The focal point of the meeting was the allocation of ten mooring permits to Manchester Marine, which sparked debate among board members and the public. Concerns were raised about whether the issuance of these permits adhered to the proper protocols outlined in state and local regulations. A participant detailed that, per Massachusetts statutes, mooring assignments should be based on a fair process using a waitlist. However, it was argued that Manchester Marine received permits without being on this list, leading to accusations of procedural irregularities and favoritism.

Legal counsel Michelle Randazzo clarified that the harbor master has the statutory authority to regulate moorings, while the Select Board may only adopt overarching rules. She emphasized that any disputes regarding mooring assignments fall under the jurisdiction of the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Throughout the discussion, it became clear that the relationship between local and state regulations is complex and requires careful navigation to maintain transparency and public confidence in harbor operations.

The debate extended to the nature of commercial moorings and their distinction from recreational ones. Manchester Marine’s alterations to mooring configurations, designed to enhance safety and capacity, were seen by some as justification for bypassing the usual waitlist procedures. Others argued that these changes did not warrant a departure from established protocols, asserting that the harbor regulations should not be selectively applied.

In conjunction with this discussion, allegations against the harbor master were raised. A motion was proposed to convene a special meeting between the Harbor Advisory Committee and the Select Board to address these claims. Board members expressed differing opinions on the timing of this meeting, considering an ongoing investigation by the inspector general concerning the harbor master’s actions related to the moorings. Some urged for transparency and prompt action, while others recommended waiting for the findings from the investigation to ensure informed decision-making.

Another topic was the enforcement of parking regulations at local beaches, particularly the proposed increase in non-resident parking fees at Singing Beach from $30 to $35 for the next season. This increase was positioned as aligning with regional standards, though some board members questioned the urgency of its implementation outside the usual budgetary process. The board also discussed the implications of parking enforcement on local commerce, noting that effective management of parking spaces is vital for the town’s economic vitality.

The meeting also delved into infrastructure developments, notably the upcoming paving project on Mill and Forest Streets. This project will necessitate temporary road closures and detours, prompting the board to plan resident communications through mailers and digital message boards. Concerns were raised about the potential for increased traffic on alternative routes and whether additional police presence would be required to manage the situation.

Further, the board received updates on administrative matters, such as the approval of new burn permits and the status of quarterly reports from the police and fire chiefs. The town administrator highlighted ongoing staffing challenges due to extended leaves within the police department, yet praised the chiefs for their effective management and community engagement efforts. The report also noted the success of parking enforcement, which had generated substantial revenue from fines.

Community engagement was another point of focus, with discussions on improving communication norms within the local government. A board member stressed the need for setting clear expectations for email responses to enhance responsiveness and operational efficiency. The board also addressed the appointment of a new registrar, Byron Wyn, to the Board of Registrars, following the Republican Town Committee’s timely nomination and the late submission from the Democratic Committee.

The meeting concluded with notes on community updates, including ongoing street works, historical commission activities, and school budget discussions. The board also considered a proposal to expand senior transportation services, the efficacy of current bike and pedestrian safety policies, and efforts to address vacancies on the housing authority.