The board devoted attention to the ongoing search for a permanent location for the Council on Aging. The COA presented a detailed space needs assessment, which concluded that a facility of approximately 10,000 to 14,000 square feet was necessary to meet the community’s requirements. This assessment took into account feedback gathered from public meetings and newsletters, although the process was largely volunteer-driven, with no engineering funds allocated. The report highlighted the potential of the fieldhouse on Central Street, though concerns were raised about its isolation from other town activities. A preference was expressed for a site adjacent to the library on Kent Way, which would maintain the beneficial synergy of a high-traffic area.

The timing of this meeting was debated, with a Saturday morning suggested to maximize attendance. The board recognized the necessity of making the COA’s report accessible, particularly for seniors who may not have digital access, by providing physical copies at the COA and library.

Concerns were raised about the town’s reliance on rented spaces for key services, emphasizing the financial implications. The board acknowledged the need to address these issues and move towards owning facilities, as is standard in most municipalities. The COA’s report dismissed certain citizen recommendations, such as converting the library into a dual-use space, due to impracticality given the investments in the library’s infrastructure.

In addition to the COA discussions, the board accepted a $41,000 grant from the Massachusetts Office of Disability for municipal ADA improvements. This grant, provisionally approved, will support various disability-related enhancements. Acknowledgment was given to the efforts of those involved in securing the grant, with unanimous approval from the board.

The board also accepted a $500 grant from Bradford and Lyanna Gallagher for the Newbury Police Department, directed to the department’s gift funds account. The board unanimously approved this unsolicited donation, expressing appreciation for the support of the police department.

The Massachusetts Cultural Council awarded Newbury $5,700 for fiscal year 26-LC-LCC-2471, aimed at supporting cultural activities. The board approved this grant without discussion, emphasizing the importance of cultural engagement within the community.

A new business license for Retro Warehouse LLC was approved, alongside the renewal of 20 business licenses, covering a range of services from automotive to dog boarding.

The board set the date for the 2026 annual town meeting for May 5, 2026, to ensure the venue at Triton Regional High School was available, with the town election following on May 12, 2026. This decision was made with consideration of past venue issues.

The Town Administrator provided updates on a range of topics, including the submission of the tax recap sheet and the certification of a stable tax rate. Efforts to fill the assistant town clerk position were mentioned, along with the welcoming of a new laborer to the Department of Public Works (DPW). A tentative agreement on the DPW contract was noted, with plans to present it in January. The Salvation Army’s emergency overnight shelter opening in Newbury Port was announced, set to begin on January 5th.

Updates on the municipal aggregation program were shared, noting Newbury’s lower current rates compared to National Grid’s proposed rate for February 2026. The DPW called for additional plow drivers in anticipation of winter weather.

School building committee discussions included updates on a feasibility study at Whittier, utilizing past components to reduce costs, and the Triton School’s progress with the Massachusetts School Building Authority. A communications subcommittee was formed to plan future project communications.