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Meeting Opening and Housekeeping (Link: 00:04:00 – 00:09:00)
Chair Katie Phelan called the September 17th Select Board meeting to order, noting that the meeting was being recorded. The board and attendees recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
Phelan made several housekeeping announcements, explaining that the meeting was taking place at the high school during curriculum night, so attendees might hear bells signaling class changes that were not related to their meeting. She noted the high attendance for curriculum night when she arrived at the parking lot. Phelan also acknowledged that it was her husband John’s birthday and thanked him for his support, referencing how the board had previously acknowledged other family members’ birthdays and recognizing the importance of the support structure that allows board members to serve.
The board proceeded with a reading of the National Hispanic Heritage Month proclamation. Vice Chair Douglas Thompson volunteered to read the proclamation, which recognized the period from September 15th through October 15th, 2025 as National Hispanic Heritage Month in Swampscott. The proclamation acknowledged the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central and South America. It noted this was the first time in the town’s history recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month and referenced the observance’s history, starting as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968 under President Lyndon Johnson and expanded in 1988 under President Ronald Reagan. The proclamation included a quote from Cesar Chavez about cultural preservation and respect, during which Thompson took a purposeful pause. It listed numerous countries in the Hispanic diaspora and encouraged local organizations, residents, businesses, and institutions to acknowledge and celebrate Hispanic contributions. The proclamation was signed by all Select Board members: Scott, Katie, David, Mary Ellen, Danielle, Thompson, and Gino.
Following the reading, Phelan emphasized that the board’s proclamations are meaningful rather than perfunctory, serving to remind people to look outside themselves and acknowledge the beauty, love, and kindness in other cultures and various struggles that affect the community. She noted that the board issues various types of proclamations, including those related to mental health awareness.
Town Administrator Report (Link: 00:09:00 – 00:28:00)
Interim Town Administrator Gino A. Cresta Jr. delivered a comprehensive report on town programs and initiatives. He began by noting that the fire department held a memorial ceremony on September 11th to honor those lost on September 11, 2001, with public and staff attendance. Cresta reported meeting with the library union for their third collective bargaining session, with future sessions on hold until the new town administrator can attend.
Cresta highlighted that Sheila Billings, with DPW staff assistance, painted a mural on the DPW garage wall facing Paradise Road, receiving positive feedback. The mural would be completed with a description reading “public works makes it happen.” Thompson identified it as depicting the “Big Blue Wave.”
Regarding trash services, Cresta reported that Teamsters and Republic Services met with a federal mediator but achieved no positive results. Republic provided expanded services including curbside yard waste pickup, though several streets were missed due to new drivers unfamiliar with routes. Residents who were missed could contact customer service or the DPW office. The DPW facility remained open for recyclable drop-off on Fridays from 3pm to 7pm and weekends from 10am to 4pm.
The DPW, with consultant Kleinfelter, applied for a $3.5 million SIRF grant to continue rehabilitating compromised sewer mains and laterals contributing to bacterial discharge at Kings Beach. Aqueous Infrastructure Management’s divers cleaned sediment from the water tank bottom, finding about a quarter inch of sediment since the last cleaning three years ago. Replay Maintenance USA repaired torn seams in the turf field at Blocksidge, and Granese and Son made sewer main repairs on Essex Street as part of the Phase 2A Stacy Brooks Sewer Main Rehabilitation Project.
For community development, Pine Street B’nai Brith submitted a comprehensive permit application to the Zoning Board and notice of intent to the Conservation Commission. The ZBA held its first public meeting on September 16th, with town staff securing funding from the Massachusetts Housing Partnership for a Chapter 40B consultant. The second Hawthorne Redevelopment public forum was scheduled for September 18th from 7pm to 10pm at the high school auditorium, featuring the latest renderings. A master plan public meeting was scheduled for October 16th at the new elementary school.
The library onboarded two new employees: Nathaniel Snow as library assistant and Whitney Wilkinson as library aide, with a Head of Technical Services position still open. Bids for the library entry redesign project opened September 12th, with MJS Construction as the apparent low bidder pending reference checks. Saturday hours resumed September 13th through May 30th, 2025, from 9am to 3pm. A Murder Mystery Program with Delvina Theater Company attracted almost 50 patrons. For National Library Card Signup Month, the library partnered with local businesses to offer discounts to cardholders.
The Health Department offered three new ARPA-funded programs: Gentle Yoga, Slow Flow and Restore Yoga, and Meditation for Adults. New programs included free support groups and group therapy for residents 18 and above through And Still We Rise. The annual High Dose Flu Clinic for ages 65 plus was scheduled for September 25th from 4pm to 6pm at the Senior Center, requiring registration.
Recreation events included the Town Wide Yard Sale on Saturday from 8am to noon with a rain date of September 27th, and the 6th Annual Porch Fest on September 20th featuring 26 locations with 35 bands. New this year was the Swampscott Doggy Dip at Eisman’s Beach. The annual Classic Car Show was scheduled for October 12th from 10am to 2pm with an October 19th rain date.
Human Resources completed a Workers Compensation Audit with Mary Ann McMaster from the Massachusetts Education and Government Association. DEI strategy sessions were in final stages with Ready Set, involving Leonard, Miriam McMaster, and Charlotte Dehurt over two Friday calls. Recent hires included the library positions mentioned and Timothy Milken as Land Use and Development Planner starting October 1st. Open positions included Town Accountant, Assistant Town Accountant, Town Assessor, Head of Library Services, and Public Safety Administrative Assistant for both police and fire departments. The Fire Department planned three to four new hires due to minimum manning requirements, while the Police Department had four vacancies.
The Police Department completed mandatory active shooter training at the former Hadley School with Max Gaspar’s assistance. Oral boards were scheduled for September 22nd with eight candidates, and a newly hired student officer would begin the NECC Academy on October 14th, 2025. Traffic calming controls were installed on Franklin Avenue at Stetson Avenue and Norfolk Avenue at Stetson Avenue to address speeding.
Cresta concluded by briefing the board on the Swampscott Police Department’s policy regarding federal immigration enforcement, stating that the department would not assist ICE or federal partners in immigration enforcement but would also not impede their operations. Police Captain Joe Cable was present to elaborate if needed.
Thompson requested additional information about immigration enforcement given recent incidents in nearby communities. Captain Cable explained that while there was no current ICE activity in Swampscott, the department had prepared policies in advance. He emphasized that the Swampscott Police Department had no role in federal immigration enforcement and would not share any immigration status information with federal agencies. Cable referenced the 2017 Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court decision in Commonwealth First Loom establishing no role for local law enforcement in civil immigration law. He explained that while federal law enforcement could not require local assistance, local police could not interfere with federal operations. Cable advised residents to call police if they witnessed any suspicious activity and to document scenes while avoiding personal intervention.
Fletcher clarified that the $3.5 million SIRF grant was actually a low-interest loan, not a grant. Thompson asked about the status of Clark School use and lease arrangements, with Cresta noting it was actively being worked on under school jurisdiction. Phelan suggested scheduling a comprehensive meeting with all stakeholders including the school committee. Cresta mentioned potential short-term use for recreation programs. Phelan inquired about track updates and suggested exploring partnership opportunities with Aggregate Industries for funding, given their previous interest in philanthropy. Cresta estimated track repair or replacement costs at $1 million to $1.5 million depending on amenities.
Public Comment (Link: 00:28:00 – 00:37:00)
Fletcher inquired whether the track project might qualify for grants, with Cresta suggesting they check with Marzi about potential grant opportunities.
Chair Phelan opened public comment by reading an emailed comment from Andrea Moore of Precinct 3. Moore reported that the swings at Linscot Park were in disrepair, with less than half functional and about eight children waiting to use them. She acknowledged plans potentially involving the new hotel but requested the current swing set be repaired as it was one of the most used playground sets in town, estimating the cost at a couple hundred dollars for new swings.
Louis Drazulo of 48 Farragut Road addressed parking restrictions on Forest Avenue, Laurel Road, and Nason Road near the school. He argued that despite no parking signs, many parents continued parking there during the typical 30-minute pickup window without causing safety hazards, which he confirmed with the police department. Drazulo noted that police were now patrolling to ticket violators at residents’ request. He explained that limited busing and fewer available spaces made it difficult for working parents to manage pickup, especially with longer pickup lines. He argued that the brief 30-minute presence of parents and children had not caused harm or disruption to the neighborhood, requesting reevaluation of the situation, particularly with winter approaching. Drazulo also urged parents to educate their children about bicycle safety, noting he had seen children riding without helmets and on the wrong side of the road.
Jeannie Patz of 29 Nason Road commented remotely via Teams, clarifying that the parking restrictions were originally implemented by police and the Select Board for safety and clearance reasons, not resident preferences. She explained that allowing parking on both sides of streets like Nason, Laurel, or Forest would eliminate clearance for cars to pass during drop-off and pickup, affecting not just pedestrian and bicycle safety but also vehicle traffic flow. Patz emphasized that neighborhood residents primarily wanted everyone to be safe.
Rachel Terradosh of 71 Middlesex Avenue clarified that the issue was not a complete parking ban but resident permit parking only. She noted that Drazulo’s suggestion was that anyone needing to park on the street should be allowed to do so, distinguishing between no parking and resident-only parking restrictions.
Town Administrator Contract and Appointment (Link: 00:37:00 – 00:49:00)
Vice Chair Thompson explained the town administrator selection process, noting that the board had previously voted at the senior center to move forward with two candidates in order: first Jason Silva, then Nick Connors. The board proceeded through negotiations in executive session in that order but was unable to reach an agreement with Silva. They then moved to negotiations with Connors and successfully came to an agreement. Thompson announced that the board was present to approve a contract with Nick Connors as the next town administrator.
Chair Phelan praised the selection committee’s work, noting they had stated optimistically that all three interviewed candidates could fulfill the town administrator role, each with different strong characteristics. She described the final decision as essentially a personality choice and commended the board’s collaborative approach throughout the process. Phelan and Thompson served as the negotiation team with clear parameters set by the board, bringing any impediments back to the full board for discussion.
Fletcher emphasized that nothing was done behind closed doors, noting the extensive public process with three great candidates and clear procedures. She explained this was their first public meeting since reaching agreement, so it was the first opportunity to announce the decision publicly. Thompson added that they used their consultant for market testing to determine appropriate terms, and Fletcher noted they followed the charter throughout the process.
Leonard made a motion to approve the town administrator’s contract, which was seconded. The motion passed 4-0, with Member David Grishman absent due to a work function.
The board then moved to the appointment of the new town administrator. Nick Connors addressed the board, expressing excitement about joining the team and executing on their policies, priorities, and objectives. He confirmed his start date as October 6th and indicated he would be available for contact before then. Phelan noted she had tried unsuccessfully to negotiate an October 1st start date on behalf of Interim Town Administrator Cresta.
Leonard made a motion to appoint Nick Connors as town administrator, which Fletcher seconded. Thompson discussed the importance of planning Connors’ public onboarding process, noting that while the board had gotten to know him through the interview process, the community would need to learn about him. The motion to appoint Connors passed 4-0.
The board discussed coordinating a press release and took a group photograph with Connors to commemorate the appointment. Phelan noted that Connors would no longer need to make the long commute for meetings once he started his position.
Phelan then introduced the next agenda item regarding the appointment of Patrick Letty as ex officio to the retirement committee. She explained that the retirement board had requested an interim ex officio member since Amy Sorrow, the former finance director who previously held this role, was no longer in that position. With the assistant finance director and town accountant positions currently vacant, they requested that town treasurer Patrick Letty be appointed temporarily. Phelan confirmed that the Public Employee Retirement Administration Commission had verified that Letty could fulfill this role as town treasurer without violating any procedures.
Patrick Letty Retirement Committee Appointment (Link: 00:49:00 – 00:50:00)
Thompson made a motion to approve the appointment, which Leonard seconded. The motion passed with all members voting in favor. Chair Phelan noted that she should have mentioned that Patrick Letty was also in favor of taking on the task, clarifying that this was not a “voluntold” position and that he was excited to take it on. The board expressed gratitude for his willingness to serve in this interim capacity.
Phelan then moved to the next agenda item regarding discussion and possible vote on the schematic design for 24 Redington Street. She introduced Dixie Mallory, a principal of Delamar, who had been working diligently with the town and would be presenting the schematic designs for the Delamare Swampscott Hotel on Redington Street.
Schematic Design Review for 24 Redington Street Hotel (Link: 00:50:00 – 01:27:00)
Dixie Mallory, principal of Delamar, presented schematic designs for the hotel project at 24 Redington Street, noting that the plans were similar to what was presented in their RFP but more refined and detailed. Architect Richard Turlington joined remotely for technical questions.
Thompson requested context about the Land Development Agreement (LDA) process and timeline. Phelan explained this was an early step under the LDA with Delamar for the Hadley Hotel building. The schematic designs were due at the end of Delamar’s due diligence period, and the board had 20 days to approve them. Due to the October 1st holiday pushing their next meeting back a week, they needed to vote that night or request an extension from Delamar.
Thompson asked about next steps and ramifications. Mallory explained that after approval, there would be another public hearing, but their schedule would continue moving forward. Fletcher inquired about public meetings, noting that town planner Marzi Galazzi was absent. Thompson expressed concern about approving without adequate public input, especially for nearby residents with particular interests.
Phelan outlined the full timeline from the LDA: Delamar must submit construction drawings and specifications within six months of the due diligence period end, obtain all permits and financing within 15 months, execute the ground lease within 15 months, achieve 50% completion within a year of lease execution (approximately 27 months from schematic approval), substantial completion within 23 months of lease execution (39 months from present), apply for certificate of occupancy 90 days after substantial completion, begin rent payments 90 days after certificate of occupancy, and start pilot payments 270 days after certificate of occupancy.
Mallory presented the exterior design, explaining that the facade would primarily involve repairs and cleaning with new windows throughout that aesthetically match the original 1910-1911 windows. The major change would be adding an elevator and stair tower between the main building and annex to provide ADA compliance and horizontal and vertical conveyance between wings.
Thompson questioned two large surfaces without windows. Mallory explained they would place bathrooms against those walls, with TVs and other room elements positioned there, while each room would have two large windows facing either the water or back toward the annex and town.
The site plan showed 63 parking spots with the current playground area becoming main parking. Cars would enter from Redington Street, now connected back to Douay Road, with hotel entrance and ADA access at the elevator tower. Outdoor dining and landscape terrace areas would face the water, with the prime corner location offering views of both water and park. Thompson confirmed this was similar to earlier presentations with approximately 60 parking spots and asked about elevation changes. Mallory confirmed they would need to level the slope with a retaining wall.
Regarding tree removal, Mallory noted they had few trees on the property as most were technically in Linscott Park and overhanging. Cresta mentioned one dead tree would be removed. The hotel would have 56 to 59 rooms depending on suite configurations.
Mallory presented basement plans, explaining the main building’s basement was more of a sub-basement three feet down from grade. The current science room would become an informal bar/pub, while the more formal dining room would be located where current mechanicals were housed. They planned to add a deck at basement level and expose currently boarded windows for natural light. The real sub-basement with three large boilers would house new mechanicals. The back half would be kitchen and back-of-house functions, with a dedicated spa entrance and fitness room/gymnasium. The annex basement would contain hotel rooms ranging from 290 to 755 square feet, compared to average Marriott rooms of 325-375 square feet.
Thompson asked about basement room windows. Mallory explained these would be at-grade motel-style rooms with shatterproof windows. Thompson inquired about maintaining school themes, and Mallory confirmed they planned to celebrate the building’s school history and pursue National Register of Historic Places designation as part of historic tax accreditation.
The first floor would feature ADA access via elevators, a grand staircase to the lobby and front desk, with the current gymnasium remaining largely untouched as a ballroom with 25-foot ceilings and large windows overlooking the park. Classrooms of approximately 800 square feet would be divided in half with demising walls, giving each room two large windows and repurposing coat closets as bathrooms.
Phelan asked about preserving the gymnasium’s high ceilings. Mallory confirmed they would maintain the architecture and stage, renovating it to look like a ballroom rather than a school gymnasium while keeping the same footprint. They might add a small elevator or lift to bring food from the basement kitchen.
The second and third floors would follow similar classroom division patterns. Phelan asked about ADA accessibility, and Mallory explained code requires one ADA room per room type on each floor. The third floor would feature rooms with terraces overlooking the park, including a 536-square-foot room that could become a suite.
For the rooftop, Mallory explained they considered various options but decided against heavy installations due to structural reinforcement costs. Instead, they planned an open sun deck with bathrooms tucked in the far corner, two forms of egress via stairs and elevator, and flexible programming for events or hotel guest amenities. The space could accommodate mobile bars for events.
Thompson asked about roof access and permanent bar possibilities. Mallory confirmed elevators would reach the roof and explained they might add a permanent bar near the stairwell, though plumbing and utilities remained to be determined. Fletcher asked about enclosure, and Mallory clarified it would be an open seasonal space, not enclosed like Mission on the Bay, though they might add umbrellas or pergola systems.
Regarding mechanicals and energy systems, Mallory indicated they would likely use electric heat pumps similar to their newest hotel in Mystic, with possible gas in the kitchen for commercial cooking. Thompson asked about the super stretch code applicability to renovations versus new construction. Fletcher and Phelan reminded him they had negotiated “commercial best efforts” language in the LDA regarding energy efficiency, which they felt comfortable with given Delamar’s track record.
Phelan noted the LDA required at least two community meetings prior to board submission of approved schematics. Since these should have occurred already, they would need to schedule them before their October 8th meeting. Following schematic approval, the project would go to the Swampscott Planning Board for additional public review, similar to the Pine Street project process.
The board decided to request a formal extension from Delamar to allow time for required community meetings before their October 8th meeting, when they would return for discussion and potential approval of the schematic designs. Architect Richard Turlington briefly introduced himself and confirmed Mallory had covered everything adequately. Thompson jokingly asked about room reservations, with Mallory noting the 39-month timeline from due diligence end to completion.
Hazard Mitigation Plan Update (Link: 01:28:00 – 01:54:00)
A speaker reintroduced Martin Pillsbury, a senior environmental advisor with the Metropolitan Area Planning Council, who had been instrumental in helping shepherd the town through updating their 2015 hazard mitigation plan. Thanks to Pillsbury and a grant secured by town planner Marzi Galazzi, the town was in final stages of rolling out the updated plan to help prepare for and respond to natural emergencies. Chair Phelan noted that Galazzi had posted this as a public meeting specifically for the Hazard Mitigation Plan Update.
Pillsbury explained this was his second appearance before the board, having previously presented in March during the mid-process stage. FEMA requires two public meetings for hazard mitigation plans: one mid-process and one when a draft plan is complete to make it available for public review and comments before submission to MEMA and FEMA for review. He provided context that FEMA encourages communities nationwide to develop these plans following the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000, which empowered FEMA to think about pre-disaster resilience rather than just post-disaster response and replacement. Swampscott was working on its third hazard mitigation plan since the program began, with previous plans in 2015 and around 2008-2010. A major advantage of having an approved plan is eligibility for FEMA grants for implementation projects.
Pillsbury defined hazard mitigation as reducing impacts of natural hazards through strategies including accommodation projects, programs, and policies. The plan asks what preventative actions are currently being taken to reduce damages from storms and natural events, and what additional actions can be taken to increase community resilience. The plan focuses on natural hazards including flooding, high wind events, winter hazards, geologic hazards like earthquakes and landslides, wildfires, extreme temperatures, and droughts, but not homeland security, terrorism, or radiological disasters.
The goal is to break the cycle of disaster, rebuild, disaster, rebuild by intervening to reduce damages when natural events occur. Hazard mitigation encompasses various strategies including actions to prevent damages, protect existing properties in hazardous zones, public education and outreach, protection of natural resources that buffer storms like wetlands, structural projects like culverts and seawalls, and emergency services protection to ensure first responders can operate during disasters.
The plan was developed with a local hazard mitigation team led by the fire chief and Galazzi, including members from different town departments who met quarterly throughout the process. The team provided local knowledge not documented elsewhere, helping update critical facilities, review goals, assess hazard impacts, and develop mitigation actions. Pillsbury noted the value of institutionalizing this local understanding through the planning process.
Pillsbury presented a comprehensive map showing 71 critical facility sites identified by the team, eight locally identified flooding hazard areas (four coastal and four inland related to street and stormwater drainage), four brush fire hazard areas in the largest forested parcels, and one elevated surface heat area along Route 1A near the Salem line where increased pavement and fewer trees create higher summer temperatures.
Fletcher asked about the location of the police station and Phillips Park pumping station, noting her concern based on a Kleinfelder report from around 2016 that showed the police station in one of the most serious hazard areas. She questioned whether the facility, which serves as the primary emergency center with backup generators, would need to be moved or changed. A speaker confirmed there was a backup site, and Pillsbury explained the blue areas on the map represented FEMA’s special flood hazard areas with a 1% chance of flooding in a 100-year storm.
Thompson clarified that a 100-year flood doesn’t mean it will happen in 100 years but represents a 1% annual chance that could occur any year. Phelan suggested this was an ongoing conversation as buildings come online and offline, noting the new elementary school with state-of-the-art capabilities might serve as an alternative emergency management location. The fire chief confirmed that during elementary school planning, there were extensive discussions about using it as an alternate emergency management command center, including considerations for on-site generation capacity.
Pillsbury presented future flood scenarios based on the Massachusetts Coastal Flood Risk model, showing projections for 1.2 feet, 2.4 feet, and 4.2 feet of sea level rise. The mapping showed areas remarkably similar to current flood zones but with some extension near the Lynn boundary along Eastern Avenue. The years associated with sea level rise projections represented worst-case scenario estimates, noting that middle or lower curve projections could extend to the end of the century or beyond.
Regarding hurricane and tropical storm history, Pillsbury showed tracks from the 1860s through the area, with only one tropical depression tracking directly through Swampscott in 1902. He emphasized that storms don’t need to track directly through the town to cause impacts, as they are regional events affecting wide areas through winds and waves. He noted several offshore tracks that would bring storm surges against the coast, including three storms in 2007-2008.
On coastal erosion, Pillsbury presented state assessment data from 1840-2018 showing long-term erosion of about a tenth of a foot per year, but recent trends from 1970 showed acceleration to almost a foot per year. The plan also addressed other hazards including wildfires, extreme heat, and drought, though flooding and coastal flooding were primary concerns.
The town had implemented quite a few mitigation measures from the previous plan. The new 2025 plan included approximately 24-25 recommended actions, combining measures from the last plan that hadn’t been completed with new items. Actions addressed flooding and coastal flooding infrastructure issues, plus green site design, increased tree plantings, net zero water use policies, and regulatory and policy changes beyond just construction projects.
Phelan asked about grant funding eligibility, specifically whether applications were limited to listed recommendations or if related projects could qualify. Pillsbury explained that while having items on the plan helps applications, communities can apply for anything with a good case. FEMA grants are directly aligned to the plan, but other grants like Massachusetts Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness Action Grants might reference the plan without strict adherence to it.
For next steps, Pillsbury reported the plan was 99% complete with a draft posted online for public review through October 17th. After incorporating public comments, the plan would be submitted to MEMA and FEMA for formal review and revision based on their feedback. The plan would then return to the Select Board for official adoption, after which FEMA would provide formal approval with five-year validity and grant eligibility.
Hazard Mitigation Plan Review and Public Comment Process (Link: 01:54:00 – 01:59:00)
Chair Phelan asked why they would not wait to vote on the plan until after the public review period completed. Pillsbury explained that the plan could change based on comments from FEMA and MEMA, requiring the board to vote again, so no action was being requested that night. Phelan clarified the process: public comments would be integrated, then the plan would go to MEMA and FEMA, and the board would only vote on the final version after all revisions were complete.
Phelan confirmed this was a discussion rather than a vote, asking if anything felt missing from the plan or needed highlighting. Comments could be submitted anytime through October 17th. Thompson asked about the prioritization of mitigation recommendations, noting the list didn’t appear to be in priority order. Pillsbury explained that the full plan contained a detailed matrix showing high, medium, or low priorities for each action, along with lead agencies, cost estimates, and timeframes over the next five years.
Thompson asked about the top two or three priorities from the extensive list. Pillsbury clarified the items weren’t in rank order but were classified as high, medium, or low priority based on the team’s cost-benefit analysis, considering items that would provide significant benefit to the town while remaining cost-effective. Leonard asked about descriptions of the priority categories, with Thompson noting they appeared around page 133 of the plan.
Phelan noted that implementation would be driven by finances, with the town casting a wide net for grant applications. She emphasized the importance of having items classified as high priority to help justify grant applications over other communities. Thompson found the priority table starting at page 133, confirming various categories with different initiatives ranked as high, medium, or low priority within each category.
Pillsbury presented the final slide with a link for downloading the plan and suggested posting it on the town website. He provided a dedicated email address for public comments: swampscottresilienceapc.org, with submissions requested by October 17th. Phelan thanked Pillsbury for the comprehensive information and confirmed that the plan link and email would be posted on the town website for public access.
Pillsbury thanked the local hazard mitigation team, describing himself as merely the conductor while the team was the orchestra, noting that none of the work would have happened without the team’s contributions. He praised the team for bringing forward all the local data that was then formatted according to FEMA requirements. Thompson thanked Pillsbury, and Phelan acknowledged that Cresta was also part of the team.
Beauport Ambulance License Agreement and Building Improvements (Link: 01:59:00 – 02:07:00)
A speaker presented a license agreement for Beauport Ambulance to occupy a portion of 86 Burrow Street, the same space previously occupied by Cataldo Ambulance. Beauport had invested significant improvements to the building including plumbing, painting, carpeting, electrical upgrades, and communications system upgrades, with renovations nearing completion. The company was currently operating under a use and occupancy agreement at 89 Bow Street, the former senior center, as temporary quarters while renovating the old police station space.
Thompson questioned whether Beauport had been upgrading a site without a lease agreement. Chair Phelan noted this demonstrated their commitment to being part of the community. Fletcher asked about rent arrangements, noting that the town had been receiving rent from Cataldo. The speaker confirmed they had not yet begun receiving rent from Beauport on the former police station but had been receiving rent from Cataldo, which was calculated 15 years ago at a lower rate than current market comparisons for commercial properties in the area.
Fletcher inquired about a provision in the agreement stating the town would credit the licensee up to $15,000 or 30% of total approved work costs, whichever was less, applied toward monthly fees. The speaker explained this required board approval that night, though Beauport had already proceeded with the work. Thompson noted the board must have given some indication they would approve this arrangement, as Beauport had invested in improvements expecting credit.
The speaker explained this mirrored a similar 2010 arrangement with Cataldo, where the town credited back a portion of Cataldo’s investment in a new heating system for the building. Beauport would shoulder the majority of costs, with the town providing only 30% or less credit. Phelan characterized this as a cost-saving measure for the town, noting that while they would defer some rent, they avoided making capital investments themselves.
The speaker clarified that unlike the Cataldo arrangement where rent was zeroed out until full commitment was repaid, this agreement would reduce rent by $15,000 or 30% whichever was less. The license agreement didn’t specify the payback timeframe, allowing flexibility to provide either a large rent reduction for a short period or smaller monthly reductions over a longer period.
Regarding work definition, the speaker explained that only town-approved work would count toward the offset, requiring Beauport to provide invoices, bills, and paid receipts for town approval. Cresta confirmed he had not yet reviewed any of the work. Phelan outlined the next steps: if the license agreement was approved, Cresta would review proposed work for applicability, approve qualifying work, and track invoices against the $15,000 or 30% limit. She expressed concern about accurate tracking given current accounting staff shortages.
The speaker noted the agreement was developed through collaboration between town planner Galazzi, building commissioner Max, and himself. Thompson moved for approval, Leonard seconded, and the motion passed unanimously.
Phelan commended Beauport for active community participation in events whether contracted or not, noting their presence at the block party and unfortunately at a recent football game incident. The speaker confirmed the contract specified Beauport’s presence at community events and required community trainings like first responder and CPR training, but noted they had already exceeded these requirements. He emphasized that Beauport had attended the block party on short notice before having any signed agreement, demonstrating their community commitment.
Select Board Financial Expenditure Policy Amendment (Link: 02:07:00 – 02:39:00)
Chair Phelan noted this was the second time discussing this topic, which arose from Vice Chair Thompson’s concerns about adding language to protect against unauthorized expenditures and increase transparency in the expenditure process. The discussion focused on amending chapter seven of the town’s procedures manual.
Fletcher raised questions about how the proposed language would apply to situations like nearly $100,000 spent on Hawthorne studies and library consultants that were never discussed publicly with the Select Board. Thompson agreed this was another example that shouldn’t happen. Fletcher clarified that while part of the funding came from grants, not all of it was grant-funded, and even grant money could have been used for other purposes.
Thompson noted they had previously established requirements for grant notifications, referencing existing financial policy that required board notification above certain thresholds. The board had reduced dollar amounts and added caps on grant applications to ensure awareness of town activities.
Thompson explained the proposed language had two components: requiring town administrator authorization for expenditures and requiring Select Board approval above $1,000. He emphasized this would place responsibility and accountability on the town administrator while ensuring board oversight for larger expenditures. Phelan questioned whether $1,000 was too low a threshold, potentially removing discretion from the town administrator.
Thompson clarified his intent: the town administrator should authorize most expenditures through normal public processes, but if the town administrator wasn’t signing off on something, there should be a low threshold requiring board approval. Phelan initially misunderstood, thinking the $1,000 applied to both parts of the sentence rather than just the second part.
The discussion evolved around whether both town administrator authorization and Select Board votes should be required. Phelan suggested the language should require both the town administrator’s authority and a Select Board vote for expenditures above a certain amount, but Thompson worried this would require board approval for every expenditure above the threshold.
Fletcher distinguished between the Select Board expending funds versus the town expending funds, noting the town administrator has various budget line items available. The board refined the language to focus specifically on Select Board expenditures rather than all town expenditures.
Phelan raised concerns about defining “Select Board” in the policy, questioning whether it meant individual members acting on behalf of the board or required formal votes. She referenced historical instances where chairs might have acted without explicit board votes, suggesting clearer definition was needed.
Thompson initially proposed “Select Board shall not expend town funds without the town administrator’s prior written authority,” but the discussion continued about whether this adequately addressed the underlying concerns about individual members acting without board consensus.
Leonard suggested the main point was ensuring collective decision-making rather than unilateral decisions by individual board members. The group debated whether to remove the town administrator requirement and focus solely on requiring board votes for expenditures.
Fletcher raised a scenario where the Select Board might need to spend money on matters pertaining to the town administrator that couldn’t involve the administrator’s approval. This led to discussion about exceptions for extreme circumstances or expenditures concerning the town administrator.
After extensive debate about various formulations, Leonard suggested consulting with legal counsel, but Fletcher preferred not to incur additional legal expenses. The board ultimately settled on simpler language: “Select Board shall not expend town funds without a majority vote of the Select Board.”
Leonard asked whether they should wait for absent member David Grishman’s input, but Fletcher indicated they could always revisit the policy later. Fletcher made the motion to amend chapter seven of the procedures, policies and regulations manual with the agreed-upon language. Thompson seconded the motion, and it passed with all present members voting in favor.
Select Board Goals Review and Planning for 2025 (Link: 02:39:00 – 03:19:00)
Vice Chair Thompson noted it was 9 o’clock, which was his only goal for streamlining the discussion. Chair Phelan observed that Select Board goals discussions always became lengthy and tiresome when held at the end of meetings, which was why they had previously held a dedicated Saturday morning meeting on June 29, 2024, to prioritize goals. She suggested creating a list of goals that night and prioritizing them when absent member David Grishman returned.
Phelan reviewed the 2024 goals, noting that financial issues including tax levy, triple A rating, capital plan, and a financial summit had received three check marks from board members, making it the top priority. Strong team building with non-union and union personnel, contracts, processes, and relationships also received three check marks. Two check marks went to CPA infrastructure and community engagement, while one check mark went to economic development, Select Board relations as a collective unit, and tax exemptions for lower income residents.
Leonard suggested reviewing 2024 goals to identify accomplishments, noting significant progress on items like CPA passage, veterans housing, securing the hotel project, DEI initiatives, addressing beach pollution, and asset management infrastructure assessments. The board discussed various levels of progress on community engagement, Select Board unity, Hawthorne vision clarity, community center development, Glover House site development, climate action initiatives, and tax exemptions for lower income residents.
Fletcher questioned whether the board was truly acting as a collective unit, stating she couldn’t pretend recent meetings demonstrated unity and suggesting the issue still needed soul searching. The board acknowledged mixed progress on various goals, with some showing significant advancement while others remained ongoing challenges.
Leonard outlined her five priorities: completing the Hawthorne project decision, finishing the Hadley hotel project, establishing a comprehensive financial planning process involving all town stakeholders rather than making decisions in silos, conducting a holistic review of town hall staffing and FTE positions, and creating a property master plan for unused town properties including Clark School to understand optimal land use.
Thompson suggested this could be called a land use master plan or property master plan. Phelan reviewed absent member Grishman’s four priorities: economic development efforts including Humphrey Street, Hawthorne, Hadley, and small business improvements with balanced parking approaches; collaboration with the Swampscott Housing Authority for a feasibility study on new public housing units; continued infrastructure focus on water, sewer, and stormwater systems; and potential reevaluation of spending coordination with Lynn’s efforts.
Fletcher presented her priorities including securing trash contracts with help from the Solid Waste Advisory Committee and grant-funded consultants, managing strike-related costs and legal fees, reviewing health insurance contracts to reduce expenses while improving employee benefits, creating a comprehensive contract list with expiration dates, conducting a transition audit, developing backup plans for key town employees, evaluating town roles for potential consolidation or regionalization with Nahant, establishing a unified communication calendar for town and school events, conducting a post-mortem review of the town administrator hiring process, and obtaining updates on Stacy Brook source elimination progress.
Cresta provided clarification that the Stacy Brook project was estimated at roughly $10 million over three to four years at $3.5 million per year. Fletcher also mentioned wanting updates on Hawthorne, Hadley, and Glover properties, plus developing backup employee plans.
Phelan outlined her priorities: employee relations focusing on filling vacant positions and improving morale rather than eliminating roles, financial reevaluation through summit or policy review, communications improvements including DEI-related community engagement and website upgrades, Select Board unity and respect, regionalization opportunities beyond just Nahant including potential tri-town agreements, continuing beaches and pipes infrastructure work, and economic development for Hadley, Vinnin, Hawthorne, and Glover properties with succession planning for buildings.
Thompson presented his priorities: Swampscott Housing Authority master plan as his top priority, Hawthorne resolution as second priority given its long-standing status, developing a balanced integrated plan for 299 Salem Street (Glover property) that includes affordable housing, tax revenue, and an amenable solution, climate leader investment decisions regarding the $150 million funding, and the unused property master plan.
Fletcher added charter review to her list. Leonard emphasized that these goals were meant as guidelines for the town administrator to implement rather than direct board involvement in day-to-day operations. She also stressed the importance of continuing efforts to comply with open meeting law and maintain transparency, acknowledging that people had raised concerns about these issues.
Phelan proposed using the goals as a living document to help resolve future disagreements by referring back to agreed-upon priorities, potentially posting them on the town website with quarterly progress updates using a red-yellow-green system. She suggested that if successful, they should modify procedures to formalize this goal-setting process going forward. The board planned to prioritize the goals at their October 8th meeting using a check mark system similar to their 2024 process.
Consent Agenda Approval (Link: 03:19:00 – 03:20:00)
Leonard made a motion to approve the consent agenda, which was seconded. The motion passed with all members voting in favor. Chair Phelan noted how easy the process was and read the consent agenda items for the public who might not have access to the agenda materials.
The consent agenda included an SRF application for $3.5 million, a one-day liquor license for Sip Wine Education LLC for a fall wine tasting at the senior center, approval of a one-day liquor license for a sip of science event at the library, a vote on the Fix It clinic to be presented by the Solid Waste Advisory Committee, and approval of meeting minutes.
Select Board Member Comments and Meeting Adjournment (Link: 03:20:00 – 03:27:00)
Fletcher thanked Nathan Kent, Dave Besheimer, and Alexander Perez for their hard work that evening. She also gave special birthday wishes to John Phelan, Chair Phelan’s husband, noting she was friends with two people he was home with who had told her what a great person he was.
Thompson asked if this was Interim Town Administrator Cresta’s last meeting. Cresta jokingly responded “if you want it to be.” Phelan clarified that the meeting originally scheduled for October 1st had been moved to October 8th due to the holiday, so this would indeed be Cresta’s final meeting since new Town Administrator Nick Connors would start October 6th. Cresta noted this made his tenure exactly 11 months.
Thompson expressed gratitude to Cresta, acknowledging it wasn’t fair to have him do two jobs simultaneously but noting they had survived and thrived. He appreciated Cresta’s work despite not always agreeing on everything, and mentioned the additional challenge of the trash strike that occurred during his tenure.
Leonard delivered extensive praise for Cresta, stating she had never met someone with his work ethic, sense of obligation, and commitment to the town. She noted that despite sometimes being set up to fail unintentionally, he still excelled. She expressed pride in knowing him and said the experience had made her a better person.
Leonard addressed the elementary school parking issue raised during public comment, acknowledging it was a concern but reminding everyone that a year ago they had held forums and spoken with residents, parents, school administrators, and police to develop the current plan with parking restrictions. She noted they had agreed to reevaluate and pivot if needed, and suggested that might be necessary. Leonard emphasized that police were doing exactly what was asked of them, and while parking and pickup was difficult, she parked where supposed to as a parent at the school. She called for more communication to resolve the situation and thanked Officer Kevin Reen, Brian Wilson, and the police department.
Leonard praised Swamptoberfest from the past weekend as another fabulous summer event, crediting the recreation department. She welcomed Connors, expressing faith in him and noting the board was excited for his fresh perspective, new ideas, and experience. She assured him they didn’t usually go this late and not to be deterred.
Phelan echoed the sentiments about concluding with Connors’ appointment, expressing pride in the process and excitement for future growth for both Swampscott and Connors. She shared a personal anecdote from the weekend football game where her daughter complained about having no friends, and Cresta appeared to say he was her friend, illustrating his character. Phelan commended Cresta for not letting the job change who he was throughout his tenure.
Phelan made a motion to adjourn, which Leonard seconded. Cresta indicated he was getting emotional and would save his comments for another time, noting he wasn’t going anywhere. The motion to adjourn was approved, and the meeting ended.
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