During a recent government meeting, community concerns regarding public safety and transparency were at the forefront of discussions. A resident raised an issue about a street light that was not replaced after an accident involving a light pole near East Main Street, highlighting potential security risks due to inadequate lighting in the public parking lot adjacent to the Historical Society. The resident also mentioned an alleyway next to a local church that has seen increased foot traffic at various hours, further emphasizing the need for improved safety measures.

Commissioner Hewitt acknowledged the importance of community input and expressed gratitude for public participation, while also recognizing the ongoing efforts of public safety teams. Commissioner Ranello encouraged residents to exercise their right to vote in the upcoming election, stressing the significance of civic engagement.

Vice Mayor Sui addressed concerns about transparency in local governance, specifically regarding a proposal to send cannabis regulations to the planning board for public hearings. He expressed surprise that a motion related to this proposal did not receive a second or a vote, suggesting that discussions around it may be postponed until after the election. Sui referenced a conversation with Commissioner Hewitt about the potential revenue from cannabis sales to support police salaries, indicating a complex interplay between public safety funding and community concerns.

The meeting concluded with a call for residents to weigh the facts and engage in discussions about local governance, underscoring the importance of transparency and community involvement in decision-making processes.