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Meeting Commencement and Public Comment (Link: 00:00:00 – 00:03:00)
The Marblehead Select Board meeting, held on July 23, 2025, commenced with a call to order by a committee member. The meeting was announced to be recorded, and the floor was opened for public comments. Nick Ward, a resident of 6 Rolleston Road, addressed the board with a request for the town staff. He urged the board to track two additional sources of expenses related to potential delays in infrastructure projects. Ward emphasized the importance of monitoring incremental capital expenditures and operational expenses that might arise from such delays. The board acknowledged his request and expressed appreciation for his input.
Town Administrator Update (Link: 00:03:00 – 00:11:00)
Thatcher Keezer, the Town Administrator, provided an update on the Elm Street Park Project. Keezer highlighted the project’s progress, noting that it is partially funded by the American Rescue Plan and neighborhood fundraising. He described a significant challenge encountered during the project: the discovery of an undocumented cistern. The cistern, built in 1858, was found to be a large structure made of granite blocks. The town successfully integrated these blocks into the park’s design, creating new staircases and seating areas. Keezer praised the collaborative efforts of the public works, community development department, and contractors in turning a problem into an enhancement for the park. Keezer also announced an upcoming event, Marine Day, as part of Marine Week in Boston, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States Marine Corps. The event, scheduled for August 21st, will include activities in Marblehead to honor its historical connection to the Marines. Keezer mentioned that further details would be shared as plans are finalized.
Discussion on Beauport Ambulance Contract (Link: 00:11:00 – 00:24:00)
The board proceeded to discuss the Beauport Ambulance contract. Keezer explained that the contract, a joint agreement with the town of Swampscott, is a zero-bid contract, meaning there is no cost to the town. The contract ensures each town will have a fully staffed Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulance available 24/7. Keezer highlighted the provision allowing either town to opt out with a six-month notice, ensuring flexibility. John Morris from Beauport Ambulance provided additional details, confirming the purchase of new ambulances and the readiness to begin service by August 15th. The contract includes performance oversight with clear standards for response times and community engagement. Beauport has committed to donating 5% of annual profits to community organizations in Marblehead and Swampscott. The board members, including a committee member, asked questions regarding response times, ambulance locations, and potential cost savings. A motion to approve the contract was unanimously passed by the board.
Approval of Second-Hand Dealer’s License (Link: 00:24:00 – 00:26:00)
The Marblehead Select Board reviewed an application for a second-hand dealer’s license submitted by Marble Custom Jewelry, located at 66 Washington Street. A representative from the business, accompanied by an associate named Graham, provided a brief overview of their operations. The business, which opened in August, specializes in estate jewelry and aims to offer services such as repurposing estate mounts. The representative highlighted the role of Graham, an in-house gemologist, in ensuring the authenticity of their products. The board expressed appreciation for the business’s contribution to the community and unanimously approved the application, subject to the receipt of required fees and forms.
Private Drain Connection and Meeting Minutes Approval (Link: 00:26:00 – 00:28:00)
The board moved on to approve a private drain connection agreement between the town and residents Doug Laros and Bella James of 18 Orchard Street. The motion was passed unanimously. Subsequently, the board addressed the approval of meeting minutes from May 28, 2025, and June 25, 2025. Due to a member not being present for the May meeting, the minutes were approved separately. Both sets of minutes were approved with unanimous consent.
Contract Approvals and Event Requests (Link: 00:28:00 – 00:31:00)
The board considered two contracts: an amendment to the Marblehead Rail Trail contract with Raphael Construction and a professional engineering services contract with Woodward and Curran Inc. Both contracts were approved unanimously. The board also approved a request from eucharun.com to hold a half marathon on April 12, 2026, subject to various conditions including police and fire department approvals. Additionally, a one-day liquor license request for the Kearsarge Lodge for events on November 7th and 8th was approved, with conditions regarding alcohol purchase and storage.
Committee Appointments and Proclamation Request (Link: 00:31:00 – 00:36:00)
The board discussed letters of interest for various committees, including Harbors and Waters, Cultural Council, and the Council on Aging. A deadline for applications was set for July 29th, with interviews to follow. The board also appointed James Zisson to the Master Plan Advisory Committee after a brief discussion on the committee’s role and responsibilities. A proclamation request for the 2025 Marblehead Forever Award was approved, with the event scheduled for July 29, 2025, at Abbott Hall.
Marine Corps Celebration and Correspondence (Link: 00:36:00 – 00:44:00)
The board discussed a recent visit from a Marine Corps delegation in preparation for a potential celebration of the Marine Corps’ birthday in Marblehead. The event, coordinated through Congressman Seth Moulton’s office, would involve a service celebration at Fort Sewall. The board considered sending a letter of thanks to the delegation for their visit and expressed interest in receiving a formal request detailing the event’s requirements. The board emphasized the importance of understanding the event’s logistics, including security and town responsibilities, before proceeding with formal approval.
Discussion on Marine Corps Celebration Planning (Link: 00:44:00 – 00:48:00)
The Marblehead Select Board continued its discussion on the potential celebration of the Marine Corps’ 250th birthday in Marblehead. A committee member expressed the importance of making the Marine Corps delegation feel welcome and acknowledged Congressman Seth Moulton’s role in facilitating the event. The board deliberated on the necessary due diligence, including understanding the costs, security requirements, and other logistical details associated with hosting the event. A committee member emphasized the need for a formal request for more detailed information about the event’s itinerary and security plans. The board agreed on the importance of sending a thank you letter to the Marine delegation, expressing their honor at being considered as a host for the celebration. The letter would also request additional information to ensure thorough planning. The board discussed the logistics of the event, noting that it would involve public safety requirements, parking restrictions, and the use of town resources for security. The police chief, fire chief, and harbor master were identified as key figures in developing an operations plan for the event. A motion was made and unanimously passed to send a thank you letter to the Marine delegation, acknowledging their visit and expressing interest in the event.
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