The discussion prominently featured advancements in GPS technology, which has dramatically improved the accuracy of land surveys. Previously, historical coordinates from the late 1800s and early 1900s were often imprecise, varying by up to ten feet. Modern GPS technology has reduced these discrepancies to within a tenth of a foot or just a couple of inches. This increase in precision allows for better understanding and depiction of town lines on subdivision plans. The meeting noted that several GPS-related projects are nearing completion, with plans to present the final project in the upcoming meeting. This will be followed by a period of saturation until existing projects reach completion.

The meeting also focused on the extensive report presented by Patrick Higgins, the County Surveyor, detailing various projects undertaken by the North County Engineering Department. Among the key projects discussed was the ongoing work on Oakland Street in Millis, which encompasses retracing the right-of-way and developing topographic details for future improvements. The fieldwork for this project is nearly complete, with drafting of plans underway. Higgins also reported on the completed boundary and topographic detail survey for the Medway Community Farm, which facilitated the construction of a pavilion and restroom, emphasizing the importance of compliance with conservation requirements.

Efforts to address flooding issues at the Department of Agricultural and Business Works were another focus. Higgins reported that a boundary survey and an existing condition survey led to the design and construction of new drainage solutions. He described this project as complex, resulting in a complete shed replacement. Furthermore, plans for a boundary survey of Oak Grove Farm in Millis were discussed, prompted by concerns about encroachment from neighboring properties. Additionally, there was a request for mapping the interior roadways at Prospect Hill Cemetery to aid visitors in locating interments.

A younger team member, Patrick Rockwell, was introduced as working on establishing new control points throughout the county to improve surveying accuracy. This initiative, aimed at adding new GPS benchmarks to the National Geodetic Survey’s database, is expected to enhance flood control maps and elevation certifications. Higgins anticipated that several towns would soon see these new control points incorporated into the national database.

Several infrastructure projects funded by ARPA were also addressed. The meeting specified that renovations of tennis courts and a parking lot are under contract, with construction having commenced the previous week. The contractor is reportedly progressing well, with the expectation of completing the project by November. The renovations include resurfacing courts and improvements for ADA compliance, such as wider gate access and new ramps.

The meeting briefly touched on the outreach efforts made by Patrick, who has been instrumental in promoting engineering services to underrepresented communities. The outreach included contacting municipalities that had not utilized county services in recent years, emphasizing the value these services add to local projects.

Personnel matters were also on the agenda. Appointments at the North County Agricultural High School were approved, including a guidance counselor and instructors, effective from August 25, 2025. Additionally, the retirement of Lori Pelleter as a 183-day instructor was approved, with a retirement date set for June 30, 2025. The resignation of Jessica Deora as a vocational assistant principal was also approved, effective September 22, 2025, with the board expressing well wishes for her future endeavors.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on using the President’s Golf Course for promotional filming by the Sam Adams Company. An agreement for filming on August 11 was reviewed and approved, with the company agreeing to pay $1,500 for facility use. The meeting adjourned at 1:39 PM, with a note about the next meeting scheduled for the following week.