The Finance Committee meeting held on September 24, 2025, in Millis, Massachusetts, focused on two primary topics: the ongoing issues with streetlight repairs and the need for updated zoning bylaw software.

During the meeting, committee members discussed the frequent damage to streetlights near the police station, which have been hit multiple times. The cost of replacing these lights, estimated at $7,000 to $9,000 each, has raised concerns about the financial burden on the town. While LED bulbs have been installed to save on energy costs, the committee acknowledged that the ongoing repairs could lead to a reevaluation of the streetlight placement in the future. However, moving the lights would be prohibitively expensive due to the need to relocate electrical conduits and lift panels.

The second major topic was the Planning Board's request for funding to acquire software for updating the town's zoning bylaws. Currently, the bylaws are maintained in a poorly formatted Word document, which complicates updates and increases the risk of legal issues. The proposed software, Ecode 360, would allow for a more efficient and legally sound method of managing the bylaws, including a searchable database for residents and officials. The initial cost for the software is $16,500, with an annual maintenance fee of approximately $1,000. The Planning Board emphasized the importance of having accurate and up-to-date bylaws to prevent potential legal liabilities and ensure proper town planning.

The committee plans to present the software funding request at the upcoming town meeting, highlighting the long-term benefits of improved accessibility and accuracy in the town's zoning regulations. Overall, the discussions underscored the town's commitment to maintaining infrastructure and ensuring legal compliance in its governance.