Public Meetings - Bourne, Massachusetts

The Bourne Select Board met on June 3, 2026, at 7:00 PM. The meeting covered a wide range of topics including public comments on bridge project representation, special legislation for liquor licenses, a Chapter 61A right of first refusal, appointment of a town moderator, updates on the bikeway extension, approval of a rain garden gift, a Fourth of July parade application, committee appointments, a marina expansion update, bond anticipation notes, a SAFER grant application for firefighters, and several routine approvals. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda items as presented, including minutes from May 7, 12, 19, and 26, unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Peter Murner (Bourne resident) urged the board to put on the agenda a request for a host community agreement or memorandum of understanding with MassDOT for the Sagamore and Bourne Bridge projects, citing the need for funding to hire independent experts. He noted that other communities have negotiated such agreements and that the town bears a disproportionate burden of regional facilities. - John York (Bourne resident) seconded these comments, emphasizing that MassDOT respects towns that step up and that a formal channel for public input is needed given the scale of the four bridge interchanges. Discussion Items Special Legislation for Potomac Fish Liquor License (House 5084) - Town Counsel Brian Bertram reported that the bill is before the legislature. The proposed language is a non-transferable license tied to the location, with a three-year window for a new applicant to apply if the license lapses. Patrick Ross (owner) and attorney Adam Barnowski expressed support, noting it honors the town meeting vote. The board voted unanimously to accept the language and forward it to the legislative delegation. Special Legislation for 365 Barlow's Landing Road Liquor License - Arthur Perlin, representing the owner of H&J Convenience, presented proposed language. Board member MJ raised concerns about consistency with the Potomac Fish license, recommending a three-year reissuance limit. The board directed staff to amend the language and return for a vote at the next meeting (June 30). Chapter 61A Right of First Refusal – 665 Scenic Highway - Attorney Bertram explained the 120-day deadline (September 23) and the three options: decline, purchase, or assign. The property is under one acre, has a cell tower, and is not farmland. A motion to notify relevant departments and the open space committee to provide feedback by June 30 passed 3–2. Appointment of Town Moderator - Bertram outlined the statutory process (Chapter 41, Section 11) for filling the vacancy after no candidate was elected. The board voted unanimously (4–0, with one member not voting due to technical issues) to open a 30-day period for letters of intent. Bikeway Advisory Committee Update - Chair Ken Chetlin reported that Phase 1 of the rail-with-trail design (half-mile, estimated $10.1 million) faces community objections and has been delayed. The committee recommended removing phases 3 and 4 from consideration due to high cost and environmental impacts, and suggested exploring a new rail alignment. The committee also proposed reconstitution as a broader bike/ped advisory committee. Public comments from John York and committee member Matt Sylvia supported a wider mandate and strategic decisions on rail and trail. Buzzards Bay Water Quality Coalition – Fourth Rain Garden - Keith Barber requested permission to add a fourth rain garden using leftover funds. The project is under budget, and the site near Pequot and Circuit Road has been approved by the Conservation Commission. The board approved the request unanimously. Fourth of July Parade Application - The parade organizer was absent, so discussion focused on a new request for sponsor advertising signs along Main Street. The board expressed concerns about precedent and lack of detail, and voted to deny that request. All other requests (parade route, banner, t-shirt sales, parking bans, road closures, insurance) were approved unanimously. Shore and Harbor Committee Appointments - Three candidates were interviewed: incumbents David Crane and Paul Forsberg, and new applicant Ben Spaulding. The board voted to appoint Crane and Forsberg (the two senior members), with encouragement for Spaulding to seek other committee openings. Monument Beach Marina Expansion - Director Hannah Lawrence reported that a design contract with Full Infrastructure and Environment has been signed, with a kickoff meeting scheduled for June 12. Marina Regulations (Second Reading) - Proposed revisions, including a reduction in minimum insurance from $1 million to $500,000, were presented. The board voted to waive the third reading and approve the regulations unanimously. Bond Anticipation Notes for Southside Fire Station - Finance Director Erica Fleming reported that $1,553,000 in notes were sold on June 3, with a net interest cost of 2.784%, resulting in savings of $27,000. The board approved the motion unanimously. SAFER Grant Application for Firefighters - Chief Dave Pallonzi detailed a 54% increase in call volume over 20 years, staffing that has not kept pace, and 1,575 overlapping incidents in the past year. He requested support for a grant to fund four additional firefighters (one per shift) with a three-year federal match of $1.1 million and a town share of $728,000. The board voted unanimously to support the application. Future Use of Pocasset Fire Station - The board discussed the current use of the Pocasset station (housing a fire engine and brush truck) and deferred a broader discussion on its post-new-station future to a future meeting. Key Outcomes - Approved: Consent agenda, Potomac Fish liquor license language, rain garden gift, parade application (with denial of sponsor signage), marina regulations, bond anticipation notes, SAFER grant application, and committee appointments (Forsberg, Crane). - Directed: Staff to amend the Barlow's Landing liquor license language and return June 30; notified departments on Chapter 61A property with feedback due June 30; opened 30-day period for moderator applications. - Tabled: Discussion of Fourth of July fireworks (number two) until July 10. - Noted: County Commission meeting date conflicts; will request rescheduling. - Next Meetings: July 7 and 21, August 4 and 18; Sewer Commission meeting the week of June 16.

On May 20, 2026, at 2:30 PM, the Bourne Select Board convened a continued discussion regarding Keith Field, access pathways, and parking associated with the Cape Cod Bridges project. The meeting included representatives from MassDOT, the Recreation Committee, and town officials. The board considered a de minimis impact determination letter for a shared use path and addressed community concerns about safety, parking, and long-term impacts. Public Comments & Testimony - Several members of the public, including residents and Recreation Committee members, expressed concerns about the proposed parking across Sandwich Road, citing safety risks for children and families. They emphasized the need for a safe, accessible shared use path and supported the Recreation Committee's recommendations for improvements to Keith Field. - John York, a member of the public, raised questions about the scope of the 4F letter and whether it covers all impacts to Keith Field from the bridge project. Discussion Items - MassDOT Presentation: James David, Cape Cod Project Manager, and Louisa Kywski from MassDOT summarized that after receiving overwhelming concern from the town, they withdrew the proposal to replace informal parking at Keith Field with formal parking across the street. They proposed a permanent bicycle and pedestrian link from Sandwich Road to the South Canal Service Road and sought the town's agreement in principle on the link. - Select Board Comments: Members expressed support for the shared use path but raised concerns about the lack of comprehensive information on impacts to Sandwich Road, traffic, and other community aspects. They emphasized the need for a memorandum of understanding with MassDOT to address all impacts. - Recreation Committee Recommendations: The committee presented a list of improvements for Keith Field, including ADA-compliant walkways, drainage assessment, expansion of accessible seating, and maximization of parking. They stressed the importance of safe access without requiring children to cross the street. - Legal and Permitting Clarifications: MassDOT explained that the 4F de minimis letter is a federal permit requirement specific to the shared use path and not the entire project. The board discussed the need for town counsel to review the letter to ensure it is limited to the path. Key Outcomes - Motion Passed: The Select Board voted unanimously to concur with the determination that the use of Keith Field for the shared use path will not adversely affect the activities, features, and attributes that qualify the resource for protection under Section 4F, subject to town council concurrence. The board authorized the chair to sign the May 15, 2026, de minimis impact determination letter, contingent on confirmation from town counsel that the letter pertains only to the shared use path. - Next Steps: The board agreed to continue working with the Recreation Committee and MassDOT on the committee's recommendations for Keith Field. A follow-up workshop was proposed to address other community concerns, including impacts on the north side of the canal and service road closures. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at approximately 3:30 PM.

The Bourne Planning Board met publicly at 7:00 p.m. at the Bourne Veterans Memorial Community Building. No agenda or minutes were available; this summary is based on the raw transcript. The supplied timestamp says May 13, 2026, while the transcript itself says May 28, 2026. The board re-elected officers, approved prior minutes, and took action on four applications: a cannabis dispensary site plan, a fish market/package store parking expansion, a granite countertop facility request scheduled for continuance, and a proposed amendment to a Scenic Highway shared driveway that was denied. Consent Calendar - Officers: The board re-elected the sitting chair by unanimous vote. Chris was elected vice chair; Rob was elected secretary; both votes were unanimous. - Minutes: The April 9, 2026 meeting minutes were approved as printed on a motion by Jim, seconded by Mandy. Catherine, Jim, and the chair voted yes; Rob, Chris, and Doc abstained; Mandy voted as present. Public Comments & Testimony - Diane Johnson, a resident of the condo complex abutting 694 MacArthur Boulevard, asked about security fencing near the residential buffer. In response, the applicant agreed to install a six-foot chain-link fence with privacy slats along the westerly property line. - No members of the public offered comments on the 1360 Route 28A application or the Scenic Highway amendment. Discussion Items SPR/SP 02-2026 - 694 MacArthur Boulevard (Bourne Cannabis) - The applicant, represented by Eric Dias of Strong Point Engineering with ownership partners Janish Patel and Mike Kinahan, sought site plan and special permit approval to redevelop a 6,475-square-foot former auto-repair building into an adult-use cannabis retail store on a 28,799-square-foot parcel in the B-2 and Marijuana Overlay District. The special permit was required because the lot is in the Water Resource District with impervious coverage above 40%. - Board member Steve recused himself from the discussion, debate, and vote, citing a family financial interest in the business. - The applicant stated the project would invest approximately $2-3 million, create 20-30 jobs with benefits including health coverage, a matching 401(k), and housing/down-payment assistance, and that at least 50% of projected sales would be online orders. The traffic study projected zero impact on everyday traffic. No cultivation would occur on site. - The applicant proposed reducing impervious cover from 70.7% to 66.1%, installing a new Title V septic system, piping roof runoff into an underground infiltration system, and completing landscaping and lighting upgrades. - Board discussion raised deficiencies in the landscape schedule: shrubs were not listed at the town-required 24-inch minimum, shade trees were specified too generally, and the board asked for a revised plant schedule within two weeks, Gator bags for trees, and notification to planning staff before plant delivery and certificate-of-occupancy application. - The board closed the public hearing and approved the site plan and special permit with conditions, including the revised landscape plan, the privacy-slat fence, and submission of Cannabis Control Commission licensing documents before occupancy. The vote was unanimous among participating members; Steve did not participate. SPR/SP 04-2026 - 1360 Route 28A (Atomic Fish / Cataumet fish market) - Owners Patrick and Jenny Ross requested a special permit to add 11 gravel parking spaces on the side and rear of the existing fish market building to support an approved package store license. No building footprint changes were proposed. - Mr. Ross explained that the package store license had been approved in January 2023 but held up in appeals, and the select board had required site plan review of parking as a condition. - The board requested a landscape plan with roughly four shade trees and 33 shrubs, wheel stops on both the paved front lot and the rear gravel lot, screening of dumpsters, parking signage, and careful placement of trees relative to the food trailer maneuvering area. Members also discussed drainage, erosion, and the visual buffer between the market and the adjacent courtyard. - The public hearing brought no public comments. The board approved the special permit with conditions, including the landscaping and wheel-stop requirements. The vote was unanimous. SPR/SP 05-2026 - 130 MacArthur Boulevard (Amazon Granite) - Robert DeWar of Bracken Engineering, joined by owner Ani Braga and contractor Celio De Silva, presented plans to relocate an existing granite countertop business from Clay Pond Road to a 7,700-square-foot building on a 62,800-square-foot parcel. The applicant requested special permits for retail sales over 1,600 square feet, manufacturing, increased impervious surface in the 50-foot MacArthur Boulevard buffer, and removal of eight trees for an outdoor stone display. - The applicant acknowledged the project was still being revised with the Conservation Commission because the adjacent wetland/vernal pool is fed only by runoff and the site currently has no stormwater management. Proposed improvements included a Title V septic system, roof-runoff infiltration, a tree box filter, treatment and recharge of new impervious areas, and an overflow for large storms while maintaining the vernal pool. - Board members generally supported the project but asked about drainage, lighting spill, facade colors, and the 50-foot setback policy. The applicant requested a continuance. - The board voted unanimously to continue the hearing to June 25, 2026. SP 03-2021B Amendment - 431, 451, 461, and 471 Scenic Highway - Applicant Adam Flynn, representing Thomas Pappas, sought to amend an approved special permit to add a fourth lot to a shared driveway serving three lots on Scenic Highway. The applicant cited MassDOT's preference for a single curb cut and a traffic study showing minimal added traffic and improved visibility after road construction. - Board members raised safety concerns at the curved, high-speed section of Scenic Highway, questioned the absence of a MassDOT curb-cut permit in the record, and criticized the fact that a foundation had been installed on the fourth lot before legal access/permitting was resolved. The applicant and owner apologized for the permit mix-up, said it was not intentional, and argued the fourth lot is a legal buildable lot with a right to access. - The board found the application inconsistent with the special permit criteria and shared-driveway/egress standards. It voted unanimously to deny the amendment, citing pedestrian/vehicular safety concerns at the curve, lack of erosion and stormwater controls, circumvention of subdivision control, missing plan information, and the original permit condition that no further lots be served by the driveway. Key Outcomes - Officers elected/re-elected unanimously. - April 9, 2026 minutes approved with abstentions and one present vote. - SPR/SP 02-2026 approved unanimously with board member Steve recused. - SPR/SP 04-2026 approved unanimously. - SPR/SP 05-2026 continued to June 25, 2026. - SP 03-2021B amendment denied unanimously. - The board adjourned after completing the agenda.

The Bourne Select Board and Board of Sewer Commissioners held a combined meeting on May 26, 2026, starting at 6:30 PM at the Bourne Veterans Memorial Community Center. The Select Board conducted its annual reorganization, addressed consent items, and received correspondence. The Board of Sewer Commissioners then met separately at 7:00 PM to reorganize, vote on sewer allocations, discuss a subsidy dispute with Wareham, receive an update on the Buzzards Bay wastewater treatment facility, and award an operations contract. Select Board Reorganization - Chair: Melissa Ferretti was re-nominated for a second consecutive year. Debate ensued: MJ Lestrangelo opposed extending chairs beyond one year, citing burnout and missed board duties (policy reviews, goal setting). Peter Meyer also opposed. Anne Marie and Jean supported continuity during a critical period (bridges, wastewater rates). Roll call vote: Anne Marie yes, Jean yes, Peter no, MJ no, Melissa yes – passed 3-2. - Vice Chair: Anne Marie was nominated and elected unanimously (5-0). - Clerk: MJ Lestrangelo was nominated and elected unanimously (5-0). MJ thanked the board, emphasizing teamwork. Consent Calendar - Item B (Loretta's talent bank appointment) was tabled due to an administrative error; will return on a future agenda. - The remaining consent agenda was approved unanimously (5-0). Correspondence - A list of 17 correspondence items was acknowledged, including emails about Keith Field, commercial vehicles on Main Street, Upper Cape subcommittee data, North Canal Path closure, ADA access at Taylor's Point, traffic at Barlow's Landing, and financial statements. MJ requested future discussions on traffic management and a board retreat. Board of Sewer Commissioners – Reorganization - Chair: Melissa Ferretti was elected (5-0). She stated priorities: reviewing policies/regulations, ensuring the wastewater treatment facility's sustainability, protecting ratepayers, and assisting with the watershed permit workload. - Vice Chair: Jean was elected (5-0). - Clerk: MJ was elected (5-0), with Peter Meyer declining. Sewer Allocations – Section 5.2.1 Actual Flow Vote - Proposal: Under the new policy, businesses that have operated for one year and received operational allocations are reviewed; excess capacity reverts to the town's uncommitted pool. - Details: Five entities were below allocations: Domino's (allocated 1,000 gpd, used 400), Jersey Mike's (allocated 1,000, used 400), EAB Solutions (allocated 200, used 11-25), Mass Maritime Cadet Housing (allocated 7,070, used 300), and Hampton Inn (reduced from 15,243 to 12,500, used 7,200). Total revertible capacity: 20,293 gpd. - Concerns: MJ questioned peak usage for Hampton Inn but was assured the plant has ample capacity (current pumping 109,000 gpd vs. 300,000 gpd allocation). Noted that preliminary allocations from other developments will eventually limit flexibility. - Vote: Motion to designate the five as actual users with allocations set to actual use passed unanimously (5-0). This was the first implementation of the new policy. Cape Cod Islands Water Protection Fund Subsidy – Wareham Dispute - Background: Bourne is assessed 17.91% of Wareham's capital costs for the WWTF upgrade (a $36M project). Bourne qualifies for a 25% subsidy from the Cape Cod Islands Water Protection Fund, equating to $35,820/year over 20 years (total $716,400). The subsidy is deducted from SRF debt service before billing Wareham. - Impasse: Wareham refuses to accept a net bill; they want Bourne to pay the full amount and seek the subsidy independently. SRF prefers the net billing approach. - Discussion: The board noted they already budgeted with the subsidy included. MJ suggested a joint meeting with Wareham's sewer commissioners. Board agreed to first review the Intermunicipal Agreement (IMA) internally, then schedule a joint meeting to resolve both the IMA and subsidy process. - Next Step: IMA review will be placed on a future agenda; joint meeting with Wareham targeted before Labor Day. Buzzards Bay WWTF Update - Status: Trial run with clean water completed in early May. Remaining punch list includes a bad pump and level sensor programming (expected to be resolved within 1-2 weeks). Reseeding (growing bacteria) will follow. - Membranes: Kubota inspected and found them in good condition, with no damage from prior operational issues. Written instructions for reseeding will be provided. - Director's Report: Grinder pumps will go out to bid within a month (previous delay acknowledged). Scenic Park tied into the system overnight. Contract Operation & Maintenance Services – Bid Award - Solicitation: Only one bid received from West & Samson, for $238,500/year (up from $91,200 under the previous 15 hrs/week contract). The new bid covers 29 hours/week (including 2 hours each Saturday and Sunday) plus preventive maintenance. Budget had been $140,000. - Analysis: The increase reflects the true cost of full-time operation and maintenance. Additional costs for alarm response and corrective maintenance are estimated separately. - Vote: Motion to accept the bid and authorize the Town Administrator to negotiate a contract passed unanimously (5-0). A budget adjustment will be needed in October; the reserve fund may partially offset the difference. Minutes - Minutes of March 24, 2026, were approved with one abstention (4-0-1). Key Outcomes - Select Board: Melissa Ferretti elected Chair, Anne Marie Vice Chair, MJ Lestrangelo Clerk. - Sewer Board: Melissa Ferretti elected Chair, Jean Vice Chair, MJ Lestrangelo Clerk. - Sewer Allocations: Approved revert of excess capacity for five businesses, designating them as actual users with allocations set to current usage. - Cape & Islands Subsidy: Agreed to review the IMA internally, then seek a joint meeting with Wareham to settle billing methodology. - Buzzards Bay WWTF Operations: Awarded contract to West & Samson for $238,500/year; budget adjustment anticipated. - Future Agenda Items: Grinder pump bid, Scenic Park update, IMA review, Cape & Islands subsidy status (standing item), Bay Motor update, and sewer rate discussion.

The Select Board met on May 12, 2026, to conclude regular business, set upcoming meeting dates, and identify future agenda items related to a bike path, parking, and fire stations. No agenda or minutes were provided with the source transcript. Discussion Items - The board discussed scheduling: the ninth was noted for bonds and the 30th for year-end budget adjustments. The speaker stated that bonding information for the fire station would not be ready for the second (date not specified). - A member raised a letter received that day from MassDOT (transcribed as Mastod) that was not included in the board's correspondence. The member said the board should add a follow-up agenda item on the bike path workshop, make decisions, and communicate how the board feels about the bike path. - The same member reported driving by the bike path area and observed that parking is an issue, calling for a discussion about parking. - The member requested a discussion about the Picatsett (likely Pocasset) fire station and what the town might do with it. They proposed adding the Monument Beach fire station to that discussion, explaining that the board should not wait until two years after the building is built to decide its use. They also noted the upcoming Monument Beach marina project as a reason to consider whether that land could fit or not fit into future plans. Meeting Schedule - May 26, 2026: Select Board at 6:30 p.m.; Sewer Commission at 7:00 p.m. - June 9, 2026: Select Board - June 23, 2026: Board of Sewer Commissioners - June 30, 2026: Select Board Key Outcomes - The board identified follow-up agenda items for a future bike path workshop and for discussions of parking, the Picatsett/Pocasset fire station, and the Monument Beach fire station. - A motion to adjourn was made, seconded, and approved unanimously by voice vote.

The Bourne Conservation Commission convened on May 7, 2026, primarily for a presentation by archaeologist John Steinberg of the Fiske Center at UMass Boston. The presentation detailed a non-invasive ground-penetrating radar (GPR) survey at Burying Hill in Bourndale, conducted over the previous year to identify unmarked Native American burials and any remnants of a colonial meeting house. The meeting opened with a call to order and a waiver of normal procedures for the presentation. Presentation Highlights - John Steinberg presented the methodology and results of the GPR survey, which covered approximately 12% of the lot but collected nearly 5 kilometers of linear data over one week in a highly intensive survey. - The survey identified two groups of potential unmarked burials, all consistent with flexed (fetal) positions oriented southwest, a common pre-contact Native American burial practice. No extended burials were found. Comparisons were drawn to known cemeteries such as Titicut and West Ferry. - No evidence of the historic meeting house was detected, which Steinberg noted is common for structures without foundations. - Steinberg clarified that the survey was completely non-invasive; no excavation occurred or is planned, correcting false information that had circulated online. - The project was funded through Community Preservation Act (CPA) money from the Town of Bourne, via the UMass Boston Fiske Center. Questions and Discussion - Asked about the motivation, Steinberg explained that initial involvement came from a request regarding a potential canoe ramp at Herring Pond, and later Jackie (likely a town official) asked for help at the Burying Hill site. - Steinberg defined an ossuary as a collection of loose bones (primarily long bones and skulls), citing local examples in Wellfleet and on Grove Street. - He described flexed burials as likely fetal position burials facing southwest, following the spiritual trail to the southwest, though he deferred deeper cultural interpretation to Native American knowledge keepers. - Steinberg recommended next steps: survey areas along the historic Herring River to find remnants of the associated village, which would help date the burial ground and understand the activities of Richard Bourne and Thomas Tupper. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were taken by the commission during this agenda item; the presentation was informational. - The survey produced new evidence of a pre-contact or contact-period Native American burial ground at Burying Hill, with flexed burials in two loose groups near the lot line with 829 Scenic Highway. - Steinberg emphasized that this is early-stage research, with much still unknown about the constellation of meeting house, burial ground, and village.

This workshop was held on May 4, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. (although the transcript references May 7th, the instructed date is used) and featured a presentation by MassDOT on proposed changes to parking, pedestrian crossings, and a shared-use path near Keith Field and Sandwich Road as part of the Sagamore Bridge replacement project. The town’s Select Board, Recreation Committee, Police Department, and members of the public discussed concerns about safety, loss of informal recreational space, and the impact on a nearby apartment complex. No binding decisions were reached; MassDOT agreed to return within a week with further options. Public Comments & Testimony - Peter McCutch (Bourne Rec Committee / President of Bourne Youth Baseball): Expressed strong opposition to the proposed crosswalk, stating it is unsafe for unsupervised children. He argued that MassDOT should not accept a crosswalk when a pedestrian overpass or tunnel is needed, noting that similar flashing lights at Upper Cape Tech did not prevent an officer from being hit. He urged the Select Board to reject the flashing beacon crossing. - John York (Resident): Emphasized the need for a “livable community” approach. He opposed taking green space from the apartment complex for parking and suggested using the canal-side bike path for parking access, noting that the Gallo property grade could be fixed with earth-moving already planned for the project. - Chris Farrell (Planning Board member, former police officer): Raised concerns about the proposed parking lot location conflicting with the apartment complex’s septic reserve area. He warned that wider roads with curbing would increase speeds and that the crosswalk near a gas station would create conflicts. He also noted the steep grade under the bridge is impractical. - Chief ESip (Police Department): Stated that a flashing yellow beacon is insufficient; a pedestrian-activated red signal or a tunnel/overpass is needed. He also pointed out that the proposed 35-space lot would not be adequate for both ball field users and new canal path visitors, and that the lot would take away recreational space used by children in the apartment complex. - Detective Wallers (Bourne Police / Resident): Noted that people will park on private property nearby regardless, and that the crosswalk location under the bridge has poor visibility and high speeds, making it dangerous. - Katie Matthews (Recreation Director): Asked if MassDOT would still build the shared-use path to the canal if the parking lot is not acceptable. She also inquired about the timeline for curb installation, which would eliminate informal parking. - Christopher Farrell (speaking as individual): Repeated concerns about the parking lot’s location on the apartment’s septic field and urged the town to protect the South Sagamore village, noting that many residents will not live to see the project completed. - Unnamed speaker (Conservation Commission member): Warning that if the canal service road is shut for 10 years, pedestrians and fishermen will be forced onto Scenic Highway, causing erosion and safety hazards; they may motion to deny permits if safe passage is not provided. Discussion Items - Presentation by MassDOT: Luisa Pyawanski (Executive Director of Mega Projects) and David Anderson (HNTB) reviewed project status, noting the environmental review is nearly complete and procurement is underway. They presented proposals for a 35-space parking lot on the south side of Sandwich Road (opposite Keith Field) on the apartment complex property, with a crosswalk using rectangular rapid-flashing beacons (RRFB). They also evaluated alternatives: a parking lot under the bridge (17% grade, impractical), acquiring active businesses/homes (not feasible), and installing traffic signals at Adams Street (did not meet warrants). A shared-use path connecting Sandwich Road to the Canal Service Road with a railroad crossing was also discussed. - Traffic Signal Warrants: MassDOT stated that neither a full traffic signal nor a pedestrian hybrid beacon (HAWK) is warranted at Sandwich Road/Adams Street or at the proposed crosswalk location due to low traffic volumes. RRFBs were proposed as they are permitted under the MUTCD for such conditions. - Bike Path and Canal Access: The shared-use path will serve as a detour during construction and provide long-term access. Several speakers agreed that parking is needed for this path, but the proposed location on the south side was controversial. - Concerns about Apartment Complex: Multiple speakers noted that the grassy area proposed for parking is used by children living in the apartments for soccer and play. The septic system reserve area may be impacted, and taking this space is seen as detrimental to the community. - Timeline Pressure: MassDOT requested a decision within 30 days to meet environmental and procurement deadlines. The town asked for more time to discuss with the Recreation Committee. - Alternative Considered: Marlene (likely town administrator) suggested that the town could request MassDOT to transfer jurisdiction of this segment of Sandwich Road (State Route 6A) to the town, allowing on-street parking. MassDOT took this as a topic for further discussion. Key Outcomes - No final decision was made. The Select Board and Recreation Committee expressed significant reservations about the proposed parking lot location and the adequacy of the pedestrian crossing. - MassDOT offered two options: (1) Drop the parking replacement proposal and continue working with the town on longer-term community-friendly design, or (2) return within a week with further analysis of safer crossing alternatives, while keeping the parking proposal alive. The board leaned toward exploring the latter. - Next Steps: The Recreation Committee will meet within the next week to discuss Keith Field usage and potential relocation of recreational facilities (e.g., tennis courts). MassDOT will come back to the Select Board within a week with additional options, including possibly adjusting project limits (e.g., not curbing Sandwich Road) to preserve informal parking. The town and MassDOT will also discuss jurisdiction transfer as a long-term possibility.

The Bourne Select Board met on April 14, 2026, at 7 p.m. The meeting was televised and streamed. Key actions included approving a six-month extension for the affordable housing project at 173 Main Street, authorizing a formal information request to Upper Cape Tech regarding resident enrollment, and forming an interim building committee for the police station roof project. Consent Calendar - Approved consent agenda as amended, including the Pan Mask Challenge bike event (August 1-2, 2026, with conditions) and corrected permanent easement addresses to 375 and 369 Barlow's Landing Road. - Approved meeting minutes from March 30 and March 31, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public comment period. Discussion Items - 173 Main Street (Former Police Station) Extension Request: Sue from the Bourne Affordable Housing Trust requested a six-month extension to complete site assessment and planning. The trust is working with regional housing services and an architect to determine best use for the property, including workforce housing and potential retail. The board unanimously supported the extension. - Excise Tax Apportionment in Zip Code 02532: Assessor's office representative Rui explained that a portion of Wareham shares the Buzzards Bay zip code, causing vehicles to be incorrectly assigned to Bourne. The issue persists due to RMV coding and can only be fully resolved by the post office assigning a separate zip code. The board discussed administrative workarounds. - Draft Information Request to Upper Cape Tech: The board discussed a draft letter requesting detailed enrollment data for FY2026. MJ proposed edits to include both residential and mailing addresses, and to add "as applicable" and "documents." A motion to send the letter with edits passed 3-1-1 (Peter voted no, MJ abstained), despite concerns about not first inviting Upper Cape Tech to a collaborative meeting. The chair was authorized to sign the letter. - Annual and Special Town Meeting Warrants: The board reviewed the draft warrant and voted unanimously to execute the warrants for the May 4, 2026 town meeting. - Police Station Roof Building Committee: Town Administrator Marlene reported that the building committee is not yet seated and no applications have been received for the three specialized seats. She proposed the select board serve as an interim building committee, along with representatives from the Finance Committee, Capital Outlay Committee, and Police Chief, to expedite design and bidding. After debate, a motion to form an interim committee passed 4-1 (MJ voted no, citing desire for wider recruitment and a written charge). The board will continue recruiting for permanent members. - Town Administrator's Report: Marlene reported on Algonquin gas pipeline maintenance (flaring, April 21-24), summer preparations including marina repairs and lifeguard staffing (still seeking a water safety instructor), and Army Corps bridge maintenance on Bourne Bridge (lane closures April 27-30). - Bike Path Committee Report: A committee member reported that the bike path committee voted to request a joint meeting with the select board to discuss the future of the bike path and phase one. Key Outcomes - Vote 1: Approved six-month extension for 173 Main Street (5-0). - Vote 2: Authorized sending information request letter to Upper Cape Tech with MJ's edits (3-1-1). - Vote 3: Executed annual and special town meeting warrants for May 4, 2026 (5-0). - Vote 4: Approved select board serving as interim police station building committee (4-1). - Vote 5: Approved consent agenda as amended (5-0). - Vote 6: Approved minutes from March 30 and March 31 (5-0). Note: The chair's vote was included in all tallies, making them 5-0 except where noted.

The Bourne Planning Board met on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at 7:05 PM. The meeting was recorded for live broadcast and televised replay. The board approved the minutes from March 26, 2026, and then considered two applications: a solar photovoltaic canopy and battery energy storage system at 170 Clay Pond Road, and a site plan review and special permit for an auto detailing shop and parking reconfiguration at 280 MacArthur Boulevard. Both applications were approved unanimously with conditions. Consent Calendar - Meeting Minutes (March 26, 2026): Motion to accept as printed by Jim, seconded by Mandy. Approved unanimously (5-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Neighbor Concern (Fence Repair): A board member acknowledged a neighbor’s concern about the perimeter fence along Water Lane at the 170 Clay Pond Road property. The applicant (Next Grid Holdings LLC) committed to repairing the fence within 30 days of approval. Discussion Items - 170 Clay Pond Road – Solar Canopy and BESS: Applicant Next Grid Holdings LLC, represented by Nathan Collins (CLC Design), proposed installing solar photovoltaic canopy structures (two carports) and a battery energy storage system (BESS) at an existing self-storage facility. The total system is just under 1100 kW DC with a 499 kW AC nameplate, and a 1.5 MW BESS (two 750 kW cabinets). The carports would cover existing parking without reducing parking spaces, and water drainage would be maintained through panel gaps. The board discussed: fire department access (plan submitted that day), lighting (none proposed), height (low point 15 ft above grade, high point 21-22 ft), and the applicant’s commitment to repair the fence within 30 days. The board also noted that the fire department had not yet formally signed off on access, but the revised plan was submitted. No public comments from the audience. - 280 MacArthur Boulevard – Auto Detailing Shop and Parking Reconfiguration: Applicant J Entman Real Estate LLC, represented by Don Bracken (Bracken Engineering), along with team members from Falma Toyota, proposed a 9,936 sq ft one-story metal building for auto detailing, with 10 employees maximum, and reconfiguration of the existing vehicle storage lot. The site is in the B4 zoning district. The board discussed crosswalk relocation (from diagonal to perpendicular, with better visibility and signage), landscaping (rain garden, irrigation, tree species), a three-year maintenance plan, and the need for detailed specifications. The applicant noted that the existing gravel lot west of the property (owned by the golf course) would not be used for storage, and no connection to that lot would be made. The board also addressed water/wastewater: all washing occurs inside, with a holding tank that is pumped out. The project will combine two lots into one. Key Outcomes - 170 Clay Pond Road – Solar Canopy and BESS: Motion to approve site plan review (SPR 519) with conditions, including: compliance with all town bylaws; decommissioning surety (up to 125% of removal cost, with 2% yearly inflation); fire department coordination; labeling of canopies and BESS cabinets; staking of disturbed work area; possible third-party review; as-built plan; and fence repair within 30 days of approval. Motion by Amanda, seconded by Jim (with amendment for fence condition). Vote: 5-0 in favor. - 280 MacArthur Boulevard – Auto Detailing Shop: Motion to approve site plan/special permit with conditions: supersedes prior special permit (2014); fire department coordination; health/water district confirmation; as-built plan; crosswalk relocated perpendicular with visible markings and signage; final plan to include grass/landscaping specifications; three-year maintenance plan for plantings and irrigation. Motion by Mandy, seconded by Jim. Vote: 5-0 in favor. - Adjournment: Motion to adjourn by Jim, seconded by Liz. Vote: 5-0. Meeting adjourned.