The most pressing topic of the evening was the potential acquisition of 330 acres of land near Manchester-By-The-Sea. The Select Board discussed the implications of purchasing the land for approximately $3 million, with a $250,000 funding request from the town. The acquisition, spearheaded by the Essex County Green Belt, aims to preserve the land for conservation and prevent residential development. Concerns were raised about the financial commitment, with some members questioning the justification for the price and the potential benefits to the town. The urgency of the decision was emphasized due to a looming contract deadline shortly after the first of the year and the need to finalize the deal by the end of June to utilize state funding.

The debate also touched on the town’s conservation goals and the importance of prioritizing projects for funding. A proposal was made to revisit the issue in mid-December to better understand the community’s needs and input. Some participants expressed a preference for maintaining a portion of the land for possible future use by the town. However, it was noted that the acquisition was an all-or-nothing proposition, with the seller, Dormandy, only interested in selling the entire 330 acres.

In addition to the land acquisition discussion, the Select Board highlighted the issue of affordable housing. One member emphasized that “we are woefully behind on housing,” stressing the need for increased funding for affordable housing initiatives. The urgency of addressing housing needs was underscored, with a figure of $250,000 mentioned as insufficient. It was suggested that the Community Preservation Committee (CPC) could consider increasing their contributions, with a potential discussion slated for a future meeting.

The Board also addressed updates from the Senior Care representative, Scott FR, CEO of Senior Care. Scott detailed their outreach efforts in nine communities, including Manchester, and highlighted collaboration with local organizations to address community needs. He mentioned a new initiative from the state’s Executive Office of Health and Human Services aimed at identifying individuals in nursing facilities who wish to return to their communities. Scott acknowledged that affordable housing remains a challenge throughout Massachusetts, complicating these efforts.

The meeting also included a discussion on accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and the implications of the recent Portable Housing Act. Concerns were raised about the potential for a rush in ADU construction that could lead to an increase in short-term rental properties, undermining the intended purpose of ADUs to address housing shortages. The Select Board discussed the need to update existing bylaws regarding short-term rentals, noting that current regulations only apply to rentals of six days or less, leaving many rentals unregulated. There was a consensus that the town should proactively modernize its laws to address these issues, considering models from other communities.

Another topic was the Meals on Wheels program, which serves approximately 20 meals a day in Manchester-By-The-Sea, adhering to strict federal guidelines to ensure nutritional quality. The program’s importance was emphasized, particularly as it is well-promoted through the Council on Aging’s monthly newsletter. Recognition was given to the medical transportation drivers who continued their services during the pandemic.

The Select Board also discussed a downtown improvement initiative, noting the Planning Board’s consideration of forming a task force to develop a master plan for the downtown area. The conversation highlighted the absence of a clear vision for the downtown and the General District, with members noting the need for a comprehensive strategy that could include adjustments to zoning regulations.

Additionally, the meeting covered the definition and regulation of water events, with a focus on permits and responsibilities of event organizers. There was a suggestion to ask the Harbor Committee for insights to ensure the town’s resources are not overwhelmed, particularly in terms of emergency services.

Finally, the Select Board addressed the trimming of the Friendship tree and the installation of a flagpole on the town common. The Board reached a consensus to trim the tree rather than replace it and discussed the appropriate placement of the flagpole to avoid interference with an existing tree planted in memory of a local figure.