Click Below for Additional Meeting Summaries
Public Comment and Meeting Introduction (Link: 00:00:00 – 00:00:00)
The Marblehead Select Board meeting commenced with an announcement that the meeting was being recorded. Chair Erin Noonan opened the floor for public comments, inviting attendees to speak at the microphone or raise their hands online. With no public comments forthcoming, the meeting proceeded to the next agenda item.
Town Administrator Update (Link: 00:00:00 – 00:00:00)
The meeting briefly paused as the Town Administrator, Thatcher Keezer, was not immediately ready to provide his update. The board decided to move forward with the agenda while he prepared.
Corinthian Yacht Club Officer Changes (Link: 00:00:00 – 00:02:00)
The board addressed the Corinthian Yacht Club’s request to change its officers and directors. Carl Rennie, the Commodore of the club, expressed gratitude to the board for acknowledging the retirement of David Titus, the club’s long-serving general manager. Rennie explained the club’s periodic leadership changes and sought the board’s approval for the submitted application. The board unanimously approved the application, pending receipt of required forms and approval from the Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission.
Fort Sewell Oversight Committee Update (Link: 00:02:00 – 00:11:00)
Larry Sands, Chair of the Fort Sewell Oversight Committee, provided an update on the committee’s activities. Sands highlighted the success of the Fort Ranger program, which allowed over 18,000 visitors to tour the fort from June to November. He discussed plans for further outreach, including school and camp group visits, and the need for a donation mechanism to support the program. Sands also outlined ongoing maintenance projects and improvements planned for the fort, including tree replacements and signage.
Introduction of Brendan Callahan, Community Development and Planning Director (Link: 00:12:00 – 00:15:00)
Brendan Callahan, the newly appointed Community Development and Planning Director, was introduced to the board. Callahan, who started his position earlier in the week, shared his first impressions of the staff and expressed enthusiasm for his new role. He mentioned his previous experience in Peabody and his long-term residence in Marblehead. The board formally appointed Callahan to his position, with a term set to expire in June 2025.
Appointment of Brendan Callahan, Community Development and Planning Director (Link: 00:15:00 – 00:15:00)
The Marblehead Select Board officially welcomed Brendan Callahan as the new Community Development and Planning Director. Callahan expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm for his new role, having recently joined the team. The board members extended their congratulations and support as Callahan began his tenure.
Update on Le Petit Comptoir Business Challenges (Link: 00:15:00 – 00:20:00)
Alexander Lewis, owner of Le Petit Comptoir, provided an update on the challenges faced by his business located at 1 Atlantic Avenue. Lewis read a letter from his landlord, Deborah A. Cotter, detailing the delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent state regulations requiring a firewall and ADA-compliant entrance. These issues have postponed the opening of his business. Lewis explained that the necessary architectural drawings have been submitted to the state, and he is awaiting approval to proceed with construction. The board expressed their support and encouragement for Lewis, acknowledging the difficulties faced by small business owners.
Discussion on Snow Emergency Parking Ban (Link: 00:20:00 – 00:33:00)
The board discussed the current snow emergency parking ban procedures with Chief Gillen and other town officials. The discussion focused on the need for flexibility in the parking ban hours, which are currently set from midnight to 7 a.m. The officials discussed the challenges of clearing snow effectively within these hours and proposed a more flexible approach based on specific storm conditions. The board considered implementing a blue light system to improve communication and enforcement of the parking ban. The officials emphasized the importance of public cooperation and proactive planning by residents to facilitate snow removal operations. The board and town officials agreed on the need for clear communication and consistent enforcement to minimize the impact on the community.
Snow Emergency Parking Ban Motion (Link: 00:33:00 – 00:35:00)
The Marblehead Select Board continued its discussion on the snow emergency parking ban. The board emphasized the importance of residents moving their vehicles off the streets during snow events to facilitate effective salting and snow removal. A motion was proposed to suspend the town’s all-night parking ban and implement a snow emergency response system. This system would allow the DPW Director, Fire Chief, and Police Chief, in coordination with the Town Administrator, to establish start and end times for snow emergencies based on weather conditions. The motion included provisions for notifying residents through various communication channels. The board unanimously approved the motion.
Community Golf Day and Bell Ringing Requests (Link: 00:35:00 – 00:36:00)
The board reviewed a letter from Tedesco Country Club, which awarded its annual complimentary golf outing to the Marblehead Counseling Center. A motion was made and approved to notify the club of this award. Additionally, a request from Judy Anderson of the Marblehead 250 Committee was approved, allowing the bells of Abbott Hall to be rung for three minutes on February 23, 2025, as part of the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution.
Consent Agenda and Revolving Accounts (Link: 00:36:00 – 00:39:00)
The board moved to approve several consent agenda items, including minutes from a previous meeting and requests for events such as the YMCA Head to the Hills 10K and the Miles for Mary 5K Walk/Run. The board also approved the reauthorization of revolving accounts for fiscal year 2026, covering various departments such as Animal Control, Council on Aging, and the Board of Health.
Sealer of Weights and Measures Appointment (Link: 00:39:00 – 00:42:00)
The board discussed the appointment of Leonard Rose as the Sealer of Weights and Measures, a role previously held by Dave Rogers. The position, now managed under the inspections department, involves ensuring the accuracy of weights and measures for consumer protection. The board unanimously approved Rose’s appointment, with his term set to expire in June 2025.
Contracts and Infrastructure Updates (Link: 00:42:00 – 00:46:00)
The board reviewed and approved several contracts related to town projects. These included the development of a bocce facility at the Marblehead Council on Aging Recreation, amendments to contracts for bicycle and bridge projects, and custodial services for the community center. The board also acknowledged letters of interest and a resignation from the Disability Commission.
Town Administrator Updates (Link: 00:46:00 – 00:57:00)
Town Administrator Thatcher Keezer provided updates on various town projects and initiatives. Keezer highlighted the Marblehead 911 Dispatch Center’s receipt of free GIS software licensing from Esri, recognizing the center’s innovative application for emergency response. He also updated the board on police department activities, including the graduation of Taylor Nolasco from the police academy and the upcoming academy start for Brandon Boudier. Keezer discussed ongoing public works projects, such as sewer main replacements and the rail trail rehabilitation, emphasizing the importance of keeping residents informed about neighborhood impacts.
Select Board Announcements (Link: 00:57:00 – 00:57:00)
The meeting concluded with an opportunity for select board members to make announcements. No additional announcements were made, and the board moved to adjourn the meeting.
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