Select Board: July 23, 2025

Note on this transcript. This summary was derived from the official meeting minutes (data/minutes/school_committee/select_board/2025-07-23.cleaned.txt). The minutes are the authoritative record. The Select Board records its meetings to MHTV; the per-meeting Vimeo URL for July 23, 2025 has not been resolved here. For verbatim quotes, please cross-check against the official approved minutes.

Public comment (approx. 7:00 - 7:03 PM)

Nick Ward (remote) addressed the Board about the list of infrastructure projects the Town may now have to find alternative funding for due to noncompliance with the MBTA 3A Bylaw. Asked the Town Administrator to track additional funding sources for those infrastructure projects, particularly focused on potential cost increases from delays and maintenance expenses during the wait for permanent repairs.

Town Administrator update (approx. 7:03 - 7:10 PM)

Elm Street Park

During construction, a 7-foot-deep cistern from 1858, built of granite blocks, was discovered on the site. After obtaining additional funding from the Board, the team integrated the granite blocks into the park design, creating steps and seating. Remaining granite blocks taken by public works for future use. Project funded partially through ARPA and neighborhood fundraising; each phase dependent on securing further funding.

Marine Corps 250th Anniversary

Part of Marine Week in Boston celebrating the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Marine Corps. Potential event scheduled in Marblehead at Fort Sewall on August 21, 2025: ceremony, silent drill, and cake cutting; approximately 3 hours total. Main Marine Week activities begin in Boston August 20. Marblehead’s event recognizes the town’s historical connection to the Marine Corps. The Town Administrator will coordinate with department heads and bring more details (including potential parking restrictions) to the Board at a future meeting.

Ambulance contract (approx. 7:10 - 7:30 PM)

John Morris, President of Beauport Ambulance Services, Inc., appeared before the Board. The Town Administrator walked through the contract.

This is a joint contract between Marblehead, Swampscott, and Beauport Ambulance Services. Approved by Swampscott the night before (July 22, 2025). Provides enhanced competitiveness; includes provisions for response times, performance oversight, and a 6-month notification period for either municipality to opt out.

Beauport, which has experience serving multiple towns, will provide one fully staffed ALS ambulance and additional BLS coverage with new co-branded vehicles. The contract includes a 5% annual profit donation to community organizations and begins on August 15, 2025. Beauport has already acquired and prepared the new ambulances. Transition expected to be seamless – the previous provider has agreed to an orderly handover.

Beauport offers modern equipment, better employee retention, and dedicated service, expected to improve response times and service levels. Potential cost savings due to a zero bid and the fact that the new provider handles replacements for medical supplies, which were previously a separate cost to the organization.

After discussion, motion made and seconded to approve the contract between the Town and Beauport Ambulance Services, Inc., as presented and prepared by Town Counsel. All in favor.

Licensing and consent items (approx. 7:30 - 7:45 PM)

Secondhand Dealer. Steven Manchini appeared before the Board seeking a Secondhand Dealers License. Approved for Marblehead Custom Jewelry, 66 Washington Street, subject to receipt of required fees, forms, and CORI approval.

Private Drain Connection. 18 Orchard Street. License between the Town and Doug Larose and Bella James approved.

Minutes. May 28, 2025 minutes approved 4-in-favor with Mr. Zisson voting present. June 25, 2025 minutes approved unanimously.

Contracts. Two actions:

• Amend 2024-041 Marblehead Rail Trail Smith Street to Pleasant Street with Raffaele Construction Corp of Swampscott — extended performance to September 30, 2025; no change to total contract amount.
• Award Professional Engineering Service to Woodard & Curran, Inc. of Andover, MA — not to exceed $195,000.

Permission. YukanRun.com half marathon approved for April 12, 2026, 9:00 AM start, subject to Police, Fire, and School Department approvals, police details, required Certificate of Liability, no permanent markings.

1-day liquor licenses. Two licenses approved for the Kearsarge Lodge at Abbot Hall on November 7 and 8, 2025, 7:00-10:00 PM. Wine and Malt Beverage only; $50 fee each; alcohol purchased from Merrimack Valley. Polled 5-0.

Master Plan Advisory Committee appointment (approx. 7:45 PM)

The Community Development and Planning Department and Planning Board requested a Select Board representative for the Comprehensive Master Plan Advisory Committee. Both Mrs. Noonan and Mr. Zisson expressed interest. James R. Zisson appointed. All in favor.

Closing business (approx. 7:45 - 7:50 PM)

Marblehead Forever. Motion to prepare a proclamation for the 2025 Marblehead Forever Award. All in favor.

Letters of interest received: Matthew Burke (Harbors & Waters Board), Steve McClure (Cultural Council), Andrew Gillis (Council on Aging). The Board will receive letters of interest for those three boards with a deadline of August 29, 2025.

Marine Corps letter. Mr. Grader proposed a letter to the Marine Corps Delegation thanking them for their visit and expressing the Town’s support for the August 21 event. Discussion about date, venue, and coordination with public-safety and various departments. Motion approved to have the Town Administrator send the letter. All in favor.

Adjourned at 7:50 PM.