Public Meetings - Bourne, Massachusetts

[Introductory paragraph summarizing the overall meeting.] The Bourne Select Board convened on March 31, 2026 at 6:43 PM. The meeting was televised and streamed. Key actions included approvals of temporary parking licenses, license agreements for community organizations, a new alcohol license, and detailed review of annual town meeting articles. Several articles were withdrawn or deferred for further review. The board also released the hold on the Southside Fire Station building project and accepted proprietary equipment specifications. Public Comments & Testimony - Paul Boucher thanked the town highway department for cleaning up streets and cutting trees after storms, stating they did "an incredible job." - Melissa Marina requested a memorandum of understanding between Bourne, the Army Corps of Engineers, and the state regarding the bridges. She emphasized the need for a decades-long agreement, noting that current personal relationships are helpful but not permanent. Discussion Items - Introduction of Police Department Clinician: Chief Isip introduced Detective Beverlock and new clinician Courtney Murphy. Murphy has a background in addictions counseling and will work on the co-response team, splitting shifts between day and evening. The grant funding runs through the end of the fiscal year and has been cut in the past; the Chief requested community support to maintain it. The board praised the program. - Open Air Temporary Parking Lot License at 21 St. Margaret Street: Liberty Warehouse Liquors requested a temporary license for April 7–9, 2026 for Mass Maritime Academy student parking during a career fair. No overnight parking will occur. The board approved unanimously (5-0). - License Agreement for Monument Beach by Bourne Community Boating: The agreement is a renewal for the 2026 summer season with minor updates (fleet inventory corrections). It is now a two-year agreement. The program served nearly 140 students and 91 families in its 19th year. Approved unanimously (5-0). - License Agreement for Recreational Ball Fields by Bourne Youth Baseball: The agreement follows last year's framework with amendments: expansion to Hoxy School Gallfield (34 Wilson Road), extended dates to November 9, 2026, payment of $8,000 to the town, and storage of equipment (electric generator, bases, pitching machine) at Clark Field. Approved unanimously (5-0). - Public Hearing for New Annual Wine & Malt On-Premises License – Taste and Tide Inc.: Applicant Raquel Pereira presented the family-style restaurant at 18 Beach Street. No public comments. The board closed the hearing and approved the license pending final inspections, noting the applicant is TIPS certified. Vote was 5-0. - Review of Annual Town Meeting Articles (Agenda Item 10): The board systematically reviewed draft motions for multiple articles: - Article 1 (Consent Agenda): Recommended approval (5-0). - Article 5 (Capital Budget, $2,961,350): Recommended approval (5-0). - Article 6 (Rescind Borrowing Authority): The board requested that the explanation in the meeting handbook clarify that the scope of work changed and funding is no longer needed because the project is in progress via other funding. Recommended approval (5-0). - Article 11 (Committee Reports): Recommended approval (5-0). - Article 12 (CPA – Katomet Schoolhouse Hard Court): Recommended approval (5-0). - Article 13 (CPA – Community Building Shade Structures, $350,000): Recommended approval (5-0). - Article 14 (CPA – Town Hall Envelope Design, $77,000): Recommended approval (5-0). - Article 15 (School Administrative Building Feasibility Study, $30,000): Recommended approval (5-0). - Article 17 (CPA – Shelter Housing): The board deferred action to next week to obtain a legal opinion on whether CPA funds can be used for temporary shelter housing, noting Sandwich Town Administrator had raised concerns. Motion to table passed without objection. - Article 18 (CPA – Another housing article): Also deferred with Article 17. - Article 19 (CPA Administrative Expenses): Recommended approval (5-0). - Article 23 (Human Services Grant Program, $4,000): Recommended approval (5-0). - Articles 24 and 25 (Firefighter Health Screening Pilot Program and another): The Town Administrator recommended removal due to free cash constraints and snow/ice deficit. Motion to remove from warrant passed (5-0). - Article 26 (Local Acceptance of Abandoned Property Statute): After discussion about uncashed checks and lack of dollar amount, the board voted to remove the article (3-2: Jean, Peter, Vice Chair in favor; MJ and Melissa opposed). - Article 27 (Ease Increased Demand Fees – from $15 to $30): Recommended approval (5-0). - Article 28 (Dog License Fee Increase): Recommended approval (5-0). - Article 29 (Vital Records Fee Increase): Recommended approval (5-0). - Article 31 (Zoning ADU Amendments): Recommended approval (5-0). - Article 32 (Zoning Front Setbacks in Downtown District): Recommended approval (5-0), allowing 30-foot front setbacks instead of current 15-foot maximum, to improve aesthetics. - Articles 7 and 8 (Algonquin Gas): Deferred for discussion next week. - Designate May 5, 2026 as Second Night of Town Meeting: Approved (5-0). - Release Borrowing Authority Hold for Southside Fire Station: The governor signed the bill; the board voted to release the hold so the building committee can go out to bid (5-0). - Accept Proprietary Equipment for Southside Fire Station: Approved (5-0) to allow proprietary specifications for CCTV and access control, consistent with other town equipment. - Consent Agenda (4 items): Authorized projects at Bourne Middle School roof (project management and design), BHS DECA car wash on April 12, 2026, and acceptance of $2,000 donation. Approved (5-0). - Town Administrator’s Report: - MassDOT pre-construction meetings for Sagamore Bridge load testing: pile driving near Christmas Tree Shop expected early to mid-April, with temporary ADA-compliant walkway. - MassDOT issued RFLOI for Sagamore Bridge design-build procurement, notice to proceed expected fall 2027. - Army Corps: Bourne Bridge will have single-lane in each direction from April 27 to May 20, 2026; sidewalk closed for 7 days. - Traffic lights at Main Street and Academy Drive being replaced this week (8 AM–3 PM); police details and flaggers present. - Interim building commissioner Michael Yanovich started; permanent position interviews scheduled. - Marina renewals: 84% renewal rate; waitlist utilized. - Confirmed fall 2025 town meeting transferred $368,000 to capital stabilization. - Correspondence: Items included Can Edwards State of the Reservation Report, Cape Light Compact report, DOT taking parcel, Cape Tech minutes, and email on Cape Cod Canal Master Plan rewrite. Key Outcomes - Approvals (all 5-0): Temporary parking license (Liberty Warehouse Liquors), Monument Beach license (Bourne Community Boating), baseball field license (Bourne Youth Baseball), new wine/malt license (Taste and Tide Inc.), release of Southside Fire Station borrowing hold, proprietary equipment specifications, consent agenda items. - Recommendations for Town Meeting (all 5-0): Articles 1, 5, 6, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 19, 23, 27, 28, 29, 31, 32. - Removed/Withdrawn: Articles 24, 25, and 26 (abandoned property statute) removed from warrant. - Deferred: Articles 17, 18, 7, and 8 (Algonquin Gas) deferred to next meeting for further legal review or discussion. - Next Steps: Town meeting set for May 4, 2026, with second night on May 5 if needed. Moderator's meeting on April 15 (Zoom only). Future meetings on April 7, April 14, May 12 (legislative update), and May 26 (reorganization).

The Bourne Finance Committee met on March 30, 2026, to discuss the FY2027 budget, including adjustments to school budgets, a report on Upper Cape Tech student enrollment corrections, and various warrant articles for the upcoming Town Meeting. The meeting covered enrollment disputes, budget presentations from Upper Cape Tech and Bourne Public Schools, capital and operating budget adjustments, and votes on several articles. Upper Cape Tech Resident Student Enrollment Correction Town Administrator Marlene and Town Council member Anne Marie reported on efforts to correct Bourne's enrollment numbers at Upper Cape Tech. Initially, 14 students were removed, then 11 more were questioned. After verification, 6 additional students were removed, totaling 20 students removed from Bourne's enrollment for the October 1, 2025 count, which determines the FY27 assessment. The net reduction in assessment is approximately $365,000 (original 14 students: just over $250,000; additional 6: $115,962). The breakdown of the 20 students was 7 freshmen, 3 sophomores, 5 juniors, and 5 seniors. Superintendent Roger Horjet explained steps to prevent recurrence, including providing each town with a full listing of addresses for validation and adding a requirement for parents to denote the town (not village) on freshman applications. Discussion followed about whether to look back at prior years' enrollments. Town Council will research the legal authority to go back to prior fiscal years, while the committee requested addresses for October 1, 2024 (FY26) since the books are not yet closed for that year. The committee also discussed the possibility of recovering overpayments from prior years, but noted complications involving Chapter 78 reimbursement. Public Hearing on FY2027 Operating, Enterprise, and Capital Budgets The committee opened a public hearing for the proposed FY2027 budgets. Upper Cape Tech Budget Presentation: Superintendent Roger Horjet presented the FY2027 operating budget of $21,379,762, a 5.65% increase over FY26. Key drivers: contractual obligations (steps and lanes), insurance increases, vocational supply costs, and increased student enrollment. Bourne's assessment is based on 215 resident students (revised from 235). Bourne's net foundation budget assessment is $4,322,089, which is $121,123 over the state-required foundation. The capital assessment is based on total town enrollment, not just Upper Cape Tech enrollment. The budget includes $180,000 for stabilization and total capital of $330,000. Committee members questioned the percentage increase (5.65%) compared to town departments (2.88%). Horjet explained that teaching services increased 9.89% due to contractual obligations and three new positions (math, special ed, English teachers), while other line items increased 3% or less. Bourne Public Schools Budget Presentation: Superintendent Dr. Joe and Mr. Jordan Geist presented the FY2027 operating budget of $28,265,695, a 1.97% increase over FY26. The budget adds 7 teaching positions due to enrollment growth in lower grades and special education needs. Offsets (circuit breaker, school choice, military mitigation, grants) total over $5.2 million. The total cost of schools including shared costs (liability insurance, employee benefits, maintenance, public utilities) is approximately $41 million, with an additional $1,877,000 for retired teachers' health insurance and $2,458,000 in debt service. Discussion covered enrollment trends: a NESDEC study projects an increase of 137-176 students over 3-5 years. Special education costs have risen 42% since 2021 in Bourne. Per-pupil costs and comparisons with other districts were shown. The committee discussed class sizes, school choice (students pay $5,000 per pupil but the actual cost is higher), and the move of 8th grade to the high school. Capital Budget Adjustments No adjustments for the May warrant; the transfer station project is deferred to the fall. Operating Budget Adjustments Proposed adjustments: Bourne Public Schools reduced by $478,532 (absorbing a deficit), Upper Cape Tech reduced by $115,962 (due to enrollment correction). Total education budget reduction: $594,494. The savings from Upper Cape Tech ($115,926) will be transferred to the Special Education Reserve Fund via a raise and appropriate article, not from free cash. The committee discussed the sources and uses document, which now includes a line for general articles (transfers to reserves). A free cash analysis shows that due to a snow and ice deficit of over $800,000, the town plans to use $470,000 from free cash, bringing free cash down to 5.0% (minimum recommended). Two articles—non-capital equipment purchases ($5,000) and a firefighter pilot program ($1,600)—will be withdrawn from the warrant to free up cash for the snow and ice deficit. Capital stabilization will receive $850,000 (half the purchase price of the fire station land). Warrant Article Votes The committee voted on several articles for the upcoming Town Meeting: - Article 1 (Consent Agenda): Approved unanimously. - Article 6 (Rescind borrowing authority for school wastewater treatment plan, $2.1 million): Approved unanimously. - Committee Reports: Approved. - Human Services Grant Program ($140,000 from free cash): Approved. - Non-capital projects: Withdrawn from warrant. - Article 26 (Local acceptance of abandoned property statute): Approved. - Increased demand fees for property taxes (from $15 to $30): Approved. - Dog licensing fee increase: Approved. - Vital records fee increase: Approved. - Minutes of March 9, 2026: Approved. - Motion to adjourn. Key Outcomes - Upper Cape Tech enrollment correction accepted: 215 resident students for FY27, with a reduction in assessment of $115,962. - Town Council to research legal authority for prior-year adjustments and will obtain October 1, 2024 enrollment addresses from Upper Cape Tech for FY26. - Budget adjustments approved: Committee voted recommendations to Town Meeting for the FY27 operating budgets with the proposed reductions. - Two warrant articles deferred (non-capital equipment and firefighter pilot program) to free up cash for snow/ice deficit. - Special Education Reserve Fund to receive $115,926 from Upper Cape Tech savings. - Next meeting scheduled for April 6, 2026.

The Bourne Planning Board convened at 7:00 PM on March 26, 2026, with Vice Chair Liz Brown presiding (Chair John Dugan absent). The board addressed several consent items, a performance bond for an occupancy request, two Approval Not Required (ANR) plans, a site plan review waiver, and other business. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Minutes of March 12, 2026: The board voted unanimously to approve the minutes as distributed. Discussion and Decisions Occupancy Bond – Canal Street (Map 11, Parcel 29) - Mike Allen, CEO of Chief Cannabis, presented a request for a performance bond totaling approximately $103,000 (including 15% contingency) for paving, dumpsters, sidewalks, landscaping, and picture box frames at 10 Canal Street. The bond is needed to secure final work before obtaining a certificate of occupancy (CO). - Mr. Allen explained that paving is scheduled for April 15, weather permitting, with striping and landscaping to follow. He sought clarity on the board’s timeline and the ability of the town’s (then vacant) interim building commissioner to sign off on the CO, noting that the lack of a building commissioner (Warren has no interim commissioner and is trying to borrow from another municipality) could delay his cannabis license process by several months. - The board discussed the adequacy of the estimates and the town’s vacant building inspector position. Member Catherine raised a concern that the DPW director had not yet reviewed the estimates, citing past issues with bonds being insufficient. The board voted to accept the bond on the condition that the DPW director first review and approve the estimates. Motion passed unanimously. ANR Land Swap – 17 Perch Lane & 77 Bars Road - Greg Warson of Greensale Environmental represented the Huckley Trust and the Masonic Building Corporation. The ANR plan involves a land exchange: the Huckley Trust receives 34,598 square feet, and the Masonic Building Corporation receives 3,137 square feet, with the Huckley Trust (a nonprofit) covering engineering costs. The board approved the ANR unanimously, with the note that endorsement is needed for Land Court. ANR Lot Split – 190 Main Street - Sam Imlay of JC Engineering presented an ANR plan to divide a 14,000-square-foot lot (currently with a hair salon) into two lots, both compliant with downtown core zoning requirements. The existing building remains on the northern lot; a vacant lot (6,020 sq. ft.) is created on the south. The board approved the ANR unanimously. Site Plan Review Waiver – 190 Main Street - The applicant requested a waiver from site plan review (required for a loading area) for the same property. The waiver was based on the minimal change (reduction in parking area) and the low delivery needs of a hair salon. Four parking spaces (three required) are provided. Board members questioned future use of the vacant lot (mixed-use possible but not yet determined) but found the waiver appropriate. The motion to approve the waiver with standard conditions passed unanimously. Old/New Business - Board members discussed the town’s vacant building inspector position (the interim commissioner is also unavailable). They noted a serious need for a building inspector, especially as the construction season begins, and encouraged individuals to apply or for the town to seek a state waiver or borrow from another community. No formal board action was taken. The meeting adjourned shortly after the vote on the waiver.

The Bourne Select Board met on March 24, 2026, convening at 6:30 p.m. and adjourning at 7:43 p.m. The board acted on a town property access license, a sewer account abatement, the fiscal year 2027 sewer enterprise budget and capital request, and the wastewater treatment facility operations and maintenance procurement approach. It also received the Sewer Director's report and approved prior meeting minutes. License for 16 Fisher Lane / 280 Standish Road Access - An applicant, on behalf of clients at 16 Fisher Lane, requested access to town property at 280 Standish Road for sand nourishment under amended Order of Conditions SE-7-2091, dated June 17, 2025. The applicant cited the April 1 deadline related to bird and nesting activity. - Town Administrator Marlene confirmed the license was prepared and that all needed materials were in hand. - The board voted 4-0 to authorize the town administrator to sign the license. Announcements - The chair announced a one-year pilot program beginning April 1, run by the Health Department in conjunction with Peer Solace, offering free referrals for residents needing help navigating in-network behavioral health or substance use providers. The program is funded by opioid settlement money; the phone number is 888-515-7881, with more information available through the Board of Health website or Town Hall. 16 Tower Lane Sewer Abatement and Permanent Disconnect - Kathy, representing the Academy, said the existing seven-apartment building at 16 Tower Lane has been removed, sewer service disconnected and capped, and a prefabricated facility garage is being installed. Because the only drain would be a floor drain for washing equipment, a tight tank was recommended, and the Board of Health had been contacted. - Board members discussed whether Board of Health approval of the tight tank is required; Kathy said the state building inspector would need to sign off on construction items. - The board voted 4-0 to approve the abatement and closure of the sewer account at 16 Tower Lane, subject to payment of interest and penalties due, noted as $1.48, and subject to approval of the tight tank by the Board of Health, if required, or by the state inspector. - It was clarified that any future sewer connection would require starting the process over as a new building. FY27 Sewer Enterprise Budget and Annual Town Meeting Motions - Sewer Director Matt presented the final FY27 budget: a $1,849,450 operating budget; a $100,000 reserve fund for use by the Board of Sewer Commissioners; $181,283 in indirect costs; and a total town meeting request of $2,130,733, an increase of $249,056 over last year. - A prepared rate table showed projected annual sewer charges falling from $1,162 with no retained earnings to $983 with $250,000 in retained earnings. Matt stated retained earnings totaled $900,033 as of March 24. - The budget projected user counts increasing from 1,248 to 1,397, including 91 users from Scenic Park and phased additional users. MJ expressed concern about relying on projected rather than actual users and favored continuing a cautious $100,000 use of retained earnings to help stabilize rates. - Matt noted that if no user growth occurred, the $100,000 retained earnings scenario would produce an annual charge of about $1,222. - The board voted 4-0 to adopt the budget as presented and to use $100,000 of retained earnings for FY27. FY27 Capital Request - The board reviewed the $732,000 capital request for the SCADA upgrade, to be financed through enterprise borrowing. - The board voted 4-0 to approve the $732,000 capital request with enterprise borrowing for FY27. Wastewater Treatment Facility Operations and Maintenance Bid - Matt explained that the town would issue an IFB rather than an RFP because repairs and replacement parts in the draft were considered construction under Chapter 30, requiring award to the lowest responsible bidder. - The IFB covers a three-year maintenance contract with estimated allowances of 100 hours per year for alarm response and 270 hours per year for corrective maintenance and repairs, based on prior plant operating history. Bidders would be paid only for work actually performed. - The town plans to pay directly for sludge, chemicals, and parts to avoid contractor markup and to capture true costs. - The plant is not yet online; the blizzard slowed startup, with flow expected before the second week of April and Kubota onsite that week. - The board voted 4-0 to approve the IFB, subject to review and approval by Town Counsel. Director's Report and Future Agenda Items - The director sent initial letters to businesses that will be switched to actual-use sewer billing. The wastewater summary sheet has been updated with 2025 metered usage and pumping, showing about 20,293 gallons per day available because pumping was about 14,000 gallons per day lower last year. - The Hideaway project is complete and closed out with the contractor; final pay rec will close out ARPA funds; a maintenance agreement with Hideaway directors is being developed. - The director toured the Wareham plant upgrades and expects future discussions about the Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan. - Future agenda items include resolving the Cape and Islands Water Protection Fund credit language with Wareham, ongoing updates on the IFB/RFP process, business actual-use letters, the grinder pump project, and the Hideaway Village maintenance agreement. Key Outcomes - 4-0: Authorized the Town Administrator to sign the 16 Fisher Lane / 280 Standish Road access license. - 4-0: Approved the 16 Tower Lane sewer abatement and account closure, with conditions. - 4-0: Adopted the FY27 sewer enterprise budget with $100,000 in retained earnings. - 4-0: Approved the $732,000 SCADA capital request with enterprise borrowing. - 4-0: Approved the wastewater treatment facility O&M IFB, subject to Town Counsel approval. - Minutes: Approved the October 28, 2025 minutes 3-0-1, with Melissa abstaining; approved the November 4, 2025 and December 2, 2025 minutes 4-0.

The Bourne Select Board met on March 17, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. The meeting covered a wide range of topics including a request for student enrollment data from Cape Cod Regional Technical School, a special alcohol license revision, updates on the Joint Base Cape Cod master plan, and numerous articles for the upcoming Annual Town Meeting on May 4, 2026. The board also approved a one-day liquor license, discussed the status of the Southside Fire Station borrowing authority, and addressed budget updates. Public Comments & Testimony - A resident asked about a memorandum of understanding with the Army Corps of Engineers and the state regarding the Bourne bridge projects. The board could not respond due to open meeting law restrictions; the resident was directed to contact the town administrator's office. - A public commenter (from Sagamore Beach) suggested that a memorandum of understanding be created to codify the process for verifying student addresses through the assessor's office to avoid future issues. Discussion Items 1. Access to Financial and Student Enrollment Data for Cape Cod Regional Technical School - The board discussed the need for data to understand the calculation of annual charges to the town. Town Administrator Marlene McCullum reported that the state's DESI system indicated 14 students were removed from Bourne's assessment due to agreement with Wareham, but 12 additional students (11 from Wareham, 1 from Carver) remain in dispute. Wareham's town administrator had not reviewed the list and stated he would not change his budget. A follow-up meeting was scheduled for Thursday. - Superintendent Roger Forquet of Upper Cape Tech stated he had provided both town administrators with lists of physical addresses of enrolled students for Bourne and Wareham and that a meeting was scheduled for the next day to resolve the issue. - The board voted to authorize the drafting of a letter requesting the physical addresses of enrolled students (not just enrollment counts) to the regional school committee. The motion passed unanimously after an amendment to specify "physical address of enrolled students." 2. Revision to H584 – Special Alcohol Beverage License - Town Counsel Brian explained that the draft revision from the legislature would allow the license to be transferred to a new owner, contrary to the non-transferable intent expressed at the October Town Meeting. The revision also gave the state ABCC more control over future transfers. - The board agreed to contact the legislative delegation to request changes aligning with the original Town Meeting vote, which supported a non-transferable license for the specific business (Katamit Fish). 3. Mass Development Update on JBCC Master Plan - Eric Hokinson, Senior Vice President of Mass Development, presented the master plan for the 7,000-acre Kenton area of Joint Base Cape Cod. The 16-month process is in the discovery phase, with a focus on holistic land use including housing, conservation, recreation, and economic development. Mass Development has invested nearly $7 million in grants in Barnstable County in the past five fiscal years. - Board members raised concerns about the impact on schools, transportation, multimodal connectivity, and the need for recreational facilities. Peter suggested incorporating recreational fields similar to Fort Devens. John emphasized bicycle and pedestrian access, noting that the base is currently difficult to reach on foot or by bike. - Eric Hokinson agreed that transportation and connectivity would be part of the planning effort. 4. Southside Fire Station Borrowing Authority & Election Warrant Posting Error - Town Administrator McCullum reported that the bill authorizing borrowing for the Southside Fire Station has passed the House and Senate and is on the governor's desk. The deadline to submit ballot questions is April 14, 2026. A fallback meeting is scheduled for April 13 if needed. 5. Request to Access Town Property at 280 Standish (16 Fisher) - No petitioner appeared; the item was tabled. 6. One-Day Liquor License for GNS Marine - Gary Bachee of GNS Marine requested a one-day beer and wine license for an open house on March 21, 2026 at 134 Main Street. The board unanimously approved the license. 7. Annual Town Meeting Articles (May 4, 2026) - CPC Articles: - Katamit Schoolhouse Hard Court Project: $400,000 for fencing, ADA improvements, and resurfacing. Funded from available CPC funds, no borrowing. - Community Center Shade Structure Project: Two permanent cantilever shade structures with removable fabric. Cost not specified; funded from CPC funds. - Town Hall Exterior Envelope Design: $77,000 requested from historic preservation funds (split with existing roof design funds) for design of roof and masonry repairs. - School Administration Building Feasibility Study: $30,000 for roof, stairs, and fire escape assessment. - Conservation Restriction for Bourne Conservation Trust (940 County Road): $325,000 from CPC to purchase a conservation restriction on a 7.34-acre parcel. The trust purchased the property for $650,000 and has raised $140,000 from donors; the CPC funds would cover 54.4% of the cost. - CPC Administrative Expenses: $75,000 (level funded for five years). - Housing Assistance Corporation (HAC): Request for funds for emergency shelter at 77 Winter Street (50 beds). The board noted that a grant agreement would be required to address conditions from town counsel. HAC reported that 402 Bourne households received assistance in 2025, totaling over $3 million. - Bourne Affordable Housing Services and Support: $111,050 for administrative and operational expenses of the Affordable Housing Trust, including monitoring, planning, and part-time staff. - Human Services Grant Program: $40,000 level funded for FY27, supporting 10 agencies serving Bourne residents. - Firefighter Health Screening Pilot Program: Chief Dave Balonzi presented a two-year voluntary program for comprehensive health and cancer screenings. Cost is still being finalized. The program would bring a medical provider to the station for two days. - Borrowing Authority for School Wastewater Treatment Plant: Rescinding previous authorization as a different repair was approved at a prior town meeting. - Increase Demand Fees: From $15 to $30 (maximum allowed by statute). Revenue from demand fees was approximately $100,000 last year. - Local Acceptance of Abandoned Property Statute: Allows the town to retain unclaimed funds (e.g., uncashed checks) after advertising, with an estimated $77,000 in outstanding checks. - Funding Non-Capital Projects: $50,000 from free cash for one-time expenses under $25,000 (e.g., sidewalk snowplow, mower, concrete repairs at Keith Field bleachers, audio/visual upgrades). - Stabilization Fund Transfers: Recommendations to be presented at the next meeting. 8. FY27 Budget Update - The school committee voted to reduce its operating budget by $478,532 to eliminate the budget shortfall. The select board will adjust the sources and uses accordingly. The board expressed appreciation and agreed to revisit the assistant town administrator position in the fall. Key Outcomes - Vote on Student Data Request: Unanimously approved motion to authorize drafting a letter requesting physical addresses of enrolled students from Upper Cape Tech. - Vote on Special License: Direction to contact legislative delegation to revise H584 to maintain non-transferable status. - Vote on One-Day Liquor License: Unanimously approved for GNS Marine on March 21, 2026. - Vote on Consent Agenda: Approved as presented. - Vote on Minutes: Approved minutes from February 2 and February 3, 2026. - Next Steps: The board will continue discussions on the FY27 budget, free cash allocations, and the assistant town administrator position. The next select board meeting is scheduled for March 31, 2026 (no meeting March 24 due to sewer meeting).

The Bourne Planning Board met on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 7:02 PM. The meeting was called to order with a personal note wishing Assistant Town Planner Sean Lewis well as he accepted a position in another town. The meeting was recorded for broadcast. Consent Calendar - Minutes of February 26, 2026: Approved with a correction changing a member from present to excused. Vote: 7 yes, 1 abstention. Discussion Items - Definitive Subdivision Approval – 115 Redbrook Harbor Road (Map 51.2, Parcel 5): Applicant Zach Bazinski (Bracken Engineering) and counsel Chris Picaro presented a proposal to create a single-family lot by constructing a paper street cul-de-sac to meet the 125-foot frontage requirement. They requested a waiver from constructing the road. Discussion centered on whether the lot was grandfathered under historical zoning changes, with the applicant noting research is ongoing to determine if the lot meets nonconforming lot protections. Board members expressed concerns about setting a precedent for paper streets on public roads and suggested alternatives (e.g., seeking a frontage variance from the ZBA). The applicant requested a continuance to complete grandfathering research. The hearing was continued to April 23, 2026. - Special Permit SP-1-2026 – 1 Harding Lane (Map 5.0, Parcel 45): Applicant Zach Bazinski (Bracken Engineering) requested approval to clear approximately 22,600 square feet of land to establish a building pad for a future single-family dwelling. The lot has extreme grade changes (from elevation 62 to 156). The proposal includes grading, boulder retaining walls, and erosion control. Board members discussed access easements, potential artifacts, and the need for tribal notification. The board approved the special permit unanimously with conditions: record the decision, notify tribes before construction, and submit a forest cover restoration plan before occupancy. Key Outcomes - Minutes of February 26, 2026: Approved with correction. - Definitive Subdivision (115 Redbrook Harbor Road): Continued to April 23, 2026. - Special Permit SP-1-2026 (1 Harding Lane): Approved unanimously (8-0). - Adjournment: Motion to adjourn carried unanimously at approximately 8:45 PM.

The joint meeting between the Bourne Select Board and School Committee convened on March 9, 2026, to address a $478,532 budget deficit for Fiscal Year 2027. The deficit arose primarily from higher-than-expected cherry sheet assessments, particularly school choice out and charter school tuition costs. The Select Board must present a balanced budget to the May 4, 2026 Town Meeting, and the meeting aimed to collaboratively identify potential reductions. Discussion Items - Town Administrator Marlene McCollum explained that the original deficit of approximately $729,000 was reduced by $250,000 after 14 students were reclassified by DESI (Department of Elementary and Secondary Education) as not residing in Bourne, leaving the current gap at $478,532. She noted that the cherry sheet assessments are school-related and that the Select Board must decide how to distribute cuts across all departments. - School Committee Chair Donnell Beale and members expressed that the school budget was built diligently and is in line with neighboring districts' per-pupil expenditures ($24,569 for Bourne vs. $24,000 for Wareham, $25,000+ for Falmouth, etc.). They emphasized that the budget already includes cuts and that they came to the table willing to help, but need a clear target number before making specific reductions. - Superintendent Dr. Joe and Director of Business Services Jordan Geist provided context: ESSER funds have been fully absorbed, the district faces a 42% increase in out-of-district special education costs since 2021, and enrollment volatility (e.g., Grade 5 may require a seventh track if registrations increase). They proposed a potential cut of a Grade 5 teaching position ($76,000) if enrollment stays at six tracks, but cautioned that this is uncertain. - School Committee member Maria Heaney raised the issue of potential retroactive reimbursement from UCT (Upper Cape Cod Regional Technical School) for previously misidentified students, noting that a letter had been sent to DESI. Select Board members clarified that while the UCT issue is separate from the cherry sheet deficit, any recovered funds would reduce the overall town deficit; however, it would be fiscally irresponsible to rely on an uncertain outcome. - Select Board member Peter Mart and others emphasized the need for collaboration, recalling a similar situation in 2015 when an override failed and cuts were equitably distributed. The board stressed that all town departments have already made sacrifices, including unfilled positions. - A public comment from a taxpayer questioned why UCT did not verify residency as Bourne Public Schools does, and suggested UCT be held accountable. The Town Administrator confirmed that 14 students were already adjusted, but 12 remain in question. Key Outcomes - No final decisions or votes were taken on specific cuts. The School Committee will hold a Budget and Facilities meeting on Friday, March 12, 2026, followed by a full School Committee meeting the next week to vote on potential reductions. - The Select Board will then determine the remaining cuts needed from municipal departments to close the $478,532 deficit, with the goal of presenting a balanced budget at the Finance Committee hearing on March 30, 2026. - Both boards agreed to continue communicating and to avoid layoff notifications until proposals are finalized; the select board will notify unions before any town employee reductions are announced. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 6:57 PM with all members voting in favor.

The Bourne Select Board met on March 3, 2026, at 7:00 PM. The meeting included discussions on the Southside Fire Station borrowing authority, a presentation from MassDOT on the Cape Cod Bridges project and Keith Field parking, budget updates, and other routine matters. The board took several votes, including approving a motion to delay bidding on the fire station until authorized, renewing an erosion protection license, and sending a letter to DESE regarding student residency discrepancies. Public Comments & Testimony - John York (resident) discussed inadequate snow removal from state-owned sidewalks along state roadways in Bourne. He noted that after the blizzard of 2026, many state sidewalks, including a newly constructed shared-use path along the Bourne Rail Trail, remained unplowed due to the retirement of a longtime road crew member and the lack of a written agreement between the town and the state. He urged the board to formalize sidewalk maintenance responsibilities. Discussion Items - Southside Fire Station Borrowing Authority: The board reviewed options to correct a legal defect in the warrant for the special town election that omitted the ballot question. Financial advisor Brenda (Bond Counsel) outlined three options: (1) wait for pending special legislation (already passed the House, awaiting Senate action), (2) redo the ballot question at a future election, or (3) pass a town meeting article not contingent on Prop 2.5 and then seek legislative exemption. The board noted a current deficit of approximately $500,000 on the article due to ongoing spending. MJ requested clarification of critical deadlines (e.g., warrant close on March 27, ballot creation by early April). The board unanimously voted to direct the building committee to finalize bid documents but not go out to bid until authorized by the select board. - MassDOT Cape Cod Bridges Project & Keith Field Parking: Louisa Pywanski, Executive Director of Megaprojects Delivery at MassDOT, provided an update: the final Environmental Impact Report was being filed for the Sagamore Bridge replacement, with $1.2 billion in federal funds secured and the state contributing nearly $750 million. Construction on the eastbound span is targeted for completion by 2033. MassDOT intends to request donation of the former fire station parcel (1025 Cranberry Hwy) for a construction area, a ramp, and a bicycle/pedestrian facility. Regarding Keith Field, MassDOT proposed replacing lost roadside parking with a lot on the south side of Sandwich Road, but the Rec Committee and several speakers (Cameron Wilson, John York) strongly opposed the location due to safety concerns for children crossing the road. MassDOT offered to work with the town on a safe crossing, such as a flashing light crosswalk. The board agreed to continue discussions and consider a public forum. No vote was taken, but the board expressed willingness to collaborate on a safe solution. - Upper Cape Tech Budget and Student Residency: Superintendent presented the FY27 assessment, which was revised to $4,438,051 (a decrease of $128,344 from the original proposal but still $128,344 over the January budget). A key issue emerged: 14 students were reclassified as non-Bourne residents after address verification, but 11 additional students remain in question due to the shared 02532 zip code with Wareham. The board debated the financial impact and the need for a permanent solution. A motion passed unanimously to send a letter to Robert O’Donnell at DESE requesting recalculation of the enrollment data and correction of the assessments. - FY27 Budget Amendments: Town Finance Director Erica Williams presented a supplemental budget adjustment sheet. Changes included increases for police patrol contract placeholder ($100,000), fire dispatch ($70,125), and adjustments to the governor's budget revenue projections. The net result is a general fund deficit of $478,532. Marlene, the Town Administrator, noted that cuts must be made and she would need time to develop a plan. The board must decide how to allocate reductions between town services and school education. - Planning Board Articles: Marlene reported that the Planning Board will not move forward with the seasonal communities designation or the tiny homes/small lots article at the May town meeting. - Memorial Plaque Request: A request to place a memorial plaque for Barbara Lease on an existing town-owned bench in Buzzards Bay Park was discussed. Board members raised concerns about setting a precedent for naming existing benches without donation. The matter was tabled pending a policy review and more detailed presentation from the requester. Key Outcomes - Southside Fire Station: Unanimously voted to hold the bid process until the select board authorizes it. The building committee may finalize documents but shall not release them. (Motion by Maria, second by Jean; all yes.) - Indian Trails Erosion Protection License Renewal: Unanimously approved renewal of the license for a five-year term, with removal of insurance requirements (sections 7A and 7A1). (Motion by Jean, second by Peter; 4-0 as MJ lost connection.) - Special Event Permits: Unanimously approved two birthday party events at Buzzards Bay Park on March 16 and June 20, 2026. - DESE Letter on Student Residency: Unanimously authorized the chair to send a letter to Robert O'Donnell at DESE requesting correction of the upper Cape Tech enrollment assessment, with a copy to the delegation. (Motion by Anne Marie, second by Jean; all yes.) - Consent Agenda: Approved as presented (motion by Anne Marie, second by Jean; roll call vote: all yes.) - Minutes: Approved for meetings on January 13, 20, 27, and February 26, 2026 (motion by Peter, second by Anne Marie; 4-0 as MJ abstained.) - Adjournment: Voted to adjourn (motion by Anne Marie, second by Peter; all yes.)

The Bourne Planning Board convened on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. The meeting was recorded for broadcast by Bourne TV. The board approved a site plan review for a new fire station, conducted a public hearing on proposed zoning bylaw amendments, and voted to advance some articles to the annual town meeting while holding others for further study. Consent Calendar - Minutes from February 12, 2026: Approved unanimously. Application for Site Plan Review SPR-517 (Bourne Southside Fire Station) The board considered a continuation of the application from January 22, 2026, for the construction of an 11,831-square-foot fire station at 171 Clay Pond Road (Map 31.4, Parcel 17) in a V Board District. Owner’s project manager Richard Palmer presented, noting that the applicant had since obtained ZBA approval. Engineer Spencer Linz (Pare Corporation) detailed modifications to address previous board comments: the stormwater discharge system was redesigned to include a plunge pool at the base of the 3:1 slope to reduce erosion, and calculations showed a 33% reduction in peak discharge (from 6.82 cfs to 4.58 cfs) and nearly two-thirds reduction in discharge volume (from 19,324 cf to 7,367 cf) for the 100-year storm. The 1-year storm is fully infiltrated. Landscape plan updates were made per board requests. Board members discussed lighting (glare shields on wall packs) and spigots for landscaping. Vote: Jim moved to approve the site plan review with conditions, seconded by Doc. The board voted unanimously (Corinne, Amanda, Jim, Liz, Dave, Chair – all yes). Conditions included: (1) compliance with town bylaws, (2) deferral to other departments, (3) tree protection, (4) as-built plan, (5) front-facing wall packs must have glare shields, (6) waivers for open space (24.7% vs. requirement), lot coverage (29.5% vs. requirement), and loading area requirements. Public Hearing on Zoning Bylaw Amendments for Annual Town Meeting 2026 Items A & B: Seasonal Communities Designation and Tiny Homes & Affordable Lots Board members discussed the proposed amendments to establish a seasonal communities designation and to create regulations for tiny homes and attainable/affordable lots. Town Planner Sean noted that the state’s regulations are evolving, and the board needs more time to study implications. Members raised concerns about the definition of tiny homes (e.g., wheels, registration with RMV), rental restrictions, and potential conflicts with existing bylaws. The consensus was to hold both items for further investigation, public outreach, and clarification before bringing them to a future town meeting. Vote: Jim moved to postpone Items A and B from the May town meeting for study and review, seconded by Dave. The board voted unanimously to hold. Item C: Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) Amendment Sean presented proposed changes to the ADU bylaw to comply with the state’s Affordable Homes Act of 2024. Key changes: (1) retaining a maximum size of 1,500 square feet or 50% of the primary dwelling (whichever is smaller) – more permissive than the state’s 900 sq ft or 50%; (2) requiring a supportive finding from the Zoning Board of Appeals for ADUs larger than 50% of the primary dwelling but under 1,500 sq ft; (3) removing minimum lot size and parking requirements that conflicted with state law (parking exception within ½ mile of a bus stop). After clarifying the language, the board found the amendment ready for town meeting. Vote: Jim moved to recommend the ADU amendment to the annual town meeting, seconded by Liz. The board voted unanimously (Corinne, Amanda, Catherine, Jim, Liz, Doc, Rob, Chair – all yes) to forward the article. Item D: Frontage in Downtown District Amendment Sean explained a proposed change to Section 2831 to allow parcels in the downtown district that are not on primary streets to have a front setback of 0 to 30 feet by right (previously 0 to 15 feet). The change affects purple parcels on a map and aims to provide flexibility for residential lots. The board agreed the amendment addresses a practical need. Vote: Jim moved to recommend the frontage amendment to the annual town meeting, seconded by Liz. The board voted unanimously to forward. Key Outcomes - Fire Station (SPR-517): Approved with conditions. Construction of a new 11,831 sq ft fire station at 171 Clay Pond Road. - Zoning Items A & B: Held for further study; will not appear on the May 2026 town meeting warrant. - Zoning Item C (ADUs): Recommended to the annual town meeting for adoption. - Zoning Item D (Downtown Frontage): Recommended to the annual town meeting for adoption. - Meeting adjourned unanimously.