Select Board — June 16, 2026

The request was for $3,129.00 from the Emergency Facility Repair and Energy Efficiency Fund. The funds are intended for a new snow blower and unforeseen repairs to the third-floor emergency exterior stairs at Town Hall to meet code compliance.

The public hearing was closed and the release of funds was approved unanimously.

Two separate applications were presented for Pine Tree Waste and Kelley T. Albano (dba Seacoast Waste Services). No public comment was provided during either hearing.

Both licenses were granted with 4-0-1 votes; Chairman Ekstedt abstained from both.

The Highway Department was commended for road clearing during recent storms, and Albert Hubbard was recognized for 43 years of service. Regarding the harbor, ACE confirmed the dredge met volume goals, removing over 138,000 yards of material.

The Board noted the successful completion of the dredge and the movement of equipment out of the harbor.

Spring tides are expected to restore sand to the beaches.

The Board reviewed a total expense warrant of $2,164,537.50 covering general expenses, school payments, net payroll for three weeks, and various taxes. A separate General Assistance warrant of $3,666.90 was also reviewed.

Both the main warrant and the General Assistance warrant were approved unanimously.

A committee consisting of Selectman Chase, mechanic Rob Dupuis, and driver Wade Hanscom reviewed the bids. They recommended a Western Star from O’Connor Motor Co. paired with sanders from H.P. Fairfield.

The Board unanimously approved the purchase for a total price of $174,426.00.

The committee is intended to be short-term, expiring June 30, 2015, unless renewed. It will consist of a Selectman, the Public Works Commissioner, the Town Manager (or designee), and six citizens. Its primary task is assisting in selecting a third-party user for space at the Transfer Station.

The proposal to set up the committee and begin interviewing applicants was approved 4-0-1, with Ekstedt abstaining.

Interviewing applicants.

LD1483 would impose fees on communities using landfills to fund those using incinerators. Mr. Ekstedt argued the bill supports outdated technology and noted that the State lacks a master plan for solid waste. It was noted that incinerator companies support the bill, while the Governor and DEP appear opposed.

The Board unanimously authorized the Town Manager to sign an amended letter expressing the Town's position.

Testimony at the January 9 public hearing.

Updates included minor property damage on Drakes Island during dredge equipment removal, the upcoming removal of a pipe on Atlantic Avenue, and the review of FEMA flood maps by the Town Engineer. Also mentioned was the restaurant RFP process and a public meeting regarding a high school project.

The report served as an informational update for the Board and public.

Public information meeting on January 14 regarding the high school project; Restaurant RFP proposals due January 17.