The meeting also saw the recognition of first responders with a proclamation issued in honor of Emergency Medical Services week, celebrating the vital public service they provide. The board expressed its appreciation for the town’s emergency personnel and encouraged community participation in observing the week with suitable programs and activities.

Another proclamation was voted on and passed, recognizing the 55th annual Professional Municipal Clerks Week, highlighting the clerks’ indispensable role in local government operations and extending gratitude to these professionals for their diligent work.

The discussion advanced to the community program director’s announcement of the availability of kayak rack rental spaces at Halfway Park, which was well received by the board. The summer concert series proposal, including exclusive use of the bandstand on certain dates, was approved, with plans for parking, admission fees, and vendors such as food trucks and an ice cream truck. The possibility of adding a beer and wine truck at future events was also suggested. Additionally, the board permitted exclusive use of the bandstand for a library-run children’s music program on a designated date.

Debate ensued over two new articles for the annual town meeting and special town meeting warrants; one concerning retiree health insurance costs for spouses and the other involving a grant to map the water and sewer infrastructure. Questions arose about the allocation of grant funds, the reimbursement process, and how it would affect the water and sewer Enterprise funds reserves. The board called for further information before making a decision.

In the realm of infrastructure, the board approved a supplemental contract for pavement improvements on Kelly and Quog Road, discussed by Chuck, the engineer for the project. This approval came with an additional cost of $8,000. The request for proposal for the fence at Hathway Park was awarded to Straight Line Fencing. For IT support services, the board awarded the sole bid to Netro Spec.

The meeting covered the contract for chip milling and pavement, awarding it to PJ Keating Company. Additionally, the board approved a business associate agreement with Coastal Medical Billing for ambulance runs, specifying the percentage charged for billing services.

The board voted to close the transfer station for training on a designated date, emphasizing the importance of highway department training. They also discussed a peddler’s license request from Sunrun JLA Consulting and stressed the importance of proper identification and communication for safety reasons.

Matters of communication included the approval of a postcard design, print, and mail service for the upcoming town meeting, opting for a colored 8.5 by 11 folded postcard despite the additional cost. Personnel matters were attended to with several appointments to town boards and committees, and Carlos Lopes was appointed as the representative for union negotiations with regional school districts. The Town Administrator updated the board on the completion of a radio communication project and recognized employees for their work on various town events and successful grant applications, including one that secured funding for new gear for the fire department.

The board then deliberated on the disposal of three abandoned boats, declaring them abandoned and discussing the disposal process involving the highway department. They also voted to extend the agreement for the creation of a hazard mitigation plan and approved expenses for witnesses in a legal case.

In closing, the selectmen sought input on the use of remaining Opa funds for community projects. Suggestions included renovating basketball courts with added lighting and seating, reducing noise around train tracks, and improving ADA accessibility at Halfway Park and Port Pasture.