During the Acton Select Board meeting on September 8, 2025, a significant discussion centered around a new provision in state law that grants municipalities greater flexibility in managing local fees and exemptions. This provision allows towns like Acton to tailor their regulations regarding fees associated with property transactions, which could have a direct impact on residents and local businesses.

The board members highlighted that the law enables municipalities to decide who bears the cost of these fees—whether it be the buyer or the seller. Additionally, towns can set varying fee amounts based on the type of property involved. This flexibility is seen as a valuable tool for local governance, allowing Acton to address its unique needs and circumstances.

While the board acknowledged that the legislation does not provide immediate benefits specifically for Acton, it opens the door for future discussions on how to best implement these options once they become available. The emphasis was on the importance of local decision-making in determining the most effective strategies for managing property transactions and their associated costs.

In other discussions, the board touched on various community concerns, but the focus on the new legislative provision stood out as a potential game-changer for local governance. As Acton prepares to navigate these changes, residents can expect more tailored approaches to property fees that reflect the community's priorities and economic landscape.

The meeting underscored the ongoing commitment of the Select Board to engage with state legislation that impacts local governance, ensuring that Acton remains responsive to the needs of its residents.