The meeting opened with recognition of the Historic District Commission’s 50-year milestone. A representative provided an overview of the commission’s history, explaining its establishment in 1975 following Massachusetts General Law 4C. The local historic district, which spans Ashland, Bridge, Bennett, Washington, and Summer Streets, remains unchanged since the 1990 creation of the National Register of Historic Places District. The commission has been pivotal in maintaining the town’s historical character through rigorous guidelines for building permits. Notable projects include the enhancement of common areas and restoration of Greek Revival buildings. The board unanimously approved a motion to commend the commission’s efforts over the past half-century.

Attention then turned to the town’s fiscal achievements, notably receiving the Government Finance Officers Association’s annual comprehensive financial report award for the ninth consecutive year. This accolade highlights the town’s excellence in financial reporting and management, reflecting positively on its administrative practices.

A financial discussion centered on the fire department’s reserve fund transfer request. The finance committee approved a $13,239 transfer to match a FEMA grant for essential fire equipment, totaling over $260,000. The urgency of this request stems from expiring equipment. The board approved accepting the FEMA grant, which will help meet national staffing standards and reduce overtime costs through improved training.

The Downtown Improvement Committee’s restructuring emerged as another focal point. The committee’s original charter was updated to better align with contemporary practices, emphasizing not just infrastructure but also policies for downtown commercial success. A new mission statement was approved.

The Select Board also addressed the appointment process for the Finance Committee. Concerns were raised over transparency, as the position had not been publicly posted. The board decided to delay the appointment process, allowing for public submissions and interviews.

In addition to these discussions, the board tackled the appointment of a new member to the Manchester Housing Authority. Brian was the sole candidate, having expressed a keen interest in public housing and community service. His appointment was contingent upon legal confirmation that he could hold positions on both the planning board and the housing authority.

Further deliberations involved the cultural council, where four new members were appointed. The council aims to enhance community engagement through cultural initiatives, supported by grant funding. Members proposed conducting a survey to gather public input on desired programs.

Infrastructure was a recurring theme throughout the meeting, with updates on road and sidewalk repairs. The Department of Public Works is working on projects across town, including Mill Street and Beach Street, with ongoing coordination with the conservation commission. The library trustees reported on efforts to improve accessibility, including the installation of an ADA-compliant bathroom and a changing table for larger children and adults.

The Essex Elementary Building Program was another significant topic, with a vote scheduled for November 2026. Discussions focused on potential school sites and grade configurations, with the Apple Street site requiring town-funded infrastructure improvements. The Board of Health addressed safety compliance issues at a local property, mandating immediate corrective actions.

Financial discussions included the review of the year-end financial report and budget preparations. The finance committee is evaluating leftover funds for sidewalk projects, and department heads are submitting capital requests. The town is also preparing to apply for the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness program, with regional collaboration in progress.

The meeting concluded with updates on the Lincoln Street Well project, addressing PFAS contamination. The project, supported by an EPA grant, is progressing with design and development, focusing on effective water purification solutions. Financial strategies, including potential zero percent loans and debt forgiveness, were discussed to support the project’s substantial costs.