After a lengthy debate regarding committee longevity and board jurisdiction, Town Meeting approved Article 5 to establish a permanent Master Plan Committee. The new standing committee succeeds the Master Plan Implementation Committee (MPIC), which had operated for 11 years on a limited term. The new committee is tasked with monitoring the town's progress on long-term goals related to housing, traffic, and commercial growth.

The article faced opposition from Planning Board Chair Meredith Hall, who moved to amend the article to merely extend the existing committee until May 2026. Hall expressed concern over creating a permanent body in perpetuity, arguing that the Planning Board needed more time to work with new town staff and counsel to evaluate the committee's charge. However, several members, including Regina Campbell Malone and Aqua Ebong, spoke against the delay, arguing that the MPIC members were ready to transition and that the town needed a dedicated, forward-looking body.

A motion by Diane Agustinino to refer the article back to the Planning Board failed 47-150, and Hall’s amendment to delay also failed 49-147. A successful amendment was introduced by Lorie Stillman to include a requirement for a Public Health Professional to be among the expertise considered for committee membership. Despite the Planning Board declining to recommend the final version, Town Meeting moved forward with the permanent designation.

Motion: To establish a standing Master Plan Committee as successor to the MPIC, with terms and membership as set forth in the warrant (green sheet) and including the requirement for public health expertise.

Vote: Passed 164-27-0