Masconomo Park’s redevelopment stood as the centerpiece of the meeting, with three conceptual designs presented by Fuss and O’Neal. Each design was crafted with resilience in mind, taking into account the park’s vulnerability to coastal flood events and tidal inundation. The proposed improvements include elevated boardwalks, reconfigured parking, and an expanded playground area. The board debated over the proposed changes, considering the impact on the park’s natural environment and the associated costs. Although no immediate decisions were made, the members emphasized the importance of community input and the ongoing process of gathering feedback before implementing any changes.

The town’s wayfinding project also captured the board’s attention, with a presentation on the design and placement of new signage. Two options were considered: one featuring color and another a silhouette rendering of the town’s recognizable Rotunda. The board unanimously favored the color rendition, focusing on visibility, legibility, and functionality for both pedestrians and drivers. Six to eight initial signs were approved to move forward, with the board directing the installation to proceed, funded by a state grant and estimated to cost around $45,000, excluding installation expenses. The signs aim to enhance navigation to key locations, such as parking areas and the train station, while supporting local businesses.

The Select Board also addressed a resident’s request to touch up the stone wall at Circle Beach park and entertained his desire to have his name removed from the Community Star Award. Additionally, the board appointed Georgia P. Grass as a full member and Diane Lindquist as the first alternate member of the Zoning Board of Appeals after conducting interviews. Both candidates presented their qualifications, with Grass highlighting her background in zoning and Lindquist focusing on her legal experience.

Further discussions included a proposed filming at Singing Beach, which the board supported in concept, pending finalization of details such as dates and police arrangements. Moreover, the board considered the submission of a draft zoning plan to the state for a preliminary review for compliance with state law. The draft was previously reviewed by the Town Council, with the Planning Board confirming that recent changes were not substantive. The aim is to finalize the review by October in preparation for a special meeting in mid-November.

Other topics touched upon during the meeting included the status of the zoning task force, advertising rules at Highland Field, parking placard concerns for property owners using rental cars, and a plan to review the past year’s achievements in an upcoming retreat. The Board of Health’s new regulations for well testing were also discussed, emphasizing the enforcement of testing requirements for existing irrigation systems.