The Select Board meeting is officially called to order. The chair addresses technical setup issues due to a remote participant and ensures everyone can hear each other. A roll call is conducted to confirm attendance, including both in-person and online members.

Ben introduces a memo regarding economic development, the master plan, and the potential hiring of a town planner. The board discusses the need for data-driven planning, the challenges of increasing nonresidential revenue, and the importance of community consensus for development projects. Comparisons are made to other towns' experiences, and the possibility of further study or collaboration with the Planning Board is considered.

The chair announces current openings on various town boards and committees, detailing the number of vacancies, term lengths, and any specific requirements for applicants. The positions include the Affordable Housing Trust, Community Preservation Committee, Conservation Commission, Environmental Impact Committee, Historic District Commission, Human Rights Commission, and Zoning Board of Appeals.

Public comment is opened, and Dave Lash, president of the Tobacco Lake and Watershed Association, presents a state grant opportunity. He requests the board's support for the grant, including being a co-applicant and providing a letter of support. Lash explains the need to reduce phosphorus from septic systems around the lake and outlines the timeline and process for the board's involvement.

Board members provide updates on their respective committees and recent activities. Ben discusses feedback from the Capital Committee, updates from the Finance Committee, and upcoming potential warrant articles. Lee reports on the Human Rights Commission's activities, the Environmental Impact Committee's recent meeting, and community events such as the fire truck dedication and children's business fair. The chair and other members add brief updates and acknowledgments.

The chair provides an update on the status of the Town Hall relocation, noting that final inspections are pending. The board expresses hope that the next meeting will be held in the new Town Hall, pending successful completion of the remaining steps.

The board discusses a request from the Essex County Trail Association to place temporary signs advertising an upcoming trails event. The discussion covers the proposed sign locations, duration, compliance with town policy, and the distinction between nonprofit and business signage. After deliberation, the board votes to approve the request with modifications to the sign duration and placement.

Executive Director Colby Cousins presents an overview of the North Shore IT Collaborative, describing its member communities, fiber optic network, grant funding, and strategic initiatives. The presentation highlights the collaborative's cybersecurity efforts, infrastructure, and future plans, including AI adoption and expansion. Board members and the public ask questions about costs, scalability, and the relationship with the regional 911 center.

Victoria Duggan introduces herself as a candidate for the Conservation Commission, sharing her background and motivation for volunteering. Board members express appreciation for her willingness to serve, confirm her qualifications, and note the positive impact of filling the commission's membership. The board votes unanimously to appoint her to the position.

The board reviews the final version of the revised cemetery plot purchase policy, which clarifies eligibility for purchasing cemetery plots, outlines exceptions, and details the process for returning unused plots. The policy is read aloud, and the board acknowledges the work done to prepare it. A motion is made and unanimously approved to adopt the policy.

The board reviews the upcoming budget and annual town meeting (ATM) calendar, discussing key dates for meetings, deadlines, and coordination with the school district and neighboring town of Wenham. The discussion covers the scheduling of quintuple board meetings, five chairs meetings, and the implications of Wenham's recent changes to its town meeting schedule. The board ensures all members are aware of important dates and procedural requirements.

The meeting loses quorum as a member departs for a family obligation. The board discusses postponing remaining agenda items to the next meeting and coordinating agenda-setting in the interim. The meeting is adjourned, with thanks extended to all participants.