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Manchester-By-The-Sea Select Board Meeting | July 6, 2026
Published: Jul 6, 2026
Town Transitions to Cassella for Waste Collection Amidst Automated Collection Push and Contractual Challenges
The Select Board discussed the ongoing waste disposal and curbside collection contract issues, following the termination of the contract with Republic. The town has entered into a new contract with Cassella, which has taken over services for neighboring communities. The transition to automated collection by September is a major focus, requiring quick decisions on barrel types, sizes, and potential fees. Public input is being sought for these decisions. The town is also addressing the communication gap with residents regarding service changes and is planning informational forums and updates. The new contract with Cassella includes improved terms, such as eliminating labor strikes from force majeure clauses and addressing title of the waste stream. The town faces a significant increase in costs due to rising contract fees and reduced revenue from bag sales.
Select Board Appoints Four New Members to Town Committees
The Select Board appointed four new members to various town committees: Sean Adams to the Sustainability Committee, Ellen Flattley to the Parks and Recreation Committee, Kevin O'Meara to the Historical Commission, and Colby Fingo to the Bike and Ped Committee. The appointments are for fiscal year 2027, with terms varying by committee. The discussion included introductions from the appointees, highlighting their backgrounds, motivations for joining, and relevant experience. Reappointments for existing committee members were also approved.
Building and Electrical Permit Fees Increased; Trash Bag Fee Hike Temporarily Shelved
The Select Board discussed and approved revised building permit fees and electrical permit fees. The building permit fees will increase by approximately 67%, moving from around $400,000 in annual revenue to over $667,000. This brings the fees in line with the average rate charged in comparable communities. Electrical permit fees will increase from $3 to $5. Plumbing fees were previously addressed and are integrated into building permit fees. The Board also decided to put a hold on increasing trash bag fees pending a comprehensive review of the town's trash disposal and automated collection strategy. Discussions also touched upon the capital plan, the need for updated data and clearer presentation of financial impacts, and strategies for grant acquisition.
Unauthorized Brick Sidewalk Installation at One School Street Prompts Legal Review and Potential Removal
The Select Board discussed the matter of an unauthorized brick sidewalk installation at One School Street. The property owner installed the sidewalk without proper town approval or adherence to town specifications. Legal counsel is drafting an agreement that would require the property owner to indemnify the town, pay for any future repairs or removal if the town's standards are not met, and commit to not repeating the offense. The Board acknowledged that the current installation does not meet town standards and must eventually be rectified, with a preference for resolving the issue before winter and potentially recovering legal costs from the property owner. The owner of the adjacent business expressed concern about further disruption if the sidewalk is removed, suggesting a pilot approach to assess its durability and town standards over different seasons.
Critical Drought Level Persists; Water Ban Remains in Effect Pending Pump Replacement
The Select Board reviewed the current drought level, which remains at Level 3 (critical) by the state. A water ban implemented due to a pump issue at the Lincoln Street Well is still in effect. While the town's water sources (Graly Pond) are at good capacity, the reduced pumping capability necessitates the ban. The replacement pump is expected by the end of the week, with installation anticipated by Friday or the following Monday. The Board discussed potentially lifting the ban once the pump is operational and data on water usage reduction is provided. There was also discussion about the nuances of the 'friendly' water ban, which is less restrictive than state requirements, and concerns about watering shrubs and vegetables versus lawns.
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