Recreation and Parks Chair Karen Ernst and Superintendent Jamie Block presented slides showing:

• The department currently maintains the upper field and schedules flag football (fall and spring seasons) on the site.
• Their preferred retained area is approximately 37,000 square feet (~0.85 acres, or roughly one-third of the ~110,000 sq ft parcel).
• The existing dog park at Green Street (~96,000 sq ft / ~0.23 acres) lost Tioga Way access in 2021 and Line Street access approximately one month before this meeting, leaving only a narrow, steep path from Reynolds Field that department vehicles cannot navigate.
• A temporary dog park on the upper ledge area was estimated to require fencing (~$30,000) but the department said it would first conduct neighbor outreach before spending money.

The board did not vote on a formal carve-out, but agreed that Recreation and Parks may continue its existing field maintenance and scheduling without any new board action. The open-space question was folded into the RFP direction given to Callahan.

Board member Moses Greater proposed that the Select Board collectively read the Declaration of Independence on July 4th, 2026, beginning at approximately 11:30 a.m. prior to the noon bell ringing. Greater suggested involving the Glover Regiment for a flourish. The board agreed to divide the reading among members. No formal vote was taken; it was treated as a planning discussion.

Colleen Eagles, a performing arts teacher at the high school, presented a request for a trip to Disney World open to approximately 100 eligible students with an expected 50-60 participants. Trip details:

• Cost: $2,481 per student
• Duration: 5 days in Orlando, 4 days in the park
• Includes: round-trip airfare, hotel on Disney property, breakfast and dinner daily
• Educational component: workshop with Disney professionals, sight-reading music for a movie trailer
• Performance opportunity at Downtown Disney
• Chaperone ratio: 10:1 (overnight trip)

The committee approved the trip unanimously.

Three event approvals were granted:

1. Eastern Yacht Club: Temporary closure of Foster Street (Harbor Ave to the yacht club) on July 4th, 2026, 6:00 PM–10:00 PM, subject to police and fire approval and a police detail. EYC must notify Balch Lane residents.
2. Five Corners Kitchen: Temporary outdoor dining at 2 School Street for 2026 season, subject to required forms, fees, insurance, and departmental approvals.
3. Old Essex Stage Company: Event at Eastport Sewall on Friday, June 19th, 2026, 5:00–8:30 PM, subject to usual rules, fees, and certificate of insurance.

The veterans agent described a full Memorial Day schedule:

• Friday: Breakfast hosted by Council on Aging, sponsored by Masons; grave flagging at Star of the Sea Cemetery
• Saturday: Grave flagging at Waterside Cemetery
• Sunday: Star of the Sea ceremony with VFW at 1:00 PM
• Monday: 8:00 AM Clark’s Landing sea memorial; parade from Old Town House to Memorial Park and Waterside Cemetery; VFW barbecue to follow

The trolley will run from the VFW. Liz Taro will handle singing after the band withdrew. Jim Shea will provide music by Jeep; a marching band would cost $8,000.

A 19th-century chair, one of the few undamaged pieces from a collection, is being refinished for a POW/MIA dedicated display. The VFW will sponsor stanchions, flags, and ropes at minimal cost to the town. The board agreed to formally accept the chair once it is complete and will identify an appropriate town location.

The superintendent presented the updated annual MOU with Recreation and Parks (April 30 through August 31). The committee identified a recurring ambiguity over who is responsible for irrigation system maintenance — particularly at Brown School — and agreed to add language to Exhibit A, bullet six, covering management of irrigation on all Marblehead School District athletic fields and properties.

A motion by Jen, seconded by Henry, to approve the MOU with that amendment passed 5–0. Members noted the agreement is a one-year document and that irrigation cost-sharing and responsibility should be clarified further over the coming months, ideally with input from a new facilities director once hired.

Members also flagged spring grounds cleanup timing: Recreation and Parks crews prioritize field lining for sports season first, then address loose mulch and leaves, leading to visible delays at school grounds. The superintendent confirmed ongoing communication with Recreation and Parks leadership.

Kelly, the lead world language teacher at MHS, presented a proposed international field trip to Portugal (Lisbon and Porto) from April 15–24, overlapping with April break. The trip would include day excursions to historic sites and cultural activities such as a Portuguese cooking class. The organizing company and tour guide from the prior year’s trip would return. Chaperones would include administrator Dan Richards, teachers Erin Bark and Jay Gudara, and Kelly herself.

A board member expressed support for experiential learning. The committee voted 5–0 to approve the trip.

Lead world-language teacher Kelly presented an international field-trip request: a Portugal trip from April 15-24, 2026, slightly overlapping the start of April vacation week.

• Two base cities (Lisbon and Porto) chosen to reduce hotel-hopping after lessons learned from this year’s trip.
• Same vendor; same tour guide, Haime Crystal, who navigated the group through a blizzard during the previous trip.
• Chaperones: Dan Richards (admin), Erin Bark, Jay Gudara, and Kelly herself.
• Itinerary: Sintra, Coimbra day trips; ruins, castles, fortresses; a Portuguese cooking class; the bookstore in Porto.

Although Portuguese isn’t taught at MHS, the romance-language connections give students a real linguistic angle.

Vote: 5-0.

Recreation & Parks Superintendent Jamie presented a lean FY27 budget that eliminates one full-time groundskeeper position ($45,000) left vacant after a series of internal promotions following a 39-year superintendent’s retirement. The reorganization—creating a new Parks Facilities and Maintenance Director role—produced salary savings. However, the eliminated position was the sole driver of servicing approximately 187 public trash barrels across town, a labor-intensive manual process requiring a dedicated truck. Without the position:

• The 187 barrels would be removed following a Town Meeting vote
• Trash pickup would continue only at active programming sites and fee beaches during season
• The department’s end-of-life trash truck (~$100,000 minimum replacement cost) would not need to be replaced for that function
• DPW Director Amy noted the cut removes one personnel resource from neighborhood snow-plowing routes, requiring her to hold vacation during storm windows
• The DPW director also flagged that lost trash containment may worsen stormwater quality at outfall beaches

The department returned $268,000 to the general fund from revolving-fund permit revenues in FY25, and the FY25 budget-to-actual was approximately $70,000 under budget (contributing to free cash). The Finance Committee approved the budget unanimously.

The board approved a request from Lisa Fenla of Marblehead Little Theatre to stencil washable white chalk rabbit-footprint markings on the public way on Pleasant Street, School Street, and Atlantic Avenue beginning April 10, 2026 to promote their production of “Harvey.” The board set a two-week duration and required that markings be removed at the end of the event at no cost to the town. The motion passed with one member voting no.

The consent agenda passed unanimously, approving the March 4, 2026 minutes; Abbott Hall Festival of the Arts July 4th events at Abbott Hall, Fort Sewall, and Old Town House; and a declaration of April 24, 2026 as Arbor Day.

Separately, the board considered and unanimously denied a request from Tiny Foods (a hot-dog company) to use the town’s Spirit of ‘76 painting image — including a depiction of a wounded soldier holding a hot dog — in a digital marketing campaign tied to the 250th anniversary. Members noted the image was sacred to the town and the deadline was two days away.

Paul Gleason (MHS) appeared via Zoom to request approval for three female students—including two freshmen—to travel to the DECA International Career Development Conference in Atlanta. Of 13 state competitors, five qualified, but two had prior commitments. Gleason noted a female chaperone who is a registered nurse and previously fingerprinted by the district would accompany the students at no additional hotel cost to the district; airfare was estimated at $300–$400 per ticket. The committee voted 4–0 to approve.

Teachers Jonathan Heler and Courtney Cummings presented the Village School ‘Village Experience’ at the Bourndale outdoor education center—a three-night, four-day program including marine lab, rocketry, geocaching, fishing, and adventure programming. Approximately 67% of families (about 109 parents) volunteered as chaperones. A parallel four-day program is offered at school for students who do not attend, including Project Adventure, Taste Buds Kitchen, and a visit to Crane’s Beach. The committee voted 4–0 to approve the trip.

The subcommittee reviewed two tree-planting proposals from the town tree warden:

1. High school parking lot — Grant-dependent plantings to create a canopy over asphalt to mitigate heat island effects.
2. Village School access road (Jersey Street to Village Street) — Funded from the tree warden’s donation fund.

Both projects require the district to commit to watering and maintaining newly planted trees. A past project met resistance from the custodial group, who argued watering was outside their scope of work. The contract language references a job description that has not yet been provided to the subcommittee.

A proposed solution: a 275-gallon portable water tank (~$170, reconditioned) that could fit in a pickup truck, offering a practical alternative to running long hoses. Members noted leaf removal at Brown Park falls under Parks & Recreation, not school custodians.

Next steps:

• Mike to request custodial job descriptions
• Subcommittee to review contract language
• Chair to call the tree warden back with an update on the watering question
• If watering is outside custodial scope, the district may need to involve maintenance staff or negotiate

The board unanimously approved a request from Claudette Mason of Company of Heroes to hold the annual 5K Run/Walk/Rock on Saturday, September 12, 2026, starting at 9:00 AM at the VFW on West Shore Drive. Approximately 150 participants are expected. Conditions include certificate of insurance naming the town as additionally insured, police and fire approval, police details as required, and no permanent street markings.

Tom reported on planning for the upcoming wellness fair scheduled for February 28. Approximately 30 people had been contacted and roughly half had confirmed attendance. The board discussed promoting the event further through additional email outreach. Raffle prizes include Bruins tickets.

The board unanimously approved:

1. Abbot Hall Festival of Arts — Friday, March 26, 2026, subject to standard rules, fees, and certificate of insurance. The event is described as launching an auction of the Robinson Frame and MFOA logos.

2. July 4th Fireworks — Contract 26-48 awarded to Pyrotechnico Fireworks Inc. for $55,000 (rain date July 5th). Funding comes primarily from donations collected by the fireworks committee.

The board approved the following consent agenda items:

• Minutes of December 2 and 10, 2025, and January 7, 2026 (held)
• Miles for Mary 5K Run/Walk (October 17, 2026) — subject to Rec & Parks approval and certificate of liability
• Abbott Hall Community Center Charter Public School use (June 17, 2026)
• Marblehead Little Theater at Abbott Hall (September 19, 2026)
• Marblehead Festival of Arts at Abbott Hall (February 6, 2026)
• BNS Fitness Black Cat 10/20-mile run (March 29, 2026) — subject to Rec & Parks approval and certificate of liability
• Washington’s Birthday bell ringing at Abbott Hall and town churches (February 22, 2026) at customary holiday hours

The board approved a $433,000 contract with Belco Landscaping for Phase 2 of the Gary School Playground improvements. The scope includes irrigation, plantings, ADA accessibility features, and equipment. The entire cost is drawn from the Gary School Playground donation account. Discussion noted the community raised approximately $500,000 in donations, with additional ARPA funding supporting Phase 1.

The Innovation Career Pathways (ICP) program director described a trip to the Landing School in Arundel, Maine for seniors interested in marine systems, diesel technology, wooden and composite boat building, and yacht design. The school is described as the only one in the country offering a degree in yacht design.

A sophomore student who transferred from Alabama and is nationally ranked in speech and debate presented a request to attend the Barclay Forum national circuit tournament at Emory University in Georgia. The student noted she was the first freshman from her previous school to advance past preliminary rounds. The chaperone cost will come from the high school budget. Both trips passed 4-0.

Town Engineer Maggie Wheeler presented a trail etiquette sign for the Smith-to-Pleasant Street segment of the Marblehead Rail Trail, consistent with the design previously approved for the Clifton-Rockaway section. The board approved installation of the brown sign on a foot-and-a-half post.

Colleen English, a first-year performing arts staff member, presented a proposal for an overnight field trip to New York City for high school students in performing ensembles, drama club, and music classes meeting during the school day.

Trip details:

• Depart Friday morning, January 16, 2026; return late Saturday, January 17.
• Up to 50 students, chaperone ratio of 10:1 (5 chaperones).
• Quad occupancy hotel rooms (two queen beds per room); students provide rooming preferences.
• Highlights: backstage tour of Radio City Music Hall, 60-minute Q&A with industry professionals, two Broadway shows, dinner at Ellen’s Stardust Diner.
• Travel company: Bob Rogers (previously used by the district); trip insurance optional for families.
• The district last ran this trip in 2024; it operates on an every-other-year schedule.

The superintendent noted this is an agenda amendment to ensure timely school committee approval ahead of needed fundraising and permission timelines.

Vote: Motion by Kate, seconded by Melissa. Passed 4-0.

Community Development and Planning Director Brenda Callahan presented the proposed rail trail signage. The sign design, developed with input from town staff and Police Chief King, will be installed at the Rockaway/Clifton Avenue segment and the Smith/Pleasant Street segment — the two most recently completed sections. Signs are in a brown/natural color consistent with state park signage conventions. Electric bicycle classification was briefly discussed; Class 3 or equivalent high-speed e-bikes may be considered motorized vehicles under applicable law. The board voted unanimously to approve installation.

See contract details under admin-housekeeping segment above. The Rec and Parks Commission held a formal interview and selection process, with a commissioner noting the process was well-structured. CHA’s in-house multi-discipline team for municipal sports was the deciding factor. Initial expenditure is approximately $69,000 for tasks 0–2 (stakeholder meetings and site surveys); subsequent phases return to the Select Board for additional appropriation from the Lars Anderson gift account. The field has known challenges including drainage issues and significant ledge.

Veterans Services Agent Ro and VFW Post Commander Ron Knight presented upcoming veterans events:

• Veterans Day, November 11: Ceremony at Abbott Hall area; three speakers lined up, chaplain, chorus director, and taps performer (Collins) confirmed. Congressman Moulton’s separate event moved to November 10 evening.
• November 8: New England Center for Homeless Veterans fundraiser at the VFW
• November 15: Marblehead Food Pantry event at VFW
• December 13: Army-Navy game watch event at VFW, planning committee of nine underway

Commander Knight praised the Veterans Services Agent’s work, noted claims are significantly up since the PACT Act expanded to cover more bases and branches.

The VFW proposed installing a POW/MIA commemorative chair at Abbott Hall. Research indicated approximately 136 towns in Massachusetts have such chairs, typically at town hall or local VFW posts. Estimated cost is approximately $600–$700 for chair, flags, and stanchions, plus a plaque (pricing pending). The VFW offered to contribute to the cost. The board indicated it would place the matter on the next agenda for a formal vote.

The committee chair reported attending a planning board meeting regarding lights for the athletic field. After discussion, the planning board agreed to allow field lights for up to 89 minutes per game during the school year (fall and spring), with the PA system permitted approximately a dozen times. The application must now proceed to the Zoning Board of Appeals. The chair noted the school committee should formally vote on the application before it goes to the ZBA, and that the committee should be represented at ZBA proceedings. The chair delegated Kate to represent the school committee going forward on this matter.

The chair also shared concerns raised by neighboring residents, including: students parking in driveways, litter left in the morning, adult league players using the field with loud language, and people jumping fences. The superintendent had previously met with a neighbor contingent. The chair encouraged neighbors to direct ongoing complaints to the superintendent and said the administration can work with students and adult-league users on conduct expectations.

The planning board’s conditions include a requirement that the superintendent return in one year with usage data.

The plan, funded by approximately $80,000 in ARPA funds, complements the 2020 Rail Trail Plan by focusing on on-street bicycle infrastructure.

Context: Builds on the 2018 Complete Streets policy, 2019 Complete Streets prioritization plan, the Net Zero Roadmap, the Sidewalk and Curb Ramp Plan, and the 2022 Pavement Management Plan.

Public engagement (April 2024–January 2025):

• Pop-up events at Glover School, Farmers Market, and Festival of the Arts
• Public workshop at Abbott Hall
• Online survey with over 800 responses (open ~4 months)
• Stakeholder interviews across ~6 virtual meetings
• Handlebar surveys by consultants on the ground

Key findings from public:

• Many parents and children don’t feel safe biking to school on current roads
• Rail trail perceived as safer than on-street routes
• Demand for safe routes to school, group rides, and bike education
• Desire for better connections to Salem, Swampscott, and commuter rail
• Concerns about e-bikes, aesthetics, bike–parking interaction, and maintenance costs

Plan outputs:

• Two facility types recommended: separated bike lanes/shared-use paths (on arterials and higher-volume roads) and neighborhood greenways (shared infrastructure on narrow/low-volume roads, including the Old and Historic District)
• Prioritization framework based on school proximity, safety crash clusters, connectivity, and feasibility
• Bicycle facilities toolkit referencing state best practices
• Performance metrics including a regular safety survey and tracking of bike rack usage

Draft plan: Available at marbleheadma.gov/marbleheadbicycleplan.

The board approved the consent agenda covering: (1) meeting minutes of August 28, 2025; and (2) use of the Old Town House by the Marblehead Museum on October 18, 2025, subject to standard rules, regulations, fees, and proof of required insurance.

Don Dahlberg, co-chair of the Marblehead 250 committee, presented the program for the second year of the town’s eight-year Revolutionary War commemoration series. Events on September 20–21 (10 AM–4 PM) will include appearances by Glover’s Regiment and BLS Regiment. The schooner Fame — similar in construction to the schooner Hannah, which was commissioned by General George Washington in September 1775 — will be available at the landing for free boarding from 9–10:15 AM each day, with 90-minute paid cruises at $50 per ticket thereafter (proceeds fund future Marblehead in Revolution programming). Students who attend can receive a signed slip for service-hour credit. A WBZ television segment filmed at Fort Sewell was expected to air between 5–7 AM the following morning. Event information is at www.marblehead.gov/mhd250.

A board member announced the fourth annual Marblehead Rotary Club Mental Health 5K, scheduled for Sunday, November 2 at 11 AM, starting and ending at the Boston Yacht Club. The race benefits the Inner Explorer Program, which supports mental health and wellbeing for youth in schools.

The board member personally challenged the Marblehead cross country and track teams to beat his finish time, pledging an additional $25 donation (up to $1,000 total) for each finisher who beats him. He also extended a $500 challenge to Congressman Seth Moulton. Spirit runner (non-competitive) participation is available, with clam chowder served at the finish.

The superintendent (referred to as John) presented a revised lighting proposal for Piper Field at the high school, which is pending Planning Board approval. Key changes from the original proposal:

• Total nights: approximately 180 (unchanged from initial ask, but now broken into two seasons)
• Fall: mid-August through November, approximately 105 nights
• Spring: mid-March through May, approximately 75 nights
• Curfew: all nights capped at 9:00 p.m., consistent with other lit town fields
• PA system: restricted to football game play-by-play and the national anthem; no amplified music beyond the anthem
• Lights: to be turned off at the end of each athletic contest, not automatically run until 9 p.m.

Neighbors (abutters) raised concerns at the August 12 Planning Board hearing not only about lighting but also about trash after games and other field conduct issues. The superintendent indicated he would address those separately through conversations with coaches, parents, and police. The matter was headed back before the Planning Board the following Tuesday, with a visual slideshow presentation planned. A committee member noted a potential requirement to also appear before the Zoning Board, which the superintendent said he would navigate.

Athletic Director Ken Wheeler presented a request to approve an overnight trip for the boys varsity/JV hockey team to Lake Placid, NY, December 12-13.

Trip details:

• Two-game series against Winthrop High School at the Herb Brooks 1980 Olympic Arena
• Games count as Northeast Conference League games; approved by the MIAA
• 1980 US Olympic team captain Mike Eruzione (a Winthrop alum) will speak to the team and provide a facility tour
• One overnight at the High Peaks Resort (~$249/room, double occupancy, 12 rooms = ~$3,000)
• Six meals for approximately 24 people (~$1,728)
• Coach bus round-trip (~$4,000)
• Total estimated cost: $8,000–$10,000; $2,000 deposit already paid
• Players plan fundraising for remaining costs
• 16 players + 2 goalies + 4 coaches

A committee member raised an equity concern about the girls hockey team; the AD acknowledged the girls program is a co-op with middle school participants, making a comparable trip more complex, and noted the plan is to arrange a similar opportunity for the girls in a future year.

Vote: 4-0 (unanimous).

The board approved use of Fort Sewell on Thursday, August 21, 2025, for a Marine Corps 250th birthday celebration event running from 4:30 to 6:00 PM as part of Marine Week in the Boston area.

The event was organized in partnership with Seth Moten and Select Board member Moses Grader. It ties Fort Sewell’s Revolutionary War history and the 1812 USS Constitution engagement (where 60 Marines provided covering fire) to the 250th anniversary. It also marks the 250th anniversary of the commissioning of the schooner Hannah, the first ship commissioned by General Washington.

Event elements include:

• The Quantico Marine Band
• The Marine Corps silent drill team
• An F-18 flyover (approximately four aircraft)
• A birthday cake-cutting ceremony
• A large monitor outside the fort for overflow spectators
• Live streaming on the Marine Corps network

Approved parking restrictions:

• All Fort Beach parking: restricted 12 noon to 6:00 PM
• Franklin Street to Fort Sewell public spaces: restricted 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
• Front Street (Franklin Street to Fort Sewell): closed to traffic 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM
• Additional police presence for street closures and Marine Corps personnel movement

The board also approved a citation honoring the Marine Corps 250th birthday.

A board member raised a concern received from a community member about water quality at Riverhead Beach, noting the presence of a drainage culvert, dog access, and active children’s recreational programs (including a sailing/sub program and kayak and paddleboard rentals operated by a community member named Leah Goodman).

The health department director explained that formally designating Riverhead as a public bathing beach would require a prescribed sampling protocol, likely prohibition of dogs, and potential restrictions on the boat ramp—steps that could jeopardize the popular watercraft programs. Members noted that the beach already carries a sign warning against contact with water near the culvert outlet.

Board members debated the tradeoffs at length. One member emphasized the cultural and access value of the Riverhead programs, describing them as transformative for public access to Marblehead Harbor, and cautioned against regulatory action that could threaten the operator’s financial viability.

The board agreed on the following next steps without a formal vote:

• Director to contact the state Bathing Beach program (after the bathing season closes in mid-September) for guidance on mixed-use areas.
• Vice chair to meet with Parks and Recreation chair Shelly to discuss whether a liability waiver for program participants adequately addresses the water-quality concern.
• Website to be updated to clarify which beaches are formally tested public bathing beaches.

Request from YukanRun.com to hold a half marathon on April 12, 2026 at 9:00 AM, approved subject to:

• Approval from Police, Fire, and School Department
• Police details
• Required Certificate of Liability
• No permanent markings on the streets
• Any temporary markings must be removed at the conclusion of the event

All in favor.

Mark Schock, president of the Polish Cultural Foundation of Boston, presented a request to use Fort Sewell for a commemorative event in July 2027 marking the 250th anniversary of General Casimir Pulaski’s arrival in Marblehead Harbor on July 23, 1777.

Schock described Pulaski’s historical significance: arriving in Marblehead aboard the brigantine Massachusetts, he traveled to Boston and then Philadelphia, where he met Lafayette and was introduced to Washington. Within eight weeks of arriving in Marblehead, he was commissioned Brigadier General and named first Commander of the Horse (American cavalry), following his actions at the Battle of Brandywine.

A plaque at Fort Sewell commemorating the event has been in place since 1989 and was rededicated in 2009. The foundation requested a town point of contact to confirm details for the 2027 event.

The board approved the request subject to standard conditions including police, fire, and recreation approvals, required insurance naming the town as additionally insured, and customary fees.

Rec & Park Vice Chair Karin Ernst (presenting for Chair Rosa, who was traveling) and member Shelley Badand provided an update on the multi-year effort to deploy the Lars Anderson bequest — currently valued at slightly under $3 million — at the Green Street rink site.

Phase One (estimated ~$2.6M, funded by bequest):

• Refrigerated ice rink on the existing 85%-of-regulation footprint
• Pavilion-style roof (architectural cloth or metal; approximately $250,000 difference between options)
• Welcome/warming area, dasher boards, glass
• Modular roll-out turf (~48-hour installation) for off-ice multipurpose use (lacrosse, soccer, etc.)
• Estimated 20 weeks of consistent skating per year, with the roof enabling a commitment to youth hockey ice times that the current outdoor surface cannot provide
• Design and engineering budget estimate: ~$170,000

Phase Two (to be funded by remaining bequest seed money, naming rights, and sport organization donations):

• Field surface refurbishment and lighting upgrades in coordination with the Electric Light Department

Bathrooms/ADA: Town Planner Alex suggested treating ADA improvements and bathrooms as a separate grant-eligible phase, which can proceed concurrently.

Procurement:

• RFP covers design of all three phases and construction management of phase one only
• Planned issue: July 7; opening: August 8
• Contract award expected within weeks; estimated design cost ~$175,000
• Full community engagement and interdepartmental review over 6–9 months
• Board will be asked to authorize expenditure of bequest funds once a firm plan is in hand (expected return: September)

Operations model: Pay-for-play rental by youth sports organizations, open public skating, and a revolving maintenance fund to pre-fund equipment replacement (e.g., turf resurfacing at year 10).

Advisory team: Town Planner Alex Eiter, Recreation Superintendent Jamie Block, Ernst, and citizen advisors including Corp Beal (municipal recreation director), Emily Reese, Pat Nunan, Mark Mius (Turner Construction project manager), and others.

Board members expressed broad support, noting the long underutilization of the Green Street site and the plan’s attention to long-term maintenance budgeting.

A board member presenting on behalf of Fireworks Committee Chair Alexander Falk announced that the Harbor Illumination will begin at 8:45 PM and fireworks will fire at 9:00 PM on July 4th — an earlier schedule than the past several years. The rain date is July 5th.

Funds raised following last year’s barge fire covered this year’s fireworks contract. The board was encouraged to promote this year’s fundraising as well, as 2026 marks the 250th anniversary and is expected to require a significantly larger event and budget.

A board member noted coordination with the Coast Guard and the trustees of Crown and Shield Island (formerly Brown Island) regarding crowd and cleanup management, particularly given historical issues with boat tie-ups on long weekends. A 1:00 PM high tide on July 4th was noted as a factor.

Drone restrictions were highlighted: recreational drones may not fly over crowds, public spaces, or moving vehicles; commercial operators also face restrictions. The town has a dedicated webpage (marblehead fireworks/drones) with guidance.

The motion passed unanimously.

Rec & Parks Director Shelly Bedrosian (participating remotely) described a public-private collaboration to replace 60 aging lights at Gale’s Field, for which replacement parts are no longer available. Project funding breakdown:

• Marblehead Youth Baseball donation: $50,000
• Rec & Parks revolving fund (approved by Rec & Parks board): up to $28,000
• Ham Electrical (Georgetown) for final connections: $21,000
• Marblehead Electric Light: contributing pole inspection, removal of old fixtures, and installation of new fixtures at no charge

Total project budget: approximately $77,000–$78,000. New fixtures are 8,500-lumen LED lights. Work is phased around summer programming; the majors field is targeted for completion before June 30, with the full project expected by September 1, in time for football season. New independent timers will be installed for each zone.

The Select Board read into the record the Memorial Day weekend schedule:

• Friday May 23: Veterans Breakfast at 9 AM (Council on Aging, sponsored by the Masons); grave flagging at Star of the Sea Cemetery.
• Saturday May 24: Grave flagging at Waterside Cemetery, 9 AM; meeting at the Bell Tower.
• Sunday May 25: VFW Veterans Service at Star of the Sea Cemetery, 1 PM.
• Monday May 26 (Memorial Day): Clark’s Landing memorial service 8 AM; parade muster at Old Townhouse 8:30 AM; parade begins 9 AM with stops at Memorial Park and route up Pleasant Street; proceeds to Waterside Cemetery. A trolley will be available. Selectman Moses Grader will speak at Memorial Park; a student essay will be delivered at Waterside Cemetery.

Superintendent Oda explained that a 2013 Planning Board decision limits Piper Field lights to 12 nights per year and restricts PA use to football games. The district is seeking relief to allow:

• Up to 12 nights with lights until 10:00 PM and remaining nights until 9:00 PM
• PA use for all applicable athletic contests

The goal is to free up other town fields for youth leagues and community sports by moving sub-varsity school games to Piper Field, which has newer LED lighting described as significantly less intrusive than prior fixtures.

Committee member Sarah Fox raised two concerns: (1) ensuring the Planning Board application is narrowly scoped to lights and PA only, not reopening the entire 2013 order of conditions; and (2) a potential Title IX issue with restricting PA use to football. The committee voted 5-0 to authorize the application. A Planning Board hearing is anticipated in June.

The board approved proclamations for World Ocean Day (June 8, 2025), Make-A-Wish Day (May 3, 2025) honoring 9-year-old Sophia as an upcoming wish recipient, and Marblehead Counseling Center Community Champions Day (May 1, 2025) honoring Ann Kat Disco and scholarship winner Camilla Ferrera Gomez.

Outdoor dining applications were approved for Elia Verna (261 Washington Street) and The Landing (81 Front Street), subject to required forms, fees, insurance, and approvals from police, fire, building commissioner, and town administrator.

The superintendent reported meeting with Recreation and Parks Director Jamie Block on a renewed memorandum of understanding covering facility use. The MOU runs from April 17, 2025 through August 31, 2026, with only dates changed from the prior agreement. The superintendent discussed a plan to use the former library space at the Iff building as a rain site for summer recreation programming, rather than routing children to Glover School. He also noted that the remaining library shelving and materials in that space will be removed — metal shelving via scrap dumpster at no cost, remaining debris via a dumpster to be billed to the library. The committee voted 4–0 to approve the MOU.

The board approved the following consent agenda items:

The board also declared Abbott Library’s large computer table as surplus in accordance with town policy.

The former Gary School playground is currently undergoing construction to become a public park with significant community involvement. Article 32 transfers care and custody to the Recreation and Park Commission, consistent with how other town parks are managed. The FinCom made no recommendation, finding no direct financial implications.

Village School Principal Jonathan presented the sixth-grade Camp Bournedale (‘Dale’) overnight trip, a longstanding interdisciplinary program combining marine science, engineering design, team building, and community-building activities.

Approximately 152 students will travel to Plymouth; 12 students will participate in a comparable Village School experience including trips to Crane Beach, a cooking program, and other activities.

The camp was recently sold but is continuing operations with the same director and program. Approximately 60–70 chaperones will participate.

Vote: 5 to 0 in favor.

The board unanimously adopted a proclamation declaring April 25, 2025 as Arbor Day for Marblehead. The tree warden’s program, now in its fifth year in partnership with Sustainable Marblehead and MHS Green Honor Society, will plant 22 trees at Getches Playground on April 25 and 100 Holly Winterberry seedlings in conservation areas on April 27.

Megan Sweeney delivered a presentation during Women’s History Month highlighting research into Marblehead women’s contributions across military service, civic leadership, education, and community care. She noted difficulty finding and aggregating women’s historical records.

She requested the board:

• Adopt proclamations for Sexual Assault Awareness Month (April) and Domestic Violence Awareness Month
• Support a women’s veterans monument
• Designate space for women’s portraits in Abbott Hall
• Establish more easily searchable online archives of women’s contributions
• Support a community beautification initiative she called the ‘Ms. Rumphius Campaign’

She cited support from Representative Armini, two state senators, the Women’s Veterans Network, and the Essex County Commission on the Status of Women. The board adopted the Sexual Assault Awareness Month proclamation unanimously. Board members noted the work of researcher Sean Casey and mentioned Marblehead native Major General Megan Quigley as an example of notable women to recognize.

The Recreation & Parks FY26 budget of $1,037,027 was presented and approved. A subcommittee of Finance Committee members (including Michael Ko and Lindsay) met with Recreation Director Peter, Jamie Block, and two commission members (Rosanna and Karen) on March 10th prior to the hearing.

Key salary changes:

• Night clerk stipend increased by $1,800 to accommodate two meetings per week
• Two part-time clerk positions requested but cut to balance the budget (this was noted as the fourth consecutive year the clerk position was not funded)
• Overall salary increase of approximately 3.47% based on step increases, grade increases, and 2% COLA

Key expense changes:

• $15,000 for enhanced cleaning services (reclassed from the Building Department budget, not a new cost)
• Utilities increased to reflect FY24 actuals, consistent with a town-wide directive from the Town Administrator to eliminate reliance on a utilities reserve
• Landscaping supplies increased modestly
• General expenses increased approximately 15.53%, largely attributed to reclassifications

Revolving fund: The department noted a town meeting article to raise the revolving fund spending cap from $1.5 million to $2 million. The department noted only the director’s salary is funded from the general fund; all program costs flow through the revolving fund.

Accessibility grant: Recreation & Parks, working with the town’s sustainability coordinator and the Disabilities Committee, secured a $92,000 state grant for handicap accessibility improvements at Devereux Beach, including Moby mat replacement of boardwalks around the playground and improved accessible parking and restrooms. The grant has a spend-by deadline of end of June and funds are already partially drawn.

Utilities reserve change: The town administrator eliminated department-level utility reserves and increased the Finance Committee reserve from $144,000 to approximately $450,000 to provide a more transparent centralized contingency.

Director Peter announced his upcoming retirement; the committee acknowledged his service.

Library Director presented the FY26 budget of $1,493,292, an increase of approximately $109,270 over FY25.

Key changes: | Category | Notes | |—|—| | Salaries | Increased due to 2% COLA and step changes; 23 staff total (~14 full-time equivalent); new part-time custodian added | | Expenses | Up ~$50,000; driven by HVAC service contracts and $18,000 increase in materials | | Positions not funded | Part-time temporary library assistant and part-time reference librarian |

State aid certification requires the library to be open 50 hours/week (library operates 52.5 hours) and meet a minimum municipal materials contribution. The municipal contribution for materials had not increased since 2018. The formula requires approximately $223,000 in municipal appropriations to generate state aid; private funding from the Second Century Fund and Friends of the Library helps close a gap of approximately $63,000.

A subcommittee of Finance Committee members met with the library director and reviewed the budget in detail prior to the hearing. The chair noted the library was forced to cut the part-time reference librarian request to arrive at a balanced budget.

Judy Anderson addressed the board to explain the historical significance of the bell-ringing event approved two weeks prior. She described how on February 26, 1775, British troops landed in Marblehead on a Sunday, and through negotiation and circumstance — with residents at church — a confrontation was avoided, unlike what occurred weeks later in Lexington and Concord.

Anderson noted upcoming related events: a sold-out (but Zoom-available) talk at the Marblehead Museum the following evening, and her own program on April 27th at Old North Church. She encouraged residents to participate in Revolution 250 committee activities.

Athletic Director Ken Wheeler (identified as the speaker) presented the athletics department budget section:

Department scale:

• Approximately 1,500 student athletic registrations this year (consistent with prior year)
• 900 student athletes served from Marblehead High School and Marblehead Veterans Middle School
• 70 teams across 32 sports
• 98 paid coaches and 26 volunteer coaches
• Over 1,000 events per year managed by two-person athletic office staff (Wheeler and Mark Tarmy)

Three departmental goals:

1. Participation — provide safe, enjoyable athletic programming for as many students as possible
2. Quality of competition — compete at a high level in the NEC and postseason tournaments
3. Culture — develop respect, teamwork, and integrity through initiatives including Captains’ Leadership Council (met five times), NEC leadership conference (12 students attended), and upcoming female leadership conference

User fees:

• Maximum user fee approximately $280 last year; approximately $260–$280 this year
• Last year saw a significant fee increase; administration does not plan to increase fees again this year given the magnitude of last year’s jump
• Participation did not drop significantly following the fee increase
• A committee member asked about intramural or non-competitive athletic options; Wheeler noted space constraints in winter but acknowledged the issue of ensuring pathways for non-elite athletes

Budget note: Athletic transportation for field trips, away games, and activities is handled by the district’s in-house transportation department.

The board approved awarding the Tenesco Country Club’s annual Community Golf Day on October 27, 2025 to Marblehead Counseling Center and directed staff to notify the club of the award.

Larry Sands, chair of the Fort Sewell Oversight Committee (28 Franklin Street), reported that the newly launched Fort Ranger program hosted more than 18,000 visitors between early June and the first weekend of November 2024, with rangers on duty Tuesday–Sunday noon to 4 PM.

Key program details:

• A $100,000 endowment funds roughly 10 years of ranger operations at approximately $10,000 per year
• A separate $200,000 fund covers ongoing maintenance
• Plans for 2025 include replacement plaques, new signage for the Constitution and Spanish cannon, tree replacements, a bike rack, and dog waste bags
• The committee is exploring a QR code donation system tied to the existing Fort Sewell donation fund
• A third-grade teacher at Brown School expressed interest in scheduling a class field trip

Recreation & Parks Commissioner Shelly Ian and Animal Control Officer Betsy Kruger presented proposed updates to Marblehead’s dog control bylaws (last revised in 2007) for inclusion in the town meeting warrant.

Background: Resident complaints about unleashed dogs on playing fields and dog waste on public spaces prompted a working group including Parks & Recreation, the Board of Health, and the Police Department.

Key proposed changes:

• Clarified language replacing ambiguous existing bylaws
• Fines for violations: $100 (1st offense) / $300 (2nd offense) / $500 (3rd and subsequent offenses); warning language removed but officer discretion retained
• Explicit enumeration of locations where dogs must be leashed, including Steer Swamp, Wyman Woods, Hawthorne Pond, and the rail trail year-round
• Riverhead Beach designated as a permitted off-leash area (non-bathing beach) consistent with Mass Environmental recommendations

Pooch Pass: An earlier proposal to charge a voluntary fee for dog owners to fund waste stations was researched but abandoned after comparable programs in Salem and Swampscott achieved less than 5% participation — insufficient to generate meaningful revenue.

A board member raised concerns about the second and third offense fine levels; staff and other board members supported the higher amounts as a deterrent. One board member expressed a preference for lower figures ($200/$300) but agreed to proceed.

Vote: The board approved pages 3 and 4 of the proposed warrant articles, subject to geographic additions (including Wyman Woods and Hawthorne Pond) and any changes from the Parks & Recreation meeting on January 22nd. Final language is to be submitted by the warrant deadline of January 29th.

The board approved soliciting letters of interest from nonprofit organizations wishing to host the semi-annual Marblehead outing at Esco Country Club on October 27, 2025. Letters of interest must be submitted by Friday, February 7, 2025 to the Select Board at 188 Washington Street or by email to wiley.k@marblehead.org.

The board announced the annual Christmas tree bonfire at Riverhead Beach on Monday, January 6, 2025 at 6:00 PM. Curbside tree pickup runs December 26 through January 3 (trees to be delivered to Riverhead Beach for the bonfire) and continues through January 10 (trees to go to the transfer station after the 10th). Trees must be free of lights, ornaments, stands, and plastic bags; garland, roping, and wreaths will not be collected.

Sustainability Coordinator Logan Casey presented a request to place approximately 20 lawn signs advertising the rail trail design public engagement process. Key details:

• Eight of the 20 signs (40%) will be located within Marblehead’s two environmental justice census tracts (income-based; households with median income ≤65% of state median).
• Salem will post its own copies of the signs for engagement in its environmental justice communities.
• A public listening session is scheduled for December 9 in Abbott Hall.
• The outreach effort is a grant requirement and will be documented for the permitting process.

The board unanimously approved the request, with department heads to coordinate specific placement on their properties.

Andrew Petty reported that a wellness fair signup form is ready to be distributed and will be sent out the following week via the Board of Health email listserv, permit holders list, and social media. Raffle prizes valued at approximately $700–$800 each have already been secured. Vendors are expected to include fitness businesses, mental health providers including the counseling center, and others. The total facility cost for the Cunniff Center (room rental plus custodial) is approximately $400. The fair is planned for a mid-January date, noted to fall near Martin Luther King Jr. weekend.

Veterans Agent Roseanne Tryon-Ellis reported that the Council on Aging will host a veterans breakfast on November 8 and a Veterans Day ceremony will be held November 11 in coordination with the VFW. A representative from Congressman Moulton’s office will serve as speaker. She also described plans for a monthly veterans coffee hour at the Council on Aging to discuss benefits, and noted she had filed approximately a dozen new claims for veterans who had not previously applied.

The board discussed plans for a wellness fair scheduled for January 18th at the community center (senior center), running from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, with the building reserved from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Logistics discussed:

• Building rental: $200, plus an undetermined cleaning fee
• Vendor tables: $25 each, with proceeds intended to cover costs
• Vendors/organizations to sign up through the health department and website
• A raffle with donated prizes (personal training sessions, gym memberships) is planned to attract attendance

A member organizing the event described outreach to the YMCA and JCC. Another member pushed for inclusion of topics related to obesity, cardiovascular health, and chronic disease, citing NIH statistics that 80% of adults are overweight or obese. A third member suggested non-pharmacological approaches to obesity and raised the topic of GLP-1 drugs. The discussion became contentious, with members disagreeing about the event’s scope and leadership.

The board approved a request from Tree Warden John Tolbert to remove cedar trees and stumps at 166 Front Street (Fort Beach Lane area near Fort Sewell). The request originated with Fire Captain Greg McLaughlin, who identified the overgrown vegetation as an impediment to emergency vehicle access. Rec and Parks indicated the area is not under its jurisdiction.

Dawn Dahlberg, co-chair of Marblehead 250, invited the Select Board and public to ‘Headers in the Revolution,’ a free event on September 21–22 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at seven sites including the Old Town House, Jeremiah Lee Mansion, King Hooper Mansion, Masonic Lodge, St. Michael’s Church, Abbott Hall, and Fort Sewall.

The event is part of a seven-year celebration of Marblehead’s involvement in the American Revolution, funded in part by an Essex National Heritage grant. The logo was donated by Flat Rock Creative. The committee has 15 volunteers from various town organizations, and 250 collectible books have been printed and will be available at Abbott Hall and the Marblehead Museum.

Marblehead Museum representative Lauren requested and received approval to block three parking spaces in front of the Jeremiah Lee Mansion (161 Washington Street) on Saturday, August 31, 2024 from noon to 1:00 PM. The spaces are needed for a Lafayette reenactor arriving by horse and carriage to mark the 200th anniversary of the Marquis de Lafayette’s farewell tour stop in Marblehead. The event is free and open to the public. A police detail is arranged and the horse and carriage will move to the Masonic Lodge parking lot after the arrival. Approval was granted subject to sign-off from police, fire, and DPW.

VFW Post 2005 Commander Ronnie Knight requested and received board approval to use an image of the Spirit of 76 on challenge coins to recognize donors and volunteers. The coins will also be sold to the public as keepsakes, with proceeds supporting future printings and charitable donations.

Knight also previewed upcoming events: a classic car show (August 15), and the Company of Heroes Patriot Spirit 5K/ruck march on September 14, 2024, benefiting a program that provides service dogs to veterans with PTSD. East Regiment Beer Company, owned by a former Navy SEAL, is a sponsor.

Sustainability Coordinator Logan Casey briefed the board on progress of the town’s comprehensive bicycle plan. Community engagement began at the Festival of Arts, where approximately 150 people were engaged. Upcoming events include tabling at the farmers market at the middle school on July 20 and a public workshop at Abbott Hall on July 30 from 7:00–8:30 PM. An online survey is also available. The final plan document is targeted for completion by March. Casey also noted a recently awarded Mass Trails grant for the first construction phase of the rail trail vision developed in 2020, with design underway on the West Shore Drive portion and the Swampscott portion newly under contract.

The board approved: (1) temporary parking restrictions on the right side of Foster Street to Harbor Ave on July 14, 2024 for a celebration of life; (2) a half marathon by U Can Sports on April 13, 2025 starting and ending at Marblehead High School, with portions of proceeds going to Friends of Marblehead Public Schools and the Council on Aging; (3) a 5K road race to benefit Marblehead Youth Hockey on September 22, 2024 starting and ending at Devereux Beach. All approvals were subject to insurance certificates and department approvals.

The board approved renewal of premises use on town-owned land at Front Street/Little Harbor (Turner Land) for five fishing shanty holders: Jeff Flynn (Shanty 3), John Byers (Shanty 4), William Power (Shanty 5), William Brown (Shanty 8), and David C. Rogers (Shanty 9). The town administrator noted a policy on fishing shanties is being developed.

Tyler Herb appeared before the board to request use of Abbott Hall for his Eagle Scout Court of Honor on August 10, 2024 (10:00 AM–2:00 PM). Herb described his Eagle Scout project: constructing a greenhouse (approximately 21 ft × 17 ft) and new raised beds at the outdoor classroom area of Marblehead High School, plus removal of invasive species. The project raised over $100,000 and involved more than 600 individual hours and 1,500 combined service hours. The school is currently connecting utilities (power and water) to the greenhouse, with classes expected to begin using it in the fall for science, cooking, and world language curricula. The board waived the rental fee and approved the request unanimously, subject to receipt of a $1M/$3M certificate of insurance naming the town as additionally insured.

The chair explained that the Marblehead Boosters had fundraised to replace the turf field at Piper Field at the high school. The bid came in lower than anticipated, leaving a remaining balance. The Boosters requested the surplus be used to replace and upgrade the field lighting — a scope item that had been scaled back earlier when costs appeared higher.

The lighting upgrade requires a separate procurement process. The school’s procurement officer confirmed via email that the work could be sourced through a purchasing consortium, satisfying state procurement requirements. A board member noted outside sports groups had raised questions about evening access to the field and said those concerns would be referred to the superintendent and athletic director.

Vote: Motion to accept the donation up to $200,000 — Brian Oda in favor, Al Williams in favor, Sarah Fox in favor, Allison Taylor in favor — 4 to 0 (one member absent/not recorded).

The committee voted 5-0 to approve the MOU with the Recreation and Parks Department as presented, with a correction to the effective date (April 15 was struck; the date of signing will be used going forward). Mary Ju confirmed the MOU was substantially unchanged from the prior year.

Vote: 5 to 0.

The board approved use of Abbott Hall and Old Townhouse for Festival of Arts setup and art drop-off, with times to be coordinated with the Town Administrator’s office. One-day liquor licenses were also approved for the Friends of Marblehead Public Schools event at 388 Ocean Ave on June 15th (6:30–9:30 PM, alcohol from CAPS Distributors) and for Monsignor Timothy Moran’s second annual Garden Party at Our Lady Star of the Sea, 85 Atlantic Ave, on June 22nd (5:00–7:00 PM).

On recommendation from the police chief, the board approved temporary street closures for July 4th covering the Horribles Parade (Pleasant, Spring, and Essex Streets beginning at 9:00 AM), fireworks traffic management (Front Street, Franklin Street, Washington Street beginning at 7:00 PM), and the Festival of Arts (Washington Street between Rockaway and Darling Streets, 11:00 AM–3:00 PM). The MBTA route will follow a pre-designated snow route from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM. The board also approved temporary parking restrictions on Alewife Lane on June 22nd from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM for the Marblehead Counseling Center’s Community Wellness Day at Hobbs Field.

The board voted to hold the annual fireworks and Harbor Illumination on July 4th, and separately approved the Horribles Parade organized by Carol McHugh and Joan Chaplin’s Gary Five Veterans Firemen’s Association, starting at the National Grand Bank. A rain date of Sunday, July 7th was also approved.

Alexander Falk of the Marblehead Fireworks Committee reported a fully rebuilt website (marbleheadfireworks with a dot in the middle) after the prior site crashed on July 4, 2023. New features include Venmo payment support alongside PayPal, a QR code for mobile donations, and a new page for drone operators outlining recreational and commercial restrictions developed in coordination with the police chief. Falk noted the committee is still short of its fundraising goal and encouraged donations.

The board approved a request from Lauren McCormick, Executive Director of the Marblehead Museum, to use Abbott Hall on Monday, October 14, 2024 for the museum’s Indigenous People’s Day event from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The board voted to waive the rental fee, subject to the usual rules, regulations, and receipt of a certificate of insurance.

The board unanimously approved its annual motion requesting that church bells throughout the town be rung on July 4th, 2024 at the usual holiday hours.

The Rotary Club of Marblehead Harbor received approval to hold the annual Holiday Pops Concert and pre-concert reception at Abbott Hall on Saturday, December 14, 2024, 4:00 PM–11:00 PM, with setup access on December 13 and breakdown on December 16.

The rental fee was waived. A one-day all-alcoholic beverage license was approved for 5:00 PM–11:00 PM on December 14, with alcohol to be purchased from North Shore Bartenders and no overnight storage on premises.

The board approved the request from Claudette Mason / Company to Heroes for a 5K family run and walk on Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 11:00 AM, starting and finishing at the VFW on West Shore Drive. Conditions include:

• Marblehead Police approval
• Certificate of insurance: $1M/$2M occurrence/aggregate naming the town as additionally insured
• Police details
• No permanent street markings; all temporary markings removed at conclusion

Dave Rogers presented the full Memorial Day weekend schedule:

• Thursday, May 23: Veterans’ Breakfast at the COA, sponsored by the Masons
• Saturday, May 25: Grave flagging at Waterside Cemetery, 9:00 AM at the bell tower
• Sunday, May 26: Service at Star of the Sea Cemetery on Lafayette Street, 1:00 PM
• Monday, May 27 (Memorial Day): Clark Landing/State Street Wharf ceremony at 8:00 AM; parade forming at the Old Town House at 9:00 AM; ceremonies at Memorial Park and Waterside Cemetery

Noted that only the Marblehead High School band will march this year after the other band disbanded following its leader’s retirement. Grand Marshal is Ken Drury, a 99-year-old World War II Naval veteran. General David McCannon will speak at Memorial Park; Tom Mathers at Waterside Cemetery. A musical performance by Jeannie Stahl and Mason Daring will include a song about the Vietnam Wall.

The board voted unanimously to prepare a proclamation recognizing Rogers for his many years of organizing the town’s Memorial Day observances, described as his final year in that role.

The board approved a large batch of event-related items:

• Marblehead Youth Baseball opening day parade start time revised to 9:30 AM
• Coastline Marine one-day liquor license April 27th, 12 noon–4 PM
• Marblehead Pride Committee use of Abbott Hall June 1st for a pride event
• MHS National Green School Society 5K at Devereux Beach on April 20th
• Fireworks contract with Atlas Pyrotechnic Fireworks Inc. for $50,000 for July 4th (funded through fundraising account)
• General Code recodification contract for $15,145 to update and reorganize all town bylaws (last done in 2003), with 14 printed code books to be provided
• Arbor Day proclamation for April 26th; tree planting events scheduled April 20th and 27th
• Glover’s Regiment use of Fort Sewell July 12–14
• Juneteenth flag raising at Abbott Hall June 12th
• Marblehead Festival of Arts multiple venues (Abbott Hall, old townhouse, Washington Street, Fort Sewell) July 3–7; one-day liquor licenses for May 31st at Abbott Hall and June 30th at Fort Sewell
• Eastern Yacht Club and Dolphin Yacht Club seasonal all-alcohol club license renewals
• Dolphin Yacht Club Sunday entertainment license renewal
• Marblehead Community Charter Public School use of Abbott Hall for graduation June 17th

The board approved $50,000 in ARPA funding toward the Piper Field turf replacement project, specifically for accessibility and safety components: widening gate entrances for emergency vehicle access and adding padding beneath the new turf surface (not included in the original project a decade ago).

The funds will be made available to the school rather than flowing through the booster fundraising effort, to comply with ARPA requirements. Approximately $447,000 in ARPA funds remain, earmarked for rail trail components.

The board approved the use of Abbott Hall for a Boy Scout Troop 79 Eagle Scout ceremony on June 4, 2024, subject to standard rules and fees, with the rental fee waived. A motion to send a letter of commendation to the Eagle Scout was also approved.

Board members discussed organizing a community health and wellness fair, modeled on a prior Chamber of Commerce event. January was identified as a preferred timing to capture New Year’s resolution interest. Potential venues discussed included the Marblehead Council on Aging gym. Suggested partners include the Chamber of Commerce, the YMCA (with new mental wellness director Jeev Benjamin), and the JCC. No formal vote or decision was taken; follow-up outreach to the COA director Lisa was proposed.

Bill Blazedale (72 Front Street) presented Article 51 to require the State Street Landing restrooms be open year-round. The brick building was designed for year-round use with furnace and ductwork; a recent state grant funded renovations with new partitions, sinks, and toilets. It has been closed in winter for decades.

Estimated costs (sponsor):

• One-time furnace installation: $7,500 (includes all ductwork, gas piping, electrical, permitting; 20-year heat exchanger warranty)
• Annual winter operating costs (November–April): approximately $4,000

DPW concerns:

• Water supply line may be too shallow (possibly only 2 feet deep in places) and could freeze in extreme cold
• Deepening the line could cost an additional $10,000–$15,000 for excavation
• Building has no dedicated maintenance department; responsibility has bounced between Harbors and Rec & Parks

A citizens group has offered to take over management responsibility including seven-day-a-week monitoring. The article was tabled for follow-up with DPW to confirm water line depth and costs before next week’s FinCom meeting.

Park & Recreation Director Peter presented a budget of $978,337. The department is funded from the general fund only for the director’s and one other staff member’s salaries; all recreation programming costs are covered by the recreation revolving fund, which is self-sustaining through program fees.

Key budget items:

• Salary increases reflect contractual obligations and step increases.
• Energy line items were increased to reflect actual projected costs, consistent with a town-wide policy.
• Landscaping materials reduced by $10,000 and repair/maintenance of landscaping equipment reduced by $4,000 at the director’s agreement, with the expectation these are one-year cuts.
• A request for two part-time special clerk positions (reinstating a pre-COVID senior clerk role) was not funded this year.
• Custodial service for the Community Center (shared with Council on Aging): $30,000 total annual cost split as $15,000 from the Building Department budget, $7,500 from the Rec revolving fund, and $7,500 from Council on Aging — described as a one-year interim solution pending general fund inclusion.

Capital: A $42,000 capital appropriation for gas boiler replacement is in this year’s warrant; the prior bid came in at approximately $90,000 against a $48,000 appropriation. A dump truck request is also pending. An electric mower purchased last year is performing well.

Revenue: The department recently reviewed and adjusted beach fees for summer 2024 and is adding credit card payment capability to increase revenue capture.

Four field trips were voted on after the budget hearing. The DECA trip to Anaheim passed unanimously (5-0); three international trips (Ireland April 2025, Spain February 2025, France 2025) each passed 3-0 with two abstentions. Member Jen Schaffner abstained on the international trips, citing concerns about whether evacuation insurance was clearly documented in the provided materials. The acting director of finance clarified that emergency evacuation coverage up to $500,000 per individual was included in the policy grids provided.

Donald Dohler and Edward Nelson presented a proposal to establish an ad hoc committee—the Marblehead 250 Committee—to celebrate Marblehead’s connection to the American Revolution’s 250th anniversary, framed as ‘celebrating the spirit of ‘76.’

The committee was formed drawing on experience from the town’s 350th anniversary celebration and recent collaboration with the Boston Tea Party Museum. The group includes representatives from private individuals, historical organizations, and businesses.

The board approved two motions:

1. Establish the Marblehead 250 Committee with 13 named members and authorize use of the existing Town Celebration Trust Fund for donations.
2. Approve the use of an image of the Spirit of 76 painting for the committee’s logo design.

Both votes were unanimous.

Athletics Overview

• 69% of high school students participate in one, two, or three sports seasons.
• 64 teams; approximately 90 paid coaches.
• 1,233 individual athlete-season participations recorded.
• Staffing: just the athletic director and one additional staff member.

Current User Fee Structure

| Category | Fee | |—|—| | Athletic/Performing Arts unlimited (per student) | $495 | | High school clubs | $140 | | Flag football | $66 | | Interscholastic sports (middle school) | $220 | | Intramural sports | $140 | | Family cap | $800 |

Proposed Change for Reduced-Services Budget

Currently, the operating budget covers 50% of coach stipends and user fees cover 50%. Under the proposed reduced-services budget, 100% of stipend costs would move to the user revolving fund (i.e., covered entirely by participant fees). Other athletic costs (transportation, pool/ice rentals) would remain in the operating budget.

If the current $495 fee covers 50% of stipend costs, covering 100% would imply roughly a doubling — approximately $990 per student for unlimited use — though the administration noted it is not that simple and will tier fees by sport cost. Comparisons to peer districts will be included in the proposal.

Key considerations:

• A family cap will be maintained.
• Free-and-reduced lunch program eligibility used as financial aid proxy.
• Concern that higher fees could reduce participation; administration will monitor.
• Administration emphasized athletics are not being cut, only the funding source for stipends is changing.
• The superintendent noted a desire to explore broader fundraising options to prevent any student being unable to participate.

The DECA overnight trip had been previously approved but required a re-vote because the hotel changed to the Colony Hotel, located across the street from the competition venue. The committee voted 5–0 to approve the updated trip.

A sixth-grade teacher (identified as John or related to ‘Heller’) presented the Village School overnight field trip to Bourne Dale, described as a legacy program in Marblehead. Key details:

• Trip is scheduled for May 21 (a Tuesday)
• Approximately 190 sixth graders; ~95% attendance expected
• Last year, 94 parent/guardian chaperones attended across three sessions
• Six core classes: project adventure, pond studies, engineer design (rocket building), recreation, fishing, and Science Idol (a song/performance competition integrating curriculum)
• Students without overnight accommodations participate in a comparable on-site program at Village School
• Trip was paused during COVID; returned last year

The committee voted 5–0 to approve the trip.

The board approved:

• Temporary closure of Corinthian Lane on Saturday August 10, 2024, 7 AM–4 PM for two Corinthian Yacht Club events (subject to police/fire approval).
• Abbott Public Library Foundation 5K walk on Saturday June 15, 2024, starting at Vets Middle School and finishing at Abbott Library (subject to insurance, police, fire, and school approval).
• YMCA North Shore Head of the Hill 5K road race on Sunday September 15, 2024 at 9 AM, starting and ending at the Lynch/Honorly YMCA (subject to police/fire approval and insurance).
• Two one-day liquor licenses for Marblehead Arts Association at King Hooper Mansion (February 10 and 11, 2024); alcohol from CAP’s Importing.
• One-day liquor license for Temple Emanuel at 393 Atlantic Avenue (April 10, 2024, 6:30–11 PM); alcohol from Beachmont Liquors.

Athletic Director Greg Ky and Muffy Puckett (Boosters), along with civil engineer Meg Budzinski (Activ), presented the Piper Field synthetic turf replacement project. Key details:

• Estimated total project cost: approximately $954,000
• Funds raised to date: $792,193 from approximately 135 donors and three events
• Remaining gap: approximately $161,807
• A $200,000 placeholder will be sought at town meeting via the capital plan
• Timeline: bid out late February, bids returned mid-March, construction award spring, mobilization post-school-year, completion by approximately August 20 preseason

The new system will include a resilient underlayment pad below the carpet for improved and sustained impact attenuation. Existing rubber infill will be partially reused; removed carpet will be repurposed rather than landfilled. The committee raised questions about ARPA funding (previously declined) and sustainability concerns; the engineer addressed EPA studies on crumb rubber safety.

The committee voted 4-0 to approve the Boosters to fundraise for the project.

The board approved the annual Black Cat Wicked 10/20 miler road race for Sunday, March 24, 2024, organized by Ashley Steves of BNS Fitness. Start time is 8:00 AM with all runners exiting Marblehead by 11:30 AM. The event is subject to Marblehead Police and Recreation and Parks approval, certificate of insurance naming the town as additionally insured, and police details. No permanent street markings permitted; temporary markings must be removed after the event. Benefiting charities are the Marblehead VFW post and the Alley Kassner Scholarship Foundation.

Student Xavier Gido presented a proposal to establish a Pan Mass Challenge club at Marblehead High School. The club would raise funds for cancer research at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute through the Pan Mass Challenge bike ride, with the goal of enabling interested students to participate in the ride.

The committee reviewed Policy JJA on student organizations. Members clarified that the school committee’s role was limited to approving the student activity sub-account; club approval is a school-level decision. The committee noted a precedent with other philanthropic clubs at the high school and middle school that operate similarly as pass-through accounts.

The motion to create a student activity account for the club passed 5–0.

Fire Chief and Amy presented annual tree-burning logistics. Key dates:

• Curbside pickup: Wednesday December 27, 2023 – Friday January 5, 2024 (before burning)
• Bonfire: Saturday January 6, 2024 at Riverhead Beach, starting at 6:00 PM
• Post-burning pickup continues: through January 12, 2024
• After January 12, residents must bring trees to the transfer station

Requirements: All lights, ornaments, and stands must be removed; trees must not be in plastic bags. Wreaths, roping, and garlands will not be picked up. Residents may also bring trees in person the night of the event. The board noted last year’s compliance was strong with minimal non-wood debris.

COA Director Lisa Huber presented a renovation plan with architect Walter Jacobs. The existing sunroom (approximately 26 years old, unheated, unair-conditioned, used mostly as winter storage) will be demolished and replaced in approximately the same footprint with a roughly one-foot bump-out. The new space will:

• Combine the existing lounge/library into one open room
• Feature booth seating, counter seating, and a knitting/flexible seating area
• Include a small service station (one hand-washing sink; not competing with the commercial kitchen) for coffee, muffins, and light items bought from the kitchen
• Be fully insulated and conditioned, with operable awning windows on the sides for cross-ventilation
• Be designed for flexibility as programming evolves

Funding comes from the Friends of the Council on Aging and requested SHA (Senior Housing Authority) funds — no taxpayer capital plan funds involved. The Board of Health has been consulted and is supportive. The board voted unanimously to support moving the project to bid.

A donation request for a village scoreboard, submitted by Marblehead Youth Football with Jason Glass as the point of contact, was deferred at Mr. Glass’s request. He asked to present in person after January 1, 2024, pending clarification of several outstanding questions.

The board approved the full suite of 2023 Christmas Walk events submitted by the Marblehead Chamber of Commerce, including:

• Annual tree lighting at National Grand Bank parking lot, Friday December 1 at 7 PM
• Holiday wreaths and garlands throughout the business district starting the week of November 20
• Holiday lighting at the Old Townhouse and State’s Landing by November 17
• The 52nd Annual Christmas Walk Parade on Saturday December 2 at noon, routing from State Street Landing through Washington Street, Atlantic Avenue, Gerry Street, and Pleasant Street
• Use of the Old Townhouse December 2 from 11 AM–5 PM (rental fee waived)
• Associated parking and traffic control measures recommended by the Police Chief

The board also approved a community walk organized by Epstein Hill All-School to benefit Nahal kibbutz in southern Israel, to be held December 10, 2023, starting at Devereux Beach.

Basketball Hoops – Veterans Middle School The Friends of Marblehead Basketball offered to donate two new backboards, rims, and padding for the Veterans Middle School main gymnasium at no cost to the district. The committee approved acceptance 5–0.

Village/Hopkins Field Scoreboard Marblehead Youth Football Commissioner Jason Glass and volunteer Matt Martin presented a request to fundraise for a replacement scoreboard at Hopkins Field. National Grand Bank was identified as a significant donor. The request raised a policy question: district policy KCD (adopted 2018) states that gifts from businesses may not involve extensive advertising or promotion. The existing scoreboard displays the name “Marblehead Savings Bank” at similar prominence to the memorial name. Committee members requested a design mockup to evaluate whether the proposed National Grand Bank signage would constitute advertising under policy KCD. The motion was tabled 5–0 pending receipt of the mockup.

Dave Rogers briefed the board on Veterans Day 2023 activities. On the Thursday before (November 9), the COA will host a breakfast at the Senior Center sponsored by the Masons at 9:00 AM. The main ceremony on Saturday, November 11 begins at 10:00 AM in the Abbott Hall Auditorium, with doors open at 9:00 AM. Parking shuttles will run from the National Grand Bank lot beginning at 9:00 AM, with the last shuttle at 9:45 AM. The Coral Group directed by Andrew Scolio will perform. Principal speaker is Colonel Josh Bradstreet, USMC, a town resident. After the service, the VFW will host a coffee and breakfast open to all. Rogers also mentioned a Wreaths for America fundraiser; donations can be made payable to Wreaths for America and dropped off with Theresa Collins at the police station.

The Select Board approved the request from Kate Doula, co-chair of the Marblehead High School All Sports Booster scholarship drive, to conduct the annual door-to-door canvas on Sunday, October 15, 2023 from 12:00 noon to approximately 3:00 PM. Motion passed unanimously.

Performing arts teacher Andrew (last name not stated) presented a proposal for a trip to New York City on January 13-14, 2024 for high school music ensemble and drama club members. The trip includes two shows and museum visits. The fundraising efforts of the drama club and music department will subsidize $150 per student, bringing the cost to approximately $590 per student. Financial assistance is available for students with need. The committee asked about weather contingency; the tour operator provides liability coverage and rescheduling options. The motion was approved unanimously.

The board unanimously approved use of Abbott Hall for Congressman Seth Moulton’s Veterans Town Hall on November 10, 2023 at 3:00 PM, subject to usual rules, fees, and a certificate of insurance. Board members noted the event’s significance and recognized that Veterans Agent Dave Roger is retiring after this event.

A board member proposed reviving a Bike Rodeo safety program to address observed increases in children riding without helmets or riding unsafely. Discussions identified Tom Regan as a potential instructor and Dennis (DPW/transfer station staff) as having staff support. No formal date has been set. The board suggested offering ribbons and stickers as incentives, consistent with past programs.

The board unanimously approved use of Abbott Hall for a wedding ceremony for Thomas Smith on Saturday September 16, 2023 from noon to 6 PM. The original venue was Crocker Park, but the event was moved indoors due to the approaching hurricane. The board noted the personal significance of the event for the applicant.

Town Planner Becky Cutting provided a detailed history and status update on the Marblehead Rail Trail:

Background

• The trail corridor was controlled by the light and water/sewer departments as a utility right-of-way; a 2018 MOU and town meeting vote formalized recreational use via easement.
• Successive DCR grants funded surface improvements (2019), a master plan (2019), and 75% design for the Lead Mills section.
• A Complete Streets grant funded improved crossings at major streets, completed December 2022.
• A $175,000 federal earmark secured by Congressman Moulton was approved by MassDOT for design of trail improvements from the Swampscott line to Smith Street.

Revised scope for ARPA funds ($1.4M allocated by the Select Board)

• Original plan called for full vehicular-capacity bridge replacement at Lead Mills. After further review with utilities and public safety, vehicular access was determined unnecessary.
• New plan: replace bridge surfaces and railings to meet ADA accessibility standards (current bridges have lips, uneven surfaces, and bollards that prevent wheelchair and stroller passage).
• Savings from reduced bridge scope will extend trail improvements from Lafayette Street toward West Shore Drive.
• An RFQ for a professional engineer and licensed site professional will be issued shortly; permitting is complex (AUL for prior hazardous waste, coastal bank triggering MEPA, Conservation Commission NOIs in two communities, Army Corps review, riparian zone, environmental justice outreach).
• Bid will use a base bid plus add-alternates structure to maximize funds.

Concurrent work

• MassDOT-approved $175,000 federal earmark for Swampscott line–to–Smith Street segment design; RFP issuable October 1.
• DPW testing interim surface materials to address puddling and obstructions.

Public comment

• Resident Amy Danforth (Manchin Road) expressed support for the redirection of funds toward the trail itself, noted the Seaview-to-West Shore segment serves four public schools and key civic destinations, and raised concern about sustaining momentum after the current funding cycle. She also mentioned interest in forming a Friends of the Rail Trail group modeled on Swampscott’s.

The board unanimously approved the Marblehead Rotary 5K on Sunday November 5, 2023 at 11 AM, beginning and ending at the Boston Yacht Club, subject to police and fire approval, certificate of insurance, and police details. No permanent markings are allowed on the public way.

The board unanimously approved the request from the Marblehead Festival of Arts to use Abbott Hall for the annual Artisans Marketplace during the Christmas Walk on Friday December 1 (5:30–8:30 PM), Saturday December 2 (7 AM–5:30 PM), and Sunday December 3 (9 AM–6:30 PM), subject to usual rules, regulations, fees, and certificate of insurance.

The board unanimously approved the annual Breast Friends Walk on Sunday, October 8, 2023 at 9:30 AM starting at Devereaux Beach, subject to police chief approval, Recreation and Parks approval, police details, receipt of a certificate of insurance, and prohibition on permanent markings. The board also unanimously approved use of Abbott Hall on Sunday, August 20, 2023 from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM for a chamber music concert by the Joni Ensemble, subject to standard rules, fees, and certificate of insurance.

The board unanimously approved the request from Mary Kenahan / Marblehead Boosters to hold a 5K road race on Saturday, October 21, 2023, subject to approval from Marblehead Police, Recreation and Parks, and Marblehead Public Schools, and receipt of a certificate of insurance. Start time is 10:00 AM; no permanent markings may be made on the street.

The board unanimously approved the annual request from Ashley Steves B&S Fitness Companies to hold the Wicked Half Marathon on Sunday, September 24, 2023. The approval was subject to Marblehead Police and Recreation and Parks approval, receipt of a certificate of insurance naming the town as additionally insured, required police details, and a donation to a Marblehead charitable organization. All distances start and finish at Salem Willows, with the last runners starting no later than 10:00 AM. No permanent markings may be made on the street.

The board approved a package of temporary street closures and traffic regulations for three July 4 events:

• Horribles Parade (9:00 AM): Closures on Pleasant Street between Spring and Washington Streets South; Spring Street becomes one-way; Essex Street closed during staging.
• Fireworks display (7:00 PM): Front Street closed between Franklin Street and Fort Sewell Lane; multiple one-way designations on Franklin, Washington, and State Streets; post-fireworks traffic routed via Erford and Green Streets to West Shore Drive; MBTA bus route follows snow route 6–11 PM.
• Festival of Arts Street Festival (11:00 AM–3:00 PM): Washington Street closed between Rockaway and Darling Streets; Hooper and Mason Streets closed between Tucker and Washington Streets; no parking along the closed Washington Street segment.

The pickleball court operating-hours item had come before the committee after the pickleball community met with Parks & Recreation and abutters. The committee’s recommendation was to refer scheduling back to Parks & Recreation, consistent with how other school athletic fields are scheduled.

A departing committee member noted that the conversion of the Vets tennis courts to pickleball courts—funded by a pickleball community organization—had occurred without coming before the committee for a vote, and that school-owned property had been effectively repurposed without the committee formally receiving the gift or approving the change. She raised concerns about deferred maintenance costs and unresolved legal questions, and suggested the incoming committee address the full history of the arrangement at a summer retreat. No formal vote was taken on the pickleball item.

The board unanimously approved the Marblehead Dollars for Scholars ninth annual Run for the Fund 5K on Sunday, October 1, 2023 from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM, subject to approval from police, fire, recreation, and the parks department, required police details, certificate of insurance naming the town as additionally insured, and a prohibition on permanent street markings.

The board approved establishment of a donation account for the Gary Playground (Eldridge Gary Park), a parcel retained by the town when the former Gary School was sold for condominium conversion. The developer committed approximately $10,000 toward the park as part of the sale agreement.

Neighbors Paul Pruitt and Bob Bragden spoke in support, describing the parcel as a potential community focal point in Old Town analogous to waterfront parks like Fort Sewell and Crocker Park. Becky Curran noted the town will hire a designer, conduct neighborhood and public engagement meetings, and pursue grant funding. Checks may be made payable to the Town of Marblehead with ‘Gary Playground’ noted in the memo line, sent to Abbott Hall, 188 Washington Street.

The Marblehead Cultural Council, represented by outgoing chair Anthony Silva, presented a proposal to install a Pride-themed painted pavement design on four concrete slabs outside the town information booth between Essex and Pleasant Street facing Memorial Park. The design, created by local professional artist TJ Deli, incorporates the intersectional Progress Pride flag incorporating colors representing LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and transgender communities.

The project will be funded entirely through the Marblehead Cultural Council’s state allocation, at no cost to the town. The council voted unanimously to bring the project forward. The design uses two-layer traffic-grade paint with an anti-slip finish, expected to hold up under heavy foot traffic. The council discussed future maintenance funding options including fundraising and sponsorships.

The Select Board voted unanimously to approve the request, subject to no cost to the town and final approval by the town administrator.

The outgoing student representative provided end-of-year updates including:

• Class officer elections held May 22 and May 24 for seniors/juniors; sophomores the following day
• MHS band/orchestra spring concert May 22; chorus concert and Performing Arts banquet May 25
• GSA Club hosted Day of Silence on May 24
• MHS art exhibition at Abbott Hall through May 31
• Senior prom June 6 (red carpet 4:30 pm, prom 6:30 pm)
• Senior field day June 8 at Piper Fields (yearbook signing, cap and gown pickup)
• Graduation June 9 at 6 pm at Piper Fields or MHS Fieldhouse
• NHS induction the following day at MDMS; National Green School Society induction May 30; National Spanish and French Honor Societies also recognized
• Biology MCAS for freshmen June 6-7

David presented the Memorial Day weekend schedule:

• Friday: Veterans’ Breakfast at COA, 9:00 AM, sponsored by Masons (~75–80 attendees expected)
• Saturday 9:00 AM: Traditional flagging of graves at Waterside; public encouraged to participate
• Sunday 1:00 PM: Service at Sea Cemetery with Monsignor Moran
• Monday (Memorial Day): Trolley departs BFW at 7:30 AM; 8:00 AM service at Clark Landing/State Street Wharf with high school band and Glover’s Regiment; parade up State Street at 9:00 AM; stops at Memorial Park and the cemetery; reception at BFW afterward

Grand Marshal: Dan Jenn, US Navy, WWII veteran, age 95, former Marblehead High School teacher.

Speaker at Memorial Park: Rear Admiral Jay Clark, US Navy (Ret.), of Nahant.

Speaker at Waterside Cemetery: Francisco Arena, former Secretary of Veterans Affairs in Massachusetts, former Marine (Purple Heart), current superintendent of Lawrence Airport.

The committee voted 4-0 to approve the final version of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the school committee and Parks & Recreation.

Pickleball courts at Vets: Parks & Recreation voted to make a formal recommendation to the school committee regarding a pilot schedule for pickleball court hours at Veterans Middle School, intended to control noise for neighbors while maintaining student safety. The chair reported the Parks & Rec meeting was collaborative, with pickleball players, neighbors, and Parks & Rec staff all agreeing on a proposed solution. This recommendation will be brought to the next school committee meeting for a vote.

Turf fields: The school committee had requested turf field replacement as a capital item this year, but the town was unable to fund it. Boosters are planning a fundraising kickoff. A request is also being explored to determine if turf field replacement qualifies as ARPA-eligible infrastructure spending. The chair suggested a joint request from both the school committee and Parks & Rec could be more powerful in conveying the community-wide nature of the project.

The board approved Boston Yacht Club’s request to park a trailer at 1 Front Street July 6–9, 2023 for the Marblehead-to-Halifax Race. The board also took note of the annual shellfish bed closure (May 1–September 30) with constable Jack reporting 63 licenses issued and nine volunteer constables patrolling. No vote was required for the shellfish notification.

The board unanimously approved use of Abbott Hall on June 15, 2023, for the Marblehead Community Charter Public School’s annual graduation ceremony and rehearsals, subject to usual rules, regulations, fees, and receipt of a certificate of insurance.

The Select Board unanimously approved a request from Shamus Daley, Captain of Glover’s Marblehead Regiment, to use Fort Sewall from July 14 through July 16, 2023, for the regiment’s 2023 annual summer encampment, subject to usual rules and regulations.

The Select Board unanimously approved the request from the Marblehead Pride 2023 Committee to use Abbott Hall on Saturday, June 3, 2023 at 3 p.m. for a Pride flag raising ceremony. The rain date is Sunday, June 11, 2023. Approval is subject to usual rules, regulations, and fees.

The board unanimously approved a contract with Power Vision Entertainment Group Inc. in the amount of $49,000 for the annual fireworks display and authorized the chair to sign on behalf of the board.

The board read and unanimously adopted the annual Arbor Day Proclamation, designating Friday, April 28, 2023 as Arbor Day. The proclamation referenced the first recorded public tree planting in the New World in 1646 in Boston and the national Arbor Day tradition dating to 1872.

Article 46 – Carbon-Free Energy in Historic Districts: Sponsor Mark Adams was not present. No financial implications noted; no Finance Committee recommendation.

Article 47 – Repeal Gas-Powered Leaf Blower Ban: No sponsor present. No Finance Committee recommendation.

Article 48 – Leaf Blower Fine Enforcement: Co-sponsor Todd Norman and Kathy Breslin presented enforcement additions to the summer leaf blower restriction bylaw passed last year (which took effect September after the restricted period had passed). Proposed fines: warning for first offense, $100 second, $200 subsequent. Town Administrator confirmed Town Counsel assisted in drafting; Police Chief and Health Department Director Andrew Petty both agreed to enforce. Finance Committee voted unanimously to recommend adoption.

Recreation & Parks Director Peter presented a budget driven primarily by 6% salary growth (2% COLA plus step increases) and modest supply increases for grass seed, fertilizer, and paint. The department took a 10% staffing cut during COVID and has been level-funded since. Two part-time clerk positions and cleaning services for the Community Center (quoted at approximately $29,000/year from a private contractor) were identified as potential override additions.

The department generates approximately $250,000 in general fund revenue through float storage, park permits, and beach parking receipts. Beach parking revenue splits Monday–Thursday entirely to the town; Friday–Sunday the department retains $15 of the $20 fee for beach operations. Raising out-of-town beach parking fees was noted as a future consideration.

The harbor enterprise fund ($1,084,512) was approved in a separate vote after being inadvertently omitted from the select board omnibus motion.

The board approved the Festival of Arts 5K race/walk on May 13, 2023, starting on Smith Street and finishing at the Community Center (8–10 a.m.), subject to standard conditions. The board also set application deadlines: April 7 for the Disabilities Commission and MBTA Advisory Committee (interviews April 12), and April 21 for the Task Force Against Discrimination (interviews at the April 26 select board meeting). Current applicants on file include Dan Albert and Edward McCarthy for the MBTA Advisory Committee, Arnold Cohen, Rick Keller, and Bridget Duffy for the Task Force/Disabilities Commission.

The board approved two event-related items: (1) awarded the semi-annual golf day at Tedesco Country Club to the Marblehead Counseling Center, and (2) approved the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s annual walk on May 6, 2023, starting and ending at Marblehead High School, subject to approval from police, fire, schools, Recreation & Parks, police details, and receipt of required insurance.

The board proclaimed May 11, 2023 as Rotary Club of Marblehead Day in honor of the club’s 100th anniversary. The Rotary Club will present a two-faced town clock at the Chamber of Commerce booth at 11 a.m. The board also approved a request from BSA Troop 79 to use Abbott Hall Auditorium on May 13, 2023, from 4–7 p.m. for an Eagle Scout Court of Honor for Christopher Vasquez, Tyler Callahan, and one other scout, with fees waived.

The board approved the annual Marblehead High School Carnival at Devereaux Beach from May 4–7, 2023, subject to Recreation and Parks approval, certificate of insurance, and all required permits.

The board then approved a multi-venue request from the Marblehead Festival of Arts for July 4th events and related programming, covering:

• Abbott Hall upper grounds (Artisans Marketplace, July 2–4)
• Abbott Hall second floor (exhibits, July 1–4)
• Old Town House (photography exhibit, July 1–4)
• Washington Street closure (foot traffic only, July 4, 11:30 am–3:30 pm)
• Fort Sewell (champagne reception, June 24–26)
• Crocker Park (performing arts and film, July 1–4)

The board approved Ashley Steves/BNS Fitness to hold the Wicked 10/20 Miler road race on Sunday, March 26, 2023, subject to police and Recreation & Parks approval and required insurance. Start times begin at 8:00 AM with all runners out of Marblehead by 11:40 AM. The VFW Post in Marblehead and the Alley Kastner Scholarship Foundation are to be among the event’s charity beneficiaries.

The board also approved a private drain connection license agreement for 286 Ocean Avenue (QBW LLC), which had completed the required DPW approval process.

The board approved the following requests in sequence:

• Marblehead Museum: Use of Old Townhouse on March 10, 2023 (6–8 PM) for a fundraising event; rental fee waived. One-day liquor license also approved (alcohol from Cappy’s Importing).
• Jeff Hunt: Abbott Hall use on June 23, 2023 (3–5 PM) for a wedding ceremony.
• Marblehead Little Theater: One-day liquor license for a Valentine’s Day concert on February 11, 2023 (6–11 PM) at 12 School Street (alcohol from Rumson’s Rum).
• Eagle Scout Xavier Rosado: Abbott Hall use on April 30, 2023 (10 AM–2 PM) for Eagle Scout Court of Honor; rental fee waived. Xavier described his Eagle Scout project improving trails, removing invasive species, and re-graveling paths at the Seaside Conservancy area.

The board approved the traditional ringing of bells at Abbott Hall and all Marblehead churches on Washington’s Birthday, Wednesday, February 22, 2023, at the customary times (7:30–8:00 AM, 12:00–12:30 PM, and 6:00–6:30 PM). The board also approved Marblehead Youth Baseball’s annual Opening Day parade on Saturday, April 29, 2023, starting at 9:00 AM behind Veterans Middle School and ending at Getchell’s Park, subject to standard approvals.

The board approved two road race event requests. The Miles for Mary Memorial 5K, supporting brain cancer research, is scheduled for Saturday, October 14, 2023 from 8:30 AM to noon. The Head of the Hill 5K, organized by the YMCA of the North Shore, is scheduled for Sunday, May 21, 2023 at 9:00 AM, starting at the Lynch/Van Loan YMCA. Both approvals are subject to police and fire sign-off, required insurance certificates, and removal of all temporary street markings.

Principal Dan Bauer requested emergency approval of an overnight field trip to New York City for the Marblehead High School Model UN club, scheduled for approximately March 15–18. The club, advised by Mr. Trubiano and recently formed, qualified through a competitive process to debate at UN Headquarters. The group consists of approximately four to five students. The trip requires several nights of lodging and transportation, and students want to begin fundraising immediately. The committee voted 4-0 to approve the trip.

The board approved a request from Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Catherine Koch to use the Old Townhouse on Saturday, December 3, 2022 from 11 AM to 5 PM for musical performances and the Cheeky Curtis Holiday Marblehead Village train display. The rental fee was waived, subject to standard rules and a certificate of insurance.

Dave Rogers described upcoming Veterans Day events:

• Wednesday, November 9: Veterans breakfast at the Council on Aging at 9:00 AM; veterans encouraged to call ahead for a headcount.
• Friday, November 11 (Veterans Day): Town ceremony commences at 10:00 AM at Abbott Hall; shuttle service from the National Guard armory runs 9:00–9:45 AM. Tim Keeney (VFW) will be the main speaker; choral group under direction of Scoglio performs. VFW Post 2005, 321 West Shore Drive, hosts coffee and treats afterward.
• 11:30 AM: Congressman Seth Moulton returns to Abbott Hall Auditorium for his Veterans Day Town Hall.

The board approved a request from the Festival of Arts to use Abbott Hall and the upper grounds for their annual Artisans Marketplace on Friday December 2 (5:30–8:30 PM), Saturday December 3 (7 AM–5:30 PM), and Sunday December 4, 2022 (9 AM–6 PM). The upper grounds will also be used to display five ice sculptures. Use is subject to the usual rules, regulations, fees, and required certificate of insurance.

Don Morgan (19 Wyman Road), representing the Marblehead Conservancy, presented a request for the School Committee to authorize continued maintenance of the forested area adjoining Village School. The parcel includes Robinson Farm land (acquired by the town ~15 years ago) and the former Germaine Farm portion of Village School property. The Conservancy has developed a trail network with multiple loop entrances, built a ~100-foot boardwalk over wet ground, removed thousands of invasive plants, and sponsored Eagle Scout projects on site. The trails are used by students for outdoor learning and as walking routes to school.

Village School principal Mandy Murphy confirmed the space benefits students and classes. The Conservation Commission asked for written School Committee authorization as part of reauthorizing the Conservancy. The committee voted unanimously to continue the relationship until further notice; the vote will appear in the meeting minutes to satisfy the Conservation Commission’s requirement.

The board approved a one-day liquor license for First Lutheran Church (Reverend James Dixie) for a fundraiser on Sunday, October 2, 2022, 12–4 p.m., with alcohol to be purchased from Merrimack Valley Distributing Company. The board also approved use of the Old Town House by the Marblehead Improvement Association on Sunday, October 23, 2022, 1–5 p.m. for their annual meeting at no cost, subject to usual regulations.

The board approved use of Abbot Hall for the Rotary Club of Marblehead’s 26th annual Holiday Pops concert on December 10, 2022 (setup/breakdown December 11), and a one-day liquor license for the event from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., subject to standard licensing conditions including proof of alcohol purchase from an authorized source and receipt of the $50 licensing fee.

The school committee voted unanimously on two motions related to a proposed bike park at the Beacon and Green Streets parcel:

1. Transfer of parcel: The committee voted 5-0 to transfer the parcel (Assessor’s Map 159, Lot 20) from school department custody to the care and custody of the Recreation and Park Department. The rationale was that insurance for recreational use requires the property to be designated as recreational, which is not possible under school department custody.

2. Support for Article 33: The committee voted 5-0 to support Article 33 at the annual town meeting, which would formally authorize the town to accept the transfer and allow Recreation and Park to work with the bike park organization (referred to as ‘Bikemore’) on a memorandum of understanding.

Linda Rice Collins of the Recreation and Park Commission attended the meeting and noted that no formal agreement with the bike park group has yet been reached, and that discussions would need to proceed through the town’s process. The committee also called for progress on a broader MOU between the school committee and the town regarding all school-owned properties, noting that the Board of Selectmen had not yet appointed representatives to that process.

Marblehead Boosters president Muffy Paquette, joined by new VP Mandy Caruso, clarified that the banners display only donor company names — no email addresses, websites, or phone numbers — and therefore constitute sponsorship recognition rather than advertising. The program had been approved originally around 2019 for the high school football field at Piper.

Boosters sought approval to extend the program to:

• Hopkins Field at Village School
• Softball field at Veterans Middle School

Paquette also provided an update on the ‘Forever Fan Zone’ project: approximately $40,000 raised toward a $75,000 goal, with Boosters potentially able to float funds to begin construction this fall. The committee voted unanimously (4–0) to approve the expanded sponsorship banner placement.

The board approved a request from the Star class World Championship co-chair for temporary no-parking zones on Ballast Lane and Foster Street during the Star class World Championship event to be held in Marblehead September 7–18, 2022. The approval is subject to coordination with police and fire departments.

Mass Trails Grant: A board member described an application for a Mass Trails Grant in which Marblehead is the lead community with Salem participating. The grant would fund design and permitting for a bike path extension from where the Salem bike path ends on Lafayette Street through to Lees Mills, consistent with the rail trail master plan. The design would feature decomposed granite surfacing, improved bridges for accessibility, and restored harbor views.

State Street Landing Sling Lift: The Marblehead Disabilities Commission held a dedication ceremony for a new sling lift (Hoyer lift) installed at State Street Landing — described as the first of its kind on Marblehead Harbor. The lift enables residents with mobility limitations to safely board boats. It was funded by a private donation from the Mariners of Marblehead and Jim Moses. Harbor Masters and Disabilities Commission members attended.

Planning Board Note: A board member reported attending a Planning Board meeting where accessory dwelling units were discussed; the discussion was described as positive.

A representative of the Marblehead Ministerial Association appeared to describe an upcoming benefit concert called ‘Shelter My Soul,’ a fundraiser for the Lynn shelter. The event was described as a Live Aid-style concert scheduled for Saturday from 7–10 PM, featuring the Chad Hollister Band, a jazz group called Larson, and other acts. Sponsors include the Marblehead Rotary Club, National Grand Bank, and local churches and temples. Board members were offered complimentary tickets and encouraged to attend or endorse the event.

The board approved a minor activity permit for repair of steps near Fort Beach at no cost to the town. Special conditions included the use of a tarp under concrete ready-mix trucks. A board member noted that donor Bill Parker is funding the work, and the steps were described as in danger of failing.

Holly Aloha James of the Marblehead Cultural Council submitted a request to use Abbot Hall on Saturday, October 8, 2022 at 2 p.m. for the town’s fourth Indigenous Peoples Day celebration. The program, titled ‘Northeast Woodlands Traditional Native American Storytelling Concert,’ features storyteller and singer Jenison. The board approved the use of the hall including elevator, bathrooms, and chairs (ADA compliant) and waived rental and custodial fees for the free community event.

The board approved a request from the festival organizers to erect a tent for the annual Champagne Festival on Sunday, June 26, 2022, subject to required permits and a certificate of liability. The board also approved the Fourth of July Oversight Committee’s use of the tent prior to the festival.

French Trip (April 2023): Presented by MHS French teacher Mary Francois (name as heard). The trip uses a travel company different from the one used in 2020 (which was canceled due to COVID). Key features include full-refund insurance up to 4 days before departure for any reason, a language-immersion component including a visit to a French high school and home-hosted dinners. Pricing locked through July 1; families encouraged to sign up within the month. Vote: 5–0.

Basketball Trip to Florida (December 2022): Presented by Coach Jerry (last name unclear). Both boys’ and girls’ varsity basketball teams would attend a tournament in Orlando/Florida. Anticipated 13–15 players per team; coaching staff (4 for boys, similar for girls) would serve as chaperones at a 1:6 adult-to-student ratio. Financial need policy applies — no student would be denied participation due to inability to pay. Vote: 5–0.

Music Department Trip to Disney/Orlando: Presented by Dan on behalf of Mr. Scoli (absent). The trip goes through Encore, a company previously used by the district. Competition held at Disney World. Includes a fundraising incentive from the tour company. Music department staff including band director and middle school teacher would chaperone. Same financial need policy applies. Vote: 5–0.

Boosters representative Muffy (last name unclear in ASR) and athletic director Dan presented renderings and context for a proposed upgrade to the ‘Forever Fans’ section at Piper Field—the hillside area between the main entrance and the visitors’ stands.

Key elements of the proposal:

• Brick pathway replacing a dangerous grassy slope
• Regrading of the hillside
• Retaining wall upgrades and landscaping/replanting
• Amphitheater-style seating usable as an outdoor classroom and event space
• Memorial plaques including one for James (last name unclear) and others
• A plaque designating the Class of 2022 class gift
• Class officers Rich McLean and Sheridan Khan were present on Zoom in support

Estimated cost: $50,000–$100,000, to be raised through fundraising (brick sales, bench naming, tree sponsorships, general donations). Boosters planned to display fundraising materials with QR codes at graduation the following day.

The Superintendent noted the district’s memorials policy would need updating over the summer to govern how future memorials are designated. The board approved the project concept with the understanding that policy details would be finalized. A board member suggested forming an advisory committee to make design decisions on materials and color.

Vote: 5–0 to approve the project as presented.

A board member (identified by context as David) described the following Memorial Day weekend schedule:

• Friday: Veterans Breakfast hosted by a local group; the city band performs.
• Saturday: Traditional flag-laying at graves at Star of the Sea; a small crew lays flags annually.
• Sunday: Service at Star of the Sea at 1 p.m.; Sunday morning, the Beacon Cinema is hosting a 10 a.m. showing of the new Top Gun film, first come, first served, as a tribute to veterans.
• Monday: Traditional Memorial Day parade led by the high school band down to Crocker Park/State Street area; a short service honoring all war dead including merchant mariners.

Sponsors Rick Smires and others sought town sanction for a mountain bike park at Green Street Woods, proposing to fund all construction, maintenance, and insurance costs through donations and volunteers. Town Counsel Lisa raised several concerns:

• The recreational use statute may not fully protect the town without insurance company approval and construction to industry standards.
• Mountain bike parks typically require higher-level insurance coverage.
• The land is currently under school committee care, custody, and control; changing its use requires both a town meeting vote and school committee approval.
• The article as written does not specify which town entity would assume care, custody, and control.

The school committee had previously voted support for the concept but could not finalize terms due to the unresolved liability question. Sponsors indicated they would work with the town moderator to draft a motion that could accomplish the use change within the four corners of Article 33. The finance committee voted to make no recommendation, inviting sponsors to return with financial details before town meeting.

Principal Dan Bauer and business teacher Janice Scaliban (who runs the DECA program) requested approval for an overnight field trip to Boston for the DECA state competition, March 10–12. Key details:

• 29 students qualified by placing 1st–5th at the district competition held at Endicott College
• Students will leave the afternoon of March 10, missing one school day
• Cost: $345 per student, partially supported by prior fundraising and a grant from the Friends organization
• Students must be vaccinated (two doses) and masked per Boston guidelines
• Day-commuter option is available for students who prefer not to stay overnight
• Meals will be boxed rather than buffet-style; rooms are triples or quads
• Health office nurse Deanna consulted on COVID protocols

The committee voted 5–0 to approve.

The chair described the Green Street property at the corner of Green and Beacon as the subject of a lengthy process initiated by the BikeMore group, led by Pat Milner, in spring 2020. Town counsel had drafted a right-of-entry, release, and indemnification agreement.

The committee discussed the end date for the agreement and settled on August 31, 2022, rather than locking into a multi-year commitment, noting ongoing broader land-use conversations with the town.

The committee praised BikeMore volunteers for clearing the site, working with conservation authorities after unauthorized ramps were built on wetlands, and restoring the property. A 5–0 roll-call vote approved the agreement.

Committee member Sarah Fox commended student advocates who had engaged in civic advocacy throughout the process.

The board voted unanimously to approve a facility sticker rebate for Leslie Downey of 66 New Street. Downey holds a handicapped placard, which under Park and Rec Committee policy exempts her from the Devereaux Beach sticker requirement. She retains a sticker for the transfer station.

High school principal Bauer presented graduation and senior week plans updated per DESE April 28 guidance:

• Graduation: Friday, June 4 at 6 PM on Piper Field (outdoor). Rain dates: Saturday June 5 at 2 PM, Sunday June 6 at 2 PM. No indoor rain plan.
• Capacity: Currently planning 4 tickets per family, in pods of 4 chairs spaced 6 feet apart. A Google Form will be sent for advance sign-up.
• Arrival: Staggered entry through multiple entrances. Diplomas placed on table; students wear gloves. A photo spot off-stage where students can briefly unmask.
• Ceremony: Professional sound system, band and a cappella with appropriate spacing, microphones wiped between speakers.
• Graduation will be live-streamed for those unable to attend.
• Senior week schedule: Wednesday evening—prom/formal event with red carpet, box dinner, dancing (updated DESE guidelines now allow dancing), and awards; Thursday—senior show and hypnotist at the PAC; Friday morning—mandatory graduation rehearsal at 9 AM; Friday evening—graduation.
• Assistant Principal Lindsey Page coordinating with class advisors and student officers.

Candice Sliney (Spanish teacher, Team Harmony advisor) and Jody Smith (North Shore Juneteenth Association liaison) presented to the committee on Juneteenth — the annual commemoration marking the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Texas were informed of their freedom, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.

Sliney noted that Massachusetts DESE updated the school calendar so that 2021 would be the first year Juneteenth is officially recognized as a state holiday. She proposed the following for Marblehead Public Schools:

• Purchase a Juneteenth banner ($95 each) for each school in a high-visibility area
• Purchase a shared elementary school art program ($200)
• Purchase a Juneteenth flag ($60) for the high school cafeteria, to accompany recently donated Gay Pride and Black Lives Matter flags
• Fund a professional study group to examine curricula for diversity and representation (‘windows and mirrors’ framework)

Committee members expressed strong support. One member noted it was ‘an incredibly small financial ask for something that has the potential to have a significant impact.’ Another asked whether Team Harmony students could use upcoming Village School sessions to discuss Juneteenth. Sliney confirmed Team Harmony was already presenting in all freshman and sophomore health classes that week.

The chair noted the Juneteenth calendar item — recognizing it as a state holiday — would come back at the next meeting, as the school year ends before June 19 this year but the calendar would need to be amended for next year.

Athletic director Greg (last name unclear from transcript) presented a plan to improve the softball field behind Veterans Middle School:

Proposed improvements (largely operations-level, no committee vote required):

• Grade and clear wooded/rocky area in right field to create two-level stadium-style seating
• Install crushed stone walkway behind the batting cage for spectators
• Remove or trim tree cluster near the new scoreboard (tree department can handle this)
• Paint the existing snack shed red
• Install a permanent chain-link outfield fence during April break to replace the mesh temporary fence; the fence is removable for field hockey season

Key details:

• Grading and seating work would be donated by a local company
• The permanent fence sleeves are set 18 inches into the ground with caps 4 inches below the grass surface, so the field remains safe for field hockey and intramurals
• The field is school-department property behind the Veterans Middle School

Committee discussion:

• Sarah Fox suggested the tree trimming is a quick call to the tree department and that much of the work is operational, not requiring committee approval
• Concern was raised that the outfield fence has some community controversy; Fox asked for a more detailed satellite-view plan before approving the fence placement, noting concerns about impact on gym classes and outdoor COVID activities
• Superintendent Buckey noted the work was brought to committee to avoid blindsiding members given the history of community disagreement
• Park and Rec (Peter James) should be included in the discussion since they maintain the fields

Updated spectator guidance was also shared: outdoor athletic contests may now have two spectators per athlete for both home and away teams; indoor sports (volleyball) remain at two per home athlete due to space constraints.

Chair Gold reported that the Bike Marblehead group, led by Pat Milner, has been seeking space for a pump track and trail system. After the Conservation Commission declined, the group approached the school committee. Town counsel reviewed the matter and returned it to the school committee as a rental/lease issue. The superintendent and CFO Michelle Cresta will work with the group on lease terms and liability. Wetlands delineation from the Brown School project was noted as a constraint. The committee discussed that some land at Green/Beacon is in early planning stages, while the pump track area (near the high school tennis courts) involves clearing fallen trees and overgrown brush rather than clearing live trees. No vote was taken; the matter will return when lease terms are developed.

AD Siglerski gave a winter season recap and Fall 2 update:

Winter season highlights:

• Boys hockey: 8-4-1
• Girls hockey: 5-4-3 (first-year head coach Brittany Smith)
• Boys basketball: 7-5
• Girls basketball: 7-5
• Swim & dive: broke several long-standing school records
• Gymnastics: 1-5
• Ski team also competed (noted in public comment)
• Managed 2 close-contact situations, 3 positive COVID tests; return-to-play policy implemented

Fall 2 season (started February 23):

• Sports: football, volleyball, indoor track, cheerleading
• 230 athletes registered; 74 football players (17–18 freshmen, rest JV/varsity)
• Season runs through April 25; spring season begins April 26
• Spectator policy: 2 per home athlete (parent/household member only); no away spectators
• Football practicing indoors initially, moving outside as turf clears
• Pool testing for athletes discussed as a possibility; Siglerski to consult with superintendent

Vote: Approved unanimously to support Fall 2 athletics.

Athletic Director Greg Siglarski presented the winter athletic season plan. Key details:

• Season dates: Games scheduled to start the following Tuesday, running through February 21st; fall 2 season begins February 22nd.
• Spectators: No away spectators at any games. A majority of league schools are allowing two home spectators per home athlete, consistent with the fall season. Schools using shared facilities (ice rink, pool) are subject to those facilities’ rules; the Revere rink left spectator decisions to Marblehead. Live-streaming options available at the field house and rink.
• Red-town policy: A previous Marblehead policy not to play towns that had been in the red for three consecutive weeks was found to be unique—no other league member was doing this. Under that policy, only Gloucester (recently out of the red) would have been a playable opponent.
• Quarantine risk: If a Winthrop player tested positive within 48 hours of a game against Marblehead, both teams would quarantine for 14 days. At the high school level, the flexible schedule structure (using platforms like Edgenuity) means a team quarantine would not necessarily tip the entire school to full remote, unlike at the elementary level.
• Transportation: Buses operating at half capacity; parent transport allowed as in the fall.
• Co-curricular activities: The superintendent emphasized support for all co-curricular activities (band, theater, student council, clubs) not just athletics.

A board member (Sarah Gold) raised concerns about the mixed message of allowing sports while restricting in-person learning, and suggested the committee revisit sports if the school goes fully remote, which the committee agreed to address at that time. Roll call vote: Sarah Gold yes, Megan Taylor yes, Sarah Fox yes, Emily Barron yes, David Harris yes.

Athletic director Greg Siglarski reported that winter sports (boys and girls basketball, boys and girls hockey, swimming and diving, skiing, and gymnastics) began practices and tryouts that week, with 224 student athletes participating. Marblehead and Beverly were the only two league schools rated ‘yellow’; all others were ‘red.’

Key points:

• No interscholastic games are scheduled before January 8
• Hockey teams are practicing at the Lynn Arena (6 a.m. slots) and Revere
• All COVID protocols remain in place, including temperature checks and daily attestation forms
• Coaches have been supportive and want to continue

Committee member Sarah Fox raised concern that it sent a ‘mixed message’ to say in-person learning was unsafe but in-person sports could continue. Superintendent Bucky argued that the mental health benefit for 224 students over winter break outweighed the transmission risk given the protocols in place.

The motion to allow all varsity sports practices to continue through the week of January 4 was moved by David Harris and seconded by Sarah Gold. The vote was 4-1, with Sarah Fox voting no.

Athletic Director Greg Siglarski reported on the fall season:

Special recognition was given to athletic trainer Will Desjardins and assistant AD Mark Tarmy.

For winter sports, the MIAA board of directors was scheduled to meet the following morning to vote on modifications. Many leagues are considering starting the season around December 7 or 14 rather than November 30, to allow time after Thanksgiving. All winter sports are indoor, which committee members noted raises additional safety considerations compared to fall outdoor sports.

Athletic Director Greg Ziglarski reported that more than one week into the fall season, check-in procedures were running smoothly after initial adjustments. All student-athletes receive a daily symptom check and temperature screening, recorded for contact tracing. JV and freshman teams were split to off-campus locations to reduce crowding. Participation numbers were up slightly, including 66 girls soccer players and 34 golfers. Middle school cross country and field hockey registration had just opened. Games against other NEC schools were scheduled to begin the following week.

Athletic Director Greg Siglarski presented the MIAA’s new four-season structure for 2020–21 (Fall 1: Sept. 18–Nov. 20; Winter: Nov. 30–Feb. 21; Fall 2/Floating: Feb. 22–Apr. 25; Spring: Apr. 26–Jul. 3). Football, cheer, and unified basketball were designated high-risk by the EEA and moved statewide to Fall 2.

Current status: Seven other NEC schools had voted to play Fall 1 (Beverly, Danvers, Gloucester, Masconomet, Peabody, Salem, Swampscott). Lynn Classical, Lynn English, and Winthrop are red-zone communities and cannot participate. Danvers will not begin practice until October 5.

Volleyball was noted as a Fall 1 sport, but no NEC schools are playing it in Fall 1 because indoor facilities are not yet available; Marblehead cannot access its building until October 5. The committee agreed volleyball would move to Fall 2.

Logistics discussed:

• Practices begin September 23; two full weeks required before first game (October 7 eligibility)
• Athletic directors meeting September 18 to build schedule, aiming to limit to one away program per day per bus
• Locker rooms entirely off-limits; students bring athletic bags home daily
• Daily symptom and temperature checks recorded for every athlete before each practice or game
• Masks required at all times on school grounds and park/rec facilities; mask breaks permitted beyond 10 feet
• Parent transport waiver being explored, with no carpooling with other families
• METCO student transportation: Director Jasmine Michael confirmed a call with Siglarski scheduled to work out transportation options; BPS provides bus passes for grades 7–12

A committee member (David Harris) expressed concern that Marblehead was the ‘last school’ to vote rather than taking a leadership role. Siglarski responded that Marblehead’s meeting date simply fell last and that other NEC schools voted only days earlier.

Vote: Motion by Megan Taylor, seconded by Emily Baron. Passed 5-0.

Superintendent Bucky introduced the context: the Northeastern Conference (NEC) voted 9-3 in August to postpone fall sports to the ‘Fall Two’ flex season (Feb. 22 – Apr. 25). That decision was made by athletic directors and principals without full school committee awareness; NEC superintendents subsequently agreed to re-examine the decision.

Principal Dan Bauer’s backstory:

• On August 18 the MIAA/DESE created a flex season structure and waived Rule 40 (allowing out-of-season practices)
• At the time of the NEC vote, 5 of 12 schools were in the red (ineligible), 5 more were starting fully remote (requiring school committee approval to play), and only 2 were in hybrid
• Transportation capacity cut in half raised logistical and liability concerns
• Coaches on the planning subcommittee supported the ADs’ recommendation
• A reconvening meeting of NEC principals was tentatively set for Tuesday or Wednesday of the following week

Athletic Director Greg described MIAA sports-medicine guidelines for any fall participation:

• Temperature checks and symptom checklists before every practice and game
• No locker room use; athletic bags must be disinfected and kept 6 feet apart
• Face coverings required for athletes, coaches, and officials at nearly all times
• Sport-specific modifications: soccer broken into four quarters with a freshly disinfected ball each quarter; volleyball requires a new ball after every rally and players must stay 3 feet from the net
• Fans must be socially distanced and masked; leagues to set their own spectator policies
• Masco (a neighboring district) had already voted to play fall sports, though without NEC opponents it would be difficult to schedule games

Superintendent Bucky’s framing for the committee vote:

• Because Marblehead’s hybrid model begins October 5 (not fully remote), a school committee vote is required to authorize interscholastic athletics under DESE guidelines
• Starting October 2 gives two weeks of school before students return to allow safety systems to settle
• The vote tonight is not a commitment to play — it is a directive to explore feasibility

Motion (as amended): Direct NEC principals and athletic directors to re-engage the conference to see if there is a viable path to a modified fall one sports season beginning October 2.

Vote on amendment (adding October 2 date): 5-0 Vote on amended motion: 5-0

Committee members expressed confidence in Bauer and Greg’s judgment and noted that any athletics decision must not jeopardize in-person schooling.