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Meeting Opening and Town Administrator Report (Link: 00:06:00 – 00:16:00)
Chair Katie Phelan called the Tuesday, August 19, 2025 Select Board meeting to order, noting they are being recorded. The board recited the Pledge of Allegiance before beginning with the Town Administrator’s report.
Interim Town Administrator Gino A. Cresta Jr. reported that two candidates for the Town Administrator position, Nick Connor and Jason Silva, have been moved forward to final interviews. These interviews will be televised, livestreamed, and available on Teams sometime next week.
Cresta announced that the UV pilot program has been halted two weeks early, with dismantling beginning Monday and expected completion by week’s end except for the UV trailer. Assistant Town Accountant Train Views worked her last day Thursday, though she worked Friday and Saturday to ensure a smooth transition during the position vacancy. Police union negotiations continue with the fourth session held that day and the next session scheduled for September 9, 2025.
In community development updates, Cresta reported that Westcott residents are gradually moving into the new building with up to 20 apartments currently occupied. Plans for a ribbon cutting and grand opening are being finalized, and fencing between the Westcott and Swampscott Housing Authority was replaced last week. Regarding the General Glover project, the developer contacted the town and Historical Commission with updates on preserving the General Glover homestead in its current location. The developer expects the Historical Commission to provide funding for interior and exterior restoration and will follow up once site plan details are refined.
For the Hadley project, Cresta clarified that the 15-month timeline request would begin from the date of LDA lease and pilot payment finalization rather than from the April due diligence expiration date. In the Building Department, part-time Commissioner Roger Enes continues conducting inspections Tuesdays and Thursdays for approximately 10 hours weekly. The department seeks a part-time electrical inspector after the previous one retired in December, with temporary help provided by Marblehead Inspection Services. Inspectors are enforcing signed bylaw violations and noticing owners lacking required house numbers. The Building Department issued 67 permits and received $21,000 in revenue in April.
The library reported a 15% increase in visitors, 7% increase in material circulation, and 28% increase in meeting room use for fiscal year 2025. They provided 389 programs with 7,614 attendees, issued 2,305 museum passes, and held their second annual Patron Appreciation Day with over 200 attendees. The Town Clerk’s Election Review Committee will review election process improvement suggestions to present to the Select Board and subsequently vote on at Town Meeting.
The Senior Center will receive their electric van this week, with 80 members attending the fire department’s cookout last week. An RFP for the Community Life Center will be issued soon. For facilities, RFQs will be issued to hire a consultant for middle school window design, the library front entry bid goes out the following day, and the Senior Center air handler condensation unit is currently out for bid.
Recreation updates include Wednesday’s Swampscott by the Sea Concert featuring the American Who starting at 6pm, with attendees encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets. Thursday’s movie night will feature Free Willy on Fisherman’s Beach, sponsored by Sam Walker’s American Tavern. September events include Swamptoberfest on September 8th with a rain date of September 13th, town-wide Yard Sale and Porch Fest both on September 20th, and the annual Swampscott Classic Car Show on October 12th.
Police updates include approximately 50 residents attending a community meeting hosted by Officer Kevin Reen and Community and Economic Development Director Mazzy Galaska regarding Stetson Avenue and Franklin Avenue traffic concerns. Officer Reen will work with DPW on short-term solutions while longer-term proposals will be presented to the Capital Improvement Committee this fall. The department’s newest recruit Kevin Kaufman will attend NECC Police Academy starting October 14th. Sixteen candidates completed written exams last week with scores to be released this week, and oral board interviews scheduled for September 22nd with eight candidates. The August 10th physical training test was postponed due to lack of candidates, with the next PT training scheduled for September 3rd. All lateral candidates have been exhausted.
Human Resources is reviewing applications and interviewing candidates for vacant Town Accountant, Assistant Town Accountant, and Land Use Coordinator positions. The Fire Department contacted 10 candidates with eight applying to fill three vacancies – two currently open and one opening in December due to retirement. Beauport Ambulance is using the former Reach Arts building at 89 Borough Street while renovating the old police station, officially starting August 15th.
Public Works completed the Atlantic Avenue water main replacement project earlier in the month, replacing the 10-inch water main, new hydrants, and line gates from Blodgett Avenue to the Marblehead line. The project also included replacing the cast iron 6-inch water main with a new 8-inch ductile iron water main on Palmer Avenue. Grenise and Son, subcontractor for National Water Main Cleaning Company, is replacing compromised sewer mains on Essex Street and surrounding roadways as part of the Phase 2A Stacy’s Brook sewer system rehabilitation project.
Regarding trash service, Cresta reported that the Republic Services strike continues despite pressure from local elected officials, the Governor, and state legislators. Republic will continue curbside trash pickup only for the coming week and foreseeable future. Bulk items will be accepted with required bulk item stickers purchasable at Town Hall. The DPW will remain open Fridays 3pm to 7pm and weekends 10am to 4pm for recycling drop-off only, with residents asked to bring recycling in recyclable containers, cardboard boxes, paper bags, or yard waste bags. Plastic bags with recycling will not be accepted.
Questions on Town Administrator Report (Link: 00:16:00 – 00:22:00)
Chair Katie Phelan asked for questions on the Town Administrator report. A committee member asked about traffic at the DPW yard for recycling pickup. Cresta reported that cars begin lining up at 2:30 on Friday afternoons, extending past Franklin almost to Longwood Drive. The backup lasts about two and a half to three hours with steady traffic, and Saturday and Sunday mornings see similar backups for about an hour and a half.
The same committee member asked for an update on the assessor position. Cresta said he spoke with Marianne that day, who sent the position to Paul for review of the job description. The posting should go out the following day or by the beginning of the next week at the latest.
A committee member followed up asking for clarification on whether the job description was just going out. Cresta confirmed they were working on the description to post the position.
Mary Ellen Fletcher asked for an update on the Stetson Road traffic issue, specifically about the timeline for action and whether speed bumps would be installed. Cresta explained that he and Kevin discussed putting up speed limit signs and delineation markers at the Franklin and Stetson intersection. They would wait on speed bumps because they are popular unless placed in front of someone’s house, noting that for the past two to three years, residents have requested speed bumps be moved from in front of their homes to someone else’s.
Phelan commended the library staff for working understaffed while accomplishing wonderful things, particularly noting their programs and new initiatives including the maker space, teen space, and website’s one-year anniversary. She praised the website’s ease of use and suggested the town could learn from it. Phelan also thanked the staff for supporting local nonprofits and providing meaningful opportunities for children to participate. She asked about handling leaf and yard waste during the trash strike as fall approaches. Cresta said they already completed one pickup and the next scheduled pickup is the week of September 8th, with plans to handle it at the DPW for about two weeks.
A committee member asked for clarification about the assessor position, noting it was passed as part of the annual budget funding and wondering if the delay was due to too many ongoing postings. Cresta confirmed that was likely the case.
The same committee member asked about the General Glover update, expressing confusion about information that seemed contrary to their understanding. Cresta clarified that what he read represented what the developer wants to do, not necessarily what the owner wants, which resolved the confusion. The committee member noted they need to resolve that issue.
Phelan then moved to public comments, explaining that participants would have three minutes each, should come to the microphone to state their name and address, and online participants should raise their hands.
Public Comments (Link: 00:22:00 – 00:25:00)
Justin Epley, town meeting member of Precinct 4 residing at 108 Burle Street in Swampscott and majority owner of Terpene Journey, addressed the board regarding the social equity policy being considered that evening. Epley thanked everyone for putting the social equity policy on the agenda and noted he was part of the first cohort of the social equity program with the Cannabis Control Commission.
Epley’s comment pertained to point number five on page three of the document. He urged the board to adopt language that eliminates the community impact fee for equity parties rather than just considering it. He argued this makes financial sense for the town because social equity applicants will bring guaranteed additional 1% tax revenue that exceeds the impact fees, and this elimination was the intent of its inclusion in the 2022 law relative to cannabis equity.
A committee member asked if others caught Epley’s specific request. Chair Katie Phelan clarified that it was point number five on page three, noting there are two point number fives on that page, but the relevant one involves considering waiving or reducing fees for equity partners. Epley confirmed this was correct, explaining he wanted to change the language from “considering” to actually eliminating the fees. Phelan noted that town counsel indicated this option is optional and can be removed if the town prefers, stating they would need to discuss the town’s preference while acknowledging Epley’s preference for elimination.
Phelan asked if anyone else wished to make public comments. Seeing none, she moved to new and old business discussion, specifically the possible appointment of Eric Kinshurf as temporary town accountant, asking Cresta to proceed.
Appointment of Temporary Town Accountant (Link: 00:25:00 – 00:30:00)
Cresta explained that due to staffing shortages in the accounting department, with the recent loss of the assistant accountant in addition to the finance director position, they are bringing on board Eric A. Kishner, CPA, LLC. Cresta provided Kishner’s background, noting he is licensed in Massachusetts with an MBA from Suffolk University and a Bachelor of Science degree with accounting concentration from Bridgewater State College. Kishner’s credentials include certification as a Massachusetts Municipal Treasurer and Collector and as a Chartered Global Management Accountant. His firm was established in 2008 and is located in Sagamore Beach with two additional remote offices in Central and Western Massachusetts.
Cresta noted this would be Kishner’s third time providing accountant support services to Swampscott during transitions to new town accountants, expressing confidence in his work. Kishner’s scope includes assistance in closing the books, preparing the combined balance sheet for free cash submission, assisting in completing the FY26 tax rate recap, and completing the schedule A report. The appointment would allow Kishner to sign off on accounts payable warrants so the town can pay bills after the transition.
A committee member asked whether Kishner had already been doing work for the town and if this was an expansion or codification of existing work. Cresta confirmed it was codifying work already being done. The committee member then asked about managing day-to-day operations since this covers only part of the town accountant position. Cresta explained they would need additional services beyond the original contract since they hadn’t anticipated losing the assistant accountant, and they plan to bring someone on board to be in the building daily through Kishner’s firm, mentioning someone named Patrick or Bill Albert Rowe who had already been in the building.
Chair Katie Phelan asked about the transition audit that had been discussed and funded through town meeting, questioning whether it was still appropriate for Kishner to conduct it given his new position or if it should go back out to bid. A speaker mentioned they had received four or five quotes and Kishner had been selected. Cresta agreed to circle back with Kishner to check for conflicts of interest. Phelan noted that while the audit looks at prior actions rather than current ones, they should verify there’s no conflict, and if there is, they would need to review other bids.
A committee member pointed out the potential overlap since Kishner would be closing the books on 2025, which could be part of what he would be auditing. The committee member asked if Cresta would be bringing an addendum to expand services at a future meeting, which Cresta confirmed.
A committee member made a motion to appoint Eric Kinser to the office of town accountant on a temporary basis pursuant to Mass General Law Chapter 41 Section 40 due to a vacancy, with the appointment continuing until a permanent successor is appointed. Another committee member seconded the motion. The board conducted a roll call vote with Mary Ellen Fletcher, Thompson, a committee member, and Phelan all voting aye, unanimously approving the appointment.
Phelan then moved to the 6:45 public hearing for discussion and possible vote to consider approval of the transfer of ownership of an existing section 15 off premises liquor license for Vin and Square Liquors located at 371 Paradise Road in Swampscott.
Liquor License Transfer Public Hearing (Link: 00:30:00 – 00:33:00)
Jeff Goldberg, an attorney, appeared with his client Angela Ansara seeking approval of a transfer involving the current stockholders of Vin and Square Liquors. Goldberg explained that Angela currently owns 98% of the business while her mother Margaret owns the remaining 2%. Upon advice from a financial advisor for estate planning purposes, it was recommended that Margaret transfer her 2% to Angela, making Angela the sole stockholder of the liquor store. Angela currently serves as the manager of the store.
Goldberg noted they had followed proper procedures by notifying the three abutters multiple times due to the matter being rescheduled and had published notices in the Lynn Item on multiple occasions. Chair Katie Phelan paused the presentation to motion to enter into the public hearing, which was moved, seconded, and approved by roll call vote with Fletcher, Thompson, and Phelan all voting aye.
The board found the matter straightforward with no questions. Thompson asked if anyone from the town had reviewed all the documents to ensure they were in order. Phelan confirmed that Mazzy had reviewed them but was at a ZBA meeting. Phelan clarified that the matter would go before the ABCC after their approval, and the ABCC would approve it following their approval, which Goldberg confirmed.
A committee member moved to approve the transfer of ownership of the existing section 15 off premises liquor license for Vin and Square Liquors Inc., which was seconded. The motion was approved by roll call vote with Fletcher, a committee member, and Phelan all voting aye. Phelan then entertained a motion to close the public hearing, which was moved, seconded, and approved by roll call vote with Fletcher, Thompson, a committee member, and Phelan all voting aye.
Phelan then moved to the water bond agenda item, thanking Patrick for joining them.
Water Bond Authorization (Link: 00:33:00 – 00:37:00)
Patrick Letty, Town Treasurer, presented a $600,000 water bond offered through the MWRA’s Local Water System Assistance Program for approval. Letty explained this is a zero interest loan repayable over a 10-year term, noting the town has typically taken advantage of these loans when available in past years. The DPW submitted the scope of work to the program and it was approved. Letty described the process as fairly routine and referenced a consolidated motion in the meeting packet.
A committee member asked about the competitiveness of the zero percent interest loan and whether it was a competitive process or oversubscribed. Cresta explained that MWRA puts the program out to all their communities and divides it up. Initially, the allocation was $5.5 million for 10 years, giving them $550,000 per year for 10 years. However, several communities did not take advantage of the interest-free loan, so that money was put back into a pot and they received another $3.5 million over 10 years. Thompson joked that those communities were waiting for a better interest rate.
Chair Katie Phelan noted that while maybe not in recent history, in other years they may have been eligible but not taken advantage of the program when projects didn’t come to fruition. Cresta clarified that the loans they had been eligible for but didn’t take advantage of were SRF loans. Letty added that SRF loans are two to two and a half percent, depending on the term, either two or 2.4 percent.
Thompson asked whether this was in concert with anticipated needs and part of long-term planning, confirming these were not emergency repairs but part of keeping the system updated and anticipated in water rates. Cresta confirmed this was correct. Thompson also asked about expectations for repairing Atlantic Avenue, noting it has been torn up multiple times and is hazardous for vehicles. Cresta explained that the next pavement project will include Atlantic Avenue from the Puritan Atlantic Humphreys split to Blodgett Avenue, but they will wait a following year for trenches to settle, preferring to wait at least one winter because compaction isn’t great. Thompson confirmed they were finished with major infrastructure work since they have new gas and water, and Cresta indicated the paving could start in the fall for a section of Atlantic Avenue.
A committee member moved that the written votes presented to the meeting in connection with the town’s sale of its bond be adopted as written and incorporated into the minutes in full. The motion was seconded and approved by roll call vote with Fletcher, Thompson, and a committee member all voting aye. Letty noted there were signature pages requiring at least three signatures, and since three board members were present, they could sign that evening.
Phelan announced she was moving the LDA discussion to the bottom of the agenda because Mazzy was going to try to attend after her ZBA meeting for the social equity policy, Terpene Journey conversation, and LDA discussion. The board then moved to the DPW agenda item.
Lacrosse Wall Approval Discussion (Link: 00:37:00 – 00:49:00)
Cresta requested to move the lacrosse wall discussion first since they had guests present. He explained that he had been meeting with Ryan and Jen for about a year and a half discussing the proposed lacrosse wall at the rear of Phillips Park. Cresta noted that lacrosse is one of the fastest growing sports and that Swampscott Youth Lacrosse would fund all the work with DPW providing some support.
Ryan Joey, president of Swampscott Youth Lacrosse, and Jen Kelleher, girls director for the program, presented their proposal for a lacrosse wall ball structure at Phillips Park. Joey explained that the Swampscott lacrosse program was started in 1991 by Rick Anderson, Tom Cesar, Art Bagnall, and Tom Driscoll, and has seen tremendous growth with approximately 300 players year over year and about 20% of elementary and middle school students playing lacrosse. In 2024, both the girls and boys programs won state championships at Harvard University.
Joey described the wall as a destination for kids to practice on and off season, noting it would have very little to no noise factor, be highly suitable for social distancing, and serve as a multi-use structure that soccer and other sports could utilize. He provided examples of similar structures in Reading, Winchester, Ashland, Beverly, and Weston. The proposed site would be located between the practice football field and along the walking path to the soccer fields, not intruding on any youth program space. They had gained approval from youth soccer, youth football, and high school coaches.
The total project cost would be between $20,000 to $25,000, fully funded by Swampscott Youth Lacrosse. The structure would consist of three sections, each 6 feet by 16 feet high, constructed by a company on the South Shore. Construction would take about half a day, starting at 8 AM and finishing by 1 or 2 PM. They hoped to use different surfaces on each side, including grass, turf, or concrete. Pending approval, they would place the order by the end of the week or start of the following week, with a 10-week construction timeline for mid-November placement.
Thompson asked about the board’s role in the approval process since the town was not paying for anything. Cresta explained that once constructed, the structure would be turned over to the town and become town property, requiring the board to accept it as a gift. Chair Katie Phelan noted there would be potential maintenance considerations over the years.
Mary Ellen Fletcher recommended following the gift policy voted on the previous year, suggesting this was the first time it was definitively proposed rather than just an idea. She expressed support but wanted to ensure proper procedures were followed and that any neighbors opposed had opportunity to speak. Fletcher’s only concern was potential noise affecting neighbors, though she was told there would be virtually no sound.
Phelan noted that lacrosse balls are solid rather than hollow, so they don’t reverberate sound the same way, though Fletcher mentioned they do make noise on vinyl siding. A committee member expressed strong support for the project, and Phelan praised it as an excellent addition to Phillips Park, noting both her children play youth lacrosse and appreciating the multifunctional aspect.
Thompson clarified he was supportive but wanted to understand the procedural aspects of what they were approving. Fletcher recommended putting the item back on the next agenda to double-check compliance with the gift policy. Phelan expressed concern about delaying progress, noting the item was properly posted and had been on a previous agenda, giving neighbors opportunity to comment. A committee member noted that delaying into winter could affect construction of the cement structure due to weather.
Phelan proposed a compromise motion to approve the project conditioned upon the chair and vice chair’s review of the gift policy, with the approval standing if nothing was egregiously against the policy, or bringing it back to the agenda if issues were found. Thompson agreed as long as they didn’t place the order immediately, and Joey confirmed they would wait for confirmation from Cresta. The motion was made, seconded, and approved by roll call vote with Fletcher, Thompson, a committee member, and Phelan all voting aye.
DPW Department Update Presentation (Link: 00:49:00 – 01:00:00)
Chair Katie Phelan called for the DPW update, and Cresta waited for the PowerPoint presentation to be prepared. Cresta explained this was DPW’s turn to present after police, fire, and community development had presented two weeks prior.
Cresta provided a breakdown of the DPW department structure, with himself as director of public works, followed by a business manager, new assistant engineer, and clerical staff member Gene Whalen. Under them are four working foremen: Brian Martin as water department foreman, Evan Siegel as fleet foreman and mechanic, Will Chorus as cemetery foreman, and Steve Kent as forestry foreman. The crews are divided to work under these foremen regularly.
Cresta explained the staffing classifications, noting they have seven MEOs (mechanical equipment operators who are laborers, mechanical equipment operators, and CDL operators), three MEOHs (who have either CDL or hoist licenses but not both), and three laborers without either license. Four workers have D2 water licenses to work in the water department. Regarding staff longevity, Cresta noted he has hired all 19 individuals currently working under him, which differs from the old days when DPW jobs lasted 30-40 years. Currently, 63% of staff has under five years of service with the town, but they are hard workers who get along well, making his job easier.
For the paving project, Cresta reported that starting in April of the previous year and wrapping up within six to eight weeks, they milled and repaved 29 roadways in Swampscott. The project cost approximately $800,000, coming in under the proposed estimate, leaving $200,000 to $300,000 remaining that he hopes to use for Atlantic Avenue paving. He noted they try to coordinate paving projects with water and sewer work, though coordination with sewer work around Kings Beach didn’t work out optimally due to unknown pipe conditions.
Cresta highlighted the Marshall Street outfall improvements project using $1.7 million in ARPA funds, which wrapped up about four weeks prior. The project included relining approximately 710 linear feet of 8-inch and 10-inch sewer main, replacing 1,200 linear feet of 6-inch and 8-inch sewer main with PVC, rehabilitating 56 sewer laterals, and 31 sewer and drain manholes. He explained that broken pipes cannot be relined, so they camera all pipes first and fix broken segments before lining. He showed an actual piece of sewer pipe that was removed and replaced, noting that while final results are pending, in-house testing shows dramatically improved bacteria levels going out to Fisherman’s Beach, bringing them close to moving the paddleboard program back there.
Regarding the laterals work, Cresta explained they replace laterals that cross over drains but not those on the opposite side of the street, as he couldn’t justify the expense. While laterals are homeowner-owned, he decided it would be counterproductive to spend all the money on the main project without doing the laterals and not getting the desired results.
Cresta reported that Phase 2A of the Stacy Brook sewer rehabilitation project started the previous month, with National Water Main as the low bidder at $2.7 million from a $3.5 million appropriation. Work is ongoing on Essex Street, Hillcrest Circle, and areas around the train depot, continuing from Phase 1A which worked from the ocean back. They update progress weekly or bi-weekly on the DPW webpage, which received positive feedback during the Marshall Street project.
A committee member asked about a grant for Boynton and Pine Street. Cresta clarified they applied but didn’t receive it, though that work is part of Phase 2A. He noted they had resolved sewer overflow issues on Pine Street by cleaning a main trunk line to the pump station that was filled with debris, with about half the capacity of the 18-inch main having been filled with debris.
Thompson asked about timing for Phase 2A, and Cresta estimated it would continue into spring of the following year since cure-in-place work can be done through winter. Thompson asked about Phase 2B, and Cresta confirmed there is a plan for 2B using recently received SRF funding, which would go out to bid after finishing the current phase and would go further up geographically. He noted they continue testing along the way hoping to resolve most issues.
Mary Ellen Fletcher asked about the SRF loan application that was supposed to be submitted that month, and Cresta confirmed they were on target. Phelan asked about Banks Road commentary and whether it extended to Walker Road, since that was thought to be the trouble spot. Cresta clarified the trouble spot is actually after Walker, from Bank Circle down to Farragut Road, and confirmed that area is definitely included in the Phase 2A scope.
Meeting Setup and Technical Issues (Link: 01:00:00 – 01:00:00)
Mary Ellen Fletcher confirmed she was good to continue and noted that she might need to take herself off screen if she had to move her puppies, but would call out if she had questions or comments. Chair Katie Phelan acknowledged this arrangement.
UV Pilot Program Update (Link: 01:00:00 – 01:02:00)
Cresta reported that the UV pilot program wrapped up on Monday of that week, ending two weeks early by mutual agreement between all parties involved, including himself, the mayor of Lynn, and Kleinfelder. He explained they felt they had obtained as much information as possible from the pilot program, with the exception that they never experienced the one big storm they were hoping for to test effectiveness during a one or two-inch drainage storm.
Cresta noted that while they could potentially get a big storm in the next two weeks, there was no guarantee, and they were starting to exceed the cost limits of the program. The decision to stop early also had the added benefit of eliminating the noise, which made neighbors happy. He reported that dismantling had begun, with fencing and jersey barriers being removed, and pumps and the generator to be gone that week. The only remaining item would be the UV tank itself, which needs to be shipped back to Canada, requiring coordination of a crane trailer.
Chair Katie Phelan confirmed that the return shipping was part of the covered costs. Cresta affirmed they had made it clear they were committed to $300,000 and that was their limit. He noted the discussion was not contentious, with the vendor agreeing and offering options, and the mayor of Lynn thought stopping was a good idea since he was receiving more complaints about the noise because the generator was located in Lynn.
A committee member asked about next steps for public follow-up. Cresta confirmed there would be meetings in September or early October, with Kleinfelder compiling all results into a report before holding follow-up meetings.
Tree Planting Accomplishments (Link: 01:02:00 – 01:03:00)
Cresta reported on the DPW’s tree planting accomplishments, noting they planted 43 new street trees with DPW staff that spring. Additionally, 50 new trees were planted by Leahy Landscaping as part of a grant that Mazzy acquired. Under Leahy’s contract terms, they own the trees for two years, requiring them to water the trees and replace any that die within that period, creating an incentive for proper care.
Cresta noted it had been a very dry spring, and they had installed gator bags on their trees for watering. Despite these efforts, they lost a couple of trees, including one across from town hall and possibly one of the memorial trees in Lynn Scott Park. He indicated they would wait until fall to replace the lost trees.
Chair Katie Phelan, as liaison to the tree committee, asked the public to adopt the trees that DPW plants and help water them, noting this could solve some issues, especially during dry spells when DPW cannot water quickly enough. Cresta confirmed they had been filling the gator bags two to three times per week using summer help, but the summer help’s last day was the previous Friday.
Cemetery Operations and Burial Statistics (Link: 01:03:00 – 01:05:00)
Cresta reported on cemetery statistics for fiscal year 2025, noting they have a cemetery foreman and usually at least one other employee, mostly two, working in the cemetery daily. Their duties include not only cutting grass and weed whacking, which sometimes gets ahead of them, but also handling burials. The cemetery handled 42 full burials and 73 cremation interments over the past fiscal year, totaling about 115 burials.
Cresta shared an interesting trend that has developed over the past 20 years. Twenty years ago, if they performed 100 burials, 90 would have been full body burials. Now the numbers have flipped, with cremations representing almost 50% of burials. He noted this is beneficial for the cemetery as it saves space and is less expensive for families.
Cresta praised his DPW staff for their hard work handling recycling during the Republic Services strike. He explained that in the first week they handled only trash, the second week they handled both trash and recycling, but now trash pickup is almost complete despite Republic still missing streets and individual homes. When streets or homes are missed, residents call and Republic returns to handle the missed areas, while DPW picks up individual homes that haven’t been serviced.
Cresta attributed the inconsistent service to Republic using staff flying in from all over the country who work for a couple of weeks then leave, creating no consistency with route knowledge. On typical Monday through Wednesday, they have two trucks out, with one handling trash and one handling recycling, because Republic trucks aren’t getting out of the yards quickly enough due to delays from Teamsters who don’t know the routes.
Cresta showed a photo of a 30-yard dumpster that DPW fills with recycling, compacting it down as much as possible. He noted that on an average weekend, 13 of these dumpsters get filled with recycling.
Trash and Recycling Collection Issues (Link: 01:05:00 – 01:09:00)
Cresta continued explaining that they fill 13 thirty-yard dumpsters with recycling on average weekends, collecting more recycling than trash by volume, though he noted the weight is likely much less since each dumpster probably weighs only 2 tons due to the high volume of light plastics.
Thompson acknowledged the town’s efforts to react to the strike but noted that people he knows personally are finding the recycling situation burdensome, with many now throwing recyclables in the trash to avoid the hassle. He asked if there was any end in sight to the strike. Cresta reported speaking with a Republic representative that day who said there was no end in sight. The representative had offered two recycling trucks the previous Saturday that could have covered about 40% of the town, but Cresta declined, saying it would create complaints about selective service.
Thompson asked if they could consider a rotating system where 40% of the town gets recycling pickup each week. Cresta said it was potentially possible and noted that Marblehead was now picking up recycling for two reasons: they have their own transfer station so trash gets dropped there instead of going to North Andover, allowing trucks to return faster, and they imposed restrictions including no more than one barrel per household.
Cresta mentioned that Diane had suggested working with school sports teams like football and soccer to find volunteers with pickup trucks who could help elderly residents who cannot transport their recycling to the yard. He emphasized that people coming to the DPW yard are very appreciative and thankful for the service. He described seeing residents helping their neighbors, with some people bringing pickup trucks and trailers to collect recycling for their whole neighborhood.
Chair Katie Phelan mentioned seeing people wheeling recycling down on skateboards. Cresta noted that many people from Farragut, Walker, and Franklin streets walk their recycling down to the yard, calling it environmentally friendly. He said they see the same people week after week and it’s nice to see the community spirit. Phelan characterized it as making lemonade out of lemons, and Cresta apologized for going longer than expected with his presentation.
DPW Staff Recognition and Assistant Engineer Update (Link: 01:09:00 – 01:11:00)
A speaker noted there was a lot of activity happening in the department. Thompson commented on the department cleaning up beaches and pipes while handling trash issues. Cresta mentioned he should have included a picture of their beach rake, noting they rake the beaches three times a week.
Chair Katie Phelan asked for an update on the assistant engineer since this was the first update since he joined the team. Cresta reported it was going well, with the assistant engineer taking over the engineering responsibilities and working with Kleinfelder on current projects.
Phelan shared her experience helping at the block party that year, praising the DPW staff as amazing and fantastic. She described asking one staff member to move a porter potty, noting his willingness to help despite the unpleasant nature of the request. The staff had originally placed it at the end of the street, but when they needed it moved closer, the crew got to work and completed the task. Phelan expressed appreciation for their problem-solving attitude.
Cresta responded that he couldn’t be prouder of his staff. Mary Ellen Fletcher added her thanks to the department, reiterating the positive comments from Phelan and Thompson. She described the staff as always smiling, noting they arrive early for the farmer’s market and calling them awesome with not a bad apple in the group. Cresta said he would relay the message to his staff but couldn’t guarantee any of them were watching the meeting that evening.
LDA Amendment Discussion for Hadley School Hotel Project (Link: 01:11:00 – 01:23:00)
Chair Katie Phelan moved to discuss the amendment to the LDA and ground lease for 24 Redington Street, also known as the former Hadley School, while waiting for Mazzy to arrive. She explained that the board had signed an LDA with developer Delamar Swampscott LLC after an extensive RFP process that narrowed multiple bidders down to three finalists. After their due diligence period ended in April, Delamar requested amendments to the LDA, primarily regarding the pilot payment and an adjustment to the 15-month financing period that Cresta had mentioned earlier.
Phelan explained that Delamar’s requests stemmed from wanting to explore historic tax credits and restoration work as they became more familiar with the building, seeing financial opportunities that required a more cumbersome application process. She noted that the most critical period for hotel success is the first three to five years when they determine room occupancy, restaurant success, spa performance, and staffing needs. The board reached an equitable conclusion to ramp up the pilot payments over time, providing initial relief while ensuring long-term financial benefits for Swampscott.
Phelan emphasized that economic changes, interest rates, and financial pressures required balancing the developer’s needs with the town’s fiduciary obligations to create a financially stable arrangement for corridor revitalization. The amendment provides initial relief while maintaining financial expectations going forward, with no changes to the rent structure from the original RFP response, only altering the payment in lieu of taxes.
Thompson added that the negotiation was a product of diverse board perspectives and skill sets, including a committee member’s commercial banking experience, Phelan’s legal and property experience, and Fletcher’s negotiating experience. He emphasized that extensive executive session work went into the negotiations that the public doesn’t see. Thompson clarified that the rent payment remains $75,000 annually, while pilot payments are percentages that ramp up to a floor of $185,000 by year four, expected to be higher based on projections. He noted they conducted significant marketplace research to ensure fairness, believing they achieved a very fair deal despite reductions from initial proposals.
A committee member expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, noting that as the hotel succeeds, the town succeeds through percentage of food, beverage, and room revenue. They emphasized wanting success not just in years one and two, but in years 31 and 32, believing the hotel will ignite Humphrey Street and provide a positive public-private partnership. The committee member looked forward to welcoming Delamar as friends and partners to Swampscott.
Phelan detailed that pilot payments will be percentage-based rather than annual fixed payments: 1% in year one, 2% in year two, 2.5% in year three, and 3% in year four with a $185,000 floor. The floor was determined through research Thompson mentioned to assess fair taxation equivalent, while the ceiling is unlimited based on 3% of food, beverage, and room revenue performance. She characterized this as a partnership where the town invested in the developer’s success through the ramp-up period.
Fletcher clarified that pilot payments are separate from additional money received for room and food and beverage revenue. She acknowledged help from board of assessors members and the assessor agent in quickly obtaining necessary numbers. Fletcher emphasized this creates a long-term partnership for a well-balanced Humphrey Street, enabling major events, making Swampscott more of a destination community, and providing significant benefits.
Thompson noted a clerical error in Article 23 regarding an outdated Town Administrator email that needed updating. Phelan said she would handle the update personally. A committee member moved to approve the LDA and ground lease amendment, which was seconded and approved by roll call vote with Fletcher, Thompson, and a committee member all voting aye. Phelan praised the team effort in reaching this point.
Thompson noted that it would still be a long time before the hotel actually opens for business, with years until completion and plenty of hurdles remaining. Phelan clarified the next steps include a 15-month financing contingency period, after which construction would begin once financing is complete and they receive feedback on historic tax credits and CPACE financing, though they would take possession of the building relatively soon.
Social Equity Policy First Reading (Link: 01:23:00 – 01:32:00)
Chair Katie Phelan moved to the first reading discussion of the social equity policy, noting they had heard public commentary on the topic. She explained that for items of this magnitude, they typically discuss together, send back commentary or questions, and generally don’t vote until another reading. Phelan addressed the public comment about removing section 5 on page 3 regarding waiver or reduction language for equity parties, noting that counsel advised this section is optional and removable. She explained there is an additional 1% fee that comes to the town if applicants are social equity partners, which is why the public commenter requested consideration of the waiver.
A committee member asked for clarification about the community impact fee versus the 1% benefit, noting the 1% drops directly to the general fund while community impact fees require demonstrating adverse impacts and cataloging funds for specific mitigation. The committee member asked Cresta if there had been any community impacts from Vin and Square as a result of Terpene Journey, and Cresta responded he was aware of zero negative impacts.
Phelan explained that while they need a policy because it’s required, based on their experience to date, there’s a higher threshold to prove negative impact rather than just claiming it exists. She noted that once negative impact is shown, they must determine the value of that impact, and this can change as ownership changes. She emphasized the importance of having a policy but noted no negative impacts are occurring to their knowledge.
Thompson asked about potential traffic impacts from distracted drivers related to cannabis purchases. Phelan asked why drivers would be distracted, and Thompson clarified he meant distraction from cannabis consumption. Thompson noted that people can smell cannabis aromas while driving and wondered about data on associations with traffic accidents, emphasizing he wasn’t necessarily advocating for impact fees but wanted to understand potential impacts thoroughly.
A committee member pointed out that consuming cannabis while driving is illegal, just like consuming alcohol while driving. Phelan added that distracted driving itself is illegal and causes crashes. Thompson acknowledged that multiple wrongs don’t make a right but they were specifically discussing cannabis. Phelan noted it would be difficult to pinpoint correlation and questioned how they could determine if cannabis-related incidents came from their local dispensaries versus delivery services from other towns, but agreed they could still ask the question.
Phelan noted this was only the first reading so they could gather more data, expecting Mazzy would have additional information for the next meeting. She suggested considering removal of section 5 as the public commenter requested, since they already receive benefits from social equity partners and waiving the fee might entice more participation in social equity programs while still providing the 1% benefit.
A committee member expressed support for waiving, reducing, or removing section 5 altogether. Phelan suggested they could either remove the section or state affirmatively that they waive fees for equity parties rather than just considering waivers, noting they would need to check with counsel about the appropriate approach. She indicated she would provide this feedback to Mazzy and verify with counsel whether they could definitively waive fees rather than delete the section.
Phelan noted the policies before them are standard agreements used in other towns and municipalities that KP Law has serviced. Mary Ellen Fletcher asked about the timeline for completing the policy, expressing concern about delays and wanting to ensure they were helping the local vendor process applications in a timely manner, noting the issue had come up multiple times.
Phelan explained that they had reviewed the host community agreement multiple times, and KP Law subsequently advised they should have a social equity policy in place related to host community agreements. She noted they had put the cart before the horse but could now link everything together. Phelan indicated they didn’t need to delay passing the host community agreement and could put the social equity plan on the next agenda for passage at the following meeting, seeing no detriment to proceeding with one before the other since they had already reviewed the host community agreement multiple times.
Host Community Agreements Discussion (Link: 01:32:00 – 01:39:00)
Chair Katie Phelan asked Diane to put the social equity policy on the next agenda and request Mazzy’s attendance for the second review. She noted there are questions in the policy where KP Law suggested percentages, but the board needs to determine if they want to use those percentages, requiring a more in-depth conversation at the next meeting.
Phelan moved to the community host agreements, noting they have two separate agreements and would start with Terpene Journey. She mentioned they had reviewed these multiple times and had counsel present for Calyx previously. James McMahon, representing Terpene Journey, was present and thanked the board for having them.
Thompson asked if all the recommended changes in the agreement had been agreed to by Terpene Journey. McMahon said he wasn’t 100% sure if the version they were reviewing was the last one he had provided edits for to KP Law. Thompson offered to take a quick look at the document, and after reviewing, Phelan confirmed it was the updated version with agreed-upon proposed edits.
Thompson asked about the editing process, noting many struck-through items and questioning why certain language was being removed. He specifically referenced a “whereas” clause about the town recognizing its obligations to comply with requirements related to hosting an officially designated social equity company, expressing confusion about why Terpene Journey would want that language removed since it seemed beneficial to them.
A speaker indicated they had asked for another conversation about revisions but hadn’t heard back, suggesting they weren’t completely aligned on all language. McMahon agreed it might make sense to push the discussion to the next meeting to ensure they were on the same page regarding all language.
Phelan agreed with Thompson’s point, emphasizing they want to partner on a host community agreement that works for both parties. She noted they want to ensure whatever they review is agreed upon before passing it, otherwise if changes are made later, they would have to return to the board. A committee member agreed they would be back if changes were needed.
Phelan decided to table both host community agreements for Calyx Peak and Terpene Journey, putting them back on the next agenda for smoother processing. She said Mazzy would be present as the linchpin for smoother proceedings and would email McMahon and his attorney the following day to confirm they were reviewing the correct version with all questions answered. She requested both redlined and clean versions to ensure all changes were clearly identified. McMahon agreed this sounded like a good plan, and the agreements were moved to the meeting two weeks later.
Consent Agenda Approval (Link: 01:39:00 – 01:40:00)
Thompson noted the good news that they had reached this point in the meeting in just an hour and a half instead of three hours. Chair Katie Phelan acknowledged it was a Wednesday meeting, explaining they would return to Wednesday meetings in September, with Tuesday meetings only during summer due to the concert series.
Phelan outlined the remaining consent agenda items, which included appointment of the town planner that they had appointed previously but were concerned was incorrectly listed on the agenda without noting possible votes, a license for Swamptoberfest, and minutes from July 8th, July 22nd, and August 5th. A committee member moved to approve the consent agenda, which was seconded and approved by roll call vote with Fletcher, Thompson, a committee member, and Phelan all voting aye.
Cresta noted he couldn’t comment on the minutes but mentioned he was eliminated and not acknowledged as being present at those meetings despite being a town official. A committee member clarified this applied to the August 8th and 22nd meetings as amended. Phelan suggested a friendly amendment recognizing Cresta as a town official who should be listed among town officials present. She noted there was one meeting he wasn’t at, suggesting that might explain the discrepancy. Cresta thought the minutes preparer might have cut and pasted from previous minutes, continuing to omit him. Phelan agreed to check the recording and add Cresta to the minutes if he was present.
Select Board Committee Updates (Link: 01:40:00 – 01:46:00)
Cresta clarified he missed the meeting in June, not July. Chair Katie Phelan then moved to Select Board time, asking Mary Ellen Fletcher to go first.
Fletcher provided updates on the Solid Waste Advisory Committee, noting they are breaking off into a smaller group to assist with recommendations for the upcoming contract. The committee is also looking to create a “fix it clinic” that Fletcher would like to have on the agenda or consent agenda, pending board approval. She explained the clinic would use volunteers to fix broken small appliances and other items so people don’t have to throw them out and buy new ones, noting this is done in multiple communities. They are checking if it complies with the town’s insurance package before proceeding.
Fletcher reported that the Solid Waste Advisory Committee discussed helping seniors who cannot transport their recycling to the DPW, noting they have received multiple calls funneled through Town Hall and Cresta has been able to help. However, she indicated the issue may be growing larger than initially anticipated. Fletcher also mentioned that Cresta had commented on the election review committee, and she needs to schedule them to present their work in September or October for discussion about putting recommendations to town meeting, noting it likely doesn’t require votes, just recommendations.
A committee member provided an update on the Water Sewer Infrastructure Advisory Committee, reporting contact with the chair who is reviewing resumes and looking for technical expertise including scientists, researchers, and GIS professionals. The committee will meet the following night at 7:30 PM in the first floor conference room at Town Hall to discuss their scope and objectives. The committee member noted that while they had grand plans for 10-14 different initiatives when founded over a year ago, they’ve realized they need to narrow their scope and can’t be everything to everyone. This refined scope will help them procure the necessary expertise and talent. There have been no quorum issues, and they look forward to a presentation from Cresta, Kleinfelder, Liz Smith, and Matt Pelland about the UV pilot results for the Select Board and public.
Thompson provided a brief update on the Community Preservation Act, noting they are still waiting for final Attorney General approval on the bylaw to establish the Community Preservation Committee for items passed at town meeting. Once approved, committees that need to appoint someone have been notified, and they’ve been posting for the Select Board appointee with many applicants. Thompson asked about the 90-day timeline, and Phelan clarified it was August 31st based on information from Jared earlier.
Thompson suggested a September agenda item for community preservation, noting he’d be shocked if it wasn’t approved. He recommended sending a clear note to committees requesting appointments by September 15th. A committee member indicated they had already sent that notice, with Fletcher noting the committee is almost full. Phelan confirmed other committees have appointed people, including primary and alternates so alternates can vote when primaries are absent. Thompson suggested they could appoint the full committee by the second September meeting.
Select Board Goals and Future Planning (Link: 01:46:00 – 01:56:00)
Chair Katie Phelan announced that the second September meeting, which coincides with her husband’s birthday, will focus on discussing Select Board goals. She gave the board a month’s notice to think about it and asked Diane to pull the agenda from their previous Saturday meeting where they discussed Select Board goals. Phelan explained they would review goals in context, engage in self-reflection about whether they followed them, and determine if they still want to prioritize them in the same manner.
Phelan emphasized this discussion is imperative as they hire a new town administrator, noting they need to provide clear direction since they are the policy-making board. The town administrator should understand that their decisions running the town support the Select Board’s goals without having to ask for clarification. She requested Diane’s help in establishing quarterly check-ins for these goals going forward, believing this might help address transparency questions raised in various surveys about whether decisions are made based on transparent methodologies.
Phelan reported on her first tri-chair meeting, where they discussed what a financial summit might look like by reviewing prior financial summit agendas. The tri-chairs requested that goal setting be completed before the financial summit since it would drive much of the conversation. She noted that all board members have now met with new superintendent Jason Kalishman, appreciating his outreach efforts including appearances at farmers markets and the block party.
Phelan mentioned that several people have reached out wanting to help the school given the budget crisis, feeling they could do more individually. She has been meeting with Kalishman about creating a menu of one-time opportunities for people wanting to make significant donations to help alleviate issues on the school side, expressing excitement about spending someone else’s money for once.
Regarding the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee, Phelan addressed conversations about whether it should be reinstituted, noting some people have applied. However, she found that community meetings have been far more productive than the previous Traffic Advisory Study Committee because they allow neighbors to come together and decide what’s best for their neighborhood rather than having a board of non-residents make decisions. She noted that Officer Reen and Chief Cassada agree this is a better approach.
Cresta confirmed that after being part of traffic study committees for 20 years, the current setup without a formal board is the most effective they’ve had, with Kevin serving as the frontman who knocks on doors, talks to residents, and addresses issues immediately rather than waiting a month for meetings. A committee member agreed this approach removes well-intentioned but less knowledgeable volunteers from uncomfortable positions and allows professional staff to do their jobs.
Phelan stated that for the time being, they will not reinstate the Traffic Advisory Committee, though they reserve the right to change their minds. She mentioned the Community Life Center RFP that Cresta referenced in his report, noting they received many wonderful responses that she will review with committee members at the end of the week.
Thompson asked about the Community Life Center process, confirming it was an RFI (Request for Information) to understand the right scope before going back out for an RFP for someone to guide the assessment. Phelan explained they used this approach because they heard the message at town meeting about potentially utilizing existing stock in new ways or renovating to house projects, so they need to understand community needs before incorporating them into the RFP.
Phelan reported receiving a light pollution reduction policy from Open Space and Recreation that they’ve asked her to review before having a board conversation and potentially considering it for the next town meeting. She noted the town currently has no light pollution reduction policy, so this was created from scratch. She also mentioned the library board of trustees and the infographic about library successes that Jonathan has been presenting throughout the Commonwealth.
For the chapel update, Phelan asked Cresta to provide the information since he handles it better. Cresta reported meeting with the Andrews Chapel committee the previous Wednesday or Thursday night. They had worked with a consultant who proposed a plan but said he cannot take on the work until a year from October. Cresta planned to meet with him that week to see if they could expedite the work or get a recommendation for another qualified historic buildings architect.
Phelan noted it was unusual that the meeting was ending at only 8:30 PM. She then announced an important Hawthorne Reuse Committee meeting the following night from 7 to 10 PM in the high school auditorium. The meeting will include presentations of proposals, explanation of criteria used for those proposals, and public comment, hopefully early in the process. She emphasized this represents significant work by the committee and Mazzy, stressing the need for public engagement since they stopped a previous process because the community asked to be involved.
Phelan encouraged people who cannot attend to send emails to the board, which they will forward to the committee. She noted there would be one more public session, believed to be on September 18th. Mary Ellen Fletcher confirmed the meeting would be taped and mentioned there would also be a survey for public participation. Fletcher explained that only 15 to 20 minutes is reserved for committee discussion, with the rest dedicated to public comment for people to share their thoughts, emphasizing the meeting is designed for listening to the public.
Meeting Adjournment (Link: 01:56:00 – 01:57:00)
A committee member moved to adjourn the meeting. Thompson seconded the motion and called for a roll call vote. The motion to adjourn was approved with Fletcher, Thompson, a committee member, and Chair Katie Phelan all voting aye. Phelan thanked everyone, and the board members exchanged good nights as the meeting concluded.
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