Stoughton residents seeking a resolution to the ongoing friction between the town and Stoughton Media Access Corporation (SMAC) will have to wait a bit longer as officials pursue a potential settlement. During its meeting on October 23, the Select Board prioritized litigation strategy regarding the media entity before briefly opening and then immediately continuing a scheduled public hearing to allow both parties more time to negotiate.

The evening began with the board immediately pivoting into a closed-door session to address the legal complexities of the relationship with SMAC. Chair Stephen Cavey emphasized the necessity of the private discussion, stating, We are moving to enter Executive Session under Section 21A3, to discuss strategy with respect to litigation concerning the Stoddard Media Access Corporation. An open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the negotiating or litigating position of the board. Motion Made by [Unidentified Member] to enter Executive Session under Section 21A3 to discuss strategy with respect to litigation concerning the Stoddard Media Access Corporation. — Motion Passed (5-0).

Upon returning to the public session, the board transitioned to the continuation of a public hearing that originally began on October 9. Following board tradition, Cavey handed the gavel to Vice Chair Debra Roberts to preside over the hearing process. Roberts noted that behind-the-scenes communication between the town and SMAC had intensified in the weeks following the initial hearing. Motion Made by D. Roberts to resume the public hearing. — Motion Passed (5-0).

According to Roberts, the media corporation specifically requested a sit-down between the primary stakeholders to see if the legal disputes could be resolved without further litigation. Since the October 9th public hearing, representatives of the Select Board and representatives of SMAC have conferred on several occasions, Roberts explained to the public. As a result of that, SMAC requested a meeting of the principals to see what, if anything, can be done towards a resolution. It is in the best interest of the parties and the people of Stoughton to give this time.

While the board did not deliberate on the specifics of the SMAC agreement during the open session, the decision to delay the hearing signals a shift toward mediation. This move aligns with the board's recent efforts to finalize long-standing town contracts and infrastructure projects while managing the town's legal liabilities. The public hearing will remain open as both legal teams attempt to draft a formal resolution that could eventually define the future of public access television in Stoughton.