The drive-in site utilization committee’s update was a centerpiece of the discussion. The committee reported on the execution of the phase one contract with Robert B. Our Marine Division for the Riverwalk Park project, funded by various sources and amounting to approximately $9 million. The project, which promises to enhance community spaces and drive local engagement, includes a park entrance sign and has now reached a stage where naming the park is imminent. The board entertained proposals for a naming contest or a formal vote, seeking to engage the community in the process. Furthermore, the board authorized a plank sale campaign, setting plank prices at $350 for individuals, $450 for nonprofits, and $550 for local businesses. Funds from these sales will be allocated towards the construction, maintenance, and operation of the park.

Another major topic was the discussion of an entertainment license for Shrim Inc, doing business as Freebird Motor Lodge. The applicant, Parth Patel, sought approval for live and recorded outdoor music to complement the hotel’s music-themed ambiance. While the request aimed to include acoustic performances with a 70s rock theme during daytime hours, concerns over noise disturbances were raised by local residents. Two letters opposing the license due to past noise issues were read, and several residents voiced their concerns during the public comments section of the meeting. Despite these concerns, the board considered an amended proposal that included restrictions on the number of musicians and hours of operation, with the possibility of a trial period for the entertainment license.

The Select Board also addressed the issue of emergency services in the town by discussing a Regional Emergency Communications Center intermunicipal agreement. The agreement aims to establish a regional entity to streamline emergency communications, with the possibility of securing a state grant. The formation of an operations committee, comprising public safety chiefs, was proposed to oversee budget, staffing, and dispatching protocols. While the board was largely in favor of the initiative, they expressed the need to ensure that current staff would be protected and that smaller towns would have an equitable voice in decision-making.

The meeting further delved into the town’s financial practices. Town Finance Director Jennifer Mullen presented a revised investment policy, emphasizing the necessity of safe, liquid, and yield-focused funds in compliance with Massachusetts General Laws. The board discussed past investment issues and the importance of adhering to conservative investment strategies. Additionally, the Public Works director and assistant director proposed an increase in construction and demolition fees.

An innovative paint stewardship program was introduced with the potential to reduce waste and prevent pollution by allowing residents to return unwanted paint to participating retail stores without incurring disposal costs. While the program was met with interest and support, there were concerns about logistics and the need for a review by the town’s recycling and solid waste committee, which the board decided to refer for further consideration.

The board also took a step towards improving public safety and emergency response by approving an annual entertainment license for the Firebird Motel. The license allows for live acoustic music in the outdoor pool area, with restrictions to minimize noise disturbances.

In other business, the board handled administrative matters such as appointing a temporary manager for Cape Cod Farms Roman n3 LLC and addressing an order for construction for phase one of the sewer project. The latter was a procedural move to preserve the town’s right to assess betterments on properties affected by the project as required by law.

The meeting concluded with discussions on various other topics, including a town administrator merit pay, golf hazards, and veterans discounts for beach and dump stickers. The board also approved the consent agenda, which included the Chamber of Commerce’s annual request for approval of a special entertainment license for the summer concert series.