The board’s attention was focused on the 90 Bridge Street project, particularly the boathouse renovation. Greg Burman, director of natural resources, presented a bid report revealing that the sole bid for the boathouse renovation exceeded the budget by approximately $300,000. Robert Bau, the sole bidder, submitted a proposal that outstripped financial expectations due to unforeseen changes in project scope and a shift to a smaller building than initially planned. Rick Pomeroy, the project manager, noted that alterations such as adding a mezzanine for mechanical systems were not part of the original design, contributing to the increased cost.

The board expressed concern over the lack of competitive bids despite significant efforts to attract multiple contractors. Pomeroy explained that while 11 parties had shown initial interest, the specialized nature of the work deterred many from submitting bids. This revelation prompted discussions about the town’s procurement practices and the necessity for more proactive engagement with potential bidders to ensure competitive pricing in future projects.

Additionally, the seawater system project faced scrutiny due to a dramatic increase in cost estimates. Initially pegged at $800,000, the project bid soared to approximately $1.5 million, raising eyebrows among board members. The proposed system aimed to improve efficiency and increase capacity for shellfish operations by transitioning from multiple small pumps to a single high-volume pump. However, the board questioned whether this redesign might be over-engineered, particularly given the critical reliance on a single pump.

The board discussed the strategic importance of securing funding from the Seaport Economic Council, with $214,262 earmarked for fiscal year 2026. Burman emphasized the urgency of finalizing contracts before the end of June to avoid losing this grant.

Conversations also touched on the financial and logistical aspects of the project, with some members voicing skepticism about the management of town funds. Concerns were raised about the transparency of the project’s financial status, with some members questioning the true cost to taxpayers and urging for a clearer breakdown of expenditures. Others defended the board’s efforts to maintain transparency and reiterated the phased nature of the project, which involved multiple procurements rather than a single contract.

Aside from infrastructure discussions, the meeting also addressed the approval of a one-day alcohol license for the Creative Arts Center’s summer gathering. Amy Middleton, representing the center, detailed the event’s arrangements, including local distributor partnerships and ticket sales as a fundraising mechanism. The board unanimously approved the license, recognizing the event’s significance for the local arts community.

The meeting concluded with routine matters, including town license applications and updates on committee memberships. A recommendation from the zoning board of appeals led to the elevation of Lee Huby from associate to full member status until 2028. The board also reviewed the town manager’s monthly report, which highlighted ongoing projects, including the new water treatment facility for wells five and eight, expected to enhance water supply management.