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)

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)

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

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

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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 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)

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

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

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)

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)

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)

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)

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

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)

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)

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)

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.

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)

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)

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

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)

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

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

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)

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

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)

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

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.

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

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.

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)

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.

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)

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)

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

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

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

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)

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

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)

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)

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

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)

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)

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)

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)

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

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

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)

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

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)

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

Historical Commission

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

Planning Board

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)

Tri-Town Beach Commission

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)

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 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)

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

Tilton Library Building Committee

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)

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

Energy Conservation Committee

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

Zoning Board of Appeals

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)

Selectboard / Board of Health

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)

Selectboard / Board of Health

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)

Board of Assessors

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)

Personnel Board

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)

Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP)

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

Selectboard / Board of Health

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)

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)

Historical Commission

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)

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)

South County Senior Center Board of Oversight

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 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 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 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

Tilton Library Building Committee

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 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 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)

South County Senior Center Board of Oversight

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 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)

Energy Conservation Committee

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)

Zoning Board of Appeals

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)

Personnel Board

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)

Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP)

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

Community Preservation Committee

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)

Board of Assessors

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)

Selectboard / Board of Health

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)

South County Emergency Medical Services Board of Oversight

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 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)

Selectboard / Board of Health

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)

South County Senior Center Board of Oversight

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)

Planning Board

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)

Library Board of Trustees

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 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 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 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 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 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 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)

Tri-Town Beach Commission

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)

Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP)

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

Board of Assessors

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

Energy Conservation Committee

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)

Historical Commission

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 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

Connecting Community Initiative

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

DEDIC

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)

Selectboard / Board of Health

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 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 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)

South County Senior Center Board of Oversight

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 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 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)

Board of Assessors

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)

Planning Board

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)

Tilton Library Building Committee

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.

Selectboard / Board of Health

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 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)

Board of Assessors

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 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)

Selectboard / Board of Health

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)

Community Preservation Committee

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)

Energy Conservation Committee

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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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

Tilton Library Building Committee

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 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 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)

Zoning Board of Appeals

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)

Selectboard / Board of Health

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 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)

Capital Improvements Committee

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 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 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

Planning Board

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)

Energy Conservation Committee

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)

Tilton Library Building Committee

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

Connecting Community Initiative

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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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)

Capital Improvements Committee

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)

Zoning Board of Appeals

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)

Selectboard / Board of Health

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 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