The most notable topic discussed at the meeting was the transition from Republic to Cassella for waste management services, a change necessitated by unfavorable contract terms and service disruptions experienced with the previous vendor. The Select Board detailed the timeline leading up to the switch, emphasizing the challenges faced during negotiations. Republic’s rejection of proposed contract changes just before the expiration prompted the town to explore alternatives. The neighboring towns’ transition from Republic to Cassella, which led to Republic laying off several employees and losing contracts, played a role in Cassella’s increased interest in serving Manchester-By-The-Sea.

The new contract with Cassella includes more favorable terms, such as the elimination of labor strikes from the force majeure clause and the change in legal title of waste, which ensures Cassella assumes liability once trash is collected. Additionally, provisions for non-performance liquidated damages, absent in the prior agreement, are now part of the contract. Residents were informed of this transition, which includes shifting to automated collection by September and potential temporary service disruptions. The Select Board stressed the importance of clear communication to residents, acknowledging past frustrations caused by last-minute notifications.

A public process is anticipated to determine specifics of the rollout, including the size of trash and recycling barrels and whether fees will be incurred for these. The board discussed options ranging from 35 to 96-gallon barrels, and the possibility of continuing the use of orange bags for overflow. The financial implications of this transition were also considered, with an anticipated $600,000 budgetary change due to increased costs and reduced revenue from bag sales. The board acknowledged the need for public meetings to discuss implementation strategies and financing, with the aim of engaging residents and providing consistent updates during this transition.

In addition to the waste management contract, the Select Board discussed water restrictions resulting from a malfunctioning pump at the Lincoln Street well. The town is under a level three critical drought designation, prompting a water ban that prohibits the use of sprinklers but allows hand watering and drip irrigation during specific hours. The board intends to maintain these restrictions until a new pump is installed, with updates expected soon. Concerns were raised about the impact of the ban on residents’ irrigation systems used for landscaping and food production, highlighting the need for clearer communication and potential adjustments to the restrictions.

The Select Board also tackled the management of affordable housing units, focusing on the processes involved in setting rents and the current status of applications. It was noted that no units have gone through the lottery process for filling vacancies, and the town’s role is primarily to review and approve proposed rents. Concerns were raised about the turnover of housing management and delays in signing regulatory agreements with the Northshore CDC, which are important for moving forward with the lottery process. The need for improved communication and coordination between the Affordable Housing Trust and other stakeholders was emphasized, with a plan to revisit these matters in future meetings.

The meeting continued with updates on various liaison activities, including school holiday schedules, joint initiatives with Gloucester focusing on human services for seniors, and the bidding process for a $4 million water project. The board also addressed the necessity of completing signatory tasks related to a cell tower lease extension and concluded with administrative formalities before adjourning.