• Bob Roberta (36 Chestnut St.) presented Glover Regiment challenge coins to Select Board members following the regiment’s recent visit.
• Bonnie Carey (24 Shepherd St.) raised concerns about a newly posted treasurer-collector position, noting it would bring the office to five full-time employees and asserting the position was not included in the budget.
• Kurt James (Norman St.) disclosed his roles on the housing committee, in affordable-housing finance, and on the board of Marblehead Community Housing Corp., then urged the board to prioritize a 100% affordable, nonprofit-led development at Coffin School, citing a scale of roughly 40 units similar to a Swampscott project.
• Albert Jordan (Roosevelt Ave.) called for the Coffin School process to move quickly, saying the building has been sitting vacant for over three years and is a fire hazard.

The board discussed how to structure public comment going forward, noting that the prior meeting included approximately 80 minutes of public comment, with many residents raising similar concerns about trash barrel sizes. Members suggested using a visible whiteboard to log recurring themes in real time, allowing the chair to acknowledge repeated points without cutting off speakers. The chair emphasized the board’s educational role and preference for open dialogue, while acknowledging the need to summarize and redirect when comments become repetitive.

Ron Knight (36 Amherst Road) presented challenge coins on behalf of the VFW commemorating the 250th anniversary, featuring Washington crossing the Delaware. He also announced a USS Glover reunion dinner at the VFW post on Saturday.

Bob Arbetta (36 Chestnut Street) noted he is coordinating a town tour for the USS Glover crew members as a fort ranger.

Alexander Falk, chair of the Marblehead Fireworks Committee, announced the harbor illumination would begin at 8:45 p.m. and fireworks at 9:00 p.m. on July 4th, with a 10-day countdown beginning that evening.

Bonnie Carey (24 Shepherd Street) briefly commented that she found the new three-minute public comment timer unnecessary given the small crowd.

The chair opened the meeting at 12:30 p.m. and invited public comment. No members of the public wished to speak, and the committee moved directly to agenda items.

Mary McCarriston of Pine Cliff Road was the sole public commenter, offering congratulations to the newly elected and continuing members and expressing confidence in the committee. No other speakers came forward and public comment was closed.

Al Jordan praised the town clerk’s office staff for managing the recent election with reduced staffing. He expressed mixed feelings about the override not initially passing, noting he canvassed over 350 homes and heard widespread frustration about snow removal, trash service, and department head responsiveness.

Jordan raised concerns about the cost impact on fixed-income seniors, referencing a tax relief program at the senior center that he said would allow up to 100 qualifying residents (age 65+, income under $75,000, 10-year residency) to receive up to $2,000 off their taxes, which he argued would be insufficient if assessments rise significantly.

He also called for a dedicated highway department director separate from water and sewer, better public communication before road and sidewalk work begins, and greater accessibility to select board members. A brief exchange occurred when a board member clarified that select board members waived their stipends this year.

The chair opened public comment. No one appeared in person or online, and public comment was immediately closed.

Francis Nielsen suggested a reading timed to coincide with the ringing of a bell at noon or 6 PM, noting it would align with the 250th anniversary of independence. The board expressed support and indicated they would discuss it at the next meeting; a board member noted they sit on the Route 250 committee and could help coordinate.

Al Jordan (Roosevelt Avenue) asked the board to invite a Southwest EXSO representative to explain projected sewer rate increases he had heard about from Peabody, and raised a rumor that the school department found $2 million in unaccounted funds.

Amy Hertz (Bouvier Road) said the 2022 Town Meeting Article 11 ($12,475,000) was approved for road and repair, not new construction. She cited a 2024 town study finding $61 million in existing sidewalk repair needs and asked the board to pause Bouvier Road work and share plans with neighbors before proceeding.

John Acid (43 Bouvier Road) referenced a town white paper noting DPW is at capacity spending $3 million per year and that maintenance funding stands at only 14% of the recommended level. He asked for a public three-year priority plan, arguing funds should go to high-volume safety corridors rather than side-street new construction.

A fourth resident questioned why newly hired non-essential town employees were included before essential staff in a recent announcement.

Resident Anthony Mullen of 34 Central Street appeared before the board to report raccoons nesting in the abandoned properties at 30 and 32 Central Street, which are held under a family trust and have been vacant for years despite being structurally deteriorating.

Staff confirmed they had visited the site that morning with the building commissioner and issued a formal letter to the property owners requiring raccoon removal and boarding up of the structure. The fire chief was also consulted. Staff noted the properties have a history of prior compliance with boarding orders but the rear of the structure remains accessible to wildlife.

Mullen noted children have been seen on the unsafe front steps and raised liability concerns. Staff indicated fines and court action are available if the property owners do not comply. The board discussed but noted significant legal and financial hurdles to municipal demolition of privately held, tax-current property.

A resident (identified as Mary) addressed the committee during public comment in advance of Teacher Appreciation Week, commending educators and recounting how her granddaughter participated in a mock town meeting at the middle school that debated the proposed override. She noted the experience sparked intergenerational conversation at home.

At the opening of the meeting the chair noted there were no public attendees and skipped the public comment portion.

Mark Tinzando, president of Marblehead Firefighters Union Local 2043, addressed the board during public comment. He stated the union is deeply concerned that an agreement reached in good faith between both sides now appears to be unraveling, calling it a handshake agreement built on mutual trust. He urged the town to stand behind its commitment to public safety.

The chair called the meeting to order at 10:03 a.m. and invited public comment from the single online attendee, who did not raise a hand to speak.

Board of Health Chair Tom Mazzaro opened the April 14 meeting by noting that a recent comprehensive community survey ranked youth mental health and substance use as the second-highest concern among residents, behind only sidewalks. He introduced DA Paul Tucker, Police Chief Dennis King, and Superintendent John Robidoux as panelists.

DA Tucker covered several legal and programmatic topics:

• Social host law (MGL Ch. 138): Any adult — or juvenile — who knowingly and intentionally allows minors to possess alcohol on premises they own or control faces up to one year in the house of correction and a $2,000 fine. The Marblehead town bylaw, while well-intentioned, carries only a small fine and lacks sufficient deterrent effect compared to the state statute.
• Warrantless entry: Police do not need a warrant to enter a premises when community caretaking concerns are immediate (breach of peace, intoxicated minors, destruction of evidence).
• Good Samaritan law: A minor who calls for help for an incapacitated peer will be immune from prosecution — this carve-out does not extend to adults who host or furnish alcohol.
• Programs highlighted: After-Prom Grants (nearly $40,000 distributed this year; Marblehead received $3,800 and will host Kathy and Chris Sullivan — parents who lost a daughter to an alcohol-related accident — to speak to seniors on May 4); the Nan Project (peer-to-peer mental health counseling); Mass Partnerships for Youth; Gloucester Police gaming and fishing programs; Lynnfield Substance Use Coalition; and a full-time restorative justice coordinator.

Chief King emphasized that criminal charges alone do not change trajectories and that consistent support, timely intervention, and measured accountability are most effective. He noted that:

• Officers have been reminded to complete thorough, well-documented investigations at underage drinking incidents.
• School Resource Officer Sean Sweeney Jr. focuses on behavioral health and relationship-building, not discipline.
• If the budget is not passed with an override, the department will drop to 30 officers, requiring the SRO to be reassigned to patrol. Tier 1 of the override (31 officers) would likely preserve the SRO position.

Superintendent Robidoux read a joint letter co-signed by himself, Chief King, and DA Tucker urging parents and students to prioritize safety during prom and graduation season. He described existing school programs: SURFF annual substance use survey, SBIRT screening (grades 7 and high school), Wayfinder social-emotional learning curriculum, Cartwheel online counseling, two student safety committees, a health and wellness committee, and a Magic Coalition student peer group. He noted the North Shore Recovery High School is being rebranded as North Shore Phoenix Academy to reflect broader mental health services.

Students Michael Labosier, Max Colin, Don Obesi, Caleb Sidman, and Lucy Molinari introduced MAGIC — the Marblehead Alliance for Growth, Inclusion, and Connection — a student-led coalition formed in response to a swastika found in a second-floor boys’ bathroom on October 7.

The group held school-wide assemblies split by grade and installed suggestion boxes. They plan to visit Village School sixth-graders to discuss why hate is harmful, emphasizing peer-to-peer messaging over teacher-led instruction. Students argued that hate is environmentally driven and that early education is key to prevention. The coalition also aims to provide students with resources if they experience discrimination.

Five residents spoke during open comment:

• Eileen Good (44 Brandywine) and Elaine Lansey (Ida Rd) urged the board to put the sustainability coordinator (titled “assistant planner”) and the Community Planning & Development director in Tier 1 of the override, citing $150K/year (about $1M over five years) in grant funding tied to those roles.
• Tom McMahon (16 Shorewood) demanded the chair publicly support enforcement of social hosting laws and attend the April 14 Board of Health meeting with DA Paul Tucker. The chair declined to respond under Open Meeting Law (item not on the agenda).
• Amy Hurd (36 Bouvier) objected to DPW paving over the public way for new sidewalks under the 2022 Article 11 road-and-sidewalk repair authorization ($12M / 5 years). She argued the article authorized repairs, not new construction; the bylaw requires advance notice (which was not given); and Bouvier Road was not on the prioritized safety study.
• Albert Jordan supported the Tucker meeting.

Mary McCarristen, Pine Cliff Drive, addressed the committee to express gratitude for their work managing a difficult budget situation and said she has been talking to senior citizens about the need for an override.

Nine residents addressed the board during public comment, nearly all supporting a multi-year, comprehensive override.

Terri Toro (MMEU/IUVE CWA Local 1776 layoff committee chair) described the human cost of pending layoffs — including a custodian who opened the meeting hall — and warned that outsourcing would not be cost-effective given existing union contracts and that parks/cemetery workers double as plow drivers.

Renee Ramirez Keeney said she did not care whether trash was funded by fee or override but opposed any approach that pitted departments against each other; she called for a realistic multi-year solution.

Jonathan Heller (parent and teacher) cited the town’s $7.7 million budget gap and asked for a unified community response, noting the school committee had already made enrollment-driven staffing adjustments.

Lauren Geary asked whether the town had recently requested state authorization for an early retirement incentive program; a board member responded the state had previously denied such requests and that recent requests had not been made.

Caroline Hawkins argued against an à la carte approach and expressed support for a multi-year override covering schools, library, Council on Aging, and parks.

Vlad Grinkov asked for an explanation of how the budget gap arose after what appeared to be a balanced budget at the prior town meeting.

Kate Thompson and Matt Hooks (co-chairs, For Marblehead) reported launching a grassroots campaign three weeks prior, with 262 volunteers, 2,200 website page views in three days, and 86 participants on a Zoom call. They said their support was conditional on the override being comprehensive and multi-year.

Alan Joiner said he opposed a large ‘supersize’ override, cited concerns about elderly residents on fixed incomes, questioned a proposed new clerk position at $70,000 base for trash fee collection, and objected to the Board of Health operating the transfer station as a business open to out-of-town users.

Sarah Fox warned that Essex Tech assessment costs were being significantly underestimated. She said Marblehead’s enrollment at Essex Tech was rising from 35 to 55 students, that the original $750,000 projection had grown to $1.1 million after a state formula change, and that a $500,000–$600,000 annual shortfall compounding over four years to more than $2 million would undermine any override if not included.

Rebecca Bennett asked whether low-income residents could receive a tax break when the levy increases.

Sarah Fox (46 Feet Street) said she attended the Select Board budget sessions earlier that day and obtained the detailed line-item budget. She noted that Select Board member Moses Brader suggested schools should pursue any override on their own. She warned the committee that the town budget appeared to carry both a health-insurance cushion and unemployment figures in ways that inflate the school’s apparent shortfall, and urged the committee to verify numbers before making further staffing cuts: ‘Once it’s gone, you’ll never get it back.’

Eve Cronin (Glover parent) described real impacts of past cuts—her son’s grade was reduced to three teachers—and asked the committee to fight for adequate school funding. Leslie Conlin expressed support for whatever financial resources the schools need. Jonathan Hellard, a teacher and parent, described the town’s $7.7 million budget gap and argued that cuts to classrooms, support staff, or student services would be felt directly by students. He urged a community-wide solution and noted that communities across Massachusetts face the same structural pressures.

The chair opened the meeting and solicited public comment. No members of the public came forward either in person or online, and the public comment period was closed.

Public comment period included:

1. Liam (identified as press/media): Requested the committee answer media email inquiries and keep the public informed about what will be requested in any override, noting he had been ‘trying to figure it out just like so many other people.’

2. Resident (identified as Sarah or similar): Detailed knowledge of the 2019-2020 MOU signed between Select Board and School Committee requiring annual joint meetings with designees. Noted the MOU was drafted by Jason Silver; that in October 2024 she had texted the then-Select Board chair about it; and that the response was ‘an entirely different board is not bound to this MOU from years past.’ She argued the MOU exists, is not being adhered to, and that an MOU is an insufficient safeguard if boards routinely ignore it.

The committee also discussed internally:

• Whether to include school-side budget needs in the select board’s tiered override structure
• Whether the school committee has a standalone warrant article option
• The superintendent stated he could produce a multi-year fiscal 28 projection within a week if needed

Four residents spoke during public comment:

• Nick Ward (Ralston Road) argued the town’s demographic pressures will keep driving operating deficits and urged the board to consider economic growth as a third path beyond tax increases or service cuts.
• Albert Jordan (Malta Avenue) opposed cuts to the senior center, arguing reduced services would increase healthcare and emergency-response costs, and questioned moving trash costs from property taxes to fees as simply shifting money between pockets.
• Tom McMahon (Shorewood Road) called including curbside trash in an override scenario a “catastrophic mistake,” and argued that bundling override items violates the spirit of Town Meeting Article 50, which passed with overwhelming support and called for single-item overrides.
• Lee Blair (Marblehead Current) noted a community narrative that scare tactics are being used and asked the board to address it.
• Sarah Bass (Beach Street) said the town’s financial cliff has been visible since at least 2019, criticized a pattern of unmet commitments, and warned that threatening the library risks future debt-exclusion overrides and the town’s AAA bond rating.

Public comment was limited to three minutes per speaker with a 15-minute total segment. Sarah Fox (46 Street) offered a commendation for Todd Bloodgood, recounting his work on the building committee, his role moving an entire school building over a single weekend, and his presence on the floor of town meeting. No other public commenters were noted.

The chair reported on several ongoing public health initiatives:

Wellness Fair: The second annual wellness fair drew approximately 200 attendees and nearly 30 vendors. Discussion arose about timing — some vendors suggested moving it later and potentially outdoors, though the board noted that the winter timing captures residents before snowbirding and aligns with New Year’s resolutions.

COMM Survey Results: Columns sharing survey data have been published in local papers. Stress data showed 76% of residents aged 40–49 report work-life balance challenges and challenges raising children. The prior U.S. Surgeon General’s framing was cited: the level of social disconnection observed is equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes per day in terms of life-shortening effects.

Focus Groups: Five focus groups are planned for late March and April, organized by age cohort (young adults via Zoom on April 1; middle age, pre-retirement, and seniors in person). Dr. Caitlyn Coyle of UMass Boston is facilitating. Board members will not attend to preserve confidentiality.

Mental Health Website: The ‘Marblehead Cares’ mental health resource website has been down for nearly a year. The board chair is meeting with the original developer to restore and expand it.

District Attorney Visit: Essex County District Attorney Paul Tucker is scheduled to appear at the April 14 Board of Health meeting. Town counsel has been asked to review the social hosting bylaw before that date. The board discussed inviting select board members and the police chief. The police department’s jail diversion officer has been conducting addiction and recovery seminars jointly with Swampscott.

Grant Opportunity: The Massachusetts Community Health and Healthy Aging Fund has issued an RFP. The board is working toward a submission by March 31. Planning-level grants of up to $50,000/year are available, with potential for larger program grants.

Extended public comment period during and after the budget presentation:

• John (32 Feet, marine industry): Suggested Scenario A was presented primarily to make Scenario B appear preferable; questioned whether other positions—such as the sustainability coordinator—were considered for elimination before front-line staff.
• Mr. Jordan: Opposed the trash fee, citing a failed attempt at a similar fee 15–20 years ago; raised concern about longevity benefit increases during a budget shortfall; questioned the proposal to protect public safety from cuts while threatening the COA and cemetery; noted he would not support a combined school/town override.
• Matt Hooks: Asked for an override option that goes beyond restoring cuts to actually improving service levels and infrastructure to where they were five or six years ago.
• Eric (LY Washington): Noted the library had informed the board it could not sustain a reduced-hours staffing model and proposed instead operating through December 1, 2026 then closing pending an override. Challenged the budget’s presentation transparency, arguing that moving trash costs to a fee is a revenue reassignment rather than a cut and inflates the apparent Scenario B town-side reduction. Argued schools are being asked to cut 44% more than the town side under Scenario B (when trash fee is excluded). Raised concern about the library bond still appearing on tax bills even if the library closes. Noted that in 1931 during the Great Depression, Marblehead opened a second library branch rather than closing the existing one. Asserted new fees require town meeting approval and suggested the board consult the town of Abington.
• Jeff: Called for broad public engagement and transparent town meeting presentation on capital and infrastructure implications of staffing cuts.

Four residents addressed the board during public comment:

• Resident from 7 Glover Square urged the board to support the Municipal Energy Reduction Plan and framed it as consistent with Marblehead’s net-zero-by-2040 goal.
• Resident from 6 Blue Court (identified as chair of the light board) noted that town buildings are MMLD’s largest customer and argued improved building envelopes would reduce peak demand costs, lowering rates for all residents.
• Amy Chu (30 Hartland Branch) expressed disappointment that a warrant article to dissolve the Public Works Committee was included, noting the committee had been productive and is advisory only.
• Resident (Mr. Jordan) raised concern about proceeding with the energy plan before knowing whether the town will comply with MBTA Communities 3A zoning, warning that non-compliance could result in MMLD rate assessments.

Sarah urged the committee and town to explore a health-insurance buyout program — paying employees a cash incentive (municipalities typically offer $4,000–$10,000) to waive town coverage and enroll under a spouse’s plan. She argued this produces net savings even at current contribution rates and suggested the PEC agreement could be reopened before its three-year renewal.

A second resident noted that a town bylaw requires health-insurance costs to follow salaries whenever positions are paid from revolving funds, and suggested the town audit recent transfers — particularly in the school department — to ensure compliance. The chair acknowledged the concern and noted it had been raised at a prior school budget hearing, where the school business manager had indicated he could not afford to transfer the associated benefits.

Sarah Matusa (teacher, ~20 years in Marblehead): Praised the district’s DESE report-card performance but warned that cuts to positions such as the math interventionist and RTI teachers risk students—especially those just below IEP qualification—slipping through the cracks. She described the risk of increased SPED referrals and private-school enrollment if intervention positions are eliminated.

Samantha Rosado (resident, 3 Martin Ferris): Called for a fully funded budget and noted the last time MPS was level-funded (FY24), ‘serious consequences followed.’ She listed what she characterized as hidden budget cuts over recent years—raising user fees, pulling IAs to supervise lunch, increasing kindergarten tuition, reducing IIA hours from 32.5 to 30—and asked why the school committee and superintendent had not recommended an override. She also questioned end-of-year surpluses.

Mary (senior citizen and parent of a 13-year-old): Described outreach to senior-citizen neighbors to explain the need for an override, noting that ~23% of the population is over 65. She recounted a parallel situation in Swampscott where a teacher exodus followed budget cuts, and said neighbors told her they pulled children from MPS due to last year’s events.

Sarah (second in-person speaker): Raised technical questions about the budget’s pre-payment deduct line for out-of-district SPED tuitions and the circuit-breaker reimbursement policy, arguing the district should return to the practice—developed with FinCom—of showing a full deduct line so the public understands the true cost. The finance director (Mike) defended the current approach and said showing the full deduct without adequate reserves could create a $4 million shortfall in FY28.

The chair called the February 11 Select Board meeting to order, noted the meeting was being recorded, and invited public comment. No residents came forward in person or online. Public comment was closed.

A resident spoke during what appears to be an open comment period, raising concerns that meeting documents and presentations were not being made available online in advance. The speaker referenced prior years when materials were posted beforehand and argued that transparency is especially important in a year with potential budget cuts and possible override discussions.

A reporter named Ika from the Marblehead Current joined the Zoom and asked where to find meeting minutes. The health director offered to provide minutes directly and noted that MHTV maintains a subscription service for recorded meetings. The chair suggested MHTV as the primary resource for recordings of select board, school committee, board of health, and finance committee meetings.

The board chair reported on the CALM (Creating a Healthier Marblehead) community wellness survey. Of 16,792 registered residents invited, 2,550 completed the survey — a 15% response rate that exceeded UMass Boston’s projection of 10%.

Key findings included:

• Approximately 86% of respondents expressed moderate or high concern about underage substance use.
• Approximately 85% of respondents identified bullying as a significant issue for youth.
• Open-ended comments highlighted teen drinking, loneliness in the elderly, and family alcoholism as top concerns; a minority of respondents suggested the board focus only on traditional public health functions such as restaurant inspections and sanitation.

Next steps include UMass Boston conducting at least four in-person focus groups in March, organized by age cohort, with final report and public forum anticipated by late April or May 1. Focus groups are closed-enrollment and covered by UMass Boston’s IRB for privacy.

Sarah Fox (40 Foster Street) raised three items: (1) requesting that Select Board meeting packets be posted online as the school department does; (2) suggesting the town’s annual capital investment target should be roughly $4–5 million per year rather than the previously cited $2–2.5 million; and (3) flagging that Essex Tech increased Marblehead’s seat allocation from 9 to 39, a 333% increase, which she projected would reduce high school enrollment by roughly 100–150 students in four years and significantly affect the cherry-sheet assessment.

Pat Adams (Village Street) spoke remotely about dangerous sidewalk conditions near schools following the snowstorm, stating she had witnessed and videoed students walking in the street alongside active vehicle traffic. She expressed concern that no snow removal had occurred near the village school the prior evening and asked for urgent attention before a potential additional storm.

Sarah Fox (46 Foss Street) addressed the committee regarding a letter sent to a teacher identified as ‘Breijie K’ (likely Breijie Karn, daughter of the late Robert Sanford) notifying her that her grievance was denied. Fox argued the Unit A contract language on lead-teacher positions was clear and accused the committee majority of retaliatory action. She called on a member of the prevailing side to move to reconsider under Roberts Rules.

Linda Bell, a former Coffin School student and spouse of the Veterans Middle School head custodian, notified the committee via email to Superintendent Shaner that a time capsule buried in 1976 by all Coffin School classes is due to be opened in the town’s 250th anniversary year and should be retrieved before any demolition of that school building.

The chair asked for public comment; none was offered from the six online attendees. The board confirmed its next meeting for January 26 and voted unanimously to adjourn.

The chair called the January 7, 2026 meeting to order, noted the meeting was being recorded, wished attendees a Happy New Year, and opened a brief public comment period before proceeding to contract approvals.

The first speaker read a letter citing alleged breaches of Mass. General Law and ethics by the chair and vice chair for releasing privileged information, and apologized for using incorrect parliamentary terminology at a prior meeting.

A second speaker (Sarah, Ida Road) addressed the committee on the fifth night of Hanukkah, noting concern that the meeting was held on a Jewish holiday. She described a Jewish English teacher at Veterans Middle School whose lead-teacher position was split one month after the teacher publicly spoke about antisemitism, and urged the committee to take supportive action rather than retaliate.

Reese Dalberg (MVMS parent co-president and Task Force Against Discrimination member) thanked MVMS English teachers and administration for organizing an intergenerational discussion of the novel When We Flew Away at Abbott Public Library, attended by 33 students and community members including Council on Aging participants.

Sarah Cox (46 C Street) alleged that the school committee’s decision to change school start and end times constituted a breach of Massachusetts General Law and ethics law. She argued the change — which she calculated reduced instructional time by approximately 36 hours annually at the high school — amounted to more than $500,000 in additional teacher compensation and was made without a public vote to reopen collective bargaining.

Karen MCL (11 Trager Road) urged the committee to fairly review a grievance filed by a teacher she said was removed from a lead teacher position approximately one month after speaking out about antisemitism in the schools. She characterized the removal as retaliation.

Public comment, in order

Sarah Fox (46 Ft Street) on enrollment decline:

• Enrollment dropped from 2,727 (June 9) to 2,511 currently — 216 students (8%) in under six months
• Concern about explanation of decline in relation to staffing lines and budget requests
• Noted additional funding requests would face town scrutiny without clear messaging on enrollment-to-staffing translation

Kate Thompson (remote) on missing meeting minutes:

• Formally requested minutes for three 2024 meetings and five 2023 meetings:
  • 2024: 10/17, 10/30, 11/17
  • 2023: 10/24, 1/7, 2/13, 2/28, 3/18
• Noted some meetings have YouTube recordings, but all require publicly posted minutes

Public comment moved to the beginning of the agenda. The records request was procedural — not a discussion item — but is logged here for the record.

The chair pro tem invited public comment from those attending in person and online. No one came forward.

The chair reported that the Comm Wellness Initiative community survey received 2,640 total responses, of which 2,523 were deemed valid after UMass Boston partners identified 117 blank submissions. That figure represents over 15% of the approximately 16,000 postcards mailed to Marblehead residents aged 18 and older — higher than anticipated.

Key outreach included a Code Red notification, restaurant table cards, and social media. The chair noted the survey was funded without any taxpayer dollars.

Next steps:

• December 3 leadership council meeting (tentatively open to the public) for initial data review
• Four or five focus groups planned for Q1, with particular interest in the 18–30 and 30–40 age cohorts who responded at the lowest rates
• Draft written report and open community forum targeted by end of Q1

The chair also noted that a Department of Mental Health grant application for a MiniMed/micro-MPH program was not submitted due to insufficient time to develop the required collaborative partnerships.

Albert Jordan (Roosevelt Ave) thanked the highway and tree departments for cleanup around the Coffin School but raised concerns about three abandoned vehicles blocking the building and a wooden shed he described as a fire hazard. The chair noted the shed is being taken down.

John Livermore (19 Russell St), Eileen Haley (44 Longview Drive), Michelle Bell (Ocean Ave), and Elaine Lahey (Ida Road) each spoke in support of the municipal energy reduction plan that was to be presented later in the meeting. Speakers cited potential grant funding of $150,000 in the first year and up to $250,000 per subsequent grant cycle, operational cost savings, and alignment with the town’s net-zero-by-2040 goal.

During the open-public-comment period, a resident described the citizen police academy format — weekly Friday sessions over nine to ten weeks with speakers, a courthouse visit, and a police station tour — as analogous to the public mental health education program the board chair had described. Discussion also continued on the transfer station’s metal bin, cardboard and paper recycling markets, and the mechanics of the license plate reader system.

The chair called the meeting to order on October 22, 2025, noted the meeting was being recorded, and opened public comment. No members of the public commented in person or online, and the comment period was closed.

The chair reminded the public that comment is limited to three minutes per individual and 15 minutes total, covering budget, superintendent performance, and school policy. No speakers appeared in person or virtually, so the committee moved on.

A resident in the audience suggested the board and transfer station director produce a plain-language newspaper article and video explaining how the transfer station works, what materials go where, and why certain items require special handling. The resident noted that many residents do not know that clothing can be donated, that food composting is available, or that certain bulk items require separate handling. The director agreed and noted the town had previously produced MHTV video segments about the transfer station and could revisit that format. The director also noted that clothing donations at the transfer station have reached approximately 80,000 pounds for the first three quarters of the year.

A board member reported on a meeting with a Select Board member, a School Committee member, and Parks & Recreation staff following a recent fatal accident. Proposed responses included introducing ‘arrive alive’ VR goggle demonstrations, requiring parents to attend pre-prom social-hosting education sessions, and enforcing athletic suspensions for students caught drinking.

The board member expressed concern that adult behavior — including parents drinking at high school sporting events and hosting underage parties — is a significant driver of the problem. A resident at the meeting echoed these concerns, citing recent incidents at Glover School, a high school incident, and the Atlantic Avenue fatality, and urged the board to engage younger residents and connect with school resource officers.

The board chair noted that Marblehead is fortunate to have two local newspapers willing to publish public health columns, which the board hopes will raise health literacy among residents. Two recent columns were highlighted for discussion.

The chair opened public comment at the start of the October 9, 2025 meeting. No members of the public came forward and the comment period was closed.

The chair asked whether anyone was present for public comment. With only three people in the room and no public comment, the board moved and seconded adjournment unanimously.

Albert Jordan (Roosevelt Ave.) urged the board not to wait until May town meeting to address MBTA Communities 3A compliance, arguing a special town meeting would allow focused deliberation and avoid the tension he described at prior town meetings. He also raised concerns about older residents’ ability to pay rising tax bills.

Michelle Bell (Ocean Ave.) asked the board to take two steps to qualify Marblehead for Green Community designation: adopting a municipal energy-reduction policy and sending a letter of support to the Light Board for a renewable energy charge.

Albert Jordan returned briefly to oppose the green community push on affordability grounds, citing the $200,000 cost of sustainability staff and questioning the net benefit.

Addie Flynn (Elm St.) warned that an MBTA proposal to add a dedicated bus lane on the LynnWay would reduce the corridor to two lanes, affecting an estimated 41,000–44,000 daily vehicles versus 3,000 daily bus riders. She called on the board to oppose the project and noted a public survey is available online.

Eileen Haley outlined the financial case for Marblehead joining the state’s Green Communities program, noting 298 of 351 Massachusetts communities have enrolled and that the town could access up to $150,000 in year one and $250,000 per subsequent grant cycle. She asked the Select Board to adopt a low/zero-emission vehicle procurement policy, commit to a 20% municipal energy reduction goal over five years, and send a letter of support to the Municipal Light Board requesting it take preparatory steps conditional on the town achieving MBTA 3A compliance.

Albert Jordan expressed support for going green but cautioned that the program requires a ratepayer surcharge on electric bills, that the light rate has not increased in 15 years, and that accepting state funds creates an obligation to repay them if the town exits the program. He encouraged the board to proceed carefully.

During public comment:

• A resident raised concern that the upcoming community health survey, based on voter/town clerk registration lists, would miss residents who are not registered to vote. The director acknowledged the concern and described plans to supplement the postcard mailing with newspaper QR codes, placement at the transfer station, COA outreach, MHTV broadcasts, and rolling bulletin boards.
• The same resident suggested using rolling sign boards to improve recycling schedule awareness and inquired about using the senior real estate tax program for additional clerical help.
• The resident noted difficulty finding the charter draft B on the town website and suggested improving discoverability; the director suggested searching ‘Marblehead Charter Draft B’ in Google.
• The resident asked the board to continue advocating for expansion to a five-member Board of Health.
• Via Zoom, resident Lee asked for the spelling of ‘Bloom for All’ and confirmed the $15,000 annual cost covers four free counseling sessions per user for all residents and employees.

The board chair opened the meeting by addressing the August 19 death of 13-year-old Savannah Gacho, calling it at its root an issue of mental health and substance use — core areas of the Board of Health’s portfolio. Drawing on his background as a pediatric ICU medical director, he described the importance of allowing communities to grieve and share humanity.

The board unanimously approved the following statement:

It is with great sadness that the Board of Health acknowledges the tragic events of August 19th, which led to the death of 13-year-old Savannah Gacho. We extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to Savannah’s family and friends at this time of great pain and suffering. We also recognize the desire of many Marblehead residents for a meaningful response that will reduce the likelihood of similar tragedies in the future. As a board we commit to strengthen our efforts to support mental health in the town and to promote awareness of the consequences of substance abuse in our community, especially for young people.

Sarah Fox, 46 [street not fully captured], spoke on two topics.

Survey consent: She alleged that including blanket survey approval in student handbooks, with signing graded as an assignment, constitutes a forced mandate contrary to a recent Supreme Court decision requiring parental opt-in rather than opt-out.

Finance transparency: She noted the district is facing an approximately $3 million deficit representing roughly 60 full-time positions, questioned why a finance update was removed from the agenda less than two hours before the meeting, and noted the finance subcommittee has only one appointed member and cannot convene. She called for consistent, transparent financial reporting.

The meeting was called to order at 11:04 a.m. with members Kate Schmeck, Pepper, Jen, and others present. The chair confirmed no members of the public wished to comment.

A resident identified as Sarah Fox raised two issues: she challenged the committee’s authority to place a collective bargaining exemption item on the agenda without a public vote to reopen bargaining, citing open meeting law and ethics concerns; and she called for a cross-board task force on youth substance use in light of a recent tragedy, referencing a youth risk behavior survey showing more than one in four high school students reported riding with someone under the influence.

A second resident (online) echoed the substance use concerns, emphasizing the need for school-based education and community accountability, and asked whether the committee had responded to her August 6th email about anti-semitism steps.

A Board of Health member, Tom McMahon of 16 Shorewood Road, spoke about the culture of alcohol normalization in Marblehead, questioned the accuracy of the youth survey methodology, and offered the Board of Health’s participation in any community-wide response.

The chair called the August 13, 2025 meeting to order and opened public comment. No one came forward in person, and no online hands were raised.

The board chair reported on a recent meeting to review sample questions for a community wellness assessment being developed with a consultant from UMass Boston (described as a gerontologist). Seven participants attended, including representatives covering maternal health, senior services, and pediatrics. The new school superintendent also joined and provided substantive input.

The chair noted that school committee chair Al Williams had enthusiastically agreed to explore a formal partnership between the school committee and the Board of Health, and that Kate Schmick-Pepper also participated in an initial conversation. The group worked through roughly half of a 50-question draft survey; a follow-up session was planned to finish pruning the list toward a target of approximately 40 questions. The chair noted a preference to wait until the Republic Services strike concludes before launching the survey publicly, while staying within the consultant’s requirement that analysis be completed by early 2025.

The chair also described an introductory public health literacy presentation given to the local Rotary club and plans to offer a series of sessions at the Council on Aging in the fall.

Two community members — one in person, one remote — addressed the committee during public comment on the topic of antisemitism in the schools and broader society.

The first speaker described a pattern of antisemitic violence in the United States and Europe, including incidents in New York City and Brooklyn, and said she was personally affected by one of the attacks. She asked the committee to set a timeline before the next meeting to implement policies, educational programming, consequences, and clear reporting systems addressing antisemitism in the schools.

The second speaker, participating remotely, also described heightened antisemitism globally and stated that a district anti-discrimination survey sent to parents, teachers, and students showed respondents had experienced antisemitism physically or verbally approximately once a week. She called on the committee to ensure antisemitic curriculum does not enter district schools and praised the committee for previously taking action on a curriculum matter.

Both speakers noted they are members of the superintendent’s anti-discrimination task force. The superintendent acknowledged the feedback and committed to moving forward with monthly meetings of the committee starting in the fall.

The chair announced the July 24, 2025 meeting was being recorded. Public comment was opened but no members of the public spoke. A brief audio issue (the conference room microphone had been muted) was resolved by switching to the Smartboard mic and shutting off the air conditioning.

A resident from 106 Atlantic Avenue expressed support for the Select Board’s handling of MBTA Communities 3A compliance, saying the board was attempting to keep the town out of legal trouble.

A resident from 64 Roosevelt Road raised concerns about the pace of municipal hiring, water and sewer rate increases, transfer station operations serving non-residents, and the lack of full-time highway department staffing.

A resident calling in from 165 Westshore Drive referenced the previous night’s referendum result on Article 23 (3A adoption), noted the narrow margin, and asked the board what its plan was for the July 14 non-compliance deadline and whether the board had contingency plans.

The same resident also objected to proposed roundabout projects, advocating instead for stop signs.

Sarah Padian (23 Idol Road) expressed disagreement with the chair change, arguing Jen Schaffer should have remained given two new members on the committee. She also raised concern about antisemitism and noted the Massachusetts Teachers Association had approved training she characterized as redefining antisemitism in ways she found problematic, stating the superintendent had assured her such content would not enter the curriculum.

Mark Adams (15 Brier Lane) urged the committee to use the approved HVAC funds for an energy-efficient heat pump system rather than replacing the natural gas boiler with another gas boiler, citing Marblehead’s net-zero-by-2040 goal, Marblehead Light’s 65% carbon-free electricity (on track for 100% by 2040), and available grants for heat pumps.

Michelle Bell (261 Ocean Avenue, Sustainable Marblehead) asked the committee to consider designing a solar-ready roof during the upcoming high school roof renovation, noting that installing conduit during renovation is far less costly than a post-hoc retrofit.

Sarah Fox (former committee member, appearing remotely) raised procedural concerns that the reorganization votes lacked proper motions and seconds, called the pre-meeting serial communication a potential open-meeting law violation, and flagged a conflict-of-interest concern about Henry serving as secretary given his partner’s employment in the district.

Cindy Tower Loan (12 Trinity Road) asked whether public comment should be paused to redo the reorganization vote, and welcomed the new committee.

Kate Thompson congratulated new members and issued four challenges: meet through summer, assemble a community expert group for the roof project, review the 2020 capital needs audit, and commit to regular subcommittee meetings.

Albert Jordan, a resident at Roosevelt Avenue, addressed the board during public comment. He expressed concern about the recent teacher labor action and its effect on students, noting that children lost approximately 11 school days and attended school during extreme heat. He urged the board to consider adding language to the town administrator’s future contract requiring participation on the school committee’s collective bargaining team, citing Salem’s model where the mayor sits on the school committee.

Albert Jordan commended residents for turnout at the prior day’s election and expressed hope that the school department would closely review its budget going forward. He also raised concern about a Board of Health position reported in a local paper, noting a hiring freeze was in place, and suggested the town consider privatizing solid waste operations or exploring arrangements like the South Essex Sewer Authority model.

Chair Schaffner read two letters of commendation received by the committee. The first, from the ADL New England dated May 20, expressed gratitude for the vote condemning MTA antisemitic teaching materials and connected the action to concerns about rising antisemitism following a shooting at the Capital Jewish Museum. The second, from CAMERA CEO Kurt Schwartz dated June 4, similarly praised the committee’s moral clarity and offered organizational support going forward.

The chair also noted for the record that while the vote on the proclamation was 3-2, all five members of the Marblehead School Committee subsequently signed the resolution.

Four community members — Kristen Binder, Karen Telmelka, Sarah Palladian, Carl Goodman (via Zoom), and Elm (West Shore Drive) — thanked committee members Jen Schaffner, Sarah Fox, and Allison Taylor for voting to approve a proclamation condemning Massachusetts Teachers Association curricular materials they described as antisemitic. Several speakers expressed disappointment that the vote was 3-2 rather than unanimous and called on the two dissenting members to reconsider.

A fifth speaker, Jonathan Heller (26 Ralph Road), a 19-year educator in the district, referenced a recent student suicide in a neighboring community and asked the committee to prioritize student mental health, specifically requesting the addition of school social workers and a formal committee proclamation on mental health. Committee Chair Schaffner asked the superintendent to provide a future report on mental health staffing levels.

Nick Ward (6 Ton Road) argued that the primary motivation behind the citizen petition was concern that residents lacked the opportunity to vote at town meeting, and urged the Select Board to make every voting avenue available — at minimum mail-in ballots and ideally early in-person voting.

A board member responded that mail-in voting is now available by default and that the Board of Registrars is meeting the following week to decide whether early voting will be offered for the June 10 election, with the special election question also referred to them.

Megan (remote) suggested the Select Board could have filed an exemption with the state regarding Article 3 and thanked the board and town clerk for ensuring a fair vote.

John (6th Grade Road) raised two legal issues:

1. Polling hours — Chapter 405 of the Acts of 1954 states polls shall close no earlier than 8 PM but does not preclude later hours; he urged the board to keep polls open until 10 PM given the preceding holiday week.
2. Vote threshold — He argued there is no case law definitively interpreting whether the threshold to reverse a town meeting vote requires both a majority of voters and at least 20% of registered voters. He proposed a compromise of 15% (roughly 825 fewer votes than 20%) applicable only to this ballot question to avoid potential declaratory-judgment litigation that he estimated could delay a result until late 2025.

Albert Jordan of 64 Roosevelt Avenue spoke during public comment on several topics:

• Town Meeting venue: Jordan advocated for holding future town meetings at the new high school, citing better accessibility, ventilation, exits, and comfort compared to the old high school auditorium.
• Coffin School property: He urged the board not to let the property sit vacant for years, suggesting the incoming board act within three to six months.
• Police car color: Jordan suggested changing police cars from all-black to a more visible black-and-white or white-and-blue scheme, noting he plans to meet with the town administrator on the topic before the next board is seated.
• Town vehicle take-home policy: He raised concerns about department heads taking town vehicles home out of town and asked whether proper tax reporting is being done, noting he would bring relevant state forms to the town administrator.

Multiple residents spoke during public comment, primarily about the pending flag and banner policy (Policy IMDB):

• Margaret Clark (29 Bamford St.) argued the policy substitutes board control for administrative trust, questioned the ‘political vs. controversial’ distinction, and urged the committee not to censor flags.
• Angus McQuilkin (39 Ty Lane) contended no policy was ever needed, criticized the list of six heritage months as excluding Greek, Jewish, Arab, and other heritages, noted the absence of federal holidays such as Juneteenth, and pointed out the policy says nothing about teacher and staff free-expression rights.
• Chris Bruhl (online) stated he and his wife, both cisgendered and heterosexual, were offended by a prior committee member’s reference to ‘religious traditional family values,’ and said opposition to the flag policy extends beyond LGBTQ+ families.
• Renee King asked how the committee would define ‘viewpoint neutral,’ raised questions about who decides what constitutes a political or activist organization, and expressed concern that the policy politicizes the school committee.
• Cindy Tower Lowen (12 Trinity Rd.) asked whether the committee had consulted METCO headquarters or other METCO-district school committees before drafting the policy, and whether permanently removing the Black Lives Matter banner would be welcoming to the roughly 50 Boston METCO students.
• Mary McCarrison (Pinecliff Dr.) raised questions about the book review policy and the recess/WIN block schedule.
• Jeannie Lampkin (Devereux St.) noted passive voice in the policy draft, pointed to a welcome mat with LGBTQ+ and diversity symbols already displayed at the school entrance as an example of the ambiguity the policy creates, provided a list of ~40 heritage months, and asked the committee to replace the tattered flag out front—which the superintendent later confirmed was being replaced.

The chair opened the floor for public comment. No speakers came forward and the meeting was adjourned.

A resident attending the meeting noted the new traffic pattern at the transfer station appeared to be working well and praised the facility improvements. The resident urged the board to take photographs of the new compactor, tipping floor, and control booth before town meeting, arguing that most residents—estimated at 90%—have limited awareness of transfer station operations and improvements. The director noted that between 6,000 and 7,000 stickers are sold annually and that roughly 1,000 visits per day occur at the facility. The board acknowledged the need to better publicize the transfer station’s capabilities, including clothes recycling, book drop-off, and other services listed in the annual report.

A representative of the Marblehead Municipal Employees Union addressed the board, stating that the Massachusetts Department of Labor Relations had issued pre-complaints after finding credible information supporting surface bargaining and bad faith bargaining by the town’s bargaining team as of April 2024, with two additional complaints filed more recently. The speaker noted that three unresolved municipal union contracts require funding at town meeting, now approximately 10 days away, and cited MGL Chapter 150E Section 7B1 requiring the employer to submit agreements to the legislative body within 30 days of execution.

A second resident, Jordan Roosevelt, raised concerns about new town positions being created — including a transfer station role reportedly paying approximately $90,000 — while existing contracts remain unsettled. He also commented on vacancies at the electric light department, and advocated for a hiring freeze until contracts are resolved.

Six speakers addressed the committee during public comment, all focused on the proposed flag and banner policy.

• A middle school student argued that removing symbolic displays would harm the educational environment and suggested a student poll.
• Margaret Clark (29 Mulford Street) raised procedural concerns including lack of broad parent notification, absence of approved meeting minutes, and argued the policy’s scope was broader than its agenda description.
• Nyla (online) proposed adding explicit viewpoint-neutrality language with three criteria: values-based, curriculum-based, and viewpoint neutral.
• Angus McQuilkin (39 Lane) raised three concerns: language about symbolic displays had not been removed despite a prior committee motion; a prohibition on third-party petitions remains and may be unconstitutional; and teachers who refuse to comply may face discipline.
• Aaron Opperman (14 Anderson Street), identifying as a constitutional lawyer and queer parent, argued the policy is premature, legally problematic under the First Amendment, and that no flag policy was necessary.
• Audrey House (12 Lincoln Park) asked the committee to table the policy, arguing the existing legal framework does not require blanket suppression.
• Diane Gora (24 Nicholson Street) asked what justification the committee had for removing enforcement authority from school administration.

The chair invited online attendees to raise their hand for public comment. No one came forward and the meeting moved directly to the Town Administrator update.

A board member providing a ‘Creating a Healthier Marblehead’ (COMM) update reported the initiative has reached approximately 50% of its fundraising target. Recent outreach included meetings with Marblehead Pediatrics, the Female Humane Society, and the Marblehead Ministerial Association. A presentation to the Select Board is planned, pending scheduling after Town Meeting.

The board discussed current MMR vaccine guidance, including the option to vaccinate children as young as six months when traveling to high-risk areas, with the caveat that an early dose requires a third shot. A board member noted a planned future presentation on measles ‘immune amnesia’—a condition in which active measles infection can deplete prior immune protection in a subset of individuals.

Regarding the Marblehead Mental Health Task Force, a meeting with the Marblehead Counseling Center was scheduled for the coming week to explore a closer partnership.

Public comment drew approximately 13 in-person speakers and at least one online speaker. Key themes:

Flag policy opponents argued the draft policy’s ‘symbolic displays’ language was overbroad, covering clothing, logos, religious symbols, and student artwork; that no statutory requirement for such a policy exists; that the no-third-party-petition clause was unconstitutional; and that the policy infringed on teacher and student First Amendment rights. Speakers referenced the collective bargaining agreement and compared the draft unfavorably to existing town and Housing Authority flag policies.

Flag policy supporters argued the policy would promote school neutrality and prevent selective flag display; noted that the Israeli flag had been removed from the high school cafeteria while other flags remained; and said the policy was necessary to prevent students from feeling excluded.

Antisemitism investigation speakers expressed dismay that most allegations were not corroborated, argued the investigator should have applied the IHRA definition of antisemitism exclusively, and described personal experiences of antisemitism in Marblehead. One speaker announced she was running for school committee. Another speaker, a 2018 MHS graduate, defended the teacher at the center of allegations.

A resident opened public comment by raising concerns about large signs being carried in public buildings, citing safety and fire-code access issues. The resident also questioned the pace of new administrative hires given budget constraints, suggested using existing employees on stipends rather than new full-time positions, and expressed concern about housing affordability for longtime residents as property values rise.

A resident physician offered public comment reinforcing the importance of communicating uncertainty during public health events, quoting former NIH Director Francis Collins’s self-criticism that public health officials “failed to say every time we made a recommendation, guys, this is the best we can do right now, there is a good chance that this is wrong.”

The town moderator joined remotely and made two requests for town meeting:

1. A brief update on the transfer station construction project under Article 2 (reports from boards and committees).
2. That the Board of Health hold its budget line item and make a presentation at town meeting given the significant upcoming contract changes.

A resident also raised the topic of single-stream recycling, suggesting that separating recyclables by type (as done at the transfer station drop-off) produces a more valuable commodity. The director confirmed this is accurate but noted that state recycling mandates and curbside collection contracts make a return to dual-stream difficult.

The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

Public comment ran well beyond the 15-minute limit and was extended by a 4-0 vote. Speakers included:

• Kira Kay (Pickwick Road) questioned why the proposed policy had not changed despite community opposition, a student alternative, and a statement from the state Commissioner of Education emphasizing inclusive school environments.
• Liv Niles (MHS junior) described a student-authored alternative policy vetted by GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD), and reported that 103 of 109 students surveyed said students should have a voice in flag policy decisions.
• Margaret Carter (Fer Street) challenged the legal rationale, questioned enforcement practicality, and asked the committee to release the specific legal language requiring the restrictive approach.
• Renee Ramirez-Keeny (Beverly Ave) shared clinical stories from her career as a social worker to illustrate the developmental importance of symbols of inclusion for children.
• Brent Speed (Gerald Road, attorney) argued that longstanding Supreme Court precedent allows schools to regulate student speech without a blanket ban, and warned the current draft may itself expose the district to First Amendment claims.
• Kathleen Terren (Devereaux Ave, remote) expressed concern that the policy signals distrust in educators and does not support marginalized students.
• Angus McLoan (Tyson Lane) called the policy “policy by political objective,” argued the third-party petition ban is unconstitutional, and recommended tabling the policy indefinitely or adopting the student-drafted alternative.
• Jeanie Lampkin (remote) urged the committee to consider long-term legacy and the developmental needs of high school students.
• Henry Gusto (Mohawk Road) connected the third graders’ leadership presentation to the values at stake in the flag policy debate and urged adoption of the student policy.

The chair opened the floor for public comment. No one in the audience or online came forward. The meeting adjourned at 8:05 PM.

The chair opened public comment with a 15-minute cap and three-minute-per-speaker limit. Speakers included:

• Angus McQuilkin — argued the subcommittee ignored community and student feedback, questioned the legal foundation (a non-Massachusetts case), and challenged the definition of ‘third party’ under the proposed policy.
• Meg O’Hare (28 Roosevelt Ave.) — a recent Marblehead homeowner who expressed disappointment in the committee’s work and questioned the need for a school-committee-controlled flag policy when a simple principal-approval model exists.
• Chris Bru — said community forums felt performative, described the policy as a ‘flag censorship policy,’ and said he looked forward to voting in new school committee members in June.
• Sharman Pollander — a 20-year resident and person of color who described personal and family experiences with racial harassment since 2021, pushed back against white advocates speaking on behalf of communities of color, and alleged the administration failed to properly report a racial incident involving ‘Nyla.’
• Cindy Tower Loehn (12 Trinity Road) — expressed agreement with the other critics, criticized the short notice for the meeting (posted with only the legally required 48-hour notice at 11:30 a.m. on a Friday), and said she believed the dispute centered on the Black Lives Matter flag.
• Krie Lequin — spoke in support of students’ flag proposal and the importance of inclusive school environments.
• Kate Thompson (Bo Road) — asked the committee to issue a formal, plain-language response to the students’ proposal and questioned when the policy subcommittee would return to routine policy work, noting that in nearly two years the subcommittee had focused almost exclusively on the flag issue.
• Nyla Duah — defended the committee’s approach, arguing no single student group speaks for the entire district, distinguishing student free-speech rights from government speech, and supporting a neutral policy that prevents any faction from deciding which symbols represent everyone.
• Audrey House Lincoln — said she would remove her child from Marblehead schools if the flag policy passed, and recounted a child coming home with a racist statement heard at school.

During online public comment, Mr. Cantor asked the committee two questions: (1) whether the approximately $947,000 federal funding line item in FY26 and FY27 budgets was at risk given federal-level uncertainty, and (2) whether the committee had considered creating its own Facebook group to post agenda materials proactively. The chair noted that both topics would be addressed later in the meeting.

Three residents commented during public comment:

1. Online participant asked for clarification on the Mental Health Task Force’s status. The board clarified it is not disbanding but evolving; the task force has not taken formal action and is awaiting board direction before the chair schedules another meeting.

2. Same participant asked about measles booster recommendations given the New Jersey outbreak. The board deferred to state guidance; one member relayed that an infectious disease physician at Beverly Hospital indicated adults do not need a booster unless traveling to an affected area.

3. In-room resident and Diane Gora (24 Nicholson Street, via Zoom) raised website usability issues: outdated fee information on the briefly-live new site (showing $80 sticker fee instead of current $100), difficulty finding meeting agendas and a master calendar, and a request that posted notices include the date posted for clarity. Director Petty acknowledged the issues and committed to addressing them before relaunch.

During the open public comment period following the budget hearing, one in-person speaker — a Marblehead teacher of more than 30 years — urged the committee to approve the Kulovich naming request. She said she could attest to Alexander Kulovich’s character through her experience teaching several of his grandchildren and knowing his son Tom, describing them as kind, giving, hardworking, and 100% effort-oriented.

Albert Jordan of Roosevelt Avenue addressed the board during public comment, suggesting GPS tracking on police cruisers similar to state police practice, and urging the board to explore removing the Marblehead Police Department from civil service. He cited Swampscott as a local example and expressed concern about future costs if no structural changes are made.

The forum drew testimony from a wide range of community members. Key themes:

In favor of an inclusive/student-proposed policy (majority view)

• A Marblehead Middle School student, Jack (last name unclear from ASR), read statements from over 60 middle school peers who signed an online petition opposing a flag ban as an “unnecessary breach of freedom” and arguing students had not been adequately consulted.
• A speaker from the Marblehead Racial Justice Team quoted a 2021 statement supporting Black Lives Matter banners and urged the subcommittee not to abandon such banners in any policy it constructs.
• Multiple speakers — including a Marblehead Pride Committee representative (Reese Stalberg and Jessica Brown) — cited First Amendment case law (Tinker, Mahanoy Area School District v. B.L., Siskey v. Warren Hills) and a February 7, 2025 DESE acting commissioner memo affirming schools’ obligation to support marginalized students including LGBTQ+ youth.
• The Marblehead Pride Committee, MassEquality board president Rob Henry, a high school science teacher (Connor Kozłowski-Maza), and a high school English teacher (Ashley Skeffington) all urged adoption of the student-drafted policy.
• The student-drafted policy — read into the record by Chair Shaffner — would limit outdoor flagpole display to official government flags (U.S., Massachusetts, POW/MIA, Marblehead) while requiring administrator approval for any interior postings, protecting First Amendment rights of students, teachers, and affiliated groups.
• Parent speakers cited Trevor Project data (42% of surveyed LGBTQ+ youth considered suicide in the prior year) and personal coming-out stories as evidence of the real-world stakes.
• A parent (Angus McIl, online) echoed middle school students’ call for a separate student forum at the middle school, noting those students were not notified about the February high school forum.
• A statement read on behalf of Jordan Caris (unable to attend due to medical emergency) noted two open lawsuits against the district and urged the subcommittee to adopt the student-drafted policy vetted by GLAD attorneys.
• A retired educator and former director of student services praised the student proposal.
• A 40-year LGBTQ+ rights advocate (Holly James) spoke of never having seen affirming symbols growing up and supported keeping Pride and BLM flags.

Supporting a neutral/government-flags-only policy (minority view)

• Karen (last name unclear) argued schools, as public institutions, must remain politically neutral; she cited the removal of an Israeli flag as an example of double standards when no policy exists and said she had received an anonymous intimidating letter after writing to the paper about it.
• A speaker (Lena Robinson, online) argued the controversy reflects a false zero-sum framing, suggested the debate fosters tribal identity alignment, and asked the committee to limit school-endorsed flags to U.S. and Massachusetts flags.
• Sarah (last name unclear, online) and Ian Kingsbury (online) favored returning to only the American flag and argued symbols should not be imposed on an entire community.
• A speaker (Nyla, student, Village School) offered brief remarks supporting flags that show respect.
• One in-person speaker (name unclear) questioned whether any data existed showing widespread discrimination in Marblehead schools, argued that displaying certain flags forces a viewpoint on others, and raised the hypothetical of a MAGA or “don’t tread on me” flag.

Process concerns

• A speaker (H.M. Pepper, 41 Jut Street) criticized the subcommittee’s process as a “confusing series of starts and stops,” noted the October 2023 draft policy was later disavowed, and said the public did not know what draft was actually under consideration. She urged the subcommittee to move forward with the student-drafted policy rather than generate yet another school-committee draft.

Chair clarifications

• Shaffner confirmed there is currently no flag policy; Massachusetts law requires a U.S. flag in every classroom.
• Shaffner noted that roughly seven or eight other Massachusetts school districts have adopted flag policies (e.g., Framingham, Sharon); the subcommittee is aware of those models.
• Shaffner read the student-drafted policy into the record and clarified it would place interior display decisions with administrators, not the school committee.
• Shaffner confirmed that unauthorized removal of any flag or artwork would be handled by building administration, as occurred with both the BLM and Israeli flags.
• Shaffner announced the subcommittee would meet in the coming days or weeks; written comments can be sent to schoolcommittee@marbleheadschools.org.

The meeting adjourned at approximately 9 p.m.

Several public comments were addressed:

• A resident asked how to access meeting minutes; the health director explained they are posted on the town website under Board of Health by calendar year.
• A resident suggested the board collect and compare tobacco and body art regulations from neighboring communities to demonstrate legal cost duplication to state legislators.
• A resident asked about the board’s response to correspondence from Megan Sweeney regarding federal actions affecting transgender health data. The board discussed that Massachusetts-level protections remain in place and that Marblehead does not collect the type of demographic health data described. The board declined to issue a formal statement mirroring Salem’s language but noted it continues to make science-based decisions.

The chair opened the meeting and invited public comment. No attendees came forward in person or raised hands online.

A resident identified as Heather asked whether Marblehead had considered prohibiting tobacco sales to anyone born in or after 2000, referencing a similar policy in Brookline. The director indicated the board would consider such options when reviewing tobacco regulations.

Amanda Lori, a reporter with the Daily Item new to Marblehead, asked about the financial impact of the compactor being down (~$4,500/day in lost commercial revenue), the total FY26 budget, and whether the budget is level-funded. The director explained the waste budget cannot be level-funded due to a 3% annual contractual increase, and provided a copy of the budget document.

The board discussed postponing a planned community substance abuse awareness night, originally set for March, to late spring when eighth graders transition to the high school. A board member noted meeting with the acting superintendent to explore scheduling a drug-themed theater production, potentially piggybacking on a Swampscott production. Concerns were raised about event costs, board coordination, and budgeting for programs not yet formally approved.

Several residents addressed the board during the Q&A portion:

Jim Regis (1 Lee Street) raised three issues: (1) the Municipal Light Department contributing $360K to the town budget while light poles in disrepair; (2) whether school buildings should come under town management given the high school roof/HVAC cost escalation; (3) concern that projected 5% expense growth vs. 2.5% revenue growth creates a compounding gap, and that authorized-but-unborrowed debt is not fully reflected in the fiscal picture.

Albert Jordan (Roosevelt Avenue) expressed concern about the cumulative impact of raises, fee increases, and health insurance costs on fixed-income elderly residents, specifically those on social security or small pensions.

Christine Nuccio (3 Dams Way) asked how short-term rental (Airbnb) compliance is tracked. Staff responded that approximately 400+ are registered with the state; the new Community Development and Planning department will inventory the full scope and evaluate possible regulations.

Lee Lander (West Port Lane) sought clarification on the distinction between a general override and a debt exclusion override, and asked when residents will know what debt exclusions may be requested. Staff confirmed the warrant hearing (approximately April 10) is when FinCom votes recommendations; specific project costs (e.g., Mary Alley) are pending engineering reports.

Jonathan Hiller (Ralph Road) asked about the timeline for citizens to learn what debt exclusions will be proposed before town meeting; staff confirmed articles are listed in Select Board warrant discussions and finalized at the warrant hearing.

High school roof discussion: A resident questioned the cost increase from the original ~$5M estimate to approximately $8.8M (roof alone) or ~$14M (roof plus HVAC). Mike (school facilities representative) explained the original estimate was informal, no paid feasibility study was conducted, and the increased scope reflects removal and replacement of all rooftop mechanical equipment plus inflationary escalation for a project now targeted for the following summer.

David Patton (Lee Street) asked about MBTA Communities grant exposure: CFO confirmed no grant revenues are pre-budgeted, and that the state had withheld contract signing until January pending the zoning vote; future grant applications could be affected if the zoning article does not pass.

Two residents provided public comment. The first spoke about school climate and diversity, referencing a prior meeting discussion about a flag and urging the committee to consider student voice in creating an inclusive environment. The second, Michael Calpin (7 Sapphire), raised a question about bonding a high school roof replacement over 30 years when the existing roof lasted only about 20 years, asking what roofing product and lifespan would be used. The chair noted the roof would be addressed later on the agenda.

The chair called the meeting to order at 7:01 PM and opened public comment. No members of the public were present in the room or online to speak.

Renee Keeny (Beverly Avenue) returned after commenting at the August 14 meeting. She relayed that students Marin Potter and Nina Johnson, who have continued surveying peers, report that an overwhelming majority believe flag and banner decisions should rest with the principal and superintendent in consultation with students, not with the school committee. She argued that a restrictive policy removes a valuable civic-learning opportunity.

A second speaker (name unclear from audio) offered a counterpoint, saying that certain symbols—including the pride flag and Black Lives Matter flag—do not speak for all members of those communities, and questioned whether government institutions should mandate values in schools.

Chris Brule (212 West Shore Drive) argued that the flag policy is uniquely personal to students and that holding the meeting at 9:30 a.m. on a Wednesday when students cannot attend is inappropriate.

During public comment, a resident praised transfer station employee Marty and raised ongoing dog waste issues observed on daily walks through town, noting a neighbor had self-funded a waste station at Crocker Park. The resident also suggested the Essex Tech vocational school could be engaged for transfer station construction projects such as the swap shop, as has been done in other communities. The DPW director acknowledged this as a possibility for future phases while noting schedule constraints in an active facility.

The health director noted elevated levels of norovirus and COVID-19 in the community and encouraged residents to wash hands, stay home when sick, and wear masks. COVID rapid test kits are available at the health department office (state-funded) and distributed to the Council on Aging. A board member noted that kits cost approximately $8 each online.

The director indicated that an opinion from town counsel on the Swan’s Squad matter — regarding the respective responsibilities of the Board of Health and the department — had not yet been received. The item was tabled to the next meeting.

Dr. Zaro reported that the Marblehead Mental Health Task Force, co-led by Dr. Labon and Joanne Miller, continues to grow, with 17 participants at its most recent meeting. The task force does not provide direct clinical services but serves as a coordination and education body.

The Board of Health has begun fundraising to secure a contract with UMass Boston for a community health assessment study, estimated to cost $45,000, with plans to begin the study in spring. The Marblehead Rotary Club subsequently announced a $10,000 donation toward the effort during public comment.

A representative of the Marblehead Counseling Center (MCC) provided the annual update to the board. Key figures from 2024:

• Approximately 400 clients served, 53% from Marblehead, for roughly 7,000 clinical hours
• Current wait list: 235 individuals, approximately 43% (about 100 people) from Marblehead; roughly 25 are children
• Wait list breakdown: 10 from 2025, 105 from 2024, 121 from 2023

Staffing: 7 licensed clinicians, 2 master’s-level graduate students working toward licensure (supported by a Cummings Foundation grant), and 1 intern from Salem State. One additional licensed clinician position is being recruited.

Facilities: First-floor renovations at the Hobbs building were completed in May, creating a HIPAA-compliant reception area. A new boiler was installed with ARPA funds. A former kitchen area is being converted to group meeting space; the back porch egress project is pending.

Funding request: The board currently allocates approximately $60,000; MCC is requesting restoration to the prior level of $120,000 for FY26.

The center also reported that social services staff helped divert 14 evictions in 2024 and served over 200 clients for social services needs. A new case manager, Catherine Percy, was recently hired.

No members of the public — in-person or online — came forward during the public comment period. Student representative Ella reported that classes had resumed smoothly, the senior show is January 12 at 3:00 PM ($20 students/$25 non-students), the varsity girls basketball team plays at TD Garden on Saturday at 11:30 AM, the musical this year will be Hades Town with auditions January 15, parent yearbook dedications are due February 15, and junior seminars begin the following week with a parent/guardian night on January 15 at 6:00 PM.

Albert Jordan (Roosevelt Avenue) expressed opposition to a potential property tax override, arguing that many older residents on fixed incomes cannot afford higher taxes, and suggested the town form a residents’ committee to identify cost savings.

Nick Ward (Rollon Road) summarized the SJC’s same-day ruling in the Milton case, noting it upheld the Attorney General’s enforcement authority but found the EOHLC guidelines were improperly promulgated. He urged the board not to rush into compliance with any emergency regulations, arguing that the three-to-six month regulatory re-promulgation window gives housing advocates time to catalog towns’ attempts at ‘paper compliance’ and push for tighter final regulations. He also argued that market-rate multifamily housing increases affordability in an absolute sense even without below-market subsidies.

Deborah Noah, a parent and Hebrew school teacher at Congregation Shirat Hayam, said scheduling makeup days on Saturdays would be offensive given that Sundays were not offered out of respect for the Christian Sabbath. She also questioned why only parents had not been the sole survey respondents.

Yael (last name not provided), a parent with children at the high school and Veterans School, suggested that if weekend days were required, they should be divided equally between Saturdays and Sundays. She also raised concerns about what she described as union agendas affecting Jewish teachers and students.

Rabbi Michael Schwartz emphasized the personal impact on individual students, citing the example of a bar mitzvah candidate whose celebration could be disrupted, and suggested shorter April break or added end-of-year days as alternatives.

Janice Knight, Director of Jewish Education at Congregation Shirat in Swampscott and a Marblehead resident, said 40% of her Saturday morning program’s students are Marblehead residents and that losing five Saturdays would significantly harm her program.

The chair invited public comment both in-person and online. No members of the public came forward to speak.

During the public comment period, one resident asked for clarification on the cashless payment transition and noted he had observed residents and others improperly disposing of materials in the recycling dumpsters. The health director confirmed that license plate reader (LPR) cameras, once installed, will be used to identify illegal dumping and issue fines. The board adjourned at approximately 9:55 p.m.

Resident John DePi, whose hand had been raised during public comment, was recognized after the chair reconvened the meeting. He characterized the work stoppage as an illegal strike by civil servants, described coordinated action among Marblehead, Beverly, and Gloucester teacher unions, and stated his family had moved their child to private school. He cited a figure of 77 Marblehead families reportedly moving to private schools and said the MEA’s rhetoric had been dangerous. He called on MEA officers John Van, Sally, Hannah Hood, and Allison Carey to issue a public apology, stating that such an apology would be necessary for any override to have a meaningful chance of passing. His remarks were interrupted by off-mic voices before the chair closed public comment and adjourned at 8:08 PM.

• Daniel Rosen (31 E Street) asked the school committee, union, and town to undertake a formal lessons-learned process following superintendent contract disputes, citing his 25 years of project management experience.
• Mary McCarrison (Pinecliff Drive) thanked committee members and staff for securing livable wages and safe schools.
• Samantha Rosado (Martin Terrace) expressed frustration that a high school roof project approved at town meeting in 2022 for approximately $4 million has grown to approximately $11 million and now requires an override, and noted ongoing mold concerns.
• Kate Thompson (Booba Road) stated the facilities subcommittee had not met in over a year, asked for documentation of FY25 budget requests, and called on Sarah Fox to step down as chair of the facilities subcommittee, also characterizing an email she received from Fox as personally offensive.

Albert Jordan of Roosevelt Avenue thanked whoever resolved the issue of library lights remaining on around the clock, and noted that Peabody received a state grant of over $200,000 for energy efficiency in public buildings, suggesting Marblehead pursue similar funding.

He also expressed strong criticism of the recent teachers’ strike, arguing that striking public employees should forfeit pay from day one, that teachers who caused 11 missed school days should work those days without compensation, and that union members should not picket near town meeting entrances.

Multiple residents addressed the Select Board during public comment:

• Mary Leblanc (30 Peach Highlands), literacy coach and teacher: Called on the community to support fair wages, parental leave, and bereavement leave, and urged the school committee and town administrator to settle the contract immediately.
• John Wales (8 Jefferson Street): Described an emergency motion for injunctive relief filed in Lawrence Superior Court on behalf of a diverse group of Marblehead High School students, seeking to allow extracurricular activities and sports to continue during the work stoppage. He cited a playoff football game, a cheer competition, a performing arts senior showcase, and a state cross country meet with college scouts attending as events at risk. He referenced Beverly schools as a comparable district allowing activities to proceed.
• Jane Kassler (199 Washington Street): Raised the MBTA Communities Act, noting the December 31 compliance deadline, the town’s prior vote against compliance, and potential penalties including loss of state grants and possible action by the Attorney General.
• Catherine Wilmont Sullivan, school adjustment counselor at Glover School: Described low morale, staff departures, and the loss of special educators at Village School (10 special educators this year), urging the board to act on the contract and the override.
• Jen Billings (67 Atlantic Avenue), English teacher at Marblehead High School: Stated that mediation has not produced results and accused the school committee of making no substantive counter-proposals. She cited paraprofessional starting wages of $16–$17 per hour and called for face-to-face bargaining.

Dr. Coyle, director of a research center within UMass Boston’s Gerontology Institute, presented a community health needs assessment proposal for Marblehead. Key elements include:

• Document and existing data review, including a demographic profile from American Community Survey data
• Three focus groups targeting specific community voices, including potentially families with children under 18
• Survey of ~16,000 residents age 18+ via postcard driving respondents to an online survey, with paper and phone options; approximately 1,600 responses (10%) expected
• Approximately 40–45 questions, taking respondents roughly 15 minutes to complete
• Timeline: Kickoff and IRB approval in late spring 2025; focus groups and survey development summer 2025; survey distribution September 2025; final report by approximately March 2026
• Cost: $40,000–$45,000

Topics expected to emerge include financial security, mental health and stress, substance misuse, caregiving, and health promotion activities. The board noted Swampscott achieved a 33% response rate by mailing physical surveys to residents age 60+, and set an informal goal of exceeding 35%.

The board discussed forming a steering committee of strategic stakeholder partners before the June kickoff, with a smaller subgroup to review survey design. The board also discussed fundraising, noting approximately $8,000 in Mental Health Task Force funds as a starting point.

The board voted unanimously to proceed with the project.

Before the formal agenda began, a resident (Mary McCarrison) raised concerns about Zoom technical difficulties at public meetings and asked why MHTV was not recording meetings directly. The chair repeated her concerns for the remote audience and explained that the meeting is recorded and live-streamed, and MHTV has been granted full access to use that stream. McCarrison had also emailed the school committee with legal questions; the chair noted attorney-client privilege precluded sharing legal counsel’s advice publicly.

Resident Albert Jordan, 64 Roosevelt Avenue, addressed the board with concerns about energy waste at town facilities, citing lights left on overnight at the new library and school buildings. He said he had raised the issue with the library director and other officials without resolution and suggested the board establish a subcommittee to receive public input on cost-saving ideas, noting he had found Finance Committee meetings unreceptive to public questions.

Seven speakers addressed the committee during public comment, representing the Marblehead Education Association and individual educators:

• Jonathan Heller (MEA Co-President, 26 Ralph Road) read a letter signed by over 700 people — 70% Marblehead residents and educators — calling for competitive wages, modern parental leave, minimum-wage compliance for hourly workers, and a safety commitment.
• Hannah Partica (Glover School kindergarten teacher) described commuting 1,200 hours per year because she cannot afford to live closer on her current salary, and said she does not know how much longer she can stay.
• Laura Gellan (Village School therapeutic teacher) reported being hit, punched, kicked, spit on, and suffering a broken nose; stated Village School has lost nine special-ed staff since last year and cannot hire qualified replacements because McDonald’s and Starbucks pay more than tutors and paraprofessionals.
• Jenny Wilkins (teacher and parent of three MPS students) corroborated the safety concerns, saying she broke her kneecap and that short-staffing creates a domino effect of crises.
• Allison Carey (MHS social worker, reading on behalf of Kate Kelly, Spanish teacher) described a complicated pregnancy with only 21 paid days of leave, during which her son was born with a cleft lip and she was diagnosed with cholestasis.
• Megan Kelvin (MEA educator/parent) detailed a contractual salary-schedule cap that limits school nurses to no higher than step 9 / lane M, creating a greater-than-$13,000 gap versus other Unit A members, and said a proposal to remedy it would cost the district $0 today.
• Bill Shaw (22-year Vets teacher, 17 Brookhouse Drive) expressed concern that bargaining sessions are adversarial and dominated by the school committee’s outside legal counsel, Attorney Elizabeth Valerio, and urged the committee to work with teachers rather than against them.
• Michael Fu (MHS computer-science/math teacher, 43 Smith Street) cited $403,000 in legal fees paid over 18 months and asked the committee to reconsider its legal-counsel approach; he noted that educators rejected proposals for modern parental leave and bereavement leave including pregnancy loss.
• Alex Jimenez (parent, 6 Legs Hill Road) urged the committee to support salary increases and offered to participate in fundraising or other community efforts to help address the financial shortfall.

The chair called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM and solicited public comment. No members of the public were present at the microphone and no one was online, so the board proceeded directly to administrator updates.

A member of the public asked two questions:

1. The total transfer station project budget was confirmed at approximately $1.55 million.
2. Whether any of the $90,000 Best Practices grant could be redirected to fund the $35,000 community health assessment — the answer was no, as the grant has specific designated uses. The board noted that additional grant sources are being explored and community fundraising is a possibility, though a formal approach to the select board for funding is unlikely in the near term.

A board member described the third annual Marblehead Mental Health 5K scheduled for Sunday, November 3rd (daylight saving time), starting and finishing at the Boston Yacht Club, organized by the Rotary Club. Proceeds support the Inner Explore mindfulness program in Marblehead schools. The member offered a personal incentive: an additional $20 donation for each participant who beats his prior year time, up to $500, with a $500 bonus if Congressman Seth Moulton participates and beats his time.

Ron Knight, commander of the Chaplain Lyman Rollins VFW Post 2005 at 321 West Shore Drive, thanked the board for its prior permit approval and reported the Run Rucker Walk raised over $9,000 for Company to Heroes. He presented the board with challenge coins commemorating the VFW’s 125th anniversary and invited members to a free brunch for veterans on the upcoming Sunday.

Albert Jordan of Roosevelt Avenue raised two concerns. He argued that taxpayers who missed the abatement window following errors in the assessor’s office should be given relief through special legislation, and praised the town’s newly hired assessor. He also detailed longstanding maintenance issues at Waterside Cemetery — including fallen tree limbs on graves, broken water facilities not repaired for months, and a lack of recognition for a retiring 30-year employee — and suggested the cemetery superintendent position be placed under the town administrator’s oversight.

Sally Shery addressed the committee, honoring Catherine Martin for her service and mourning the 2022 loss of Glover teacher Brooke Yano after more than 15 years of service. She noted that requests for memorials — a library, plaque, or bench — had been told they conflicted with school committee policy, and urged the committee to revise that policy so memorials could be established for both educators.

Residents addressed the board during public comment. A selection of views expressed:

• A resident from Pond Street raised concern about up to 1,200 additional cars from potential development and suggested an environmental legal challenge.
• Nick Ward (Rolleston Road) supported 3A zoning, citing the town’s projected $10 million operating deficit by 2029 and a Milton planning study showing a positive budget contribution of $350,000–$1 million annually from 3A zoning.
• A resident calling in online compared the state’s position to tyranny and noted Marblehead’s limited transit infrastructure.
• Bill Keeny (Beverly Ave.) said he supported the compliance plan and the special meeting proposal, but respected the board’s decision not to proceed.
• Lori Barnum (West Shore Drive) cited cumulative traffic impacts over 28 years as her primary opposition.
• John DiPipano (Trager Road) thanked the board for not proceeding and described efforts to negotiate unit counts down, citing Topsfield’s reduction from 750 to 118 units.
• A resident from Nashua Avenue suggested the town may already meet density requirements and urged a negotiation approach.
• Trevor Moore (Redstone Lane) noted that unfunded infrastructure projects would ultimately be paid through taxes.
• Sarah Fox (Beach Street) described the town’s budget situation as a fixed-pot math problem, noting that without additional revenue sources, service or staffing cuts are the only alternative.
• A resident from Mohawk Road raised concerns about town financial management practices.
• Kurt James (Norman Street) encouraged residents to engage with the Housing Committee, which meets monthly.

A resident warned the committee that substitute teachers prefer neighboring districts over Marblehead and urged that contract negotiations be made public, particularly to reach older voters whose support would be needed for any override ballot question. A second resident briefly praised community involvement around the Brown School garden.

Public comment ran approximately 45 minutes with more than a dozen speakers split between opposing and supporting a special town meeting to reconsider the MBTA Communities Act zoning article.

Opponents argued the article had been voted down twice — once on the merits and once on a motion for reconsideration — and that convening a special town meeting would undermine Marblehead’s town-meeting tradition. One speaker read aloud what he described as a personal email from the board chair promoting the Marblehead Housing Coalition and alleged possible Open Meeting Law concerns. Several residents contended the zoning overlay would enable up to 900 new units, most of which would not be affordable.

Supporters argued the planning board produced a careful, measured overlay plan; that the December 31, 2024 compliance deadline creates real financial risk; and that many residents were confused or absent on the second night of town meeting when the article narrowly failed by 33 votes. One speaker identified himself as a founding member of the Marblehead Housing Coalition and disputed characterizations of the group’s membership. Another noted environmental and fiscal benefits of denser housing near transit.

The chair responded to “personal attacks” by stating she has publicly supported housing solutions since her campaign and that the board had adopted a Housing Production Plan in 2021.

Resident Mr. Jordan addressed the board and Police Chief King regarding two recent incidents: a high-speed chase near a beach area and a tasing incident in which a resident was reportedly tased in the back. He questioned whether the suspended officer would be retrained before being issued a taser again and expressed concern about liability and public safety.

The meeting opened with approximately 15 minutes of public comment on the committee’s draft flag and banner policy. Speakers included:

• Renee Ramirez Keeni (Beverly Avenue) — clinical social worker for 40 years; asked whether the policy would allow student voice and whether it would prohibit pride and Black Lives Matter flags that students and staff want.
• Cameron Wolson (resident who relocated from South Carolina) — expressed concern the policy contradicts the district’s stated mission of inclusivity.
• Nina Johnson and Marin Potter (students at Marblehead High School) — stated that flags currently hanging (BLM, pride, Juneteenth) serve as support systems; argued the policy was being rushed before school started to avoid student input, and that a student petition provision had been removed.
• Jordan Caress Wheelright (Lafayette Street, GLAD staff member) — shared that three senior constitutional law attorneys at GLAD cautioned the policy extends beyond flag-pole control and could expose the district to First Amendment lawsuits; cited vague language around “banners and similar symbolic displays.”
• Homeowner/educator (unnamed) — called the policy unnecessary and potentially costly to litigate.
• Mary McCarriston (Pine Cliff Drive) — read a poem written by her third-grade child about inclusion.
• Unnamed resident (19 Peck Road) — said she was saddened by the policy and suggested it stemmed from outside groups.
• Sonia Soberg Potter (7 Emerald Ave) — argued a flag policy that does not prioritize student voice is “irresponsible.”
• Chris Paru (212 West Shore Drive) — cited the committee’s own operating procedures requiring community involvement and stated the current process conflicts with those rules.
• Beth Wolson (16 Road) — former police officer; echoed her wife Cameron’s comments.

Following public comment, a committee member (identified as chairing in the absence of chair Jen Schaffner, who participated via Zoom while ill) clarified that the policy is not a ban on anything, that it arose from an administration request, that previous readings were not final, and that additional readings would occur in the school year.

A resident asked whether the closed trash trailers could be retrofitted with sprinkler ports following the July fire. The director explained that closed trailers limit oxygen and tend to self-suppress smoldering fires, and that he would follow up with CWT.

Another resident noted new bulletin boards appearing at beaches and asked about their purpose. The director explained these are state-required sanitary sewer overflow notification boards funded by a state grant, installed at approximately 10 locations, and will also carry bathing beach closure and dog-on-beach information going forward.

A resident also mentioned informally assisting with storm debris cleanup and delivering material to the transfer station, which the director confirmed is welcome and consistent with how the department works with community volunteers cleaning up neighborhood beaches and fishing areas.

No members of the public appeared in person or online to offer public comment.

During the public comment portion, committee member Samantha Rosado raised a question about the funding mechanism for expanding the assistant director of student services from 0.5 to 1.0 FTE. She questioned whether the pre-K/kindergarten revolving fund was the appropriate source, given the language under which that fund was established. A school administrator explained that the position’s work would primarily involve early childhood students, making the pre-K/K fund an appropriate funding vehicle for the current school year, though they acknowledged it was a short-term solution.

Albert Jordan (Roosevelt Street) addressed the board on three topics:

1. Veterans agent: Urged preference for a local candidate who can provide after-hours and weekend support as past agents have done.

2. Fireworks barge fire: Suggested the town require inspection of barges before they are moored, noting millions of dollars in nearby boat property and the luck that the fire occurred at 1:30 AM.

3. Property tax billing: Criticized the assessor’s office for repeated billing errors, noting that some residents paid incorrect amounts or missed abatement deadlines because they assumed errors were not correctable. He called for the assessor’s office to hold public meetings in a publicly accessible space with video recording.

Social media and gun violence (board member, not public): The chair noted U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murphy’s statements comparing social media addiction to cigarettes and declaring gun violence a public health crisis. She suggested Andrew work with the school health coordinator to add related questions to student surveys.

Opioid settlement funds (resident): A resident asked about the Supreme Court’s reversal of the Purdue Pharma/Sackler settlement and whether the approximately $110,000 received by the town (with several thousand already spent on Narcan boxes) would need to be returned. The director said he would check with town counsel. The resident also noted that community input is required before spending opioid funds; the director referenced a committee established by the select board and mentioned a survey used by Swampscott as a potential model.

HAWK partnership (Terry Toro, 113 Jersey St.): President of the Marblehead Municipal Employees Union described a pilot program training union members as HAWK domestic violence liaisons. Approximately 50 people trained across two sessions; at least 10 union members in domestic violence situations have been connected to HAWK services. Program is being expanded statewide through the AFL-CIO.

Transfer station (resident): A resident praised the flag disposal bin, suggested engaging the vocational school for the prefab buildings, and urged stronger enforcement of non-resident disposal fees.

School committee clarification (Allison Taylor, 285 West Shore Dr., school committee vice chair, via phone): Clarified that the school committee does provide bills online in meeting packets, votes on them in public session, and the chair signs by hand — responding to earlier discussion comparing board practices.

Director of Community Based Services Ella Serta and site director Hannah Gagne presented on the YWCA North Shore Rape Crisis Center’s services. The organization provides:

• Free, confidential individual counseling for survivors age 12 and up and non-offending family members
• 24/7/365 crisis hotline
• In-person hospital accompaniment for evidence collection (rape kits) at SANE-certified hospitals including Salem, Beverly, Addison Gilbert, and Anna Jacques
• Court and police accompaniment
• Prevention presentations in schools, including quarterly sessions at Marblehead High School with health teacher Carlos Selo, expanded this year from seniors to include freshmen

Topics covered in school presentations include consent, healthy vs. unhealthy relationships, bystander intervention, and sexual violence resources. The organization also works with inmates at Middleton and Essex Correctional Facility under PREA.

Funding comes primarily from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. The board discussed adding YWCA information to the town’s redesigned website and noted the organization is not currently listed there.

One resident, Albert Jordan of Roosevelt Street, raised several concerns during public comment:

• Department head contracts: Asked the HR director to include 90-day termination clauses in future department head contracts so the town is not obligated to pay individuals who are not working.
• Outdoor dining: Expressed opposition to allowing tables on sidewalks, noting accessibility issues for elderly residents navigating around Jersey barriers. Described parking scarcity on School Street near Five Corners and questioned why businesses without private parking are permitted to use public space.
• School incidents: Referenced news reports about repeated restraint incidents involving a child at Glover School and suggested police and fire departments should be more involved in evaluating school situations.
• Gas heaters: Asked whether outdoor gas heaters would be permitted at the Barman during cooler months, citing safety concerns.

The chair opened the June 26 meeting with extended remarks acknowledging formal complaints of harassment and discrimination raised at a recent school committee meeting. She noted the complaints are under independent investigation and expressed concern for the town’s Jewish community, citing fear and generational trauma described by Jewish residents. She referenced the American Jewish Committee’s guide on distinguishing anti-Israel political speech from antisemitism and urged residents to speak out against antisemitic incidents. She also noted that Police Chief Dennis King would receive the Stall Award from the Jewish Community Center, reportedly the first non-Jewish community leader to receive the honor.

The chair noted that public participation had inadvertently been dropped from the agenda and asked if the committee wished to open it. The committee agreed. No one in the audience or on Zoom raised a hand to speak, and public comment was closed.

A large crowd — requiring overflow seating in the auditorium — signed up to speak during public comment, which extended well beyond the usual 15-minute limit.

Speakers defending World Language Department teachers included teacher Elmer Magana (18 years at MHS), French teacher Mary Francois, Spanish teacher Laura Alvarez, Latin teacher Dena Nguyen (read by proxy), clinical social worker Judy Louise, consultant Dr. Nicole Scher (read by proxy), school counselor Meredith Rearden, and Deacon John Whipple of the Marblehead Task Force Against Discrimination. They categorically denied antisemitism allegations and described accused teacher Candace Liney as a dedicated anti-discrimination advocate and longtime Team Harmony advisor.

Speakers alleging antisemitism and requesting an independent investigation included teacher Mindy Greenberg, who stated she is leaving the district due to a hostile work environment and that district grievance procedures were not followed after her April 2022 complaint; teacher Jit Kanes; parent and Israeli-American Yael McGinn; sophomore David McGinn, who described identifying antisemitic content in a World Cultures class handout that was subsequently corrected; parent Deborah Noah; parent Sarah Palladian; parent Karen Taal; Lindsay Ne Parsec; Rabbi Yossi Lipski; Rabbi Michael Ragin (urging use of the IHRA definition of antisemitism); and antisemitism-summit organizer Nait Friedlander.

Other speakers included resident Ellan Talguy and resident Judith Drachman, who argued that political activism — on any side — should be kept out of school; and Greg Colts, who provided context on the Israeli flag dispute.

Many speakers called for: (1) an independent investigation conducted by an organization experienced in antisemitism; (2) use of the IHRA definition and examples; (3) Jewish community input in vetting the investigative organization; (4) investigation of antisemitic incidents involving both students and staff; and (5) a review of current curriculum for antisemitic content.

Board members noted attendance at Glover School Field Day and praised teacher Eric Fargo and parent volunteers. A board member commended the graduating class for their politeness at the diploma ceremony.

Two parents — identified as Diane G. (Glover first-grade teacher, 4 Merson Street) and Vanessa (Fieldbrook Road) — addressed the committee. Diane G. noted that first-grade classrooms at Glover would drop from four to three sections in September, raising class sizes to 20–22, and asked the committee to staff appropriately if enrollment increases. Vanessa and another parent offered an extended commendation to sixth-grade Village School teacher Jonathan Heler for organizing the annual Boro outdoor education trip for 164 students.

Albert Jordan, a resident, addressed the board during public comment to raise concerns about outdoor dining enclosures on School Street. He argued that:

• Jersey barriers are an eyesore and create pedestrian safety hazards, particularly for older residents
• People jaywalk across the street between barriers and other establishments at night
• Delivery trucks are forced to block crosswalks because the barriers eliminate curbside access
• The spaces are tied up 24 hours a day but used only briefly
• Street sweepers cannot access the areas between barriers
• Businesses unable to expand outdoors are disadvantaged while competitors benefit from public property

He asked the board to address these concerns on a case-by-case basis and suggested limiting the season and hours of use.

The board welcomed Gina Hart, social worker at Marblehead High School, and Julia Ferrera, assistant superintendent for teaching and learning, who were present to present data from the October 2023 youth survey on substance use and mental health.

A resident speaking at the mic raised two concerns: whether a named individual involved in a prior flag incident was placed on the superintendent search committee, and whether the sole remaining candidate — who she said left his previous position due to conflict with his school committee — would be compatible with the current Marblehead board.

A committee member responding online clarified that it is search consultant Michelle Carlson’s policy not to disclose search committee membership until a search concludes, and that this policy, not school committee purview, explains the lack of disclosure.

The Town Administrator briefed the board on two items included in meeting materials:

1. Quarterly Traffic Safety Advisory Committee report — provided as required by bylaw.
2. Draft HR policies — Five policies were prepared as the town moves toward federal and state compliance now that a Human Resources Director is in place. Policies include: Family and Medical Leave Act, Sexual Harassment (update), Anti-Discrimination/Anti-Harassment, Employee Conduct and Discipline, and the Parental Leave Act. The board discussed whether any policies implicate collective bargaining obligations; the Town Administrator indicated those would be identified before the next meeting. The board expects to review some or all policies at its next regular meeting.

Jonathan H. (26 R Road) and Sally Chevy (0 Garfield Street) addressed the committee on behalf of the Marblehead Education Association. They explained that nearly a year earlier, the school committee had voted to open collective bargaining solely to negotiate a sick leave bank for Unit A. An agreement was reached with former Superintendent Bucky, ratified by the membership, and has been operating since September through HR and the business department. However, they discovered during subsequent collective bargaining that the agreement was never formally voted on by the school committee. They asked the committee to make a formal motion to approve the sick leave bank in the Unit A contract.

Resident Albert Jordan raised a concern about continuity for veterans services given Dave Rogers’ departure, noting Rogers handles bereavement-related inquiries and that a gap in coverage would be problematic. The Town Administrator confirmed that with town meeting now concluded and funding secured, the town will review job descriptions and post this and other vacant positions within days.

A board member provided an update from the Marblehead Mental Health Task Force:

• The Nan Project (suicide prevention/mental health literacy program) presentation has been postponed to the June 3rd virtual/in-person meeting. Approximately 75 North Shore schools are already engaged with the program.
• On June 22nd, the Marblehead Counseling Center will hold a wellness fair at Hobbs Playground, including a garden dedication in memory of Amy Salts, who donated much of her estate to the center.
• The Marblehead Current published a column by Dr. Thomas Zaro summarizing Jonathan Haidt’s The Anxious Generation, recommending that parents, schools, communities, and government take steps to limit youth smartphone and social media use.

Dr. Zaro spoke briefly, highlighting that the minimum age of 13 for app sign-ups was effectively set by tech companies, and that raising it to 16 with enforceable age verification could be the most impactful public health intervention. He noted rising rates of depression, anxiety, and sexual harassment among young people linked to social media exposure, and pointed to European and British regulatory efforts as models.

The discussion also touched on school phone policies, the value of unstructured free play, and research showing that physical writing improves retention compared to typing.

A resident offered public comment on several topics:

• Tenesco Country Club / assessor issue: Concern that Swampscott found a loophole allowing reduced assessments, potentially shifting tax burden to Marblehead residents.
• Board of Health conduct: Described recent meetings as uncivil and called on the Select Board to encourage better decorum across all town boards.
• Traffic & Safety Advisory Committee: Questioned why meetings are held at 4 PM in Abbott Hall when many working residents cannot attend.
• Road conditions: Called for more public reporting from the highway/DPW department and noted deplorable street conditions.
• School staffing: Expressed concern about experienced staff departing, specifically naming a principal (Amanda Murphy) who is leaving.
• Coffin School building: Objected to the School Committee’s reported reluctance to relinquish the building, noting ongoing heating and electricity costs.

The Chair thanked the resident and noted the budget hearing Friday would include all department heads; she also suggested the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee be given feedback about extending meeting time.

A resident asked whether the reported $250,000 town contribution to the school budget was guaranteed or contingent on passage of a meals and hotel tax. The resident also commented critically on the termination of a staff member identified as Ann Haskell, stating personal familiarity with the employee and her attorney, and indicated intent to attend any resulting court proceedings.

During public comment:

• A resident stated that receiving zero general contractor bids for the transfer station project represents a failure of the board’s oversight and noted the town is paying approximately $400,000 per year on a bond for a facility not yet built.
• A resident named Elliot noted the public health nurses are conducting an April diaper drive accepting disposable and cloth diapers and wipes; participating health departments include Marblehead, Swampscott, Salem, Danvers, and Beverly.
• Elliot also suggested the board manage overflow lines at hazardous waste events by placing a sticker on the last car that will be admitted, to prevent residents from waiting unnecessarily.

The board discussed expanding substance abuse support options for Marblehead residents. Key topics included:

• Learn to Cope: Nearest in-person chapter meets in Peabody on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays; Zoom sessions draw 30–35 participants. Board members and a community member with lived experience expressed interest in bringing a chapter to Marblehead.
• Opioid abatement funds: Andrew noted funds are available for education, scholarships for treatment, and that Swampscott has issued a community survey the board plans to adapt for Marblehead.
• NAN Project: A local organization working in 75 Boston-area schools on suicide prevention; Marblehead has not yet partnered with it. Outreach to assistant superintendent Julia Ferrera and school counselor Gina Hart is underway.
• Red Watch Band program: Peer-to-peer program empowering youth to support one another at social events; has been used with Marblehead schools in prior years around prom season.
• Speaker series: Discussion of a community event featuring individuals with lived experience of addiction, potentially a panel format with mental health professionals present for support. Fall or early school year identified as a more realistic target than summer.
• Mental Health Task Force: Joanne reported the task force (co-chaired by Mark Labon) is exploring several speakers including Kevin Rosario (YouTube, lived experience) and Charlie Stein (strength-based speaking). Next task force meeting is May 15th.
• A $45,000 ARPA allocation to the Counseling Center was acknowledged; center president Ruth Ferguson confirmed Terry McDonough as the principal point of contact for substance use disorder programming.

The chair opened the April 9th meeting by summarizing steps taken after the prior meeting’s emotional public testimony on substance abuse. The board has been in contact with the Marblehead Counseling Center regarding new programs, and a report from the Student at Risk survey is expected from high school adjustment counselor Gina Hart and assistant superintendent Julia Ferrera at the June meeting.

No public comment was offered in person or online. The committee voted to adjourn.

The public budget hearing drew extensive testimony over approximately two hours. Key themes included:

Educators on working conditions:

• Multiple teachers and support staff described being hit, scratched, or threatened by students, inadequate therapeutic staffing, overwhelmed speech-language pathologists (down from 9.6 to 6.6 FTEs this year), and paraprofessionals earning as little as $11.93/hour.
• A 16-year therapeutic program teacher (Justin Beachwood, Glover School) described unsafe student-to-staff ratios and systematic staffing reductions over recent years.
• Three speech-language pathologists reported four open SLP positions for next year due to resignations and retirement.
• Teachers raised concerns about mold identified in classroom B213 at Marblehead High School, including spore types flagged as potentially hazardous, and questioned whether proper remediation was performed.

Residents and benchmarking:

• Jonathan Letterman (former 12-year School Committee member) argued Marblehead spends more per pupil than comparable districts while paying teachers less, and called for benchmarking against higher-performing districts.
• Rick Petski noted that only approximately 25% of Marblehead households have children in public schools, and that households led by someone over 55 now exceed 50% of the population — the voter base needed for any override.
• Steve Volpe (Village School teacher) presented 2023 Grade 10 MCAS data showing Marblehead ranked first among local comparable districts in both ELA and math, while ranking second-to-last in average teacher salary (2021 DESE data).

Override and funding mechanics discussion:

• School Committee members discussed that they can vote any budget they believe appropriate; town meeting ultimately decides funding.
• Member Allison Taylor stated unequivocal support for open bargaining with the MEA.
• Chair Fox clarified that campaign finance law prohibits using public funds to campaign for a ballot initiative.
• Member Brian Oda noted the current delta between level-funded and level-services budgets is approximately $2.5 million.
• Several speakers called for organizing a community-based override campaign outside of official channels.

A board member (identified as Tom) proposed that the Board of Health sponsor community events featuring residents sharing personal substance abuse experiences. The discussion drew emotional public testimony:

• Laney Goodman, a Marblehead resident and project director at Lynn Community Health Center, described her son’s addiction beginning before age 18 and her creation of a parent support group called FOCUS (Families of Children Using Substances). She offered to serve as a contact resource for parents.
• A second resident (Dave, Stonybrook Road) described his daughter’s heroin addiction from 1986–1996 and her 27 years in recovery; his other daughter is the Northeast regional director for Learn to Cope.
• A third resident, a retired Navy officer, described running a Navy drug-prevention education program in the early 1990s and cited a four-star admiral’s assessment that K–12 education is the greatest national security threat.

The board also noted that 25 opioid recovery “sandbox” boxes containing Narcan have been installed in town buildings, with installation in schools forthcoming.

The discussion included a tense exchange between board members over tone and process. A motion was proposed to formally commit the board to moving forward with resident-speaker events; it did not receive a clear second or recorded vote.

MEA representative Jonathan Hillard (26 Rough Road) read a formal statement on behalf of the union raising four specific concerns:

1. Glover colleagues were placed on paid administrative leave without just cause and were not allowed to ask or answer questions about the incident.
2. Staff were not allowed to review video of the incident until after they were placed on leave.
3. Only one camera angle out of multiple was used in the determination.
4. Staff had repeatedly requested a support plan for the student involved, but those requests were ignored by administration.

The MEA also called on the school committee to return to the town and advocate for full FY25 budget funding, noting a projected loss of approximately 15% of total staff over 12 months and a projected 13% increase in elementary enrollment over the next 10 years.

Following Hillard, approximately 20 educators from Glover, Village, and Brown schools—including Kristen Zaro, Hannah Partica, Diane Gora, Lauren Catalano, Linda Bruce, Laura West, Sarah Colleen, Isabelle Nee, Laura Clark, Dana Trudeau, Lindsay Bark, Eliza Denim, Emily Perez, Carrie Bergon, Megan Bruit, and Holly Landry—each stated their names and read identical statements of solidarity with the Glover colleagues.

The final portion of public comment included:

• Megan Sweeney raised the double standard between scrutiny of the school committee versus other town boards managing public funds, and asked how the community can ensure the select board treats school funding as a genuine priority.
• Kathy Hempel asked each committee member to self-grade A–F. Members gave themselves grades of B to B-minus, citing strong budget transparency, good labor relations, and work on superintendent hiring, while acknowledging the superintendent search started later than ideal.
• Tara Sage and Joelle Eeen expressed strong support for the committee, characterizing them as dealing with inherited multi-generational problems.
• Greg Tido (60-year resident, children and grandchildren through Marblehead schools) noted that voters elected the current majority with over 3,000 votes each and suggested critics allow the committee to govern until the next election.
• Nicole Cohen expressed confidence in the committee’s budget process and said she believed the community would support the committee if an override were sought.

The forum drew questions on several interconnected financial topics:

School property disposition: A resident asked why Coffin School has not been sold. Committee members explained that school building deeds are held by the town, not the school department; proceeds from any sale would flow to the town general fund and not directly to the school budget. The committee also cited uncertainty about future enrollment (a projection of approximately 100 additional students over 8–10 years) and the pending MBTA overlay zoning change (potentially allowing up to 900 new units) as reasons to retain the property.

Ground lease concept: A resident with 40 years of HUD experience described ground-lease financing as an alternative to outright sale, citing the Brick Bottom co-op in Boston as a model. Committee members noted that since deeds are in the town’s name, any such arrangement would be the select board’s authority; they referred the resident to Town Administrator Thatcher Keer.

Override and non-parent voters: A resident noted that approximately 75% of Marblehead households have no children in public schools and asked what arguments the committee would make to those voters if an override is sought. Committee members clarified that no override has been formally voted on or decided, though a placeholder has appeared on the warrant as standard practice since at least 2019. Members argued that strong schools protect property values for all homeowners regardless of whether they have children in the district.

One resident spoke during the public comment period on two topics:

1. Snow closure policy: The resident suggested the town reconsider how it decides to close offices during snowstorms, arguing decisions should wait until the morning of the storm and that the cost of closures is significant given budget constraints.

2. Eagle Scout recognition: The resident noted that the board previously invited Eagle Scouts to attend a meeting and present their projects, and suggested resuming that practice as a positive community gesture given the difficulty of achieving that rank.

The committee debated at length whether to hold the public forum as scheduled Thursday or wait for the League’s preferred late-March date with a trained moderator. Key concerns raised included:

• Whether the meeting would constitute public comment (where viewpoint-based restrictions are prohibited under case law) or a structured conversation
• Whether to include all five members or send fewer than a quorum to avoid deliberation issues
• How to handle questions on topics — particularly the superintendent separation — that the committee cannot legally discuss

Committee member Brian argued that saying publicly “we can’t answer that” is itself valuable transparency. Chair Sarah recommended holding Thursday’s meeting as an open conversation with the committee, then scheduling the more formalized league-moderated forum in late March as a follow-up.

The committee reached consensus to:

• Hold the forum Thursday at 7 PM at the high school in hybrid format
• Set a one-minute time limit per question (rather than the league’s suggested 30 seconds or the standard 3-minute public comment limit)
• Have the superintendent step back from that portion so the committee answers directly
• Ask Mimi to provide available dates for the March league-moderated event

Counsel Liz noted that without a vetting moderator, the session is functionally public comment and the committee cannot prevent speakers from raising any topic, only choose not to respond to out-of-scope questions.

The League of Women Voters representative (identified as Mimi) outlined what the league could offer: a structured forum format with written and oral questions, a trained out-of-town moderator, and strict protocols against personal attacks. She noted their preferred moderator — the co-president of the state league — was unavailable before the March 5 elections. The league recommended postponing the forum to around March 28 to allow adequate public preparation time, citing the upcoming Farewell Party for a school official and the fact that many residents had been away during vacation week.

Nancy Powell, representing the League of Women Voters of Marblehead, proposed the League host a nonpartisan public forum with the school committee moderated by a third party, suggesting Thursday March 14 as a possible date.

Amy Drinker entered into the public record a letter signed by 142 residents and an online petition with over 760 signers, both expressing concerns about school committee decisions since the June 2023 election.

A third resident expressed hope for improved committee collaboration and welcomed what appeared to be a new committee member.

The chair opened public comment. No members of the public were present at the microphone and no hands were raised on Zoom.

Mary McCarrison addressed the committee in person, noting that the Director of Finance position had been posted but no superintendent search posting was visible. She urged the committee to include METCO and CPAC representatives on any search committee, to engage more broadly with community critics, and to prioritize the budget given the upcoming end of the current superintendent’s tenure.

Following the State of the Town, the Board took extensive public comment. Themes recorded in the minutes:

Tax and assessment process

• Questions on property taxes and explanations of assessments
• Suggestion that the town website include a link that fully explains the tax assessment process
• “No standards or guidance put forth by Assessors. Why isn’t the Town Administrator/Select Board holding Assessors accountable?”
• Concern that a Board of Assessors representative was not invited to the meeting to answer questions
• Question on tax growth and accountability to the people of the town

Technology

• ClearGov and migration to Office 365 are a big plus; suggestion to add Microsoft Teams suite

Mission and growth

• Comment on the town’s mission statement and how level of services is measured
• Question on how to attract and maintain new growth through commercial development

Department-head accessibility

• “Town department heads should not work remotely and should live in Marblehead”
• “Cannot find anyone at Mary Alley to answer his questions because they are not there”
• The public should be able to make appointments

Decentralization

• “We have a decentralized form of government locally, which has amazing positives, and occasionally some negatives. It is the role of the Board of Assessors to be answering these questions and handling these issues.”
• Comment also on base levy, new growth, revenue projections, and free cash

The override

• “Impressed with the presentation and its transparency. Disappointed with the failed override but appreciated the Board’s desire to be creative in finding other revenue sources for the town.”

Schools

• “Are expense projections based on current services?”
• “If the town is not asking for an override, what about the schools?”
• “The children of Marblehead deserve exemplary education and the current budget does not allow that. Positions were left unfilled at the schools because they could not attract candidates. Town will lose families coming into town if not in good financial health. Town and Schools should work together.”

“What we invest in as a town shows what we all value.”

The Chair thanked everyone for the comments and discussion. No votes taken on public-comment items.

Adjournment

Motion made and seconded to adjourn at 8:20 PM. All in favor.

Mary McCarrison (46 Pinecliff Drive) commended high school students for organizing listening sessions on inclusion, warned that the town lacks support for an override given rising taxes, suggested returning the Coffin School property to generate revenue for special education and teacher salaries, and urged the committee to listen to students on flag policies. She stated she does not believe an override will pass.

Nyla Dubois (37 Green Street) said she is a Black woman raising three daughters and expressed concern about what she described as critical social justice framing in schools. She argued that Black Lives Matter does not represent all Black people, that the connection between displaying certain flags and student success lacks evidentiary support, and that viewpoint diversity and free dialogue are more important than symbolic gestures. She said she found the draft flag policy to be relatively fair, and announced plans for a community publication called “Marblehead Free Thought.”

Resident Albert Jordan spoke during public comment on two topics:

Police vehicle color: Jordan argued that all-black police cruisers are less visible than black-and-white schemes used by Salem, Danvers, and Swampscott. He suggested the Select Board invite the police chief to discuss the issue before signing future lease agreements, citing officer safety and traffic deterrence as rationale.

Parking enforcement: Jordan stated he had observed vehicles with out-of-state plates parked on Turner Road for approximately six months without being ticketed or towed, despite out-of-state plates being required to convert to Massachusetts plates within 30 days. He also noted that no snow emergency was declared during the recent snowstorm, which the Town Administrator confirmed was a deliberate decision based on forecast conditions (no hard freeze following the storm).

Two residents commented during the public comment period:

1. A resident with apparent construction/procurement expertise questioned whether the bid falls under M.G.L. Chapter 30 §39 or §149, raised the filed sub-bid requirement for electrical and roofing alternates, and sought clarification on where the non-revolving-fund portion of project money is held. The director clarified that $600,000 comes from the waste revolving account and the remainder from settlement recovery funds in the original project article account.

2. A second resident (identified as Ms. Devin) noted that approximately 50 years ago Marblehead was among the first communities to practice source-separated recycling, requiring separate containers for different glass colors, cans, and paper — drawing a parallel to current discussions about improving recycling sorting.

Tom Zaro (via Zoom) added that the Wellesley transfer station effectively serves a population comparable in size to Marblehead’s active users, and called the sorting and baling operation impressive.

Mary McKay of 46 Pinecliff Drive addressed the committee, stating her phone had been active with community members asking her to relay a message asking an unnamed individual to resign, citing seven months of what she described as chaos for the community, students, and teachers.

A large group of educators, tutors, and parents addressed the committee. Key themes across statements included:

• Unsafe working conditions: Teachers described being directed to ignore dysregulated students, left without paraprofessional support, and told to “just teach” while students exhibited violent or disruptive behavior.
• MEA no-confidence vote: Speakers repeatedly referenced the Marblehead Education Association’s vote of no confidence (approximately 97% in favor) in Student Services Director Paula Donnelly and Assistant Director Emily Dean, and demanded their immediate removal.
• Specific allegations: Speakers alleged Donnelly and Dean overrode professional staff judgment during restraint incidents, directed team members not to recommend services in IEP meetings, cut BCBA consulting supports, failed to fill paraprofessional vacancies (leaving IEP-mandated positions empty for two months), and retaliated against staff who raised concerns.
• Staffing deterioration: Multiple speakers noted the district had gone from multiple board-certified behavior analysts (BCBAs) to one BCBA servicing the entire district.
• Fear of retaliation: A high school math teacher reading on behalf of colleagues stated that educators at Marblehead High School were afraid to attend for fear of retaliation.
• Parent voices: A Glover School PTO vice president and several parents expressed concern about ongoing safety and urged the committee to act on teacher recommendations.

The chair paused public comment at the 15-minute policy mark, proceeded briefly through the agenda, then reopened comment before the meeting continued. A brief recess was called at approximately 7:41 PM after a public comment became disruptive.

Two residents spoke during public comment.

Jim (phonetic, 2 Mom Road): Expressed support for the charter discussion. Noted the League of Women Voters has done approximately a year of research. Cautioned against changing the form of government without broad public support, citing a failed attempt in another community to convert to a mayor-council form. Mentioned the Board of Health may bring a town meeting article to increase its board size to five as an example of the type of governance question a charter committee might address.

Albert Jordan, 64 Roosevelt Avenue: Raised several public safety concerns:

1. A double telephone pole at Smith Street and Baldwin Road near the Brown School crosswalk has existed for approximately three to four years; it shaves passing trucks, blocks a traffic light, and creates a sight-line hazard for pedestrians at the school crosswalk, particularly given a recent area pedestrian fatality.
2. Verizon plans to replace approximately 400 utility poles in Marblehead in a year; Jordan questioned oversight of that project given past experience with double poles left standing for months on Village Street.
3. A gas company contractor on Turner Road has left equipment (backhoe, compressor, piles of sand) on a road corner for months, creating a hazard, and a neighbor parks a large truck alongside it at night.

Ruth Ferguson (board president, via Zoom) and Ron (vice president) presented the Counseling Center’s annual update. The center currently serves approximately 500 clients providing over 6,000 hours of therapy, but carries a wait list of 321 individuals, 124 of whom (39%) are Marblehead residents. The wait list includes requests dating back to 2022.

Board members noted the town’s annual appropriation was reduced from $120,000 to $60,000 approximately a decade ago and has not been restored. Board members discussed whether opioid settlement funds received by the town might be applied to supplement the appropriation, and whether a targeted Prop 2½ override article for mental health funding could be placed on a town meeting warrant (the Center’s leadership indicated it would be inappropriate for them to advocate for such an article but acknowledged the Board of Health could do so).

The center reported a $120,000 three-year grant from the Cummings Foundation, a $25,000 state budget appropriation secured through Rep. Armini, and strong fundraising through its golf event and the Gary Five event. A first-floor renovation of the town-owned Hobbs Building is planned to go out to bid January 2, estimated at $40,000–$50,000 using ARPA funds, to consolidate administrative space and create a dedicated group therapy room once a surplus stove is removed.

Melanie Andrews (13 Tucker Street) described her experience with an eighth-grade assignment using the American Library Association’s challenged-book list. She read explicit passages from the selected book and argued the assignment lacked adequate parental notice, appropriate vetting, and accommodation for students on IEPs. She requested the committee respond with improved procedures.

Mary McCarton (46 Pine Cliff Drive) expressed frustration with what she characterized as a lack of transparency, referencing a workshop meeting she attended and a request by a committee member for future workshops to be held in closed session. She stated that senior citizens in her network were reluctant to support an override given recent events.

Kristen Dube Horton (23 Orange Street), on behalf of the Marblehead Racial Justice Task Force, read a letter requesting the committee create a policy affirming symbols of acceptance including the Black Lives Matter flag and Pride flag. The letter cited research linking such symbols to student success and warned that bans have historically increased controversy and invited litigation.

Virginia O’Brien (2 Garden Road) commented via Zoom, supporting the idea of private workshop sessions for the committee, framing it as a matter of psychological safety rather than a lack of transparency.

The chair reminded attendees of the public comment policy: three minutes per speaker, 15-minute total maximum, with overflow at end of meeting.

First speaker (in person, Marblehead resident): The speaker described making calls to people in other cities, towns, law enforcement, and legal contacts about the flag removal incident. The speaker noted that Police Chief Dennis King had reportedly not been consulted. The speaker raised questions about whether the parent who removed the flag could face vandalism charges, whether there had been any consequences, and whether a letter of apology had been issued. The speaker referenced reviewing the campaign platforms of sitting committee members, all of whom had cited transparency and accountability as priorities.

Second speaker (in person, Boston resident): Identified as a parent of a young Black boy attending Marblehead schools. The speaker described her son traveling from Boston to Marblehead starting at 5 a.m., and said he had previously been called racial slurs by a staff member and bullied by cafeteria staff on multiple occasions. The speaker said that for her son, seeing the flag in the classroom signaled that someone cared, and its removal — followed by no visible consequence — was demoralizing. She asked the committee to consider reinstating the flag and to show compassion.

Third speaker (online, Nyla Dub, 37 Green Street, Marblehead): Expressed empathy with the previous speaker’s experience and said she believed the flag’s removal felt like a gesture of racism to some students. She raised a broader argument about whether schools should serve as arbiters of which symbols create feelings of safety, proposed either no flags or a consistent all-flags policy, and said she planned to submit written information to the committee.

Jordan Roosevelt raised two issues:

1. A dumpster permitted by the Police Chief in front of a restaurant on Pleasant Street has been in place for months and, along with a second dumpster on Washington Street, poses a safety hazard. The Town Administrator noted the Pleasant Street dumpster permit expires Friday and outdoor dining permits expire November 30.
2. Outdoor dining installations at Five Corners were described as blocking sidewalks for pedestrians and obstructing delivery truck access. Roosevelt suggested the program, which originated during COVID, be reconsidered.

Roosevelt also asked the board to send condolences to the family of recently deceased Peter Preble, a longtime police officer and crossing guard.

A second resident detailed a lengthy dispute over public records (FOIA) fees, alleging that the town’s website states fees will be estimated and excess amounts refunded, but in practice no refund was made after he paid $750 for a request that he later determined took the town approximately nine hours of work ($175). He said he pursued the matter in Small Claims Court (dismissed for lack of jurisdiction), that the town incurred approximately $3,000 in legal fees defending against his $575 refund claim, and that the Secretary of State’s office was told the town does not track hours on records requests. He called for the town to honor its stated refund policy, fix the public records process, and seek new outside legal counsel.

Four residents addressed the board:

Steve Elliot, Turner Road: Praised Dr. Mauro’s presentation and expressed appreciation for a new transfer station employee. Asked about budget capacity to connect the new compactor and whether commercial dumping data could be placed on the agenda. Noted that out-of-town users benefit from Marblehead’s facilities without contributing tax dollars.

Alan Waller, 159 [street not stated]: Stated that town credibility is at a low point ahead of an anticipated operational override vote. Argued that without a transparent accounting of past transfer station expenditures, an override will not pass. Called on the board to request a public letter from the town administrator explaining what went wrong with prior spending.

Tom Day, Stony Brook Road: Asked for a clearer timeline on DEP approval and the bidding process for the transfer station construction, noting repeated deferrals at prior meetings.

Heather [last name not stated], Boat Road: Described witnessing multiple incidents near the rail trail involving youth in distress, expressed concern about lack of police follow-through on assault complaints, and raised issues with road conditions affecting elderly and mobility-impaired residents. Also mentioned an unresolved sinkhole near the baseball field.

MEA Co-presidents Jonathan Hillard (26 Ralph Road) and Sally Shery (80 Garfield Street) delivered a prepared statement on behalf of district educators. They reported that from July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023 there were 28 FOIA requests, and from July 1, 2023 onward the district had received 45 requests or amended requests—approximately a 65% increase in four months over the entire prior school year. Legal fees related to FOIA requests since July 1, 2023 were estimated at $5,640, with staff time costs estimated at an additional $4,000. The union noted that a press outlet had subsequently filed a sweeping request for all complaints against anyone in the school community since July 1, 2023, and that Marblehead Public Schools had calculated approximately 460,000 incoming emails in that period. The MEA called on the committee and administration to enforce existing handbook policies and to stop what they characterized as misuse of anti-harassment complaint mechanisms.

A second educator speaker, identifying herself as having worked in Marblehead since 1997, echoed concerns about community trust and the climate around schools, welcoming back incoming Superintendent Dr. Theresa McGinnis.

Chair Fox displayed the FOIA request document publicly and explained that the committee’s flag-policy process was triggered by a Supreme Court case (Shurtleff v. City of Boston) establishing that without a governing policy, a public entity must permit all flags. She clarified the intent was legal compliance, not removal of existing flags.

Resident Mary McCarrison (46 Pinecliff Drive) reported calling 21 communities about flag policies and urged the committee to allow diversity flags to remain, citing the town’s demographic makeup. Four Marblehead High School students identifying as members of Team Harmony—Nina Johnson, Marin Potter, Paige Fletcher, and Callie Curtis—read a joint statement urging that the Pride, Juneteenth, and BLM flags currently in the cafeteria remain and that students be formally included in any policy process. Two additional speakers, Nikia Bell (2 Green Hayes Street) and a parent from Dorchester identifying her son as attending a Marblehead school, spoke about incidents of disrespect toward students of color and their concerns about the flag situation and school safety.

Public comment opened at the start of the meeting. Five residents spoke:

• Mim (Wallingford Road) — Israeli-American, member of the Human Rights Campaign Parents Council, ADL North Shore Advisory Group, and Keshet. Urged the board to defend schools’ ability to display inclusion flags (BLM, Pride) on a case-by-case basis administered by principals.
• Kazzy (resident) — Reflected on the tension between unity and individual expression. Suggested town/state/country flags should be primary but case-by-case allowances for others; raised definitional questions (flag pole vs. wall vs. sticker).
• Cindy (Marblehead Racial Justice Team) — Expressed disappointment when the BLM banner was temporarily removed. Argued that removing BLM signage sends an exclusionary message to students and families of color. Aligned with Mim’s position.
• Renee Sidman — Parent, former foster parent of a Black child in Marblehead schools, Jewish community leader. Strongly supported keeping the BLM flag; said the flag is a visual signal of welcome and that all local rabbis supported its display at the high school.
• Charman (Reed Street) — Person of color; said she finds the BLM flag offensive and had previously raised flag-display concerns with the former superintendent. Advocated for taking all non-governmental flags down until a policy is in place, then starting fresh with only the American and state flags.
• Nyla (resident) — Arrived late; said she believes all flags should come down and schools should be a space free of group signaling. Asked whether anyone had measured outcomes (counseling rates, etc.) since the BLM flag went up.

A board member (identified as Michelle) clarified mid-comment that the policy discussion was not about taking the BLM flag down; the flag had been removed earlier by an unauthorized individual but was restored. The subcommittee confirmed no flags currently displayed at the start of the school year have been changed.

Chair Sarah Fox opened the meeting with a personal statement supporting Superintendent Cresta’s communication to the community following the Hamas attack on Israel, noting the committee had not met since the conflict began and therefore could not act as a collective body. She also addressed what she characterized as the weaponization of the bullying complaint process.

Public comment drew several residents, including Israeli and Jewish community members who expressed fear, grief, and gratitude for Cresta’s statement. Speakers described personal connections to victims in Israel, concerns about antisemitism experienced locally, and relief that the school district issued a public statement of support. One speaker noted a petition in support of Cresta’s message had gathered approximately 1,296 signatures.

After a brief recess, the committee took up the formal complaint filed by a community member on October 12. Cresta waived her right to executive session and read a statement affirming her original communication. The committee then voted 5-0 to find no wrongdoing.

Dan Albert addressed the board, noting the Coffin School has sat vacant since the Brown School opened and has required fire department responses 20–30 times. He raised concerns about asbestos remediation costs if demolished, the loss of fire sprinkler protection after water and gas shutoffs, and ongoing maintenance expenses. He stated he would not support an override while the Coffin School situation remains unresolved, and suggested the community could bring a citizens’ petition to Town Meeting if the Select Board does not act.

The meeting opened with two statements responding to the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on Israel. The chair noted an evening event at Shaaret Haiyam and a combined ADL/Marblehead Ministerial Association community gathering planned for Sunday, October 15 at 4:30 PM. A board member read a personal statement drawing on his experience as a Marine officer off Lebanon in 1985, expressing solidarity with both Jewish and Muslim residents of Marblehead.

Larry McCarrison (46 Drive) addressed the committee during public comment. He noted that an ADA complaint had been filed by Mary McCarrison due to the inability of audience members to hear board members during meetings. He stated he had raised the issue repeatedly and had also contacted the state regarding a potential open meeting law violation.

The chair had previously noted that the complaint was received that day and that the feedback from an amplifier conflicts with the Poly system used for hybrid Zoom meetings, potentially requiring the board to choose between in-person-only or Zoom-only formats while a technical solution is sought.

Public comment included the following speakers:

• Steve Elliott: Longtime transfer station user questioned whether out-of-town commercial vehicles are using the facility without restriction, suggested Marblehead residents and contractors should receive preference, and asked how the 20% C&D threshold is tracked in practice.
• Laney (Helene) Goodman: Expressed support for fentanyl strips and Narcan but advocated for placement at more visible locations (fire station, police station, high school). Expressed concern about visible disagreement among board members.
• Alan Waller: Suggested the board seek restitution from the owner’s representative (Tellerman Costa) for the transfer station project overrun, and recommended proactive community engagement before asking for more funds at Town Meeting.
• Resident (name unclear): Compared the Wellesley and Marblehead transfer stations, noted the Marblehead employee trailer is overdue for replacement, and clarified that board members may attend events together under open meeting law as long as board business is not discussed.
• Bob Roberta (construction professional, attending in person): Raised concerns about construction project priorities and scheduling, suggested the board push the architect harder for a schedule, noted the importance of scrutinizing requisitions, and referenced a past library project where the architect and general contractor were found to be colluding and the town paid costs that were the GC’s contractual responsibility.
• Jim (remote, Sentry Mound Road): Supported the five-member board expansion but suggested having the Select Board sponsor the Town Meeting article to avoid the appearance of self-interest.
• Megan Sweeney (Beacon Street, Power Up): Announced a domestic violence stakeholder gathering on October 23rd, 6–8 PM at Star of the Sea Community Center, co-hosted with HAWC, YWCA North Shore Rape Crisis Center, Body Science, Detective Tom McMahon, and School Committee Chair Sarah Fox.
• Terrace (32 Rowland Street, remote): Requested more frequent board meetings to shorten individual sessions, earlier start times (6:30–7 PM suggested), and more accessible placement of Narcan and fentanyl test strips.

The state representative covered three areas at the board’s invitation:

Solid Waste / Bottle Bill The legislature’s Environment and Natural Resources Committee has heard testimony on producer responsibility and recycling. Multiple bottle bill versions are pending; the representative co-sponsors a bill by Public Health Chair Marjorie Decker (Bill 2609) that would cover any drinkable liquid intended for human consumption (excluding baby formula), raise the deposit from 5 cents to 10 cents with inflation adjustments, and expand container size limits. The representative stated that nip bottles would likely be included in any final bill. Producer responsibility legislation showing consensus around mattresses and cardboard; paint was also discussed. Governor Healy signed an executive order banning single-use plastic bottle purchases by executive agencies — first in the nation; the board raised a question about emergency-response exemptions, which the representative agreed to research.

Mental Health The representative highlighted the FY24 state budget investments: $120 million for children’s mental health services, $25 million for emergency department diversion for youth, $6 million for social-emotional learning grants, $3 million for student telehealth access, and $598 million for the Department of Mental Health Adult Services. A $25,000 earmark was secured for the Marblehead Counseling Center. The legislature overrode the governor’s veto of a $1.4 million teen texting crisis program (K-SAM/Samaritans). The representative is also pursuing placing a suicide hotline number on student ID cards.

Substance Use Disorder Overdose deaths were at a record high in 2022. The governor and lieutenant governor announced a partnership with Boston Medical Center to expand the Massachusetts Overdose Prevention helpline using a ‘spotting model.’ The representative noted that a Narcan training was held for House and Senate members and now carries Narcan personally.

Resident Albert Jordan of Roosevelt Avenue spoke during public comment to request that the board send a letter of condolences to the family of a former selectman identified as Alexander, who served in the 1970s and later resided in Swampscott. The board unanimously approved the motion to send a letter of condolences.

A resident asked whether CPAC and METCO members had been specifically considered for the interim superintendent search committee, and sought clarification on a reported statement that the chair was ‘reserved’ about MCAS results. The chair clarified she had not said she was reserved but was waiting for a formal presentation from Assistant Superintendent Julia Ferrara. A committee member also noted for the record that the 2019 Interim Superintendent Search Committee did not include a CPAC or METCO representative.

No members of the public signed up for public comment. Student representative KA Piper provided an update covering freshman elections scheduled for October 4th, the Spanish class PUL project, homecoming on October 14th, college visits, picture day on October 3rd, an upcoming Club Fair, and a League of Women Voters voter registration table that saw significant student activity. Athletics updates included an upcoming football game with a camouflage-themed student section.

Resident (Leelan, Westport Lane / Marblehead Current) asked:

• Whether Narcan and fentanyl test strips are free (confirmed: yes)
• Whether overdose statistics are available (Andrew said he can obtain them from the police chief)
• Whether COVID cases are increasing — Andrew noted wastewater data suggests levels comparable to 2020 in the region; rapid tests available free through September 30; new booster guidance deferred to primary care physicians and forthcoming CDC/state guidance.

Resident (Barbara/Bob) raised concerns about construction cost overruns on town projects, referencing the landfill closure project and questioning contingency planning. Andrew explained that underground construction involves significant unknowns and that the 17-acre landfill contained more waste material than estimated. He noted that going forward, the transfer station project has an owner’s project manager (Jerry Smith) and architect oversight. The resident offered informal assistance with construction monitoring.

Two residents spoke during public comment:

Amy Danforth (Manchin Road) — A 30-year resident and frequent rail trail user, she expressed support for redirecting ARPA funds to trail improvements. She noted the Seaview-to-West Shore segment serves four public schools, two temples, the community center, post office, and library. She raised concern that the trail master plan has seen limited implementation since 2019 and asked what commitment exists once current funds are exhausted. She also expressed interest in forming a Friends of the Rail Trail group.

Dan Albert (58 Leicester Road, via Zoom) — Commented on the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee, cautioning that it should not mirror a prior traffic committee. He stated the committee’s purpose is to implement the town’s Complete Streets policy per Article 49 from town meeting, and indicated he would return to town meeting to add more prescriptive language if the committee’s work diverges from that intent.

An online participant (named Kazi or similar, audio unclear) said she struggled with whether to raise the issue but felt compelled to after reading a local news publication that included emails from the school department containing student names, personal email addresses, and school placements. She has children with ADHD and a son with autism, and said private communications she sent to the school should be redacted before public release. She asked the committee to implement processes ensuring thorough redaction — multiple reviewers — before any Massachusetts Public Records Law response.

Dan Albert (50 Lester Road) outlined the history: in 2009 voters approved the new Glover School; a 2011 peer review by Faye Spofford & Thorndike recommended six-foot bike-friendly shoulders; and the planning board’s February 2012 site-plan approval required re-striping Maple Street between Lafayette and Humphrey Streets to provide two such shoulders. Albert said he learned through a public-records request in June that the shoulders had never been created, contacted town officials, received no substantive reply through August, and was ultimately told by Planning Board Chair Bob Schaffner that enforcement rested with the DPW. Albert asked the school committee to take forceful action rather than merely send emails.

Alex Chrisack (1 Tedesco Street) described living at the six-way intersection where students cross to Glover School. She recounted multiple near-misses — including a traumatic incident where a driver braked hard and honked when her four-year-old chased a ball into the street — and asked the committee to act.

Alex Shoob (2 Richard Road) echoed Albert’s request and noted that traffic studies have already been done, so a new study is not necessary; he asked the committee to ensure the shoulders are installed as soon as possible.

A board member responded that road markings are outside the school committee’s governing authority but said the committee would reach out to Chief King for a traffic study and would ask Superintendent Michelle Cresta to place the issue on the safety committee’s agenda.

Chris Pool asked two questions during public comment:

1. Cost of permanent search: The chair explained that when the district conducted its last permanent search, a request for proposals was issued and bids varied widely; some were in the single-digit thousands. No cost estimate is available until an RFP goes out. If an interim becomes the permanent superintendent, there may be no search cost at all.

2. Meeting scheduling: Pool noted that 9:30 a.m. and noon Friday meetings are not conducive to public attendance. The chair explained that during the regular school year the committee holds standing meetings on the first and third Thursday of each month; the unusual summer/early-fall schedule was driven by the urgency of the superintendent situation and by the availability of outside professionals (attorneys, NESDEC, etc.) The availability of Zoom recordings was noted as a way for the public to stay informed.

Dan Albert, 58 Lister Road noted that bicycle shoulder accommodations were expected to be installed in front of Glover School before the school year, a requirement from a 2012 planning board approval. He also credited an Open Meeting Law complaint he filed for prompting the town website adoption vote, raised concerns about the governance of the Complete Streets Committee, and urged the board to develop a comprehensive transportation and mobility plan. He noted the rail trail ($1.43 million ARPA investment) currently lacks a formal maintenance plan and is being mowed with a borrowed mower.

Albert Jordan, Roosevelt Avenue reported a safety hazard from a dumpster placed in front of the Rip Tide restaurant near a busy intersection, blocking sightlines to the crosswalk. He suggested the town consider a daily fee for on-street dumpsters and pods to encourage timely removal. He also expressed frustration about recent events at the school department, praised the Select Board for working collaboratively on the volunteer appointment policy, and urged civility among town boards.

The committee voted unanimously to waive the 15-minute public comment limit given the volume of community interest. Speakers addressed the departure of Superintendent Dr. John Bucky, with many questioning the transparency of the process, the financial cost to the district, and compliance with open meeting law.

Key themes from public comment included:

• Multiple speakers, including former committee member Sarah Gold and municipal attorney Nina Pickering-Cook, argued that any final vote on the superintendent’s contract should have been taken in open session prior to signing.
• Pickering-Cook (town counsel for Acton, Dover, and Bedford) stated that the ratification vote held at this meeting did not resolve the open meeting law complaints if the agreement had already been signed and legally binding.
• Some speakers called for committee members to resign; others, including John Dano and Frank Kaner, defended the committee’s use of executive session and criticized what they characterized as hostile rhetoric.
• Jonathan Heller, speaking as a parent and teacher (and noting he was not representing the Marblehead Education Association), expressed concern about leadership instability and its cumulative impact on teachers who have experienced frequent curriculum and program changes.
• Speakers also raised concerns about antisemitism and other forms of discrimination occurring within school buildings, calling on the committee to speak out when such incidents occur.
• One speaker raised the quality and nutritional value of school lunches under the new universal free lunch program.
• A speaker raised concerns about the recess structure and the wellness committee’s role in that discussion.

Resident 1 asked about textile recycling for items too worn to donate. The director explained that CMRK operates a bin at the transfer station and pays at least 5 cents per pound; a QR code on the bin allows scheduling home pickups at no cost.

Steve Elliott (Turner Road) commended transfer station employees and agreed residents treat them poorly. He noted the transfer station is an exceptional resource compared to neighboring communities. He raised concerns about out-of-town contractors using the facility, the 20% C&D trailer limit, and the town website not reflecting the timely reopening of Grace Oliver’s Beach (the state site also lagged). He expressed support for the swap shed rebuild.

Tom Day (Stony Brook Road) asked about next steps after planning board approval. The director said MassDEP permits are submitted with no anticipated rejection; after planning board approval, architects will finalize bid documents with a target of September–October bidding and pre-winter construction start.

Online commenter (Sean) asked how to obtain a copy of an email referenced during the board dispute at the start of the meeting. He was directed to file a Freedom of Information request with the Town Administrator at Abbott Hall; turnaround is 10 days.

Two residents addressed the Policy Subcommittee during public comment on the topic of recess:

• Carla Strobel, parent of three Marblehead students, advocated for reinstating two recesses for K–3 students and asked the committee to clarify why the schedule had originally been changed.
• Naomi, a BU College of Education professor and parent of an incoming first grader, described her son’s difficulties coping with limited physical movement during the school day, noting that his morning snack/recess period often yielded only 5–10 minutes of actual outdoor time due to logistics. She expressed concern that the situation could worsen in first grade.

Elaine Arruda of Washington Street addressed the board to express opposition to the Pride flag painted on the sidewalk at the information booth on Pleasant Street. She stated she was not alone in her objection and posed two questions to the board: (1) how a resident could request removal of the painting, and (2) what process would be needed to establish an ordinance limiting flags displayed on municipal property to the American flag, the state flag, and the town flag. The board chair acknowledged receipt of her prior letter and noted the board would respond by email.

Dan Albert (58 Lester Road) asked for permission in principle to restore the Frederick W. Bailey memorial sign at Bailey Square (intersection of Maple, Esco, Humphrey, Pleasant, and Glendale). He recounted the 1937 history of the sign honoring a Marblehead police officer popular with schoolchildren, a 1993 petition to restore it, and current pedestrian safety concerns at the intersection including blocked sidewalks, long light cycles, and routine red-light running.

Albert Jordan (Roosevelt Avenue) urged the board to complete its new policy before voting on any reappointments, expressing frustration with what he described as years of inaction on process reforms and lack of transparency on committee vacancies.

William Anderson (Elm Street) raised questions about the board’s prior approval of a Pride-themed art installation at the town information kiosk. The chair explained the project was funded by a state cultural council grant and directed him to the recorded meeting for full context.

Jack (last name not captured) encouraged caution in the reappointment review, noting that Marblehead has historically struggled to fill committee vacancies and that long-tenured volunteers provide institutional continuity. He also clarified that Article 54 at town meeting was an advisory vote, not a binding bylaw.

Terry Toro of 113 Jersey Street thanked the board for voting to pursue replacing the employee trailer at the transfer station, noting it is seven years old and that another winter in it could present safety concerns for employees.

Chair Fox opened the meeting at 5:04 PM, with two notes before public comment:

Pre-comment chair statement

Fox spoke about public comment from the previous meeting — a parent had reached out with concerns about the importance of keeping the names of families and students who file complaints confidential, so there would be no fear of retaliation.

Public comment

MEA Co-Presidents Jonathan Heller and Sally Shevory attended in person to read a prepared statement on:

• Their disappointment with the failed override vote
• Support for working to pass a budget that “enhances the quality of public education in Marblehead” and supports the future of the community

During public comment, a resident (identified by ASR as addressing ‘Mr. Odin/Otto’) congratulated newly elected school committee members, praised outgoing member Sarah Golds’s leadership during difficult years including superintendent transitions, and asked whether the newly elected member would drop a wrongful-dismissal complaint against the district. The chair intervened, noting the comment was out of order. The resident also urged the committee to fulfill campaign promises around transparency.

Dan Albert, identified as the MBTA Advisory Board designee, addressed the board citing June 9 Complete Streets Committee meeting minutes obtained through an open meeting law complaint. He argued the town currently has overlapping committees — Complete Streets Committee, Traffic Committee, Rail Trail Committee, Safe Routes to Schools, and a prospective Vision Zero Committee — that should be consolidated into the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee created by town meeting Article 49 on May 1.

Albert noted the Metropolitan Area Planning Council is standing up a Vision Zero project worth $2.7 million, and that accessing those funds would require a functioning Vision Zero committee. He stated the Town Administrator has expressed intent to maintain both the old Complete Streets Committee and the new Traffic Safety Advisory Committee simultaneously, which Albert views as problematic. He said he has a meeting scheduled with the police chief to discuss the matter.

John Dobb from the Harbors and Waters Board asked for clarification on whether holdover board members can be sworn in by the town clerk for a July 10 meeting; the town administrator confirmed holdover members continue serving without a new swearing-in.

Jim Sissino noted that holdover appointments are common in other communities and are not unusual.

Jessica Benedetto (Bradley Road) raised a long-standing concern about the lack of safe transportation for students living two or more miles from school, a service she said most surrounding towns provide. She stated the superintendent had described busing for distant students as “a luxury and simply not a budgetary priority” in an email, and noted the district had found funds for a communications consultant. She asked how much a second afternoon bus route for grades 6–12 would cost, given an existing elementary bus she observed sitting unused at the Vets by 3 p.m.

Marblehead CPAC co-chair reported 52 unsung-hero nominations received across all five public schools, the charter school, and community organizations. Named nominees included staff from Glover, Brown, Village, Vets, and the High School, as well as central administrator Dr. Paula Donnelly, Eric Roberts at the charter school, cub scout leader Christy Hebert, Kevin Evans from Island Roots Camp, and minister Lindsay Papperson at Old North Church.

Scott Solberg praised outgoing high school administrator Dan Bauer and expressed support for superintendent stability, noting improved transparency between the district and the Finance Committee over the past two years.

Cam Staples (via Zoom, audio difficulties) expressed concern about a “proficient” rating in the superintendent’s review and emphasized the importance of leadership continuity for a high-performing district.

Catherine Martin (29 West Shore Drive) thanked retiring educators including Tammy Nolte and Elizabeth Fogerty, and noted that school committee meeting agendas have always been publicly posted as required by state law.

Dan Albert, 58 Lester Road, the town’s designee to the MBTA Advisory Board, reported three developments:

1. Better Bus Project: The route through Vinnin Square will be eliminated and the last quarter-mile of Route 442 will be truncated to Mulford Street. The change will provide 30-minute headways through most of the day and 45-minute headways from approximately 10 PM to 1 AM. Implementation is delayed due to bus driver shortages.

2. Bus-Dedicated Lane: Representative Armini is interested in a dedicated bus lane on the Lynn-way to significantly reduce travel times.

3. Commuter Rail Electrification: The Newburyport/Rockport Line is the first line scheduled for electrification. Senator Creighton and Representative Armini have sponsored bills requiring electrification by December 31, 2024. Albert suggested the board consider submitting letters of support when hearings occur.

The chair opened the public comment period. No members of the public appeared either in the room or via Zoom.

The chair opened public comment. No members of the public raised their hands or came forward to speak, and the committee moved directly to the superintendent’s report.

Richard Smith asked about the process for implementing the Net Zero Roadmap’s proposed energy efficiency licensing for apartments, including whether it would be voluntary or mandatory and what fees might apply. Town Administrator Thatcher explained that the incoming sustainability coordinator would help vet and advance individual recommendations.

Sarah Fox (46 Speed Street) asked where the ARPA ranking spreadsheet is publicly posted and urged the board to prioritize learning-loss funding using updated Treasury guidance.

Jen Schaffner (20 Casino Road) questioned the percentage of ARPA funds allocated to the school department, asked whether ARPA funds were included in certified free cash (Finance Director Alicia confirmed they are held in a separate federal fund, not the general fund), and inquired about a pending $50,000 housing planning allocation on the list.

The chair opened public comment with a four-minute time limit per speaker. No members of the public came forward. The board voted unanimously to adjourn. Next meeting is June 9, 2023.

The board opened the public comment period. No one in the room or on Zoom submitted a comment, and the period was closed without any speakers.

The chair opened the floor for public comment. No individuals were present in the room or online. The board offered no additional announcements and voted unanimously to adjourn.

Two members of the public commented during the open public comment period:

1. An in-person resident stated that after contacting MassDEP, he learned of significant financial and regulatory implications of the board’s chosen transfer station design that he believes were not fully considered when the vote was taken. He urged the board to disclose these financial impacts — including a potential ongoing cost that could offset transfer station revenue — at town meeting rather than have a resident raise them from the floor.

2. A remote participant (identified as Barbara’s husband) recalled that approximately one year prior the board had determined it could proceed with transfer station upgrades using existing funds, with a projected completion of one year. He expressed concern that little visible progress had been made and asked what the prospects were for the project moving forward.

Two residents spoke during public comment.

Sarah Gold (Reed Street; School Committee member): Expressed concern that school department cuts, when broken down by sub-department, are far deeper than town-side reductions. Examples cited:

• Special education positions: 4.5% reduction
• Educational para/tutor positions: ~7% reduction
• High school English teachers: 8.3% reduction
• High school science teachers: 15.3% reduction (21.4% if paras included)
• District library media specialists: 20% reduction
• Fifth-grade teachers: 20% reduction
• Lunch paras: ~38.5% reduction

She also noted the mental health counseling center cut, connecting it to the elimination of lunch para positions that allow school counselors to run lunch groups.

James (last name unclear): Questioned whether the group insurance (GIC) budget is overly conservative. He noted FY22 actuals were approximately $11.4M against a budget of approximately $14.6M, with recent annual increases of approximately 5.4–5.7%. He estimated FY24 actuals could come in below $13M while the budget shows approximately $14.6M, and suggested the cushion may be too large given the depth of service cuts elsewhere. The Finance Committee chair acknowledged some cushion exists but said the current year is not the time to eliminate it given the upcoming PEC negotiation.

Three speakers addressed the committee during public comment:

1. Retired occupational therapist (unnamed): Expressed strong support for school funding and special education services based on 35 years of professional experience. Raised concern that bundling school and town override requests into a single ballot question could complicate voter decision-making, suggesting that voters who support school funding might be deterred by other town items in the same question.

2. Sarah Gold, 9 Reed Street (School Committee member): Expressed difficulty with the framing that school cuts are more impactful than cuts in other departments, while acknowledging she supports the limited ask this year. Emphasized that pitting one town department against another is counterproductive.

3. Jen Schaffner (online): Asked procedural questions about where to submit questions on cemetery and assessor budgets and on the history of Chapter 70 allocation. She noted that economies of scale make cuts at small departments (Cemetery, Assessor) disproportionately harmful relative to savings, and said she understood the approach taken.

The board opened public comment. One resident (identified as Brad) raised a matter relating to consultant or resource use connected to the harbor plan; the chair responded that the broad letter of intent likely covers the matter and deferred to the Town Administrator’s judgment. No other public comments were recorded.

One resident at the meeting raised a concern that staff reports were delivered too quickly to absorb all information and asked how clarifications could be obtained given the board’s no-back-and-forth public comment policy. The chair indicated the resident could speak with staff after the meeting. No other public comment was recorded.

A Mental Health Task Force member presented several upcoming initiatives:

• Healthy Kids Day (tentatively April 26) at the YMCA, bringing together the Counseling Center, Elliott Emergency Services, children’s services providers, and private practitioners for assessments and mindfulness activities.
• A monthly mental health column in the Marblehead Current, with Susan Stelk, Mark Levin, and Melissa Kuperwicz meeting with the editor.
• A $2,650 budget request for: website management by Pete Schelk (~$15/month for minor updates), a 10×10 branded canopy tent for community events, Marblehead Cares magnets (produced with the Female Humane Society), and rack-card brochures (249 for 1,000 cards; 279 for 2,500).

The presenter also highlighted the Massachusetts Behavioral Health Helpline (833-773-2445), available 24/7, with online chat at masshealthline.com. The board indicated a vote on the budget request could occur at the next meeting.

Several community members and union representatives addressed the committee:

• MEA Co-Presidents Jonathan Heller and Sally Chevriot submitted a joint statement with the superintendent in support of the level-services budget, noting collaboration and calling for a dedicated school override in FY25 to address longer-term needs including pay parity and class-size reduction.
• Grace Wilberson (student) spoke against eliminating the Veterans Middle School librarian position.
• Dan Albert, 58 Lesser Road, questioned whether consolidating with a neighboring district could address the structural budget problem and asked about central office reductions before classroom cuts.
• Becky (via Zoom) asked about ARPA allocation percentages; administration responded that the district represents ~50% of the town budget but has received only 7.8% of ARPA funds (~$900,000 of $6M), or ~14% if current requests are approved.
• Katherine Martin, 29 West Shore Drive, urged more aggressive ARPA requests and criticized the town’s 2016–2017 warnings going unheeded; also asked about ~$1.4M remaining in the Brown School building project.
• Kim Day, 18 Liberty Road, asked about next steps and sought clarification on the high school special education line-item reduction (explained as a coding-accuracy improvement, not a program cut) and why the reduced-services figure was set at 1.82% (the $800,000 figure was the town’s allocation to the schools).
• Samantha Rosado, 3 Martin Terrace, a Glover School staff member and parent, expressed concern about paraprofessional wages and morale; administration confirmed minimum-wage funding is included in both budget scenarios.
• Tom Mathers (school committee member) and another speaker emphasized the importance of town–school partnership and avoiding adversarial framing.

Administration confirmed there are no cuts to the current school year; any reduction notices for FY25 would not be issued until after the June 20 election.

During public comment, a resident identified as Aaron asked whether departments were actively using the ClearGov budget software and whether any transition delays would slow the Finance Committee’s review process. Town Administrator Thatcher and Finance Director Alicia confirmed that departments have logins and are completing training modules, but that the current budget cycle will continue to use Excel spreadsheets. The digital budget book will be available for FY24. The committee’s hearing process will not be impacted by the ClearGov transition.

Public comment followed the board’s deliberations. Key remarks included:

• Tom Mathers (School Committee): Supported a stabilization fund, appreciated the explicit assurance that schools are included in level-service funding, and suggested the two override articles be kept separate on the ballot with the structural-deficit article listed first.
• Unidentified resident: Asked whether the structural override would be a permanent general override or a time-limited exclusion, and whether the town’s existing Triple-A bond rating would actually be jeopardized without a stabilization fund.
• Catherine Martin (29 West Shore Drive): Expressed concern about the timeline — five weeks from Town Meeting with no specific numbers yet — and about oversight of a potential stabilization fund given prior fiscal warning signs dating to 2016–2017.
• Megan: Encouraged the board to expedite public forums, noting that residents had been tracking financial reports for years and were not as uninformed as implied.
• Ron: Commended the board for applying lessons learned and praised the new Finance Director’s expertise.
• Nancy Hempel: Asked for clarity on how much free cash would be available if voters reject both the structural-deficit override and the stabilization fund.
• Paul Baker (79 Overlook Road): Echoed concern about board member participation during the discussion.

Catherine Martin addressed the committee, arguing that by voting against the override/warrant article before receiving a town budget number, members had given up their only leverage. Key points:

“Your only card… rescind your vote tonight, carry your warrant. If they give you what you need in the morning then vote to get rid of it.”

• She said the town had repeatedly failed to keep commitments to the school department and that the Select Board chair was publicly criticizing school finances.
• She argued the district lacked a formal strategic plan that could rally community support for funding.
• She referenced the 2019 budget situation as a parallel and COVID-era federal funds as having masked structural underfunding.

The chair noted she had not opened for public comment at the start of the meeting and briefly opened the floor. No members of the public raised their hand or typed in the chat. The meeting was adjourned at approximately 10 a.m.

Frank (24 Pickwick Road): Asked the board to envision what they would wish they had done the day after losing an override vote. He argued that given the current political climate, one open forum would be inadequate and urged broad involvement of department heads, employees, parents, and students.

Sarah Fox (School Committee Chair): Reiterated the importance of the fincom’s independence; called on the board to use the DOR-recommended free-cash percentage as the only plug in the budget, making the override ask equal to a true structural balance. She emphasized that partial plugs push the problem to future taxpayers. She also asked for an update on whether the $800,000 allocated for school contractual obligations remains accurate in light of new insurance data.

Jessica Benedetto of Bradley Road addressed the committee regarding a Marblehead Current article about a Thought Exchange survey in which 340 residents participated. She argued the survey had significant selection bias, excluding busy working parents, and that using its results — in which transportation ranked 150 out of 172 priorities — to guide budget decisions was methodologically flawed. She noted she has requested busing for grades 7–12 for three years and lives 2.6 miles from the high school with no safe walking route.

Pat Franklin, attending in a finance committee liaison capacity, asked the school committee chair to clarify that remarks attributing fincom support to specific override items — such as raising paraprofessional wages to minimum wage, expanding technology/STEAM curriculum, and investing in out-of-district placement reduction programs — were preliminary. Franklin noted that understanding costs to meet minimum state frameworks was a personal suggestion and that the broader fincom discussion was a work in progress.

A resident (Paul Baker) noted that both the Coffin and Evelith school properties have been empty since the Brand School opened approximately 15 months ago and asked why the school committee had not voted to transfer them back to the town for potential sale, referencing the Gerry School sale at approximately $700,000–$800,000 as a comparable.

The school committee chair responded that the topic was discussed and voted on at the most recent Facilities Subcommittee meeting, that another facilities meeting had been posted for the following Tuesday, and that an update would be given at the full school committee meeting the following Thursday. She directed the resident to the YouTube recording of the prior facilities meeting for details.

Public comment included the following substantive remarks:

• Marblehead Beacon representative described filing repeated public records requests since July, ultimately appealing to the Secretary of State, and stated the town provided only a snapshot rather than the average daily balances and timeline requested. She noted that a Select Board member is president of National Grand Bank and argued that warranted public discussion.
• Sarah Fox, 46 Peach Tree (school committee context) urged the board to work expeditiously across all departments to present an override option to voters, warning that 1.3% revenue growth does not cover contractual obligations.
• Jen Schaffner, 20 Casino Road asked for clarity on the process: who decides what goes in an override, when will a level-funded budget be presented, and what is the Finance Committee’s role?
• Nancy (55 Commercial Street, online) offered historical perspective on the finance department going back to the 1980s, noted the town remained on a legacy system from 1977 well into the 2000s, and suggested zero-based budgeting and position control systems.
• Becca Whitten, 150 Atlantic Avenue (online) asked which accounts the Select Board has oversight over; Keyser answered: none—the treasurer has an independent statutory mandate.
• Jim Fall, 21 Chamber Avenue asked for the current interest rate at Eastern Bank and expressed frustration that no one could provide a simple answer.
• Megan Sweeney, 23 Beacon Street praised policy-and-procedure progress but urged the board to engage the press as a transparency partner and expressed concern about the February timeline for an override discussion.
• Brett Murray noted that with town meeting on May 1st, the board is already late, citing the school department override attempt the prior year that passed town meeting but failed at the ballot box.
• Mark Pelletier raised employee retention, noting concern about five-year plans given recent high staff turnover.
• Jim Ziston, Two Mile Road (corporator of a local bank and former housing authority treasurer) explained that Eastern Bank likely holds a large share because it manages municipal trust funds, which few banks do.
• Kathy Hempel, 9 Palmer Road recommended establishing a community communication plan using organizations like the League of Women Voters to explain override pros and cons.
• An unnamed resident flagged that the FY2022 CAFR has not been publicly released, and that its numbers may not match figures in the night’s presentation.

Catherine Martin, 29 West Shore Drive, thanked presenters and said she has been advocating for exemplary education. She expressed concern about the financial outlook and repeated a request she has made at public comment for approximately two years: the district should develop a true strategic plan with definitive timelines and budget drivers attached to the Planning for Success framework. She argued that tying asks to measurable outcomes and a multi-year plan would give taxpayers and residents a clearer picture and improve the political viability of an override request.

After the appointment, the chair opened the floor for public comment. No members of the public addressed either board. The School Committee adjourned first, followed by the Select Board at approximately 9:19 PM on a unanimous roll-call vote.

A resident participating online during public comment took issue with the board’s earlier discussion of Complete Streets, arguing that the program is a street design philosophy—covering pedestrians, cyclists, transit users, and people with disabilities—not merely a grant funding stream. The resident expressed concern that meeting minutes went unrecorded for years and that the committee had not been maintained, characterizing it as the town making a commitment with its fingers crossed. No other public comments were offered.

Barbara (36 Chestnut Street), a retired Navy official, addressed the board. He described directing the Navy’s Campaign Drug Free program nationally and, after returning to Marblehead, restarting substance-abuse education efforts in 2016 at the request of local residents following an overdose death in his neighborhood. He is currently working with the regional DARE coordinator and has spoken with Marblehead High School administration and the town health director.

Key points raised:

• He cited an Essex County sheriff statistic that approximately 80% of jail inmates have substance-abuse histories.
• He questioned the board’s role in approving marijuana dispensaries in Marblehead, noting concerns about increased teen usage in states that have legalized cannabis.
• He argued substance-abuse education must begin in early elementary grades and be tiered through middle and high school.
• He offered himself as a certified resource to the board and the schools.
• District Attorney Paul Tucker’s interest in reinstating DARE was noted.

A board member (Tom McMahon, who had remained) added that purpose-driven activities and mentorship programs are as important as awareness campaigns in preventing substance abuse.

A board member read from an American Lung Association ‘Tobacco-Free 23’ campaign release, noting that 11.1% of Massachusetts residents smoke and tobacco use causes approximately 9,300 preventable deaths per year in the state. The member asked the board to add a formal discussion item to the next meeting’s agenda, potentially involving outreach to the high school, middle school, and Senior Center. The health director noted that the town already has a tobacco control grant through the state and a regional coordinator, Joyce Redford, who covers the North Shore from Marblehead to Gloucester. The director noted that Marblehead had enacted a tobacco-21 age restriction before the state did. The board agreed to invite Joyce Redford to the next meeting.

Resident Dan Albert of 58 Leeson Road addressed the board regarding a pedestrian struck on November 29 at the intersection of Bessom Street and Pleasant Street near Village Plaza at approximately 5:02 PM. Drawing from a police report and local news coverage, Albert described the circumstances: a driver turning left from Bessom Street onto Pleasant Street struck a pedestrian, Mary Pimentel, who was crossing outside a marked crosswalk. A second vehicle had stopped to allow the pedestrian to cross, which Albert suggested contributed to the driver’s failure to see her.

Albert made three specific requests:

1. Data escalation — Every police report involving a pedestrian, cyclist, or other vulnerable road user should be escalated to the Town Administrator and reported to the Select Board with follow-up on corrective action.
2. Street lighting coordination — The Marblehead Municipal Light Department (MMLD), which converted to LED streetlights approximately 15 years ago, should coordinate with relevant town departments to follow the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices standards for roadway illumination levels.
3. Cultural shift in policing — Albert argued that police reports in such incidents tend to focus on driver-favorable framing (noting the pedestrian’s dark clothing, absence from a crosswalk) without adequately assessing pedestrian injuries or rights, noting that state law does not require pedestrians to use crosswalks if none is within 300 feet.

The Town Administrator responded that pedestrian incidents are currently discussed with the police chief as patterns emerge, that a sidewalk and walkway condition study is underway (previously funded by the board), and that coordination with DPW Director Amy McHugh on crosswalk painting and bump-out projects is ongoing. He noted that completed bump-outs are awaiting fog-line painting to clarify road geometry for drivers.

Following the vote, the chair pro tem invited public comment. No public participants came forward and the agenda item was closed without comment.

The chair opened public comment and invited anyone online to raise their hand. No public speakers participated.

Bonnie Grenier (17 Sagamore Road / League of Women Voters): Expressed concern that Senate Bill 3027 could languish in the legislature as a similar snow-emergency parking fine bill (Senate Bill 2288) has for over two years since a 2020 town meeting vote. She asked the board to use its influence to expedite the bill in time for the June 2023 town elections. The chair noted plans to meet with the state representative and would inquire directly.

Jim (Two Mile Road): Expressed support for a proposed sustainability/energy coordinator position, noting that similar positions in other towns pay for themselves through energy-savings partnerships. Also flagged the West Shore Drive bump-out as a hazard that has already caused vehicle damage.

Resident (Tello’s Road): Delivered a detailed presentation on traffic safety concerns on Rockaway Avenue and Rock Cliff Road. Key points:

• Over six months ago two young children were nearly struck by a vehicle at the Rockaway/Rock Cliff intersection
• Police collected a seven-day speed study showing an average speed of 15 mph on Rock Cliff Road; Chief King determined no intervention was warranted
• The resident questioned the study methodology, noting that 18% of the 651 recorded trips were motorcycles and that approximately 100 vehicles per day were using the 300-foot block
• Argued that the police are asked to shoulder traffic safety responsibilities that require cross-departmental coordination including engineering and planning
• Called for a public-facing, comprehensive traffic safety process allowing residents to submit concerns and track responses across departments
• Also requested that meeting recordings be more prominently posted on the town website alongside agendas and minutes

Catherine Wilmington, age 10 (46 Speed Street): Expressed concern about pedestrian safety at a bump-out between Pleasant Street and Village Street, noting tire marks in the grass and on the sidewalk.

Alan (online): Raised concerns about the Smith Street / Devereaux bump-out construction, citing the loss of approximately six parking spaces, a post office exit radius too tight for safe egress, trucks already driving over the corner, and uncertainty about snow removal. Also asked about the status of a long-promised ADA-compliance fix at the Beach Street and Atlantic Avenue intersection.

The chair invited public comment from those present and on Zoom. No one came forward and the committee moved on to the superintendent’s report.

Resident 1 commented on the fuel station (noting it had appeared overdue for replacement) and raised the idea of a home-rule charter, citing Amesbury’s charter as a model with clear vacancy-filling procedures. He urged the Select Board to appoint an ad-hoc committee to explore the concept, noting many neighboring communities have adopted charters.

The chair responded that MGL Chapter 41 Section 11 is clear and prescriptive on vacancy procedures, though acknowledged the broader merits of the charter discussion.

Resident 2 (Dan) argued that the town’s Complete Streets policy (signed 2018) requires annual reporting in the Town Report of metrics such as miles of bicycle routes, new pedestrian accommodations, and curb ramps installed — reporting he said he cannot find in recent Town Reports. He contended that Complete Streets is a philosophical shift in street design that prioritizes pedestrians, cyclists, and wheelchair users equally with motor vehicles, not merely a state funding stream. He cited specific examples including the Smith Street rail trail crossing alignment and a requested crosswalk on Maple Street that was denied. He called for the Complete Streets Committee to become a standing committee rather than an ad-hoc body.

The chair called for public comment. No members of the public raised their hands, and the meeting proceeded to the scheduled presentation.

The chair opened the public comment period. No residents came forward to speak.

At the opening of the meeting the chair invited public comment. One attendee (identified as Aaron) stated he had caught the meeting on the calendar and wanted to advocate for more emphasis on curriculum, extracurricular activities, project-based learning, longer school days, and career-readiness programs for non-college-track students.

Dan Albert, 58 Lester Road: Raised a decade-old commitment to reduce the speed limit on Leggs Hill Road to 25 mph, tied to the YMCA construction. He noted that the existing 30 mph sign and a non-functional solar-powered advisory sign could be replaced with a school safety zone as originally promised. He urged the board to actively follow up with engineering firms (Tool Design and Stantec) rather than assume plans will be executed without oversight.

Sarah Fox: Urged the board, as future ARPA allocations are considered, to look at what other towns are doing to address learning loss and social-emotional outcomes in schools, and to use those as benchmarks for town-school partnerships with remaining ARPA funds.

During public comment, a board member suggested placing signs at the transfer station entrance and recycling area when new annual stickers become available (approximately the second week of December), noting that some users are unaware stickers are required.

A prior resident suggestion to check stickers on Saturdays was discussed; staff noted that dedicating one employee solely to sticker checks would leave other areas understaffed. Installation of cameras at the facility in the near future was mentioned as a way to free up staff time. The new automated gate system was also noted as a longer-term solution.

Resident Becky Tsuchu raised three questions during public comment:

1. Elementary schedules: She asked how instructional time is calculated at Glover School, noting 40 minutes for lunch and recess leaves an unexplained 35 additional minutes in the day.
2. Lunch lines: She observed that on days with popular menu items (e.g., burrito/taco day), it took approximately 17 minutes of the 20-minute lunch period for all students to get through the line, leaving very little actual lunch or recess time for grades 1–3.
3. Arts scheduling at Village School: She learned at open house that art and music are offered in alternating half-years in sixth grade rather than concurrently, and questioned whether that provides equivalent instructional time.

The chair indicated these are operational matters and directed her to follow up with building principals.

During the open public comment period, a resident named Jack stated that sticker enforcement at the transfer station gate — historically conducted by a gate attendant — is no longer occurring. He reported observing vehicles with out-of-town markings using the facility on multiple occasions in recent months. He suggested targeted overtime enforcement, particularly on busy Saturdays, to protect revenue and ensure the facility serves only Marblehead residents. A board member expressed agreement. No formal action was taken.

A resident (identified as Alan, 159 [street unclear]) stated that two of the Light Commission candidates had referenced reading meeting minutes to stay informed, then challenged the board’s response — via town counsel — that public comments not engaged by the board need not appear in the minutes. He argued this position constitutes censorship and asked the board to place a vote on the record regarding the letter sent in the board’s name by town counsel. The chair indicated the board would follow its legal counsel’s judgment.

A speaker identified as Jackie, affiliated with the town’s anti-hate coalition, reported that police had documented antisemitic and racist graffiti at the Recreation park building near Camp Shirley. She called on parents, churches, synagogues, and community organizations to address the behavior, noting that Chief King is also a coalition member and that police are working to identify perpetrators. A board member echoed the statement and called on communities of faith to respond.

Shannon Borthwick (12 Gilbert Heights Road) told the committee she has a fourth-grader at Village and a second-grader at Brown. She said multiple parents had contacted the Brown principal about recess being cut from two periods to one and received responses they found unsatisfying. She cited research on the importance of physical activity for learning and social-emotional development, and noted that she had moved to Marblehead in part because of concerns about insufficient unstructured play time in Winthrop public schools.

Three residents addressed the committee during public comment:

• Josh Barron (17 Vassar Road) raised questions about what process exists for approving accommodations for children of school committee members, how staff can raise concerns without fear of retaliation, and what investigation would be conducted regarding allegations he had heard in the community.
• Jessica Benedetto (8 Bradley Road) proposed adding 7th and 8th grade students at Veterans School to the paid-to-ride bus program on Run 3 only, contingent on a dedicated bus and driver, arguing that run utilization data showed available capacity.
• Catherine Martin (29 Westshire Drive) expressed strong objection to any public discussion of school committee members’ children, calling it ‘disgraceful.’

During closing remarks, multiple board members commended the Marblehead Fire Department and neighboring-town mutual aid responders for their work at a recent transfer station fire. The chair also noted that public comment is available at all regular Select Board meetings at the chair’s discretion.

A spokesperson for Marblehead News Group described the organization’s mission: to provide objective, community-focused local journalism governed by a Marblehead-based board of directors rather than out-of-town corporations.

Key details shared:

• Platform: Currently online at marbleheadnews.org, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; a free print edition is planned for broad distribution.
• Nonprofit status: Officially recognized as a 501(c)(3), enabling grant and donation funding in addition to advertising.
• Journalists: Doug Whynott (full-time editor), Chris Olsen (consulting editor, former Marblehead Reporter editor), and Lyn Bender (lead freelance writer).
• Board: Includes a former AP New England bureau chief and Virginia Buckingham, former CEO of Massport and former Chief of Staff to two Massachusetts Governors.

Board members expressed strong personal support for the initiative and encouraged residents to consider donating to the nonprofit.

A resident from Sheldon Road, identifying themselves as a member of the town’s housing production plan committee, stated they were unable to join the meeting virtually due to a technical failure at start time and expressed frustration that no after-hours contact existed to resolve the issue. The resident acknowledged this was not an open meeting violation but described it as disrespectful to residents interested in public business.

A second resident raised concerns about neighbors on Arnold Terrace feeling dismissed by characterizations of traffic impacts as a ‘minor inconvenience,’ and noted those residents had expressed feeling misled about the transfer station access road. The resident also raised a question about the facility sticker policy for board members.

Multiple residents spoke during an extended public comment period:

• Kate Thompson (on behalf of 32 signatories) read excerpts from a letter in the correspondence packet raising concerns about alleged targeting of community member Bree Sawberry and her family during the campaign season. The letter asked the committee to: (1) uphold anti-bullying standards, (2) publicly reaffirm confidentiality commitments, and (3) refrain from administering or participating in local school-related social media groups.

• Kim Day (18 Liberty Road) expressed hope that the new committee composition represents a fresh start, urged the committee to pursue a future override, and called for early and broad community education to build support.

• Cindy Lowen sent a letter (included in the packet) urging the committee to work together, called social media pressure on the chair selection ‘unacceptable,’ and said she hoped all five members would commit to school funding.

• Jen Jackson (co-chair of Marblehead CPAC) reported that 40 individuals across all five schools received Unsung Hero certificates that morning and offered to provide a PDF of honorees’ names for the district website.

• Nicole Cohen (40 Clifton Avenue) offered a contrasting view, arguing the committee’s past dysfunction contributed to the override’s failure, and urged members to listen to the community rather than blame it.

• Amanda Rivers asked that Allison Taylor be given a fair chance before being prejudged.

• Katherine Martin (29 West Shore Drive) praised past committee decisions including pre-paying out-of-district tuition before the pandemic, called for a five-year strategic plan with timelines and budget drivers, and offered to campaign for any future override if backed by a solid plan.

• John Prinderville asked whether the committee and superintendent would pursue ARPA funds from the Select Board for the approximately $880,000 in school security upgrades that had been included in the override.

Resident from 64 Roosevelt Avenue raised concerns about:

• The town administrator phone message still listing a former administrator who had left months earlier.
• Electronic speed/message signs placed in dangerous locations (Waterside Road, Pleasant Street, Vine Street) near crosswalks and tight traffic areas.
• Contractor vehicles parked without municipal license plates along public roads, including on Military Street near Hawthorne Road.
• Whether the e-plus IT contract covers all town departments (Water & Sewer, Electric Light, Schools, Harbor Master) or only general town government.

The Police Chief responded that sign placement is done carefully with Chief King, that contractor-owned signs on Pleasant Street are DOT-sized highway boards that were noted as oversized, and that smaller homeland-security-procured signs are available as a substitute. He confirmed the trailers would be registered.

Resident from 24 Longview Drive commented on capital project oversight following the override vote, recommending: separate budget buckets for roads vs. roofs, a prioritized list by department, and a standing building/roads committee to provide regular public updates and guard against inflation risk.

Resident from Longview Drive area (different speaker) spoke in support of the discussion about board diversity, describing encountering many newer residents interested in civic participation who lack existing connections to town networks, and suggesting a general five-year maximum term for volunteer board positions to create openings for new members.

Before formal public comment, a committee member (identified contextually as Sarah Fox, chair) stated that a letter submitted by a school committee member’s husband alleging she had been verbally abusive was inaccurate and politically motivated. She said the conversation in question was a professional courtesy to address concerns about her summative review.

During public comment, one resident thanked David Harris for his service and raised two questions: (1) whether the committee has or should have a civility policy, and (2) why the committee has not publicly addressed declining enrollment — noting enrollment dropped from approximately 3,100 students in 2017 to approximately 2,600 in 2022 — or the departure of teachers and staff.

Several members of the public addressed the board during and after the IT contract discussion and in new business:

IT Contract (Marco, IT specialist): Flagged end-of-life Fortinet hardware, unclear hardware ownership, recurring subscription costs for Nutanix/Cisco/Office 365, and the lack of in-house IT oversight.

IT Contract (Lina/Elena, Marblehead Beacon): Cited a December 2021 town audit that identified IT infrastructure concerns; questioned the absence of a service agreement before the vote and lack of measurable success metrics.

Harbors and Waters Board appointments (Jocelyn Cook): Asked why no new members had been appointed to the board since 2017 (Clark Smith) aside from one alternate in 2019, and asked whether a board member with ties to National Grand Bank would recuse himself given overlapping membership with the Harbors and Waters Board.

Volunteer appointment policy (board discussion): A board member proposed exploring written policies for volunteer board appointments based on best practices from other towns. Others expressed concern that formalizing an interview process would discourage existing volunteers.

Gas-powered leaf blower bylaw (board member): Clarified that the bylaw passed at town meeting must still be reviewed by the Attorney General’s office (21-day submission, 90-day review window) and that no fine structure was authorized by town meeting, making enforcement impossible this summer.

Kaya Frechette, 50 Rockaway Avenue, spoke as a parent of a preschooler at Glover School and as a licensed mental health counselor specializing in children and adolescents. She reported her special-needs child was positively impacted by the mindfulness program and cited evidence-based research linking mindfulness practices to decreased stress and anxiety, improved interpersonal skills, and better academic outcomes. She strongly encouraged continuation of the program.

Two members of the public spoke during the public comment period:

Michael (resident, last name unclear from audio) asked the board to table the regulations, arguing:

• Setback requirements are too low for a densely populated town.
• The City of Beverly recently removed residents’ ability to keep fowl, citing public health concerns about germs and rodents.
• The regulation does not specify how many neighbors opposing an application would be sufficient to deny it.
• The regulation was not publicly disclosed in advance and the board had not yet evaluated materials submitted by neighbors weeks earlier.
• A permit violation could take up to a year to resolve, which he considered too long.

Alma (attorney for the Joyce family, 165 West Shore Drive) raised three questions:

1. The ‘chronic nuisance’ definition appears only in the definitions section with no corresponding enforcement mechanism described.
2. She suggested a pre-written sworn statement form be provided to applicants to streamline the application process.
3. She questioned whether Section 8(c)’s burden-of-proof requirement — that the applicant must demonstrate the permit will not be detrimental to public welfare — was appropriate, suggesting it could lead to inconsistent treatment of applicants depending on neighborhood dynamics, and that the burden might more appropriately rest on the town in a revocation context.

A resident identified as a retired marketing researcher raised several questions about the ARPA process:

1. Public forums: Asked why Marblehead had not held community forums while most Massachusetts communities already had. Board members responded that a full public presentation is planned and criteria are already posted on the town website.
2. Transparency complaint: Stated she had contacted the Secretary of the Commonwealth to obtain information about ARPA projects, which she felt was necessary because she could not get answers otherwise. Board members strongly disputed any lack of transparency and cited the transition in town administration as a factor in the pace.
3. Technology spending and the override: Asked why ARPA funds were not being used for the roughly $1.7 million in technology spending included in the override question, rather than using override revenue. A board member responded that much of the technology spending was on the school side and did not meet ARPA covid-impact criteria as defined by the working group.
4. Shell game concern: Asked for assurance that ARPA money would not be used to substitute for other spending. Board members rejected the framing as offensive and reiterated the structured, criteria-based process.

Board members acknowledged the resident’s research background and said the working group’s survey, criteria, and methodology would be publicly presented once fully constituted with the new Town Administrator.

The chair opened the general public comment portion of the meeting following the close of the school choice public hearing. No members of the public raised their hands to speak.

Two residents spoke during public comment:

• Resident, 159 Miami Avenue (Alan): Expressed ongoing dissatisfaction with the performance of current town counsel over the past two years and suggested it may be time to change counsel. He also acknowledged the new town administrator appointment.

• Second resident: Agreed with the first speaker on town counsel. Raised IT concerns and noted he had offered feedback on the town’s website and course material to the interim administrator without response. On the town administrator search, he acknowledged Keeser’s qualifications but expressed concern that ending up with one finalist felt like an act of desperation, noting that Keeser had previously applied for a town manager position elsewhere and did not advance, and that his career path appeared to show a regression from mayor to working for a mayor.

• Jack, 67th Street: Thanked the board for the new town administrator and noted a survey on access to polling places is available on the town website.

Board member Joanne Miller reported that the Marblehead Mental Health Task Force co-hosted a Cinco de Mayo resource fair with the Council on Aging on May 5, 2022. Eighty-five people attended in person and 35 participated via livestream. A panel moderated by Dr. Kimberly Leventhal included clinicians from McLean Hospital, Elder Care Services, and Leahy Behavioral Health discussing depression, anxiety, and caregiver challenges for older adults. The next community conversation is planned for the fall in partnership with the NAN Project. Chief Dennis King connected the task force with a Leahy Health social-worker jail-diversion initiative providing 24 hours per week of embedded mental health support for the police department.

Nicole Cohen raised four concerns about the prior week’s meeting: characterizing guidance to ‘be careful with words’ on the override as lacking candor; a perceived open-meeting-law risk from policy discussions at a dinner; the quick dismissal of a public survey on the superintendent’s evaluation; and the chair’s failure to stop a public commenter from discussing a student’s accommodations and IEP based on rumor.

Cindy Bowen, a member of the Marblehead Racial Justice team, praised the committee for attending METCO headquarters and encouraged continued support for METCO families, a stable METCO director, and growth toward 100-plus METCO students.

Jonathan Letterman (United Road) — Former school committee member (2013–2020). Raised three concerns: (1) the district published only a budget supplement, not a full line-item budget, arguing this may violate MGL Chapter 71 Section 38N requiring full budget publication 48 hours before the hearing; (2) the true cost of adding lower-paid, benefits-eligible staff falls on the town budget for retirement and insurance, not the school budget; (3) characterizing any reduction to proposed new spending as ‘cutting to the bone’ is inaccurate. He cited Westford as a comparable district spending $2,000 less per student with higher academic rankings. Administration responded that a detailed budget binder has been available at the central office since December and that full salary line items are not published in advance because staff assignments fluctuate before July 1.

Meredith Tedford (40 Locust Street) — Former school committee member. Expressed appreciation for the override effort, noting many budget needs have been deferred for years. Acknowledged the structural fiscal disconnect between school and town budgets would persist; noted the interim town administrator and incoming town manager search committee have identified it as a top priority.

Nancy Smith (55 Commercial Street) — Asked how the school lunch program is managed to maximize federal reimbursement. Administration confirmed the program is largely self-sustaining under federal program rules, with only the food service director’s salary carried in the operating budget; noted the district is currently searching for a new food service director and projected a surplus balance at year-end.

Jessica Benedetto (8 Bradley Road) — Parent in the pay-to-ride program. Raised concern that the ‘additional’ bus driver is actually a vacancy refill, not a net new position, and that the routing is inefficient (over one hour to travel 1.5 miles). Requested expansion of busing to middle and high school students living more than two miles from school. Administration clarified two bus driver positions are currently vacant, a third is a new FY23 request to expand the pay-to-ride program.

Jeff St. George (29 West Shore Drive) — Special education parent. Expressed concern about large team chair caseloads, specialist ratios, and lack of inclusion for students with complex IEPs. Called for the district to implement a co-taught model. Paula Donnelly (Special Services) responded that the district has a 5.1 student-to-staff ratio across all staff and 3.7 students per special education staff member including related service providers; noted special education professional development is largely grant-funded.

Kim Day (18 Liberty Road) — Expressed appreciation for the override effort. Questioned why the DEI director position was prioritized over curriculum director positions at the high school that had been previously cut. Asked whether a consultant model would be more cost-effective.

Julia Ferreira (district employee, DEI team) — Spoke in support of the DEI director budget item, emphasizing that consultant models cannot build the in-district relationships needed for student-facing work and that school-based DEI teams have already been established.

Maggie Dobin (district employee, DEI team) — Emphasized that SEL and DEI are intertwined and that Marblehead is the last district in the immediate area to consider a DEI director position. Noted a recent LGBTQ community event she had to leave to attend this meeting as evidence of ongoing need.

Emily Dewitt (154 Atlantic Ave) — Echoed support for high school curriculum support positions. Noted a line-through on those positions in the published budget; administration clarified the positions are being restructured (existing teachers taking reduced teaching loads for curriculum liaison work) rather than eliminated.

Alexis Singer (22 [street not captured]) — Asked whether K–6 social studies curriculum adoption is in this budget. Administration confirmed it is not; explained the district is currently building a K–12 scope and sequence for the first time and piloting a DESE-offered grades 5–7 social studies program before committing to a full adoption.

Catherine Martin addressed the committee during the brief public comment period. She argued that with an override on the horizon the committee should proactively distribute budget information — including items still under discussion such as user fees and curriculum coaches — to parents via Blackboard/Connected messenger and any other channel available. She emphasized that parent turnout at town meeting and at the subsequent override election depends on residents understanding what the funds would purchase, and that many younger parents are unaware of long-standing funding gaps such as the special education reserve not keeping pace with inflation.

Ali Taylor (Orange Street) praised teacher Mrs. O’Flynn for differentiating instruction for above-grade-level students but argued the district fails to consistently provide appropriately challenging material once students return to in-person learning, calling the gap a “grave disservice.”

Cindy (Marblehead Racial Justice Team) announced a March 23 presentation at the Brown Elementary School featuring portraits of Harriet Tubman and John Lewis, and raised concern about instability in the METCO program’s director position.

Monique Lloyd (METCO PCO president, MHS parent) stated that METCO is now on its fifth director in four and a half years, that the most recent director Deandra Williams resigned effective that Friday, and that students and parents are distressed. She called on the school committee to prioritize understanding why directors are not being retained.

Kim Day (18 Liberty Road) thanked the committee for returning meetings to Zoom format and encouraged continued public participation.

One public commenter, identified only as Erin, thanked the board — and specifically Joanne Miller as task force chair — for the quality and pace of work accomplished in the task force’s first year.

Terri Allen McDonough (Social Service Director), Tim Phillips and Frank Sweeney (co-presidents), and Michael Pelletier (clinical director) presented the center’s annual update.

Key figures cited: | Metric | Value | |—|—| | Current town funding | $60,000/year (~10% of total budget) | | Historical town funding (~30 years ago) | ~$140,000/year (~67% of budget) | | Funding level requested | ~$120,000/year | | Annual sessions currently | 7,000+ | | Sessions 15 years ago | <3,000 | | Residents on waitlist | 300+ (110 cited on one slide) | | Additional sessions $120K would fund | ~905 | | Fundraising (recent) | >$100,000/year, up ~60% |

Representatives noted that recruiting licensed clinicians costs $2,000–$4,000 per hire and can take up to a year. Town money historically provided a buffer to see patients before insurance credentialing was complete.

Board member Helene Hazlett asked whether the center’s FY23 budget could be revised; the health director indicated the Finance Committee had already voted and a level-funded budget was submitted per direction. The board agreed to revisit a potential increase in the fall, noting the budget process now begins as early as November. The board also noted the center operates out of the town-owned Hobbs building, which has separate capital needs (boiler, trees near roof) discussed with the Select Board.

A resident identified as Jonathan spoke during the first in-person public comment in two years. He raised three concerns: (1) meeting packets are not published in advance, limiting thoughtful public engagement; (2) members of the public cannot participate remotely, unlike committee members; and (3) the combination of late packet release and no remote option effectively prevents informed participation. He argued the technology and legal authority under COVID rules exist to enable remote public participation and urged the committee to act.

The Q&A portion drew extensive public participation. Key themes included:

Traffic and abutters: Residents from Arnold Terrace and Arnold Terrace area noted that a prior assurance had been made that Green Street would see relatively light traffic, which Option B would effectively undo. A resident at 14 Arnold Terrace raised public safety concerns about truck fumes and noise. Brian Wheeler (15 Waterside Road) flagged a potential conflict at the Green Street entrance with a nearby new housing development.

Worker health and safety: Terry Torrell (113 Jersey Street), president of the Marblehead Municipal Employees Union, described conditions at the transfer station including exposed live electrical wires, structural deterioration of the pit, and a six-year-old temporary trailer with sanitary problems. He requested the trailer be replaced during any construction period and asked for assurances that unsafe conditions would not be left unaddressed for another six years.

Project history and litigation: Jerry Smith (project manager, 77-year Marblehead resident) explained that errors in the original engineering firm’s subsurface assessment significantly understated the volume of contaminated waste, driving up costs. He stated that of approximately 50 test pits dug by the original firm, roughly mid-40s were found to be contaminated. Litigation against the original engineer resulted in a settlement; the remaining funds are approximately $1.25 million.

Oversight and process: Multiple residents — including Jim Zissen (2 Mound Road) and Jean Lamkin (19 Denver Street) — recommended obtaining two or three independent cost estimates, establishing an independent building committee modeled on school building committees, and holding at least one more public forum before town meeting to address finances and legal history. Todd Belfinger noted the project did have a building committee for approximately seven years during the landfill cleanup phase.

Capacity limits: Petty noted the facility operates under a small-transfer-station DEP permit capped at 50 tons/day (15,000 tons/year). Recent annual tonnage has been approximately 12,000–13,000 tons, leaving little room for expansion without a major permitting process.

Closing poll results: 41% of attendees preferred Option A; 59% preferred Option B. 51% said they would support an override to fund the project; 49% said they would not.

Three speakers addressed the committee during public comment.

Eileen DaMore (Brown School teacher) read a letter on behalf of concerned staff objecting to the decision not to renew Brown School principal Dr. Satterfield’s contract for 2022-2023. The letter noted his 24 years of experience, described three elementary principals whose contracts were not renewed by the current administration with a combined roughly 50 years of service, and said staff found the decision demoralizing and made without discussion or explanation.

Ramsey Hogan (45 Norman Street) thanked the committee for keeping schools open in person and for reducing absences, but raised concerns about the accommodation policy for immunocompromised students after the move to mask-optional. He cited CDC guidance that universal masking in schools is recommended and argued that telling an immunocompromised child to wear an N95 alone is not an adequate solution.

Grace (sixth-grader at Village School) described having an immunocompromised younger sister and said she had transferred classes due to concerns about mask-wearing. She said she was upset when a school committee member sighed with relief at the mask mandate announcement and was unable to attend school for a week after that. She asked the committee to provide a more inclusive accommodation allowing her to attend a regular class with full-time teachers and peers while still protecting her sister, noting that Village School staff had gone above and beyond to help her.

Four residents were recognized for two minutes each before the board’s vote.

• Will (Juan Arlen Road) argued the board had not consulted the Chamber of Commerce or businesses likely to be negatively affected, cited no scientific evidence to support the mandate, and said community members would work to remove all three board members beginning in June.
• Tom disputed the board’s claim of having visited local businesses, called the policy hypocritical given one member’s travel to Florida, and quoted Benjamin Franklin on liberty and safety.
• Kevin McCurn (24 Foster Street) identified himself as an expert witness on PCR testing, argued that PCR case data is unreliable for tracking COVID because tests can remain positive for 90 days, and urged the board to stop using case counts as justification for mask policy.
• Kim Crowley (21 Roosevelt Avenue) stated she had repeatedly requested specific metrics or thresholds for the mandate over six weeks and received no clear answer, expressed concern the board would impose a mandate again without defined criteria, and noted the impact on her business and teenage children.

Several residents addressed the committee:

Nicole Cohen raised concerns about the Team Harmony DEI presentation at Village School, questioning whether it addressed antisemitism and whether parental consent was required for gender-related content. She also raised questions about masking.

Catherine Martin (29 West Shore Drive) urged the committee to restore the full budget ask for the override, arguing that curriculum coaches, fine arts staff, STEAM professional development, and other items removed from the initial ask should be reinstated. She noted Marblehead has not had an override in 17 years and said parents are ready to mobilize.

Luba Grenadier (27 Elaine St.), a professor at Endicott College, and her son Isaac (a high school senior) spoke about the negative social, mental health, and educational effects of mask mandates, citing Beverly’s recent lift of its mandate.

Emily D. encouraged parents to attend the Superintendent’s “coffee and conversation” sessions rather than relying solely on public comment.

Kim Jay (18 Liberty Road) echoed the budget concerns raised by Catherine Martin, commended crossing guards for their work during the storm, and urged the committee not to go to voters with a partial override ask.

Three residents offered final public comment:

• Kim Crowley, 21 Roosevelt Ave. — asked when in-person Board of Health meetings would resume; the board said no answer was available.
• Phil Podolsky, 5 Countryside Lane — asked about increased coyote activity on streets; Andrew referred him to the Massachusetts wildlife program website and noted trapping or shooting is not currently permitted.
• Sondra Callahan, 25 Nogga [Street] — a medical professional who works non-traditional hours, expressed strong support for continuing Zoom meetings due to the increased public participation it enables.

Public comment on the transfer station plan included:

• James Arthur-Foldt, 21 Cheever Ave. — offered to consult on a simpler solution he said could be implemented for under $1 million; Andrew invited him to meet at the office.
• Tom McMahon, Montgomery Street — alleged that transfer station employees and regular commercial users (naming Kennedy, Hooper Goodwin, and others) had not been consulted, and that board members’ visit to the station did not include soliciting staff input.
• Jen Jaffner, 20 Casino Road — sought clarification on square footage of the employee support building.
• Jack (last name unclear) — asked whether cost estimates had been prepared and whether the project would require town meeting funding or could be covered by existing enterprise fund balances; Andrew said that remained in process.

The board discussed whether to end the mask mandate before its March 8 expiration. Members Hazlett and Miller favored scheduling a meeting in two weeks rather than setting an arbitrary end date. The chair acknowledged both approaches.

Several residents then offered public comment:

• James Charles Cole, 21 Cheever Ave. — urged the board to review CDC and state data and consider ending the mandate.
• Kim Crowley, 21 Roosevelt Ave. — demanded the board establish clear metrics for lifting the mandate before it was imposed.
• Emily Dee, 154 Atlantic Ave. — noted high vaccination rates and asked for defined metrics, citing effects on livelihoods and schools.
• Nicole Cohen — questioned the causal role of masks in case declines and raised the issue of who holds authority over school masking.
• Tom McMahon, 1 Gregory Street — raised the distinction between hospitalized for COVID versus hospitalized with COVID, arguing reported numbers overstate COVID hospitalizations.
• David Richie (last speaker on topic) — called for the board to define specific metrics and expressed concern the mandate would not age well.

The board agreed to post a meeting for February 15 at 7:30 p.m. to reassess the mandate.

Melissa Kavalich addressed the committee during public comment. She thanked Superintendent Bucky for holding a community forum on the school calendar and acknowledged committee member Emily Barron for raising the issue of unequal federal holiday protections.

She stated that suggestions to remove Jewish holidays under the framework of DEI reflect a misunderstanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion principles, noting that DEI education is meant to illuminate historical, legal, and socioeconomic inequities.

She described ongoing antisemitic incidents in the district since her children enrolled in 2005, including swastikas drawn in classrooms and on students’ backpacks, and referenced an incident that week at the Village School. She called on the community to work together and urged the committee to maintain protections for all community members.

Emily DeWitt (154 Atlantic Avenue) asked the board to provide guidance to the small business owner community on the parameters of the current COVID mandate, saying she had not received responses to email inquiries. She noted Governor Baker had indicated the surge appeared to be receding and asked whether the March 8 end date might be reconsidered sooner. A board member responded that the mandate could be rescinded before March 8 if deemed appropriate and that the board would revisit the matter at its next meeting in two weeks.

Seven residents spoke during the mask mandate public comment period:

• Kevin McCurnan (24 Foster Street): Cited a published study of 26,000 children reporting mask-related side effects including headaches, difficulty concentrating, and reduced school willingness. Argued peer-reviewed randomized controlled trials do not support mask mandates and raised liability concerns.
• Paul (Winslow Square Lane): Questioned the reliability of PCR testing and the basis for the mandate.
• Kim Crowley (21 Roosevelt Avenue): Small business owner who stated she sent a letter requesting guidance a week prior and received no response; expressed that many residents do not feel served by the board.
• Garrett Trumbly (Homestead Road): Argued the 16-minute public comment window was insufficient and called for structural reform of Board of Health emergency powers through town bylaws.
• Emily Deane (154 Atlantic Avenue): Small business owner requesting specific metrics that would trigger lifting the mandate and protocols for handling non-compliant customers.
• Kathy Christ (1 Gerald Road, owner of Get in Shape for Women): Stated her business is struggling and echoed the request for data-driven metrics to end the mandate.

Town counsel clarified after the adjournment vote that the board’s authority derives from G.L. c. 111 §31 (a statute, not a bylaw), which grants all boards of health in the Commonwealth authority to issue emergency orders during a health crisis.

Sandra Callahan (25 August Road) said a disclaimer added to the COVID dashboard on Monday indicated only confirmed PCR tests would be counted, excluding home antigen and self-reported positives. She asked whether the district was requiring PCR confirmation for antigen positives, what constitutes an official result, and why parents learned about high absenteeism from the local news rather than the superintendent. She noted other districts such as Lynnfield list both PCR and antigen results.

Jessica Benedetto (Bradley Road) raised the issue of school bus transportation as a necessity for essential workers facing unprecedented staff shortages, saying she had raised the topic for two years and wanted it included in budget discussions.

Elaine Leahy (Ida Road) thanked the district for a sustainability meeting held that day, noting composting at Veterans, new trash bags, and the work of Sustainable Marblehead.

The chair opened the meeting by describing the December 27 emergency session as having featured disrespectful conduct, and set ground rules for the December 29 session: 30-minute comment period, two minutes per speaker, cameras on, name and address required.

Speakers opposing the mandate included:

• A gym owner (26 Cedar Street) who said clients were canceling memberships because they cannot exercise while masked, and that businesses received no advance notice.
• A gym/fitness business owner (1 West Shore Drive, 118 Washington Street) who argued the board should work collectively with the town rather than act unilaterally.
• A resident originally from Russia who framed mandatory masking as a freedom-of-choice issue.
• A speaker citing a meta-analysis in Emerging Infectious Diseases and arguing that lay citizens are not trained in proper mask donning/doffing.
• A speaker who identified himself as having worked on the Human Genome Project, arguing that masks aerosolize large droplets and may increase rather than decrease transmission risk.
• A small business owner (154 Atlantic Avenue) who said businesses were given no notice, received no replies to letters sent since Monday, and had no funds to sustain operations through March 8 under a mandate without government support.
• A speaker who questioned the board’s scientific criteria, citing studies he said showed masks cause harm, and raised questions about PCR test accuracy and vaccine adverse-event data.

Speakers supporting the mandate included:

• A physician identifying himself as faculty at Yale School of Medicine and an employee at Pfizer in Cambridge (10 Warwick Terrace), who cited a large body of peer-reviewed literature supporting masking.
• A nurse practitioner and former contact tracer (8 Fort Sewell Lane) who framed masking as civic responsibility.
• A cardiologist at Salem Health Hospital of 40 years (Orchard Street) who said masks and immunization are among the few available tools against the virus.
• A former Board of Health colleague (Or Road) who noted that much of the community is too young to be vaccinated and that Omicron is highly transmissible even among vaccinated and boosted individuals.
• The owner of Marblehead Sports Shop (115 Elm Street) who said masking in his store had not been a significant issue and that keeping prevalence low to keep schools open was his priority.
• A resident (46 Pine Cliff Drive) who said she contracted COVID early in the pandemic and was ill for six months, and that two family members had recently died.

Several speakers noted that the December 27 meeting had been called as an emergency and that critics believed the board had violated open meeting law by not allowing public comment at that session.

The Marblehead Mental Health Task Force met the previous Monday and established new goals after completing its first two initiatives in November. Three speaker programs are planned:

1. Late January — Aimed at students and parents, aligned with the SOS suicide prevention program launching at Marblehead High School, featuring clinicians who work primarily with young people.
2. Late March / Early April — Focused on older residents and adult children of elderly parents, in partnership with the Council on Aging; planned as both a daytime and evening session.
3. TBD — Broader suicide prevention program potentially featuring a NAMI speaker and the NAN Project, an organization that has previously worked with the Marblehead Counseling Center and the high school.

Additional updates:

• Dr. Mark Labon of Salem State University, a panelist from November’s speaker event, previously built a coalition called Marblehead Cares focused on alcohol and substance abuse prevention; he will present at the December 20 meeting about reviving that effort.
• Social media platforms have been created; Kim Howard and Kim Leventhal are leading outreach.
• The task force is working with school counselor Dan Bauer on a potential student intern role.
• SPUR was identified as a potential partner for volunteer coordination.
• Weekly Thursday Zoom meetings continue to build out the task force website.

The chair opened the floor for public comment; no hands were raised. The board then confirmed upcoming meeting dates: December 14, January 11, February 1, and tentatively March 1 (March 15 was also discussed; March 8 was declined because one member would be away). April was deferred pending clarity on school vacation schedules. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

The health director read into the record a letter from resident Jimmy Zissen, who stated that three articles passed at the 2015 Town Meeting — including Article 34 for $5.75 million for a transfer station building — were approved as separate items and bonded as separate line items. Zissen asked for a public accounting of how those funds were spent and under what authority the use was changed.

The health director responded that, while articles were listed separately at town meeting, the override ballot combined the funds into one pool, and that the landfill closure (under a Mass DEP mandate) had to be completed before the transfer station could proceed. He also stated the board has never ruled out a new building.

During public comment, Zissen reiterated his position, noting the ballot language called out each article separately, and asked the board to identify when the change of course was decided, whether it was discussed at a public meeting, and where the $5.75 million was ultimately spent. He requested the board direct him to relevant meeting minutes.

A resident (identified as Jimmy) clarified for the board that the Brown School’s opening day would be October 13: October 11 is Indigenous People’s Day, October 12 is a teacher workshop day. He noted that a parent open house was planned for the following week and that a public open house was also anticipated, with significant community interest.

The committee voted 5–0 to reopen public comment following the schedule presentation. Speakers included:

• Erin Noonan expressed appreciation for Nan Murphy’s clarifications, supported the progressive educational philosophy behind the schedule, and emphasized the need for teacher professional development.
• Karen Murphy (30 Commercial Street) asked about early drop-off arrangements for kindergarteners at the Volk School (drop-off time of 8:15 a.m.) as a single parent; she said she had emailed four people without response. Dr. Bucky committed to a reply the following morning.
• Catherine Martin thanked Nan Murphy for codifying longstanding concerns, including the absence of a social studies curriculum, and called on all parents to attend budget meetings to advocate for proper funding.
• Ali Taylor requested information on the WIN program working group, praised the progressive approach to education, and supported the concept of an open community forum.

Committee member Sarah Gold used new business to formally request that at least one community open forum be scheduled by the end of September.

Multiple residents addressed the committee during the opening public comment period:

• Becky Suchu read a letter signed by many parents calling on the committee to reinstate morning recess and the former allied arts schedule, and to undertake a transparent community process before adopting the WIN program.
• Blair Nelson thanked the Board of Health for its thoughtful masking approach and encouraged vaccination.
• Ali Taylor requested an open community forum and echoed concerns about screen time during the WIN block, staffing adequacy, and the loss of a school nurse.
• Catherine Martin asked how the K–3 schedule changes fit into the district’s five-year strategic plan.
• Becca Whidden urged the committee to budget for allied arts and curriculum restoration when preparing the next year’s budget, and to plan for operating costs of the new Brown School.
• Lori Whalen questioned the effectiveness of mandatory masking and cited studies she said showed potential harms.
• Emily DeWitt raised concerns about how students with language-based learning disabilities on IEPs would be affected by masking.
• Kazzy Kindle (speaking on behalf of Dr. Jessica Benedetto) called for school bus priority for children without safe walking routes, citing state law requiring transportation for hazardous routes.
• Kevin Hayden asked for a documented plan for supporting students on IEPs under the new schedule.
• Erin Noonan praised student services specialist Meredith Wishart and asked parents to give the WIN schedule a fair hearing.

Jessica Shot (3 Oak Circle) addressed the committee about the proposed K-3 school schedule, which had eliminated morning recess. She outlined three reasons morning recess should remain: research showing K-3 students benefit from two daily recesses; the impact on special-needs children who require frequent sensory breaks; and the mental health benefits of socialization. She also noted that shortening the school day by 15 minutes amounts to 45 lost hours annually and suggested a rotating special-teacher coverage schedule as a solution.

Michelle, a public participant, asked what metrics or thresholds would lead the board to recommend indoor masking for all students or all individuals in public buildings regardless of vaccination status. The board indicated the current recommendations reflect Marblehead’s high vaccination rate and current DPH/DESE guidance. Triggers for revision would include rapidly rising cases or a significant increase in breakthrough cases. The health director added that hospitalizations are a key state metric.

Public comment drew extensive community input on the pending superintendent contract extension. Several speakers — including former school committee member Meredith Tedford and residents Catherine Martin, Dan Elbert, Kim Day, and John DuPiano — urged the committee not to extend the contract, citing the lack of performance data from a typical school year, concerns about conflict of interest, and the unusual nature of a five-year contract for a first-year superintendent.

Other residents — including Scott Solberg, Bree Stahlberg, Melissa Kaplawicz, Paul Baker, Mary McAriston, and Cindy Tower Lowing — expressed support for the extension, emphasizing the need for leadership stability, Dr. Bucky’s accomplishments during COVID-19, and the difficulty of recruiting a replacement given Marblehead’s reputation.

Kazzy Kindle and Kristin Pratt offered more neutral perspectives, noting the decision seemed driven by fear on both sides and questioning why the extension was being pursued before the superintendent had completed a typical school year.

Cindy Tower Lowen addressed the committee, expressing support for Megan Taylor’s re-election as vice chair and urging that the divisiveness of the prior year not continue. She asked for constructive dialogue without community “noise” or pitting factions against one another. She noted Marblehead schools fared well compared to Boston-area districts and expressed hope that planning tools (referencing “PFS”/Dr. Bucky’s planning work) would guide the committee’s budget decisions going forward.

In new business, Sarah Fox requested itemized invoices related to the ‘Back Together Marblehead’ website, including server costs and management questions, noting community members had contacted her about the topic.

In correspondence, the chair shared an invitation to join a Juneteenth flag-raising at Abbott Hall on June 18 at 5 p.m., organized by the town with participation by the Board of Selectmen and Superintendent Dr. Bucky.

During the second public comment period, Gene Schona sought clarification on polystyrene. Superintendent Dr. Bucky confirmed the operational goal is to have no polystyrene trays in any school by fall 2021; the food service director is currently costing out alternatives.

The meeting adjourned at 9:18 p.m.

Jonathan Letterman asked whether the committee plans to continue allowing remote public participation after COVID-era open meeting rules expire. The chair indicated the district would work with MHTV over the summer to maximize accessibility.

A resident named Gene (Schona) praised Zasky and highlighted the organic garden project she supported at the Bell School. She also urged the committee to commit to eliminating polystyrene from all school cafeterias, noting that in 2014 the town passed an article banning polystyrene from businesses but the schools received an exemption. She stated polystyrene is carcinogenic and volunteered to help the transition.

Scott Solberg offered additional thanks to Zasky and previewed Dr. Eric Oxford’s upcoming presentation on student services improvements.

Health Director Petty invited public participation from Sandra, Pam, and John. No substantive comments were offered. Gottlieb made the motion to adjourn, which passed unanimously with all three board members voting in favor.

Through a grant via MAPC, Marblehead joined a 10-community North Shore vaccination outreach effort. As of June 3rd, 59% of residents across the participating communities were fully vaccinated. Volunteers are visiting Marblehead businesses to solicit participation; confirmed participants include Blue Canoe, Terry’s Ice Cream, Marblehead Pediatrics, CVS, Starbucks, National Grand Bank, and others. The campaign encourages masking for unvaccinated individuals and allows businesses to offer discounts to vaccinated customers.

The board also discussed updated summer camp COVID guidance: fully vaccinated staff do not need to wear masks or socially distance; unvaccinated individuals must maintain 3-foot indoor distancing. Four camps are expected to operate in Marblehead this summer. Updated state guidelines no longer classify outdoor close contacts as COVID exposures regardless of vaccination status.

Health Director Petty reported no new COVID cases since May 25th. As of the meeting date, 68% of Marblehead residents were fully vaccinated and just over 14% had received one dose, putting approximately 82% on track to be fully vaccinated. Petty stated he would continue the weekly COVID report in a pared-down format to help residents with unvaccinated family members make informed decisions.

Ann Simco (77 Garfield St.): As incoming MGSS co-leader, she offered to help fundraise for compostable trays. She also noted current individually-packaged lunch bags create more plastic waste than the styrofoam trays they replaced.

Katherine Martin (29 West Shore Drive): Congratulated Leanne Fairbanks and Donna Zasky on retirement. Requested a high-level look-ahead — graphically presented — showing the planning-for-success timetable, how it links to the strategic plan, and how budget tie-ins will be developed before next budget season.

Jess Benedetto: Thanked the committee for signaling support for expanded busing but asked for an actual motion committing the district to fund hazard busing for students without safe walking routes. She noted the policy subcommittee discussed revising the busing policy in September but no progress was visible, and questioned whether the pilot fully addressed which students would be eligible.

Scott Solberg (by phone): Praised Dr. Bucky’s first year, welcomed Deandra Williams, and echoed support for planning-for-success work.

Abby Brack Lewis (4 Park Lane, Bell/Coffin PTO co-president): Clarified that the $18,000-plus fun run proceeds will be voted as a gift to the new Brown School at the PTO meeting June 8 at 7 pm (bellcoffinpto.org).

Deandra Williams: Offered research-informed suggestions for the SEL survey: anonymous surveys yield higher response rates; demographic data collection allows cross-referencing with academic achievement data to identify the most vulnerable student populations.

Cindy Tower Lowen thanked Dr. Bucky for his leadership on social and racial justice, calling it meaningful to the community. Paul Baker thanked the full school committee for their volunteer service during an exceptionally difficult year and noted that current and former members stepping up for election was impressive.

Three residents spoke during the second public comment period:

• Erin Noonan (15 Beverly Ave) expressed disappointment that the Brown School may not open polystyrene-free, saying the district risks paying lip service to sustainability.
• Scott Solberg (1 Ramsey Road) praised the Planning for Success kickoff and called for better public communication about the phased strategic process; also commended Dr. Oxford’s (head of student services) presentation to CPAC as visionary.
• Jeanne Skona (16 Foster St, Sustainable Marblehead education working group) urged the district to honor requests discussed two years ago with the building committee: refill water stations, composting in the cafeteria, and expanded recycling. She expressed excitement that Sarah Fox had reached out to Sustainable Marblehead and MHS Green School Society students for the Planning for Success process.
• Catherine Martin (29 West Shore Dr, building committee member) confirmed that building committee minutes would show a commitment to open the school polystyrene-free and urged the district to fund it operationally.

Catherine Martin (29 West Shore Drive) expressed support for the district’s new Planning for Success initiative but asked for a public presentation outlining the timeline—from data collection through fall curriculum alignment and budget allocation—so the district does not repeat the pattern of collecting data that ‘sits on a shelf.’ A second commenter, Sarah (a committee member), raised a concern about a campaign shirt visible on camera constituting a potential campaign finance issue, and the individual agreed to remove it.

Three residents addressed the committee:

• Emily Dewitt, 154 Atlantic Avenue: Expressed appreciation for the vote unmasking students at recess and athletic play but asked about the status of outdoor lunch distancing and called for clearer leadership communication.
• Unnamed resident (music teacher context): Asked how quickly the committee could act if DESE updated its singing guidance, noting only 18 days remained with students. The chair committed to calling her first if guidance changed. The chair also noted the choir/singing 10-foot distancing language had been struck from the policy.
• Andrew Kramer, 7 Clifton Avenue: Asked whether spectators at outdoor school events would need to mask; the chair confirmed that under the “during school hours” language, weekend games would not require adult masking.

A second public comment period was opened by a 5-0 vote after the main policy motion passed.

Resident Sandra Callahan (self-identified pediatrician) offered two comments:

1. Meeting times: She expressed support for retaining a 7:00 p.m. start, noting Zoom access has enabled more public participation and that six o’clock conflicts with dinner and commuting.

2. Vaccination update: As of April 23 data reported at a May 4 Board of Health meeting, 82 Marblehead residents aged 16–19 were fully vaccinated and 261 had received a first dose. She noted her practice has been a COVID vaccine site since January, currently offering walk-in Moderna appointments open to non-patients, and encouraged the committee to help distribute information about upcoming clinics for the newly eligible 12–15 age group.

The chair opened public comment at approximately 7:17 PM. No members of the public raised their hands, and the meeting moved on to the superintendent’s report.

Scott Solberg (1 Ramsay Road) spoke during public comment, describing three ways he had worked with Matt Fox: as a parent of a child with special needs entering the middle school, on the SEL committee, and on the reopening committee. He called Fox’s calmness and professionalism consistently remarkable.

Before opening public comment, Chair Sarah Gold addressed a photo she had posted on personal social media depicting herself, other school committee members, and the superintendent sharing a toast after completing the budget process. Some community members characterized this as insensitive given that the budget required position reductions.

Gold issued an apology, stating she regretted the photo and the optics, while clarifying:

1. The gathering was not an open meeting violation — elected officials may socialize as long as they do not deliberate school business, which she stated they did not do.
2. Some individuals were falsely identified in a modified version of the photo circulated on social media.
3. The budget did not result in nine teachers losing their jobs, as some had claimed; the committee worked to maintain positions and place employees in other openings.
4. She had contacted the Attorney General’s office and left a message awaiting a return call.

During public comment:

• Sandra Callahan (pediatric nurse specialist) expressed concern about the elimination of a school nurse position (Amanda Rivers) during a pandemic, arguing the position should be funded with COVID relief funds through 2022-23 and then reevaluated.
• Catherine Martin said many community members were afraid to speak at meetings, questioned the budget process, and urged the committee to advocate more strongly for school funding.
• Jen Schaffner thanked Gold for her apology and raised the broader issue of what she characterized as chronic underfunding of schools over 14 years of level-funded budgets.
• Member Sarah Fox (remote) provided context on the AG’s open meeting law process, noting a formal determination requires a written complaint, review by the full board, and potential state-level review; she commended Gold for addressing the matter publicly.

After the committee voted unanimously to allow a second public comment period, parent Aaron Noonan spoke. As a lunch-duty volunteer at the Village School, he praised Principal Murphy and other staff for rapidly adjusting logistics from day to day during the first week of in-person return. He noted that improvements observed on Monday were implemented by Tuesday, and encouraged continued progress toward a normal recess experience for students.

The chair called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. and invited public comment. No members of the public raised their hands, so the committee moved immediately to the next agenda item.

Two community members offered public comment:

Scott Solberg (Ramsay Road): Praised the morning’s school reopening committee session, noting enthusiasm from principals and staff ahead of Monday’s return. He thanked CFO Michelle Cresta for her clear budget communication and expressed excitement about high school students leading an upcoming SEO (student engagement/outreach) conversation with the community, facilitated by Gina Hart.

Cindy (Tower Lowen): Thanked the school committee for their work over several difficult years, acknowledged the district’s efforts on curriculum and racial justice, and expressed enthusiasm about the new school’s exterior signage revealed during the meeting. She requested a copy of the building photo to share on the Marblehead Racial Justice Team Facebook page.

Kazzy Kendall (163 Jersey Street): Asked how consolidation-related staffing reductions (nurse, allied arts teacher, secretary, classroom teachers) differ from cuts; expressed concern about reliance on PTO funding for operational needs and use of ESSER funds for a math curriculum identified as a need before COVID.

Colleen Renee Nile (3 Bowdoin Street): Asked how the 12 budget priorities align with long-range strategic planning; questioned how level-funding goals advance district excellence; asked what the balanced budget means in 1, 5, and 10 years.

Catherine Martin (29 West Shore Drive): Raised procedural concern about budget documents not being posted 48 hours in advance per state law. Asked whether the new Brown School would have a vice principal (answer: no) and how many special education teachers were being added (answer: two pre-K classrooms fall under the SPED umbrella; equity and parity across both K–3 buildings was confirmed). Asked about multi-year funding for the math curriculum and $212,000 technology ask. A school committee member noted an override was likely being pursued next year.

Paul Baker (79 Overlook Road): Expressed appreciation for the work of Dr. Bucky, the school committee, and Finance Committee; described the budget process as improved and the balanced result as a positive outcome.

Ann (Garfield Street, 16-year-old MHS student): Expressed concern about allied arts teacher reductions; noted the CAD teacher is teaching painting; asked for more emphasis on arts. Dr. Bucky and Mr. Bauer noted the reduction was enrollment-driven and confirmed advocacy for the arts.

Alastair Connor (9 Claptman’s Lane): Asked about the district’s plan to address learning loss and avoid a spike in IEPs. Nan Murphy described summer intervention plans, YMCA partnership, and student support services planning. Dr. Bucky noted SOA funds are being used for assessments.

Jenny Armini (Russell Street): Asked whether the state had approved use of COVID relief funds for the math curriculum. Dr. Bucky confirmed vetting through school superintendents association and the North Shore roundtable, noting the federal government has given wide latitude.

Alexis (22 Forever Street, approximate): Emphasized importance of incorporating historical PTO funding data into the strategic plan; noted PTOs are funding operational infrastructure (smart boards, wi-fi, security doors, furniture) rather than enrichments. Dr. Bucky acknowledged the issue and invited her to meet at the central office.

Sandra Callahan (25 August App, approximate): A pediatric nurse, raised three concerns: (1) one nurse for 450+ students is insufficient given COVID contact-tracing workload; (2) guidance services were inadequate before COVID and are more so now; (3) enrollment loss may not fully recover and the budget should anticipate that. She praised the district for conducting Zoom meetings. The school committee noted pool testing is state-funded through end of year and that Dr. Bucky has surveyed unenrolled students about returning.

Julie Duggan (18 Dodge Road, PCO co-president at MHS): Clarified that the MHS PCO is not currently fundraising for smart boards; the PCO recently approved funding for six smart boards (two from an anonymous donor).

School Committee discussion: Members David, Megan, Emily, and Sarah offered closing remarks. Sarah raised substantive concerns about use of one-time ESSER funds for recurring three-year costs (math curriculum, technology), declining enrollment projections (23% drop over 9 years per NESDEC), the Brown School being built for 450 students with enrollment trending down, and the need to identify funding sources for the telephone system upgrade. She also noted no dedicated STEM teacher was added — classroom teachers will have access to the STEM space and supplies. Dr. Bucky clarified the STEM space is outfitted with supplies but no separate teacher has been hired.

Catherine Martin, 29 West Shore Drive returned during the second public comment period to urge the committee not to proceed Thursday with a budget hearing while a $331K gap remains unresolved. She argued that public hearing norms — as seen in Planning Board, ZBA, and Conservation Commission hearings — involve back-and-forth interaction, not a collect-and-answer format, and that going into the hearing without a final number risks boxing the committee in if the town does not close the gap.

Three residents spoke during opening public comment:

• Catherine Martin, 29 West Shore Drive questioned when school committee liaisons were informed the town would provide only level funding, why the budget delta dropped from $800K to $300K without a public meeting, and asked for a tracking sheet to be presented that evening.
• Kim Day, 18 Liberty Road echoed Martin’s concerns, noted that a $331K gap was shared at the morning joint meeting, said a prior priority — a high school academic skills position — had disappeared from the list, and asked the community to understand the trade-offs.
• Erin Noonan, Beverly Ave expressed frustration that needs-based budgeting was again deferred, asked for agenda items on learning loss and remediation, and questioned how pandemic-related state money for remediation would be spent.

The chair opened a public participation agenda item and allowed a brief period for comment. No members of the public raised their hands to speak. A motion to adjourn was made, seconded, and approved unanimously.

Aaron (resident): Thanked the committee for split public comment; asked that a future agenda item address learning loss and social-emotional needs district-wide, informed by existing assessment data (AIMS Web and teacher assessments), to guide spending of upcoming federal relief funds including any summer learning programs.

Katherine Martin (29 West Shore Drive): Clarified that a facilities committee’s role is to review the annual facilities plan, capital outlays, and long-term needs—not to address operational items like PPE or extra desks. She expressed hope the recently completed facilities assessment would be available before the budget hearing so long-term facility needs could be funded.

Jennifer Brennan (resident): Raised concern that with three-foot distancing at the high school, the quarantine radius expands significantly for students who change classes each period. She noted that students whose teachers are not willing to stream live instruction could lose up to 14 days of education through no fault of their own, and called this an educational equity issue. She asked that the district communicate a clearer plan for quarantined high school students—noting juniors and seniors face AP exams—before the April 5 return.

Superintendent Bucky responded that the topic came up at the morning reopening meeting; the high school principal is working with faculty, and the quarantine timeline is shorter than many assume (direct contacts who test negative at day 5 can return at day 8). He agreed the plan and timeline should be communicated clearly to families.

Katherine Martin noted the meeting packet was not posted until 6:58 p.m., making it difficult for engaged residents to review materials in advance. She also stated that when a budget spreadsheet was shown at a prior subcommittee meeting, residents were told they could not have a copy, which she argued was incorrect once it had been shared in a public meeting.

Martin called for transparency about COVID spending—specifically disclosing how funds such as an approximately $450,000 allocation have been earmarked—before the district asks parents to contribute to fundraising campaigns tied to school reopening costs.

Emily Barron said she was offended by remarks she understood to suggest students didn’t want to return to school, arguing teenagers expressing pandemic fatigue should not drive policy. She said the community is ready for a safe transition back and asked for a committee voice specifically championing older students.

Cathy Kendall (163 Jersey St.) asked why the district was waiting for DESE to announce a high school full-return date when that announcement was expected, arguing the district could proactively set its own two-week notice. The superintendent clarified that the district is actually ahead of DESE guidance on all levels — grades 7–12 will be in half-days April 5 and full days April 26 — which satisfied Kendall’s concern.

The superintendent noted the Board of Health asked her to publicize the new Marblehead COVID Mental Health Task Force, chaired by Michelle Gottlieb. The task force deliberately has no set end date, reflecting the expectation that mental health impacts will outlast the pandemic itself.

Separately, the district is actively recruiting community volunteers to support in-person school days. Volunteers who will be alone with children must be fingerprinted through Identico using a district-specific code. Interested volunteers should email proof of their fingerprint appointment to corey@marbleheadschools.org. Information is available on the district website.

Working backwards from a planned April 12 presentation to FinCom (to be confirmed Tuesday), the committee would hold the public hearing on April 1 (an already-scheduled school committee meeting), vote on the budget on April 8, and add a school committee working meeting on either March 24 or March 30. The superintendent noted the school committee is not required to vote before FinCom votes, and that if time is tight she would rather ‘get it right’ even if the vote comes after FinCom.

Erin Noonan (15 Beverly Ave) expressed disappointment that a new K–8 math curriculum — described as the first student-facing item to be cut in the next year’s budget — was at risk. She noted the current 2016-era curriculum is outdated, language-based, and difficult for students with language-based disabilities. She said a working group had selected a new program that was already being piloted, and argued that cutting it while adding an HR back-office position was the wrong priority. She called on the school committee to advocate more forcefully for adequate school funding, noting that public education in Marblehead had been essentially level-funded for 17 years.

Rhys Stahlberg (Fieldwork Road) thanked Amanda Rivers for the pool-testing program, sharing a lighthearted story about her anxious third-grader having a smooth testing experience.

Kim Day (18 Liberty Road) said the morning’s budget subcommittee meeting was difficult to follow because materials were not shared publicly and no specific numbers were discussed. She encouraged the committee to share more information so the community could understand what was being considered and offer support if needed.

Kim Day (18 Liberty Road) thanked the committee and school nurse Amanda Rivers for launching pool testing; her third- and sixth-graders participated in the first week without disrupting class time. She urged the committee to make pool testing mandatory for athletes, noting that athletes compete at close distances with students from other towns and then share classrooms with non-athletes.

Jennifer Eaton (CPAC) announced a CPAC conference on March 9 at 7 p.m. featuring Dr. Zach Rossetti of Boston University on peer relationships and inclusion for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Scott Silberg (1 Ramsay Road) praised the chair’s opening statement and acknowledged parents volunteering on reopening committees and the social-emotional learning work underway in the district.

Aleister Connor (9 Cloutman’s Lane) urged the committee to learn from past budget shortfalls, fund the stabilization fund, and allocate the approximately $400,000 in COVID grant funds toward pandemic-related needs rather than balancing the operating budget.

Emily DeWitt (154 Atlantic Avenue) asked the committee to plan for classroom coverage during teacher vaccination appointments and suggested that trained parents, parents who can volunteer quickly, or senior students might fill gaps.

The chair opened the meeting with a personal statement invoking Jewish mourning traditions as a framework for collective reflection on the pandemic’s first anniversary. She acknowledged community pain, noted that recent public feedback had become unusually heated, and asked that residents remember that all parties — school committee, teachers, and parents — share the same goal of returning children to normal school life. She asked for a moment of silence.

The committee voted 5-0 to add a second public comment period. Speakers included:

• Kelly Salowitz: Criticized the timing of the 7-12 plan as too late for seniors; called for longer school days and expressed frustration with the six-foot distancing requirement
• Mary McCarrick: Offered positive feedback about her child’s remote learning experience and thanked teachers Mrs. Bergeron and Mrs. Clean
• Jeff St. George: Criticized what he characterized as a pattern of discouraging public comment and limiting speaking time; urged the committee to fully own its public obligations
• Aaron Noonan: Respectfully disagreed with the criticism of the split public comment format; advocated strongly for pool testing enrollment, stating she changed from skeptical to supportive after researching the program
• Scott Solberg: Thanked committee members and Superintendent Buckey; acknowledged the difficulty of the year for all parties; expressed hope for continued constructive dialogue
• Alistair Connor: Thanked K-6 families but urged the committee to find more learning time for grades 7-12; expressed frustration at the slow pace of technology improvements
• Farah Wolfson (middle school teacher): Acknowledged resilience of students; urged perspective and noted many voices not represented at the meeting; suggested COVID grant funds be directed to service learning
• Amy Whipple: Thanked high school and middle school teachers; raised concern about the proposed 7-12 hybrid schedule’s impact on working families; questioned the $42,000 community liaison position relative to other priorities
• Jody Kerbel: Offered a parent/teacher dual perspective; noted schedule change concerns for her 11th-grade daughter; expressed appreciation for teachers
• Kate Simcoe (11th-grade student): Thanked teachers and asked the committee to explore the three-foot distancing option to facilitate more in-person school time

Chair Gold clarified the split public comment format was her suggestion, made to allow the public to hear key updates before commenting.

Student representative Dan Howells discussed COVID-disrupted sports scheduling, ongoing course selection, and a senior class Family Feud fundraiser event. He also described the senior project internship program.

During public comment, residents urged the committee to act on approximately $450,000 in COVID relief grants for immediate student needs including outdoor classrooms and PPE. A physician (Dr. Jess Benedetto-Bradley) outlined hospital-based safety protocols adaptable to schools and called for a move to full days. Alexia Kearney read a community letter signed by many residents citing student mental health concerns and learning loss. An ICU nurse (Jennifer Eaton) shared her seventh-grade daughter Megan’s experience; Megan then spoke directly, describing the difficulty of remote Wednesdays and ADHD-related challenges.

The chair limited the first public comment block to 15 minutes and deferred additional speakers (Kelly Salowitz, Emily Dewitt, Mary McCarrick, Jeff St. George) to a second comment period at the end of the meeting.

Public comments reflected a range of views:

In favor of faster/fuller return:

• Patrick Noonan criticized the committee for pushing the timeline from March 1/8 to March 15 without a request from administrators
• Blair (unnamed parent) argued lunch logistics are solvable and parents will volunteer; called for full days
• Emily DeWitt and Lauren Andriano raised concerns about the 7–12 timeline stretching to April
• Scott Solberg acknowledged the complexity while urging a compromise between March 1 and April 1
• Seniors Alexandra Colonette, Theo Shemel, and Anne Simcoe (sophomore) all spoke; Simcoe and Shemel questioned the necessity of six-foot distancing and expressed frustration at the pace
• High school senior Ruby (last name unclear) thanked principals for keeping students central

Urging caution or raising nuanced concerns:

• Susan Shiowitz (mental health clinician) noted that in-person school is not automatically the cure for adolescent mental health struggles and asked that fully remote students’ needs not be overlooked
• Joan Miller (MEA president) spoke on behalf of teachers, affirming commitment to a safe return while cautioning that older students transmit the virus as adults do
• Kristen Zeros (kindergarten teacher) expressed concern about having 20 kids in her room without six-foot distancing
• Lauren Andriano raised the inconsistency between sports protocols and classroom distancing rules
• Kristin Pratt suggested polling/Q&A tools to improve public engagement and offered to organize parent volunteers for lunch supervision

A lengthy public comment period covered several themes:

Mental health services: Multiple residents reported that local therapists are overwhelmed—one therapist described going from 4–5 referrals per month to 4–5 per day. Residents asked the board to consider a subcommittee or community-wide task force to triage mental health needs. The board acknowledged the demand but noted its staff of roughly 3.5 employees and constraints on inter-meeting collaboration under open meeting law. The board agreed to ask the Town Administrator to contact the Marblehead Counseling Center director and to raise the idea at a department heads meeting.

Teacher vaccination: A resident asked whether the board could partner with the school department to prioritize teacher vaccination, citing a Newburyport model. The health director explained that educators fall in a large Phase 2 group and that administering vaccines outside the state-mandated order risks loss of vaccine supply—citing instances where jurisdictions lost access.

Board advisory role: Residents questioned the board’s influence on the reopening committee and whether its six-foot guidance had changed. The health director and chair clarified the board has not formally changed its six-foot recommendation; one member had expressed personal views. The board’s representation on the school reopening committee was described as primarily a listening and reporting function.

Pool testing: Residents asked for clarification on pool testing described in a communication from the superintendent. Board members stated pool testing is entirely a DESE and school department initiative outside the Board of Health’s jurisdiction. A school committee member noted it was on the school committee agenda for Thursday at 5 p.m.

Variants: Residents asked the board’s position on new COVID-19 variants. Board members expressed personal concern but noted no formal board vote had been taken; one member stated she would not represent a personal position on the reopening committee without a board vote.

The chair stated that the board’s role is advisory and that the School Committee’s decision from the prior Thursday was not the forum for the Board of Health to revisit. A board member then requested time to share thoughts on the distancing guidance, which the chair permitted before the formal COVID update.

Supporters of the Lucretia and Joseph Brown name included:

• Henry Turner (multiracial Marblehead family of 11 years, history teacher/administrator), who cited the racial trauma experienced by students of color and said “representation matters.”
• Melanie Lloyd, reading a statement from the Marblehead Racial Justice Team, called the name “vital” and noted the Browns overcame discrimination to thrive as entrepreneurs.
• Sherry Gagné (Métis/Mohawk/Abenaki/Algonquin/Choctaw resident) supported honoring Joseph Brown as a Wampanoag figure.
• Cindy Tower Lowen (racial justice activist, resident since 2003) urged the committee to name the school and commit to systemic anti-racist curriculum.
• Leah Bockenkamp supported the name and called for a commitment to education on systemic racism beyond the name itself.
• Natalie Bellai (former Malcolm Bell School parent, history teacher) discussed Marblehead’s role as home to the first slave ship Desire, arguing for complete historical honesty.

The chair split public comment into two rounds: general topics first, then school naming. General comments focused overwhelmingly on student and family mental health during the pandemic.

Key themes:

• Multiple parents requested reduction of classroom distancing from 6 to 3 feet, citing CDC and DESE guidance.
• A parent (Alexia) introduced her son Niall, a junior in full remote, who spoke emotionally about the mental health toll on himself and classmates, stating monthly check-ins feel like “checking a box.”
• Residents Catherine Martin and others called for pool testing, adequate school budgets, and community volunteering.
• A Board of Health member (Michelle) clarified the BOH’s advisory role, provided the Medical Reserve Corps link for volunteers, and noted the board is balancing mental health with virus transmission concerns.
• Resident Jonathan Letterman criticized the committee for opaque processes and suggested putting the school name to a town ballot.
• Virginia Brown described a student whose grades collapsed in hybrid learning after previously earning B’s.

During the public comment period several residents raised interrelated concerns:

Mental health: Resident Alexia Kearney asked whether the town was tracking increases in domestic violence, suicide attempts, and youth mental health impacts, and whether schools were surveying students. Resident Erin noted that the Marblehead Counseling Center is approximately six months out for new appointments and that referrals there may not meet actual community need. Resident Emily described her children struggling and noted that youth sports activities appeared to violate the same six-foot rule applied in schools.

Six-foot vs. three-foot distancing: Resident Erin challenged whether the board’s recommendation of six-foot distancing in schools—which differs from the state DESI’s three-foot guidance—was based on independent analysis or August CDC guidance, and asked the board to consider age-differentiated standards for elementary vs. high school students. Board members defended the six-foot standard as working, while acknowledging the mental health cost of reduced in-person attendance.

Board member Helene noted the board has met every week since the pandemic began and consistently accepts public comment. The board agreed to revisit the distancing discussion more fully the following week, and the health director said he would reach out to police and hospitals about tracking mental health metrics.

Resident Katie Martin asked for clarification on the discrepancy between the 41-student school figure and the weekly 0–19 age group numbers. The health director explained the state’s community-wide age data covers all residents in that bracket, including those not in public schools, while the school nurse’s figure covers only students with potential in-school transmission since September 14.

The school nurse (Deanna) confirmed the Marblehead Public Schools numbers: 42 positive students, 22 positive staff, and 4 remote students since September 14, with no confirmed school-based transmission.

Resident Sandra asked about the 100-dose figure and how comorbidity attestations would be verified; the director confirmed reliance on self-attestation with the exception of blood-thinners, which require a physician note.

Resident Sarah asked how second-dose slots would be protected as Phase 2 opens; the director explained the state tracks first-dose recipients and will hold allocations for second doses, potentially running closed clinics for second-dose-only appointments on some days.

Resident Elizabeth Eisner asked that MRC volunteer sign-up links be made more prominent on the town website and Facebook page. A board member agreed to post links to the Medical Reserve Corps and Mass Responds websites on the Board of Health Facebook page.

Resident Jody noted that a COVID information banner on the town homepage already links to volunteer resources.

School Calendar / Jewish Holidays

Several residents spoke about comments made at the prior school committee meeting suggesting a review of days off at the beginning of the school year that align with Jewish holidays (Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur):

• Rhonda Gilberg (25-year resident, lawyer, professor, ADL North Shore Advisory Chair) said the Jewish community was offended by the suggestion to revisit those days off, and emphasized the importance of the effect of words regardless of intent.
• Helene Hazlett (co-chair, Marblehead Task Force Against Discrimination) stated that during the current climate of racism and antisemitism it is not the right time to revisit the calendar. She noted the school committee cannot tell families how many days to observe their religion, and that Marblehead has for decades closed for both days of Rosh Hashanah and one day of Yom Kippur.
• Kathy Kendall offered a contrasting view, saying her family practices a religion not on the school calendar and that public schools should not reflect private religions. She argued the only equitable solution would be to recognize every religion, which she said is not practical.
• Patrick Noonan said many districts have moved to excused-absence policies rather than school closures and called on the committee to address the issue rather than “punt it down the road.”
• Melissa Kaplowicz said her children face antisemitic symbols at school and called removal of Jewish holidays from the calendar harmful.

COVID Pool Testing

• Kate Thompson presented research on asymptomatic/pre-symptomatic COVID transmission and urged the committee to recognize pool testing as a community-wide mitigation strategy, not just a school issue. She referenced the state DESE pool testing program, acknowledged challenges, and asked the committee to remain open to innovation.
• Kimberly Platavin echoed those sentiments, noting a letter with 90 signatures was sent to the school committee and board of health, and cited examples of other schools successfully implementing pool testing through fundraising and volunteers.

The chair entertained a motion to hold a second public comment period at the close of the meeting. The motion carried 5-0. One resident (‘Cassie’/’Kelly’) briefly thanked Sarah Fox for suggesting community forums and expressed amazement at the pace of the new school construction. No other hands were raised. The chair adjourned the meeting at 10:42 p.m., noting it was the longest meeting on record.

Sarah Fox proposed reinstating community open-forum events that had been held before district leadership turnover — events she described as well-attended and respectful, with themed sessions (e.g., one focused on special education). She noted the committee is the only Marblehead board that does not respond to public comment during meetings, contrasting it with the Select Board chair’s practice of answering questions during public comment.

The chair acknowledged the idea was worthwhile but said the meeting (running past 10:30 p.m.) was not the right moment for the discussion. The chair suggested placing it on a future agenda, potentially asking the MASC representative to advise on best practices, and noted that improving meeting efficiency would be a prerequisite to adding public engagement time.

Resident Cassie Kindle requested a second public comment opportunity at the end of the meeting so parents and community members could respond to agenda items while discussion was fresh. The chair noted the request and said she could bring it to a motion at the end of the meeting.

Public and board discussion covered several topics:

Data discrepancies (Sandra Callahan): The state pulls Maven data on Wednesday mornings while Marblehead pulls on Thursdays; timing differences explain why state and local counts diverge. The health department ‘cleans’ data to remove duplicates and out-of-town residents.

Contact tracing capacity: Andrew confirmed the state CTC has approximately 1,800 workers handling ~5,000 cases per day statewide. Calls come from an 866 number; messages are left if no answer, but callbacks are not made. Residents are urged to answer unfamiliar numbers. Cases are sometimes pushed to the CTC when local capacity is exceeded.

Data visualization initiative: A board member (Michelle) reported the department is seeking a volunteer health informatics student from Northeastern or similar institution to develop data visualizations for public reporting — no patient-identified data would be shared.

Testing outlook (Erin): Andrew confirmed testing through Cataldo was limited to four sessions by both funding deadlines and vendor availability. Future testing depends on resolution of CARES Act funding. The governor has characterized Massachusetts as the highest-testing state per capita.

Mask up for Marblehead: Board members reminded attendees of a Marblehead Reporter story being assembled by ‘Jodi’ seeking photos and statements from residents explaining why they wear masks.

Jennifer Eaton (126 West Shore Drive), a nurse, addressed the committee about the decision to go remote for the week before winter break. She noted that the three drivers cited by the superintendent — virus presence, operational strain, and community threshold — had not yet reached critical levels, and that her daughter with an IEP would have services disrupted. She referenced Harvard researcher Joseph Allen’s work on school safety and urged the committee to maintain in-person learning where possible.

Board members acknowledged resident Jody Smith for her written suggestions and offer to assist the board with community communications, including letters to the editor and articles promoting safe behavior.

During public comment, Sondra Callahan (a healthcare provider) described a two-hour wait at her 8 a.m. Friday testing appointment and asked whether scheduling issues had been corrected; the Health Director confirmed Friday’s session ran more smoothly. She also asked why teachers were offered N95 masks; a school official explained it was a precautionary measure given that some special-needs students have mask exemptions and require close physical support.

Resident Sarah asked about Cataldo’s test turnaround time (12–48 hours) and whether a positivity rate had been calculated from the town-run sessions; the Health Director noted results flow directly from the Broad Institute into the Maven system. Resident Pam reported she had not yet been rescheduled after being turned away Friday and was advised to contact Cataldo directly for a rescheduled or home-visit option.

A resident (identified as having a PR background) reported on outreach she had conducted:

• Contacted the Chief of Police: the department currently has no dedicated COVID point-of-contact, no community outreach officer, and had not yet conducted spot patrols on rail trails. The Chief indicated willingness to work with the board but preferred non-enforcement approaches. The fine for not wearing a mask off private property in Massachusetts is $300.
• Contacted Marblehead Reporter editor Chris Stevens, who expressed openness to running Board of Health stories and letters to the editor.
• Proposed a media campaign (e.g., “I Wear My Mask” photo submissions) to increase peer-driven voluntary compliance.
• Offered to assist the board on an ad hoc basis with community communications.

Michelle separately raised community concerns about tweens and young teens playing basketball and other contact sports in town parks without masks, and suggested additional messaging through the schools.

The chair opened the floor for public comment and received none. The committee then voted 4-0 to approve the minutes from the September 17, 2020 meeting.

Several residents spoke during the public comment period:

• Jodi Smith asked about mask compliance enforcement and fines, and suggested police presence at high-traffic outdoor areas like rail trails. Board members discussed the possibility of coordinated sign-posting with police presence as a community signal.

• Zazie Kindle (163 Jersey Street) asked whether the six-foot distancing requirement in schools could be eased to allow more in-person hours, noting that no school transmission had been identified. The board and Helene responded that the six-foot standard was being maintained statewide and was the consensus of the health and safety committee.

• Dawn (identified as working in a special-needs classroom) raised concerns about lack of information and inability to maintain six-foot distancing with students who have special needs. Members directed her to raise these concerns with the school department and superintendent.

• Susie (high school student or parent) raised concerns about contact notification when a classmate tests positive, and about pressure on students to attend school despite symptoms. Andrew clarified that close contacts (cumulative 15 minutes within six feet over 24 hours) receive direct notification, but that HIPAA constraints limit broader classroom-level notification.

• Sandra (described as a healthcare provider and parent) asked about the timeline for local testing sites and the Abbott test rollout, noting that Quest PCR turnaround times were running five to ten days.

• Jean Lamkin (19 Devereux Street) suggested community-level notification analogous to lice notices (without identifying individuals), and offered to volunteer for sign-posting and community support networks.

Elmer Magana, who teaches Spanish and coaches varsity soccer at MHS, described challenges his wife observed while teaching at Manchester-Essex, which went fully remote and piloted live-streaming. Issues included difficulty filtering background noise, the teacher being unable to move freely, delays of five to eight minutes in seeing student questions in Zoom, and the need for all in-room students to also be on Zoom.

He expressed concern about divided attention between in-person and remote students, and suggested Marblehead set up a prototype classroom and conduct a pilot before making any district-wide decision.

Public comment ran nearly 25 minutes and focused almost entirely on synchronous learning at Marblehead High School.

Jenny Armini (8 Russell Street) submitted a petition on behalf of 375 verified signatories — MHS parents, students, and residents — requesting the committee support an aggressive investigation of synchronous technology. She cited the two-cohort model limiting students to at most 16.7 hours of teacher-led learning per week, below state standards.

Susan Kuhl (406 Atlantic Ave) reported 490 petition signatures as of 5:30 p.m. that day and noted 255 students had left Marblehead Public Schools in the prior academic year for private schools or homeschooling. She pointed to OWL camera systems as a practical entry point.

Alastair Connor (9 Cloutmans Lane) supported synchronous learning but asked the committee to differentiate age-group needs, noting younger students benefit most from in-person time.

Megan Sweeney (23 Beacon Street) described her senior daughter, who cannot attend in-person due to health conditions, receiving approximately 7 hours of teacher time per week and enrolled in two AP courses including AP Chemistry with labs expected to be done at home.

Alexis Earp (41 West Shore Drive), a junior in the remote cohort on Edgenuity, reported having only 50 minutes of MHS teacher instruction on the day of the meeting and said remote students feel their education has been outsourced.

Cheryl Raisin (6 Lindsay Street) questioned why technology investigation had not begun earlier given the likelihood of extended remote periods.

A separate public commenter, Catherine Martin (29 West Shore Drive), and Kathy raised procedural concerns about three committee members being present in person at the high school library when the meeting was posted as a Zoom meeting, questioning transparency and open meeting law compliance.

Board members discussed the outcome of a recent outdoor town meeting held in a tent near Seaside Nursery School. Attendance exceeded 300 people, filling the tent.

Two major articles were considered:

• A winter parking blue light article passed.
• A gas-powered leaf blower restriction article was indefinitely postponed by a vote of approximately 121 to 111, after the question was called and a motion for indefinite postponement was brought by Todd Norman.

The Board of Health chair noted she had held the board’s prepared statement during the meeting, allowing community debate to proceed for roughly 45 minutes before intervening, as reading it at the outset would have effectively ended discussion. Two other articles (articles 29 and 30) were withdrawn prior to the meeting because the proponents felt they were making sufficient progress working with the Board of Selectmen.

Public comment ran for more than ninety minutes. Key themes:

Bus safety / transportation policy Jessica Benedetto (Bradley Road) called on the committee to update its transportation policy to provide busing where walking routes lack sidewalks, citing Beacon Street safety concerns, DESE’s “commonly traveled route with sidewalk” standard, and examples from Lynn, Salem, Beverly, and Rockport.

Remote and hybrid learning quality

• Colleen Nile (3 Bowdoin St.) raised concerns that the high school remote plan—3.3 hours of structured learning two to three days per week—did not match what the committee approved or submitted to DESE, and asked for a public forum before the October 17 town meeting.
• Aleister Connor (9 Cloutman’s Lane) cited lack of parent surveys, no consistency in home-day instruction, inadequate structured learning hours (her Grade 1 daughter receiving 2.45 hours/day vs. 4.7 hours/day required by DESE), and predicted a large increase in special-education referrals.
• Luca Ferro (18 Clifton Heights Lane, Grade 10, full remote) described being assigned to VHS and Edgenuity without notice until the Friday before school, receiving a summer AP Euro project he had no way to complete, and feeling unmotivated on asynchronous platforms.
• Alexis Erp (41 West Shore Drive, Grade 11, full remote) reported that her freshman brother was placed entirely in Edgenuity—no MHS teacher—and moved down a French level because the remote program didn’t offer his placement. She cited an Edgenuity “honors physics” course that asked matching questions appropriate for elementary school, and requested a meeting with the committee and remote families.
• Chrissy Liam (34 Tidewinds Terrace) praised elementary teachers but noted asynchronous home days were ineffective; an absent aide led to a cancelled 30-minute math session with no backup plan.
• Kathy Kendall (163 Jersey Street) called for a public forum with two-way dialogue and urged others to speak up so the district acts.
• Carl Rogers (15 Heinz Court) described child-care hardship as a single parent, asked why additional money is needed at town meeting given last year’s budget performance, and asked the school to provide proper full-day education.
• Blair Nelson summarized recurring themes: teachers are doing excellent work; elementary live instructional time is a fraction of a normal year; home hybrid days require extensive parent support; families are being treated as outsourced labor.
• Don Johns (9 West Cottage) asked whether “owl cameras” or similar technology had been explored to allow remote students to join in-person class sessions synchronously.
• Erin Noonan (Beverly Ave.) acknowledged individual committee members had been responsive but called for a public forum outside a school committee meeting structure.
• Kelly Sellowitz (23 Deveraux St.) praised teachers but expressed disappointment with Special Education communication; her son received no extra time in his IEP accommodation document without her input until she asked.

The health director reported 272 total COVID-19 cases in Marblehead as of the meeting date, up four from the prior week, with approximately 30 deaths. Marblehead remained in the green on the state’s weekly report.

Key reopening updates effective October 5th for lower-risk communities (those not designated red in any of the prior three DPH weekly reports):

New restaurant rules effective September 28th include parties of up to 10 and use of bar seating (table service only; six-foot separation between parties still required; plexiglass does not reduce the six-foot requirement). Laminated menus may be reused if sanitized between parties; disposable paper menus are no longer required.

The director noted that PCR testing is the preferred method; rapid antigen positives require PCR confirmation. MIAA guidance on fall sports for red-community scenarios was still pending.

For Halloween, the North Shore shared public health coalition was developing more specific guidance beyond the state’s generic guidelines. The board discussed touchless or low-contact candy delivery methods (PVC pipe chutes, candy on strings) and emphasized staying within family cohorts. Large costume parties or school-based gatherings were discouraged.

The board also discussed the farmer’s market now permitting shoppers to handle and select produce following updated governor’s guidelines.

John Whipple (106 Atlantic Avenue) spoke on behalf of the Marblehead Ministerial Association, reading an interfaith covenant statement drafted with Rabbi Meyer. The statement referenced their 1981 covenant adopted in response to acts of anti-semitism, affirmed universal and unconditional love for all people, and condemned recent acts of racism, anti-semitism, and homophobia in Marblehead. He called on congregants and all people to oppose bigotry and build an inclusive society. The committee asked him to share the written statement for inclusion in meeting minutes.

Following the MOA vote, board members speaking as parents raised two themes:

1. Communication consolidation: One member asked whether all information could be guaranteed to arrive via email to parents in the first three weeks rather than being spread across multiple platforms (Back Together MHD website, Google Classroom, etc.). The superintendent indicated the classroom teacher is the best granular resource and that the district pushes updates via Twitter and the website in real time.

2. Transition activities: Members flagged several transition cohorts they wanted to ensure were not overlooked — second graders moving from Coffin to Village, kindergarteners from Eveleth moving to Coffin, and the standard step-up grades. One member noted her daughter’s charter school sent login-testing information several days before the start of school as a model. The superintendent acknowledged the feedback and indicated that leaders hear about these priorities regularly from central office.

The chair opened public comment given the large attendance. Catherine Martin (29 West Shore Drive) asked whether industrial hygienists, not just HVAC consultants, would conduct carbon dioxide and humidity testing, referencing prior Fuss & O’Neill work at Eveleth School. She also questioned the timeline for mitigation if problems are found and noted that the MOA language on UV lights and filter selection was open-ended rather than binding on consultant recommendations.

Patrick Noonan asked for clarification on the MOA clause stating there are “no unresolved issues other than the HVAC issues,” seeking to understand whether that referred only to teacher building return or to the broader collective bargaining modifications needed for hybrid learning.

Resident Patrick Noonan engaged the board in extended discussion on jurisdictional and scientific questions surrounding school reopening:

• He argued that Marblehead is currently rated ‘green’ on the state’s town-level COVID color-coded map and that DESI and Mass DPH have issued clear, coordinated guidance since approximately August 1.
• He questioned why the board would apply stricter or different metrics to Marblehead Public Schools without applying the same standards equally to private schools (Powers, Devro, JCC, YMCA).
• He called for any deviation from state metrics to be predetermined, publicly announced, and subject to community debate well ahead of the October 5 hybrid-reopening date.
• The health director acknowledged that a formal order (requiring two weeks of advertisement) would be needed to apply requirements to private institutions, and that the board has generally deferred to the governor’s orders rather than issuing independent local orders.
• Board members clarified that their recommendations are advisory, made at the school department’s request, and noted the consultation relationship between the two bodies.

Resident Blair raised a separate concern about perverse incentives in the quarantine guidance: a close contact who tests negative must quarantine 14 days, potentially longer than someone who tests positive. Board members acknowledged the tension but noted the rationale is the virus’s incubation window.

The health director noted an uptick in mental health concerns in the community and anticipated further increases in the fall and winter when outdoor activities and natural light decrease. The board asked that pricing for a 24/7 toll-free mental health counseling program be brought to a future agenda, noting surrounding communities have already subscribed to such a service. The board noted that fall sports cancellations may reduce an important mental health outlet.

Beach water quality has been exceptional this summer; temperatures were approximately 63°F at Devro Beach and 64–68°F in the harbor and Salem Harbor. Five COVID-19 reminder lawn signs are posted at Devro Beach parking lot exit.

A board member reported personally intervening with a group of unmasked teenagers crowded together at the Neck Run Café, with mixed compliance response. Guests Kevin McCoy and Karen Pierce chose not to speak.

A resident named Tom, attending the meeting, asked whether face shields might be more practical than masks for younger school children, citing readability of facial expressions for educators. The health director responded that masks and face shields serve different purposes — masks block droplets from the mouth, shields protect the eyes — and that wearing both is required; one cannot substitute for the other. Tom noted he had seen mixed research results on shield effectiveness and expressed interest in reading more. The director also mentioned plexiglass table dividers as another option being discussed.

Members Aisley, Gottlieb, and Belkpecker all vote yes on the poll to convene. No minutes are available due to health department workload. The board proceeds directly to the COVID-19 update.

Health Director John Caswell delivered a COVID-19 update for Marblehead as of July 6, 2020:

• Cumulative confirmed cases: 237
• Active cases: 8 (all community-based, not nursing home)
• Deaths: 30

Caswell emphasized two key reminders:

1. Travelers arriving in Massachusetts from states outside the listed New England exemptions (RI, CT, VT, NH, ME, NY, NJ) must self-quarantine for 14 days.
2. Anyone with close contact with a confirmed case must quarantine for 14 days after last contact even if they test negative, because the incubation period can extend to 14 days.

He noted a demographic shift — cases earlier in the pandemic skewed toward ages 60+, but current cases are predominantly in the 20s and 30s age group.

Phase 3 reopening items now open (with guidelines):

• Movie theaters and outdoor performance venues
• Museums, cultural and historical sites
• Fitness centers and health clubs
• Certain indoor recreation with low contact potential
• Professional sports without spectators

Sports risk categories:

Beach water quality sampling (every Wednesday, results by Thursday) has shown no failures for the season. Mosquito surveillance for EEE and West Nile virus is ongoing via a Northeast Mosquito Control contract; no elevated risk in Marblehead at this time.

Meredith (address not stated) said she appreciated the committee’s difficult position and noted she had seen these challenges in prior years. She urged the committee to think about upstream, systemic budget solutions rather than yearly downstream cuts, saying the town would not be in as tight a bind if longer-term planning work had been done.

Jennifer Eaton raised a practical concern: even large healthcare organizations like Partners Healthcare are struggling to source disposable masks, wipes, and PPE. She asked whether the committee had thought through sourcing and budgeting for cleaning supplies and PPE for eventual school reopening, noting that five-minute disinfecting wipes have replaced two-minute wipes in clinical settings due to supply constraints.

Nine residents addressed the Committee, with the Committee’s policy this evening being that only the Superintendent would respond during the hearing itself. Several members later objected to that procedure; Gold ultimately closed the hearing and opened the SC discussion at 9:20 PM.

Resident concerns (in order)

Jerry O’Neil (18 Orchard Street):

• Asked who would lead HR decisions, employee training, and IT technology decisions given the eliminations
• Referenced “last year’s budget hearing” that suggested the override wait until FY21 and asked what override planning had been done
• Later: “we continued to be forced to do more with less” and asked for a strategic plan

Jeff St George (29 West Shore Drive) (facilities-management professional):

• Pressed on the $135,699 COVID line: planning for disinfecting (not merely cleaning), janitorial labor and supply costs, air quality of buildings prior to return
• “Concerned not enough labor and/or supply costs had been built in”

Catherine Martin (29 West Shore Drive):

• Asked whether $162,970 technology line could cover 2,800 students and 500 staff with hardware, software, and platform licensing for remote learning
• Asked about compensatory services for missed speech-language and other services in the Spring

Muffy Paquette (44A Cloutmans Lane):

• Asked for clarification on the $200,000 SPED prepayment — whether that amount comes back into the base budget when preparing the FY22 town allocation

Meredith Tedford (Locust St):

• Asked what went into the COVID expenditure line and whether it could be cut if not enough
• Said the presentation “had been tactical and not strategic” and hoped the committee would discuss overall philosophy

Erin Noonan (Beverly Ave) – later a Select Board chair:

• Asked for direct response from the committee (refused under the chair’s rules)
• Pressed on full Pre-K and Kindergarten tuition as a budget driver given COVID-19
• Asked about the influx of students returning from private schools if district stays full-remote
• Concerned about social-emotional needs of students reentering the district (Village has 2 guidance counselors for 700+ students — “very high case load”)
• Asked how the backlog of pending SPED evaluations would affect the budget
• Commended McAlduff on his constant honesty, referenced prior meetings where McAlduff said any further cuts would affect student services, and asked McAlduff to confirm; he did

Alastar Connor:

• Social-emotional health budget line; technology funding given many families may no longer afford their own; Coffin School air quality (HVAC, outdoor classrooms); school nurse involvement in budget process

Procedural drama

Sarah Fox stated that at a public hearing the public had the opportunity to interact with the elected officials. Chair Gold said that was not her understanding; McAlduff said it was allowable. Member David Harris recommended going through public questions without committee responding, “had never experienced the Committee responding to the public during the Budget Hearing.” Schaeffner noted several people had asked for the committee’s opinions. Gold’s procedure (committee silent through public hearing) held. Gold closed the public hearing at 9:20 PM.

Ben Berman of 43 Crestwood Road, identified as chair of the Finance Committee, used public comment to praise the school committee’s fiscal management. He noted the school is tracking a surplus of over $200,000 for FY20 and said this vindicated the decision not to pursue a $1.2 million Proposition 2½ override that had been proposed the prior year. He credited the superintendent and school committee members for cleaning up prior fiscal mismanagement and said the schools would be able to contribute their surplus to the town’s long-term financial stability.

The superintendent closed by reiterating that the remote learning website contact form is the recommended avenue for public feedback, providing a structured way to collect community input as the plan continues to evolve.