outreach actions were set for energy‑loan program speakers and leaf‑bag donations.

• Chris & Pete to create and finalize flyer on homeowner stream‑maintenance practices
• Chris to send updated MVP plan to EOEEA
• Tim to raise railroad culvert issue with Select Board and develop legislative outreach plan
• Chris to request water‑volume calculations from GZA for flood scenarios
• Chris to coordinate with Jillian Andrews for student presentation at Sept 28 workshop
• Pete & Chris to prepare handouts for all presenters at Sept 28 workshop
• Carolyn to coordinate with CET to identify speaker for Mass Energy Saver Home Loan program
• Lori to contact Home Depot about potential donation of leaf bags for the workshop

Personnel Board

The Personnel Board will meet to discuss and decide on job descriptions and pay information for inspectors and coordinators. The board will also review bereavement and vacation leave policies and the reinstitution of employee performance evaluations.

• Wiring Inspector job description and Gas/Plumbing Inspector pay information
• Grading of Conservation Agent and Land Use Coordinator positions
• Bereavement Policy and Vacation Leave policies
• Reinstituting employee performance evaluations
• Town Administrator updates on job search status

The Personnel Board approved the minutes from May 20, 2025 and the proposed wiring inspector job description, each by a 3‑0 vote. The board decided to grade the Conservation Agent position at a C or D level and to pilot it using Wetlands Protection Act funds. Holly Lankowski was tasked with researching vacation policy changes and Tim Drumgool will be consulted on bereavement policy changes.

• Approved May 20, 2025 minutes (3-0-0)
• Approved wiring inspector job description (3-0-0)
• Decided to grade Conservation Agent position at C or D level and pilot with Wetlands Protection Act funds
• Assigned Holly Lankowski to research and propose vacation policy changes
• Assigned Tim Drumgool to be consulted on bereavement policy changes
• Adjourned meeting (3-0-0)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Deerfield Selectboard and South County EMS Board of Oversight are holding a joint meeting. The body will review the fiscal year 25 report and discuss emergency medical services operations.

• End of fiscal year 25 report
• Mutual aid provided to Hatfield, Conway, and Greenfield
• New ambulance delivery
• Vehicle replacement planning
• Station update

The board approved a policy governing personal response while off‑duty, with the approval recorded for August 6, 2025. The board then voted to adjourn the meeting at 7:57 p.m., with all three members voting aye.

• Approved off‑duty personal response policy (effective Aug 6 2025)
• Motion to adjourn passed (3‑0‑0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss administrative items and review abatement and exemption requests. The session includes a request for comments on two specific property lots.

• Request for comments on Map 94 Lot 16
• Request for comments on Map 110 Lot 5.1
• Review of Motor Vehicle Abatements
• Review of Abatement/Exemption Requests

The Board accepted the minutes from the July 1, 2025 meeting with a 2‑0 vote. It approved the pending payables and the 2025 Motor Vehicle Excise Commitment #4. A name change for Map 183 Lot 54 was approved based on a court document. Motor vehicle excise abatements were processed as listed.

• Accepted minutes of 07/01/2025 meeting (2-0)
• Approved payables (signed)
• Approved 2025 Motor Vehicle Excise Commitment #4 (signed)
• Approved name change for Map 183 Lot 54 (court document)
• Processed motor vehicle excise abatements (list approved)

South County Emergency Medical Services Board of Oversight

The South County EMS Board of Oversight and the Deerfield Selectboard are holding a joint meeting. The agenda includes reviews of fiscal year 25 reports and mutual aid provided to Hatfield, Conway, and Greenfield. The boards will also discuss ambulance delivery and vehicle replacement planning.

• End of fiscal year 25 report
• Mutual aid given to Hatfield, Conway, and Greenfield
• New ambulance delivery
• Vehicle replacement planning
• Station update

The board approved the minutes from the previous meeting. Discussion of the off‑duty response policy was continued to a future meeting. Chief Sparks was tasked with soliciting quotes for an additional ambulance.

• Approved previous meeting minutes
• Postponed off‑duty response policy discussion
• Chief Sparks to solicit ambulance purchase quotes

Tilton Library Building Committee

The Tilton Library Building Committee will meet to discuss updates regarding the elevator and project costs. The committee will also review minutes from the July 1, 2025 meeting.

• Elevator update
• Cost update

The Tilton Library Building Committee discussed the elevator replacement, including a possible $175,000 budget and temporary delivery solutions. Members considered ramps, dumbwaiters, and pulley systems but no final decision was recorded. The committee approved the shop drawings for the library canopy, allowing manufacturing to begin.

• Approved shop drawings for library canopy (no vote tally recorded)

Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee

The Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee will meet to discuss the renewal of the Comcast cable franchise. This meeting involves representatives from the towns of Deerfield, Sunderland, and Whately.

• Discussion of Comcast Cable Franchise Renewal

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Selectboard, Board of Health, and Sewer Commissioners will meet to discuss municipal contracts and personnel policies. Key items include a large construction award and proposed tax exemptions for veterans.

• Notice of Award of 1888 Building Project contract to WJ Mountford, Inc. for $5,933,000
• Discussion to adopt new HERO Act exemptions for Veterans
• Painting quotes for 8 Conway St. Exterior and 1821 Meetinghouse Steeple Exterior
• GZA Change Order #1 for Bloody Brook MVP Action Grant and Sugarloaf Brook MVP Seed Grant
• Personnel Board Manual amendments regarding attendance policy and vacation negotiations

The Deerfield Selectboard approved several contracts and policy changes. It accepted a $5,933,000 bid from WJ Mountford, Inc. for the 1888 Building Town Hall addition and approved a $7,200 painting contract for the Congregational Church front. The board also adopted personnel manual amendments, approved a grant change order, made multiple appointments, and authorized negotiations for a Town Accountant contract.

• Approved $7,200 contract to paint front of Congregational Church (3-0-0)
• Approved award of $5,933,000 contract to WJ Mountford, Inc. for 1888 Building Town Hall addition (3-0-0)
• Approved change order extending GZA Environmental MVP grants to June 30, 2026 (3-0-0)
• Approved Deerfield Personnel Manual amendments (vacation and attendance policies) effective July 1, 2025 (3-0-0)
• Appointed Gretchen Bysiewski to Tri‑Town Beach Commission (3-0-0)
• Appointed Mary Raymond as School Committee Representative to Capital Improvement Planning Committee (3-0-0)
• Appointed Blake Gilmore (Fiscal Agent), Tim Hilchey (SCEMS Board Rep), and Matt Russo (SCEMS Board) (3-0-0)
• Authorized Town Administrator to negotiate contract for Town Accountant position (3-0-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct a public hearing regarding a site plan for a ground mount solar array. The board will also receive a presentation and update on Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) bylaws.

• Public hearing for Arciesse, LLC site plan at 160 Conway Road for a 424,700W solar array
• ANR: Map 98 Lot 4.1
• ADU Bylaw Presentation by Megan Rhodes, FRCOG
• Model ADU Bylaw/ADU Bylaw Committee update

The Board accepted the June 2 minutes (5‑0‑2). It unanimously endorsed the ANR plan for Map 98 Lot 4.1 (7‑0‑0). The hearing on the 160 Conway Road solar project was continued to August 11 to await conservation findings (7‑0‑0). The meeting was adjourned unanimously (7‑0‑0).

• Accepted minutes of 06/2/2025 (5-0-2)
• Endorsed ANR plan for Map 98 Lot 4.1 (7-0-0)
• Continued solar project hearing to Aug 11, 2025 (7-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (7-0-0)

South County Senior Center Board of Oversight

The Board of Oversight will discuss the future of the South County Senior Center, including potential space at 112 Amherst Rd. in Sunderland. The meeting includes a presentation on the Tax Work Off Program and a review of FY25 usage data.

• Discussion of space at 112 Amherst Rd., Sunderland
• Update of Current Inter-Municipal Agreement
• Mass in Motion Workgroup presentation of Tax Work Off Program
• Review of FY25 usage data
• Consortium/District discussion

The board heard presentations on a tax work‑off program and a potential senior‑center site at 112 Amherst Rd., and reviewed FY25 usage data and budget estimates. No vote was taken on the inter‑municipal agreement or the site proposal. The meeting was adjourned after a motion to adjourn was seconded.

• Adjourned meeting (motion adopted, seconded by Murphy)

Library Board of Trustees

The Tilton Library Trustee Meeting will be held via Zoom. The board will review and vote on the minutes from the June 4, 2025 meeting and receive a Director's Report.

• Vote on June 4, 2025 meeting minutes
• Director's Report

The Library Board of Trustees approved the minutes from the June 4, 2025 meeting by a unanimous vote. No other actions were decided; the board discussed elevator issues, a missed solar grant, and staffing changes but took no formal votes on those items.

• Approved June 4, 2025 minutes (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review administrative items and property records. The session includes a review of June deeds, plans, and building permits. The meeting will conclude with an executive session to address abatement and exemption requests.

• Review of June Deeds, Plans, & Building Permits
• Effect of Electrical Easement on Map 24 Lot 15.1
• Motor Vehicle Abatements
• Encumbrance for Quinquennial Account
• Executive session regarding MGL Chapter 59 section 60 requirements

The Board accepted the minutes from the June 17, 2025 meeting, with a 2‑0 vote. They approved an encumbrance of $6,387.47 for the quinquennial account, with a unanimous 3‑0 vote. The clerk was directed to send a letter to determine the unbuildable status of an electrical easement on Map 24 Lot 15.1. Motor vehicle excise abatements were processed according to the attached list.

• Accepted June 17, 2025 minutes (2-0 vote)
• Approved $6,387.47 encumbrance for quinquennial account (3-0 vote)
• Clerk to send letter requesting determination of unbuildable status for Map 24 Lot 15.1
• Processed motor vehicle excise abatements per attached list

Tilton Library Building Committee

The committee will meet to discuss the current status of library construction and project costs. The agenda also includes updates on technology equipment and the project canopy.

• Construction update
• Cost update
• Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment (technology)
• Canopy update

The committee approved the minutes from the June 2 and June 9 meetings. Members discussed several elevator installation options but did not make a final decision, planning to reconvene in two weeks. The committee also noted a dispute over newly planted trees and a fence, assigning Phil to follow up with the landscape architect and the property owner. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted June 2 minutes (motion passed, seconded)
• Accepted June 9 minutes (motion passed, seconded)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed, seconded)

Conservation Commission

The Deerfield Conservation Commission will hold continued public hearings on two Notices of Intent for construction projects. The body will also discuss an enforcement order for a property on Upper Road and a memorandum regarding Sugarloaf Brook.

• Public hearing for 81 Stillwater Road: single family house, garage, barn, solar array, well, and septic system
• Public hearing for 4 Industrial Drive East: 9-foot wide gravel service drive and restoration planting on 14,300 SF area
• Discussion of enforcement order and restoration plan for 222 Upper Road (Map 38 Parcel 20.1)
• Review of GZA Sugarloaf Brook Regulatory Considerations Memorandum
• Discussion of log dumping at 278 Lower Road

The Deerfield Conservation Commission approved the Notice of Intent for 81 Stillwater Road with conditions, passing the motion 3-0-0. It also approved the NOI for 4 Industrial Drive East, also by a 3-0-0 vote. Henry Komosa agreed to submit a mowing plan for Upper Road and to keep erosion controls in place until the Commission conducts a site visit. The commission discussed a debris‑removal program for Sugarloaf Brook but took no formal action.

• Approved NOI for 81 Stillwater Road (vote 3-0-0)
• Approved NOI for 4 Industrial Drive East (vote 3-0-0)
• Komosa to submit mowing plan for Upper Road (no vote recorded)
• Komosa to keep erosion controls in place until site visit (no vote recorded)
• Discussed removal of 18 flow obstructions in Sugarloaf Brook (no decision)
• Public comment raised water‑table concerns (no action taken)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Selectboard and Board of Health will hold a hearing regarding a petition by Verizon and Eversource to install utility infrastructure. The board will also consider a drainage project change order and a contract for town accounting services.

• Hearing on petition by Verizon New England and Eversource Energy to erect poles, wires, and fixtures on Lower Road
• Change order from GZA for $5,850 regarding Eastern Ave/Graves drainage swale
• Town Accountant contract with Brenda Hill for FY26 services
• Adoption of Personnel Board Manual Amendments including Conflict of Interest and ADA non-discrimination policies
• FY25-2 Sewer Commitment

The Selectboard approved several contracts and utility items, each with a unanimous 3-0-0 vote. They closed the Verizon/Eversource pole line hearing and approved the pole positions as presented. The board also adopted the ADA statement and Conflict‑of‑Interest policy, and approved the meeting minutes.

• Closed the Verizon/Eversource pole line hearing (3-0-0)
• Approved pole positions as presented (3-0-0)
• Approved the meeting minutes (3-0-0)
• Approved FY25-2 Sewer Commitment Utility Billing (3-0-0)
• Approved Sewer Utility Abatement for Athletic Fields $3,887.92 (3-0-0)
• Approved Change Order for Eastern Ave/Graves drainage swale $5,850 (3-0-0)
• Approved contract with Brenda Hill as Temporary Town Accountant (3-0-0)
• Approved ADA Statement and Conflict of Interest Policy (3-0-0)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Deerfield Selectboard will hold a public hearing regarding a petition from Verizon New England and NStar Electric (Eversource Energy). The body will consider the request to install a line of poles, wires, and fixtures on Lower Road.

• Petition by Verizon New England & NStar Electric (Eversource Energy) to erect poles, wires, and fixtures on Lower Road

The board closed the hearing on Eversource's pole request and approved the proposed pole positions on Lower Road. It also approved several financial and personnel actions, including a sewer utility abatement, a change order for a drainage contract, a temporary town accountant contract, and new ADA and conflict‑of‑interest policies. Appointments and resignations for town boards and commissions were accepted.

• Approved pole positions for Eversource on Lower Road (3-0-0)
• Approved sewer utility abatement for athletic fields, $3,887.92 (3-0-0)
• Approved $5,850 change order for GZA drainage contract (3-0-0)
• Approved contract with Brenda Hill as temporary town accountant (3-0-0)
• Approved ADA statement and conflict‑of‑interest policy (3-0-0)
• Accepted resignation of Diane Kolakoski from Tri‑Town Beach Commission (3-0-0)
• Appointed Deb Austin as part‑time police administrative assistant at $31.93/hr (3-0-0)
• Accepted appointments for town boards, including Blake Gilmore to Senior Housing Committee (3-0-0)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Selectboard and Board of Health will hold a pole hearing for Lower Rd and review several administrative updates. The body will decide on a drainage swale change order, a town accountant contract, and a general construction contract for the 1888 Building.

• Pole hearing for Lower Rd
• Eastern Ave/Graves drainage swale change order from GZA for $5,850
• Town Accountant contract with Brenda Hill for FY26
• 1888 Building General Construction Contract Award
• Personnel Board Manual Amendments regarding Conflict of Interest, vacation, ADA, and attendance

The Deerfield Selectboard approved pole positions for Verizon/Eversource on Lower Road, the FY25-2 sewer utility billing, a $3,887.92 sewer abatement for athletic fields, a $5,850 change order for the Eastern Ave/Graves drainage swale, and a contract with Brenda Hill as temporary town accountant. The board also adopted the ADA statement and conflict‑of‑interest policy, accepted a resignation from the Tri‑Town Beach Commission, and appointed Deb Austin as part‑time administrative assistant for the police department. All votes were 3‑aye, 0‑no, 0‑abstain.

• Approved pole positions for Verizon/Eversource on Lower Road (3-0-0)
• Approved FY25-2 sewer commitment utility billing (3-0-0)
• Approved $3,887.92 sewer utility abatement for athletic fields (3-0-0)
• Approved $5,850 change order for Eastern Ave/Graves drainage swale (3-0-0)
• Approved contract with Brenda Hill as temporary town accountant (3-0-0)
• Approved ADA statement and conflict‑of‑interest policy (3-0-0)
• Accepted resignation of Diane Kolakoski from Tri‑Town Beach Commission (3-0-0)
• Appointed Deb Austin as part‑time police administrative assistant at $31.93/hr (3-0-0)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Selectboard and Board of Health will hear from the South County Senior Center Board of Oversight regarding proposed updates to an intermunicipal agreement. The meeting also includes an executive session to discuss collective bargaining and a Land Court case.

• Proposed updates to the South County Senior Center (SCSC) Intermunicipal Agreement
• Collective bargaining strategy for Police Officers Unit and Highway Department
• Strategy session for Land Court Case Number 21 MISC 000597 (Billings v. Town of Deerfield)

Tri-Town Beach Commission

The Tri-Town Beach Commission will discuss ongoing maintenance projects and operational updates for the 2025 season. The meeting includes reviews of facility infrastructure and staffing.

• Update on beaver issue
• Update on northern border fence
• Tree issues update
• Water quality and weed relief
• Dock repairs and expansion

The Tri‑Town Beach Commission approved three actions: purchase of security cameras ($200), issuance of a No Trespass order and revocation of a pass for an after‑hours violator, and waiving passes for the Bean family. All three motions passed unanimously (3‑0). The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved security camera purchase ($200) (3‑0)
• Approved No Trespass order and pass revocation for after‑hours violator (3‑0)
• Approved waiver of passes for the Bean family (3‑0)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (3‑0)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Selectboard, Board of Health, and Sewer Commissioners will meet to discuss and decide on the Special Town Meeting Warrant. Public comment is suspended for this meeting to prioritize Town Meeting business.

• Special Town Meeting Warrant

Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP)

The Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness Core Group will discuss grant updates and field study results. The group intends to vote on approving revisions to the Deerfield MVP Plan for submission to the EOEEA.

• Update on landowner outreach for Deerfield River Floodplain Protection
• Plans for Senior Property Owner Resiliency Workshop
• Preliminary results from GZA/Field Study on Bloody Brook and Blackstone Brook
• Status of Selectboard requests to DPU regarding gas line and railroad culvert upgrades
• Vote to approve and submit revised Deerfield MVP Plan to EOEEA

The Deerfield MVP Committee approved its presented priority list for the Core Committee, adding needed amendments. A small working group was created to plan a September 28 environmental workshop at the library. The town agreed to update the MVP section of the website and set future meeting dates.

• Approved MVP Core Committee priorities with amendments
• Formed a working group (MA, Laurie, Carolyn, Chris, Pete) to plan September 28 workshop
• Tasked Greg and Chris to draft MVP website content for review
• Assigned Chris to restore and add previous MVP links to the town website
• Scheduled full committee meeting for July 16 at 4 PM
• Scheduled subcommittee meeting for July 27 at 4 PM
• Directed Tim to raise Bloody Brook culvert issue with MassDOT
• Directed Chris to follow up with legislative delegation on railroad culvert near Conway Street

Energy Conservation Committee

The committee will meet remotely to discuss the Climate Leadership Program and Green Communities initiatives. The agenda includes discussions on peak energy use outreach and municipal projects such as bike lanes and geothermal energy.

• Climate Leadership Program mailing and next steps
• Green Communities Frontier incentive forms
• Community outreach for voluntary energy use cuts during peak periods
• Municipal bike lanes in town and to neighboring communities
• Geothermal energy discussion

The Energy Conservation Committee voted unanimously to have the HEET grant geothermal feasibility study posted on its website. No other motions were adopted. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Post HEET grant geothermal feasibility study on Energy Committee website (unanimously approved)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimously approved)

Personnel Board

The Personnel Board will discuss job descriptions and pay information for inspectors and coordinators. The board is also reviewing bereavement and vacation policies and the reinstitution of employee performance evaluations.

• Wiring Inspector job description and Gas/Plumbing Inspector pay information
• Grading of Conservation Agent and Land Use Coordinator positions
• Bereavement Policy and Vacation Leave policies
• Reinstituting employee performance evaluations
• Town Administrator updates on job search status

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to conduct administrative business and review requests for abatements and exemptions. The agenda includes the review of motor vehicle abatements.

• Review of abatement and exemption requests
• Motor vehicle abatements
• Approval of June 3, 2025 meeting minutes

The Board accepted the June 3, 2025 meeting minutes (2‑0). It approved a fee increase for the abutters list from $15 to $25, with the motion passing 2‑0 and taking effect July 1, 2025. Payables were approved and signed.

• Accepted June 3, 2025 minutes (2-0)
• Raised abutters‑list fee to $25 (2-0), effective July 1, 2025
• Approved and signed payables

Historical Commission

The Deerfield Historical Commission will meet to review budget reports and Form B information. The body will discuss the storage and presentation of artifacts from Eaglebrook School and the status of several local cemeteries.

• Storage and presentation of artifacts from Eaglebrook School
• Old Albany Road burial ground
• Pine Nook cemetery near Keith Cross junction with River Road
• Mill River cemetery gravestone repairs
• Cemetery near Upper Road railroad crossing

The Deerfield Historical Commission unanimously approved Henrietta to work with Pat Martin to order a new cabinet costing up to $1,174. The commission also unanimously appointed Analee Wulfkuhle as its representative to the Connecting Community Initiative. Several items, including Form B information and Eaglebrook School artifact plans, were deferred to the next meeting.

• Approved cabinet purchase up to $1,174 (unanimous)
• Appointed Analee Wulfkuhle as CCI representative (unanimous)
• Deferred Form B information discussion to next meeting
• Deferred Eaglebrook School artifacts storage and presentation to next meeting

1888 Building Advisory Committee

The 1888 Building Advisory Committee will discuss project updates, including general contractor bids received on June 6. The committee will also discuss the Town of Deerfield Special Town Meeting scheduled for June 23.

• General Contractor bids from June 6 (P3 OPM)
• Special Town Meeting on June 23
• Review of May 9, 2025 meeting minutes

The committee approved the minutes from the May 9, 2025 meeting. They recommended proceeding with WJ Mountford Co. as the general contractor for the 1888 Building renovation, pending formal approval and federal funding. The town scheduled a special town meeting for June 23 to seek a two‑thirds resident vote on a $4 million USDA grant. The project team was tasked with finalizing the USDA grant agreement package, including contract language for the contractor.

• Approved minutes from 05/09/2025 meeting
• Recommended moving forward with WJ Mountford Co. as general contractor (pending formal approval)
• Scheduled special town meeting on June 23 to record federal interest in $4 million USDA grant (requires two‑thirds resident vote)
• Assigned project team to finalize USDA grant agreement package with contractor language

Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee

The Cable Franchise Negotiating Committee will meet to discuss the renewal of the Comcast cable franchise. This meeting involves representatives from the towns of Deerfield, Sunderland, and Whately.

• Discussion of Comcast Cable Franchise Renewal

DEDIC

The Deerfield Economic Development & Industrial Corporation will meet to discuss and potentially vote to approve the DEDIC Economic Development Plan. The body will also conduct its annual election.

• Vote to approve DEDIC Economic Development Plan
• Annual Election

The board voted to approve the Deerfield Economic Development Plan with full approval, one member absent. A motion to reinstate the full present board of officers was also approved with the same vote. Draft minutes from prior meetings were accepted unanimously, and the meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved Deerfield Economic Development Plan (full approval, one absent)
• Reinstated full present board of officers (full approval, one absent)
• Approved draft 2/13/2024 DEDIC minutes (unanimous)
• Approved draft 4/10/2025 DEDIC minutes (unanimous)
• Approved draft 5/12/2025 DEDIC minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Connecting Community Initiative

The Connecting Community Initiative Committee met to approve previous minutes and receive committee update reports. The meeting was conducted remotely.

• Approval of May 8, 2025 minutes

The committee approved the May 8, 2025 meeting minutes, with one member abstaining. The Planning Board passed the Dog Shelter project on Plain Rd, adding a list of conditions and moving it to the ZBA for a sound study. The committee decided to keep investigating the regionalization study. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved May 8, 2025 minutes (1 abstention)
• Planning Board approved Dog Shelter on Plain Rd with conditions (now at ZBA for sound study)
• Committee decided to continue investigating regionalization study

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Selectboard and Board of Health will discuss contracts for industrial park studies and grant applications for sewer and stormwater management. The body will also review police contracts and make several town board appointments.

• Contract with DPC for $75,450 for Deerfield-Whately Industrial Parks Wastewater/Road Connection Study
• Contract with VHB for $23,500 for a traffic study related to the industrial parks
• Two DPA Engineering proposals for $3,750 each for MassDEP SRF Program grant applications
• Police CBA and Police Chief Contract
• Proposed June 25, 2025 hearing date for pole locations on Lower Rd

The board approved a three‑year contract for Police Chief John Paciorek Jr. It also entered into several contracts funded by a $100,000 state grant for wastewater, road and traffic studies, and allocated $4,500 of ARPA funds for storm‑damage repairs. All motions passed unanimously (3‑0‑0). Additional appointments for police, EMS and other commissions were also approved.

• Approved $75,450 DPC Engineering contract for Deerfield‑Whately wastewater/road connection study (3-0-0)
• Approved $23,500 VHB contract for traffic study linked to the same wastewater/road project (3-0-0)
• Approved $3,750 DPC contract to prepare MassDEP SRF grant application for Stormwater Collection System (Phase 2) (3-0-0)
• Approved $3,750 DPC contract to prepare MassDEP SRF grant application for Sanitary Sewer Collection System (Phase 2) (3-0-0)
• Approved three‑year contract for Police Chief John Paciorek Jr., July 1 2025 – June 30 2028 (3-0-0)
• Allocated $4,500 ARPA funds to address storm damage to the DPW Dump Body project (3-0-0)
• Approved appointments for Police Department, South County EMS, Alternate Electrical Inspector, DEDIC members and Conservation Commission (3-0-0)

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will meet to discuss procurement and oversight processes with the Assistant Town Administrator and Town Planner. The body will also review the CPC Plan and updates regarding the 1888 building.

• Procurement and oversight process discussion with Greg Snedecker and Alix Galloway
• CPC Plan review with Andrea Donlon
• Discussion of approval letters to grantees
• 1888 building update and banner
• Meeting with Brenda Hill regarding funds spent or returned from a 4/30/35 meeting

The committee approved the May 14, 2025 Community Preservation Committee minutes with one abstention and five votes in favor. They unanimously voted to have Committee member Kathy Sylvester remind Superintendent Darius to post the playground’s availability hours. The committee decided that any unspent money will be transferred to the town’s undesignated funds.

• Approved May 14, 2025 CPC minutes (1 abstention, 5 approved)
• Unanimously ordered Kathy Sylvester to remind Superintendent Darius to post playground hours
• Decided unspent money goes to undesignated funds
• Assigned Alex Galloway to prepare approval letters to grantees
• Noted 1888 building bids received; OPM conducting due diligence

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Selectboard and Board of Health are meeting to discuss the warrant for a Special Town Meeting scheduled for June 23. The discussion focuses on three specific items to be presented to town voters.

• 1888 Building Project
• Town Common CPC Funds Extension
• Emergency Management Director Stipend

The Selectboard approved a warrant to hold a Special Town Meeting on June 23 to consider the 1888 Building project, Town Common CPC Funds extension, and Emergency Management Director stipend. The motion passed unanimously with a 3-0-0 vote. The board then adjourned the meeting at 4:14 pm.

• Approved warrant for Special Town Meeting (3-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0-0)

Tilton Library Building Committee

The committee will meet to discuss the current status of library construction and project costs. The agenda includes updates on technology-related furniture, fixtures, and equipment, as well as a canopy update.

• Construction update
• Cost update
• Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment (technology)
• Canopy update

The committee voted to build and pay for the steel frame of the library canopy, estimated at $80K, using contingency funds. The roof and finishing work, also estimated at $80K, were not approved and may be bid separately later. The committee discussed but did not decide on asking the town for additional funds.

• Approved building and paying for canopy steel frame, approx. $80K (majority vote; Candace and Julie abstained)
• Deferred roof and finishing work for canopy; possible separate bid
• Discussed but did not vote on requesting town capital funds for canopy

South County Senior Center Board of Oversight

The South County Senior Center Board of Oversight will review director updates and usage data. The board will also discuss the current inter-municipal agreement and the possibility of a consortium or district.

• Update of current Inter-Municipal Agreement
• Consortium/District discussion
• Senior Center Director updates
• Review of usage data

The board approved the minutes from the April 3, 2025 meeting unanimously. It also unanimously approved the revised inter‑municipal agreement among Deerfield, Sunderland, and Whately. A property at 112 Amherst Road in Sunderland was discussed as a possible permanent senior‑center location, but no decision was made. The meeting was adjourned at 7:35 p.m.

• Approved April 3, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved revised inter‑municipal agreement among Deerfield, Sunderland, Whately (unanimous)
• Meeting adjourned at 7:35 p.m.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold continued public hearings regarding special permits for two properties. The board is reviewing requests for a dog shelter and a private pickleball club.

• Special Permit for an 8,000 sq. ft. dog shelter at 0 Greenfield Road (Map 132 Lot 3)
• Special Permit exception for Environmental Regulations at 0 Greenfield Road (Map 132 Lot 3)
• Special Permit for a private club with 3 pickleball courts in 6,000 sq ft of warehouse space at 6 Railroad Yard Road (Map 7 Lot 3)

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved the minutes from the April 17 and May 15 meetings (5‑0‑0). It voted to continue the special‑permit hearing for 6 Railroad Yard Road to July 17, 2025 (5‑0‑0). It also voted to continue the combined hearing for the 0 Greenfield Road dog‑shelter permit to July 17, 2025 (5‑0‑0). The meeting was adjourned (5‑0‑0).

• Approved minutes of 4/17/25 and 5/15/25 (5-0-0)
• Continued 6 Railroad Yard Road special‑permit hearing to July 17, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Continued 0 Greenfield Road dog‑shelter special‑permit hearing to July 17, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0-0)

Library Board of Trustees

The Library Board of Trustees will meet to review and vote on the minutes from the May 7, 2025 meeting. The session includes a Director's report and general updates.

• Vote on May 7, 2025 meeting minutes

The Trustees approved the minutes from the May 7, 2025 meeting after a motion and second. The meeting was then adjourned at 7:08 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled for July 2, 2025 via Zoom.

• Approved May 7, 2025 minutes (motion carried)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Selectboard, Board of Health, and Sewer Commissioners will meet to conduct a strategy session and contract negotiations. The session involves nonunion personnel and will not reconvene in open session.

• Contract negotiations with Police Chief John Paciorek, Jr.

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to handle administrative tasks and review abatement and exemption requests. The meeting includes a scheduled executive session to comply with state law regarding MGL Chapter 59 section 60.

• FY 2022 Uncollectible Personal Property Tax
• 2022 Uncollectible Motor Vehicle Excise
• Property tax bills less than $100
• Motor Vehicle Abatements
• May Deeds, Plans & Building Permits

The board accepted the minutes from the May 20, 2025 meeting. It approved payables, the FY 2022 uncollectible personal‑property tax, and the 2022 uncollectible motor‑vehicle excise. A motion to place property‑tax bills under $100 on the third‑quarter bill was adopted unanimously (3‑0). No other substantive actions were taken.

• Accepted minutes of 05/20/2025 (3‑0)
• Approved payables (no vote recorded)
• Approved FY 2022 uncollectible personal‑property tax (no vote recorded)
• Approved 2022 uncollectible motor‑vehicle excise (no vote recorded)
• Moved property‑tax bills under $100 to third‑quarter bill (3‑0)
• Processed motor‑vehicle excise abatements (no vote recorded)

Tilton Library Building Committee

The committee will meet to discuss the current status of library construction and project costs. The agenda includes reviews of technology for furniture, fixtures, and equipment, as well as an update on the canopy.

• Construction update
• Cost update
• Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment (technology)
• Canopy update

The committee received updates on the elevator installation timeline, the canopy project budgeting, and the current $199,000 contingency fund. Members discussed the need for additional documentation for the elevator installer and potential temporary occupancy. A request from an abutter about a privacy fence was noted, and the next meeting was scheduled for June 9. No approvals, denials, or votes were recorded.

Planning Board

The Planning Board will meet to discuss administrative updates and committee reports. Key discussion items include an update from the ADU Bylaw Committee and a review of board application forms.

• Model ADU Bylaw/ADU Bylaw Committee update
• Review of Planning Board application forms
• Committee Appointments

The Board approved the corrected minutes from the May 12, 2025 meeting. Members unanimously elected Denise Mason as Chair, Emily Gaylord as Vice‑Chair, and Satu Zoller as Clerk. The meeting was then formally adjourned.

• Approved corrected May 12 minutes (5-0-0)
• Elected Denise Mason Chair (5-0-0)
• Elected Emily Gaylord Vice‑Chair (5-0-0)
• Elected Satu Zoller Clerk (5-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0-0)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Deerfield Selectboard will hold a hybrid meeting on May 28, 2025, at 4:00 PM in the Municipal Offices at 8 Conway Street. The agenda includes only procedural items: a call to order and an executive session to discuss contract negotiations with nonunion personnel and strategy for an ongoing land court case.

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Deerfield Selectboard and Board of Health will meet in hybrid session to hear updates, discuss contracts, and act on several appointments. Key decisions include approving a $4,000 Green Communities assistance agreement, authorizing the Town Administrator to sign USDA Rural Development building documents, and finalizing municipal aggregation pricing. The board will also consider multiple appointments to commissions and departments.

• Approve $4,000 MOU with FRCOG for Green Communities Assistance
• Authorize Town Administrator to sign 1888 Building contracting documents with USDA Rural Development
• Authorize Town Administrator to sign Franklin County Municipal Aggregation final pricing and product offerings
• Appoint Kyle Dragon as Animal Control Officer
• Appoint Amy Helstowski to Conservation, Historical, and Energy Conservation Commissions

The Selectboard approved a Memorandum of Understanding with the Franklin Regional Council of Governments for $4,000 in Green Communities assistance. It authorized the Town Administrator to sign the USDA Rural Development grant agreement providing $4 million for the 1888 Building Project. The board also approved the Town Administrator’s authority to accept final pricing for the Franklin County municipal energy aggregation. In addition, the board made several personnel appointments, accepted resignations, and submitted letters of support for regional grant applications.

• Approved MOU with FRCOG for $4,000 Green Communities assistance (3-0-0)
• Authorized Town Administrator to sign USDA grant agreement for $4 million 1888 Building Project (3-0-0)
• Authorized Town Administrator to accept final pricing for Franklin County municipal energy aggregation (3-0-0)
• Appointed Kyle Dragon as Animal Control Officer (term to 6/30/2026) (3-0-0)
• Appointed Austen Iglehart as Wiring Inspector (term to 6/30/2026) (3-0-0)
• Appointed Kevin Kochapski as Alternate Wiring Inspector (term to 6/30/2026) (3-0-0)
• Accepted resignation of Recreation Director Sue Antonellis effective 8/31/2025 (3-0-0)
• Submitted letters of support for Bardwells Ferry bridge, Park Street tactical urbanism, and Elm St STRAP grant applications (3-0-0)

Conservation Commission

The Deerfield Conservation Commission meets remotely to decide on wetlands permits for three projects and to ratify an enforcement order. The body also discusses general business, including potential hybrid meeting changes and submission deadlines.

• Ratify enforcement order for 222 Upper Road (Map 38 Parcel 20.1)
• Public hearing for 33 Captain Lathrop Drive wetlands determination (Map 151 Lot 55)
• Public hearing for 81 Stillwater Road wetlands permit (Map 110 Lot 5.1)
• Public hearing for Deerfield Academy infrastructure work (Little Meadow Road, Map 61 Lot 13)
• Continued hearing for 4 Industrial Drive East wetlands permit (Map 183 Lots 8 & 9)

The commission ratified an enforcement order and approved a restoration plan for 222 Upper Road, approved a Form 2 Negative 3 determination for a driveway permit at 33 Captain Lathrop Drive, accepted the Deerfield Academy generator relocation NOI, and postponed hearings on the Stillwater and Industrial Drive projects to the June 26 meeting.

• Ratified Enforcement Order for 222‑224 Upper Road (3‑0‑0)
• Approved restoration plan for 222 Upper Road (3‑0‑0)
• Form 2 Negative 3 Determination for 33 Captain Lathrop Drive (3‑0‑0)
• Continued hearing on 81 Stillwater NOI to June 26, 2025 (3‑0‑0)
• Accepted Deerfield Academy generator relocation NOI (3‑0‑0)
• Continued hearing on 4 Industrial Drive East to June 26, 2025 (3‑0‑0)

Tri-Town Beach Commission

The Tri-Town Beach Commission will meet to review updates on ongoing projects and the 2025 season. Discussions include staffing, programming, and specific maintenance issues at the beach.

• Update on beaver issue
• Update on northern border fence from Marc B.
• Dock repairs and expansion
• 2025 season programs and staffing

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss administrative items and review abatement and exemption requests. The meeting includes a scheduled executive session to comply with state law regarding MGL Chapter 59 section 60.

• 2025 Motor Vehicle Excise Commitment #3
• Motor Vehicle Abatements
• Review of liens and fees on tax bills
• Reorganization and committee appointments

The Board accepted the minutes from the April 15 and May 6 meetings. It appointed members to the Chair position and two committees. A motion to place liens and fees on the third‑quarter tax bill without dividing them was approved. The 2025 Motor Vehicle Excise Commitment #3 was signed and motor vehicle excise abatements were processed.

• Accepted minutes of 04/15/2025 (motion carried 2‑0)
• Accepted minutes of 05/06/2025 (motion carried 2‑0)
• Nominated F. Sobieski for Chair (motion carried 3‑0)
• Appointed C. Shattuck to Capital Improvements Planning Committee (motion carried 3‑0)
• Appointed F. Leone to Community Preservation Committee (motion carried 3‑0)
• Approved 2025 Motor Vehicle Excise Commitment #3 (approved & signed)
• Motion to put liens/fees on third‑quarter tax bill and not divide them (motion carried 3‑0)
• Processed Motor Vehicle Excise Abatements per attached list

Personnel Board

The Personnel Board will meet to discuss and decide on employee leave policies and position grading. The board will also review job descriptions and the reinstatement of performance evaluations.

• Grading of Conservation Agent and Land Use Coordinator positions
• Bereavement Policy
• Vacation Leave
• Reinstituting employee performance evaluations
• Wiring Inspector job description

The Personnel Board approved the minutes from the March 25, 2025 meeting. It also approved the revised job description for the Land Use Coordinator at Grade D Step 5, effective July 1, 2025. Other items such as the bereavement policy, vacation leave, a part‑time conservation agent position, and employee performance evaluations were discussed but no decisions were made. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved March 25, 2025 minutes (5-0-0)
• Approved revised Land Use Coordinator job description at Grade D Step 5, effective July 1, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Bereavement policy changes discussed, decision deferred
• Vacation leave discussion, no decision
• Part‑time conservation agent position discussed, no decision
• Employee performance evaluations discussion, no decision
• Town Accountant hiring update discussed, no decision
• Adjourned meeting (5-0-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Deerfield Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on three special permit applications at its May 15 meeting. Items include a continued hearing for an 8,000 sq ft dog shelter at 0 Greenfield Road, a new hearing for an environmental regulations exception for the same shelter, and a new hearing for a private club with three pickleball courts at 6 Railroad Yard Road. The board will also approve minutes from March 20.

• Continued public hearing for Friends of the Franklin County Dog Shelter special permit for 8,000 sq ft shelter at 0 Greenfield Road (Map 132 Lot 3)
• New public hearing for environmental regulations exception at same property (0 Greenfield Road)
• New public hearing for Deerfield Railyard LLC special permit to convert 6,000 sq ft warehouse to private club with 3 pickleball courts at 6 Railroad Yard Road (Map 7 Lot 3)
• Approval of minutes from March 20, 2025 meeting
• Upcoming meeting scheduled for May 28, 2025

The Deerfield Zoning Board of Appeals met on May 15, 2025, and voted unanimously to continue three special permit hearings to June 9, 2025, at 6:30 pm. No substantive decisions were made; all items were procedural continuances requested by the applicants.

• Continued special permit hearing for 0 Greenfield Road (dog shelter) to June 9 (3-0)
• Continued special permit hearing for 0 Greenfield Road (environmental exception) to June 9 (3-0)
• Continued special permit hearing for 6 Railroad Yard Road (pickleball club) to June 9 (3-0)

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will meet remotely to discuss the CPC plan with Andrea Donlon and review Peter's draft of approval documents. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from previous meetings. No specific projects or funding amounts are listed on the agenda.

• Discuss CPC plan with Andrea Donlon
• Review Peter's draft of approval documents
• Approve minutes from March 19 and April 30, 2025

The committee approved the March 19, 2025 meeting minutes with one abstention and unanimously approved the April 30, 2025 minutes. They voted to adopt an online (or email) pre‑application form for Community Preservation grant applications. No other actions were formally decided.

• Approved March 19, 2025 meeting minutes (1 abstention, rest approved)
• Approved April 30, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous approval)
• Adopted online pre‑application form for Community Preservation Grant applications (all voted in favor)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Deerfield Selectboard will enter executive session to discuss strategy for contract negotiations with Police Chief John Paciorek Jr., collective bargaining with police and highway unions, and pending litigation. During open session, the board will hold a public hearing with Tree House Brewing Company and consider several decision items, including a landfill monitoring contract for $29,725 and a special one-day liquor license for Deerfield Academy's reunion. The board will also approve minutes, accept a Conservation Commission resignation, and discuss other routine business.

• Executive session for strategy on nonunion personnel contract (Police Chief John Paciorek Jr.), union bargaining, and litigation (Mass. Land Court Case 21 MISC 000597)
• Public hearing with Allison Masley, Tree House Brewing Company
• Landfill monitoring and reporting contract with Atlas for $29,725
• Special one-day liquor license for Deerfield Academy Reunion
• Cross Street Block Party scheduled for June 21

The board entered an executive session to discuss contract negotiations and litigation. It approved the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources' acquisition of an agricultural preservation restriction on a 21‑acre property owned by the Stephen and Kathy Melnik Family Trust, and reduced the required public notice period for that acquisition. The board also designated a special municipal employee, accepted a $29,275 landfill monitoring contract, and authorized a one‑day liquor license for Deerfield Academy’s reunion.

• Entered executive session to discuss strategy (3-0-0)
• Approved MDAR acquisition of agricultural preservation restriction on 21‑acre property (3-0-0)
• Reduced 120‑day notice period for MDAR acquisition (3-0-0)
• Approved 23 sets of Selectboard minutes (3-0-0)
• Designated Meghan Arquin as Special Municipal Employee (3-0-0)
• Accepted landfill monitoring contract with Atlas Technical Consultants LLC for $29,275 (3-0-0)
• Authorized special one‑day liquor license for Deerfield Academy reunion (June 6‑8, 2025) (3-0-0)
• Accepted resignation of Ann‑Mary Cloutier from Conservation Commission (3-0-0)

Energy Conservation Committee

The committee will meet remotely to discuss the Climate Leadership Program and Green Communities initiatives. The agenda includes discussions on municipal bike lanes and geothermal energy.

• Climate Leadership Program mailing and status
• Green Communities Frontier incentive forms
• Municipal bike lanes in town and to neighboring communities
• Geothermal energy discussion
• Coordination with MVP and CCI committees

The Energy Conservation Committee voted unanimously to approve Allison Gage's request to speak to the SelectBoard about Green Communities on May 28. A motion to adjourn the meeting was also passed unanimously. Other items such as Climate Leaders ideas and Green Communities updates were discussed but no further actions were decided.

• Approved Allison Gage's request to address the SelectBoard on Green Communities on May 28 (unanimous)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (unanimous)

Historical Commission

The Deerfield Historical Commission will hold a regular business meeting to discuss digital records storage with the Town Administrator and the Frontier History Department, as well as updates on Form B storage, the return of Eaglebrook School archives, Old Albany Road Cemetery landscaping, and Mill River Cemetery grave repairs and alignment. No formal votes or public hearings are listed on the agenda.

• Digital records storage: conversation with Town Administrator and Frontier History Department about possible student involvement
• Form B storage update
• Eaglebrook School archives return status
• Old Albany Road Cemetery landscaping
• Mill River Cemetery graves’ repair and alignment

The Deerfield Historical Commission approved the minutes from the January 21, 2025 meeting with a unanimous vote. The commission also adjourned the May 12 meeting unanimously. No funds were expended during the session and no new business was taken up.

• Approved Jan 21, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will continue a public hearing regarding a site plan and stormwater permit for a dog shelter. The board will also discuss the 2024 DEDIC Economic Development Plan and receive an update on the ADU Bylaw Committee.

• Public hearing continuation for Friends of the Franklin County Dog Shelter, Inc. to build an 8,000 sq. ft. shelter at 0 Greenfield Road (Map 132 Lot 3)
• Discussion of the 2024 DEDIC Economic Development Plan
• Update from the Model ADU Bylaw/ADU Bylaw Committee

The Board unanimously endorsed the 2024 DEDIC Economic Development Plan. It also approved the Friends of the Franklin County Regional Dog Shelter site plan for 0 Greenfield Road, adding specific construction and operational conditions. The Board authorized Town Counsel to finalize the written decision and accepted the April 7 minutes with a minor correction.

• Endorsed 2024 DEDIC Economic Development Plan (7-0-0)
• Approved 0 Greenfield Road dog shelter project with conditions (7-0-0)
• Authorized Town Counsel to finalize written decision for the dog shelter (7-0-0)
• Accepted April 7, 2025 minutes, correcting "pod" to "pond" (7-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (7-0-0)

DEDIC

The Deerfield Economic Development & Industrial Corporation (DEDIC) and Planning Board will hold a joint meeting, including a public hearing on the proposed 10-year Economic Development Plan. The agenda also includes approval of minutes, a due diligence list, treasurer's report, and public comment.

• Public hearing on 10-year Economic Development Plan
• Approval of meeting minutes and due diligence list
• Treasurer's report
• Public comment period

The Deerfield Planning Board voted to approve the draft 2025 DEDIC Economic Development Plan, with all members voting in favor. The motion to adjourn the meeting was also approved unanimously. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved 2025 DEDIC Economic Development Plan (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

1888 Building Advisory Committee

The 1888 Building Advisory Committee will review minutes from April 11 and discuss project updates, including pre-bid walkthroughs and obligating funds with USDA Rural Development after May 16. Subcontractor bids are due May 20 and general contractor bids due May 30, with construction estimated to start June 15.

• Review of April 11, 2025 meeting minutes
• Discussion of project updates, including pre-bid walkthroughs held April 30 and upcoming week of May 12
• Obligating funds with USDA Rural Development after May 16
• Subcontractor bids due May 20 at 2:00 PM
• General contractor bids due May 30 at 2:00 PM; estimated construction start June 15

The committee approved the minutes from the April 11, 2025 meeting. Members received updates on the SHPO “no adverse impact” statement and pending USDA sign‑off, the pre‑bid walk‑through, and the upcoming bid schedule. The design was revised to move ERV louvers, and the architect will forward the new drawings. No other motions were voted on.

• Approved minutes from 4/11/2025 meeting

Connecting Community Initiative

The agenda consists of procedural boilerplate. The committee will review minutes from April 3, 2025, and provide committee update reports.

• Approval of April 3, 2025 meeting minutes
• Committee updates report

The Connecting Community Initiative Committee unanimously approved the minutes from the April 3, 2025 meeting. The committee also approved the school budget. In addition, the committees voted to adopt a privacy policy regarding students and ICE.

• Approved April 3, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved school budget (vote not specified)
• Approved privacy policy for students concerning ICE (vote not specified)

South County Senior Center Board of Oversight

The South County Senior Center Board of Oversight will meet to discuss updates from the Senior Center Director and the current Inter-Municipal Agreement among Deerfield, Sunderland, and Whately, as well as a potential consortium or district structure. The meeting includes approval of previous minutes and public comment.

• Update of Current Inter-Municipal Agreement involving Deerfield, Sunderland, and Whately
• Consortium/District Discussion regarding the senior center's future structure
• Senior Center Director Updates
• Previous minutes for approval

The board voted unanimously to approve the draft minutes for meetings held on Nov. 13, 20, 26, Dec. 12 2024, and Jan. 16 2025. The board discussed a possible temporary senior‑center location in a former church but deferred any decision to a future meeting. Updates were given on the FY 2026 budget reallocation, an anonymous donor funding a fitness class, approval of a PVTA grant for medical‑transport reimbursement, and the arrival of a new ADA‑compliant van in July.

• Approved previous Board of Oversight minutes (unanimously)
• Noted FY 2026 budget reallocation from Holy Family Church rent to full‑time program coordinator position
• Reported anonymous donor funding YMCA Enhanced Fitness class ($4 per person per class)
• Confirmed approval of PVTA grant for up to 4 hours/week medical‑transport reimbursement
• Announced new 14‑passenger ADA‑compliant SCSC van will be available starting July

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Selectboard/Board of Health/Sewer Commissioners will reorganize by appointing a new chair, vice-chair, and clerk. They will also discuss and decide whether to submit the Stillwater Bridge Home Rule Petition (Article 12 from the April 28 Annual Town Meeting) to the Massachusetts Legislature. Public comment is suspended for this meeting.

• Reorganization: appointment of new Chair, Vice-Chair, and Clerk
• Submission of Stillwater Bridge Home Rule Petition (Article 12) to the Great and General Court
• Public comment suspended for this meeting
• Town Administrator's and Assistant Town Administrator's Report
• Correspondence and upcoming meetings (May 14, 28)

The board elected Trevor McDaniel as Chair, Blake Gilmore as Vice Chair, and Tim Hilchey as Clerk, each by a 2‑aye, 0‑nay vote. The Stillwater Bridge Home Rule Petition (Article 12) was approved for submission to the Great and General Court, also by a 2‑aye, 0‑nay vote. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Trevor McDaniel appointed Chair (2-0-0)
• Blake Gilmore appointed Vice Chair (2-0-0)
• Tim Hilchey appointed Clerk (2-0-0)
• Stillwater Bridge Home Rule Petition submitted to Great and General Court (2-0-0)
• Meeting adjourned (2-0-0)

Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP)

The MVP Core Group will hear updates on landowner outreach for Deerfield River floodplain protection and plans for a senior property owner resiliency workshop. They will also receive presentations on watershed analyses for Bloody Brook and Sugarloaf Brook, and a guide to stormwater management from Easthampton. A vote is scheduled to submit the revised Deerfield MVP Plan to the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EOEEA), and the group will discuss coordination with the FEMA Hazard Mitigation Plan.

• Update on landowner outreach for Deerfield River floodplain protection
• Plans for Senior Property Owner Resiliency Workshop
• Presentation on Bloody Brook and Sugarloaf Brook Watershed Analysis
• Vote to submit revised Deerfield MVP Plan to EOEEA
• Update on FEMA Hazard Mitigation Plan coordination

The Deerfield Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness committee voted to approve the minutes from the March 27, 2025 meeting, removing the word “also” from the first sentence. The meeting was then unanimously adjourned. No other substantive actions or approvals were recorded.

• Approved minutes of 3/27/2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Library Board of Trustees

The Tilton Library Board of Trustees will meet to vote on the minutes from the April 2 meeting, receive the director's report, and discuss updates and announcements. The agenda is largely procedural with no major policy changes or financial items listed.

• Review and vote on minutes from April 2, 2025
• Director's report on library operations
• Updates, news, and announcements

The Library Board accepted the minutes from the April 2 meeting. It approved the amended volunteer policy and the minimum staffing policy. All three motions passed unanimously.

• Accepted April 2 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved volunteer policy amendment (unanimous)
• Approved minimum staffing policy (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss administrative items, including property tax correspondence and building permits. The board will also review requests for motor vehicle abatements and exemptions.

• Request for comments on Map 7 Lot 3
• Request for comments on Map 132 Lot 3
• Letter from Mrs. Puschak regarding property taxes
• Motor vehicle abatement and exemption requests
• Review of April deeds, plans, and building permits

The Board held its reorganization and committee appointments. No comments were received on Map 7 Lot 3 or Map 132 Lot 3 requests. The clerk was directed to send a letter to Mrs. Puschak about available property tax exemptions. Motor vehicle excise abatements were processed using the signature stamp.

• Held reorganization & committee appointments
• No comments received on Map 7 Lot 3 request
• No comments received on Map 132 Lot 3 request
• Clerk to send tax exemption letter to Mrs. Puschak
• Processed motor vehicle excise abatements per attached list

Town Buildings Advisory Committee

The Town Building Advisory Committee will discuss a building maintenance plan, associated costs, and a potential contract. They will also review and approve previous meeting minutes and address the Senior Center Building project. This is a regular meeting of the advisory committee.

• Review and approval of previous meeting minutes
• Discussion of building maintenance plan and costs
• Potential contract for building maintenance
• Update on Senior Center Building project
• Scheduling of future meeting dates

Tilton Library Building Committee

The committee will discuss ongoing construction progress and cost status for the Tilton Library project. Updates on furniture, fixtures, and equipment are also scheduled, along with a new business item regarding a canopy. The meeting is procedural with no votes or decisions specified.

• Construction update
• Cost update
• Furniture, fixtures, and equipment discussion
• New business: canopy update

The Tilton Library Building Committee accepted the minutes from the April 7, 2025 meeting. No other actions were voted on. The meeting was then adjourned. Updates on construction, costs, and landscaping were provided but not decided.

• Accepted April 7, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Deerfield Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on two Notices of Intent and two Requests for Determination of Applicability under the Wetlands Protection Act. Projects include an access road at 222-224 Upper Road, a service drive at 4 Industrial Drive East, and wetland determinations for work at 494 Greenfield Road and off Little Meadow Road, both filed by Deerfield Academy. The commission will also consider ratification of an emergency certificate for 731 Greenfield Road.

• Continued hearing on Notice of Intent for access road construction at 222-224 Upper Road (Map 38 Lot 20) by Henry Komosa
• New hearing on Notice of Intent for a 9-foot gravel service drive and restoration planting at 4 Industrial Drive East (Map 183 Lots 8 & 9) by Mark Valone
• Request for Determination of Applicability for 494 Greenfield Road (Map 69 Lot 23) by Trustees of Deerfield Academy
• Request for Determination of Applicability for off Little Meadow Road (Map 61 Lot 13) by Trustees of Deerfield Academy
• Ratification of Emergency Certificate for 731 Greenfield Road

The commission approved an emergency certification allowing work on a Berkshire gas line at 731 Greenfield Road. It also continued hearings on two pending NOI applications (Upper Road and Industrial Drive East) to the May 22 meeting. A Negative Determination with conditions was issued for the 494 Greenfield Rd project, and a Positive Determination requiring a new NOI was made for the Little Meadow Rd project. All votes were unanimous, 3‑0‑0.

• Continued hearing on 222-224 Upper Road NOI #142-0244 to May 22 (3-0-0)
• Continued hearing on 4 Industrial Drive East NOI to May 22 (3-0-0)
• Issued Negative Determination with conditions for 494 Greenfield Rd RDA (3-0-0)
• Issued Positive Determination requiring NOI for Little Meadow Rd RDA (3-0-0)
• Ratified emergency certification for work at 731 Greenfield Rd (3-0-0)

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will meet remotely to discuss the draft CPC Plan, review a pre-application example from Shelburne, and receive the results of Town Meeting votes on CPC applications. The agenda also includes approval of past meeting minutes and new business items.

• Discussion of draft CPC Plan with Andrea Donlon
• Review of Shelburne pre-application example
• Results of Town Meeting votes on CPC applications
• Approval of minutes from previous meetings
• New business items unanticipated 48 hours prior

The Community Preservation Committee delayed the review of the previous minutes to the next meeting. No substantive project approvals or funding allocations were decided. The meeting was adjourned after a motion was moved and seconded, with all members in agreement.

• Postponed review of minutes to the next meeting
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous agreement)

Board of Health

This meeting is a workshop for the Board of Health and emergency response partners to review the Training Needs Assessment and discuss training recommendations for the next several years. The group will begin drafting the Multi-Year Integrated Preparedness Plan, as required by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.

• Review of Training Needs Assessment
• Discussion of training recommendations for the next several years
• Development of the DRAFT Multi-Year Integrated Preparedness Plan
• Compliance with MA DPH requirement for Local Board of Health emergency plans

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Deerfield Annual Town Meeting will vote on the proposed $19,682,746 FY2026 omnibus budget, along with special appropriations, revolving fund limits, and enterprise fund budgets. Other items include acknowledging over $500,000 in donations from Deerfield Academy and other schools, and a $90,000 transfer for snow removal shortfall.

• Proposed FY2026 omnibus budget of $19,682,746
• Deerfield Academy gifts totaling $501,523 for services, SRO program, and sewer pipe replacement
• $90,000 transfer from available funds to cover FY2025 snow and ice removal shortfall
• Sewer Enterprise Fund budget of $2,199,618 for FY2026
• South County EMS Enterprise Fund budget of $1,842,528 for FY2026

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Selectboard, Board of Health, and Sewer Commissioners will meet to discuss and decide on the Annual Town Meeting Warrant. Public comment has been suspended for this meeting to prioritize Town Meeting business.

• Annual Town Meeting Warrant

Capital Improvements Committee

The Capital Improvement Planning Committee will meet to discuss projects for the 2026 fiscal year. The meeting is scheduled for April 28, 2025, at the Frontier Regional School Gymnasium.

• FY2026 Capital Projects

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold continued public hearings on a special permit for an 8,000 sq ft dog shelter at 0 Greenfield Road and a variance for manufacturing use at 6 North Street. New hearings include a special permit for continuation of a pre-existing nonconforming use at 6 North Street and a variance for an internally lit exterior sign at 12 Merrigan Way. The board will also approve minutes from March 20, 2025.

• Continued hearing: Special permit for 8,000 sq ft dog shelter by Friends of Franklin County Dog Shelter at 0 Greenfield Road (Map 132 Lot 3) in Industrial district
• Continued hearing: Variance for manufacturing use by Turkey Plains, Inc. at 6 North Street (Map 168 Lot 115) in C1 district
• New hearing: Special permit by Howie Realty, LLC for continuation of nonconforming use at 6 North Street (Map 168 Lot 115) in C1 district
• New hearing: Variance by Michael Arsenault for internally lit exterior sign at 12 Merrigan Way (Map 168 Parcels 21 & 21.2) in EPD district

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a Special Permit for 6 North Street with detailed conditions. It denied the requested variance for an internally lit sign at 12 Merrigan Way. The board also continued the hearing on the Greenfield Road dog shelter permit and accepted the withdrawal of a variance application for 6 North Street.

• Minutes of 3/20/2025 approved (5-0-0)
• Hearing for Special Permit 0 Greenfield Rd continued to May 15 (5-0-0)
• Withdrawal of variance application for 6 North St accepted (5-0-0)
• Hearing for 6 North St variance closed (5-0-0)
• Special Permit for 6 North St approved with conditions (5-0-0)
• Variance for 12 Merrigan Way denied (5-0-0)
• Meeting adjourned (5-0-0)

South County Emergency Medical Services Board of Oversight

The South County EMS Board of Oversight will meet to conduct an annual review of the Chief's goals. The board will also discuss the current promotion policy and provide an update on ambulance replacement.

• Chief’s goals and annual review by Deerfield BOS
• Review of current promotion policy
• Ambulance replacement update

Selectboard / Board of Health

This meeting includes discussion of a proposed townwide speed limit of 25 MPH, as well as reviews of proposals for the Deerfield Pond wastewater treatment plant upgrades and for sweeping the Leary Lot ($1,950/year). The board will also hear a first reading of Deerfield Academy gifts and consider a one-day liquor license for Yankee Candle Village. Several minutes from past meetings and appointments are also on the agenda.

• Townwide speed limit of 25 MPH (discussion)
• Review DPC ODWWTP Phased Upgrades Proposal (wastewater plant)
• Review GZA proposal for Eastern/Graves ditch
• Review JR Sweeping Proposal for Leary Lot: $1,950/year ($975 per sweep/vacuum)
• First reading of Deerfield Academy gifts; one-day liquor license for Yankee Candle Village (May 8, 5-8 PM)

The Selectboard approved multiple contracts and ordinances, including a $44,139.30 engineering study for the Old Deerfield Wastewater Treatment Plant and a $5,600 environmental consulting study for the Sugarloaf Group Tributary. It also adopted a townwide 25 mph speed‑limit amendment, a one‑day liquor license for Yankee Candle Village, and the Town Meeting warrant, and appointed Ned Saviski as Inspector of Animals. All motions passed unanimously (3‑0‑0).

• Approved $44,139.30 DPC engineering contract for phased upgrades at Old Deerfield Wastewater Treatment Plant (3-0-0)
• Approved $5,600 GZA environmental consulting contract for Sugarloaf Group Tributary (3-0-0)
• Approved townwide 25 mph speed‑limit amendment for thickly settled or business districts (3-0-0)
• Approved one‑day liquor license for Yankee Candle Village, May 8, 5‑8 pm (3-0-0)
• Approved Town Meeting warrant for April 28, 2025 at Frontier Regional School Gymnasium (3-0-0)
• Appointed Ned Saviski as Inspector of Animals (3-0-0)
• Approved $204,537.50 Green Communities grant to Advanced Energy Group for Deerfield Elementary building‑management system (3-0-0)
• Appointed Town Administrator as signatory on wastewater and stormwater asset‑management plan grants (3-0-0)

Board of Assessors

The Deerfield Board of Assessors will meet to handle routine administrative matters, including approving previous meeting minutes, reviewing payables and business certificates, and discussing a request for comments on Map 168 Lot 115. The board will also consider FY 2026 preliminary property tax billing set-up and motor vehicle abatement requests. An executive session is planned to comply with state law regarding abatement proceedings.

• Minutes of April 1, 2025 meeting
• Payables and business certificates
• Map 168 Lot 115: request for comments
• FY 2026 preliminary property tax billing set-up
• Motor vehicle abatement requests

The board accepted the minutes from the April 1, 2025 meeting by a 2‑0 vote. It approved using a 1 % increase over last year’s tax bills for the first and second quarter preliminary property tax bills for FY 2026, with no new growth calculated, also by a 2‑0 vote. Payables were approved and signed, and the clerk was instructed to remove the commercial land‑use code for Map 168 Lot 18. The board agreed to sign off on FY 2025 exemption reimbursements in Gateway.

• Accepted April 1, 2025 meeting minutes (2‑0)
• Approved 1 % increase for FY 2026 preliminary tax bills (2‑0)
• Approved and signed payables
• Directed clerk to remove commercial land‑use code for Map 168 Lot 18
• Board to sign off FY 2025 exemption reimbursements in Gateway
• No comments received on Map 168 Lot 115 request
• Processed Motor Vehicle Excise abatements per attached list
• Constituted executive session under MGL c. 30A §21(a)(7)

Personnel Board

The Personnel Board will meet to discuss and potentially decide on the grading and regrading of two specific town positions. The meeting is being held remotely.

• Regrading of Land Use Coordinator position
• Grading of Conservation Agent position

Historical Commission

The Deerfield Historical Commission meets for a regular session covering the clerk's report, budget updates, old business items, and correspondence. No major decisions or new proposals are on the agenda.

• Digital records storage: discussions with Town Administrator and Frontier History Department about student involvement
• Form B storage update
• Eaglebrook School archives return status
• Old Albany Road Cemetery landscaping
• Mill River Cemetery graves repair and alignment

Capital Improvements Committee

The committee will meet to discuss capital projects for fiscal year 2026. The session includes a review of previous minutes and a period for public comment.

• FY2026 Capital Projects

The committee approved the meeting minutes with a 6-0-0 vote. A motion to shift the Police Department's $50,000 design request to FY27 passed 5-0-1. Another motion moved the DES flooring request of $28,500 to FY26, approved 6-0-0.

• Approved meeting minutes (6-0-0)
• Moved Police Department $50,000 design request to FY27 (5-0-1)
• Moved DES $28,500 flooring request to FY26 (6-0-0)

1888 Building Advisory Committee

The committee will review meeting minutes from March 14, 2025, and discuss project updates. The agenda is procedural with no specific votes or public hearings scheduled. The next meeting is set for May 9, 2025.

• Review of March 14, 2025 meeting minutes
• Discussion of project updates
• Review of upcoming meetings and milestones

The committee approved the minutes from the March 14, 2024 meeting. They scheduled the project bid documents to be uploaded on April 18, 2025. Future Design Development meetings will be held on the second Friday of each month at 10:00 a.m.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (03/14/2024)
• Scheduled bid document upload for 04/18/2025
• Set monthly meeting schedule: 2nd Friday each month at 10:00 a.m.

DEDIC

The Deerfield Economic Development & Industrial Corporation will meet to review reports and discuss an upcoming required economic development public hearing. The committee will also review draft information for a response to Sheehan.

• Update on required economic development public hearing
• Draft information for Sheehan response

The board approved the draft minutes from 2/13/2025 with one abstention. It agreed that Planning & Economic Development Coordinator Alexandria Galloway will review and scan a box of original DEDIC information before the documents are stored in the locked cabinet. The meeting was adjourned with unanimous approval.

• Approved draft 2/13/2025 DEDIC Open Session minutes (unanimously approved with one abstention)
• Agreed to let Alexandria Galloway review and scan original DEDIC documents before storage
• Supported Chairman’s response to Daniel Sheehan regarding the proposed animal kennel on Plain Road East
• Motion to adjourn meeting approved unanimously

Tilton Library Building Committee

The committee will discuss the current status of library construction and project costs. Members will also review selections for IT, signage, locking systems, and furniture. The meeting includes a discussion on a solar grant application.

• Construction and cost updates
• Selection and ordering of IT, signage, and locking systems
• Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment review
• Solar grant application

The Tilton Library Building Committee accepted the March 11, 2025 meeting minutes. It approved moving forward with the original canopy footings up to a $36,000 quote. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Accepted March 11, 2025 minutes
• Approved original canopy footings up to $36,000
• Adjourned meeting

Conservation Commission

The Deerfield Conservation Commission will hold a discussion with the Open Space Committee and a guest from the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (Nick Rossi, Land Protection Specialist) on land protection opportunities in Deerfield. The meeting is primarily a joint discussion; no decisions or votes are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion between Open Space Committee and Conservation Commission on Land Protection Opportunities
• Guest: Nick Rossi, Land Protection Specialist, MA DCR

Energy Conservation Committee

The Deerfield Energy Conservation Committee will meet remotely on April 7, 2025. They are scheduled to discuss the Climate Leadership Program, Green Communities implementation at Deerfield Elementary School, and a geothermal feasibility report for the Municipal Campus. Other agenda items include bike lane planning, updates on Mass Save incentives, and outreach efforts.

• Geothermal feasibility report for Municipal Campus
• Green Communities implementation at Deerfield Elementary School
• Mass Save Incentives status and Frontier incentive forms
• Bike lane planning in town and to neighboring communities
• Climate Leadership Program mailing and steps/requirements

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the March 3 meeting. A motion to hold all future meetings via Zoom only was passed without opposition. The next meeting was scheduled for May 13, 2025 at 5:00 pm on Zoom, and the current meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approve March 3 minutes (unanimous)
• Adopt Zoom‑only format for future meetings (unanimous)
• Schedule next meeting for May 13, 2025 at 5:00 pm via Zoom (unanimous)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a continued public hearing regarding a site plan and stormwater permit for a dog shelter. The board will also discuss updates to the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) bylaw.

• Public hearing continuation for Friends of the Franklin County Dog Shelter, Inc. to build an 8,000 sq. ft. shelter at 0 Greenfield Road
• Discussion of Model ADU Bylaw/ADU Bylaw update
• Review of Settright Road Solar (Old Frontier) Annual Report

The board approved the minutes from the March 3 meeting unanimously. It voted to move the public hearing on the 0 Greenfield Road dog‑shelter site‑plan to May 12 at 6:30 p.m. The board also decided not to support a petition to discontinue Rice’s Ferry road and agreed to create a working group to review ADU bylaws. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved minutes of 03/03/2025 (7-0-0)
• Continued 0 Greenfield Road site‑plan hearing to May 12 at 6:30 pm (7-0-0)
• Did not support petition to discontinue Rice's Ferry road
• Agreed to form a working group to review ADU bylaws
• Adjourned meeting (7-0-0)

South County Emergency Medical Services Board of Oversight

The South County Emergency Medical Services Board of Oversight will consider old business including the chief's annual review by the Deerfield Board of Selectmen, a chief's report covering call data, vehicle status, and finances, a promotion update, and the budget for town meeting warrants. New business includes monthly reporting by Russo. The board will also approve minutes from previous meetings.

• Chief's goals and annual review by Deerfield Board of Selectmen
• Chief's report with call data, vehicle status, and financial review
• Promotion update
• Budget for town meeting warrants
• Monthly reporting (Russo)

Connecting Community Initiative

The Connecting Community Initiative Committee is holding a regular meeting with mostly procedural items: approving minutes from February 6, 2025, receiving committee updates, and taking public comment. No rezonings, contracts, or financial decisions are on the agenda.

• Approve minutes from February 6, 2025 meeting
• Committee updates report

The Connecting Community Initiative Committee formally approved the minutes from the February 6, 2025 meeting. The committee also closed the dog shelter hearing, determining it had no jurisdiction over the project. No other formal votes were recorded during the session.

• Approved February 6, 2025 minutes (passed)
• Closed Dog Shelter hearing, determined no jurisdiction (no vote recorded)

South County Senior Center Board of Oversight

The South County Senior Center Board of Oversight will review community forum results regarding design choices and participant residency. The board will also discuss grant updates and the potential for a consortium or district.

• Community forum design vote: 69 for Whately Design, 43 for Deerfield Design
• MassDOT Grant partnership with PVTA for Community Transit to Bridget Gap
• Updates on Wells Trust and ended Digital Literacy and Hybrid Programming grants
• Discussion on Consortium or District options
• Upcoming events including visits from Congressman McGovern (4/16), Sen Comerford and Rep Blais (6/6)

The South County Senior Center Board of Oversight voted to adjourn the meeting at 7:12 p.m. No other actions were approved, denied, or tabled. The meeting included reports on community‑forum preferences, letters of support, a grant‑funded transit coordinator, and upcoming events.

• Motion to adjourn passed (motion by Trevor McDaniel, seconded by Joyce Palmer‑Fortune)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Deerfield Selectboard and Board of Health will hold a public hearing on April 2, 2025, to consider a petition from Verizon New England and NStar Electric (d/b/a Eversource Energy) to erect poles, wires, and fixtures on Lower Road. The hearing is required by state law and will be held in person at Town Offices and remotely via Zoom. The full petition plan is available for viewing at the Town Offices or on the town website.

• Public hearing on petition by Verizon New England and Eversource to install poles, wires, and fixtures on Lower Road

The Deerfield Selectboard approved the appointment of members to the Senior Housing Proposal Committee. It also approved a telephone pole upgrade petition, a contract for a Pocumtuck Rock survey, and a letter of support for Frontier Regional School's turf field project. All motions passed unanimously. The meeting minutes were also approved.

• Approved closure of Lower Road pole petition hearing (3-0-0)
• Approved Lower Road pole upgrade petition (3-0-0)
• Approved minutes as presented (3-0-0)
• Appointed members to Senior Housing Proposal Committee (3-0-0)
• Approved Berkshire Design Group contract to survey Pocumtuck Rock (3-0-0)
• Approved Frontier Turf Field CDS application letter of support (3-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:19 pm (3-0-0)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Selectboard/Board of Health/Sewer Commissioners will meet April 2, 2025, in a hybrid format. They will first enter executive session to discuss collective bargaining with police and highway unions and strategy in a Land Court case. Public items include a hearing on a pole petition for Lower Road, discussion of senior housing proposal committee makeup, wastewater treatment plant upgrades, a rock survey contract, and a letter of support for a turf field project.

• Pole Petition Hearing: Lower Road
• Senior Housing Proposal Committee Makeup and Charge
• DPC ODWWTP Phased Upgrades Proposal
• Berkshire Design Group Pocumtuck Rock Survey Contract
• Frontier Turf Field CDS Application – letter of support, certification

The Selectboard approved the Berkshire Design Group contract to survey Pocumtuck Rock parcels (3-0-0). It also appointed members to the Senior Housing Proposal Committee (3-0-0) and approved the Lower Road pole petition (3-0-0). Additional actions included closing the public hearing, supporting Frontier Turf Field renovations, and adjourning the meeting (each 3-0-0).

• Closed public hearing on Lower Road pole petition (3-0-0)
• Approved Lower Road pole petition (3-0-0)
• Approved meeting minutes as presented (3-0-0)
• Appointed Senior Housing Proposal Committee members (3-0-0)
• Approved Berkshire Design Group contract to survey Pocumtuck Rock (3-0-0)
• Approved Frontier Turf Field CDS application letter of support (3-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:19 pm (3-0-0)

Library Board of Trustees

The Tilton Library Board of Trustees will meet on April 2, 2025, to vote on minutes from the previous meeting and receive the director's report. The agenda also includes updates and announcements, with the next meeting scheduled for May 7. The meeting is largely procedural with no substantive decisions or discussions listed.

• Vote on minutes from March 5, 2025 meeting
• Director's report on library operations

The trustees accepted the March 5 minutes unanimously. They approved the Collection Development Policy and the Special Collections Policy, each with unanimous votes. The Food & Beverage Policy was also accepted. No other motions were denied or tabled.

• Accepted March 5, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Collection Development Policy (unanimous)
• Approved Special Collections Policy (unanimous)
• Accepted Food & Beverage Policy (motion carried)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss administrative items and property assessments. The agenda includes a scheduled appearance regarding Map 152 Lot 7 and a review of motor vehicle abatements. The meeting will conclude with an executive session to comply with MGL Chapter 59 section 60 requirements.

• Appearance of Steve Upton regarding Map 152 Lot 7
• Levy of 2025 Motor Vehicle Excise Commitment #2
• Review of Motor Vehicle Abatements
• Review of March Deeds, Plans, and Building Permits

The board accepted the March 18, 2025 meeting minutes with a 2‑0 vote. It approved and signed the 2025 Motor Vehicle Excise Commitment #2. Motor Vehicle Excise abatements were processed as listed. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Accepted March 18, 2025 minutes (2-0 vote)
• Approved 2025 Motor Vehicle Excise Commitment #2 (approved & signed)
• Processed Motor Vehicle Excise abatements (list attached)

Tri-Town Beach Commission

The Tri-Town Beach Commission meets to approve minutes, discuss open issues including property line survey, beaver mitigation, fence repair, and gate code/lock replacement, and update on the 2025 season covering programs, pricing, staffing interviews (in closed session), and opening dates.

• Survey/staking of property lines at the beach
• Beaver issue at the beach
• Fence on northern border – repair or replacement
• Gate code, locking, repair, and location discussion
• 2025 season pricing, programs, and staffing interviews (closed session)

The commission approved hiring Galenski Farm to provide landscaping services for the field this season. It also approved reimbursing fuel costs for beach‑sand turning and agreed to interview all staffing applicants, prioritizing experienced lifeguards and gatekeepers. Additionally, the commission authorized the purchase of two new kayaks and two paddleboards for the upcoming season.

• Approved hiring Galenski Farm for field landscaping services (season)
• Approved reimbursement of fuel costs for beach sand turning equipment
• Approved interviewing all lifeguard and gatekeeper candidates
• Approved purchase of two kayaks and two paddleboards for the coming season
• Discussed possible modest waiver fee for paddleboard use
• Motion to adjourn approved 4-0

Conservation Commission

The Deerfield Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on a Notice of Intent for construction of an access road to an existing agricultural field at 222-224 Upper Road, and discuss conditions for an NOI at 15 Captain Lathrop Drive. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes, reports on March site visits, and general business.

• Public hearing on NOI #142-0244 for access road at 222-224 Upper Road (Map 38 Lot 20)
• Discussion of conditions for NOI at 15 Captain Lathrop Drive
• Approval of minutes from 1/23/2025 and 2/27/2025
• Site visits completed in March (general discussion)
• Upcoming meeting scheduled for April 17, 2025

The commission approved the minutes from the January 23 and February 27 meetings by a 3‑0‑1 vote. It agreed that work at 15 Captain Lathrop Drive may begin in mid‑April once the building permit and erosion‑control measures are inspected. A motion to continue the Upper Road NOI hearing until the May 1, 2025 meeting passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 6:45 pm by a 4‑0‑0 vote.

• Approved 1/23/2025 minutes (3-0-1)
• Approved 2/27/2025 minutes (3-0-1)
• Allowed work at 15 Captain Lathrop Drive to start mid‑April pending permit and inspection
• Continued Upper Road NOI hearing to May 1, 2025 (4-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:45 pm (4-0-0)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Finance Committee, Selectboard, Board of Health, and Sewer Commissioners are holding a joint meeting. The body will review remaining budget line items and compare the full budget to revenues.

• Review of remaining budget line items
• Comparison of full budget to revenues

The Selectboard approved the Board of Health payroll line item with a unanimous 3‑0‑0 vote. They also voted to close the Annual Town Meeting Warrant and to adopt a letter of support opposing pipeline reopening, each passing 3‑0‑0. The meeting was adjourned after a unanimous vote.

• Approved Board of Health payroll line item (3-0-0)
• Approved closing of the Annual Town Meeting Warrant (3-0-0)
• Approved letter of support opposing pipeline reopening (3-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0-0)

Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP)

The Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness Core Group will review outcomes from a public forum and update the list of priority projects for the MVP plan. The group will also discuss grant opportunities for FY26 and progress on floodplain protection.

• Outcomes from Public Forum for Bloody Brook and Sugarloaf/Blacksmith Brook Hydrology Study
• Landowner outreach update on Deerfield River Floodplain Protection
• Initial plans for Senior Property Owner Resiliency Workshop
• Updated list of MVP Priority Projects, including culvert priorities
• Discussion of FY26 MVP Grants and other funding opportunities

The meeting minutes were voted on and adopted on May 7, 2025. Greg Snedeker was assigned responsibility for taking future minutes. Several action items were assigned, including Chris Curzgns reviewing FY24 MVP Green Infrastructure invoices and Carolyn Shores Ness adding a solar‑panel study to the strategy list and coordinating an NRCS workshop. The committee also clarified quorum rules and scheduled the next meeting for May 7 at 6 p.m.

• Minutes voted and adopted (5/7/2025) – adopted
• Greg Snedeker assigned to take minutes – assigned
• Chris Curzgns to review FY24 MVP Green Infrastructure invoices – assigned
• Carolyn Shores Ness to add solar‑panel project item to top strategies list – assigned
• Carolyn Shores Ness to coordinate NRCS senior property owner resiliency workshop – assigned
• Carolyn Shores Ness to contact Henry about continued committee membership – assigned
• Next meeting scheduled for May 7 at 6:00 p.m., with possible GZA attendance – scheduled
• Quorum defined as majority of total members; votes pass by simple majority of those present – clarified

Personnel Board

The Deerfield Personnel Board will meet remotely to discuss and decide on several personnel policies, including bereavement, conflict of interest, and vacation leave updates. The board will also receive updates on town hiring for the Superintendent of Public Works and Planning & Economic Development Coordinator. Additionally, a hearing is scheduled on a draft job description for Land Use Coordinator.

• Discussion/decision on bereavement policy
• Discussion/decision on conflict of interest policy regarding family member supervision
• Discussion/decision on vacation leave updates
• Town Administrator updates on hiring for Superintendent of DPW and Planning & Economic Development Coordinator
• Hearing on draft job description for Land Use Coordinator (Amy Hahn)

The Deerfield Personnel Board approved the revised Conflict-of-Interest Policy, adding a clarification that the $50 gift threshold applies over a year, not per event. The motion passed unanimously (5-0-0). The board also approved the minutes from the February 25, 2025 meeting (4-0-1) and adjourned the session (5-0-0).

• Approved February 25, 2025 minutes (4-0-1)
• Approved Conflict-of-Interest Policy changes, including $50 annual gift threshold clarification (5-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0-0)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Finance Committee will hold a joint meeting with the Selectboard, Board of Health, and Sewer Commissioners. The body will review the capital budget and any remaining budget line items.

• Review of capital budget
• Review of remaining budget line items

The Selectboard/Board of Health/Sewer Commissioners joint meeting reviewed the town budget, focusing on capital projects such as the elementary school playground and police department expansion. The budget items were approved on April 16, 2025. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous vote.

• Approved budget capital items (April 16, 2025)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0-0)

Capital Improvements Committee

The Capital Improvement Planning Committee will meet to discuss capital projects for fiscal year 2026. The meeting includes time for public comment and the review of previous minutes.

• FY2026 Capital Projects

The Capital Improvement Planning Committee presented FY26 capital projects to the finance committee and selectboard. No substantive actions were taken. The meeting was adjourned after a motion that passed unanimously (4-0-0).

• Adjourned meeting (vote 4-0-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on two applications: a variance for 6 North Street to allow manufacturing in a C1 district, and a special permit for a roughly 8,000 sq. ft. dog shelter at 0 Greenfield Road in the Industrial district. The board will also consider approving minutes from January 16, 2025.

• Public hearing: Variance for Turkey Plains, Inc. at 6 North Street (Map 168 Lot 115) for manufacturing use in C1 district
• Public hearing: Special permit for Friends of the Franklin County Dog Shelter, Inc. at 0 Greenfield Road (Map 132 Lot 3) for an 8,000 sq. ft. dog shelter in Industrial district
• Approval of minutes from January 16, 2025

The Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved the minutes from the January 16 meeting. It voted to continue the variance hearing for 6 North Street to April 17. The board withdrew the motion to approve the special permit for the Franklin County Regional Dog Shelter and also postponed that hearing to April 17. All votes were 7‑0‑0.

• Approved Jan 16 minutes (7-0-0)
• Continued variance hearing for 6 North St to April 17 (7-0-0)
• Withdrew motion to approve special permit for dog shelter (motion withdrawn)
• Continued special permit hearing to April 17 (7-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (7-0-0)

Capital Improvements Committee

The committee will meet to discuss capital projects for fiscal year 2026. The agenda does not list specific projects, dollar amounts, or proposals for decision.

• Discussion of FY2026 Capital Projects

The committee approved the March 13, 2025 meeting minutes with a 4‑0‑0 roll call vote. No new FY26 capital project recommendations were made. The meeting was then adjourned by a 4‑0‑0 vote.

• Approved 3/13/2025 minutes (4-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0-0)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The joint Selectboard/Board of Health/Sewer Commissioners will hold a public hearing on a pole petition from Verizon/N-Star (Eversource) for Lee Rd, Upper Rd, and Old Albany Rd, and schedule a separate pole hearing for Lower Rd on April 2. They will also enter executive session regarding Steam Mill Rd, approve 24 sets of minutes, and discuss a letter about a transfer station attendant, the Eaglebrook Forest Cutting Plan, and the Town Meeting warrant.

• Pole petition hearing for Verizon/N-Star (Eversource) on Lee Rd, Upper Rd, and Old Albany Rd
• Petition for pole hearing on Lower Rd scheduled for April 2
• Executive session regarding Steam Mill Rd
• Letter from Shirley Majewski regarding Kyle Kabaniec, Transfer Station Attendant
• Eaglebrook Forest Cutting Plan and Town Meeting warrant discussion

The Selectboard certified that a public hearing on March 19, 2025 approved Verizon/N-Star’s pole construction request, with a 2‑0‑1 vote. A separate hearing for a pole line on Lower Road was scheduled for April 2, 2025 by a unanimous 3‑0‑0 vote. The Board also approved the meeting minutes and a transfer‑station attendant appointment.

• Certified March 19 public hearing and adopted pole construction order (2-0-1)
• Closed public hearing on Lee, Upper and Old Albany Roads pole petition (2-0-0)
• Scheduled Verizon/N-Star pole hearing on Lower Rd for April 2, 2025 (3-0-0)
• Approved meeting minutes as presented (3-0-0)
• Approved Shirley Majewski letter regarding Kyle Kabaniec transfer station attendant (approved April 16, 2025)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:47 pm (3-0-0)

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will review a draft of Chapter 1 of the CPC Plan, including a mission statement and guiding principles, with consultant Andrea Donlon. The committee will also discuss the pre-application form and deadline for future project proposals. A six-month update on the 1888 Building and a late application for APR will be considered.

• Review draft Chapter 1 of CPC Plan with consultant Andrea Donlon
• Discuss pre-application form and deadline for project proposals
• Six-month update on the 1888 Building
• Consideration of APR late application

The Committee approved the acceptance of the March 5, 2025 meeting minutes. It also approved the Melnik Farms application, contingent on approval by the Selectboard and Finance Committee and compliance with the Agricultural Protection Act. The next meeting is scheduled for April 9, 2025.

• Approved acceptance of March 5, 2025 minutes
• Approved Melnik Farms application subject to Selectboard and Finance Committee approval and Agricultural Protection Act compliance

Connecting Community Initiative

The March 18, 2025 meeting of the Deerfield Connecting Community Initiative Committee was cancelled. No agenda items were discussed or decided. The meeting did not occur.

• Meeting cancelled

Board of Assessors

The Deerfield Board of Assessors will meet to approve meeting minutes, review administrative items including payables and business certificates, and discuss several property-related matters. New business includes motor vehicle abatement requests and items concerning specific map lots, including a solar contract and APR requests. The board will also enter executive session to comply with state law regarding tax abatement requirements.

• February deeds, plans, and building permits to be reviewed
• Map 110 Lots 20 & 21: solar contract discussion
• Map 124 Lot 16: APR request
• Map 92 Lot 16: request for comments
• Motor vehicle abatement requests

The Deerfield Board of Assessors approved and signed a solar contract for Map 110 Lots 20 & 21, and approved payables. They reviewed business certificates, February deeds/plans/building permits, an APR request for Map 124 Lot 16, and had no comments on Map 92 Lot 16. Motor vehicle abatements were processed via signature stamp. The board entered executive session to comply with MGL Chapter 59 section 60 requirements.

• Approved minutes of 02/18/2025 (2-0)
• Approved and signed payables
• Approved and signed solar contract for Map 110 Lots 20 & 21
• Reviewed business certificates
• Reviewed February deeds, plans & building permits
• Reviewed APR request for Map 124 Lot 16
• No comments on Map 92 Lot 16 request
• Processed motor vehicle abatements via signature stamp

1888 Building Advisory Committee

The committee will review project updates regarding the 1888 Building. Discussions include USDA Rural Development spending, hazardous material abatement, and design status from Kuhn Riddle Architects.

• Update on Congressionally Directed Spending administered by USDA Rural Development
• Hazardous material abatement update from P3 (OPM)
• Kuhn Riddle Architects design status for driveway, parking, and fire code compliance
• Review of project cost estimates

The Deerfield Building Advisory Committee approved the prior meeting minutes and discussed the Deerfield 1888 Building project. They reviewed a revised cost estimate of $7.2 million for the existing building and addition, slightly over budget, and decided to proceed to bid documents. Bids for abatement were rejected due to the low bidder missing scope; abatement will now be included in the general project bid. The committee also discussed funding options for adding driveway and parking, including Chapter 90 funds.

• Approved meeting minutes from 02/14/2024
• Rejected abatement bids; abatement scope moved to general project bid
• Proceeded to bid documents with $7.2M revised cost estimate
• Discussed using Chapter 90, fair share amendment, and rural apportionment funds for driveway/parking

Capital Improvements Committee

The Deerfield Capital Improvements Committee will meet remotely on March 13, 2025. The main agenda item is discussion of FY2026 capital projects. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes, scheduling of upcoming meetings, and public comment.

• Discussion of FY2026 Capital Projects

The Capital Improvement Planning Committee approved priority rankings for FY26 capital projects, with most receiving a priority of 1. Several priorities were contingent on funding or other approvals. The committee also approved the minutes from the previous meeting.

• Approved minutes from 3/1/2025 meeting (6-0-0)
• Recommended priority 1 for DES Playground project (6-0-0)
• Recommended priority 1 for DES Flooring project (6-0-0)
• Recommended priority 4 for DES Circulatory Pumps for Heating project (6-0-0)
• Recommended priority 3 for Admin Computer project (6-0-0)
• Recommended priority 1 for Elm St Complete Streets project, contingent on funding (5-0-1)
• Recommended priority 1 for 1888 Building Site Work project, contingent on funding (5-0-1)
• Recommended priority 1 for Tri-Town Beach project, contingent on Whately approvals (5-0-1)

Tilton Library Building Committee

The committee will meet to discuss the current status of library construction and project costs. Members will also review selections for IT, signage, locking systems, and furniture, fixtures, and equipment.

• Construction update
• Cost update
• Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment review
• IT selection and ordering
• Signage and Locking Systems

The Tilton Building Committee met on March 11, 2025, and approved two motions related to a possible canopy: one to have Vern Harrington send footings information to other companies for estimates not to exceed $20K, and another for Phil to request an electrical quote for the canopy. The construction project is at 65% completion, on budget, with a contingency of $277K. The committee also accepted the minutes from the February 11 and February 26 meetings.

• Approved the minutes from the February 11, 2025 meeting
• Approved the minutes from the February 26, 2025 meeting
• Approved a motion for Vern Harrington to send footings information to other companies for canopy estimates not to exceed $20K
• Approved a motion for Phil to request an electrical quote for the canopy

Capital Improvements Committee

The Capital Improvements Planning Committee will meet to discuss and potentially prioritize capital projects for fiscal year 2026. No specific projects or dollar amounts are listed on the agenda. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and public comment.

• Discussion of FY2026 Capital Projects

The Capital Improvement Planning Committee approved several capital project requests, including a $10,082,360 new South County Senior Center building starting in FY27, a $50,000 Police Department expansion design, and a $2,554,700 wastewater effluent pipe replacement. All votes were unanimous or near-unanimous, with one abstention each on the senior center and agricultural preservation restriction items. The committee also approved minutes from the previous meeting and heard a finance update from Julie Chalfant.

• Approved Police Department Expansion/Renovation design funding of $50,000 for FY26 (7-0)
• Approved New South County Senior Center Building request of $10,082,360 starting FY27 (6-0-1, Clancy abstained)
• Approved Tri-Town Beach upgrades of $16,000 for FY26 (7-0)
• Approved SDWWTF Effluent Pipe Replacement Project of $2,554,700 for FY26 (7-0)
• Approved Agricultural Preservation Restriction for Steve & Kathy Melnik Family Trust of $19,000 for FY26 (6-0-1, Brennan abstained)
• Approved minutes from 3/6/2025 meeting (6-0-0)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Finance Committee, Selectboard, Board of Health, and Sewer Commissioners are meeting jointly to review the town budget, focusing on the Board of Health payroll and expenses, Smith Vocational School, Deerfield Elementary, Frontier Regional School, Frontier debt service and transportation, and Franklin Tech assessment and debt service. No specific dollar amounts or decisions are detailed in the agenda; the discussion is preliminary ahead of future meetings.

• Review of Board of Health budget lines: payroll (512-5110) and expenses (512-5400)
• Review of school budgets: Smith Vocational expenses, Deerfield Elementary, Frontier Regional School and its debt service and transportation
• Review of Franklin Tech assessment and debt service
• Scheduling of future budget meetings through April 28 Town Meeting

The Selectboard, Board of Health, and Sewer Commissioners jointly reviewed the town budget and voted to recommend several line items, including the Franklin County Technical School assessment and debt service, Recreation Department Director salary, Memorial Day expense, FRCOG Core assessment, Sewer Payroll, Wastewater Treatment Plant Expense, and Sewer Enterprise Fund. The Board of Health discussed but did not finalize a proposed increase in the Town Nurse's hours. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Recommended Franklin County Technical School Assessment as presented (3-0).
• Recommended Franklin County Technical School Debt Service as presented (3-0).
• Recommended Recreation Department Director Salary as discussed (3-0).
• Recommended Memorial Day Expense as presented (3-0).
• Recommended FRCOG Core Assessment as presented (3-0).
• Recommended Sewer Payroll as presented (3-0).
• Recommended Wastewater Treatment Plant Expense as presented (3-0).
• Recommended Sewer Enterprise Fund as presented (3-0).

Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP)

The MVP Core Group will review outcomes from the public forum on the Bloody Brook and Sugarloaf/Blacksmith Brook hydrology study, receive updates on landowner outreach for Deerfield River floodplain protection, and discuss initial plans for a Senior Property Owner Resiliency Workshop. The group will also review an updated list of priority projects, consider a new round of FY26 MVP grants, and address quorum and membership issues.

• Public forum outcomes for Bloody Brook and Sugarloaf/Blacksmith Brook hydrology study
• Update on Deerfield River floodplain protection landowner outreach
• Initial plans for Senior Property Owner Resiliency Workshop
• Updated list of MVP priority projects for revised plan
• New round of FY26 MVP grants and other funding opportunities

Capital Improvements Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss capital projects for fiscal year 2026. The agenda also includes the review of minutes and scheduling of upcoming meetings.

• FY2026 Capital Projects

The Capital Improvement Planning Committee approved eight capital project requests for FY2026 and FY2027, all by unanimous 6-0 votes. Projects include a sewer lift station generator, water supply for the wastewater treatment plant, highway equipment, and elementary school upgrades. No public comment was received.

• Approved Sewer Lift Station Generator up to $30,000 for FY2026 (6-0)
• Approved 4" Water Supply for WWTP Old Deerfield for $20,000 for FY2026 (6-0)
• Approved Highway Department Truck #12 for $77,475 for FY2027 (6-0)
• Approved Highway Department Loader for $229,000 for FY2027 (6-0)
• Approved Elementary School K-4 Playground for $200,000 for FY2026 (6-0)
• Approved Elementary School Flooring Upgrades for $28,500 for FY2026 (6-0)
• Approved Elementary School Circulation Pumps for $18,000 for FY2026 (6-0)
• Approved Open Space Committee River & Ridge Trail Complex Phase 1 for $18,000 for FY2026 (6-0)

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Deerfield Selectboard, Board of Health, and Sewer Commissioners will meet hybrid on March 5, 2025. Items include a presentation from the Ad Hoc Senior Housing Committee, a landfill solar lease amendment with Nexamp, and a contract for Elm Street Complete Streets final design. Also up for discussion are a one-day liquor license for the Shamrock Festival, a second reading of kennel licensing fees, and a request to increase election worker compensation.

• Lili Dwight from Ad Hoc Senior Housing Committee presents Senior Housing Proposal Review Committee
• David Prickett, DPC Engineering: Old Deerfield Wastewater Treatment Plant phased upgrades
• Landfill Solar agreement lease amendment with Nexamp
• Contract with Tighe & Bond for Elm Street Complete Streets project through final design
• One-Day Liquor License for Yankee Candle Village Shamrock Festival, March 15, 12-6pm

The Deerfield Selectboard/Board of Health/Sewer Commissioners approved a lease amendment and tax agreement with Deerfield Renewables, LLC for the landfill solar project. They also approved a $59,800 contract with Tighe & Bond for final design of the Elm Street Complete Streets project, a new notary policy, a one-day liquor license for Yankee Candle Village's Shamrock Festival, kennel licensing fees, increased pay for election workers, and the appointment of Nicole Thornton as a part-time paramedic.

• Approved lease agreement amendment with Deerfield Renewables, LLC for landfill solar (3-0).
• Approved tax agreement with Deerfield Renewables, LLC (3-0).
• Approved $59,800 contract with Tighe & Bond for Elm Street Complete Streets final design (3-0).
• Approved notary policy as presented (3-0).
• Approved one-day liquor license for Yankee Candle Village Shamrock Festival, March 15 (3-0).
• Approved kennel licensing fees: $70 for 1-4 dogs, $75 for 5-10, $125 for 11-24, $125 for 25+ (3-0).
• Approved increase in pay for election workers (3-0).
• Appointed Nicole Thornton as part-time Paramedic at Grade E Step 1, $31.23/hr (3-0).

Town Buildings Advisory Committee

The Deerfield Town Building Advisory Committee will review and approve previous minutes, discuss and approve the annual report to the town, and consider building maintenance plan costs and a potential contract. The meeting also includes scheduling future meetings.

• Review and approval of previous meeting minutes
• Annual report to town – discuss and approve
• Building maintenance plan/costs and potential contract

The Town Building Advisory Committee met in person and unanimously approved its annual report to the town as written. The committee also discussed building maintenance efforts. The meeting was adjourned unanimously. No other decisions were made.

• Approved the annual report to the town as written (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting at 5:57 pm (unanimous)

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will meet to approve minutes from February 12, 2025, and discuss ongoing business. The main item is meeting with FRCOG's Andrea Donlan to develop the CPC Plan. The committee will also discuss a clawback provision for projects and receive an update on the CPC website.

• Approve minutes from February 12, 2025
• Meet with FRCOG Andrea Donlan to develop CPC Plan
• Discuss clawback provision for projects
• Update on CPC website

The Community Preservation Committee met with FRCOG's Andrea Donlon to begin developing the required Community Preservation Plan, discussing its structure, public outreach for setting priorities, and a timeline with a first draft chapter due March 19. The committee unanimously approved the February 12, 2025 minutes. They also discussed adding a clawback provision to project applications, with Peter James to draft a standard contract form.

• Approved the minutes from the 2-12-2025 meeting unanimously.
• Met with FRCOG's Andrea Donlon to begin developing the Community Preservation Plan.
• Discussed a timeline for the plan, with a first draft chapter expected by March 19.
• Agreed to discuss adding a clawback provision and a standard contract form to project applications; Peter will draft it.
• Noted that no application has been filed for the requested $19,000 APR funding.
• Adjourned at 7:37 PM; next meeting scheduled for March 19, 2025.

Library Board of Trustees

The Tilton Library Board of Trustees will meet to vote on the minutes from February 5, 2025, and receive the director's report. No specific proposals, contracts, or policy changes are listed on the agenda; the meeting is routine administrative business.

• Review and vote on minutes from February 5, 2025
• Director's report on library operations

The Tilton Library Board of Trustees approved two new policies: a Study Room Policy (with an amendment) and a Teen Room Policy, both unanimously. They also discussed a potential donation from the South Deerfield Women's Club, including naming opportunities and use of library space for meetings. The board expressed consensus that installing footings for a future canopy is a worthwhile expense, though the canopy itself is not in the current budget.

• Approved Study Room Policy with amendment (unanimous)
• Approved Teen Room Policy (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes from February 5, 2025 meeting
• Consensus to support spending ~$30,000 for canopy footings

Selectboard / Board of Health

The Finance Committee, meeting jointly with the Selectboard, Board of Health, and Sewer Commissioners, will review budgets including South County EMS and Selectboard budgets. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes, reports, and scheduling future sessions.

• Review of South County EMS budget
• Review of Selectboard budgets (listed on Feb 18 agenda)
• Review of miscellaneous budgets (listed on Jan 21 agenda)
• Public comment opportunity
• Scheduling of upcoming meetings

The Selectboard, sitting jointly with the Board of Health and Sewer Commissioners, approved Deerfield's $414,995 contribution to the South County EMS budget and its Enterprise Fund, along with numerous town budget line items, all by unanimous 2-0 votes. The board also discussed SCEMS operational cost reductions and potential revenue sources, including a state CPE program to address Medicaid reimbursement gaps. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved $414,995 contribution to SCEMS budget (2-0)
• Approved contribution to SCEMS Enterprise Fund (2-0)
• Approved Town Accountant expense line item (2-0)
• Approved Personnel Board line item (2-0)
• Approved PEG Access Capital line item (2-0)
• Approved Conservation Commission line item (2-0)
• Approved Planning Board line item (2-0)
• Approved Snow and Ice expense line item (2-0)

Energy Conservation Committee

The committee will review draft minutes and receive updates on Green Communities initiatives, including implementation at Deerfield Elementary School, Frontier status, and Mass Save Incentives. They will also discuss the Climate Leadership Program, an annual report for Town Meeting, and municipal topics such as bike lanes and geothermal networking. No decisions or dollar amounts are noted in the agenda.

• Review draft minutes
• Green Communities implementation at Deerfield Elementary School
• Frontier status and Mass Save Incentives update
• Climate Leadership Program update and education materials
• Discussion of bike lanes and geothermal networking

The Deerfield Energy Conservation Committee met on March 3, 2025, and approved the February 5 minutes unanimously. They discussed follow-ups on Green Communities work, collected signatures for Town Meeting warrant articles, and noted that a citizens group will present on March 27. The committee also reviewed updates on other boards, including sidewalk repairs, solar projects, and a proposed walking trail, but made no substantive decisions beyond approving minutes and setting the next meeting.

• Approved February 5 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved next meeting via Zoom only (unanimous)
• Approved adjournment (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Deerfield Planning Board will hold two public hearings: one for a special permit to build an 83,000 sq ft produce storage building off Stillwater Road and one for a site plan review and stormwater permit for an 8,000 sq ft dog shelter at 0 Greenfield Road. The board will also review minutes from the previous meeting and address any other business.

• Special Permit hearing for Savage Farms to construct an 83,000 sq ft metal produce storage building on Map 92 Lot 16 off Stillwater Road
• Site Plan Review and Stormwater Management Permit hearing for Friends of Franklin County Dog Shelter to build an 8,000 sq ft dog shelter with kennels and parking at 0 Greenfield Road (Map 132 Lot 3)
• Review of meeting minutes from January 6, 2024

The Deerfield Planning Board approved a special permit for Savage Farms to construct an 89,930 sq ft insulated metal building for potato storage on Map 92 Lot 16 off Stillwater Road, with conditions including fire safety measures and a one-year construction start deadline. The board also continued the public hearing for the proposed 7,000 sq ft dog shelter at 0 Greenfield Road to April 7, 2025, to allow for peer review and input from police and fire departments.

• Approved special permit for 89,930 sq ft warehouse off Stillwater Road (7-0)
• Continued dog shelter hearing to April 7, 2025 (7-0)
• Accepted minutes of 2/3/2025 (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:10 pm (7-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals will meet for a site visit. The visit concerns applications for a site plan review, stormwater, and a special permit.

• Site visit for Friends of the Franklin County Regional Dog Shelter, Inc. regarding site plan review, stormwater, and special permit applications

Conservation Commission

The Deerfield Conservation Commission will hold a public meeting on February 27, 2025 to consider a Request for Determination of Applicability for a dog shelter at 0 Greenfield Road. It will also continue public hearings on a Notice of Intent for a garage at 15 Captain Lathrop Drive and an access road at 222-224 Upper Road. Additional discussion includes tree clearing at Melnik/Bar Way Farm and creation of a Conservation Fund.

• RDA for dog shelter at 0 Greenfield Road (Map 132, Lot 3)
• Continued NOI for 350 sq ft garage at 15 Captain Lathrop Drive
• Continued NOI for access road at 222-224 Upper Road
• Melnik/Bar Way Farm tree clearing
• Discussion on creating a Conservation Fund

The Deerfield Conservation Commission approved a negative determination for a new dog shelter kennel at 0 Greenfield Road, approved a garage construction NOI at 15 Captain Lathrop Drive, and continued the NOI hearing for 224 Upper Road to the next meeting. All votes were unanimous (4-0).

• Approved Form 2 Negative 3 Determination for RDA at 0 Greenfield Road (4-0)
• Approved NOI for 350 sq ft garage at 15 Captain Lathrop Drive (4-0)
• Continued NOI hearing for 224 Upper Road access road to next meeting (4-0)
• Accepted minutes from 12/19/24 (3-0-1)