In a debated session regarding Article 41, Town Meeting members authorized solar installations at the Animal Shelter parcel but added strict limits to protect nearby woodlands. While the original article would have allowed for solar on the 32-acre site—much of which is leased to Granite Links—members expressed concern about potential large-scale solar farms or clear-cutting.

Precinct 8 member Bill Murphy moved to amend the article to limit any solar or storage installations to the animal shelter building itself or already disturbed property adjacent to it. I'm concerned about the blank check nature of the 3-acre parcel, Murphy said. The amendment passed 150-41-3, reflecting a town-wide priority of protecting forest land while pursuing green energy.

Town Administrator Nicholas Milano clarified that the intent was always for a small installation to offset the shelter's 100% electric heating and cooling costs. Responding to safety concerns regarding battery storage, Milano noted that the town would likely pursue a small-scale setup rather than a large industrial array. The amended article passed by the required two-thirds majority.

Motion to Amend: To limit the solar installation to the animal shelter building or currently disturbed property adjacent thereto.

Vote on Article 41 as Amended: Passed 178-14-3