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Meeting Opening and Public Comment (Link: 00:00:00 – 00:06:00)
Chair Dan Fox called the September 10th meeting to order and announced that the meeting was being recorded. He asked speakers to limit public comments to around two minutes due to a lengthy agenda.
Eileen Haley Mathew of 44 Longview Drive spoke about Marblehead becoming a Green Community. She explained that 298 of 351 Massachusetts communities have already joined Green Community programs since 2009 and received grants. Mathew stated that Marblehead could access $150,000 in the first year and up to $250,000 in each subsequent grant cycle, which occurs twice yearly, totaling $1,125,000 over five years. She noted this funding would pay for projects that taxpayers would otherwise fund, such as renovating and insulating Mary Alley, updating its heating system, and installing energy-efficient systems at the community center and schools.
Mathew explained that Marblehead’s Green Community status is at risk due to non-compliance with 3A, but urged the Select Board to take preparatory steps. She outlined three criteria requiring Select Board action: adopting a policy to purchase low or zero emission vehicles for the municipal fleet where possible, adopting a policy committing to 20% energy reduction over five years in municipal buildings and fleet, and sending a letter of support to the Municipal Light Board requesting they take necessary steps for Green Community status once 3A compliance is achieved. She noted the energy reduction goal aligns with the net zero by 2040 roadmap the Select Board adopted in 2023.
Albert Jordan of Roosevelt Avenue expressed opposition to the Green Community initiative, warning taxpayers that their electric bills would increase through assessments to fund the program. He emphasized that the money is not truly free since ratepayers would fund it annually. Jordan noted that once the town starts accepting the money, they would have to repay it if they wanted to exit the program. He mentioned that he had voted for an override at town meeting to update the Mary Alley heating system and that schools were already being made more energy efficient. Jordan criticized the Municipal Light Board, stating he had tried to contact them for three months without receiving callbacks from three of the five members.
Fox noted that the zero emission vehicle policy Mathew mentioned was on the evening’s agenda. After confirming no additional public comments in person or online, Fox closed the public comment period.
Joint Meeting Setup and School Committee Appointment Interviews (Link: 00:06:00 – 01:15:00)
The school committee called their meeting to order for a joint meeting with the select board to appoint someone to fill the vacant seat left by Mr. Oda. Chair Fox explained the process would involve interviewing candidates one at a time in alphabetical order, with uninterviewed candidates waiting outside. He requested answers be limited to about two minutes and noted that Jim Zisson had recused himself, leaving eight voting members instead of nine.
Melissa Koukas was interviewed first. She explained her decision to apply was based on being a parent of three young children who recently entered Marblehead Public Schools and her professional background as a chief financial officer with 18 years of finance and accounting experience. Her top priorities would be financial management and transparency for taxpayers, long-term planning to be more proactive rather than reactive, restoring trust with the community after last fall’s events, and improving student outcomes amid declining enrollment of 6% this year. She had reviewed about 150 of 300 slides in the FY26 budget deck and understood the $49 million budget with various offsets and outside funding. When asked about her previous strong advocacy for overrides, she stated she would need to do thorough work before committing to anything, considering it a last resort. She emphasized making data-driven decisions transparently and building bridges through clear communication of logic and rationale behind decisions.
Sarah Fox was interviewed second. She explained her decision to apply was based on knowing the uphill battle facing the committee, particularly with collective bargaining projections showing about a $3 million deficit next year. She emphasized her extensive budget experience, having been on the budget subcommittee for five years and often chairing it. Fox detailed her role in bringing transparency to the budget process, including showing grants and revolving funds in the budget book. She noted the unprecedented declining enrollment of over 6.5% and advocated for a zero-based budget approach. She stressed the need for someone who could start on day one with historical knowledge and certifications, particularly given the short timeframe before potential override discussions. Fox emphasized her commitment to answering concerns from override opponents rather than ignoring them.
Yael Shmulewitz was interviewed third. She explained her motivation was having three children in public schools and wanting to fight against discrimination and antisemitism, which she identified as a major problem requiring consistent policies and consequences across all schools. She also wanted to address substance abuse issues following recent tragic incidents. Her priorities included infrastructure improvements, applying for more grants including from nonprofits for anti-discrimination work, and long-term planning for issues like roof repairs, technology updates, and AI integration. She emphasized her legal background as a municipal attorney advising school committees and select boards, and her commitment to fact-based decision making. Shmulewitz stressed the importance of bringing the community together and promoting civil discourse rather than divisive rhetoric.
Mark Swartz was interviewed last. He explained his decision was based on his belief that Marblehead must provide every student with academic excellence, safety, support, and opportunities to thrive. With over 15 years of classroom teaching experience and his oldest child entering kindergarten next year, he emphasized understanding the responsibility of educating children. His background included building curricula, managing programs and budgets, and strategic initiatives requiring collaboration. He identified current budget challenges including a $2 million shortfall and significant out-of-district placement costs. Swartz emphasized the importance of transparency and communication, suggesting ideas like a simple blog to explain committee decisions and processes to the community. He prioritized student mental health and well-being, and expressed interest in strengthening peer mentoring programs and family involvement.
After interviews concluded, Fox explained the voting process would involve roll call nominations, requiring five votes for appointment, with subsequent rounds dropping the lowest vote-getter if no majority was achieved. A committee member thanked all candidates and emphasized they were appointing based on who had the best skills to step into the role mid-year and handle the challenging budget cycle ahead. In the roll call vote, Melissa Koukas received six votes and Mark Swartz received one vote. A motion was made to appoint Koukas to the school committee, which passed unanimously. Fox informed Koukas she could contact Kyle about getting sworn in.
Committee Appointments and Volunteer Recognition (Link: 01:15:00 – 01:16:00)
A committee member thanked all the candidates who came before them that evening and volunteered to serve, acknowledging that it is challenging and difficult but expressing appreciation for their willingness to step forward.
Chair Fox asked if the school committee wanted to close anything. A motion was made to adjourn the school committee meeting, which was seconded and passed unanimously. The school committee meeting was declared adjourned.
Fox thanked everyone for coming and participating, then announced a five-minute recess to allow for rearrangement.
Municipal Staff Accomplishments and Updates (Link: 01:16:00 – 01:20:00)
A committee member reported on recent accomplishments within the town’s finance department regarding professional development. Treasure collector Cammie Inarelli successfully passed the Massachusetts Collectors and Treasurers Association collector exam on her first try, becoming a fully certified Massachusetts certified collector. The speaker noted this was not an easy feat and compared it to passing the bar exam, emphasizing that having certified and trained staff helps the town conduct its business more effectively.
Victoria Boskarate, the assistant assessor in the assessing office, completed the Massachusetts Association of Assessing Officers annual summer school, getting through the principles of assessing procedures. The speaker noted that assessing functions involve extensive training and are not simple, calling this accomplishment significant for enhancing the town’s financial functions.
The police department received notification of re-accreditation, which involves an intense evaluation process of all policies, procedures, record keeping, and maintaining professional standards. The speaker indicated this occurs on a three-year cycle and noted there would be a formal recognition in October, congratulating both the project officers who did the detailed work and the department as a whole for meeting the standards.
The police department also received a grant of $121,300 to support the work of mental health clinician Gina Rabbit. The speaker explained that this grant program to support mental health clinicians affiliated with police departments had been cut at the state level, but Representative Armini and Senator Crichton helped secure the funding after Chief contacted them for assistance. The speaker expressed pleasure with the work of local legislators in continuing support for the police department’s mental health work.
The speaker then mentioned providing an update on street utility projects as requested by the chair and others, noting they would put up a slide to accompany the summary.
Street and Utility Infrastructure Projects Update (Link: 01:20:00 – 01:31:00)
After some technical difficulties with the presentation equipment, a committee member provided an update on street utility projects using a slide presentation. The speaker outlined four major categories of ongoing projects, noting that while the work is painful during progress, it provides significant benefits to the community when completed.
The first category involves pedestrian ADA ramp improvements. The speaker, identifying as the ADA coordinator, emphasized the importance of addressing non-compliant crosswalks that present significant challenges for wheelchair users. Current work areas include Atlantic Avenue, West Shore Drive, Pleasant Street, Tedesco and Humphrey Streets, and Lafayette Street, though this represents only highlights of the total work being done.
Paving projects constitute the second category, with full depth reclamation paving scheduled to begin September 15th for West Street, Mystic Street, and Florence Street. The speaker explained that full depth reclamation involves removing the entire road infrastructure and rebuilding it completely, emphasizing that paving over compromised underlying base is wasteful. This approach puts roads in the top category for lifecycle management, requiring regular surface sealing for maintenance.
Water system upgrades represent the third category, with major projects on Pleasant Street and Gary Street. The Pleasant Street water utility improvements are scheduled for completion by early October, after which work will shift to Gary Street from October through December. The speaker stressed the importance of upgrading underground infrastructure before surface improvements to avoid wasting money on new roads over old pipes.
Gas utility upgrades form the fourth category, with projects planned for Conant, Winthrop, Prospect, Atlantic, and Gary Streets. These underground infrastructure improvements must be completed before public works can proceed with surface work.
Chair Fox asked about paving timelines, specifically for Pleasant Street and Washington Street. Amy, a staff member, explained that Pleasant Street is one of the more complex projects, using Mystic Street as an example of the typical three-year timeline from start to finish. The process involves gas company work, sewer video inspection, water system upgrades, waiting through a freeze-thaw cycle for settling, and finally reclamation and new sidewalk installation.
Amy detailed that they typically wait about a year after utility work is completed before paving to ensure proper settling through freeze-thaw cycles. She noted this would be Marblehead’s first reclamation project since 2010, explaining that while the process will be dirty for a couple of weeks with residents driving on dirt roads, the final result will be a solid, finished road that cures like a regular road rather than chip sealing.
The discussion covered coordination challenges, with Amy explaining that water work must be done in summer while gas work can continue year-round. They coordinate around schools and businesses, with recent Pleasant Street work completed before July 4th and school connections scheduled for Sundays to avoid disrupting farmers markets and school operations. She mentioned waiting for water quality test results to return schools to regular water service.
Amy described the complexity of Washington Street improvements, noting that while water work is complete, gas company work continues toward Hoover Street where cast iron pipes remain. She explained they try to coordinate street and sidewalk work simultaneously using contractors, while also having separate sidewalk contracts for ADA ramp installations focusing on easier locations without trees or complex intersections.
Fox asked about public access to project information, and Amy offered to provide a list of streets completed using Article 11 funding and to post it on the website. She displayed a visual showing current work areas with three gas company crews, one water crew, and paving contractors beginning September 15th, followed by sidewalk contractors at month’s end. Amy noted that Article 11 funding provided significant momentum for street improvements since 2020, and praised the gas company for providing three crews and working cooperatively to avoid slowing down paving projects.
Historic Bell Rotation Request (Link: 01:31:00 – 01:34:00)
A committee member introduced an item comparing the need to rotate car tires for even wear to a historic rotation request, asking the fire chief to explain the situation regarding rotating tires in their cars. After some clarification that this was a request requiring select board permission rather than a public service announcement, the fire chief explained the issue.
The fire chief described that the bell in the clock tower is struck every day on the hour by a brass hammer in the same location. Over many years, this repeated striking in the same spot can cause the bell to fatigue, lose its tone, and possibly crack. He noted that according to the bell’s history, it is supposed to be rotated periodically.
Barry Welder, identified as a steeple jack with the appropriate background and familiarity to perform the work, is available to rotate the bell but requires select board permission to proceed. Chair Fox compared this to the annual turning of the USS Constitution. The fire chief explained the process involves loosening a large retaining nut that has been sprayed for several months, rotating the bell, and tightening it back up.
The fire chief requested approval for rotating the bell to give Welder permission to perform the work. A committee member noted the bell had not been rotated in 140 years, while the fire chief indicated it had not been rotated since he had been around and pointed out serious wear marks on the bell. When asked about potential tone changes, the fire chief assured that rotation would not change the bell’s tone.
A motion was made to give permission to rotate the bell in the clock tower, which passed unanimously. The fire chief expressed that the crank should be very happy and could proceed to rotate the bell. Chair Fox noted appreciation for being part of this historic maintenance decision before moving to the next agenda item regarding an update from the Marble Rev250 committee.
Marblehead 250th Anniversary Committee Update (Link: 01:34:00 – 01:40:00)
Donald A. Dolliver Sr. of 7 Westminster Road provided an update on Marblehead 250, noting that last year had an outstanding turnout and explaining that the Revolutionary War spans seven to eight years, making this the second year of planning. The main event will take place September 20th and 21st from roughly 10 AM to 4 PM, with some exceptions to the schedule.
Dolliver distributed printed booklets that will be available at the Jeremiah Lee Mansion, containing information about different locations and events. He emphasized the significance of September 1775 for Marblehead, when the Hannah was commissioned by General George Washington, marking what he described as the 250th anniversary of the birthplace of the American Navy.
The Fame schooner will be brought to the Landing on both Saturday and Sunday between 9 AM and 10:15 AM for free public boarding. The Fame’s construction closely resembles the Hannah, a heel tapper schooner, and crew members from Glover’s regiment will be present to provide descriptions. From 10:15 AM to 11:45 AM, paid cruises will be available for $50 per person with advance reservations required through the Fame, with proceeds funding future Marblehead Revolutionary War events.
The Fame is sponsored by the Marblehead Historic Commission and the Shattuck Fund, and Dolliver noted they are working with a limited budget, comparing this to conditions during the Revolutionary War. The committee has added student involvement by offering service hour credit slips to any students who attend the two-day event, which teachers can choose to accept for credit.
Dolliver mentioned that planning for 2026 events has already begun. Chair Fox noted that information is available at www.marbleheadmhd250.com, which contains all event details and times. Dolliver also shared that he had participated in a WBC television interview at Fort Sewell on Monday morning at 9:30 AM, along with Larry Sands representing Glover’s regiment, with the segment scheduled to air between 5 AM and 7 AM the following day.
A committee member sought clarification about the Fame schedule, and Dolliver confirmed that free boarding runs from 9 AM to 10:15 AM, while the paid 90-minute cruise begins at 10:15 AM. When asked about the cruise destination, Dolliver simply responded “out and back,” comparing it to what the Hannah would have done historically.
Overhanging Sign Application for Farine Bakery (Link: 01:40:00 – 01:43:00)
Chair Fox introduced Suzanne Nodine, apologizing for potentially mispronouncing her name, and welcomed her to present her overhanging sign application. Nodine identified herself as the graphic designer and sign designer for her client, the new bakery at 164 Washington Street on the corner of Darling Street.
Nodine presented the proposed sign design, seeking permission and approval to fabricate, build, and hang the sign. The sign measures 22 inches wide by 23 inches high and will be made of wood locally. It will be hung with a wrought iron bracket perpendicular to the building, with the lowest part positioned eight feet from the ground for adequate clearance. The two-sided sign will feature deep red, yellow, and cream colors.
Nodine provided liability insurance documentation showing coverage of $1 million with an aggregate of $2 million, which she emphasized was important for the board’s consideration. She showed visual simulations of how the sign would appear both from the street and when walking into the building, noting its historic appeal.
When asked about the inspiration for the sign’s shape, Nodine explained that it came from Laurent, the bakery owner who is from France. The design reflects the region where the bread is made and is indicative of the Middle Ages time period, which informed the symbolism. She mentioned having worked on the business card design the previous year using similar elements.
Chair Fox jokingly asked if she brought bread, then withdrew the comment citing potential bribery concerns. After confirming that all required documentation was in the packet and noting he didn’t want to be the person to deny a sign to Farine, Fox made a motion to approve the application for Farine artisanal French bread at 146 Washington Street for an overhanging sign, subject to approval from the Old and Historic Districts Commission, signed permit, and receipt of required insurance. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
Nodine expressed that she didn’t mind waiting through the entire meeting, and Fox welcomed her to return anytime, suggesting there were many boards she could volunteer for.
Brothers Consignment Business License and Sign Applications (Link: 01:43:00 – 01:46:00)
Chair Fox welcomed Kathleen Doyle from Brothers Consignment, apologizing for the wait and noting she was there for both a secondhand dealer’s license and an overhanging sign application. Doyle explained she would like to open a men’s consignment store at 180 Washington Street and jokingly apologized for not bringing any papers, unlike previous presenters.
Fox noted they had a picture of the proposed sign, which Doyle described as round and 24 inches in size. When asked about building department review requirements, Fox clarified that the sign approval would be subject to those reviews. Doyle mentioned that when installing the sign, they would measure clearance at the location, noting there were already existing holes but ensuring the sign would be positioned high enough to avoid people bumping into it.
Fox confirmed that both the building department and building commission would need to approve the sign installation and help with the process. A motion was made to approve the application from Brothers Consignment at 180 Washington Street for a secondhand dealer’s license, subject to receipt of required documents, fees, and CORI approval. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
A separate motion was made to approve the application from Brothers Consignment at 180 Washington Street for an overhanging sign, subject to approval from the Old and Historic Districts Commission, signed permit, and receipt of required insurance. This motion was also seconded and passed unanimously. Fox wished Doyle good luck and mentioned he would visit the store.
Cultural Council Appointment (Link: 01:46:00 – 01:47:00)
Chair Fox welcomed Steve McClure and explained that he was there for the Cultural Council, noting that the committee has multiple vacancies and is an at-large committee with three-year terms. Fox asked McClure to tell them about himself and why he was applying.
McClure identified himself as an artist who runs the Willie Shaker Gallery in town, where he shows both his own work and other people’s work. He mentioned that the gallery offers kids programming and that he teaches classes at the library, describing his involvement in arts and elevating the arts in the area.
After confirming there were no questions for McClure, Fox thanked him for volunteering and specifically acknowledged his work with kids at the gallery. A motion was made to appoint Steve McClure to the Cultural Council with a term to expire in June 2028. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
Old Historic Districts Commission Appointments (Link: 01:47:00 – 01:49:00)
Chair Fox explained the first appointment was administrative, involving Duncan Facey who should have been reappointed in June. Fox noted that Facey had been appointed as an alternate and they were moving him up to full member status. A motion was made to reappoint Duncan Facey to the Old Historic Districts Commission as a full member with a term to expire in June 2026. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
Fox then called for Michael Hall, who was present for an alternate member position on the Old Historic Districts Commission with a one-year term. Fox asked Hall to tell them about himself and why he was applying.
Hall explained that historic architecture has always interested him and that he studied it, holding a master’s degree in historic preservation from the University of Edinburgh. He described serving on several historic district boards and helping to lobby and establish one in Augusta, Maine, where he previously lived. While working for Waterville, he served as staff and wrote bylaws for the Waterville Historic Preservation Commission, processing all applications that came through.
Hall stated that this work is something he loves to do and was part of what brought him to Marblehead, expressing his appreciation for the historic architecture and noting that he lives in Old Town. Fox thanked Hall and noted they had read his cover letter. A motion was made to approve Michael Hall to the Old Historic Districts Commission as an alternate member with a term to expire in June 2026. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
Coffin School Reuse Project Update (Link: 01:49:00 – 01:57:00)
Chair Fox called for an update on the Coffin School reuse project from Brendan, joking that he wouldn’t thank him for waiting since he was on the payroll. Brendan reported that the project remains on the previously discussed schedule and that expressions of interest from municipal departments were issued at the end of August, with responses due September 26th.
Brendan explained the next steps in the process, beginning with an abutter meeting for direct property abutters to inform them of the process and gather input before major public engagement. He indicated plans to send out a draft letter before the end of the week and schedule the meeting before the end of the month. The town has created a website page for the project, though minimal material is currently posted.
A request for information (RFI) will be issued to gather input from potential developers, nonprofits, and anyone with interest in the property, likely going out before the end of the month and remaining open for 30 days. Following the abutter meeting and while the RFI is active, the first public meeting will be held in early October, with location, time, and date to be determined.
After the first public meeting, responses from both the expressions of interest and RFIs will be collected to gauge interest from municipal departments and outside developers. A second public meeting will be held to gather final input and potentially begin determining the direction for the site, though no determination has been made at this point. Following the second public meeting in November, the select board will hopefully make a decision on how to proceed, with an ideal timeline of issuing an RFP in January, though other factors may affect this timeline.
A committee member asked for clarification about the distinct abutter meeting, and Brendan confirmed it would be separate from the October and November public meetings. He explained they have the abutter list ready and a drafted letter, needing only to finalize the date. Abutters will receive over two weeks notice and be asked to RSVP, with the meeting planned as in-person but with a hybrid option for those unable to attend.
When asked about meeting facilitation, Brendan confirmed it would be handled by professional staff within the department. Discussion arose about the format of the first public meeting, with references to the Gary School process that used community input with voting dots on preferred ideas. Brendan noted the previous Coffin School process focused on housing and would likely do so again, but they want to gather broad input.
A committee member suggested looking at the Gary School process as a model, noting it had good objective criteria. Fox mentioned the existing reuse study done for the Coffin School would be posted on the website if not already there. Discussion highlighted that the previous study by MAPC wasn’t broadly socialized and was presupposed for a specific use, unlike the Gary School process that started from ground zero with various community suggestions.
Fox emphasized the need for maximum public input and consideration of all possibilities, starting with municipal expressions of interest. A committee member stressed the importance of structured conversation including financial and fiscal criteria to address reality alongside other options. Brendan agreed to develop a work plan over the coming weeks to guide the entire process.
A committee member suggested that a select board member attend the abutter meeting alongside Brendan, noting it would be helpful to hear firsthand input from those most impacted by the project. Fox agreed this would be beneficial and indicated they would coordinate schedules once the date is set.
Zero Emissions Vehicle Policy Adoption (Link: 01:57:00 – 02:00:00)
Chair Fox introduced the zero emissions vehicle policy agenda item, noting they had reviewed it at the previous meeting and that Logan was present to answer any specific questions. Logan explained that the only changes since the last meeting were corrections to grammatical and spelling errors, which Kyle had identified.
Logan recapped that the policy had been reviewed by town department heads, brought to Town Administrator level, and reviewed by the CFO, making it ready for adoption. He noted the policy supports the net zero plan and was a specific goal outlined in the 2023 plan. Additionally, the policy helps the town eventually apply for Green Communities designation, which he noted had generated public excitement based on the evening’s public comment.
Fox emphasized that emergency vehicles and heavy equipment are excluded from the policy because such vehicles are not readily available and it would not be functionally appropriate. A committee member noted the policy is geared toward light vehicles and includes language about feasibility, preventing the town from being locked into purchasing something functionally or financially inappropriate while encouraging movement in that direction when feasible.
Fox agreed the policy allows significant flexibility. Logan acknowledged he couldn’t take full credit for the policy, noting they had copied heavily from the town of Concord’s policy. A motion was made to adopt the Town of Marblehead Zero Emissions Vehicles First Procurement Policy as presented. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
Fox then announced the next agenda item as a continuation of a public hearing from November 13th, 2024, regarding the revocation of the wine and malt beverage license held by Shin Dynasty at 1 Atlantic Avenue. He welcomed Alexander back and asked for an update from the previous meeting.
Shin Dynasty Liquor License Hearing Continuation (Link: 02:00:00 – 02:05:00)
Alexander reported on progress at Shin Dynasty, noting that their landlord was also present. He explained that he had been visiting the site several times per week to monitor work progress and was pleased to find people working there consistently. Alexander reported seeing materials for walls and ceilings during his afternoon visit, indicating significant progress.
When asked about fireproofing between units, Alexander confirmed that the firewall had been installed on the floor level, with materials ready for basement installation and completion through to the roof nearly finished. The door had been framed out and installed, with the electrician scheduled to arrive that week after pulling the electric permit the previous week. Alexander expected the door to be electrified by the end of the week or the following week.
Regarding completion timeline, Alexander reported that the contractor estimated two to three months for all work completion, with the landlord’s responsibilities expected to finish within the next few weeks. He noted that inspections were already beginning to expedite the process.
A committee member explained there were two separate deadlines to consider: one for the current hearing regarding the existing license, and another for the annual license renewal cycle. The committee member noted that under ABCC requirements, all inspections must be completed by November 30th for license renewal eligibility, emphasizing this was a tight deadline that applied to all liquor establishments.
Chair Fox clarified that the November 30th deadline was outside their control and would be the absolute deadline regardless of any hearing continuations. A committee member asked about the voting timeline, and it was explained that inspection results must be available by November 30th to inform the board’s December decisions on license approvals for the new year.
Alexander expressed optimism about meeting the deadline, noting the consistent daily work activity he had observed. Fox suggested continuing the hearing until October 8th for another update, allowing two more meetings to assess progress. The motion to continue the hearing to October 8th was made, seconded, and passed unanimously, with Fox noting he hoped Alexander would report permit sign-off on the common area work at that time.
Cannabis Social Equity Policy Discussion (Link: 02:05:00 – 02:09:00)
Town Administrator Thatcher Keezer provided an update on Cannabis Control Commission requirements, explaining that Chapter 180 of the Acts of 2022 requires municipalities to establish a process for cannabis social equity. He noted the town can implement this either by bylaw or policy, and they are choosing to proceed by policy.
Keezer explained that no vote was required that evening, following his practice of presenting policies at one meeting and allowing time for review before voting at a subsequent meeting. The policy establishes processes for renewing host community agreements, with one expiring in November 2026 and another in April 2027.
The policy addresses social equity issues by providing advantages to certain classes of applicants, including social equity applicants from disadvantaged communities, communities disproportionately impacted by drug convictions, and women-owned and veteran-owned businesses. Keezer explained this approach aims to lower barriers of entry for these categories rather than favoring only fully funded, large corporation applications in the relatively new industry.
The ultimate requirement mandates that the town must have at least one applicant or host community agreement meeting these criteria before allowing others. With only two agreements currently, if the town doesn’t already have one qualifying agreement when renewals come due, they must keep the application process open for six months for qualifying applicants before considering other applicants, while still ensuring one out of two meets the criteria.
Keezer mentioned needing to verify whether the recent transaction from Seven Sisters to another entity with initials KCC or KSS might qualify under one of the social equity categories. When Chair Fox asked about their other agreement, Keezer indicated it didn’t appear to qualify based on his license review but noted he could investigate further. Fox indicated they would likely review the policy at the next meeting.
Consent Agenda Items (Link: 02:09:00 – 02:09:00)
Chair Fox called for a motion to approve consent agenda items, including amendments dated 08-28-2025 and Old Townhouse Marblehead Museum dated 10-18-2025. When Fox asked for clarification about what Old Townhouse referred to, a committee member explained it was subject to the usual rules and regulations.
Fox clarified that the Old Townhouse Marblehead Museum item for 10-18-2025 was subject to usual rules, regulations, fees paid to the town, and receipt of required certificate of insurance. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously. Fox then moved to the next agenda item regarding the Demera demo agreement lease.
Electric Minibus Demo Lease Agreement (Link: 02:09:00 – 02:14:00)
Chair Fox called Logan back to present the Demera demo agreement lease, with a committee member noting Logan had done the hard work on this project and showing an image of the vehicle. Logan explained the lease request was for a Demera e Jest minibus electric vehicle, developed through collaboration with the Council on Aging.
Logan described that the Council on Aging currently operates four gas-fueled minibuses for transportation and meal services and has expressed interest in electric alternatives. After reaching out to Demera, their sales staff offered a one-month lease at no cost, with the town’s only expense being insurance coverage during the trial period.
The vehicle would serve as a replacement for current vehicles, making trips both within town and to out-of-town destinations like doctor’s appointments and grocery stores. Logan highlighted key benefits including approximately 130 miles of range per battery charge, which would be sufficient for the town’s four square miles, and a low floor design that provides easier access for people with disabilities, wheelchair users, and those with difficulty navigating steps.
Logan mentioned plans for a public engagement event to showcase the vehicle to residents, with tentative scheduling for early October. When asked about charging infrastructure, Logan explained they would use the Mary Alley charger, similar to the arrangement for the school department’s new electric Ford E Transit van until their own charger is installed.
Fox asked about school department interest in viewing the vehicle, and Logan confirmed he had offered them the opportunity. Regarding drivers, Logan noted he had spoken with the driver coordinator who expressed excitement about the trial. The vehicle has a capacity of 10 seats with room for about 15 people when additional folding seats are used, comparable to their current shuttle buses that typically seat 10 to 15 people.
A motion was made to approve the lease agreement between the town and Demera Bus USA LLC to lease the Demera EJA electric minibus for one month as presented and subject to town counsel review. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
Administrative Approvals and Announcements (Link: 02:14:00 – 02:23:00)
Chair Fox presented a request for the annual cleanup of the railroad right of way known as Roundhouse Road, requiring a no parking tow zone area for October 20th from 7 AM to 3 PM with a rain date of October 21st. A motion was made to approve the request from Public Works Director Amy McHugh to temporarily make the entirety of the railroad right of way from School Street through to Bessem Street, as well as upper Anderson Street from number 10 Anderson through to Bessem Street, a no parking tow zone area for the specified dates and times to facilitate the annual cleanup and repair of town property. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
Fox then presented a one-day liquor license request from Bubble Bar Boston for the Lee Mansion on October 4th from noon to 3 PM. The motion included standard conditions requiring a $50 fee, proof of authorized alcohol purchase source, proper delivery and storage capabilities, and specified that alcohol would be purchased from Martinetti Liquors. A roll call vote was conducted with all members voting in favor.
Fox announced the September 11th commemoration of the 2001 terrorist attacks, scheduled for the following day at 10 AM at Memorial Park. The event, hosted by the Marblehead Fire and Police Departments with local leaders, would pay tribute to the nearly 3,000 lives lost including firefighters, police officers, and civilians, with the public warmly invited to join in remembrance and reflection.
A committee member brought attention to the Lynnway Multimodal Corridor project, a $20 million grant-funded project to improve bus, pedestrian, and biking experiences. The member expressed concern about the proposed removal of lanes on both sides for dedicated bus lanes, noting that previous lane closures on the Lynnway had created significant traffic backups affecting commuters from Marblehead, Swampscott, and Nahant. An information session was scheduled at Abbott Library the following Wednesday from 12:30 to 2 PM, though the member noted the timing was inconvenient for Boston commuters.
The committee member requested permission to connect with Swampscott and Nahant boards to ensure advocacy for their commuters who would be impacted by the project, emphasizing this would not be obstructionist but aimed at having a voice in the process. Fox supported this approach, noting residents already complained about traffic delays from current lane closures and the importance of timely commuting to Boston. A committee member mentioned they had reached out to Jenny’s office that morning and would post the flyer on the website, with plans to attend the Wednesday meeting.
Grader congratulated Captain Grader and the Marine garrison at Fort Sewell for their recent event on the 21st, noting it exceeded expectations and came off extremely well. He thanked Town Administrator Keezer, Chief Gilliland, and Chief King for pulling the event together quickly and safely with short notice. Grader mentioned the Marines felt extremely welcome and participated in various activities including a cake cutting ceremony, flyover, and silent drill platoon performance.
Fox praised the amazing turnout given the less than two-week lead time and noted how well the event fit the venue despite initial concerns about space. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, which was seconded and passed unanimously.
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