Select Board approves Little Free Library, one-day liquor permit and moves on delivery waiver; several contracts cleared

The Hampden Select Board approved multiple community requests and heard updates on town contracts at its May 18 meeting.

The board unanimously approved a Little Free Library for Green Meadows School after Principal Sharon Moberg described the proposal as a no-cost, school-funded memorial to the late reading teacher Beth Richards. ‘‘Establishing a little free library in her memory would provide a lasting tribute,’’ Moberg said. Board members signaled support and offered assistance with installation; the motion to approve passed on a voice vote.

On permitting, the board voted to grant a one-day liquor permit for Park & Rec’s "Rock into Summer" event on July 11 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., and agreed to waive the permit fee for this town-sponsored event. Members discussed security, vendor oversight and precedent for future municipal events before approving the permit.

The board also debated the state Cannabis Reform options and, after discussion about enforceability of delivery restrictions, agreed to submit a waiver request to the state to opt out of delivery in town; staff (Brian) will draft the waiver letter. One board member said, "I'm a no delivery person," while other members agreed that seeking a waiver is the appropriate next step.

Town staff reported several contract milestones and project approvals: signed contracts and readiness to issue a notice to proceed for the Cemetery Road project (Earth Moving Solutions), and signed amended grant agreements and a notice to proceed forthcoming for the South Road Bridge contract with Northern Construction Service under the Small Bridge Grant. Staff also noted B&L Landscaping as the apparent low bidder for a mowing contract and that window bids for the senior center are due May 28.

Board members reviewed a citizen request and a highway superintendent assessment for paving Old Turnpike Road; the board discussed repurposing line items to fund a partial pavement and a new turnaround but debated whether to fund a single comprehensive repaving to avoid seams and repeat work. No final funding transfer was approved at the May 18 meeting.

What happens next: staff will draft the cannabis waiver letter, coordinate notices to proceed for the listed contracts, and return to the board with paving cost options and any draft regulatory language for water or waiver matters.