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Meeting Commencement and Public Comments (Link: 00:00:00 – 00:08:00)
The Select Board meeting in the town of Marblehead was called to order by Chair Erin Noonan, who announced that the meeting was being recorded. The meeting opened with a public comment session. The first speaker, identified as Deacon from 106 Atlantic Avenue, expressed gratitude towards the board for their efforts to keep the town compliant with state law, despite public criticism. Deacon emphasized the importance of the board’s judgment in maintaining the town’s best interests. Albert Jordan from 64 Roosevelt Drive voiced concerns about various town issues, including uncollected trash, financial obligations related to the school department, and the hiring of new employees. Jordan also mentioned the potential financial burden of litigation and questioned the town’s spending priorities, particularly regarding the hiring of additional personnel and the management of the transfer station. He criticized the town’s handling of trash collection and the perceived subsidization of other towns’ waste disposal needs. Elmagan from 165 Westshore Drive addressed the division within the town regarding Chapter 3A and the recent vote on Article 23. Elmagan urged the board to listen to the constituents and consider negotiating with the state to avoid non-compliance. He inquired about the board’s plans following the vote and emphasized the need for unity among residents.
Concerns Over Town Infrastructure and Spending (Link: 00:08:00 – 00:10:00)
Albert Jordan returned to the podium to express his opposition to the installation of roundabouts in Marblehead, advocating instead for simpler traffic solutions like stop signs. He criticized the potential expenditure on roundabouts and emphasized the need for practical and cost-effective traffic management solutions. Jordan also expressed frustration over the condition of the town’s roads and the allocation of grant money, suggesting that funds should be used to reduce taxes rather than on projects he deemed unnecessary.
Town Administrator Updates (Link: 00:10:00 – 00:25:00)
Town Administrator Thatcher Keezer provided updates on several issues. Keezer addressed concerns about the transfer station, clarifying that it is not accepting trash from outside Marblehead and is strictly for the benefit of town residents. He praised the efforts of the town’s staff in managing the situation. Keezer reported on the success of the recent fireworks display, thanking the fireworks committee and various town departments for their coordination and efforts in ensuring a safe and enjoyable event. He also discussed the town’s decision to enter into a new ambulance service contract with Beauport Ambulance Services, in collaboration with the town of Swampscott. The contract, which is a zero-bid agreement, is designed to improve service levels without additional cost to the towns. Keezer highlighted the importance of the cooperative effort with Swampscott and the benefits of the new arrangement.
Impact of Non-Compliance with State Law (Link: 00:25:00 – 00:26:00)
Keezer addressed the potential financial impacts of the town’s non-compliance with state law, effective July 14. He outlined the risk to various state grants totaling over $1.28 million that have been awarded but not yet contracted, as well as existing grants worth $354,792 that are potentially jeopardized. Keezer emphasized the importance of maintaining the town’s community development staff to continue pursuing projects and funding opportunities.
Commemoration of General Casimir Pulaski’s Arrival (Link: 00:26:00 – 00:35:00)
Mark Spock, President of the Polish Cultural Foundation of Boston, presented a proposal to the Marblehead Select Board regarding a commemorative event at Fort Sewell. The event, planned for the summer of 2027, aims to honor the 250th anniversary of General Casimir Pulaski’s arrival in Marblehead on July 23, 1777. Spock highlighted the historical significance of Pulaski, known as the father of the American cavalry, and his contributions to the American Revolutionary War. The commemoration seeks to celebrate Marblehead’s role in the revolution and Pulaski’s journey from France to America. Spock requested the board’s support and a point of contact within the town to facilitate planning. The board unanimously approved the request, subject to standard regulations and requirements.
Discussion on Marblehead High School Roof Contracts (Link: 00:35:00 – 00:51:00)
The Select Board then shifted focus to the Marblehead High School roof replacement project. Representatives from LeftField and Raymond Design Associates, including Michael Pifferling and Jen, discussed contract amendments for the project. The amendments cover the completion of the roof design, pre-bidding, and construction oversight. The board deliberated on two options for the roof replacement: a traditional rubber membrane and a liquid-applied membrane. The latter option could potentially save the town $1.6 million, prompting the board to consider both options for bidding. The board approved the contract amendments, increasing the contract amounts for LeftField and Raymond Design Associates, and extended the project completion date to December 31, 2026. The board emphasized the importance of due diligence and community input from subject matter experts to ensure the project’s success.
Firefighters’ Uniform Allowance Agreement (Link: 00:51:00 – 00:54:00)
During the meeting, the Select Board discussed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the firefighters regarding uniform allowances. An unidentified speaker explained that the MOU was necessary due to changes in the town’s financial system, which affected how firefighters were reimbursed for uniforms. The agreement, reached through impact bargaining, increases the uniform allowance from $901 to $1,000 effective July 1, 2025, and to $1,300 on July 1, 2026. The board approved the MOU with the International Association of Firefighters, AFL-CIO, CLC Local 2043.
Appointments and Approvals (Link: 00:54:00 – 00:57:00)
The board proceeded with several reappointments and approvals. A motion was passed to appoint Douglas Perry as a constable and John R. Floor as a temporary animal inspector, both terms expiring in June 2026. The minutes from the June 11, 2025, meeting were approved unanimously. Additionally, the board approved a request from Nancy Archer Gwynn of the Rotary Club in Marblehead to hold the annual Rotary 5K on November 2, 2025, subject to certain conditions.
Liquor Licenses and Contract Amendments (Link: 00:57:00 – 01:00:00)
The board reviewed and approved several one-day liquor licenses for the Annunciation House Complex, covering events from July 30 to December 25, 2025. They also approved a one-day liquor license for the Marblehead Little Theatre for an event on August 2, 2025. Furthermore, the board discussed a wine and malt beverage package store license application for Flores Montia at 164 Washington Street and decided to seek additional applicants before holding a public hearing. The board also approved a contract amendment with Tool Design for the Swampscott Rail Trail Engineering, reallocating funds for permitting and drainage tasks.
Trash Collection and Community Support (Link: 01:00:00 – 01:05:00)
The board addressed ongoing issues with trash collection in Marblehead. An unidentified speaker praised the efforts of Andrew Petty and the Board of Health in managing the situation, noting that Marblehead is faring better than some neighboring communities. The board discussed strategies for keeping residents informed through Code Red notifications and encouraged residents to sign up for updates. Additionally, the board commended the Clerk’s office for successfully managing an unexpected election under challenging circumstances. The meeting concluded with a suggestion to send a letter of appreciation to the festival committee for their efforts.
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