Blandford Select Board Approves Landslide Entry Agreement, Eyes Sprinkler Repair

BLANDFORD — April 8, 2024 — Blandford Select Board approves landslide right-of-entry and flags mounting municipal repair costs. The board voted unanimously Monday to approve a right-of-entry agreement for 75 Russell Stage Road, allowing the town to stabilize a landslide on privately held conservation land without a full town meeting vote. Highway Superintendent Dave told the board that emergency road work on the slide has cost approximately $14,800 so far, with crews returning Tuesday to seed and cover the repaired slope. Separately, the board directed the town administrator to seek a second quote on sprinkler system repairs at town hall after receiving a $5,460 bid — the system last serviced five years ago — following a 3 a.m. emergency shutdown caused by a faulty flow indicator. The board also asked Town Accountant Sarah to investigate a possible $7,000 bookkeeping discrepancy in the Robert Arms Bicentennial trust fund, where historical records suggest $22,500 in contributions that current balances do not fully reflect. The next building committee meeting, focused on a proposed new fire station near the salt shed, is scheduled for April 18.