Board adopts amendment to Town Code section 7-24 restricting feeding of fish and wildlife on town properties

The Board of Selectmen approved on second reading an amendment to Town Code section 7-24, which restricts feeding fish and wildlife on parks, open space and other town properties managed by the Parks Department. Lauren Raven moved to approve the amendment and Rachel Conn seconded; the motion passed unanimously.

Town staff said the proposed language is simple, enforceable and will be supported with posted signage. "We can get the signs posted. It's enforceable," a parks staff member said while summarizing enforcement plans. Staff credited coordination with other departments and named Sarah and Beth as contributors to the draft language.

The amendment must also proceed to the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) for the formal language change required under town procedures. The board did not authorize fines or additional enforcement staff at this meeting; the change focuses on a regulatory update and public education.