Public Meetings - Bourne, Massachusetts

The Bourne Select Board met at 7:00 p.m. on August 18, 2026, to address a range of topics including urgent public safety staffing concerns, a significant budget shortfall for FY28, a school classroom lease proposal, and annual goal setting. The meeting included public testimony, votes on several items, and a discussion on the town’s fiscal outlook. Public Comments & Testimony - Rich Russell described a severe boat fire incident on August 8, 2026, at Monument Beach Marina. He stated that due to inadequate staffing at the Monument Beach station, an ambulance had to come from Buzzards Bay, crossing the Bourne Bridge during peak traffic. The victim suffered for 30–40 minutes before being loaded. He formally requested an immediate review of fire and EMS staffing across all town stations, emphasizing that “minutes do matter in medical emergencies.” - Scott Meyer supported Russell, noting that Bourne’s three stations each have only one person, forcing fire apparatus and ambulances to compete for the same personnel. He cited a 35% increase in runs since 2011 with less staffing, described a recent one-person response to a house fire and a propane tank fire, and recounted a personal incident where his wife’s emergency required him to drive her to the hospital due to expected 25-minute ambulance delay. He urged the board to make public safety the priority. - John York thanked the board for prioritizing a memorandum of understanding with MassDOT regarding the bridges. He expressed concern that the town administrator’s disbanding of the bicycle/pedestrian committee may leave Bourne unrepresented on the stakeholder advisory group during the critical period when construction plans are finalized for bid, risking loss of input on pedestrian and bicycle interests. - David O’Connell corroborated the boat fire details, stating family members witnessed a 30-minute wait for an ambulance while the victim suffered severe burns. The vehicle could not even enter the neighborhood due to sightseers. He asked what investigation and action would be taken. - Jane O’Connell added that a firefighter arrived on foot (no apparatus), there was no police presence, and neighbors had to direct traffic. She called the situation “just not okay.” Discussion Items - Construction Access (Electric Beach to 23 Nick Better Road) – A property owner requested permission to bring a small rubber-tracked excavator across town property at low tide for revetment work. The board unanimously approved, provided the standard access agreement is executed. (Motion by MJ, second by Meyer; 5-0 vote) - Conservation Restriction (53 MacArthur Boulevard) – Brian Madden (LEC Environmental) explained a 16.79-acre conservation restriction for rare species habitat and wetlands, approved by the Conservation Commission on August 6. The select board unanimously voted to execute and affirm the CR. (Motion by Anne Marie, second by MJ; 5-0 vote) - Canal Day Event Amendment (No Parking Zones) – Marie Oliva (Cape Cod Canal Region Chamber of Commerce) requested no parking signs on all Taylor's Point roads for Canal Day (September 19, 2026, rain date September 20) to prevent blocked access, following a request from the Taylor's Point Association. Some board members expressed concern about fairness to other neighborhoods (e.g., Cohasset Ave, Lafayette) that also experience parking impacts, and about town costs for sign placement and enforcement. The board approved the request with the understanding that the chamber will coordinate with the police department on costs and that a broader parking policy discussion is needed in the future. (Motion by Peter, second by MJ; 5-0 vote) - FY28 Budget Discussion – Town Administrator Marlene (last name not provided) warned that the town likely cannot fund a level-service budget for FY28 without an operational override. She asked the board for direction: either a budget with service reductions to avoid an override, or a level-service budget with a commitment to seek an override at the May town meeting. The board discussed the need to tie dollars to tangible benefits, the importance of educating the public, and the risks of a failed override. A consensus emerged to prepare a level-service budget (which will be unbalanced and require additional revenue), while continuing public discussions about costs and priorities. Board member MJ emphasized the need for a clear explanation of what services an override would fund and what cuts would occur if it fails. The town administrator confirmed she will proceed with a level-service budget that will not be balanced, to be presented in January. - Lease of Classroom Space (Bourndale Elementary for Pre-K) – Superintendent (name not provided) described a one-year pilot lease with Champions (a for-profit provider) to create a full-day, full-week pre-K wraparound program. The school committee already approved, but the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) requested select board approval due to regulatory language referencing “town or city.” The board discussed whether they had legal authority to approve such a lease. After debate, they voted to state that the select board does not have the authority to take a vote on this lease. (Motion to declare lack of authority; second by Gene; voted 5-0) - Annual Select Board Goals (FY27) – The board reviewed and voted on annual goals before the September 1 charter deadline. Priority 3 (watershed permitting) was discussed separately due to a potential conflict of interest (see below). The motion to approve priorities 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, and 7 passed unanimously. Priority 3 was then voted on separately; Peter and MJ abstained (citing potential conflict), while Gene, Melissa, and Anne Marie voted in favor, resulting in a 3-2 approval. - Town Administrator Report – The town administrator reported that House Bill 4992 (Article 97 special legislation for acquiring the Dr. Julius Kelly Lane property) was signed on August 7; drainage repairs on Route 6 westbound planned for August 19; Chief Cannabis received state approval and had a soft opening; and the new fire station construction is proceeding with clearing and grubbing beginning this week and a temporary easement for Eversource to be sought at town meeting. - Watershed Permitting RFQ Update – The town administrator reported that three firms responded to the RFQ. Caitlin Shea recused herself due to her family owning property in the Finney’s Harbor watershed; Stacey Burgess will replace her on the review team. Two firms tied for first place; one of them has a principal who also resides in the watershed. The board’s legal counsel advised that the principal should seek a written ethics opinion before proceeding with interviews. Interviews scheduled for Thursday were postponed pending resolution. Key Outcomes - Unanimously approved construction access at Electric Beach (5-0). - Unanimously approved conservation restriction at 53 MacArthur Boulevard (5-0). - Unanimously approved Canal Day no-parking amendment on Taylor's Point (5-0). - Directed town administrator to prepare a level-service budget for FY28 that will require an operational override, with ongoing public discussion. - Voted to declare the select board lacks authority to approve the pre-K classroom lease (5-0). - Approved annual goals (priorities 1,2,4,5,6,7) unanimously; approved priority 3 (watershed permitting) with a 3-2 vote (Peter and MJ abstaining). - Accepted the town administrator’s report. - Delayed watershed permitting RFQ interviews pending ethics review for one tied firm. - Future agenda items will include public safety staffing/budget, a historic commission presentation on the town seal, and updates from the affordable housing trust on the old police station property.

The Bourne Planning Board held its regular open session at 7 p.m. on August 6, 2026, recorded for live broadcast and televised replay on Bourne TV. The agenda included welcoming the new Building Commissioner, approving the July 23, 2026 meeting minutes, considering a cash bond release for One Katie Marie Drive, and discussing a range of future zoning and infrastructure topics. Note: The raw transcript recites the date as Thursday, August 13th, 2026, but the supplied meeting timestamp is 2026-08-06; this summary uses the supplied date. Introduction of New Building Commissioner - Eleanor McKay, the town’s new Building Commissioner, introduced herself. She is an architect with over 35 years of experience and a Bachelor of Architecture from Roger Williams University, licensed since 1997. Her municipal experience includes zoning enforcement in Falmouth, zoning/affordable housing work in Hingham, service on the Duxbury Finance Committee, and work in Harwich. - She expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with the Planning Board and town staff, and described her approach to code enforcement: everyone should play by the same rules, and she prefers to investigate, talk with property owners, and reach resolutions. - Board members welcomed her and discussed the need for follow-through on conditions attached to approvals, including certificate-of-occupancy review. A plan was mentioned for enforcement issues to be routed through Town Planner Jen, with the Commissioner reporting back in about a month. Minutes - Motion to approve the July 23, 2026 minutes was made by Chris and seconded by Jim. Board members Steve, Stock, Chris, and the Chair voted yes; Mandy abstained because she was not present. Minutes were approved. Bond Release – One Katie Marie Drive (Map 35, Parcel 12) - Staff reported completing a site inspection on August 6, 2026. The parcel, developed as The Shed Place, received site plan review in November 2005, a certificate of occupancy in February 2008, and was recently sold by Ralph Bartlett to a new owner. - Staff found the office, shed display areas, retaining walls, lighting, and signage sufficient. However, several plantings were missing—about four or five—and a weeping willow was missing from the west side; two small dirt piles also need better maintenance. - The cash bond is in Ralph Bartlett’s name and does not transfer with the property, so the new owner is not obligated under the bond. The new property owner was identified in discussion as Pine Harbor. The board voted to release the cash bond plus interest and to send the new property owner a letter of encouragement regarding landscaping and cleanup. Future Zoning Changes and Other Business - The Chair said Town Planner Jen would send a preliminary wish list of possible zoning bylaw changes for a future Town Meeting, including cleanup of defunct provisions and larger topics such as the Seasonal Communities Act, tiny homes, ADU regulations, and Chapter 48 / Affordable Homes Act changes. Board members were invited to add suggestions. - The board discussed recent amendments to M.G.L. c. 40A effective July 1, 2026, and the possibility of inviting Town Counsel to brief the Planning Board and ZBA. - Plans were shared to request an update from the Cape Cod Commission on bridge-related planning and to send the Select Board recommendations for incorporation into a state MOU. Board members raised infrastructure considerations for the bridges, including sewer and water piping and a first-responder communications repeater. - Discussion on the Joint Base Cape Cod included the ongoing base master plan update, roughly 200 acres proposed for divestment, the 22,000-acre base, and tours scheduled in August, September, and October. Members discussed potential town interests such as housing, technology park use, solar fields, cemetery space, and regional sewer expansion. A prior multi-town sewage-sharing proposal was recalled as unsuccessful because four municipalities had different approaches. Key Outcomes - Approved the July 23, 2026 minutes. - Released the cash bond plus interest for One Katie Marie Drive and directed a letter to the new owner about property upkeep. - Agreed to review the zoning wish list at future meetings and consider requesting presentations from Town Counsel and the Cape Cod Commission. - Reminded the board of the September 8 joint meeting with the Select Board to appoint the Planning Board alternate position; the meeting will be Zoom-only, and five members had confirmed a quorum.

The Bourne Select Board convened on July 28, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. The meeting included public comments, appointments to fill vacancies, approval of a special event, updates on capital projects, and discussion of a letter to MassDOT regarding the Sagamore Bridge design. The board also ratified a union MOU and heard reports from committees and the town administrator. Consent Calendar - Unanimous approval of the consent agenda, including the ratification of a memorandum of understanding with the Bourne Patrolman's Association (Local 60) for FY2026–2028. Public Comments & Testimony - John York (Bourne resident) urged the board to carefully read the forthcoming final environmental impact statement for the Bourne Bridge, expressing disappointment that MassDOT dismissed requests for improved bicycling and pedestrian facilities from Pan Mass Challenge affiliates during the draft review. - Stephen Exaros (State Representative) thanked the board for the recent Bourne High School meeting with MassDOT on the bridge project, offered continued legislative support, and presented a gubernatorial proclamation for the 250th anniversary of Independence Day. He also voiced support for the upcoming K9 Heroes 5K race walk. - Peter Murder (Bourne resident) requested the board create a more formal venue for community engagement on town issues, noting high public interest (e.g., 40 attendees at the prior meeting, thousands of Facebook views on bridge posts) and low voter turnout (about 400 in the last election). Discussion Items - Vacancies on Planning Board and School Committee: The board voted to advertise and post both vacancies, with letters of interest due by noon on September 2, 2026. Interviews will be held via Zoom on September 8, 2026 (jointly with the respective boards). - K9 Heroes 5K Race Walk: Representatives James LeMontin (K9 PTSD Research Center) and Rep. Exaros described the event supporting retired police and military canines. The race will take place on October 18, 2026, using town roads and the school parking lot (approved by the school department). The board unanimously approved the road use. - Police Station Roof Building Committee: MJ reported the committee interviewed three firms for owner's project manager (OPM) and recommended Palmer Associates. The board voted to authorize the town administrator to negotiate a contract with Palmer Associates. - Icewind Building Committee Update (Asa Mintz): The Office Maintenance Garage is underway (foundations, drainage, utility work). The Transfer Station design is in development (estimated cost $14.25 million, excluding A&E services); however, permitting with DEP has caused a 6–9 month delay due to an unusually thorough review. The town may face a gap without a transfer station. Site assignment with the Board of Health is ongoing. Mintz also noted that a proposed cut-through road on Route 28 (south end) to ease local traffic was deemed operationally impractical for the transfer station due to scale location and traffic mixing. - Engineering Updates (Tim Laden): - Road Takings: The board approved executing orders of taking for Daniel Webster Lane and Spinnaker Lane (Cassett Woods) – first voluntary road acceptances in 40 years. Betterment documents will follow. - Temporary Road Betterments: An estimated order of assessment for repairs/resurfacing of Terra Terrace, Eldridge Street, and Eldridge Extension was approved. - Hen Cove Stormwater Project: Laden reported substantial completion, with jellyfish treatment chambers installed but not yet activated. Final paving and landscape work are expected by mid-September. Two chambers are high; one is low – adjustments will be made during overlay. The project is on track to mitigate beach closures from bacteria runoff. - Sagamore Bridge Design Public Hearing – Select Board Letter Discussion: The board reviewed a draft letter to MassDOT (deadline August 6, 2026). Key revisions included: specifying the letter is from the Bourne Select Board; changing “understand” to “assured” regarding uninterrupted emergency access; and softening language on financial mitigation – replacing “disappointed that financial mitigation is not feasible” with a statement acknowledging mitigation funds are not currently available but the town is committed to working with MassDOT to protect residents’ quality of life. The letter also requests a formal MOU. The revised letter was approved unanimously. Item 12 (related to bridge issues) was tabled to a future meeting with all five members. Key Outcomes - Approved the posting of Planning Board and School Committee vacancies (letters due Sept. 2, interviews Sept. 8). - Approved use of town roads for the K9 Heroes 5K on October 18, 2026 (unanimous). - Approved authorizing the town administrator to negotiate an OPM contract with Palmer Associates for the police station roof project (unanimous). - Approved executing orders of taking for Daniel Webster Lane and Spinnaker Lane (unanimous). - Approved the estimated order of betterments for Terra Terrace, Eldridge Street, and Eldridge Extension (unanimous). - Approved the submittal letter to MassDOT regarding the Sagamore Bridge design (as amended; unanimous). - Tabled the discussion on Item 12 (bridge-related) until the next meeting with all board members present. - Approved the minutes of July 21, 2026; minutes of July 10 were tabled for corrections. - Ratified the FY2026–2028 MOU with the Bourne Patrolman's Association as part of the consent agenda. - Next regular meeting: August 18, 2026; September 8 (virtual only), 22, and 29; October 13 (town meeting) and 19.

(Note: The transcript records this meeting as July 21, 2026, but the provided date is used per instruction. All times and references from the source material reflect July 21; the discrepancy is acknowledged.) The Bourne Select Board convened on July 14, 2026 (recorded as July 21) to appoint a veterans trustee, approve a Pan-Mass Challenge route change, set the fall town meeting date, confirm a special alcohol license, and hold an extensive discussion on the Sagamore Bridge replacement project, including public comments and authorization for board representatives to speak at the upcoming MassDOT hearing. Consent Calendar - The select board approved the consent agenda as presented (motion by Peter Meyer, second by Anne Marie, voice vote unanimous). - Approvals included routine items such as the use of Violet’s Landing for the Pocasset Load Association’s annual picnic on August 15, 2026. - Minutes from June 30 and July 7, 2026 meetings were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - The chair allowed limited public comment on the bridge project after noting it was not a public hearing. Each speaker was given two minutes. Key comments: - John Duggan (Planning Board): Requested that MassDOT not schedule hearings on planning board meeting nights. - Chris (unidentified): Expressed support for the board and advocacy for Bourne’s interests. - Peter Murner: Clarified social media posts were to encourage attendance, not spread misinformation. - Chris Farrell: Criticized MassDOT as the “department of no,” emphasized local road protection, and advocated for commuter rail. - Barry Keeney (Pocasset): Urged a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with MassDOT and professional planning help. - Paul Alfano: Proposed mitigation demands including a mobile library, local business commitments, and compensation for tax revenue loss from property takings. - Meg Good Murner (PTA Chair): Highlighted school bus delays of up to two hours in June and demanded a school transportation plan. - Bob Dwyer (Pocasset): Stressed the need for professional planning assistance paid from the project budget. - John (no surname): Emphasized the value of formal town comments and requested accessible data presentation. - Jim Core (Eleanor Ave resident): Expressed fears about property access, income loss, vibrations, safety, and lack of communication. - Judith (Sagamore Beach): Called for identified point people and professional support. - Margaret Dowd: Suggested installing sewer infrastructure during bridge work. Discussion Items - Appointment of Harold Skelton to Veterans Community Building Board of Trustees: Mr. Skelton, an Iraqi veteran and founder of “Fishing for the Mission,” spoke of his experience. The joint meeting with trustees resulted in a unanimous roll-call vote appointing him to a term ending May 18, 2027. - Pan-Mass Challenge Route Change (August 1–2, 2026): A representative requested cyclists use Tower Lane instead of Academy Drive due to construction. The board approved with an added condition: a reverse-911 call to Tower Lane residents. Motion by Peter Meyer, second by Jean, voice vote unanimous. - State Primary Election Warrant (September 1, 2026): The board approved the warrant listing precinct polling locations and offices. Motion by Peter Meyer, second by Anne Marie, unanimous. - Appointment of Wayne Sampson as Town Moderator: Mr. Sampson, with over 50 years in public service, offered to step down from other committees to avoid conflicts. Unanimously appointed to serve until the next annual election. - Fall Town Meeting Date: Set for October 19, 2026, after confirming availability with the new moderator. Motion by Peter Meyer, second by Anne Marie, unanimous. - Special Act License for Atomic Fish (H5347): The board confirmed its previous vote to approve the text of the alcoholic beverage license. Unanimous. - Sagamore Bridge Replacement – Select Board Discussion: Board members expressed disappointment with MassDOT’s draft design, particularly traffic management, pedestrian/bike access, and lack of communication. Key topics included: need for an MOU, design-build oversight, emergency access, school coordination, cultural and environmental protections, traffic modeling, and mitigation. Peter Meyer and Anne Marie were authorized to present the board’s comments at the July 23 public hearing (unanimous vote). - Update on MOU Request to Cape Cod Commission: The commission received the request and will identify areas where it can assist (excluding legal advice). - Retreat Debrief and Goals: The board reviewed its July 10 retreat, noting progress on communication. A draft code of conduct from Westboro was considered; the board agreed to discuss it further via the policy subcommittee. Retreat goals were revised to include quantifiable targets for bridge MOU and capital planning. - Watershed Permit Update: A grant from DEP was not extendable and expired. An RFQ for consultant services is out, responses due August 7. The board adopted a longer goal statement for watershed permit advancement. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approvals: Harold Skelton appointment, Pan-Mass Challenge route change (with reverse-911 condition), primary election warrant, Wayne Sampson as town moderator, fall town meeting date (October 19, 2026), and special act license confirmation. - Authorization: Peter Meyer and Anne Marie were unanimously authorized to represent the select board at the MassDOT public hearing on July 23, 2026. - Directives: The town administrator will incorporate the longer watershed permit goal into the board’s goals and circulate it for refinement. The policy subcommittee will further discuss a code of conduct and revisions to rules of procedure. - Next steps: The board will continue MOU discussions with the Cape Cod Commission and prepare for the July 23 public hearing.

This meeting of the Bourne Planning Board was held on July 14, 2026. The board approved meeting minutes, accepted the withdrawal of a definitive subdivision application based on a town council determination of buildability, and approved a site plan review and special permit for a mixed-use development at 74 Cranberry Highway. Meeting Minutes Approval - Minutes from June 25, 2026: Motion to approve as presented by Chris, seconded by Dave. Unanimous vote (5 out of 6 members present voted yes). Definitive Subdivision Withdrawal – 115 Red Brook Harbor Road - Project Update: Jim (board member) reported that the property at 115 Red Brook Harbor Road, initially thought to lack proper frontage for building, was confirmed as a buildable lot by town council on July 21, 2026, after extensive research by the applicant's attorney from Dalton and Feingold and review by town counsel. The applicant subsequently withdrew the definitive subdivision application. - Public Comment: Sarendra Shah, a neighbor at 121 Red Brook Harbor Road, expressed pleasure with the town council's decision and thanked the planning board for their responsiveness. - Votes: The board voted unanimously to accept the withdrawal (motion by Chris, second by Dave; roll call: all yes). The board then voted unanimously to accept the town council's determination that the lot is buildable (motion by Chris, second by Dave; roll call: all yes). Site Plan Review & Special Permit – 74 Cranberry Highway (SPR/SP 6-2026) - Project Description: John Lovell of Baxter 9 Engineering and Dennis Kirkado of Bay Ridge Realty LLC presented a continued application for a village mixed-use development at 74 Cranberry Highway, located in the B-2 and R40 districts. The proposal includes four contractor/storage bays on the first floor and four residential dwellings (two one-bedroom units and two one-bedroom units with flex areas) on the second floor. - Board Discussion: - Parking: Steve stated parking calculations were adequate and compliant with zoning by-laws. - Retaining Wall: A condition was added requiring final engineered plans submitted prior to building permit. - Lighting: Board discussed lighting details; applicant confirmed fixtures will be black, aimed downward to minimize glare. A condition for pole color matching was noted. - Landscaping: Board requested a revised tree planting detail including slow-release irrigation bags (e.g., tree gator) and a three-year maintenance period for all plantings. Applicant agreed to submit these along with wall design. - Motion for Approval: Steve moved to approve site plan review and special permit number 6-2026, subject to 13 conditions (including the above). The motion was seconded by Dave and approved unanimously in a roll call vote. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved (5-0). - Subdivision withdrawal accepted (unanimous). - Town council's buildability determination accepted (unanimous). - Site plan review and special permit approved (unanimous) with conditions including final wall plans, revised tree planting detail with irrigation bags, and three-year plant maintenance. Note: The transcript references July 23, 2026, but the instruction specifies the meeting date as July 14, 2026. This summary uses the provided date.

The Bourne Select Board met on June 30, 2026, to discuss a range of topics including a reconsideration request regarding food trucks at the Canal Region Farmers Market, special event permits, accessible parking at the community center, and Chapter 90 funding for road paving. The meeting also included public comments, policy discussions, and planning for fall town meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Vincent McKenzie spoke about the 4th of July parade, stating that police blocked access for workers and property owners. He requested a meeting with the police and selectmen to establish protocols for future parades. Discussion Items - Farmers Market Food Truck Reconsideration: Member M.J. Mistrangelo requested reconsideration of the March 3rd approval of the Cape Cod Canal Region Farmers Market special event, citing that the addition of food trucks was a change not properly noticed on the consent agenda. Town Counsel Brian Bertram explained that the town's special events policy is silent on food trucks and that the food trucks may be located on non-town property (Army Corps land). After extensive public comment from both supporters (farmers market organizers, food truck owners) and opponents (Chamber of Commerce, brick-and-mortar businesses), the board decided not to rescind the permit and instead referred the policy issue to the policy subcommittee. - Finney's Harbor Day Special Event: The board tabled the one-day liquor license for Finney's Harbor Day because the police department had not yet completed its review. The board agreed to schedule an off-cycle meeting (within 48 hours of receiving approvals) to vote on the license. - Accessible Parking at Bourne Community Center: Deb, representing the Council on Aging, requested one additional accessible parking space at the front entrance of the community center. The building commissioner noted the site already exceeds ADA minimums. The board voted 4-0-1 to approve the additional space, with one member abstaining due to policy concerns. The issue of developing a policy for additional accessible parking was referred to the policy subcommittee. - Scholarship Policy: The Recreation Committee presented a scholarship policy to help families cover youth program costs, funded by donations. The board approved the policy as amended (allowing the recreation department to award higher percentages based on need). - Chapter 90 Funding and Road Paving: DPW Director Matt Suwiki presented a multi-year plan using Chapter 90 funds. For FY27, the board approved $2,765,170 for paving of Shore Road (except near Singing Bridge), McGansett Road, Squatee Harbor Road, and Bredbrook Harbor Road, plus $297,000 for Singing Bridge design engineering, and $430,000 for a drainage project on Washburn Street. The approval was unanimous. - Fall Town Meeting Schedule: The town administrator proposed a draft schedule for town meeting on October 19, 2026, pending free cash certification. The board discussed the need to prioritize capital requests between fall and spring. - MassDOT Bridge Design Public Hearing: The board discussed upcoming comments for the 25% design public hearing on July 23. Public commenters urged the board to request a memorandum of understanding with MassDOT before the hearing. The board agreed to place an agenda item for the July 21 meeting to discuss an MOU request and review any materials from MassDOT. - Watershed Permitting Consultant RFQ Review Team: The board decided on a staff-driven review team for evaluating RFQs, consisting of the DPW director, health director, an engineer, and select board member Gene as the board representative. Key Outcomes - The board took no action on the food truck reconsideration, allowing the farmers market to proceed, and referred policy development to the subcommittee. - Approved one additional accessible parking space at the Bourne Community Center, with policy discussion to follow. - Approved the scholarship policy for recreation programs. - Approved FY27 Chapter 90 funding allocations as presented by the DPW director. - Tabled the Finney's Harbor Day liquor license pending police review, with a plan for a special meeting. - Directed the town administrator to proceed with a staff review team for the watershed permitting RFQ, with Gene as the board representative. - Scheduled future agenda items for July 21 to discuss MassDOT MOU and review materials for the July 23 public hearing.

The Bourne Select Board met on June 30, 2026, starting at 6:30 PM and resuming at 7:00 PM after a brief pause. The meeting covered a wide range of topics including watershed permit recusal, a draft RFQ for engineering services, memorial bench donation, cannabis establishment updates, special legislation for a liquor license, FY2025 financial audit, budget transfers, special events, a police safety update, engineering projects, discussion on the Cape Cod Bridges program, land sale, town seal redesign, and Upper Cape Tech enrollment. Multiple votes were taken, and several public comments were heard. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved with one amendment correcting a rain date from September 21 to September 20, 2026. - Minutes from previous meetings were approved. Public Comments & Testimony - David Alessi spoke in favor of a memorial bench for his mother at Buzzards Bay Park, describing her love for bicycling along the canal. The board accepted the donation. - Kevin from Cape Way Cannabis reported that the store opened last Thursday (June 25, 2026), with 80% Bourne residents employed and 65% women. - Michael Canhant from Bourne Cannabis provided an update on construction progress, targeting an April 2027 opening. - Mike Allen from Chief Cannabis (via Zoom) stated they are very close to opening, hoping for a final license by July 9, 2026, and operations in August. - Ryan McCarthy from New England Open Markets presented the Indie Art by the C vendor market (special event D), noting coordination with police and health departments. - A representative from Ones vs. Hunger proposed a 1v1 basketball tournament to raise money for the Bourne Food Pantry, with entry fees split between the pantry and winners. - Rob Manson advocated for inclusion of the Bourne Rail Trail as mitigation in the bridges project. - John York urged the board to use the MOU to address past issues with MassDOT, particularly pedestrian/bicycle access at Monument Beach and open communication channels. - Peter Burr emphasized the urgency of the MOU, criticizing the Cape Cod Commission for not acting earlier, and urged the board to think holistically about economic and workforce drivers. - Ken supported Rob Manson's comments, stressing the opportunity to design a new rail trail as part of the bridge infrastructure. Discussion Items - Watershed Permit Workshop & Recusal: MJ explained her communications with the ethics commission regarding recusal. She had requested a written opinion on April 30, 2026, but had not yet received a response. She recused herself from the evening's watershed discussion. The board discussed packet distribution and recusal protocols; Marlene clarified that once a member recuses, they should not receive materials in advance. - Draft RFQ for Engineering & Consulting Services: The board reviewed the updated RFQ for the first phase of watershed planning, focusing on baseline data and nitrogen thresholds. They discussed the schedule (responses due early August) and composition of the review team. A motion to accept the RFQ (with standard contract added) passed unanimously. - Memorial Bench Donation: The board approved a donation of a bench in memory of Barbara Lillessy at Buzzards Bay Park, subject to DPW coordination. - Cannabis HCA Updates: Representatives from three establishments provided status updates. Cape Way Cannabis opened June 25; Bourne Cannabis targeting April 2027; Chief Cannabis expecting August 2026 opening. - Special Legislation for Liquor License: The board approved filing legislation for a liquor license at 365 Bottles Landing Road, consistent with pending legislation for Katomet Fish, with a three-year reissuance provision after surrender. - FY2025 Financial Audit: Zach Ventross from CLA presented the audit results, noting an unmodified opinion, a clean single audit, an unassigned fund balance of $14.6 million (15.5% of expenditures), and a net OPEB liability of $80.3 million (funded at 13.6%). The town’s financial position was described as strong. - FY26 Budget Year-End Transfers: The board approved transfers of $143,527.74 to cover snow and ice deficit and fire department overtime, as recommended by the finance committee. - Special Events: Four events were approved: a birthday party (A), Dancing Under the Stars (B), Ones vs. Hunger basketball tournament (C) with notification of court closure, and Indie Art by the C vendor market (D) with a banner across Main Street. Discussion included concerns about food trucks and policy review. - Chief's Safety Update: Chief Eazy provided information on heat safety, July 4th parade road closures, enforcement of beach rules (no fires/grills), parking citations, and e-bike regulations. He noted that any e-bike exceeding 20 mph requires a driver's license and registration. - Engineering Updates: Tim Leiden reported substantial completion of the Hen Cove boat ramp (now 4 feet deep) and the stormwater project on Patuisset roads, which will mitigate fecal coliform issues. Road betterments for Terror Terrace were near completion. - Cape Cod Bridges Program: The board discussed a potential Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with MassDOT for the Sagamore and Bourne bridge replacements. Concerns included traffic mitigation, multimodal access, communication, staging, and impacts on neighborhoods. A motion to engage the Cape Cod Commission for assistance passed unanimously. The board also voted to request all documents and agenda items in advance of the July 23 design public hearing. - Land Sale (61A Parcel 665): After receiving no expressions of interest, the board voted not to exercise its right of first refusal on the property at 665 Scenic Highway and 0 Bourndale Road. - Town Seal Redesign: Steve Philbrick (Historic Commission) reported that the commission has contacted a consulting firm that worked on Mashpee's seal. A redesign process will involve community outreach and careful explanation of historical inaccuracies. The board acknowledged the update. - Upper Cape Tech Enrollment: The formation of a subcommittee to address enrollment and assessment issues was noted. The board expressed a desire to foster communication with Upper Cape Tech. Key Outcomes - Motion to accept RFQ for engineering services: Passed unanimously. - Motion to accept memorial bench donation: Passed 4-0 (one member absent). - Motion to file special legislation for liquor license: Passed unanimously. - Motion to approve FY26 budget transfers: Passed unanimously. - Motion to approve consent agenda (with amendment): Passed unanimously. - Motion to engage Cape Cod Commission for MOU on bridges: Passed 5-0. - Motion to request documents and agenda for July 23 design public hearing: Passed unanimously. - Motion not to exercise right of first refusal on 61A parcel: Passed. - Motion to approve meeting minutes: Passed. - Special events A, B, C, D: Each approved individually with voice votes. - Future agenda items: A discussion on pedestrian/bicycle committee and roundabout at Sandwich Road was requested.

Note: The transcript of the meeting references June 23, 2026, but the official record indicates the meeting occurred on June 18, 2026. The Bourne Board of Sewer Commissioners met on June 18, 2026, at 7:00 PM at the Community Building. The meeting was televised, streamed, and recorded. Commissioners present included MJ, Jean, Peter, Melissa (via Zoom), and the Chair. The meeting began with a brief Select Board meeting that approved a special event permit, followed by the Sewer Commissioners' agenda. Key topics included converting an operational allocation to actual flow for Keystone Place, updates on the wastewater treatment facility, and a discussion on the intermunicipal agreement with Wareham. Consent Calendar - Select Board: Unanimous approval of a special event permit for Mitchell Kurtlin to use the Monument Beach baseball fields for a graduation party on June 28, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Peter Murner (resident, Nick Veter Road) addressed both the Select Board and Sewer Commissioners. He expressed disappointment that the Select Board had not yet requested a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with MassDOT regarding the bridge project. He urged the board to add this to the next agenda, citing a recent puddle that caused two-hour delays. He argued that MassDOT's priority is not Bourne residents and that the Conservation Commission had successfully forced MassDOT to not close Canal Road. He also strongly recommended that the Sewer Commissioners write a letter to the Select Board requesting an MOU with MassDevelopment about the redevelopment of 7,000 acres on the base, emphasizing the need for a wastewater treatment solution. Discussion Items - Conversion of Operational Allocation to Actual Flow for Keystone Place (Agenda Item 4): The board considered converting the preliminary allocation of 14,000 gallons per day (GPD) for Keystone Place in Buzzards Bay to actual flow based on a four-year average ranging from 9,140 to 10,800 GPD. No objections were received from the property owner. The board voted unanimously to convert the allocation to actual use. - Update on Cape and Islands Water Protection Fund Subsidy (Agenda Item 5): No new information was received; the item will remain on the agenda. - Status of Wastewater Treatment Facility (Agenda Item 6): Matt reported that the plant was seated and operational, with chemical addition to eliminate foaming and bacteriological issues. The new O&M agreement is expected to improve monitoring. A report from Kubota on membrane conditions is pending. - Intermunicipal Agreement (IMA) with Wareham (Agenda Item 7): The board discussed the 20-year IMA signed in 2010, set to expire in 2030. Commissioners noted that Bourne pays approximately 20% of costs but has no voting representation. They agreed to strategize internally before scheduling a joint meeting with Wareham's Board of Selectmen and Sewer Commissioners, possibly in the fall. The need for a consultant (financial or legal) was raised. The item will remain on the agenda for continued discussion. - Director's Report: Matt reported that the Scenic Park system is fully online (since May 5) with no issues. Two sewer breaks occurred on Ride Lane and Buttermilay in the past week, a rare occurrence. Grinder pump bids are under internal review. Construction updates will be presented in July. Key Outcomes - Unanimous vote (4-0) to convert Keystone Place's operational allocation to actual flow. - Decision to keep the Water Protection Fund subsidy update as a standing agenda item. - Agreement to continue discussions on the IMA with Wareham at future meetings, with a goal of a joint meeting in the fall and possible consultant engagement. - Next meeting scheduled for July 28, 2026, at 7:00 PM. Other Notes - Commissioner Melissa announced that she was attending the Commonwealth Heroin's award ceremony in Boston and recognized four nominees from Barnstable County.

The Bourne Planning Board held a regular meeting on June 18, 2026, at 7:08 PM. The meeting was audio-recorded only due to technical difficulties. The board approved the previous meeting minutes and then considered two site plan review/special permit applications (SPR SP 05-2026 and SPR SP 06-2026) for redevelopment projects in town. The board also discussed concerns about traffic safety around the Cape Cod Canal bridges and the impact on school transportation. Consent Calendar - Minutes from June 11, 2026: A motion to accept the minutes as printed was made by Jim and seconded by Rob. The board voted unanimously (6-0) to approve. Discussion Items 1. SPR SP 05-2026 – 130 MacArthur Boulevard (Amazon Granite) - Applicant Presentation: The applicant, Amazon Granite, seeks to redevelop the former RMA gym site into a granite countertop facility. The project had been continued from May 28, 2026, to finalize drainage design with the Conservation Commission. The applicant reported that the Conservation Commission granted approval after reducing on-site drainage to protect a vernal pool on adjacent property owned by Capeway Cannabis. The applicant coordinated with adjacent property owners (Mr. Howe and Mr. Ferris) regarding off-site drainage. The new design treats only increased pavement and directs overflow toward the vernal pool area. A pre-construction meeting with the conservation agent is planned. - Board Comments: Board member (Doc) requested that the tree caliper on the planting plan be changed from 3 inches to 3 to 3.5 inches to meet the town minimum. Another member (Randy) praised the project for going the extra mile on drainage. The board found the project consistent with zoning requirements. - Vote: A motion to approve the special permit and site plan review was made by Randy and seconded by Jim. The motion carried unanimously (6-0) with 16 conditions, including that the Conservation Commission must be satisfied with drainage installation prior to occupancy. 2. SPR SP 06-2026 – 74 Cranberry Highway (Bay Ridge Realty/ Mixed Use) - Applicant Presentation: The applicant proposes to change the use of a former car wash property to a mixed-use development: four one-bedroom apartments on the second floor and four storage bays on the first floor. The site is 26,000 sq ft in a B2 district, with a non-conforming lot frontage of 70 ft (required 125 ft). Parking: 16 spaces provided (14 required by zoning). The applicant noted reduced impervious area by 9% and improvements to drainage, retaining walls, and landscaping. A new septic system and industrial wastewater holding tank are proposed. The building will feature architectural details consistent with the area. - Board Comments and Concerns: - Planting Plan: Board member (Doc) raised multiple issues: tree caliper should be 3 to 3.5 inches, shrubs should be listed as 24–30 inches (not 3 or 5), and the plant list needs corrected botanical names and spacing. Irrigation was confirmed by the applicant. - Parking: Board member (Steve) noted that the board does not count parking spaces within buildings as part of the required total. He recalculated parking needs based on intended use (storage and residential) and suggested the applicant remove the four spaces shown inside the bays and instead provide them outside, for a total of 12 spaces (8 residential + 4 storage) plus additional parking in front of overhead doors. The applicant agreed to adjust. - Retaining Wall: Concerns were raised about the structural design of the proposed concrete retaining walls (varying from 1.5 ft to 10 ft tall) and the need for a structural engineer's details at the next meeting. - Lighting: No lighting plan was submitted; the board requested catalog cuts and a lighting plan. - MassDOT Coordination: The board advised the applicant to consult with MassDOT, as the state is planning road reconstruction (including new bridges starting 2027) that may affect driveway cuts and site drainage. - Project Leader Stance: The project lead (Chris) stated he was not prepared to make a motion to approve that evening, given the outstanding issues. - Outcome: The board voted unanimously to continue the application to July 23, 2026, to allow the applicant to submit revised plans addressing planting details, parking delineation, retaining wall information, and a lighting plan. 3. Traffic Safety Concerns Around Canal Bridges - Discussion: Board members raised concerns about severe traffic congestion on state roads (Route 6, MacArthur Blvd, etc.) caused by bridge work and accidents, which is causing significant school bus delays (e.g., children arriving 1.5–2 hours late, school start times pushed back). One member shared that his granddaughter missed school days due to the traffic. Another noted that flooding at the Sagamore Bridge has been a recurring issue since the 1970s. - Proposed Action: The board discussed forming a committee or at least compiling a list of concerns and creative mitigation ideas (e.g., using police to escort school buses through rotaries) to present to MassDOT, the school superintendent, and local stakeholders (police, fire, DPW). The chair agreed to reach out to the superintendent and chief of police to explore coordinated action. No formal motion was made; the discussion was for consensus-building. Key Outcomes - SPR SP 05-2026 (130 MacArthur Blvd): Approved unanimously with conditions. - SPR SP 06-2026 (74 Cranberry Highway): Continued to July 23, 2026, for revised plans addressing landscaping, parking layout, retaining wall details, and lighting. - Traffic Safety: The board will liaise with the school superintendent and police chief to develop a formal list of concerns and potential solutions for MassDOT regarding bridge-related traffic and school transportation.