The meeting opened with discussions on the application for a Class 2 used car license for Jared’s Auto Wholesalers. The board acknowledged previous technical issues and expressed gratitude for Mr. Marinelli’s patience during the process. The existing license at the location, held by Mr. Knox, was amended to allow a more manageable operation with 25 cars instead of 50. The motion to amend Knox’s license was approved, enabling Marinelli to proceed with his business plans.

Attention then shifted to the police department’s staffing challenges. A representative from Badge Quest, Inc. presented their selection to conduct a promotional assessment center for police chief and deputy chief positions. The structured assessment process adheres to Massachusetts Civil Service standards and aims to ensure fairness and transparency. The timeline for the assessment center was outlined, with a request for the board to appoint a primary contact person to facilitate communication. Discussions emphasized the importance of maintaining the assessment’s integrity, especially with provisional chief Gary Coppa participating.

The board recognized the need for prepared leadership, stressing the importance of a second-in-command to avoid disruptions. Concerns were also raised about staffing gaps due to retirements and officer deployments, which have increased reliance on overtime. The board debated the necessity of hiring additional patrol officers and dispatch staff, highlighting the strain on current personnel. Emphasis was placed on exploring lateral transfers and civil service lists for new recruits. The board expressed willingness to meet as needed to expedite the hiring process and address these shortages effectively.

In a related discussion, a representative from a flagger company proposed providing traffic detail services to fill gaps left by unaccepted details. The board acknowledged the potential benefits of civilian flaggers, including retired police officers, but emphasized the need to balance job availability for local officers with community needs. A previous contract aimed at creating opportunities for officers was noted, alongside financial burdens faced by towns due to unfilled details.

The board also discussed public safety at a busy intersection during a Lions Club fundraiser. Concerns about allowing volunteers to direct traffic were raised, with safety and liability issues highlighted. The police chief expressed reluctance to approve the proposal without a clear policy, prompting suggestions to relocate activities to less congested areas. The board recognized the Lions Club’s efforts but stressed that safety must remain a priority.

Further deliberations involved the reclamation and paving of Morningside A, with approval of up to $110,000 from chapter 90 funds for the project. A single article for a special town meeting was introduced, proposing funds for a utility van with aerial lift capabilities for the Acushnet CATV department. The board confirmed the expenditure would not impact taxpayers, as it would be drawn from cable fees. Safety concerns about current maintenance practices led to approval of the funding.

In the latter part of the meeting, a member announced their decision not to seek reelection in the spring, citing personal reasons and the desire to allow others to consider the position. The member reassured colleagues of their commitment to completing ongoing projects, despite their impending departure.