Harwich public meetings in 2025

Caleb Chase Trustees

The Caleb Chase Trustees will meet to handle routine business including approving minutes, reviewing trust grants, and electing officers. They will also discuss the investment portfolio, market outlook, and potential investment actions, as well as set a date for the spring meeting.

• Review of Trust grants issued
• Approval of Grant Policies for 2026
• Election of officers
• Overview of Portfolio and Market Outlook
• Discussion of Invest Policy

Cultural Council

The Harwich Cultural Council is meeting to review grants for the current cycle, along with routine administrative items such as approving minutes and the treasurer's report. They will also discuss new email addresses and plan for the 2026 initiatives, including committee member outreach. The meeting is largely procedural, with the main substantive item being the grant review.

• Grant review for current cycle
• Approval of November minutes
• Treasurer's report
• Review of new email addresses
• Discussion of 2026 initiatives including new committee member outreach

Harwich Affordable Housing Trust

The Harwich Affordable Housing Trust will meet to reorganize its committee, vote on a funding application from Pine Oaks Village Homes for Pine Oaks Village IV, and discuss responses to a legal services RFP. Public comment is also scheduled.

• Committee reorganization vote
• Vote on Pine Oaks Village IV funding application
• Discussion and possible vote on legal services RFP responses

The Harwich Affordable Housing Trust (HAHT) met on December 22, 2025, and took no substantive votes on the Pine Oaks Village IV (POV IV) funding request. The board heard a presentation from the applicant and extensive public comment, with many residents opposing the project. The chair stated that decisions on supporting POV IV and funding would be made at a future meeting, possibly in the evening to accommodate more attendees. The only votes taken were to re-elect Brendan Lowney as Vice Chair and Bob Spencer as Clerk, both unanimously.

• Re-elected Brendan Lowney as Vice Chair (5-0)
• Re-elected Bob Spencer as Clerk (5-0)
• Deferred decision on Pine Oaks Village IV funding request (no vote taken)

Select Board

The Harwich Select Board will hold a regular meeting with an executive session for negotiations, followed by open session items including a joint meeting on the FY2027-2031 Capital Plan, updates on the 2026 Annual Town Meeting, and several license renewals. The board will also vote on a contract for the Route 39 and Chatham Road Intersection Project and discuss various town matters.

• Contract with Richard F. D’Ambrosia, Inc. for $326,295.60 for Route 39 and Chatham Road Intersection Project
• Recreation and Beach sticker fee increase recommendations
• New Common Victualler’s License for Twisted Turk-Pizza and More d/b/a Twisted Pizza – 181 Route 137
• 2026 license renewals for multiple businesses including Wequassett Resort & Golf Club, Noble House, Heart of the Sea, and others
• Joint meeting with Finance Committee and Capital Outlay Committee to present FY2027-2031 Capital Plan

The Select Board approved a $326,295.60 contract with Richard F. D'Ambrosia, Inc. for the Route 39 and Chatham Road Intersection Project. The board also approved 2026 entertainment and off-premises liquor license renewals, and voted to approve the MCOP police superiors contract in executive session. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included presentations on the capital plan, herring, and school district finances.

• Approved $326,295.60 contract with Richard F. D'Ambrosia, Inc. for Route 39/Chatham Road project (4-0)
• Approved 2026 entertainment license renewal for Wyndham Resort (4-0)
• Approved 2026 off-premises liquor license renewal for Maulik Corp d/b/a Value Mart (4-0)
• Approved MCOP police superiors contract in executive session (4-0)

Finance Committee

The Harwich Finance Committee is holding a joint meeting with the Select Board and Capital Outlay Committee. The sole substantive item is the presentation of the Fiscal Year 2027 through Fiscal Year 2031 Capital Plan and Capital Budget. No decisions are listed on the agenda; it is a presentation and discussion item.

• Presentation of FY2027-FY2031 Capital Plan and Capital Budget

Capital Outlay Committee

The Capital Outlay Committee is holding a joint meeting with the Select Board and Finance Committee to present the Fiscal Year 2027 through Fiscal Year 2031 Capital Plan and Capital Budget. This is a presentation and discussion item, not a final vote. The meeting is a regular session with remote participation available.

• Joint meeting with Select Board and Finance Committee
• Presentation of FY2027-FY2031 Capital Plan and Capital Budget

The Capital Outlay Committee held a joint meeting with the Select Board and Finance Committee to present the Fiscal Year 2027 through 2031 Capital Plan and Capital Budget. The committee discussed changes from the prior year's plan, including reductions and additions, and noted that the plan is subject to change through FY26 before Town Meeting. No formal votes were taken on the plan during this meeting; the only votes were to adjourn the respective meetings.

• Presented FY2027-FY2031 Capital Plan and Capital Budget to Select Board and Finance Committee
• Adjourned Capital Outlay Committee meeting (5-0)
• Adjourned Finance Committee meeting (7-0)

Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees

The Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees' Personnel Committee will meet to discuss changing the timing of job postings and preparatory work for recruiting the next Library Director. The committee will also enter executive session to discuss collective bargaining and litigation strategy with the Harwich Employees Association (HEA).

• Discussion on changing the timing of job postings
• Preparatory work for recruiting the next Library Director
• Executive session on collective bargaining and litigation with HEA (DLR Case No. MUP-24-10888)

Charter Commission

The Harwich Charter Commission will meet to continue its business, including discussion and possible votes on extending the time to appoint an acting town administrator, reviewing the draft annual report, and considering a charter/bylaw compliance concept. The agenda also includes approval of the previous meeting's minutes and public comments.

• Extension on time to appoint Acting Town Administrator
• Annual report draft review
• Charter/Bylaw compliance concept discussion

The Harwich Charter Commission approved the minutes from its December 11, 2025 meeting and voted to adjourn. Members also discussed including the Assessors in the charter, modifying acting town administrator time extensions, submitting the annual report draft with corrections, and establishing a Charter Compliance Commission.

• Approved minutes for December 11, 2025 (7-0)
• Approved submitting the annual report draft to the Select Board with noted corrections
• Adjourned the meeting at 8:07 PM (7-0)

Waterways Committee

The Harwich Waterways Committee meeting scheduled for December 17, 2025, was cancelled. The agenda included items such as new dock construction at 19 Walkerwoods Road, dock reconstruction at 32 Dunes Road, and an update on a proposed fee increase in the Harbor Management Plan Appendix.

• 19 Walkerwoods Road - new dock construction
• 32 Dunes Road - dock reconstruction
• Proposed fee increase in Harbor Management Plan Appendix

Council On Aging Board of Directors

The Harwich Council on Aging Board of Directors is meeting to approve minutes from November, hear a director's report on operations and volunteer needs, and review recommendations from a Needs Assessment study. The agenda is largely routine, with the needs assessment review being the main substantive item.

• Approval of minutes from November 19, 2025 meeting
• Director's report on current operations and volunteer recruitment
• Review of recommendations from Needs Assessment study

The Harwich Council on Aging Board of Directors met on December 17, 2025, and unanimously approved the previous meeting's minutes. The board discussed the director's report on holiday programs, fuel assistance, and space heater loans, and began ranking recommendations from a Needs Assessment, with outreach and information sharing identified as the top priority. No formal votes were taken on substantive policy decisions; discussion on the needs assessment will continue next month.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed space heater loan program, considering waiver requirement
• Ranked Needs Assessment recommendations, with outreach and information sharing as top priority
• Tabled further Needs Assessment discussion to next month

Historic District & Historical Commission

The Harwich Historic District and Historical Commission will hold a public hearing on a proposal to fully demolish the Cape Cod Bible Church at 611 Depot Street, a structure over 100 years old. The commission will also discuss appointing a representative to the Community Preservation Committee, a letter of support for the West Baptist Church case, and other old business items.

• Public hearing on demolition of Cape Cod Bible Church, 611 Depot Street (Map 56, Parcel P10-0)
• Discussion and possible vote for a Historic Commission representative to the CPC
• Letter of support to the CPC for the West Baptist Church case
• Discussion of Town Charter sections referring to the Historical Commission
• Discussion of West Harwich National Historic Register submission

The Harwich Historic District and Historical Commission voted unanimously to impose a four-month demolition delay on the Cape Cod Bible Church building at 611 Depot Street, allowing time to seek someone to move the structure. The board also approved the Preservation Award Program, appointed Lynne Zalesak as its representative to the CPC, and accepted Paul Mann's resignation.

• Imposed 4-month demolition delay on Cape Cod Bible Church, 611 Depot Street (5-0)
• Closed public hearing for HH2025-35 (5-0)
• Approved minutes of August 20, 2025 (5-0)
• Appointed Lynne Zalesak as HDHC representative to CPC (5-0)
• Approved Preservation Award Program with nomination requirements (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:20 PM (5-0)

Conservation Commission

The Harwich Conservation Commission will hold hearings on several applications, including a coastal storm flowage addition, a buffer zone project, a riverfront addition, and a float relocation with dredging. They will also discuss a conservation restriction and receive an update on fertilizer discussions. The meeting includes votes on approvals or continuances.

• Johnson-Leary Realty Trust: 31 sq ft addition at 5 Kildee Road in Coastal Storm Flowage area
• Deane Ferioli: addition, deck removal, paver patio, native plantings at 140 Forest Street
• Christopher & Megan Bloch: house addition and deck expansion in Riverfront Area at 7 Shoal Hope Drive
• Jeffrey Lang & Sandra Wycoff: float relocation and maintenance dredging at 11 River Bend Rd
• Conservation restriction on .89 acre at 19 and 25 Bonnie Lane for DiStasio

The Harwich Conservation Commission approved a Request for Determination of Applicability for a 31-square-foot addition at 5 Kildee Road with a negative two determination, and approved a Notice of Intent for an addition at 7 Shoal Hope Drive. Two hearings were continued to January 7, 2026, and an Order of Conditions was approved for a barn removal at 0 North Westgate Road. The commission also discussed a conservation restriction and fertilizer language but took no final action.

• Approved RDA for 5 Kildee Road addition with negative two determination (6-0)
• Approved NOI for 7 Shoal Hope Drive addition and deck expansion (6-0)
• Continued NOI hearing for 140 Forest Street to January 7, 2026 (6-0)
• Continued NOI hearing for 11 River Bend Road to January 7, 2026 (6-0)
• Approved Order of Conditions for barn removal at 0 North Westgate Road (6-0-1, Coulson abstained)

Board of Water/Wastewater Commissioners

The Board of Water/Wastewater Commissioners will vote on several contracts related to the Route 28 water main replacement project, including a GHD contract for the west portion, an amendment for construction oversight on the east portion, and owner's representative agreements with Waterworks Consulting LLC for both east and west portions. The board will also consider a water bill abatement for 5 Alexanders Chase and discuss a new town email system.

• Vote to approve GHD contract for west portion of Route 28
• Vote to approve GHD contract amendment for construction oversight on Route 28 East
• Vote to approve Waterworks Consulting LLC as owner's rep for Route 28 West and East
• Abatement request for 5 Alexanders Chase
• Update on Route 28 water main replacement project

The Board approved the GHD contract for the West portion of the Route 28 Water Main Replacement project and a contract with Waterworks Consulting LLC for owners' representative services. They also approved a $2,059.83 abatement for 5 Alexanders Chase under the disaster rate. Contracts for the East portion were deferred to the next agenda.

• Approved minutes of October 21, 2025 (3-0)
• Approved abatement of $2,059.83 for 5 Alexanders Chase (3-0)
• Approved GHD contract for West portion of Route 28 (3-0)
• Approved Waterworks Consulting LLC owners' rep contract for West portion (3-0)
• Deferred GHD amendment for East construction oversight to next agenda
• Deferred Waterworks Consulting LLC owners' rep contract for East to next agenda

Recreation and Youth Committee

The Harwich Recreation & Youth Commission will consider several items at its December 16, 2025 meeting. Members will discuss and vote on a recommendation to adjust the beach sticker fee. A vote will also be taken to support the Community Center basketball hoops project. The agenda includes reports, a review of October 21, 2025 minutes, and discussion of the Potter Field Dugout project.

• Beach Sticker Fee Recommendation – discussion and vote
• Community Center Basketball Hoops Project – vote to support
• Minutes – October 21, 2025
• Potter Field Dugout Project – old business discussion
• Budget Report (Fund 1540) – director and property maintenance reports

Harwich Housing Committee

The Harwich Housing Committee will meet to review updates from the Housing Coordinator and the Affordable Housing Trust. The committee will discuss its Annual Report and several housing-related topics.

• Annual Report
• Penrose 456 Main Proposal
• Inclusionary zoning
• ADUs
• Transfer fee

Board of Health

The Harwich Board of Health will review and vote on several variance requests for septic system setbacks and design, a preliminary nitrogen credit determination for a property, and modifications to the 2026 fee schedule and meeting schedule. The board will also consider new food service and mobile business licenses.

• Variance request at 176 South Street for septic setback and single-compartment tank for accessory dwelling unit
• Variance request at 47 & 52 North Road for septic setbacks, leaching field placement, and shared sewage system
• Preliminary determination of nitrogen credit land requirement for 8 Lakeway Lane
• Modification to 2026 Board of Health fee schedule to include $125 utility installer license fee
• New food service and mobile business licenses for Twisted Pizza and others

The Harwich Board of Health approved a variance request for 47 & 52 North Road, allowing a shared sewage system with conditions including a three-bedroom limit and required testing. The Board also approved the use of a single compartment tank for a proposed accessory dwelling unit at 176 South Street but denied the requested three-foot setback variance. A preliminary determination for nitrogen credit land at 8 Lakeway Lane was discussed but no action was taken.

• Approved variance request for 47 & 52 North Road with conditions (4-0)
• Approved single compartment tank use at 176 South Street (4-0)
• Denied three-foot setback variance at 176 South Street (4-0)
• Approved 2026 Board of Health fee schedule including $125 utility installer fee (4-0)
• Approved permits for mobile food and food establishments as printed (4-0)
• Approved minutes from October 21 and November 18, 2025 meetings (4-0)

Select Board

The Harwich Select Board will consider a range of items, including a gift acceptance, a bench dedication, and a public hearing on Transfer Station fee increases. The board will vote on the renewal of on‑premises and off‑premises liquor licenses for dozens of businesses for 2026, and will review an amendment to the municipal solid waste contract that sets a fee of $116.03 per ton for 2026. Additional discussion items include Verizon pole relocation, conduit installation requests, and updates on the town meeting and budget timeline.

• Accept a $5,000 gift from Jan Kalicki for children and homeless programs
• Approve a bench at Senior Memorial Field honoring Vahan “Van” Khachadoorian
• Approve 2026 liquor license renewals for 38 on‑premises and off‑premises establishments
• Approve amendment #1 to the Municipal Solid Waste contract with a $116.03/ton fee for 2026
• Public hearing on Transfer Station fee increases as recommended by the DPW Director

The Harwich Select Board approved a DPW recommendation to increase the residential transfer station permit fee from $160 to $200 and the tire fee from $3 to $10, effective July 1, 2026. The board also approved 20 on-premises and 7 off-premises liquor license renewals for 2026, along with auto class license renewals and a 5-year extension of the municipal solid waste contract with Reworld SEMASS. The board discussed the Wychmere Beach Club project and agreed to schedule Verizon before the board regarding post-construction conduit work.

• Approved transfer station fee increases: residential permit $160→$200, tires $3→$10, effective July 1, 2026 (4-0)
• Approved 20 on-premises liquor license renewals for 2026 (4-0)
• Approved 7 off-premises liquor license renewals for 2026 (4-0)
• Approved 2 auto class license renewals for 2026 (4-0)
• Authorized Chair to sign 5-year extension of municipal solid waste contract with Reworld SEMASS, 2026 fee $116.03/ton (4-0)
• Approved Verizon/Eversource pole relocation on Grassy Pond Road, with condition to restore disturbed land (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda including $5,000 gift from Jan Kalicki and bench at Senior Memorial Field (4-0)
• Agreed to schedule Verizon before the board regarding conduit work on Round Cove Road, Hawksnest Road, Route 137 and Halls Path

Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees

The Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees will meet jointly with the Select Board on Dec. 15, 2025. An executive session will be held to discuss strategy for collective bargaining with the Harwich Employees Association and related litigation (DLR Case No. MUP-24-10888).

• Executive session to discuss collective‑bargaining strategy with Harwich Employees Association and litigation (DLR Case No. MUP-24-10888)

Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees

The Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees will meet to discuss collective bargaining strategy with the Harwich Employees Association and ongoing litigation, followed by adjournment. The session includes an executive closed meeting under state law to protect bargaining and litigation positions.

• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy with Harwich Employees Association (HEA)
• Executive session to discuss litigation with HEA (DLR Case No. MUP-24-10888)

Community Center Facilities Committee

The Harwich Community Center Facilities Committee is meeting to approve prior minutes, receive reports on recreation and the Council on Aging, and discuss old business including the budget, room rental use policy, and weight room flooring. New business includes meeting with other community center committees and the 2025 Annual Town Report. The director will provide updates on programs and building operations.

• Budget discussion
• Room Rental Use Policy discussion
• Weight Room Flooring
• Meeting with other Community Center Committees
• 2025 Annual Town Report

Select Board

This is a procedural agenda. The Harwich Select Board will call the meeting to order, may participate in the Monomoy Regional School Committee meeting, and then adjourn. No specific decisions, votes, or discussion items are listed on the agenda.

• Meeting held at Monomoy Regional High School Library, 75 Oak Street
• Board may participate in Monomoy Regional School Committee meeting
• Meeting broadcast on Channel 22 and live-streamed on MRSC YouTube channel

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will meet to conduct regular business and review continuing items. The agenda includes a specific discussion regarding appointed town agencies.

• Discussion of Appointed Town Agencies

The Harwich Charter Commission approved sending a draft letter by Vice Chair Sandra Hall to the Chronicle and discussed plans to include MGL-required and regulatory committees in the Charter while placing others in By-laws. Members also discussed involving the Select Board and possibly extending the Acting Town Administrator period. No final decisions were made on these latter items.

• Approved minutes of December 4, 2025 as amended (7-0)
• Approved sending Ms. Hall's draft letter to the Chronicle (7-0)

Finance Committee

The Harwich Finance Committee is meeting to review the Capital Plan ahead of a joint meeting, discuss its annual report, possibly discuss the Monomoy School Agreement, and talk about the budget timeline. They will also vote on minutes from previous meetings. The agenda is mostly routine review and discussion items.

• Review Capital Plan in advance of joint meeting
• Review Finance Committee Annual Report
• Possible discussion on Monomoy School Agreement
• Budget timeline discussion
• Approval of minutes for November 10 and November 13, 2025

Community Preservation Committee

The Harwich Community Preservation Committee will continue presentations for 2025/2026 project applications, with two projects scheduled: a diagnostic assessment of Hinckley's Pond and exterior renovation of the West Harwich Baptist Church. The committee will also vote on rescinding open balances from several completed projects and reconsider a prior rescission for the Senior Memorial Field Restroom Project.

• Request: $138,000 for Hinckley's Pond diagnostic assessment (Harwich Natural Resources Department)
• Request: $667,500 for exterior renovation of West Harwich Baptist Church (John Carey, property owner)
• Vote to rescind $3,500 from South Harwich Gravestone Conservation Project (funded $23,000)
• Vote to rescind $18,502 from Beach AED Acquisition (funded $39,000)
• Vote to rescind $54,300 from Senior Memorial Softball Field Fencing (funded $110,000)

The Harwich Community Preservation Committee heard presentations for two 2025/2026 CPA funding requests: a $138,000 diagnostic assessment of Hinckley's Pond and a $667,300 exterior renovation of the Historic West Harwich Baptist Church. No funding decisions were made on these requests. The committee unanimously approved rescinding $76,302.06 in unspent balances from three completed 2024 projects and postponed a motion to reconsider a prior rescind pending a financial report.

• Approved minutes of December 4, 2025 (unanimous)
• Rescinded $3,500 from South Harwich Gravestone Conservation Project (unanimous)
• Rescinded $18,502.06 from Beach AED Acquisition (unanimous)
• Rescinded $54,300 from Senior Memorial Softball Field Fencing (unanimous)
• Postponed reconsideration of Senior Memorial Field Restroom rescind pending financial report
• Approved new CPA project sign design; 10 signs to be ordered

Cultural Council

The Harwich Cultural Council is meeting to review and continue the current grant cycle, including approving minutes and the treasurer's report. They will also discuss new email addresses and plan for 2026 initiatives, including member outreach. The meeting is largely procedural, with grant review as the main substantive item.

• Grant review for current cycle
• Approval of November minutes
• Treasurer's report
• Review of new email addresses
• 2026 Initiatives including new committee member outreach

Finance Committee

The Harwich Finance Committee will meet to review the Capital Plan in advance of a joint meeting, discuss the Finance Committee Annual Report, and consider a possible discussion on the Monomoy School Agreement. The meeting will also include approval of minutes from November 2025 and a budget timeline discussion.

• Review Capital Plan in advance of joint meeting
• Review Finance Committee Annual Report
• Possible Discussion on Monomoy School Agreement
• Approval of minutes from November 10 and November 13, 2025

Capital Outlay Committee

The Capital Outlay Committee will review changes to last year's Capital Plan and vote on the Capital Plan for Fiscal Years 2027 through 2031. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from December 2, 2025. This is a regular business session with no other substantive items listed.

• Vote on Capital Plan Fiscal Year 2027 through Fiscal Year 2031
• Discussion and review of changes to last year's Capital Plan
• Approve meeting minutes from December 2, 2025

The Capital Outlay Committee voted to approve the Capital Plan for FY2027 through FY2031, including specific allocations for various departments. The FY27 portion was approved with a total of $53,495,500 for FY28-FY31, with most votes unanimous. The plan is subject to change before Town Meeting.

• Approved $418,000 for Police Department (6-0)
• Approved $877,500 for Fire Department (6-0)
• Approved $80,000 for Department of Natural Resources truck (6-0)
• Approved $60,000 for Library rooftop unit and dehumidification (6-0)
• Approved $1,495,000 for Department of Public Works equipment (6-0)
• Approved $1,370,000 for Harbormaster (6-0)
• Approved $1,653,000 for Facilities and Maintenance (6-0)
• Approved $100,000 for Planning Department (4-2)

Brooks Academy Museum Commission

The commission will meet to discuss its charter and receive an update on restoration work and schedules. The body will also address the 2025 Town Meeting Report and the appointment of a new member.

• Discussion of Brooks Academy Museum Commission Charter
• Update on BAMC Restoration Work and schedule
• 2025 Town Meeting Report
• Discussion on new BAMC member

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Harwich Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on five special permit applications, each seeking relief from zoning by-laws to modify or replace pre-existing nonconforming structures. The board will also vote to approve minutes from its October and November meetings. All items are for decision at this meeting.

• Case 2025-53: Replace concrete patio with deck/stairs at 194 John Joseph Rd
• Case 2025-54: Two additions to dwelling at 41 Sequattom Rd
• Case 2025-55: Raze and replace dwelling at 75 Shore Rd
• Case 2025-56: Addition to dwelling at 22 Duke Ballem Rd
• Case 2025-57: One-story addition or variance at 11 Ruth Ln

The Harwich Zoning Board of Appeals granted all five special permit applications on the December 10, 2025 agenda, each by a 4-0 vote. The permits allow modifications to pre-existing nonconforming dwellings at 194 John Joseph Rd, 41 Sequattom Rd, 75 Shore Rd, 22 Duke Ballem Rd, and 11 Ruth Ln. All approvals include conditions restricting construction between June 30 and Labor Day and requiring construction vehicles to park on the applicant's property.

• Granted special permit for deck/patio work at 194 John Joseph Rd (4-0)
• Granted special permit for additions at 41 Sequattom Rd (4-0)
• Granted special permit to raze/replace dwelling at 75 Shore Rd (4-0)
• Granted special permit for addition at 22 Duke Ballem Rd (4-0)
• Granted special permit/variance for addition at 11 Ruth Ln (4-0)
• Approved October 29, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0-1, Murphy abstained)
• Approved November 17, 2025 meeting minutes as amended (4-0)

Planning Board

The Harwich Planning Board will hold a public hearing on case PB2025-11, a request by SS HPORT LLC for a multifamily special permit and site plan review to build a 28‑unit building at 606 Route 28. The agenda also includes updates from the town planner on the Local Comprehensive Plan, Open Space & Recreation Plan, Hazard Mitigation Plan, and the Zoning Working Group. A public hearing on Cape Cod Commission DRI File No. 25026 for the Wychmere Redevelopment Project is scheduled for December 16, 2025. No other decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Public hearing – Case PB2025-11: SS HPORT LLC seeks a multifamily special permit for a 28‑unit building at 606 Route 28 (approx. 76,226 sq ft parcel in CV and RL districts).
• Town Planner updates: Local Comprehensive Plan, Open Space & Recreation Plan, Hazard Mitigation Plan, Zoning Working Group.
• Cape Cod Commission DRI File No. 25026 – Wychmere Redevelopment Project public hearing set for Dec 16, 2025.
• No new business items listed; meeting is otherwise procedural.
• Related documents available on the Planning Board website and at Town Hall.

Traffic Safety Committee

The Harwich Traffic Safety Committee will discuss and possibly vote on several traffic safety items, including a sidewalk extension on Oak Street, a crosswalk at 182 Route 137, and intersection improvements at Pleasant Bay/Kendrick/Route 28. They will also receive updates on ongoing projects at Old Chatham Road/Route 39, Lothrop/Great Western, and Queen Anne Road/Route 124. The meeting is a regular session with public comment.

• Sidewalk request: Oak Street to Queen Anne Road (petition submitted)
• Crosswalk request at 182 Route 137 (petition submitted)
• Intersection discussion: Pleasant Bay/Kendrick/Route 28
• Update on Old Chatham Road/Route 39 project (construction cost estimate $360,977)
• Update on Lothrop and Great Western intersection

The Harwich Traffic Safety Committee voted unanimously to support engaging a traffic engineer to site a crosswalk at 182 Route 137. They also discussed a sidewalk extension on Oak Street, an intersection study at Pleasant Bay/Kendrick/Route 28, and received bids for an Old Chatham Road project. No other formal decisions were made.

• Voted to support engaging a traffic engineer to site a crosswalk at 182 Route 137 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of September 9, 2025 meeting
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Harwich Affordable Housing Trust

The Harwich Affordable Housing Trust is meeting to receive an update on the Pennrose development at 456 Queen Anne Road, vote on prior meeting minutes, and discuss areas of cooperation with the Harwich Housing Committee and Housing Advocate, including Accessory Dwelling Units, seasonal communities, and the 40Y Program.

• Update on Pennrose development at 456 Queen Anne Road
• Vote on minutes from November 10 and November 24, 2025
• Discussion with Harwich Housing Committee on cooperation areas: ADUs, Seasonal Communities, 40Y Program

The Harwich Affordable Housing Trust met on December 8, 2025, and discussed a $500,000 funding request for the Pennrose development at 456 Queen Anne Road. A motion to fund was made but not voted on; the board decided to bring it back for a vote at a future meeting. The trust also discussed cooperation with the Harwich Housing Committee on topics like ADUs, seasonal communities, and the 40Y Program, but took no formal votes on these items. The meeting adjourned at 2:50 PM.

• Deferred vote on $500,000 funding for Pennrose 456 Queen Anne Road development
• Approved minutes from November 10 and November 24, 2025 (implied, not explicitly voted)
• Scheduled December 22 meeting for Pennrose vote, legal RFP responses, and Pine Oaks IV discussion
• Scheduled January 12, 2026 meeting for John Carey application, West Harwich Square, and 265 Sisson Road

Select Board

The Harwich Select Board will meet to vote on several items including mooring servicing agent permits for 2026, liquor license renewals, and contracts totaling $163,656. They will also discuss fee increases for the Building Department and Golf Department, and review a final draft of the Hazard Mitigation Plan.

• Vote to approve 2026 mooring servicing agent permits for Allen Harbor Marine Services, Lower Cape Marine Services, and Harwich Port Boat Yard
• Vote to approve 2026 Innholders/Lodging and Common Victualler license renewals for multiple businesses
• Vote to approve contracts totaling $75,862 for Transfer Station repairs and $87,794 for Brooks Park Baseball Field Infield
• Public hearing on Building Department fee increases
• Vote on special permit for one-day liquor license for event at 203 Bank Street on December 22, 2025

The Harwich Select Board approved a new building permit fee structure of 1.2% of construction costs, effective January 1, 2026, along with a waiver policy for non-profit groups. The board also approved several contracts, including a $75,862 contract for Transfer Station repairs and an $87,794 contract for Brooks Park Baseball Field infield work. Additionally, the board authorized the submission of a hazard mitigation plan to FEMA and MEMA and approved multiple license renewals for local businesses.

• Approved new building permit fee structure at 1.2% of construction costs (5-0)
• Approved $75,862 contract with Atlantic Recycling for Transfer Station repairs (5-0)
• Approved $87,794 contract with NELM Corp for Brooks Park infield (5-0)
• Authorized submission of hazard mitigation plan to FEMA and MEMA (5-0)
• Approved 2026 mooring servicing agent permits for three companies (5-0)
• Approved 2026 Cranberry Valley golf rates and fees (5-0)
• Approved 2026 Innholders/Lodging, Common Victualler, Auto Class, and Entertainment license renewals (5-0, with one 3-2 vote)
• Authorized drafting of letter to Cape Cod Commission regarding Pine Oaks Village IV (5-0)

Harwich Housing Committee

This is a brief procedural agenda for a joint meeting of the Harwich Housing Committee and the Affordable Housing Trust. The only listed items are roll call and adjournment, with no substantive discussion items specified.

• Joint meeting with the Affordable Housing Trust

Historic District & Historical Commission

The Harwich Historic District and Historical Commission will meet to discuss establishing an annual Preservation Award(s) Program. This is a discussion item only, with no final decision scheduled. The agenda includes public comment and planning for the next meeting.

• Discussion of an Annual Harwich Preservation Award(s) Program

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will meet to continue discussions on town governance. The body is reviewing specific chapters regarding elected town officers and appointed town agencies.

• Discussion of Chapter 6: Elected Town Officers and Town Agencies
• Discussion of Chapter 7: Appointed Town Agencies

Community Preservation Committee

The Harwich Community Preservation Committee will hear presentations of three 2025/2026 funding requests totaling $550,000. Applicants include the town Recreation Department for an irrigation replacement project and Pennrose LLC for two Chatham projects. The meeting will also include discussion of a grant agreement and updates on signs, social media, and the website.

• Recreation Department Fields Irrigation Replacement Project – request $350,000
• CH 3 Chatham Meeting House Road Project – request $100,000
• CH 5 Chatham 1533 Main Street Project – request $100,000
• Discussion: Grant Agreement Review (old business)
• Update: Signs (old business)

The Harwich Community Preservation Committee met on December 4, 2025, and heard presentations for three 2025/2026 Community Preservation Act funding requests: a $350,000 request to replace irrigation systems at three recreation fields, and two $100,000 requests from Pennrose LLC for affordable housing projects in Chatham. No votes were taken on these requests; the committee will continue presentations at its next meeting. The committee also approved the November 13, 2025 meeting minutes and discussed administrative updates.

• Approved November 13, 2025 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Heard presentation for $350,000 recreation fields irrigation replacement request
• Heard presentation for $100,000 Chatham 1533 Main Street affordable housing request
• Heard presentation for $100,000 Chatham Meetinghouse Road affordable housing request
• Postponed grant agreement discussion to another meeting
• Decided not to post update reports on webpage; will include in meeting minutes

Town Administrator Screening Committee

The Harwich Town Administrator Search Committee will meet to consider and interview candidates for the town administrator position. The committee is expected to vote to enter executive session, citing the need to protect candidate confidentiality, and will not return to public session. This is a preliminary screening step, and no public decisions are expected.

• Motion to enter executive session under MGL c.30A s.21 (a)(8) to consider or interview town administrator candidates
• Meeting held at Fire Station 2, 1464 Orleans-Harwich Road, Harwich, MA
• Committee will not return to public session after executive session

Select Board

The Harwich Select Board will meet to interview candidates for the town’s Hall of Fame, reviewing three nominees. The meeting will also include miscellaneous discussions about interview procedures and appointments.

• Review Hall of Fame nominations: Peter Hughes, Grace Ann Filliman, Paul Doane
• Discuss interview procedures and appointment processes

Cemetery Commission

The Harwich Cemetery Commission is meeting to discuss correspondence, old business, and new business. Key items include an FY27 budget submission from the Acting Town Administrator, a request about wreath placement at Revolutionary War veterans' graves, updates on cemetery accounts and Community Preservation Act projects, and approval of bills totaling $831.23.

• FY27 Budget submission email from Acting Town Administrator Antony Schiavi
• Request from Georgia Smith (Women's Club) for wreath placement at E.H. Union Cemetery Revolutionary War veterans' graves
• Update on Cemetery Revolving Account, Trust, and Budget year-to-date
• CPC Articles update: BID packet for Revolutionary War Veterans sent to Meggan Eldredge; North Harwich Gravestone Preservation bid received
• Bills: Eversource $17.54, Amazon $63.69, Ahead with Class $750.00 and mileage

Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees

The Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees will meet to discuss the recruitment process for the next Library Director. The board will also consider accepting monetary donations and a statue donation.

• Discussion and possible vote on Recruitment Plan/Process for Next Library Director
• Vote to accept monetary donations
• Offer to donate Rogers Group statue “The Referee”
• Discussion of holiday hours

The Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees voted 5-0 to have the Chair send a letter to the HEA denying a grievance filed by Hea regarding the Friends' Sunday lecture and the library's hiring of a non-HEA person. The Director had already denied the grievance, noting the library did not hire anyone; the external group Friends did the hiring. The board also approved the November minutes, sent a letter to ATA Schiavi disagreeing with a proposed step 10 salary for the Director position, and tabled the Rogers Statue donation pending more information.

• Approved regular session minutes for 11/5/2025 (4-0-0)
• Approved motion to send letter to ATA Schiavi regarding Trustee disagreement with step 10 for Director position (5-0-0)
• Voted to have Chair send letter to HEA citing denial of grievance (5-0-0)
• Tabled Rogers Statue donation until pictures and assessment are received
• Voted to adjourn into executive session and not return to public session (5-0-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold hearings on several Notices of Intent for residential and organizational projects. The body will also discuss a draft warrant article regarding landscape and fertilizer application requirements.

• Draft warrant article for Licensing and Reporting Requirements for Landscape, Fertilizer, and Plant Nutrient Application
• Notice of Intent for 7 Shoal Hope Drive: house addition and deck expansion in riverfront area
• Notice of Intent for 0 North Westgate Road: barn and concrete slab removal
• Notice of Intent for 32 Dunes Road: reconstruction of walkway, pier, ramp, and float in Oyster Pond
• Discussion of violation at 0 Standish Woods Circle

The Harwich Conservation Commission approved several Notices of Intent, including a dock replacement at 35 Snow Inn Road, a house addition at 7 Shoal Hope Drive, and a barn removal at 0 North Westgate Road. It also approved two Certificates of Compliance, closed a hearing for a dock reconstruction at 31 Mill Rd, and approved a violation enforcement order for unauthorized tree clearing at 0 Standish Woods Circle. Several other hearings were continued to future meetings pending DEP numbers or design revisions.

• Approved Change of Plan for dock at 35 Snow Inn Road with CCA wood stipulation (6-0)
• Approved Notice of Intent for house addition at 7 Shoal Hope Drive (6-0)
• Approved Notice of Intent for barn removal at 0 North Westgate Road (5-0-1, Coulson recused)
• Continued hearing for float relocation at 11 River Bend Road to Dec 17 (6-0)
• Continued hearing for walkway reconstruction at 32 Dunes Road to Jan 7, 2026 (6-0)
• Continued hearing for pier/float at 37 Nons Rd to Jan 7, 2026 (6-0)
• Closed hearing and approved Order of Conditions for dock at 31 Mill Rd (5-0-1, Cyr recused)
• Approved violation enforcement order for tree clearing at 0 Standish Woods Circle (6-0)

Town Administrator Screening Committee

The Town Administrator Search Committee will meet to consider or interview candidates for the town administrator position. The committee intends to move into executive session for the duration of the meeting to avoid deterring qualified applicants.

• Interviews or consideration of candidates for Town Administrator

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings regarding a multifamily housing project and a modification to a mixed-use permit. The board will also consider a request to move a common property line between two lots.

• Special Permit request for 4 one-bedroom apartments and a storage garage at 33 Old Colony Road
• Modification request for hours of operation at 575 Route 28
• Approval Not Required (ANR) Plan to move the common property line for 5 Brooks Road and 7 Dunes Road

Capital Outlay Committee

The Capital Outlay Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially vote on departmental capital requests for fiscal years 2027 through 2031, covering the Brooks Free Library, Planning, Conservation, Natural Resources, Harbormaster, and Harwich Elementary School (presented by the Monomoy Regional School District). The committee will also decide next steps on the Capital Outlay Plan. The agenda includes only one consent item: approving minutes from the November 19, 2025 meeting.

• Discussion and possible vote on FY2027-FY2031 capital requests from Brooks Free Library, Planning, Conservation/Natural Resources/Harbormaster, and Harwich Elementary School
• Harwich Elementary School presentation by Monomoy Regional School District representatives
• Decisions on next steps for the Capital Outlay Plan
• Approve meeting minutes from November 19, 2025

The committee reviewed capital project proposals from the Brooks Free Library, Planning Department, Conservation Department, and Monomoy Regional School District. No final votes were taken on the capital plan or funding sources; the committee scheduled a vote on the plan for December 10, 2025.

• Approved November 19, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 1:10 PM (4-0)

Local Planning Committee

The Harwich Local Planning Committee is meeting to review the revised final Local Comprehensive Plan (LCP), incorporating comments from the Cape Cod Commission and adding a cultural heritage section. They will also rank new actions, follow up on pending revisions, and discuss scheduling for Town Meeting and warrant posting.

• Review revised final LCP with Cape Cod Commission comments
• Review new actions and complete lead and priority ranking
• Follow up on pending LCP revisions including tax and conservation appendix
• Discuss Selectboard date for LPC check-in
• Finalize date for spring socialization of LCP for Town Meeting

The Harwich Local Planning Committee reviewed the revised final Local Comprehensive Plan (LCP), including edits responding to Cape Cod Commission comments, and discussed new actions for natural resources, stormwater, and wetlands. They approved the November 13, 2025 minutes. No formal votes were taken on the LCP itself; the committee scheduled a check-in with the Select Board for January 5 or 12, 2026, and planned a spring socialization of the plan before Town Meeting.

• Approved November 13, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Reviewed revised LCP with CCC comments and new actions for natural resources, stormwater, and wetlands
• Scheduled LPC check-in with Select Board for 1/5/26 or 1/12/26
• Planned spring socialization of LCP before Town Meeting
• Adjourned at 6:02 pm (unanimous)

Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees

The Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees Personnel Committee will meet to approve prior meeting minutes and begin preparatory work for recruiting the next library director. The board will also enter an executive session to discuss collective bargaining or litigation strategy regarding a case with the Harwich Employees Association.

• Vote to approve October 30, 2025 meeting minutes
• Preparatory work on recruitment process for next Library Director
• Executive session under MGL c.30A section 21(a)(3) for collective bargaining/litigation strategy
• Reference to Harwich Employees Association (HEA) and Mass. Dept. of Labor Relations Case No. MUP-24-10888

Town Administrator Screening Committee

The committee is meeting to consider or interview candidates for the town administrator position. The meeting is scheduled to move into executive session and will not return to public session.

• Interviews or consideration of applicants for town administrator

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Harwich Zoning Board of Appeals will deliberate on a Comprehensive Permit application (Case No. 2025-21) from Queen Anne Acres LLC and Mid Cape Church Homes, Inc. (d/b/a Pine Oaks Village Homes) to build 242 rental units in five corridor and five townhouse buildings on Queen Anne Road and nearby parcels. The board is not taking public testimony at this meeting; it is a deliberation session. The agenda includes only this item, plus routine procedural sections.

• Comprehensive Permit application for 242 rental units under MGL Chapter 40B
• Property locations: 0, 55, 57, 99 Queen Anne Rd; 0 Annasis Rd; 0 and 324 Main St
• Buildings: 5 corridor buildings and 5 townhouse buildings
• Located in the RL Zoning District

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors and Board of Selectmen will hold a joint public hearing. The body will decide if all property should be taxed at the same rate for Fiscal Year 2026.

• Classification Hearing regarding property tax rates for Fiscal Year 2026

The Board of Assessors and Select Board held a joint classification hearing and voted to maintain a single tax rate for all property classes in Fiscal Year 2026. The Select Board unanimously approved a residential factor of 1, and declined to grant an open space discount, residential exemption, or small business exemption. The Board of Assessors had previously recommended these actions.

• Approved residential factor of 1 for FY2026 (5-0)
• Denied open space discount
• Denied residential exemption
• Denied small business exemption

Board of Assessors

The Harwich Board of Assessors will meet to handle routine business, including approving minutes, reviewing the October sales report, and preparing for the classification hearing. They will also vote to authorize the assessor to sign the LA-4 form. An executive session is scheduled to discuss exemptions and abatements.

• Approval of minutes from 11/5/2025 and 11/17/2025
• Review of October sales report
• Preparation for classification hearing
• Vote to authorize assessor to sign LA-4
• Executive session on exemptions and abatements

The Board of Assessors approved the 2026 motor vehicle cutoff date and authorized the assessor to sign the LA-4 form. They also accepted the minutes from the November 5, 2025 meeting, excluding executive session minutes. No December meeting was scheduled, and the board entered executive session for a personnel matter.

• Approved 2026 motor vehicle cutoff date
• Approved assessor to sign LA-4
• Accepted minutes of 11/5/2025, excluding executive minutes
• No December meeting scheduled

Select Board

The Harwich Select Board will hold a public hearing on property tax classification for FY2026, vote on several appointments and licenses, and consider a $178,000 contract for engineering services for the Route 28 sewer project. They will also discuss a DPW restructure and a possible entertainment policy. The meeting includes an executive session for labor negotiations and real estate discussions.

• Vote on $178,000 contract with GHD for Route 28 Phase 1 Sewer Construction engineering
• Public hearing on FY2026 property tax classification (single vs. split rate)
• Vote to approve Jennifer Mince as Finance Director/Town Accountant effective Dec 1, 2025
• Vote on four Select Board holidays: Dec 24 & 31 half-day closures, Dec 26 & Jan 2 full-day closures
• DPW restructure presentation and proposal to add Deputy DPW Director to Personnel By-Law

The Select Board voted unanimously to set a residential factor of 1, meaning all property is taxed at the same rate of $5.69 per thousand for FY2026, and declined to grant open space, residential, or small commercial exemptions. The board also approved a reorganization of the Department of Public Works, creating a Deputy DPW Director position, and approved a $178,000 engineering contract for the Route 28 sewer project.

• Approved residential factor of 1, single tax rate $5.69 per thousand (5-0)
• Denied open space, residential, and small commercial exemptions (5-0 each)
• Approved DPW reorganization and creation of Deputy DPW Director (5-0)
• Approved $178,000 contract with GHD for Route 28 sewer engineering (5-0)
• Approved four Select Board holidays at Town Offices (4-1)
• Approved appointment of Jennifer Mince as Finance Director/Town Accountant (5-0)
• Approved temporary closure for Cape Sea Grille (5-0)
• Approved 2026 entertainment license renewals except 400 East (5-0)

Harwich Affordable Housing Trust

The Harwich Affordable Housing Trust will reorganize its board and discuss proposals for three town-owned properties. A senior advisor from the Massachusetts Housing Partnership will join the meeting to review requests for proposals for 0 Oak Street, 0 Depot Street, and 0 Depot Road. The board will also vote on retaining counsel to negotiate a new lease with the Harwich Jr. Theatre at 265 Sisson Road.

• Discussion with Laura Shufelt on RFPs for 0 Oak Street, 0 Depot Street, and 0 Depot Road (Parcels J1, J2, J3)
• Vote to retain counsel for lease negotiations with Harwich Jr. Theatre at 265 Sisson Road

The Harwich Affordable Housing Trust voted unanimously to conduct perk tests and engage the Massachusetts Housing Partnership for site planning on three properties (0 Oak Street, 0 Depot Street, and 0 Depot Road). They also approved applying for a forgivable loan up to $50,000 to cover development viability costs, and voted to retain outside legal counsel for lease negotiations with the Harwich Junior Theatre at 265 Sisson Road. The reorganization of the trust was postponed to the next meeting.

• Approved perk test for 0 Oak Street (4-0)
• Approved engaging MHP for site plan and perk test for 0 Depot Street (4-0)
• Approved applying for $50,000 forgivable loan for 0 Depot Road viability (4-0)
• Approved retaining legal counsel for 265 Sisson Road lease (4-0)

Real Estate and Open Space Committee

The Harwich Real Estate and Open Space Committee will meet to discuss follow-through on prior recommendations with the Acting Town Administrator and vote on rescinding a June 2025 decision regarding two representatives to an ad hoc committee. The committee will also select one new member to represent REOS and vote on approving a final parcel list.

• Vote to rescind June 20, 2025 vote for two REOS representatives to ad hoc committee
• Vote to select one REOS member for ad hoc committee
• Vote on approving final parcel list
• Discussion with Acting Town Administrator Anthony Schiavi on REOS objectives
• Presentation of 2025 Harwich Parcel Analysis map

The Harwich Real Estate and Open Space Committee approved minutes from October 17, 2025, and voted to support an ad hoc committee's effort to classify existing municipal properties. The committee also adjusted its representation on the ad hoc committee to comply with Open Meeting Law rules and discussed unacted-upon recommendations with the acting town administrator.

• Accepted minutes for the October 17, 2025 meeting (all in favor)
• Voted 5-1 to support the joint effort of the ad hoc committee to identify and classify existing municipal properties under selectmen control to pertinent town departments
• Rescinded the June 20, 2025 vote for two REOS representatives to the ad hoc committee due to Open Meeting Law rules (all in favor)
• Voted for one member to represent REOS on the ad hoc committee (all in favor)
• Adjourned the meeting at 9:56 A.M. (all in favor)

Charter Commission

The Harwich Charter Commission will meet to discuss the town's charter, including a review of the open issues list and Chapter 6 on elected town officers and town agencies. They will also hold a discussion with the Harwich Water/Wastewater Commissioners. The meeting is primarily for continuing business and public comment.

• Discussion with Harwich Water/Wastewater Commissioners
• Review of open issues list
• Review of Chapter 6: Elected Town Officers and Town Agencies

The Harwich Charter Commission met on November 20, 2025, and approved the prior meeting's minutes. They heard from the Water/Wastewater Commissioners, who raised concerns about charter language that they say constrains their authority, particularly regarding the superintendent's hiring/removal and the split of duties with the Select Board. The Commission discussed but did not decide on whether certain boards should be elected or appointed, agreeing to continue that discussion at the next meeting. No formal votes were taken on these substantive issues.

• Approved minutes of November 13, 2025 (9-0)
• Heard Water/Wastewater Commissioners' recommendations on charter language, no action taken
• Discussed elected vs. appointed boards, deferred to next meeting
• Agreed to use town email for future correspondence
• Adjourned at 8:23 PM (9-0)

Board of Water/Wastewater Commissioners

The Harwich Board of Water/Wastewater Commissioners is holding a joint meeting with the Charter Commission. The agenda includes a call to order, the joint meeting, and adjournment, with no specific items listed for discussion or decision.

• Joint meeting with Charter Commission

The Board of Water/Wastewater Commissioners held a joint session with the Charter Commission to review and discuss potential charter issues. No formal votes were taken, as the meeting focused on presenting compiled comments and gathering feedback for future consideration by the Board.

• Discussed charter issues related to board operations
• Requested additional feedback on charter items

Waterways Committee

The Waterways Committee will consider dock and mooring requests for specific properties and review freshwater pond boat rinsing regulations. The committee will also discuss letters of support for Community Preservation Committee projects.

• Letters of support for CPC projects: Water Quality, Hinckleys Pond, and Shellfish Lab
• Dock relocation at 11 River Bend Road
• Seasonal freshwater dock and swim platform mooring at 19 Walkerwoods Road
• Revised plans for dock construction and dredging at 37 Nons Road
• Review of freshwater pond boat rinsing regulations for the Harbor Management Plan

The Harwich Waterways Committee voted 4-0 to not support the revised dock construction and dredging plan at 37 Nons Road due to concerns about channel encroachment and shellfish habitat. The committee also approved letters of support for three CPC projects, approved a dock relocation at 11 River Bend Road, accepted a revised Harbor Management Plan, and approved the October minutes.

• Approved October 15, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Approved letters of support for CPC projects: water quality, Hinckleys Pond, shellfish lab (4-0)
• Approved dock relocation at 11 River Bend Road with Harbormaster conditions (4-0)
• Accepted revised Harbor Management Plan (4-0)
• Denied support for 37 Nons Road dock plan #4188-06 dated 10/09/25 (4-0)

Select Board

The Select Board Interview Committee is meeting to interview a candidate for the Cultural Council. The committee will also discuss and review three nominations for the Hall of Fame.

• Interview of Christine Johnson-Duell for the Cultural Council
• Review of Hall of Fame nomination for Peter Hughes
• Review of Hall of Fame nomination for Grace Ann Filliman
• Review of Hall of Fame nomination for Paul Doane

Capital Outlay Committee

The Capital Outlay Committee will discuss and potentially vote on capital plans for Fiscal Year 2027 through Fiscal Year 2031. The discussion covers Information Technology, Department of Public Works, and Facilities Maintenance. The committee will also determine next steps for the Capital Outlay Plan.

• Vote on FY2027-FY2031 capital plans for Information Technology
• Vote on FY2027-FY2031 capital plans for Department of Public Works
• Vote on FY2027-FY2031 capital plans for Facilities Maintenance
• Decisions regarding next steps on Capital Outlay Plan

The Capital Outlay Committee met to review departmental capital requests for FY27-31, including DPW, IT, and facilities maintenance. No formal votes were taken on the capital plan; the committee only approved the minutes from previous meetings and scheduled a joint meeting with the Finance Committee and Select Board for December 22. The next COC meeting is set for December 2.

• Approved minutes of November 5, 2025, with edits (5-0)
• Approved minutes of November 12, 2025, with changes (5-0)
• Scheduled joint meeting with Finance Committee and Select Board for December 22

Council On Aging Board of Directors

The Council on Aging Board of Directors will meet to discuss current and anticipated operations. The board will also review volunteer recruitment and a needs assessment.

• Director's report on operations
• Volunteer needs, recruitment, and training
• Needs Assessment

The board discussed the recent needs assessment presentation and agreed to submit individual rankings of the assessment's six main goals to the COA Director. Members also reviewed holiday program updates, the FY27 budget submission, and a $5,000 donation from the Friends of the Harwich COA.

• Approved minutes from previous meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 11:02am (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Harwich Conservation Commission approved the Kiwanis Club's 5K fundraising trail run in Bells Neck Conservation Area for April 26, 2026, with a 6-0 vote. The commission also approved three Notices of Intent for dock reconstruction, a house addition, and an inground pool, plus two Orders of Conditions. A request for a Certificate of Compliance was tabled until Spring 2026.

• Approved Kiwanis Club 5K run in Bells Neck Conservation Area (6-0)
• Approved Notice of Intent for dock reconstruction at 31 Mill Rd & 6 Brora Dr (5-0-1, Cyr abstained)
• Approved Notice of Intent for house addition at 17 Dunes Road (6-0)
• Approved Order of Conditions for house addition with stipulation on rosa ragusa pruning (6-0)
• Approved Order of Conditions for inground pool at 25 Monomoy Road (6-0)
• Approved Order of Conditions for stone revetment repair at 2257 Route 28 (6-0)
• Tabled Certificate of Compliance for garage at 141 Bank St until Spring 2026
• Approved November 5, 2025 meeting minutes (6-0)

Planning Board

The Harwich Planning Board will hold a continued public hearing on a special permit and site plan review for a proposed 28-unit multifamily structure at 606 Route 28. The board will also consider an Approval Not Required (ANR) plan for a property line adjustment on Caldwell Lane and adopt recent meeting minutes. Updates on local planning documents, including a hazard mitigation plan, will be presented.

• Multifamily Special Permit and Site Plan Review for 28-unit structure at 606 Route 28 (PB2025-11 SS HPORT LLC)
• Approval Not Required (ANR) Plan for property line adjustment on Caldwell Lane (PB2025-35)
• Adoption of meeting minutes from May 5 to August 26, 2025
• Presentation of final draft Hazard Mitigation Plan update on December 4, 2025
• Public comment period open for Hazard Mitigation Plan until December 10, 2025

Board of Health

The Harwich Board of Health will consider a variance request from Title 5 and town regulations to allow a garage foundation 8 feet from a soil absorption system, where 10 feet is required. They will also discuss a citizen petition on fertilizer and pesticide reduction, set the 2026 meeting schedule, and vote on new licenses.

• Variance request for 2-foot setback reduction at 12 Sea Way
• Discussion with Patrick Otton on Home Rule Fertilizer and Pesticide Reduction petition
• 2026 Board of Health meeting schedule vote
• New licenses for food events and a utility installer
• Health Director report for November 2025

The Board of Health approved a two-foot septic system setback variance for 12 Sea Way, subject to conditions restricting the home to five bedrooms and requiring further review before finishing the basement. The Board also approved the 2026 meeting schedule and several new event and utility permits. Additionally, members discussed a citizen petition regarding home rule authority for fertilizer and pesticide reduction.

• Approved septic variance for 12 Sea Way (5-0)
• Approved 2026 Board of Health meeting schedule (5-0)
• Approved five event and one utility installer permits (5-0)
• Tabled October 21, 2025, meeting minutes to December 15, 2025 (5-0)

Harwich Housing Authority

The Harwich Housing Authority will meet to review financial statements and approve warrants. The board will also consider the budget for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2026.

• Review and approval of Budget for F/Y/E 9/30/2026
• Approval of warrants 2025.7, 2025.8, 2025.9 and 2025.10
• Review and approval of Wage Match Authorizations
• Review and approval of Year-End Certifications
• Financial Report for Year End Financial Statements 9/30/2025

The Harwich Housing Authority Board approved the proposed budget for fiscal year-end 9/30/2026, along with several financial and administrative items. All votes were unanimous. No public comments were made, and no old business was discussed.

• Approved FY2026 budget (unanimous)
• Approved Year-End Financial Report for 9/30/2025 (unanimous)
• Approved warrants #2025.7, 2025.8, 2025.9, 2025.10 (unanimous)
• Accepted Executive Director's report for November 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Wage Match Authorizations for FY2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Year-End Certifications for 9/30/2025 (unanimous)

Golf Committee

The Harwich Golf Committee is holding a public hearing on the Director of Golf's recommended rates and fees for the 2026 season, with public comment limited to 2 minutes per speaker. Following the hearing, the committee may vote on the 2026 rates and fees. The agenda also includes approval of October meeting minutes and the Director's Report.

• Public hearing on 2026 rates and fees
• Director of Golf presents rate and fee recommendation
• Possible vote on 2026 rates and fees
• Approval of October meeting minutes
• Director's Report

Council On Aging Board of Directors

The Harwich Council on Aging Board of Directors is meeting to receive a presentation from UMass Boston on the findings of a needs assessment. The agenda includes time for questions and public comment. No decisions or votes are listed on this agenda.

• Presentation by UMass Boston on Needs Assessment Findings
• Q&A and public comment session

Board of Water/Wastewater Commissioners

The Board of Water & Wastewater Commissioners will discuss and potentially vote on capital plans for 2027-2031. The meeting includes reviews of draft budgets for the 2027 fiscal year and a vote on FY26 water liens.

• FY26 Water Liens vote
• FY27 Draft Water and Wastewater Budgets
• FY27-FY31 Water and Wastewater Capital Plans
• Discussion of Tap Fees
• Update on Route 28 Water Main Replacement Project

The Board approved the FY26 Water Lien list not to exceed $34,150.27, and approved the FY27-FY31 Water and Wastewater Capital Plans. An abatement for 5 Alexanders Chase was initially moved to initiate the disaster rate, but the motion was withdrawn for more information; the request will be revisited. An abatement for 70 Schooner Dr. was denied. FY27 draft budgets were discussed but will return at the next meeting.

• Approved FY26 Water Lien list not to exceed $34,150.27 (5-0)
• Approved FY27-FY31 Water Capital Plan (4-0)
• Approved FY27-FY31 Wastewater Capital Plan (4-0)
• Denied abatement for 70 Schooner Dr. (5-0)
• Withdrew motion to initiate disaster rate for 5 Alexanders Chase; revisit next meeting (5-0)
• Authorized half day on Dec 18, 2025 for staff to attend BCWA meeting (3-0)

Board of Assessors

The Harwich Board of Assessors will hold a meeting to review office updates, approve minutes, and discuss a presentation on residential tax exemption with the Select Board. No substantive decisions are listed on the agenda.

The Board of Assessors met on November 17, 2025, and the only substantive item was a presentation to the Select Board regarding the Residential Exemption. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was otherwise procedural, including public comment, old and new business, and adjournment.

• Adjourned at 8:10 p.m. (motion by Nightingale, seconded by Kavanaugh, so voted)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Harwich Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a continued public hearing on a comprehensive permit application for a 242-unit rental development on Queen Anne Road. The board will discuss key impact areas, hear public comments, and may vote to close the hearing and continue deliberations to December 1, 2025.

• Comprehensive permit application for 242 rental units in 5 corridor and 5 townhouse buildings
• Properties at 0, 55, 57, 99 Queen Anne Rd, 0 Annasis Rd, 0, 324 Main St, and adjacent parcels
• Discussion of stormwater, wastewater, traffic, environmental impacts, and emergency access
• Review of local preference guidelines and affordability terms
• Vote to approve revised scope of work by VBH

The Harwich Zoning Board of Appeals closed the public hearing for the Pine Oaks Village IV comprehensive permit application (242 rental units) and voted to continue deliberations to December 1, 2025. The board also approved an additional $10,440 (plus up to $5,600) for peer review by VHB, with the applicant covering the cost. No final decision was made on the permit.

• Closed public hearing for Case 2025-21 (Pine Oaks Village IV) (7-0)
• Continued deliberations to Dec. 1, 2025, 9:00 AM at Harwich Town Hall (7-0)
• Approved additional VHB peer review funding of $10,440 plus potential $5,600 (7-0)

Select Board

The Harwich Select Board will hold a public hearing on proposed ambulance billing fee increases and hear presentations on a residential tax exemption and transfer station fee restructuring. The board will also consider several license renewals, a special permit for a Chamber of Commerce event, and a contract for beach parking. The agenda includes an executive session for collective bargaining and real estate discussions.

• Public hearing on Ambulance Billing Fee increases
• Presentation on Residential Tax Exemption
• Transfer Station fee restructuring presentation
• Special permit for Harwich Chamber of Commerce one-day entertainment event on Dec 5, 2025
• License renewals for 2026: Common Victuallers (6), Auto (3), Innholders (1), Entertainment (2)

The Harwich Select Board approved several items, including increased ambulance billing rates and a $10/hour increase in private contractor plow rates. The board also created a new part-time truck driver position, approved multiple license renewals, and accepted a $1,000 gift from the Harwich Pickleball Association. No action was taken on entertainment license renewals, which were deferred for further discussion.

• Approved ambulance billing rate increases and mileage rate increase to $35, effective December 1, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved $10/hour increase in private contractor plow rates for 2026 (5-0)
• Created Personnel Bylaw position of Part Time Truck Driver at $35/hour (5-0)
• Approved 2026 Common Victuallers license renewals for 6 businesses (5-0)
• Approved 2026 Auto license renewals for 3 businesses (5-0)
• Approved 2026 Innholders license renewal for The Platinum Pebble (5-0)
• Approved special permit for Harwich Chamber of Commerce one-day entertainment event on December 5, 2025 (5-0)
• Accepted $1,000 gift from Harwich Pickleball Association for Recreation Department (5-0)

Bikeways Committee

The Harwich Bikeways Committee will review existing meeting minutes, discuss a rule requiring users to walk to the right on trails, and address trail conditions. The meeting is open to the public and accessible via GoTo meeting.

• Discussion of rule requiring users to walk to the right on trails
• Review of trail conditions

Town Administrator Screening Committee

The Harwich Town Administrator Search Committee will meet to enter executive session under state law to interview candidates for the Town Administrator position. The committee will not reconvene in public session after the closed meeting.

Community Center Facilities Committee

The Harwich Community Center Facilities Committee will convene to approve past meeting minutes, receive reports from the Council on Aging and Recreation departments, discuss budget and equipment updates, review new business items including fitness room updates and room rental policies, and hear director updates on programs and operations.

• Approve minutes from September 12, 2025 meeting
• Review budget and equipment updates including new scan monitors
• Discuss Fitness Room Updates
• Review Room Rental Use Policy
• Receive Program/Events and Building/Operation updates

The Harwich Community Center Facilities Committee met on November 14, 2025, and approved the September 12, 2025 minutes unanimously. The committee reviewed the draft 2027 Level Service Budget and discussed a potential Town Warrant article to repair basketball nets using leftover funds from a bleacher project. It also agreed to have Carolyn Carey research room rental fee policies based on actual town labor costs, following a Select Board presentation. No final decisions were made on the budget or rental fees.

• Approved September 12, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed draft 2027 Level Service Budget (no action)
• Agreed to research room rental fee policy based on labor costs (no formal vote)

Charter Commission

The Harwich Charter Commission will continue its work on the town charter, with discussion and a possible vote on recall provisions and Chapter 6, which covers elected officers and town agencies. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes, public comments, and other business that may come before the commission.

• Discussion and possible vote on charter recall provisions
• Discussion and possible vote on Chapter 6: Elected officers and town agencies
• Approval of minutes from November 6, 2025 meeting

The Harwich Charter Commission discussed and agreed on specific recall provisions for Chapter 8, including a 10% signature threshold, 60 days to collect signatures, and no listed reasons for recall. They also discussed elected officers but made no changes, deciding to continue the discussion next week. The meeting was procedural with no final votes on charter language.

• Agreed on recall provisions: 10% of qualified voters, 60 days to collect signatures, 14 days for Town Clerk certification, 64 days from certification to process (7-0 for minutes approval)
• Decided not to list reasons for recall in the charter
• Decided not to change the elected status of the Town Clerk
• Approved minutes of November 6, 2025 (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting (8-0)

Community Preservation Committee

The Harwich Community Preservation Committee will hold a public meeting to hear presentations on four Community Preservation Act funding requests for the 2025/2026 cycle, totaling $720,901.42. The committee will also review fall 2025 status reports, discuss grant agreements, and receive updates on social media and the website. An executive session is scheduled first to consider a land purchase.

• $650,000 request for Harwich Affordable Housing Trust Fund project
• $10,000 request for Lower Cape Housing Institute project
• $35,793.53 request for water quality equipment replacement
• $25,107.89 request for shellfish lab updates
• Executive session to discuss a land purchase

Cultural Council

The Harwich Cultural Council will discuss and approve its 2026 meeting schedule, including a grant reception in June and an August meeting tied to the MCC 2027 grant cycle. The council will also review current grant applications and finalize the 2026 initiatives, such as committee member outreach.

• Draft of 2026 committee meeting dates
• Grant review for current cycle
• Continuation and finalization of current grant cycle
• 2026 Initiatives including new committee member outreach
• Review of new email addresses

Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees

The Strategic Plan Committee will meet to conduct preparatory work on the Strategic Plan for the Brooks Free Library.

• Preparatory work on the Strategic Plan for Brooks Free Library

Local Planning Committee

The Harwich Local Planning Committee will review and approve its November 3 meeting minutes, then discuss and possibly vote on a draft letter to the Zoning Board of Appeals regarding a Comprehensive Permit Project Application for Pine Oaks Village 4. The meeting is open to the public and accessible via phone or online.

• Review and approve November 3, 2025 meeting minutes
• Discussion and possible vote on draft letter to Zoning Board of Appeals for Pine Oaks Village 4 Comprehensive Permit Project Application

The Local Planning Committee voted to approve a draft letter to the Zoning Board of Appeals regarding the Comprehensive Permit Project Application for Pine Oaks Village 4, with revisions. The letter will be sent by November 17, 2025, ahead of the ZBA's meeting and deliberation. The vote was unanimous except for one member.

• Approved draft letter to ZBA on Pine Oaks Village 4 (all yes except Bernadette no)
• Chair to sign letter on behalf of committee
• Joyce to send revised letter with copy to Christine Flynn

Finance Committee

The Harwich Finance Committee will discuss town finances, the 2025 budget process, and updates on the wastewater plan. Members will also review capital outlay plans and budget timelines. No specific decisions are listed on the agenda.

General

The Harwich Historic District and Historical Commission is holding a public hearing on four Notice of Intent applications, including two full demolitions of dwellings over 100 years old. The commission will also review its 2026 meeting schedule, discuss Town Charter sections, and consider the West Baptist Church, among other business.

• Full demolition of dwelling at 134 Bank Street (Map 23, Parcel P7-0), owner Elizabeth Duggan
• Removal of Wheelhouse at 702 Route 28 (Map 15, Parcel K1-8), owner JB Real Estate Holdings, LLC
• Full demolition of dwelling at 29 Snow Inn Road (Map 8, Parcel P4), owners Vincent P. Helfrich Jr. & Jeanne M. Helfrich
• Kitchen renovation and window replacement at 33 Queen Anne Road (Map 56, Parcel X3), owner 33 Queen Anne, LLC
• Discussion of West Harwich National Historic Register submission

The Harwich Historic District and Historical Commission voted to impose a four-month demolition delay on the 1872 dwelling at 134 Bank Street, owned by Elizabeth Duggan, to allow time to explore preservation alternatives. The commission also approved demolition requests for properties at 702 Route 28, 29 Snow Inn Road, and 33 Queen Anne Road, with no delays for those. Additionally, the board voted to draft a letter of support for a $667,000 CPC application for the West Baptist Church.

• Imposed 4-month demolition delay on 134 Bank Street dwelling (4-0-1, B. Doane abstained)
• Approved removal of Wheelhouse at 702 Route 28, no delay (5-0)
• Approved full demolition at 29 Snow Inn Road, no delay, with condition on exterior grills (4-1, P. Doane opposed)
• Approved kitchen renovation and window replacement at 33 Queen Anne Road, no delay (5-0)
• Approved minutes of July 30, 2025 as amended (5-0)
• Approved 2026 meeting schedule (5-0)
• Voted to draft letter of support for $667,000 CPC application for West Baptist Church (4-0-1, Lowney recused)

Capital Outlay Committee

The Harwich Capital Outlay Committee will meet to discuss and possibly vote on capital spending plans for multiple departments, including Golf, Harbormaster, Natural Resources, and Fire. The committee will also review next steps for the Capital Outlay Plan.

• Possible vote on FY2027–FY2031 capital plans for Golf, Harbormaster, Natural Resources, and Fire Departments

The Capital Outlay Committee held a discussion-only session, hearing presentations from the Golf, Natural Resources, Harbormaster, and Fire departments about their capital requests for FY27-FY31. No votes were taken on the capital plan; the committee will continue discussions and vote on December 10, 2025. The meeting adjourned with a 5-0 vote.

• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee and Select Board will hold a joint meeting. The Acting Town Administrator and Interim Finance Director will present a financial review for Fiscal Year 2025.

• Prior year financial review for Fiscal Year 2025

Town Administrator Screening Committee

The committee is meeting to elect officers and establish the framework for hiring a new town administrator. Members will determine interview questions and schedule candidate interviews.

• Election of vice chair and clerk
• Selection of candidate interview questions
• Scheduling of interview dates, times, and locations
• Proposed executive session to review applicants and conduct interviews

Select Board

The Town Administrator Search Committee is meeting to elect officers and establish the framework for hiring a new town administrator. The committee will determine interview questions and schedule candidate interviews.

• Election of vice chair and clerk
• Selection of interview questions
• Scheduling of candidate interviews
• Proposed executive session to consider or interview candidates

General

The Select Board will meet to discuss the 2026 Town Meeting budget timeline and review the Fiscal Year 2025 financial report. The board will also consider a building department fee restructuring and a special permit for a one-day event.

• Contract with Habeeb & Associates Architects for Brooks Academy Museum for $197,600.00
• Public hearing for Change of Classification for Cape Sea Grille at 31 Sea Street
• Special permit and one-day liquor license for an event at 204 Sisson Road on November 19, 2025
• Acceptance of a $5,000 gift for the Council on Aging
• Building Commissioner presentation on building department fee restructuring

The Select Board approved a $197,600 contract with Habeeb & Associates Architects for the Brooks Academy Museum project. They also approved a special permit for a one-day liquor license and entertainment event at 204 Sisson Road, and accepted resignations and a $5,000 gift for the Council on Aging. The board discussed but took no vote on building fee restructuring, the 204 building license agreements, and the Assistant Town Administrator recruitment.

• Approved $197,600 contract with Habeeb & Associates Architects for Brooks Academy Museum (5-0)
• Approved special permit for Joe Young IV/Big Sound Productions for entertainment and one-day liquor license at 204 Sisson Road (5-0)
• Approved change of classification for Blue Stripe, LLC d/b/a Cape Sea Grille (5-0)
• Accepted $5,000 gift for Council on Aging from Friends of the Harwich Council on Aging (5-0)
• Accepted resignation of Amy Jalbert from Voter Information Committee (5-0)
• Accepted resignation of Robert Thompson from Cemetery Commission effective Jan 1, 2026 (5-0)
• Approved minutes of Nov 3, 2025 meeting (5-0)
• Adjourned at 10:00 p.m. (5-0)

Harwich Affordable Housing Trust

The Harwich Affordable Housing Trust is meeting to discuss and potentially vote on several items, including a discussion with Laura Shaufelt from Mass Housing Partnership about RFPs for properties on Oak Street, O Depot Street, and O Depot Road (parcels J1, J2, J3). The board will also review minutes, receive updates on legal counsel, and discuss properties at 265 Sisson Road and 456 Queen Anne Road, with votes possible on legal counsel and the Queen Anne Road item.

• Discussion with Mass Housing Partnership on RFPs for Oak Street, O Depot Street, O Depot Road (parcels J1, J2, J3)
• Potential vote on legal counsel question
• Potential vote on 456 Queen Anne Road updates
• Updates on 265 Sisson Road
• Discussion on ADUs, inclusionary zoning, and trust documents

The Harwich Affordable Housing Trust voted unanimously to ask KP Law to examine the lease for 265 Sisson Road, following concerns about the town subsidizing the Harwich Junior Theater. The Trust also approved the October 20 minutes (3-0, with two abstentions) and discussed several other items, including legal counsel costs and a possible special meeting on November 24. No other formal votes were taken.

• Approved motion to have KP Law examine the 265 Sisson Road lease (5-0)
• Approved minutes of 10/20/25 (3-0, with two abstentions)

Board of Water/Wastewater Commissioners

The Board of Water & Wastewater Commissioners will conduct a public hearing regarding revised sewer regulations. The board is also scheduled to consider the approval of FY26 water liens.

• Public hearing on Revised Sewer Regulations
• Approval of FY26 Water Liens

The Board of Water/Wastewater Commissioners held a public hearing on revised Sewer Regulations, with no public attendees. After receiving Chatham's approval and resolving resident questions, the board voted 3-0 to approve the revisions, which include a new grinder pump policy and updated language on what can enter the sewer system. The regulations will be certified by the Town Clerk.

• Approved revised Sewer Regulations (3-0)
• Opened public hearing for revised Sewer Regulations (3-0)
• Closed public hearing for revised Sewer Regulations (3-0)

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will meet to hold a discussion with the Harwich Select Board. The body will also continue discussions regarding Chapter 6 Elected Town Officers and Town Agencies.

• Discussion with Harwich Select Board
• Discussion on Chapter 6 Elected Town Officers and Town Agencies
• Review of open issues list
• Possible election for open Commission seat

The Harwich Charter Commission held a discussion with the Select Board regarding potential Charter changes and future feedback. The Commission also voted to appoint Brendan Lowney to fill an open seat on the board.

• Approved October 30, 2025 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Appointed Brendan Lowney to open Commission seat (8-0 by acclamation)
• Adjourned meeting (8-0)

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a joint meeting with the Charter Commission. The body will discuss the town charter.

• Discussion on the Charter

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings on a proposed six-unit condominium project and a new steel industrial building. The board will also consider two land division plans and receive updates on town planning initiatives.

• Special Permit for 6 two-bedroom townhouses at 64 Smith Street, including one workforce housing unit
• Special Permit for an 8,877 square foot steel building and 25 parking spaces at 237 Queen Anne Road
• Approval Not Required (ANR) plan to move property lines between 25 and 30 Caldwell Lane
• Court Ordered Remand for a land division plan at Hall's Path
• Cape Cod Commission DRI Referral regarding PB2025-32 Wychmere Redevelopment

Board of Water/Wastewater Commissioners

The Board of Water & Wastewater Commissioners will hold a joint meeting with the Capital Outlay Committee. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the Capital Plan.

• Joint meeting with Capital Outlay Committee regarding the Capital Plan

The Board of Water/Wastewater Commissioners met jointly with the Capital Outlay Committee, but a quorum was not present, so the meeting was not called to order. No decisions were made or actions taken.

Capital Outlay Committee

The Capital Outlay Committee will discuss and potentially vote on departmental capital plans for fiscal years 2027 through 2031. The meeting includes reviews of the Select Board Budget Statement for FY2027 and the committee's role under the Town Charter.

• Vote on FY2027-FY2031 capital plans for Water, Wastewater, and Police Departments
• Discussion of Select Board Budget Statement for Fiscal Year 2027
• Review of Capital Outlay Committee role per section 9 of the Charter
• Discussion on next steps for the Capital Outlay Plan
• Discussion on potential site visits

The Capital Outlay Committee reviewed the FY27-FY31 capital plans for the Water/Wastewater and Police departments. The Police Department reduced its FY27 cruiser request from three to two vehicles, lowering the cost from $215k to $143k. The committee also discussed the Capital Outlay Committee's role in the Charter, potential site visits, and changed the December meeting date to December 2nd. No formal votes were taken on the capital plans themselves.

• Approved October 22, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Police Department reduced FY27 cruiser request from 3 to 2, cost from $215k to $143k
• Changed December 3rd meeting date to December 2nd
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review the September sales report and discuss tax exemptions and abatements. The meeting includes an executive session to discuss specific exemptions and abatements.

• Review of September Sales Report
• Executive session regarding Exemptions and Abatements

The Board of Assessors met and approved the minutes from October 7, 2025, while withholding executive session minutes. They also discussed contacting the Department of Revenue about PILOT agreements and held a brief executive session under state law. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved release of Oct. 7, 2025 minutes, excluding executive minutes (unanimous)
• Held executive session under M.G.L. C. 30A § 21(a)(7) (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 2:57 p.m. (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Harwich Conservation Commission will hold a public meeting on November 5, 2025, to discuss and vote on several conservation-related applications. Items include a new dwelling, a rescission of a Certificate of Compliance, and multiple requests for determinations of applicability, amended orders, and notices of intent. The meeting is open to the public in person, via cable TV, or remotely.

• New dwelling at 18 Captain Todd Way (Mark and Brianne Allen)
• Rescind Certificate of Compliance for 4 Evergreen Way, LLC, issued Sept 17, 2025
• Notice of Intent: Inground pool at 25 Monomoy Road (Finocchiaro)
• Notice of Intent: Stone revetment repair at 2257 Route 28 (Green)
• Certificate of Compliance: New dwelling at 4 Eastern Avenue (Reis)

The Harwich Conservation Commission approved a change in plan for a dwelling, rescinded and reissued a certificate of compliance, approved several requests for determination of applicability and notices of intent, and issued certificates of compliance. All votes were 4-0.

• Approved change in plan for new dwelling at 18 Captain Todd Way (4-0)
• Rescinded Certificate of Compliance for 4 Evergreen Way (4-0)
• Issued partial Certificate of Compliance for SE32-793 (4-0)
• Approved RDA for septic system at 27 Saquatucket Bluffs Road with mitigation (4-0)
• Approved RDA for addition at 170 Gorham Road with conditions (4-0)
• Approved RDA for hazard tree removal at 22 Frances Road (4-0)
• Approved amended order of conditions at 116 Sisson Road (4-0)
• Approved Notice of Intent for pool at 25 Monomoy Road (4-0)

Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees

The Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees will meet to discuss the FY27 budget and the FY27-31 Capital Outlay Plan. The board may vote on a recruitment plan for the next library director and the acceptance of monetary donations.

• Recruitment plan and process for next Library Director
• FY27 Budget
• FY27-31 Capital Outlay Plan
• Vote to accept monetary donations
• Executive session regarding Harwich Employees Association Case No. MUP=24=10888

The Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees met on November 5, 2025, and approved the October 1 meeting minutes. The board discussed the upcoming library director recruitment process, the FY27 budget and capital plan, and a strategic planning public input session. No donations were approved, and the board moved into executive session without returning to public session.

• Approved regular session minutes for 10/1 (6-0-0)
• Vote to approve donations: none
• Moved into executive session and not return to public session (6-0-0)

Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees

The Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees Personnel Committee is meeting to enter executive session to discuss strategy related to collective bargaining or litigation involving the Harwich Employees Association and a case before the Mass. Dept. of Labor Relations, as well as negotiations with the Deputy Library Director. No other business is listed on the agenda.

• Executive session under MGL c.30A §21(a)(3) for collective bargaining/litigation strategy (HEA, Case No. MUP-24-10888)
• Executive session under MGL c.30A §21(a)(2) for negotiations with nonunion personnel (Deputy Library Director)

Local Planning Committee

The Harwich Local Planning Committee will review minutes, confirm the next meeting, and discuss community outreach. The main business is discussion and possible votes on sending written suggested conditions to the Zoning Board of Appeals regarding the Comprehensive Permit application for Pine Oaks Village 4.

• Review and approve meeting minutes from September 2, 2025
• Discussion and possible vote on suggested conditions for Pine Oaks Village 4 Comprehensive Permit
• Discussion and possible revision of draft letter to Zoning Board of Appeals
• Update on community outreach to Acting Town Administrator, Town Committees, and Select Board
• Update on incorporation of feedback from Mike Lach (Harwich Conservation Trust) and Ginny Hewitt (Brooks Free Library)

Select Board

The Harwich Select Board will meet on November 3, 2025, to discuss and vote on several contracts, including a $1,744,500 irrigation upgrade at Cranberry Valley Golf Course, and review responses to a legal services request for proposal. The board will also consider a historic preservation restriction at 97 Route 28 and receive updates on the 2026 Annual Town Meeting timeline.

• Vote to approve $1,744,500 irrigation upgrade contract with National Lawn Sprinklers, Inc. for Cranberry Valley Golf Course
• Review and approval of a Historic Preservation Restriction at 97 Route 28 between J&S Cape Houses, LLC and the Town of Harwich
• Vote to approve a license agreement with Bob Miller for golf instruction services
• Discussion on responses from the Legal Services Request for Proposal
• Update on the Town Meeting and Budget Timeline for 2026

The Select Board approved a $1,744,500 contract with National Lawn Sprinklers, Inc. for an irrigation upgrade at Cranberry Valley Golf Course, despite public comments urging environmental reconsideration. The board also approved a historic preservation restriction for the Judah Eldredge Chase House at 97 Route 28, a license agreement with Miller Golf Coaching, and amended minutes from October 27. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included executive session and procedural updates.

• Approved $1,744,500 irrigation upgrade contract with National Lawn Sprinklers, Inc. (5-0)
• Approved Historic Preservation Restriction at 97 Route 28 (4-0, Howell recused)
• Approved license agreement with Bob Miller, Miller Golf Coaching (5-0)
• Approved October 27, 2025 meeting minutes as amended (5-0)
• Entered executive session to discuss collective bargaining, negotiations, and real property (4-0)

Cemetery Commission

The Harwich Cemetery Commission is meeting to discuss routine business including correspondence, old and new business items. They will review year-to-date financial reports for the Cemetery Revolving Account, Trust, and Budget, as well as updates on Community Preservation Committee articles. The commission will also consider new deed sales, approve bills, and discuss the upcoming Veterans Day ceremony at Evergreen Cemetery.

• Review of year-to-date Cemetery Revolving Account, Trust, and Budget
• Deed sales: Sheri DiVittorio ($800, Evergreen), Thomas B. & Kathryn T. McKean ($550, Island Pond), Robert C. & Annette M. Rufo ($3,200, Mt Pleasant)
• Bills include Hamco Flagpoles & Flags $908.00, Amazon $43.66, and various water bills
• Veterans Day Ceremony at Evergreen Cemetery, including portable restrooms and flags
• Discussion of new signs for Evergreen Cemetery with map and invoice

Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees

This meeting of the Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees Personnel Committee was cancelled before it took place. The agenda had called for an executive session to discuss collective bargaining or litigation strategy regarding the Harwich Employees Association and a Mass. Dept. of Labor Relations case.

• Meeting cancelled on Oct. 29, 2025
• Executive session planned under MGL c.30A section 21(a)(3)
• Discussion of Harwich Employees Association (HEA) and Mass. Dept. of Labor Relations Case No. MUP-24-10888

Harwich Energy and Climate Action Committee

The Harwich Energy and Climate Action Committee is meeting to discuss routine business, including approving September minutes, an update on Climate Leader progress, and a discussion about attracting new members. The committee will also review a letter from the charter commission and receive a CLC update. No major decisions or public hearings are on the agenda.

• Approve September meeting minutes
• Update on Climate Leader progress
• Discussion about attracting new members
• Review charter commission letter
• CLC update

Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees

The Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees Personnel Committee will meet to discuss the recruitment process for the next Library Director. The committee may vote on recommendations to present to the full Board of Trustees.

• Executive session regarding Harwich Employees Association (HEA) Case No. MUP-24-10888
• Discussion and possible votes on recruitment process for the next Library Director

Harwich Housing Committee

The Harwich Housing Committee will meet to introduce a new member, hear from housing advocates and the Affordable Housing Trust, and discuss a joint meeting with the Affordable Housing Trust. The committee will also review topics including zoning, SHI List, ADUs, funding sources, and other projects.

Charter Commission

The Harwich Charter Commission will meet to discuss possible interviews with candidates for an open seat, review chapters of the town charter, and vote on requests for input from town departments and the election of a commission clerk. The meeting is procedural with no specific decisions listed in the agenda.

• Possible interviews with candidates for open seat
• Request for input from town departments discussion and possible vote
• Election for commission clerk discussion and possible vote

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Harwich Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on five special-permit applications to alter or replace non-conforming single-family dwellings in RH-1, R-M, RM, and RL zoning districts. The board will also acknowledge and discuss four recent Open Meeting Law complaints and consider a 2026 hearing schedule.

• Case 2025-48: 245 Lower County Road deck addition and replacement of second dwelling
• Case 2025-49: 15 Park Street addition with side-entry mudroom and basement stairway
• Case 2025-50: 74 Uncle Venies Road second-floor dormers within existing footprint
• Case 2025-51: 5 Trinity Cove renovation and addition exceeding 30% site coverage
• Case 2025-52: 16 School House Road renovation, garage replacement, and deck modifications exceeding 35% site coverage

The Harwich Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) held public hearings and unanimously granted five special permits for renovations and additions to pre-existing non-conforming single-family dwellings. The board also approved the 2026 hearing schedule, accepted draft responses to four Open Meeting Law complaints, and voted to send a memo to the Select Board regarding email addresses for board members.

• Granted special permit for deck addition and accessory dwelling at 245 Lower County Road (5-0)
• Granted special permit for addition at 15 Park Street (5-0)
• Granted special permit for dormers at 74 Uncle Venies Road (5-0)
• Granted special permit for renovation and addition at 5 Trinity Cove (5-0)
• Granted special permit for renovation and garage replacement at 16 School House Road (5-0)
• Approved 2026 hearing schedule, eliminating December 30th meeting (5-0)
• Approved draft responses to four Open Meeting Law complaints (5-0)
• Approved memo to Select Board on board member email addresses (5-0)

Council On Aging Board of Directors

The Council on Aging Board of Directors will meet to discuss current and anticipated operations. The board will also review volunteer recruitment and a needs assessment.

• Director's report on operations
• Volunteer needs, recruitment, and training
• Needs Assessment

Recreation and Youth Committee

The Harwich Recreation and Youth Commission will hold a meeting on October 28, 2025, at the Harwich Channel Studio. The agenda includes a discussion and vote on a Community Preservation Committee article regarding a diagnostic assessment of Hinkley’s Pond, alongside updates on the Potter Field Dugout Project, meeting minutes, and various departmental and committee reports.

• Discussion and vote on CPC Article - Diagnostic Assessment of Hinkley’s Pond led by Conservation Administrator Amy Usowski
• Update on Potter Field Dugout Project
• Review of meeting minutes from August 26, 2025, and September 30, 2025
• Director Report, Property Maintenance Report, and Budget Report (Fund 1540)

Planning Board

The Harwich Planning Board will hold a continued public hearing on two special permit applications. One seeks approval for a 28-unit multifamily structure at 606 Route 28, and the other requests a special permit for an 8,877 sq ft industrial building at 237 Queen Anne Road. The board will also receive updates on local comprehensive, open space, and hazard mitigation plans.

• Multifamily Special Permit for 28-unit structure at 606 Route 28 (PB2025-11)
• Special Permit for 8,877 sq ft industrial building at 237 Queen Anne Road (PB2025-29)
• Local Comprehensive Plan Update
• Open Space & Recreation Plan Update
• Hazard Mitigation Plan Update

Select Board

The Select Board will vote on several contracts and special permits, including road salt procurement and a festival permit. The board will also discuss the 2026 Annual Town Meeting budget timeline and the recruitment of an Assistant Town Administrator.

• Contract with National Lawn Sprinklers, Inc. for irrigation upgrade at Cranberry Valley Golf Course for $1,744,500.00
• Contract with Eastern Minerals, Inc. for road salt at $73.00 per ton, not to exceed $146,000.00
• Special permit for Harwich Cranberry Festival at 100 Oak Street for entertainment, craft fair, and liquor license
• Scheduling of enforcement dates for The Port Restaurant’s liquor license suspension
• Acceptance of gifts for the Community Center from Harwich Cranberry Festival ($2,000.00) and Wychmere Harbor Club ($250.00)

The Select Board approved a 3-day liquor license suspension for The Port Restaurant on May 19, June 9, and September 24, 2026, by a 3-2 vote. The board also approved a special permit for the Harwich Cranberry Festival's 50th anniversary event, a one-year lease extension for Jakes at Cranberry Valley, and established the Assistant Town Administrator position as an executive contract with a salary range of $145,000-$165,000.

• Approved Port Restaurant liquor license suspension for May 19, June 9, Sept 24, 2026 (3-2)
• Approved Harwich Cranberry Festival special permit for Sept 19-20, 2026 event at 100 Oak St (5-0)
• Approved lease renewal for Jakes at Cranberry Valley for Jan 1-Dec 31, 2026 (5-0)
• Approved Assistant Town Administrator as executive contract, salary $145K-$165K (5-0)
• Approved road salt contract with Eastern Minerals, $73/ton, not to exceed $146,000 (5-0)
• Approved committee appointments for Recreation and Youth Commission and Treasure Chest Committee (5-0)
• Accepted $2,000 gift from Harwich Cranberry Festival and $250 from Wychmere Harbor Club for Community Center (5-0)
• Approved release of executive session minutes from June 26, 2023 with redactions

Charter Commission

The Harwich Charter Commission will meet to continue discussing Chapter 3 with input from the Collins Group, review updates on open member candidates, and consider the Select Board’s response. The meeting is procedural but includes updates on commission business and public comments.

• Discussion of Chapter 3 Select Board with Collins Group comments
• Update on candidates for open commission member
• Update on Select Board response

Select Board

The Harwich Select Board will meet to review and approve the results of a $9,490,000 municipal bond sale. The board is expected to vote on awarding the bonds to Fidelity Capital Markets, the winning bidder from October 16, 2025, and approve related terms as recommended by bond counsel.

• Vote to award $9,490,000 in bonds to Fidelity Capital Markets
• Approval of bond terms recommended by Troutman Pepper Locke LLP

The Select Board unanimously approved the sale of $9,490,000 in General Obligation Municipal Purpose Loan of 2025 Bonds to Fidelity Capital Markets at a price of $10,288,601.99, with a true interest cost of 3.029%. The borrowing funds sewer projects, two ambulances, a pumper/engine, and Cranberry Valley Golf irrigation. The board also ratified related official statements and authorized the Town Treasurer to establish tax compliance procedures.

• Approved $9,490,000 bond sale to Fidelity Capital Markets (4-0)
• Ratified Notice of Sale and Official Statement dated October 9 and 16, 2025
• Authorized Town Treasurer to establish post-issuance tax compliance procedures
• Approved adjournment at 9:21 a.m. (4-0)

Select Board

The Select Board Interview Committee is meeting to interview two candidates for town committee positions. The session includes scheduled interviews and a discussion regarding appointment procedures.

• Interview of Arthur Donowski for Recreation and Youth Commission
• Interview of Cindy Beaulieu for Treasure Chest Committee

Capital Outlay Committee

The committee will discuss its role as defined in section 9 of the Charter. The Acting Town Administrator will present a draft Five-Year Capital Outlay Plan for discussion and decision on next steps.

• Draft Five-Year Capital Outlay Plan presentation
• Discussion of committee role per section 9 of the Charter

The Capital Outlay Committee approved the September 17, 2025 meeting minutes as amended (5-0). The committee received a presentation from Interim Town Administrator Tony Schiavi on the draft Five-Year Capital Outlay Plan, discussing funding sources, potential fund recapture, and scheduling for department presentations. No formal decisions were made on the plan itself.

• Approved September 17, 2025 meeting minutes as amended (5-0)
• Postponed discussion of COC role per Charter section 9 to next meeting
• Set department presentation meetings for Nov 5, 12, 19 and Dec 3, 10, 17

Board of Health

The Board of Health will vote on variance requests for septic system design flows at 606 Route 28 and 715 Main Street. The board is also considering changes to its fee schedule and a sewer extension hearing request for 2 Sherwood Road.

• Variance request for 606 Route 28 regarding septic system design flow greater than 2,000 gallons per day
• Variance request for 715 Main Street regarding Title 5 restaurant sewage design flow criteria
• Proposed fee schedule changes
• Hearing request for Phase 2 sewer extension at 2 Sherwood Road
• New license applications for a body work studio, mobile beverage bar, septage hauler, septage installer, and utility installer

The Board of Health approved a septic system with a design flow greater than 2,000 gallons per day at 606 Route 28, subject to eight conditions including a 60-bedroom cap, nitrogen effluent limit, and operation/maintenance agreements. The board also approved a Title 5 variance for a deli addition at 715 Main Street, a fee schedule update, and a one-year sewer connection extension for 2 Sherwood Road. All votes were 3-0.

• Approved septic system >2,000 gpd at 606 Route 28 with 8 conditions (3-0)
• Approved Title 5 variance for restaurant at 715 Main Street (3-0)
• Approved proposed fee schedule changes (3-0)
• Approved one-year sewer extension at 2 Sherwood Road with quarterly updates (3-0)
• Approved new licenses for body work, mobile food truck, septage hauler, septage installer, and utility installer (3-0)

Board of Water/Wastewater Commissioners

The Harwich Board of Water/Wastewater Commissioners will vote on two contracts: one with Ti-Sales for water meters and one with Ferguson for water works supplies. They will also discuss abatements for Q1 water usage, a sewer regulation update, tank painting, and the Route 28 water main replacement project.

• Vote to approve and sign Ti-Sales contract for water meters
• Vote to approve and sign Ferguson contract for water works supplies
• FY 2026 Q1 Water Department Usage abatements
• Sewer Regs: Grinder Pump Information added, plan public hearing
• Route 28 Water Main Replacement Project update

The Board approved contracts for water meters (Ti-Sales) and waterworks supplies (Ferguson Waterworks), both unanimously. It also approved sending comments to the Charter Commission regarding authority over sewer operations and superintendent appointment, and requested legal review of Chapter 83 authority. Several routine items were approved, including abatements and meeting minutes.

• Approved FY 2026 Q1 water usage abatements of $2,126.84 (5-0)
• Approved FY 2026 Q1 internal water adjustments of $4,425.63 (5-0)
• Approved FY 2026 Q1 internal wastewater adjustments of $6.05 (5-0)
• Approved sending charter comments to Charter Commission (5-0)
• Approved request for legal services on Chapter 83 authority (5-0)
• Approved Ti-Sales contract for water meters (5-0)
• Approved Ferguson Waterworks contract for waterworks supplies (5-0)
• Approved minutes of September 9, 2025 (5-0)

Bikeways Committee

The Bikeways Committee will meet to discuss a rule requiring users to walk to the right. The body will also review trail conditions and maps.

• Discussion of rule requiring users to walk to the right
• Review of trail conditions
• Review of maps

Golf Committee

The Harwich Golf Committee is meeting to review course maintenance and projects with the Golf Superintendent, begin initial rate and fee discussions ahead of an October public hearing, and review the tentative 2026 tournament schedule. The committee will also elect officers and approve prior meeting minutes.

• Initial rate and fee discussion in preparation for October public hearing
• Review of course maintenance and projects with Golf Superintendent
• Review of tentative 2026 Tournament Schedule
• Election of Golf Committee Officers
• Approval of June meeting minutes

Harwich Affordable Housing Trust

The Board of Trustees will discuss a new application from the Harwich Fire Association and an RFP for 0 Depot Road. The body will also receive updates on several property sites and zoning matters.

• Application from Harwich Fire Association
• RFP for 0 Depot Road
• Updates on 265 Sisson Road and 456 Queen Anne Road
• Updates on RFPs for 0 Oak Street and 0 Depot Street
• Discussion on Inclusionary and Incentive Zoning

The Harwich Affordable Housing Trust approved a $10,000 grant to the Harwich Fire Association for lottery costs related to the Old Bank Street Firehouse project, which is 99% complete. The board also approved the minutes from September 8, 2025, and discussed several ongoing items, including legal counsel options, RFPs for town-owned parcels, and updates on various properties. No other formal votes were taken.

• Approved $10,000 grant to Harwich Fire Association for lottery costs (3-0)
• Approved minutes from September 8, 2025 (3-0)

Caleb Chase Trustees

The Caleb Chase Trustees will meet to confirm financial disbursements and review portfolio holdings. The board will also discuss Open Meeting provisions with the Town Clerk and prepare the Fiscal 2025 Annual Report.

• Vote to confirm action disbursements as of 6/25/2025
• Review of approved actions and disbursements from 1/1/2022 through 6/25/25
• Update on Council of Aging grant applicants for first quarter FY’26
• Review and distribution of updated Investment Policy
• Discussion of proposed portfolio modifications

The Caleb Chase Trustees adopted minutes from the previous meeting, voted to delay the second quarterly payment to the Town until mid-November, and approved a portfolio rebalancing involving the sale of specific equity holdings and the purchase of T-bills. They also reviewed electronic filing arrangements with Town Clerk Emily Mitchell and set their next meeting for December 29, 2025.

• Adopted minutes of the June 25, 2025 meeting
• Voted to delay forwarding the next $4,000 quarterly payment to the Town until mid-November 2025
• Approved portfolio adjustment to sell $15,000 each from SDY and IWB
• Approved offsetting purchase of $45,000 in two T-bill positions ($25,000 expiring mid-January 2026 at 3.9% and $20,000 expiring April 9, 2026 at 3.85%)

Real Estate and Open Space Committee

The Harwich Real Estate and Open Space Committee is meeting on October 17, 2025, to discuss and potentially vote on parcel protections and a Community Preservation Committee application. The committee will also consider approving minutes from August 15, 2025.

• Discussion and possible vote on parcels held by the Select Board for reassignment to the Water Department or Conservation Commission
• Discussion and possible vote regarding a Community Preservation Committee application submitted by the Harwich Conservation Trust
• Approval of minutes from August 15, 2025

The committee voted unanimously to support a letter for Community Preservation Act (CPA) funding to help the Harwich Conservation Trust purchase a 17.75-acre parcel on Robins Pond for $450,000, with a conservation restriction to be transferred to the Conservation Commission. The committee delayed voting on transferring multiple town-owned parcels to the Conservation Commission or Water Department pending clarification on one parcel's funding, addition of a Sand Pond parcel, and removal of two maps from the presentation.

• Approved letter of support for CPA funding for Robins Pond Woodlands acquisition (unanimous)
• Delayed vote on Select Board parcel transfers pending clarifications

Cultural Council

The Harwich Cultural Council is meeting to review the current grant cycle and prepare for upcoming grant reviews. The agenda also includes routine items such as approval of minutes, a treasurer's report, and discussions on leadership for future years.

• Review of current grant cycle
• Preparation for review of grants
• Leadership needed for FY26+
• Approval of September 11, 2025 minutes
• Treasurer's report

Charter Commission

The Harwich Charter Commission is meeting to discuss Chapter 6 on elected positions and will hold a discussion with the Finance Committee. The agenda includes approval of minutes from October 2 and October 9, 2025, continuing business, public comments, and other topics that may come before the commission.

• Discussion with Finance Committee
• Continuing discussion of Chapter 6: Elected Positions
• Approval of minutes from October 2 and October 9, 2025 meetings

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is meeting to hold a discussion regarding the Town Charter. No other specific actions or votes are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion on Town Charter

Community Preservation Committee

The Harwich Community Preservation Committee will hold an executive session to discuss a land purchase, then reconvene in open session to review 11 submitted funding applications for the 2025-2026 cycle. The committee will also consider whether additional meeting dates are needed for application presentations, review fall 2025 status reports, and discuss grant agreements and recognition sign options.

• Executive session on a land purchase (MGL c. 30A §21(a)(6))
• Discussion of 11 submitted funding applications for 2025-2026
• Review of Fall 2025 Update Status Reports
• Discussion of grant agreements
• Discussion of CPC recognition sign options

Council On Aging Board of Directors

The Council on Aging Board of Directors will meet to discuss current and anticipated operations. The board will also review volunteer recruitment and a needs assessment.

• Approval of August 20, 2025 meeting minutes
• Director's report on operations
• Discussion on volunteer needs, recruitment, and training
• Review of Needs Assessment

Historic District & Historical Commission

The Harwich Historic District & Historical Commission will hold public hearings on eight demolition and alteration notices for century-old properties, including partial and full demolitions and additions. The meeting will also discuss preservation topics like Revolutionary War House plaques and a potential National Historic Register submission for West Harwich.

• HH2025-20: Partial demolition at 25 Pleasant Lake Ave for new addition
• HH2025-21: Temporary sign approval at 728 Main St for youth programs
• HH2025-25: Full garage demolition at 13 Silver St for larger addition
• HH2025-26: Full demolition of dwelling at 26 Woodland Rd
• HH2025-30: Exterior renovations at 702 Route 28 (cedar shingles, roof, chimney removal)

The Harwich Historic District and Historical Commission approved seven applications, including partial demolitions and a temporary sign, and continued one demolition case to November 12. All votes were unanimous (4-0). The commission also ruled it had no jurisdiction over the Carriage House at 24 Pilgrim Road.

• Approved partial demolition at 25 Pleasant Lake Avenue (4-0)
• Approved temporary sign at 728 Main Street (4-0)
• Approved partial demolition at 13 Silver Street (4-0)
• Approved full demolition at 26 Woodland Road (4-0)
• Approved partial demolition at 16 School House Road (4-0)
• Continued demolition case at 134 Bank Street to November 12 (4-0)
• Approved partial demolition at 21 South Street (4-0)
• Approved partial demolition at 702 Route 28 (4-0)

Conservation Commission

The Harwich Conservation Commission meets to decide on or discuss several land-use projects, including continued review of the Town’s Phase 3A sewer extension, septic system upgrades, and repairs to coastal stone revetment. The Commission will also hear testimony on in-ground pool construction near coastal storm flowage areas and possible issuance of a Certificate of Compliance for multiple residential projects.

• Town of Harwich Phase 3A Sewer Extension Project (pumping station, sanitary sewer, stormwater management) — continued from Oct 1, 2025
• Louis and Dawn Finocchiaro: in-ground pool with retaining wall, cabana, and rinse station near coastal storm flowage at 25 Monomoy Road
• Katherine S. Green: repair eroded stone revetment and rebuild deck in-kind along Pleasant Bay shoreline
• Marion Sokolowski: septic system upgrade and single-family dwelling with driveway at 364 Lower County Road
• Sarah A. Turano-Flores: raze and replace dwelling at 21 Deacons Folly Road

The Harwich Conservation Commission approved the Order of Conditions for the Town's Phase 3A Sewer Extension Project, closing the public hearing. The commission also granted Certificates of Compliance for two properties, approved a letter of support for a Hinckley Pond study, and continued two other cases to the November 5 meeting.

• Approved Order of Conditions for Town of Harwich Phase 3A Sewer Extension Project (4-0-1, Cyr abstained)
• Granted two Certificates of Compliance for 364 Lower County Road with enforcement order to clear vegetative debris within 30 days (5-0)
• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 23 Walkerwoods Drive (5-0)
• Approved CPC Letter of Support for Hinckley Pond study (5-0)
• Continued 25 Monomoy Road pool project to November 5, 2025 (5-0)
• Continued 2257 Route 28 revetment repair to November 5, 2025 (5-0)

Waterways Committee

The Waterways Committee will discuss proposed updates to boat-cleaning rules at Long Pond public access ramps and review dock reconstruction plans for 6 Brora Road and 31 Mill Road. The meeting will also approve minutes from the September 17 meeting.

• Proposed language to prohibit boat washing, flushing, or rinsing after saltwater use at Long Pond ramps
• Follow-up on public comment period for boat-cleaning rule updates
• Dock reconstruction review for 6 Brora Road and 31 Mill Road

The Harwich Waterways Committee approved the dock reconstruction plans for 31 Mill Road (project #SC217, revised 10/07/25) by a 5-0 vote. The committee also voted 5-0 to continue discussion on proposed regulations prohibiting boat washing at Long Pond public access ramps until the next meeting, pending input from John Harker. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved dock reconstruction plans for 31 Mill Road (5-0)
• Continued discussion on boat washing regulations at Long Pond until next meeting (5-0)
• Approved revised minutes of September 17, 2025 (5-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals is holding a continued public hearing regarding a Comprehensive Permit application for a large rental development. The board will hear a presentation and discuss a waiver request before voting on whether to continue the hearing.

• Case No. 2025-21: Application by Queen Anne Acres LLC and Mid Cape Church Homes, Inc. for 5 corridor buildings and 5 townhouse buildings (242 rental units)
• Project locations include parcels at 0 Queen Anne Rd, 55 Queen Anne Rd, 57 Queen Anne Rd, 99 Queen Anne Rd, 0 Annasis Rd, 0 Main St, and 324 Main St
• Review of Waiver Request by Pine Oaks Village IV

The Harwich Zoning Board of Appeals continued the public hearing for the proposed 242-unit Pine Oaks Village IV comprehensive permit (Case No. 2025-21) to November 17, 2025, with a unanimous 7-0 vote. Board members reviewed and discussed conditions with the applicant, but no final decision was made. The hearing remains open for further public comment and additional conditions.

• Continued Case No. 2025-21 to November 17, 2025 at 6:30 PM (7-0)
• Adjusted agenda to include discussion of conditions (7-0)

Select Board

The Harwich Select Board will meet on October 14, 2025, to discuss and vote on several items, including a hawkers and peddlers license for Pilgrim Lodge, fee changes for dog and kennel licenses, and a Memorandum of Understanding with the South Shore Community Action Council. The meeting will also address an Open Meeting Law complaint and review the resignation of a committee member.

• Approve hawkers & peddlers license for Pilgrim Lodge A.F & A.M. at 706 Main Street to sell Christmas trees at 9 Sisson Road
• Vote to approve 2026 dog and kennel license fees
• Vote to authorize Chair to sign Memorandum of Understanding with South Shore Community Action Council (SSCAC)
• Acknowledge receipt of Open Meeting Law complaint from Michael MacAskill, dated September 29, 2025
• Approve resignation of Jacqueline Pentz Greene from Harwich Energy and Climate Action Committee

The Select Board approved the response to an Open Meeting Law complaint, adopted a new board and committee email policy effective immediately, and approved several licenses and fees. They also discussed but did not vote on ambulance fee increases and the South Harwich Meetinghouse insurance coverage, agreeing to bring back a clean agreement.

• Approved Open Meeting Law complaint response, authorizing Town Counsel to send (5-0)
• Approved board and committee email policy effective Oct 14, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved Hawkers & Peddlers license for Pilgrim Lodge to sell Christmas trees (5-0)
• Approved 2026 ABCC Seasonal Population Form (5-0)
• Approved 2026 dog and kennel license fees (5-0)
• Approved resignation of Jacqueline Pentz Greene from Energy and Climate Action Committee (5-0)
• Approved minutes from Sept 29 and Oct 6, 2025 (5-0)
• Authorized Chair to sign MOU with South Shore Community Action Council (5-0)

Planning Board

The Harwich Planning Board will hold a public hearing to review four land-use applications: two Approval Not Required (ANR) plans for St. Peter’s Lutheran Church and a private residence, a waiver request from Eversource Energy for substation upgrades, and a waiver request from CEZ&V LLC to replace a single-family home. The board will also receive updates on the Local Comprehensive Plan and Hazard Mitigation Plan.

• ANR Plan for St. Peter’s Lutheran Church at 310 Route 137, Residential Rural Estate (RR) Zoning District
• ANR Plan for 61 North Westgate Road property, Residential Rural Estate and DEP’s Zone II Drinking Water Protection District
• Waiver request from Eversource Energy for 3 new coupling voltage transformers at 270 Lothrop Avenue substation
• Waiver request from CEZ&V LLC to raze and replace 5-bedroom home with 4-bedroom home at 297 Route 28
• Local Comprehensive Plan and Hazard Mitigation Plan updates

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals is continuing a public hearing regarding a Comprehensive Permit application for a housing development. The board will hear presentations from the Housing Advocate and Local Planning Committee before discussing a waiver request.

• Case No. 2025-21: Application by Queen Anne Acres LLC and Mid Cape Church Homes, Inc. to construct 5 corridor buildings and 5 townhouse buildings (242 rental units)
• Project locations include parcels on Queen Anne Rd, Annasis Rd, and Main St
• Review of Waiver Request by Pine Oaks Village IV

The Harwich Zoning Board of Appeals held a continued public hearing for the Pine Oaks Village Phase IV comprehensive permit application (Case No. 2025-21), which proposes 242 rental units. The board reviewed waiver requests, heard presentations from the Housing Advocate and Local Planning Committee, and took public comments. No decisions were made; the hearing was continued to October 15, 2025, by a 7-0 vote.

• Continued public hearing for Case No. 2025-21 to October 15, 2025 (7-0)

Finance Committee

The Harwich Finance Committee will meet on October 9, 2025, to discuss the town budget message, the budget and Town Meeting timeline, and the FY24 town audit. The committee will also consider approving meeting minutes from September 11, 2025, and receive updates on past discussions.

• Approve minutes for September 11, 2025
• Discussion on Town Budget Message
• Discussion on Town Budget and Town Meeting timeline
• Discussion on FY24 Town Audit
• Updates on past meeting discussions

Charter Commission

The Harwich Charter Commission will convene to approve the minutes from its October 2 meeting, listen to a presentation by the Edward J Collins Jr Center for Public Management, and hear public comments. The meeting is procedural with no substantive decisions scheduled.

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review the August sales report and discuss the SHI List and Housing Fair. The board will also hold an executive session to discuss specific exemptions and abatements.

• August Sales Report
• SHI List
• Housing Fair
• Executive session regarding Exemptions and Abatements

The Board of Assessors met and approved the minutes from the September 7, 2025 meeting, excluding executive session minutes. No substantive decisions were made; the board discussed ongoing items such as the SHI list and affordable housing assessment policies, and held an executive session before adjourning.

• Approved release of 9/7/2025 meeting minutes, excluding executive minutes (unanimous)
• Entered executive session at 2:53 p.m. (unanimous)
• Exited executive session at 3:59 p.m. (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 4:01 p.m. (unanimous)

Cemetery Commission

The Harwich Cemetery Commission will discuss old and new business including a $1,350 fence quote for the Harding Ryder gravesite, updates on veteran memorial projects, and year-to-date cemetery financial reports. The meeting will also address bills, deeds, and possible cemetery visits.

• Fence at Harding Ryder Gravesite: Cape Cod Fence $1,350 price quote
• Walk of Remembrance: Veterans Stone placed, Island Pond old Veterans Section loamed and seeded
• Year-to-date Cemetery Revolving Account, Cemetery Trust, and Cemetery Budget review
• Bills: Eversource, Agway Straw $93.46 and mileage
• Columbarium Wall discussion at Island Pond Cemetery

Select Board

The Harwich Select Board will hold a regular meeting with an executive session for collective bargaining and litigation strategy. In open session, they will hear a presentation on the 2024 audit, vote on sewer easements for the Phase 3A project, and consider several contracts and appointments.

• Approve taking of easements on Hummingbird Lane for Phase 3A sewer extension
• Contract with Allen Harbor Marine Service for $43,367.50 winter boat storage
• Contract with Harwich Port Boat Yard for $46,687.50 winter boat storage
• Approve South Harwich Meetinghouse building repairs
• Appoint Stephanie Ridenour as alternate to Barnstable County Dredge Subcommittee

The Harwich Select Board approved the appointment of Sean Driscoll and Jacob Rosado as student police officers, effective October 19, 2025, as recommended by Police Chief Kevin Considine. The board also approved several other items, including sewer easement takings, building repair requests, and contracts for winter boat storage. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Appointed Sean Driscoll and Jacob Rosado as student police officers (5-0)
• Approved sewer easement taking on Hummingbird Lane for Phase 3A sewer project (5-0)
• Approved South Harwich Meetinghouse building repairs (5-0)
• Sent Select Board Budget Message to Monomoy Regional School Committee (5-0)
• Approved second reading of Board and Committee Email Policy (5-0)
• Sent 30-day review letter for Pennrose Project at 456 Queen Anne Road (5-0)
• Authorized recruitment for Assistant Town Administrator (5-0)
• Approved winter boat storage contracts with Allen Harbor Marine Service ($43,367.50) and Harwich Port Boat Yard ($46,687.50) (5-0)

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will review responses from town agencies and discuss a Code of Conduct. The body is reviewing the current Harwich Charter, specifically focusing on the Select Board and Town Administrator chapters.

• Discussion of Chapter 3 regarding the Select Board
• Discussion of Chapter 4 regarding the Town Administrator
• Planning for a meeting with the Collins Group on October 9, 2025
• Discussion of potential dates for a public forum and work session
• Review of responses from town agencies regarding the Charter

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will discuss transferring Town-owned parcels with natural resource values from the Select Board to the Commission or Water Department. The body will also review several land-use requests and a sewer extension project.

• Possible vote to transfer Town-owned parcels to the Conservation Commission or Water Department
• Notice of Intent for Town of Harwich Phase 3A Sewer Extension Project at 15 Wales Road
• Notice of Intent for joint use dock reconstruction and dredging at 31 Mill Rd & 6 Brora Dr
• Request for Determination of Applicability for a single-family dwelling at 6 Duarte Drive
• Review and possible endorsement of CPC application for the study of Hinckley Pond

Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees

The Harwich Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees is meeting on October 1, 2025, to discuss trust funds with Rockland Trust and review the recruitment plan for the next library director. The board will also consider monetary donations, an art donation, and hold an executive session regarding collective bargaining with the Harwich Employees Association.

• Discussion and possible vote on annual meeting with Rockland Trust regarding trust funds
• Discussion and possible vote on recruitment plan and process for the next Library Director
• Vote to accept monetary donations
• Offer to donate framed 'Beacon of Hope' art by Thomas Kinkade
• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy with the Harwich Employees Association (HEA)

The Board approved the recruitment process for the Library Director, with changes requiring trustees to meet finalists and make the final selection. They also accepted $1,475 in donations and declined a donation of art by Thomas Kinkade. The annual investment report from Rockland Trust was presented, noting a $46,000 disbursement catch-up and a 55/45 equity/fixed income strategy.

• Approved recruitment process for Library Director with trustee meetings and final selection (5-0)
• Accepted $1,475 in donations (5-0)
• Declined donation of Thomas Kinkade art (5-0)
• Approved September 3, 2025 minutes with correction (5-0)

Board of Water/Wastewater Commissioners

The Board of Water & Wastewater Commissioners will consider a contract for SCADA services and receive a presentation on potential water protection open space parcels. The meeting includes updates on the Route 28 water main replacement and tank painting.

• Vote to approve EDR Contract for SCADA Services
• Presentation on Potential Water Protection Open Space Parcels
• Update on Route 28 Water Main Replacement Project
• Discussion of Charter Commission Project issues
• Tank painting update with start date of October 6, 2025

The Board of Water/Wastewater Commissioners voted unanimously to support transferring five specific town-owned parcels from Select Board custody to Water Department custody for water protection, in collaboration with the Real Estate and Open Space Committee and Harwich Conservation Trust. They also approved an EDR Contract for SCADA services. The Route 28 water main replacement project is progressing with bids expected in October and November. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved transfer of five parcels (Map 839 Z1, Map 107 E4-B, Map 98 H1-5, Map 52 N1-11, Map 52 N1-10) to Water Dept custody (5-0)
• Approved EDR Contract for SCADA Services (5-0)
• Held September 9, 2025 minutes for next meeting
• Requested legal clarification on Charter authority split (no vote)

Harwich Energy and Climate Action Committee

The committee will meet to discuss next steps for achieving Climate Leader status. Members will review the Truro roadmap and a request for input from the charter committee.

• Discussion of next steps for Climate Leader status
• Review of the Truro roadmap
• Charter committee request for input
• CLC update

The Harwich Energy and Climate Action Committee approved June minutes as revised and discussed plans to meet with Acting Town Administrator Tony Shiavi to educate him on the Climate Leader program. Members also discussed input for the Charter Review Commission, including the need for a Harwich Climate Action Plan and better communication on climate initiatives. No formal votes were taken on substantive items.

• Approved June minutes as revised
• Scheduled next meeting for Thursday, Oct 16 at 3:00 PM

Recreation and Youth Committee

The commission will meet to review beach season numbers and discuss old business regarding the splash pad and CPC article submissions. The meeting includes reports on recreation maintenance and the Fund 1540 budget.

• CPC Article Submissions
• Splash Pad Discussion
• Beach Season Numbers Review
• Budget Report (Fund 1540)

Select Board

The Harwich Select Board will hold its regular meeting on September 29, 2025, with an executive session for collective bargaining strategy. The board will discuss several town projects, including a Community Preservation Act grant, a property sale, and updates on Route 39 improvements. They will also review the Fiscal Year 2027 budget message and consider changes to the Monomoy Regional School District agreement.

• Vote to approve $120,000 Community Preservation Act grant for FORWARD at the Rock Phase II Project
• Discussion on sale of 310 Pleasant Lake Avenue property
• Presentation on planned improvements for Route 39 & Chatham Road
• Vote to approve Verizon conduit placement along Weston Woods Road
• Discussion on Pennrose Project at 456 Queen Anne Road

The Select Board approved a one-day suspension of the liquor license for Lucky Labrador, Inc. d/b/a Perks, to be served on June 2, 2026, following a show cause hearing that found a noise violation. The board also approved contracts with the dispatch union and IAMAW, a memorandum of agreement with HEA, a $120,000 Community Preservation Act agreement with FORWARD, and a Verizon conduit installation along Weston Woods Road. The FY2027 budget message was approved, and discussions were held on the South Harwich Meetinghouse agreement, a board email policy, and the Pennrose project.

• Approved one-day liquor license suspension for Perks, served June 2, 2026 (4-0)
• Approved contracts with dispatch union and IAMAW in executive session (4-0)
• Approved memorandum of agreement with HEA on reclassification of three positions (4-0)
• Approved $120,000 CPA agreement with FORWARD for Phase II project (3-0-1)
• Approved Verizon conduit installation along Weston Woods Road (4-0)
• Approved FY2027 budget message (4-0)

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will discuss responses from town agencies and a Code of Conduct. The body is reviewing Chapter 3 regarding the Select Board and Chapter 4 regarding the Town Administrator of the current Harwich Charter.

• Discussion of Chapter 3 (Select Board) and Chapter 4 (Town Administrator) of the Harwich Charter
• Review of responses from town agencies regarding the Charter
• Discussion of a Code of Conduct
• Planning for a meeting with the Collins Group on October 9, 2025
• Discussion of dates for a work session and public forum

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on several residential special permits and variances. The board is also continuing a comprehensive permit review for a large-scale rental housing development and a town sewer extension project.

• Comprehensive Permit for 242 rental units across 10 buildings at Queen Anne Rd, Annasis Rd, and Main St
• Variance for the Town of Harwich Phase 3A Great Sand Lakes Sewer extension project at 15 Wales Road
• Special Permit to reconstruct a deck at 15 Trinity Cove Road
• Special Permit or Variance for a screened-in porch and deck extension at 6 Fernwood Circle
• Special Permit or Variance for a bay addition and stairwell change at 12 Sea Way

The Harwich Zoning Board of Appeals approved four special permits and one variance. Special permits were granted for a deck reconstruction at 15 Trinity Cove Road, a screened-in porch and deck extension at 6 Fernwood Circle, and a bay addition and stair flip at 12 Sea Way. A variance was granted to the Town for a sewer pumping station at 15 Wales Road. The board also continued its review of the Pine Oaks Village 40B comprehensive permit application.

• Approved special permit for deck reconstruction at 15 Trinity Cove Road (5-0)
• Approved special permit for screened-in porch and deck extension at 6 Fernwood Circle (5-0)
• Approved special permit for bay addition and stair flip at 12 Sea Way (5-0)
• Approved variance for Town sewer pumping station at 15 Wales Road (5-0)
• Continued Pine Oaks Village 40B hearing to October 14 and 15, 2025
• Approved August 27, 2025 meeting minutes (6-0)

Treasure Chest Volunteer Committee

The Treasure Chest Committee is meeting to handle routine administrative business, including approving meeting minutes, filling committee vacancies, and confirming the chair. The committee will also review key holders and approve new volunteers.

• Approve minutes from July 30, 2025 meeting
• Recruit 1 committee member and 2 alternate members
• Motion to approve George as chair through FY26 (July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026)
• Approval of new volunteers and confirmation of process
• Review of key holders for Treasure Chest access

The committee voted to extend George Forester's term as chair to July 2026 and approved several operational policies for volunteers, including a three-month wait before issuing keys and lock box codes, and a requirement that at least three volunteers (one with a key) be on site to keep the Treasure Chest open. The committee also approved a motion requiring volunteers who clean during the week to vacate by 4:00 PM on weekdays when the transfer station closes. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved minutes of July 30, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved Cindy Beaulieu as new committee member (reported)
• Extended George Forester's term as chair to July 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved motion requiring at least three volunteers, one with a key, on site to keep Treasure Chest open (unanimous)
• Approved motion requiring volunteers cleaning during week to vacate by 4:00 PM on weekdays (unanimous)

Harwich Housing Authority

This regular meeting of the Harwich Housing Authority, scheduled for September 23, 2025, has been cancelled. The agenda included routine items such as approval of minutes, a financial report, warrant approval, and an executive director's report.

• Meeting cancelled
• Approval of minutes from July 22, 2025
• Financial report
• Approval of warrants 2025.7 and 2025.8
• Executive Director's report for September 2025

Planning Board

The Harwich Planning Board will hold a continued public hearing for a 28-unit multifamily special permit at 606 Route 28, with the applicant requesting another continuance to October 28, 2025. The board will also consider a site plan review for a new 8,877-square-foot steel building at 237 Queen Anne Road, a waiver for a water pump station at 15 Wales Road, and two ANR plan endorsements. A request to withdraw one application without prejudice is on the agenda.

• Continued public hearing for Case #PB2025-11: 28-unit multifamily structure at 606 Route 28, Map 14 Parcel 218-2, with continuance requested to Oct 28, 2025
• PB2025-24: Special permit for 8,877 sq ft steel building with 25 parking spaces at 237 Queen Anne Road; applicant requests withdrawal without prejudice
• PB2025-25: Town of Harwich requests waiver from site plan review for water pump station at 15 Wales Road as part of Phase 3A Sewer Project
• PB2025-26: ANR plan endorsement for property at 310 Route 137, extension requested to Oct 14, 2025
• PB2025-21: ANR plan to divide two lots into three at 246 Queen Anne Rd, parcels approx 22,251, 20,020, and 20,042 sq ft

Select Board

The Harwich Select Board will meet to discuss regional school funding, approve new liquor licenses for a Route 28 business, and vote on a stormwater asset management plan. The board will also hear a financial assessment presentation and consider appointments to the Affordable Housing Trust and a Town Administrator screening committee.

• Approve new liquor licenses for B & N Co., LLC (Dive, Dine & Drink) at 986 Route 28
• Vote to approve stormwater asset management plan (CWSRF-12515 Closeout)
• Discuss Monomoy Regional School District funding and Regional Agreement
• Vote to approve proclamation for Muddy Creek Bridge dedication to Private Joseph Conrad Blute
• Second review of Draft FY27 Budget Guidance

The Harwich Select Board approved the draft FY27 budget guidance as edited, appointed members to the Town Administrator Screening Committee, and approved licenses for Dive, Dine & Drink. The board also discussed the Monomoy Regional School District funding and regional agreement, and heard a needs assessment presentation for the Council on Aging. No final decisions were made on the school district agreement or the Affordable Housing Trust appointment process.

• Adopted draft FY27 budget guidance as edited (5-0)
• Appointed Town Administrator Screening Committee members (5-0)
• Appointed Jack Mawn as Chair of the Screening Committee (5-0)
• Approved common victualler and entertainment licenses for Dive, Dine & Drink (5-0)
• Approved outdoor alteration of premises for Dive, Dine & Drink (5-0)
• Approved Muddy Creek Bridge dedication proclamation (5-0)
• Authorized Chair to sign Stormwater Asset Management Plan closeout (5-0)
• Held September 15 meeting minutes pending amendment

Cemetery Commission

The Cemetery Commission will discuss the placement of signs at several cemeteries and the status of work orders for roadway signs and the Walk of Remembrance. The body will also review plot deeds for Mount Pleasant and Island Pond cemeteries.

• Deed for 56B Pine Ave (Mount Pleasant) for $800.00
• Deed for D18S Main Avenue (Island Pond) for $1,600.00
• Deed for 520B West Main Avenue W (Island Pond) for $800.00
• Deeds for Pond Grove (Island Pond) totaling $3,550.00
• Relocation of Evergreen sign to Peace Avenue Entrance

Charter Commission

The Harwich Charter Commission will review responses from town agencies about proposed changes to the town charter, focusing on the authority of the Town Administrator relative to the Select Board. The meeting will also include a discussion of the current charter’s provisions.

• Review responses from town agencies on proposed charter changes
• Discussion of Town Administrator vs. Select Board authority under current charter

The Harwich Charter Commission met and approved the minutes from September 11, 2025. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting focused on discussing potential charter revisions, including the Town Administrator's authority and Select Board roles. No responses from town agencies had been received, and no votes were taken on charter changes.

• Approved minutes of September 11, 2025 (5-0)

Conservation Commission

The Harwich Conservation Commission will hear six land-use applications, four dock reconstructions, and two certificates of compliance at its September 17, 2025 meeting. The agenda includes continued reviews of a townhouse project and a building addition, plus new dock and bulkhead work, a house rebuild near a flood zone, and cranberry bog reactivation.

• Continued review of 6-unit townhouse at 64 Smith St with new septic, water main, and driveway work
• Continued review of septic and building addition at 8 Cranberry Way
• Dock reconstructions at 11 Nons Rd, 10 Harwich Pines, and 2071 Route 28
• New house rebuild at 297 Route 28 with flood-zone garage and septic
• Certificate of compliance for road to Pease Boatworks at 556 Depot St

The Harwich Conservation Commission approved several Notices of Intent and Orders of Conditions for residential property improvements, including dock reconstructions and septic system installations. The Commission also issued two Certificates of Compliance for projects that were never constructed. An indefinite continuance was granted for a townhouse development project at 64 Smith Street.

• Approved indefinite continuance for 64 Smith Street (4-0)
• Approved Notice of Intent for 8 Cranberry Way (4-0)
• Approved Order of Conditions for 11 Nons Rd (4-0)
• Approved Order of Conditions for 10 Harwich Pines (4-0)
• Approved Order of Conditions for 2071 Route 28 (4-0)
• Approved Order of Conditions for 297 Route 28 (4-0)
• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 556 Depot Street (4-0)
• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 4 Evergreen Way (4-0)

Waterways Committee

The Harwich Waterways Committee will discuss and possibly adopt new rules banning boat washing at Long Pond public access ramps. It will also review proposed dock and walkway replacements at 32 Dunes Road and 31 Mill Road, and a new dock construction at 37 Nons Road.

• Proposed ban on boat washing, flushing, or rinsing at Long Pond public access boat ramps
• 32 Dunes Road: proposed dock and walkway replacement
• 31 Mill Road: proposed dock replacement
• 37 Nons Road: proposed new dock construction

The Harwich Waterways Committee voted 5-0 to not endorse Plan #4188-08 for a proposed new dock at 37 Nons Road, citing channel encroachment concerns from the Harbormaster and Natural Resources Director. The committee also approved a dock and walkway replacement at 32 Dunes Road (Plan #CS-276) and postponed action on boat-washing restrictions at Long Pond ramps for further review and public comment. A dock replacement at 31 Mill Road was continued to the next meeting pending plan amendments.

• Approved dock and walkway replacement at 32 Dunes Road, Plan #CS-276 (5-0)
• Postponed adoption of boat washing/flushing prohibition at Long Pond ramps (5-0)
• Continued 31 Mill Road dock replacement case to next meeting (5-0)
• Rejected 37 Nons Road proposed new dock, Plan #4188-08 (5-0)
• Approved August 20, 2025 minutes (5-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Harwich Zoning Board of Appeals will continue a public hearing on a 242-unit affordable housing development proposed by Queen Anne Acres LLC and Pine Oaks Village Homes. The project spans multiple parcels along Queen Anne Road and Main Street in the RL Zoning District. Presentations will cover environmental, wetlands, rare species, stormwater, and site design reviews, followed by public comment and a vote to continue the hearing.

• Case No. 2025-21: Comprehensive Permit application for 242 rental units across 11 parcels
• Environmental, wetlands, and rare species impact reviews by Pine Oaks Village TV and TRC
• Stormwater management and site design updates by VHB
• Public comment period of 60 minutes
• Vote to continue public hearing for fall 2025 review

The Harwich Zoning Board of Appeals continued the public hearing for the Pine Oaks Village Homes comprehensive permit application (Case No. 2025-21) to September 24, 2025. The board heard extensive presentations on environmental, wetlands, wastewater, stormwater, and site design peer reviews, plus public comments. No final decision was made; the vote to continue was 7-0.

• Continued Case No. 2025-21 public hearing to Sept. 24, 2025 at 8:00 PM (7-0)
• Heard environmental and wetlands presentations from applicant's consultants
• Heard peer review presentations from TRC, VHB, and Conservation Agent
• Received Planning Director's recommendation to grant roadway width waiver
• Noted applicant will research pesticide waiver request and respond next meeting

Historic District & Historical Commission

The Harwich Historic District & Historical Commission will hold public hearings on five projects: partial demolition at 25 Pleasant Lake Avenue, temporary signage at 728 Main Street, two new signs at 328 Bank Street, full demolition at 5 Strandway, and chimney removal with an addition at 29 Pleasant Street. The meeting will also discuss a preservation restriction agreement, a National Register submission, and potential changes to the demolition delay period.

• Partial demolition at 25 Pleasant Lake Avenue (HH2025-20)
• Temporary sign at 728 Main Street for youth programs (HH2025-21)
• Two permanent signs at 328 Bank Street (HH2025-22)
• Full demolition at 5 Strandway (HH2025-23)
• Chimney removal and rear addition at 29 Pleasant Street (HH2025-24)

The commission imposed a 12-month demolition delay on the 1924 house at 5 Strandway, preventing full demolition until September 16, 2026. It also approved a certificate of appropriateness for two signs at 328 Bank Street, endorsed a preservation restriction for 97 Main Street, and continued two other hearings to October 15, 2025.

• Imposed 12-month demolition delay on 5 Strandway (4-0)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for two signs at 328 Bank Street (4-0)
• Endorsed Historic Preservation Restriction Agreement for 97 Main Street (4-0)
• Continued hearing HH-2025-20 (25 Pleasant Lake Ave) to Oct 15 (3-0)
• Postponed hearing HH-2025-21 (728 Main St) to Oct 15 (4-0)
• Approved draft guidelines for Historic Preservation Award (4-0)
• Appointed subcommittee for Historic Preservation Award program
• No demolition delay imposed for 29 Pleasant Street (4-0)

Capital Outlay Committee

The committee will discuss its role as defined by section 9 of the Charter. Members will also consider whether to include items under $50,000 on the Capital Plan.

• Discussion on the practice of putting items under $50,000 on the Capital Plan
• Discussion of the committee role per section 9 of the Charter
• Vote on future meeting schedule

The Capital Outlay Committee approved several amendments to the Harwich Town Charter, including changes to sections 9.5.2, 9.6.1, 9.6.2, 9.6.4, and 9.7.1, all by 6-0 roll call votes. The committee also approved meeting minutes from August 18 and August 29, 2025, with a correction to a name spelling. Future meetings were scheduled for October 22 and every Wednesday thereafter until November 19, 2025.

• Approved August 18 and August 29 meeting minutes with name correction (5-0-1)
• Approved charter section 9 and 4.3.2 wording as presented (6-0)
• Approved changes to charter section 9.5.2 (6-0)
• Approved changes to charter section 9.6.1 and additions (6-0)
• Approved changes to charter sections 9.6.2, 9.6.4, and 9.7.1 (6-0)
• Scheduled future meetings for October 22, 2025 and every Wednesday until November 19, 2025

Council On Aging Board of Directors

The meeting scheduled for September 17, 2025, was cancelled. The agenda had included discussions on medical rides policy and a needs assessment.

• Medical rides policy
• Needs Assessment
• Meeting time change

Voter Information Committee

The Harwich Voter Information Committee is meeting to discuss dates for the 2026 local election with the Town Clerk, review programming for Town Meeting 101, and handle administrative items including a legal services request and a leadership change due to a member's resignation.

• Report on conversation with Town Clerk for 2026 local election dates (nomination papers, election)
• Report on programming around Town Meeting 101
• Town of Harwich Request for Legal Services - Form Submission Required
• Change in Committee membership - Amy Jalbert's resignation and leadership reorganization

Bikeways Committee

The Harwich Bikeways Committee will meet to review existing meeting minutes, discuss a rule requiring users to walk to the right, and receive reports on trail conditions from FOCCRT and Linc. Old business includes further discussion on trail conditions and maps/boxes.

• Discussion of rule requiring users to walk to the right on trails
• Report from FOCCRT on trail conditions
• Report from Linc on trail conditions
• Review of trail conditions under old business
• Review of maps/boxes under old business

The Harwich Bikeways and Pedestrian Committee met and discussed several topics but made no formal decisions. They reviewed the state rule requiring walkers and riders to keep right, noted new signage and enforcement for e-bikes on the Cape Cod Rail Trail, and discussed a recent e-bike accident. They also received updates on the Safe Routes to Schools project, scheduled to go out for bid in December, and other trail extensions.

• Approved September 2025 meeting minutes
• Discussed 'Walk Left, Ride Right' but no action taken due to state rule
• Noted new signs and enforcement for e-bikes on Rail Trail
• Discussed recent e-bike accident near Long Pond
• Heard update on Safe Routes to Schools project, bid in December
• Noted trail extension at Wellfleet end delayed until Route 6 work
• Bourne extension on hold due to permitting
• Received 2000 new trail maps

Golf Committee

The Golf Committee will meet to review course maintenance and projects with the Golf Superintendent. The body will also hold initial discussions regarding rates and fees ahead of an October public hearing.

• Review of course maintenance and projects
• Initial rate and fee discussion
• Election of Golf Committee Officers

Board of Health

The Harwich Board of Health will meet to vote on multiple variance requests regarding septic system regulations and setbacks, including properties on Route 28, Cranberry Way, and Wah Wah Taysee. The board will also review a request for a dog-friendly space at Dive Dine & Drink, hear the September 2025 Health Director Report, and consider various new event and business permits.

• Variance request for septic system design flow greater than 2,000 gallons per day at 606 Route 28
• Variance requests for septic and FAST tank setbacks from a coastal bank at 8 Cranberry Way
• Title 5 setback variance requests for soil absorption systems and septic tanks at 14 Wah Wah Taysee
• Food code variance request for a dog-friendly space at Dive Dine & Drink, 986 Route 28
• Review of new permits and licenses for various event businesses and food vendors

The Harwich Board of Health approved a variance for 8 Cranberry Way (accessory dwelling unit) and for 14 Wah Wah Taysee (setback relief), both with conditions including I/A technology and O&M agreements. The board continued the 606 Route 28 variance request to October 21, 2025, pending submission of an emergency plan, lawn coverage plans, and watershed vs. groundwater runoff documentation. A dog-friendly space variance for Dive Dine & Drink (986 Route 28) was approved, and new event permits were approved as printed.

• Approved variance for 8 Cranberry Way with conditions (5-0)
• Approved variance for 14 Wah Wah Taysee with conditions (5-0)
• Continued 606 Route 28 variance to Oct 21, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved dog-friendly space variance for 986 Route 28 (5-0)
• Approved event permits as printed (5-0)
• Approved August 19, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)

Select Board

The Harwich Select Board will hold a regular meeting with an executive session on union negotiations, followed by open session business. Key items include reviewing a $715,377.36 contract for Cranberry Valley Golf Course irrigation supplies, initial draft budget guidance, and a possible response to an Open Meeting Law complaint from Ron Beaty.

• Contract with Northeast Nursery Inc. for $715,377.36 for Cranberry Valley Golf Course irrigation upgrade
• Open Meeting Law complaint from Ron Beaty dated August 30, 2025
• Discussion on developing an Entertainment policy
• License agreement recommendation for Dockside Restaurant at the harbor
• Special permit for one-day liquor license for Anthony Pagliaro at 15 Great Western Road on September 20, 2025

The Harwich Select Board approved a response to an Open Meeting Law complaint from Ron Beaty, authorized a one-year extension for Dockside Restaurant's license, approved a $715,377.36 contract for golf course irrigation materials, and approved a one-day liquor license for an event. The board also discussed an entertainment policy for Harwich Port and next steps on the Monomoy school agreement, but took no votes on those items.

• Approved response to OML complaint from Ron Beaty (5-0)
• Approved one-year extension of Dockside Restaurant license agreement (5-0)
• Approved $715,377.36 contract with Northeast Nursery for golf course irrigation (5-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for Anthony Pagliaro event (5-0)
• Approved legal services RFP (5-0)
• Approved in-house Finance Director recruitment process (5-0)
• Approved Finance Director salary of $170,000 +/- (5-0)
• Approved minutes and committee appointments (5-0)

Community Center Facilities Committee

The Harwich Community Center Facilities Committee will convene to approve prior meeting minutes, receive reports from the Council on Aging and Recreation, discuss next year’s budget projects, and hear a director’s update including a building operations review. The meeting will also include a program update and a Cranberry Festival preview.

The Harwich Community Center Facilities Committee met on September 12, 2025, and approved the August 8, 2025 minutes with a correction. Members discussed capital project requests for fiscal year 2027, including irrigation, furniture replacement, and door handicap mechanisms. The committee also received a letter from Select Board liaison Peter Piekarski and reviewed upcoming programs and building updates. No major decisions were made beyond routine approvals and informational updates.

• Approved August 8, 2025 minutes with correction to Paragraph 4bii (unanimous)
• Discussed capital project requests for 2027 fiscal year (no vote taken)
• Agreed to send agenda and minutes to Peter Piekarski per his request
• Noted new hire Michael Mitchell for evening shifts
• Reviewed upcoming September/October programs and events
• Reported facility kitchen passed inspection
• Noted fire department response to natural gas smell (pilot light out)

Cemetery Commission

The Cemetery Commission will discuss the placement of signs at several cemeteries and the status of work orders for roadway signs and the Walk of Remembrance. The body will also review plot deeds for Mount Pleasant and Island Pond cemeteries.

• Deed for 56B Pine Ave (Mount Pleasant): $800.00
• Deed for D18S Main Avenue (Island Pond): $1,600.00
• Deed for 520B West Main Avenue W (Island Pond): $800.00
• Deeds for Pond Grove (Island Pond): $1,000.00 each for Egan and Murray plots
• Signage relocation for Evergreen cemetery to Peace Avenue Entrance

Select Board

The Select Board is meeting to interview two candidates for appointments to multiple town committees, including the Affordable Housing Trust, Housing Committee, Conservation Commission, and others. The meeting is focused on the interview process and related appointment discussions, with no other substantive business on the agenda.

• Interview of Ellen Collins for Affordable Housing Trust, Housing Committee, Voter Information Committee, Real Estate and Open Spaces Committee
• Interview of Susan Cyr for Conservation Commission, Real Estate and Open Spaces Committee, Affordable Housing Trust, Housing Committee
• Discussion of interview/appointment procedures

Cultural Council

The Harwich Cultural Council is holding a regular meeting to reorganize, approve minutes, and receive reports from the chair and treasurer. Under new business, the council will discuss the FY26 grant cycle and a possible change to the meeting time. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific votes or dollar amounts listed.

• Discussion of FY26 grant cycle
• Discussion regarding change of meeting time
• Approval of minutes from May 8, 2025
• Treasurer report
• Agenda building for next month's meeting

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will meet to discuss committee reorganization, grant agreements, and financial reports. The body will also review a status report from the Lower Cape Housing Institute.

• Vote on annual dues for Community Preservation Coalition in the amount of $4,350.00
• Vote on Committee Reorganization
• Discussion of Grant Agreements
• Discussion of CPC recognition sign options
• Status report update from Lower Cape Housing Institute

Finance Committee

The Harwich Finance Committee will convene on September 11, 2025, to approve minutes from three prior meetings and vote on a memo to the Charter Commission. No new business items are listed, and old business includes a priority discussion following the vote.

• Vote on memo to the Charter Commission
• Approval of minutes from July 10, August 18, and August 21, 2025

The Harwich Finance Committee approved a memo to the Charter Commission and authorized the chair to work with the Select Board liaison to establish a working group on revolving accounts, notably 204 Sisson Road. They also authorized the chair to inquire about attending the presentation of the Town Finance Report to the Select Board. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved memo to Charter Commission (9-0)
• Authorized chair to work with liaison on revolving accounts working group (9-0)
• Authorized chair to inquire about attending Select Board presentation (9-0)
• Approved minutes for July 10, August 18, and August 21, 2025 (7-0-2)

Charter Commission

The Harwich Charter Commission will discuss and possibly vote on responses from town agencies regarding the current charter, focusing on Select Board and Town Administrator provisions. The meeting will also review the existing charter and allow public comments.

The Harwich Charter Commission met on September 11, 2025, and approved the minutes from August 28, 2025. The main business was a discussion with Interim Town Administrator Tony Schiavi about the current charter, including the Select Board and Town Administrator roles, and possible changes. No formal decisions were made on charter amendments.

• Approved August 28, 2025 minutes (6-0)

Traffic Safety Committee

The Harwich Traffic Safety Committee will hold a regular meeting to discuss and possibly vote on several traffic safety items, including a crosswalk application at 203 Bank Street, speed tables on Snow Inn Road, a four-way stop at Lothrop and Great Western, and a road safety audit at Pleasant Lake and Queen Anne. The committee will also receive an update on the Old Chatham Road and Route 39 engineering/survey/design status. Public comment will be heard.

• Crosswalk application at 203 Bank Street
• Speed tables application on Snow Inn Road
• Request for 4-way stop at Lothrop and Great Western
• Road Safety Audit at Pleasant Lake and Queen Anne
• Status update on Old Chatham Road and Rte 39 engineering/survey/design

The committee reviewed plans for a new crosswalk at 203 Bank and discussed speed tables on Snow Inn Road, with further discussion planned. They also addressed a request for additional traffic measures at Lothrop and Great Western after a serious accident, and noted an upcoming audit of the Route 39 and Queen Anne intersection. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was procedural and informational.

• Approved minutes of June 10, 2025 (unanimous)
• Reviewed plans for new crosswalk at 203 Bank; signs to be added
• Discussed speed tables on Snow Inn Road; further discussion at next meeting
• Noted Select Board moratorium on additional street lights for Whitehouse Field light issue
• Agreed to review Lothrop and Great Western intersection for additional signage and flashing stop signs
• Noted upcoming audit of Route 39 and Queen Anne area on September 11

Board of Water/Wastewater Commissioners

The Harwich Board of Water/Wastewater Commissioners will meet to consider several operational items, including a vote on a contract for tank painting and an update on the Route 28 East water main replacement project. The board will also discuss installing a new fountain at Exchange Park and hold a public comment period.

• Vote to sign contract with Worldwide Industries for tank painting at $835,250 and issue notice to proceed
• Update on Route 28 East Water Main Replacement Project
• Vote to install new unit at Exchange Park Fountain
• Charter Commission discussion
• Consent agenda: approve minutes from August 5 and August 19, 2025

The Board approved and signed a $835,250 contract with Worldwide Industries for tank painting, along with a Notice to Proceed, with work starting October 6, 2025. They also voted to install a new drinking water fountain at Exchange Park for about $6,000. The Board began discussing Charter language, agreeing to keep a five-member board with three-year terms and explicit authority over the Superintendent. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of August 5 and August 19, 2025 (4-0)
• Approved and signed tank painting contract for $835,250 (4-0)
• Approved and signed Notice to Proceed for tank painting (4-0)
• Approved installation of new fountain at Exchange Park (4-0)

Board of Assessors

The Harwich Board of Assessors will meet to discuss property tax matters, including a presentation on the impact of conservation land tax exemptions, the SHI list, an affordable housing exemption article, and a vote on CP-1. They will also hold an executive session to discuss exemptions and abatements.

• Presentation by Mike Lach (HCT) on conservation land tax exemption impact
• Discussion of SHI List
• Discussion of Chronicle Article on Affordable Housing Exemption
• Discussion and vote on CP-1
• Executive session for exemptions and abatements

The Harwich Board of Assessors approved and released meeting minutes from August 5 and August 26, 2025, while keeping executive minutes unreleased. The board also discussed the Subsidized Housing Inventory (SHI), PILOT programs, and a presentation from Michael Lach of the Harwich Conservation Trust, and held an executive session.

• Approved and released minutes of 8/5/2025 and 8/26/2025 (executive minutes not released)
• Entered executive session under M.G.L. C. 30a § 21 (a)(7) at 3:08 p.m. and exited at 3:21 p.m.
• Adjourned the meeting at 3:24 p.m.

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings regarding site plan and use permits for properties on Route 28. The board will also discuss a draft memo to the ZBA concerning Pine Oaks Village IV.

• Public hearing for 10-unit multi-family residential conversion at 72 Route 28
• Request to withdraw application for 93-space parking lot and path at 397 Route 28
• Review of Pine Oaks Village IV Comprehensive Permit draft memo to ZBA
• Local Comprehensive Plan update

The Harwich Planning Board approved a Multi-Family Special Permit and Site Plan Review for Davenport Realty Trust to convert an existing commercial condominium building at 72 Route 28 into 10 year-round rental apartments (8 one-bedroom, 2 studios) with no exterior changes. The board also accepted a withdrawal without prejudice for a separate parking lot proposal at 397 Route 28. The meeting included discussion of the Pine Oaks Village IV comprehensive permit but no decision was made on that item.

• Approved Multi-Family Special Permit and Site Plan Review for 72 Route 28 conversion to 10 rental units (4-1, Berry opposed)
• Accepted withdrawal without prejudice of Case #PB2025-09 for 93-space parking lot at 397 Route 28 (5-0)
• Adopted findings of fact for 72 Route 28 project (5-0)
• Closed public hearing for 72 Route 28 project (5-0)
• Recessed for 11 minutes during hearing (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Harwich Affordable Housing Trust

The Harwich Affordable Housing Trust is meeting to discuss new business, including a presentation from Habitat for Humanity's executive director on their development process, a request for a legal opinion on the Trust's access to counsel, and the Harwich Affordable Housing Tax Credit. They will also review minutes from three prior meetings and continue discussions on trust documents, property issues at 265 Sisson Road, RFPs for 0 Oak Street and 0 Depot Street, and updates on various housing initiatives.

• Habitat for Humanity development process presentation
• Request for KP Law opinion on Trust's access to legal opinions or separate counsel
• Discussion of Harwich Affordable Housing Tax Credit
• Review of minutes from August 11, 22, and 29, 2025 meetings
• RFPs for 0 Oak Street and 0 Depot Street

The Harwich Affordable Housing Trust voted unanimously to request a legal opinion from KP Law via the Interim Town Administrator regarding the Trust's access to legal opinions or need for separate counsel. The board also approved minutes from three prior meetings and discussed various housing projects, including Habitat for Humanity's development process and the Affordable Housing Tax Credit.

• Approved request for KP Law opinion on legal counsel access (3-0)
• Approved minutes from August 11, 22, and 29, 2025 (3-0)
• Held discussion on Habitat for Humanity development process
• Discussed Affordable Housing Tax Credit with assessing director
• Discussed ownership/lease issues on 265 Sisson Road
• Discussed RFPs for 0 Oak Street and 0 Depot Street
• Discussed updates on 456 Queen Anne Road and ADUs
• Agreed to next meeting on October 7, 2025

Select Board

The Harwich Select Board will meet on September 8, 2025, to vote on accepting gifts for town departments, approve contracts for golf course irrigation and fiber optic work, and decide on special liquor licenses for local events. The board will also discuss affordable housing, legal services, and staffing matters.

• Vote to accept gifts totaling $3,567.14 for Health Department, Community Center, and Conservation Department
• Approve $715,377.36 contract with Northeast Nursery Inc. for Cranberry Valley Golf Course irrigation upgrade
• Approve $186,721.50 contract with Comm-Tract for fiber optic installation and maintenance
• Vote on three one-day liquor license applications for events at Jimmy McPhee Memorial Field (75 Oak Street) and 204 Sisson Road
• Affirm Acting Town Administrator’s recommendation of Eleanor MacKay as Building Commissioner

The Select Board denied requests from The Port Restaurant and Ember to amend their entertainment licenses to allow amplified outdoor entertainment and extended operating hours, voting 4-0. The board also approved a $186,721.50 contract with Comm-Tract for fiber optic installation and maintenance, and affirmed Eleanor MacKay as Building Commissioner. A letter of support for Pennrose's Project Eligibility Letter was approved 4-1, with the fifth paragraph removed.

• Denied entertainment license amendments for The Port and Ember (4-0)
• Approved $186,721.50 fiber optic contract with Comm-Tract (5-0)
• Affirmed Eleanor MacKay as Building Commissioner (5-0)
• Approved letter of support for Pennrose Project Eligibility Letter, minus 5th paragraph (4-1)
• Approved $2,500 gift from Shaws/Star Market for The People's Fridge (5-0)
• Approved $200 gift from Christopher Senie/Bridge Camp for Community Center programming (5-0)
• Approved $867.04 gift from Whole Foods Hyannis for garden supplies (5-0)
• Approved gift of greenhouse from Harwich Conservation Trust for People's Garden (5-0)

Planning Board

The Harwich Planning Board will meet on September 8, 2025, to conduct a joint executive session with the Select Board at 5:15 PM to discuss litigation strategy. The meeting includes a recording notice and adjournment. No substantive decisions or public hearings are listed on this agenda.

Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees

The Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees will meet to review staff and committee reports, discuss the strategic planning process, and consider a vote to accept donations. The board is also scheduled to enter executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy with the Harwich Employees Association.

• Vote to Accept Donations

The Board of Trustees approved $2,350 in donations made in memory of Elizabeth Brake. Trustees also decided not to hire a consultant for the upcoming Strategic Plan, opting to manage the process internally.

• Approved August 6, 2025, meeting minutes (6-0-0)
• Decided against hiring a consultant for Strategic Plan
• Accepted $2,350 in memorial donations (7-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (7-0-0)

Conservation Commission

The Harwich Conservation Commission will hear multiple dock, septic, and construction projects at its September 3 meeting, including continuations from prior hearings. Projects include dock reconstructions, septic system work, house additions, and vegetation restoration near wetlands and cranberry bogs.

• Steven and Lauren McCabe seek approval for additions to a single-family home at 11 Nons Rd, including invasive plant removal and native restoration
• Lauren McCabe requests dock reconstruction at 11 Nons Rd (SE32-2598)
• Herbert R. Rasnick 2012 Revocable Trust seeks continuance to September 17 for septic and addition at 8 Cranberry Way
• Ellery Althaus proposes new house with flood-zone garage at 297 Route 28
• Harwich Conservation Trust seeks Commission support for Community Preservation Act funds to acquire land

The Harwich Conservation Commission approved several coastal projects, including a determination of applicability for a home addition with mitigation, multiple dock reconstructions, a bulkhead replacement, and new construction in a flood zone. All votes were 4-0. Two hearings were continued to later dates, and certificates of compliance were issued for two properties.

• Approved Request for Determination of Applicability for 11 Nons Rd with Negative 2 and Negative 3 determination (4-0)
• Approved Notice of Intent for dock reconstruction at 11 Nons Rd (4-0)
• Continued hearing for 8 Cranberry Way to September 17, 2025 (4-0)
• Approved Notice of Intent for dock reconstruction at 10 Harwich Pines (4-0)
• Approved Notice of Intent for bulkhead replacement at 2071 Route 28 with stipulation for planting plan review (4-0)
• Approved Notice of Intent for new house construction at 297 Route 28 (4-0)
• Continued hearing for 31 Mill Rd & 6 Brora Dr to October 1, 2025 (4-0)
• Approved Certificates of Compliance for 151 Gorham Road (SE32-2274 and SE32-2276) (4-0)

Local Planning Committee

The Harwich Local Planning Committee is meeting to approve the August 5, 2025 meeting minutes, welcome community members, and open the floor for comments and feedback on the Local Comprehensive Plan (LCP). The committee will also receive an update on outreach efforts to Town Committees and the Select Board. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or proposals listed.

• Review and approve meeting minutes from August 5, 2025
• Open comment and feedback on the Local Comprehensive Plan (LCP)
• Update on community outreach to Town Committees and Select Board

Capital Outlay Committee

The Capital Outlay Committee is meeting to approve minutes, debrief a site visit to the Department of Public Works, discuss its role under the town charter, and vote on future meeting schedules. The agenda is mostly procedural and discussion-oriented, with no specific funding decisions or project approvals listed.

• Approve meeting minutes from August 22, 2025
• Debrief on site visit to the Department of Public Works
• Discuss Capital Outlay Committee role per section 9 of the Charter
• Discussion and vote on future meeting schedule

The Harwich Capital Outlay Committee met on August 29, 2025, and approved the minutes from August 22, 2025, as amended. They discussed a site visit to the Department of Public Works, including solar panel options, and reviewed the committee's role under the Town Charter, suggesting language changes. The next meeting was scheduled for September 17, 2025.

• Approved August 22, 2025 meeting minutes as amended (5-0)
• Scheduled next meeting for September 17, 2025

Harwich Affordable Housing Trust

The Board of Trustees will meet to discuss and possibly vote on the release of four sets of executive session minutes from 2021.

• Vote to release Executive Session Minutes of January 5, 2021
• Vote to release Executive Session Minutes of March 12, 2021
• Vote to release Executive Session Minutes of May 20, 2021
• Vote to release Executive Session Minutes of June 24, 2021

The Harwich Affordable Housing Trust approved and released executive session minutes from January 5, March 12, and May 20, 2021, all by 3-0 votes. Minutes from June 24, 2021 were tabled because no official minutes could be found. The board also noted prior public actions to fund a title researcher and appraisal for Assessor's Map 82 Parcels R52 and R5.

• Approved executive session minutes of January 5, 2021 (3-0)
• Approved executive session minutes of March 12, 2021 (3-0)
• Approved executive session minutes of May 20, 2021 (3-0)
• Tabled executive session minutes of June 24, 2021 (3-0)
• Released executive session minutes of January 5, March 12, and May 20, 2021 (3-0)

Charter Commission

The Harwich Charter Commission will review responses from town agencies about proposed charter revisions and discuss ongoing governance topics, including Select Board and Town Administrator roles. A contract with Collins Group will also be considered. The meeting is procedural with limited concrete decisions expected.

• Contract with Collins Group for charter-related services
• Continuing discussions on Select Board (C3) and Town Administrator (C4) provisions in the Harwich Charter

The Harwich Charter Commission discussed who should hire and evaluate town employees, reaching general agreement that the Town Administrator would hire and evaluate most staff, except the Library Director and Water Superintendent, while the Select Board would hire the Town Administrator, Counsel, and election officials. The commission also discussed a recall provision and precinct representation. The September 4, 2025 meeting was cancelled due to a quorum issue, and the contract with the Collins Group was sent to the Interim Town Administrator for signature.

• Approved minutes of August 21, 2025 (8-0-1, London abstained)
• Cancelled September 4, 2025 meeting due to quorum issue
• Sent Collins Group contract to Interim Town Administrator for signature
• Agreed Town Administrator to hire/evaluate most staff, except Library Director and Water Superintendent
• Agreed Select Board to hire Town Administrator, Counsel, and election officials

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings for eight properties seeking special permits for non-conforming structures. The board will also discuss zoning code changes and the Harwich Charter Review.

• Special permits to raze and replace dwellings at 17 Miles Street, 71 Pleasant Street, and 9 Eastern Avenue
• Special permits for additions at 6 Port Pines Road, 19 Pine Needle Lane, 25 Seahorse Road, 6 Field Lane, and 32 Belle Brook Road
• Discussion of proposals for Zoning Code changes
• Review of Harwich Charter Review comments
• Scheduling of future Pine Oaks Village Comprehensive Permit Application meetings

Recreation and Youth Committee

The Harwich Recreation and Youth Commission will review routine maintenance reports, budget updates, and discuss potential policy changes and community projects like the splash pad. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Review of Senior Softball Fields Pavilion
• Potential Community Preservation Committee (CPC) articles discussion
• Splash Pad project discussion
• Budget report for Fund 1540
• Minutes from May 27 and July 22, 2025 reviewed

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a proposed metal building for contractor bays. The board will also consider a land division plan and a request to release covenants for multiple lots.

• Public hearing for a 4,800 square foot pre-fabricated metal building for contractor bays at 103 Main St Ext
• Endorsement of a Land Division Plan for 99 Queen Anne Road
• Request for Release of Covenant for 1594-1598 Orleans Road (Lots 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7)
• Continued hearing for a 28-unit multifamily structure at 606 Route 28 (continued to September 23, 2025)

The Harwich Planning Board approved a Site Plan Review Special Permit for a 4,800 sq ft prefabricated metal building for contractor bays at 103 Main St Ext, with conditions including septic approval and building plan review. The board also endorsed an ANR plan for 99 Queen Anne Road and released a covenant for lots on Orleans Road. A multifamily project at 606 Route 28 was continued to September 23, 2025.

• Approved Site Plan Review Special Permit for Scott's Landscaping at 103 Main St Ext (5-0-2, Maslowski and Munns abstained)
• Granted waiver for tree planting requirement at 103 Main St Ext (5-0-2)
• Closed public hearing for Case #PB2025-17 (5-0-2)
• Adopted Findings of Facts for Case #PB2025-17 (5-0-2)
• Endorsed ANR plan for 99 Queen Anne Road (7-0)
• Released covenant for lots at 1594-1598 Orleans Road (7-0)
• Accepted $256,000 financial security for remaining road work (7-0)
• Continued Case #PB2025-11 (multifamily at 606 Route 28) to September 23, 2025 (7-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss Paul Kapinos and Associates (PK Valuation Group). The board is also scheduled to review abatements and exemptions.

• Discussion of Paul Kapinos and Associates (PK Valuation Group)
• Executive session to discuss Exemptions and Abatements
• Review of Abatements
• Review of Exemptions

The Board of Assessors met and discussed the PK and Associates contract, noting they are one year into a three-year agreement and need to identify a new contact person. No formal decisions were made; the board will follow up after discussing with the company. The board also entered executive session and adjourned.

• Discussed PK and Associates contract, one year into three-year term
• Entered executive session (motion by Nightingale, seconded by Kavanaugh)
• Adjourned at 2:48 p.m. (motion by Nightingale, seconded by Kavanaugh)

Planning Board

The Planning Board is holding a public meeting at 99 Queen Anne Road. The board will consider an endorsement of a Land Division Plan for the property.

• Case # PB2025-22: Endorsement of an Approval Not Required (ANR) Plan for 99 Queen Anne Road

Select Board

The Harwich Select Board will hold a regular meeting with an executive session first. The board will vote on a contract for ambulance billing services, discuss correspondence about a sewer extension, and consider a conservation permit. Several items are for discussion only, including the Finance Director search and a policy on access to town counsel.

• Vote to award ambulance billing contract to COMSTAR, LLC for 2.5% of revenues
• Discussion on correspondence to Chatham Select Board about sewer service extension to Great Sand Lakes area
• Discussion and approval of Conservation Administrative Permit for ecological enhancement at Fernandes Bog entrance
• Vote to approve proclamation for National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
• Discussion on correspondence to Monomoy Regional School District about capital project timeline

The Harwich Select Board approved correspondence to the Chatham Select Board requesting inclusion of the Great Sand Lakes area in the Intermunicipal Agreement for sewer service. The board also approved a Conservation Administrative Permit for native plantings at the Fernandes Bog entrance, a contract with COMSTAR for ambulance billing, and a proclamation for Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. No substantive decisions were made on the Access to Town Counsel policy or the Finance Director search, which remain under discussion.

• Approved correspondence to Chatham Select Board re: sewer extension to Great Sand Lakes (5-0)
• Approved Conservation Administrative Permit for Fernandes Bog entrance native plantings (5-0)
• Approved contract with COMSTAR, LLC for ambulance billing at 2.5% of revenues (5-0)
• Approved proclamation for National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month (5-0)
• Approved correspondence to Monomoy Regional School District re: capital project timeline (5-0)
• Approved minutes from August 18, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved waiver of 14-day waiting period for Stephen Gingras appointment (5-0)
• Empowered Town Administrator to pursue Finance Director recruitment in-house (5-0)

Capital Outlay Committee

The Harwich Capital Outlay Committee will hold a regular session to discuss its role under the town charter, review the capital planning process for fiscal year 2027 with the Acting Town Administrator, and vote on future meeting schedules. The meeting is procedural with no concrete decisions on contracts or ordinances.

The Capital Outlay Committee met and approved the August 1, 2025 minutes. They discussed refining their role in the Town Charter, including a five-year capital plan and working with department heads, but made no final decisions. They agreed to send comments to the chair for synthesis and scheduled a site visit and next meeting for August 29, 2025.

• Approved meeting minutes from August 1, 2025 (6-0)
• Agreed to send comments and suggestions on Charter language to Chair Donovan for synthesis
• Agreed to strike the words 'during any budget year' in Charter section 9.62
• Agreed to add 'as well as by electronic means' to Charter section 9.71 regarding publishing
• Scheduled next meeting for August 29, 2025 at 9:00 AM (site visit) and 10:00 AM (meeting)

Conservation Commission

The Harwich Conservation Commission holds a work session to review a presentation by Kristin Andres of the Association to Preserve Cape Cod on drought-tolerant native plantings and their impact on water quality, erosion control, and wildlife habitat. Commissioners and the public may ask questions or provide comments.

• Presentation by Kristin Andres on drought-tolerant native plantings and their benefits

The Harwich Conservation Commission held a work session featuring a presentation by Kristin Andres of the Association to Preserve Cape Cod on drought-tolerant native plantings and eco-friendly landscaping. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational and ended with a motion to adjourn, which passed 4-0.

• Adjourned meeting at 2:39 PM (4-0)

Harwich Affordable Housing Trust

The Harwich Affordable Housing Trust will meet to review and possibly vote on releasing the minutes from November 13, 2024, and discuss the appointment of the acting town administrator or town administrator designee to the trust. No substantive decisions are listed in the agenda.

Finance Committee

The Harwich Finance Committee is meeting to discuss the town charter, gather feedback from a prior Monday session, and set committee priorities. The agenda is largely procedural with no specific votes or dollar amounts listed.

• Discussion of Charter
• Feedback from Monday
• Committee Priorities

Charter Commission

The Harwich Charter Commission will meet to continue its review of the town charter, including discussions on sections C3 and C4. They will consider responses from a search for a consultant and feedback from town agencies. The meeting is primarily for discussion and possible votes on these matters.

• Discussion of responses regarding search for consultant
• Review of responses from town agencies on the Charter
• Continued discussion on Charter sections C3 and C4

The Harwich Charter Commission voted unanimously to authorize the chair to sign a contract with the Edward J. Collins Jr. Center for Public Management for consulting services, after initially approving and then rescinding a prior vote. The commission also continued discussions on revising the town charter, focusing on the Select Board's and Town Administrator's roles, and agreed to seek advice from the consultant on appointment and supervision processes.

• Approved minutes of August 14, 2025 (8-0)
• Authorized chair to sign consultant contract with Collins Center (8-0)
• Rescinded previous vote on contract authorization (8-0)
• Re-authorized chair to sign contract after review by Mr. Urbano and Ms. Hall (8-0)

Council On Aging Board of Directors

The Harwich Council on Aging Board of Directors is meeting to approve minutes, hear the director's report on operations and volunteer needs, and discuss old business including a needs assessment and possibly voting on a Facilities Committee representative. Public comment and member comments are also on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from July 16, 2025 meeting (vote required)
• Director's report on current and anticipated operations
• Volunteer needs, recruitment, and training
• Needs assessment discussion
• Facilities Committee representative discussion and possible vote

Historic District & Historical Commission

The Harwich Historic District and Historical Commission will hold a public hearing on two Notice of Intent applications for properties over 100 years old, each involving partial demolition and new construction. The board will also discuss new business items including chimneys at 115 Route 28, Revolutionary War house plaques, a historic preservation award, and a possible National Historic Register submission for West Harwich.

• Public hearing HH2025-18: partial demolition of non-historic addition and new addition at 78 Bank Street (Map 14, Parcel W8)
• Public hearing HH2025-19: roof replacement, exterior staircase/roof deck removal, window and chimney work, and two additions at 11 Nons Road (Map 6, Parcel C1-10)
• New business: discussion of chimneys at 115 Route 28
• New business: Revolutionary War House plaques and Historic Preservation Award
• Discussion: West Harwich National Historic Register submission

The Harwich Historic District & Historical Commission closed two public hearings and approved partial demolition requests with specific conditions for properties on Bank Street and Nine Road. The commission also discussed a building department letter regarding 115 Route 28 chimneys, a historic preservation award draft, and the potential National Register submission for West Harwich.

• Closed public hearing for 78 Bank Street (Case HH2025-18) (4-0)
• Approved partial demolition at 78 Bank Street with Anderson 400 series FDLs condition (4-0)
• Closed public hearing for 11 Nine Road (Case HH2025-19) (4-0)
• Approved partial demolition and additions at 11 Nine Road with 6 over 1 Pella Architect Series SDLs condition (4-0)
• Authorized a letter to the Building Department regarding chimney caps at 115 Route 28
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:19 PM (4-0)

Conservation Commission

The Harwich Conservation Commission will hear five new project applications, including a dock reconstruction with dredging, a commercial septic upgrade, and residential construction. It will also vote on an amended permit for a CES system replacement and review ongoing litigation regarding a property at 30/34 Lothrop Avenue.

• Amended Order of Conditions for Paul Cormier’s CES system replacement at 65 Shore Road
• Determination of Applicability for Susan Luckfield’s deck and retaining wall at 12 Normans Way
• Commercial septic upgrade by Seth Adams at 203 Route 28 within coastal flowage area
• Notice of Intent for James & Jarmila Sullivan’s dock reconstruction and dredging at 31 Mill Rd & 6 Brora Dr
• Vote on ongoing litigation at 30/34 Lothrop Avenue

The Harwich Conservation Commission approved an amended order of conditions and an order of non-significance for a coastal engineering structure replacement at 65 Shore Road, allowing the project to proceed as originally approved. The commission also approved several other requests for determination of applicability, including a deck and retaining wall project, a commercial septic upgrade, a dwelling replacement, and a foundation excavation, all with negative determinations. A continuance was granted for a dock reconstruction project, and orders of conditions were approved for a cottage demolition and a swimming pool construction.

• Approved amended order of conditions and order of non-significance for 65 Shore Road coastal structure (4-0)
• Approved negative 3 determination for deck and retaining wall at 12 Normans Way (4-0)
• Approved negative 2 determination for commercial septic upgrade at 203 Route 28 (4-0)
• Approved negative 2 and negative 3 determinations for dwelling replacement at 14 Wah Wah Taysee (4-0)
• Approved negative 2 determination for foundation excavation at 8 Chloe's Path, with stipulation for landscape plan review (4-0)
• Continued dock reconstruction at 31 Mill Rd to September 3, 2025 (4-0)
• Approved order of conditions for cottage demolition at 70 Lothrop Ave (3-0-1, Coulson abstained)
• Approved order of conditions for swimming pool construction at 7 Old Wharf Road (4-0)

Waterways Committee

The Waterways Committee is meeting to discuss the replacement, reconstruction, and new construction of docks at five different properties. The body will also review and approve minutes from the June 18, 2025 meeting.

• Proposed dock replacement at 10 Harwich Pines
• Proposed dock replacement at 31 Mill Road
• Proposed dock reconstruction at 11 Nons Road
• Proposed new dock construction at 37 Nons Road
• Proposed new dock construction at 4 Mill Point

The Harwich Waterways Committee approved dock replacement plans for 10 Harwich Pines Road, 11 Nons Road, and 4 Mill Point, all by 5-0 votes. The committee postponed action on dock projects at 31 Mill Road and 37 Nons Road until the next meeting, pending more information and applicant attendance.

• Approved dock replacement plan for 10 Harwich Pines Road (5-0)
• Approved dock reconstruction plan for 11 Nons Road (5-0)
• Approved dock construction changes for 4 Mill Point (5-0)
• Postponed 31 Mill Road dock replacement to next meeting
• Postponed 37 Nons Road new dock construction to next meeting
• Approved June 18, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)

Board of Water/Wastewater Commissioners

The Harwich Board of Water/Wastewater Commissioners is meeting to discuss updates on the Route 28 East Water Main Replacement Project and tank painting, as well as grinder pump sewer regulations and the superintendent's evaluation. They will also consider an abatement for 34 Gorham Rd and approve minutes from previous meetings.

• Abatement request for 34 Gorham Rd
• Route 28 East Water Main Replacement Project update
• Tank painting update by Haley & Ward
• Grinder pump sewer regulations discussion
• Superintendent's evaluation

Board of Health

The Harwich Board of Health will hold a public meeting to vote on several variance requests related to septic systems and a dog-friendly space, as well as proposed amendments to dog-friendly space filing requirements. The board will also consider new licenses for events, food trucks, residential kitchens, stables, and utility installers, and hear the Health Director's report. All votes are to accept, deny, or take under consideration.

• Variance request for dog-friendly space at 545 Route 28 (continued from June 17)
• Variance request from Regulation 1.211 for septic system design flow >2,000 gallons/day at 606 Route 28
• Variance request from Title 5 nitrogen loading limit (440 gallons/day) at 8 Lakeway Lane
• Variance request from Regulation 1.210 for reduced setbacks at 8 Cranberry Way
• Proposed amendments to dog-friendly space variance filing requirements

The Board approved a variance allowing dogs in the outdoor dining area at Perks, 545 Route 28, with conditions. It also approved a variance for 8 Lakeway Lane to allow a two-bedroom septic system despite a one-bedroom deed restriction. Two other variance requests were continued to the September 16 meeting. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved dog-friendly outdoor dining variance for Perks, 545 Route 28 (5-0)
• Approved nitrogen loading variance for 8 Lakeway Lane with two-bedroom cap (5-0)
• Continued 606 Route 28 septic variance to Sept 16 pending abutter notification
• Continued 8 Cranberry Way setback variance to Sept 16 pending applicant presence
• Approved dog-friendly outdoor dining area guidelines with staff training requirement (5-0)
• Approved new licenses and permits as listed (5-0)
• Approved June 17 and July 15, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)

Bikeways Committee

The Harwich Bikeways Committee will review past meeting minutes, discuss potential universal trail use rules, address trail conditions, and follow up on e-bike concerns. The meeting is procedural but includes substantive discussions on trail management.

• Discussion of universal trail use rules
• Review of trail conditions
• Follow-up on e-bike concerns
• Review of existing meeting minutes

Select Board

The Harwich Select Board will meet to discuss the budget and warrant timeline for the 2026 Annual Town Meeting in a joint session with the Finance Committee and Capital Outlay Committee. The agenda also includes requests for amended entertainment licenses for local businesses, utility installations on Main Street and Cross Street, and executive session items regarding union and non-union personnel negotiations.

• Joint meeting with Finance Committee and Capital Outlay Committee on the 2026 Annual Town Meeting budget and warrant timeline
• Amended entertainment license request for Ember Pizza, Inc., d/b/a Ember, 600 Route 28
• Amended entertainment license request for The Port Restaurant and Bar, Inc., d/b/a The Port, 541 Route 28
• Eversource Energy request to install two new manholes and 250 feet of conduit on Main Street
• Authorization for Anthony Schiavi to file grant and loan applications for the Great Sand Lakes Sewer Extension Clean Water Trust State Revolving Fund 19044

The Select Board discussed but took no vote on amended entertainment license requests from Ember Pizza and The Port Restaurant to add outdoor amplified music, effectively denying the requests. The board approved several routine items, including consent agenda minutes, committee appointments, and two Eversource conduit installation permits. A joint meeting with the Finance and Capital Outlay Committees discussed the FY2027 budget and warrant timeline, with no formal votes taken.

• Approved consent agenda: minutes from Aug 4 & 11, 2025; appointments to Barnstable County Regional Emergency Planning Committee (5-0)
• Approved Russell Couturier to Golf Committee, term to June 30, 2028 (5-0)
• Approved disclosure of financial interest for Francesca Cusack (5-0)
• No motion made on amended entertainment license for Ember Pizza
• No motion made on amended entertainment license for The Port Restaurant
• Approved Eversource permit for 2 manholes and conduit on Main Street (5-0)
• Approved Eversource permit for conduit under sidewalk on Cross Street (5-0)
• Authorized Anthony Schiavi to file applications for Great Sand Lakes Sewer Extension Clean Water Trust State Revolving Fund (5-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to provide comments for the Charter Commission and discuss committee priorities. The body will also consider a potential joint meeting with the Select Board and Capital Outlay.

• Discussion and comments for the Charter Commission
• Potential joint meeting with Select Board and Capital Outlay
• Finance Committee Priorities
• List of Finance Committee Liaisons

The Harwich Finance Committee held a joint meeting with the Select Board and Capital Outlay Committee to discuss the 2026 Annual Town Meeting budget and warrant timeline. No formal votes were taken during the joint session, but the Finance Committee separately voted unanimously to appoint Tina Games as its liaison to the Monomoy and Regional School Districts. The committees discussed timeline adjustments, school capital planning, and the need for a Finance Director.

• Appointed Tina Games as FinCom Liaison to Monomoy and Regional School Districts (7-0)
• Discussed 2026 Annual Town Meeting budget and warrant timeline; no vote taken
• Discussed potential changes to capital plan process; no formal action
• Agenda items not discussed deferred to future meeting

Finance Committee

The Harwich Finance Committee will meet jointly with the Select Board and Capital Outlay Committee to discuss and possibly vote on the budget and warrant timeline for the 2026 Annual Town Meeting. Interim Finance Director Eric Kinsherf will provide an update, and votes may be taken.

• Possible vote on 2026 Annual Town Meeting budget and warrant timeline

Capital Outlay Committee

The Capital Outlay Committee will hold a joint meeting with the Select Board and Finance Committee. The body will discuss and possibly vote on the budget and warrant timeline for the 2026 Annual Town Meeting.

• Budget and warrant timeline for the 2026 Annual Town Meeting
• Update from Interim Finance Director Eric Kinsherf

The Capital Outlay Committee met in a joint session with the Select Board and Finance Committee to discuss the budget and warrant timeline for the 2026 Annual Town Meeting. No formal votes were taken regarding the timeline or budget items during this session. The committees discussed procedural concerns, including deadline adherence, school system capital planning, and the need for a permanent Finance Director.

• Adjourned the Capital Outlay Committee meeting (no votes taken)

Real Estate and Open Space Committee

The Real Estate and Open Space Committee will meet to consider the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property in an executive session, and to review parcels assigned to the Select Board for potential additional protection. The meeting also includes public comments, approval of minutes, and member reports.

• Executive session under MGL c.30A, §21(6) to discuss real property transactions
• Review of parcels assigned to the Select Board for possible additional protection
• Approval of minutes from July 11, 2025

The committee heard public comment on the tax impact of conservation land and discussed submitting a letter on the topic, but took no action. They also discussed funding options for a property research project, including a possible CPA application, and approved the July minutes. No formal decisions were made beyond accepting the minutes.

• Approved minutes of July 11, 2025 (unanimous)

Cemetery Commission

The Harwich Cemetery Commission will review old business including sign placements at Kelley, Baptist, and Lothrop/Wixon cemeteries, a fence at the Harding Ryder gravesite, and a Walk of Remembrance work order. They will also discuss new bills and possible commissioner visits to cemeteries.

• Relocate Evergreen Sign to Peace Avenue Entrance
• Install new signs for Peace Way & McKenney Way roadways
• Review fence at Harding Ryder Gravesite
• Approve $41.17 EverSource bill and $18.96 Amazon bill
• Discuss Eagle Scout Project at East Harwich Union Cemetery fence replacement

Select Board

The Select Board Interview Committee is meeting to conduct interviews for two committee positions. The board will also hold miscellaneous discussions regarding interview and appointment procedures.

• Interview of Paul Doane for Community Preservation Committee (Historic and Historical District Commission representative)
• Interview of Russell Couturier for Golf Committee

Community Preservation Committee

The Harwich Community Preservation Committee will hold a regular meeting to vote on committee reorganization, annual dues for the Community Preservation Coalition ($4,350), and discuss recognition sign options, a financial report, and an update from the Lower Cape Housing Institute. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from previous meetings and updates on social media and the website.

• Vote on annual dues for Community Preservation Coalition, $4,350.00
• Discussion and vote on committee reorganization
• Discussion of CPC recognition sign options
• Update from Lower Cape Housing Institute
• Approval of minutes from June 12 and June 23, 2025 meetings

Finance Committee

The Harwich Finance Committee is meeting to approve minutes, discuss comments for the Charter Commission, consider a joint meeting with the Select Board and Capital Outlay, and set committee priorities. The agenda is largely procedural and discussion-oriented, with no specific votes or dollar amounts listed.

• Approve minutes of July 10, 2025
• Discussion and comments for the Charter Commission
• Potential joint meeting with the Select Board and Capital Outlay
• Finance Committee Priorities
• List of Finance Committee Liaisons

Charter Commission

The Harwich Charter Commission will discuss and possibly vote on responses to its search for a consultant and feedback from town agencies regarding the charter. They will also review the current Harwich Charter, specifically provisions related to the Select Board and Town Administrator. This is a continuing discussion with no final decisions listed on the agenda.

• Discussion and possible votes on consultant search responses
• Review of feedback from town agencies on the charter
• Discussion of Charter C3 (Select Board) and Chapter 4 (Town Administrator)
• Public comments

Harwich Housing Committee

The Harwich Housing Committee will meet to reorganize its board and prioritize upcoming work. The committee will discuss topics including zoning, funding sources, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs).

• Reorganization of the board
• Discussion of zoning
• Discussion of ADUs
• Review of SHI List
• Discussion of funding sources

General

The By-Law Charter Review Committee is meeting to review minutes from March and discuss next steps, considering that the elected Charter Commission has begun its work. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific decisions or proposals listed.

• Review and approval of minutes from March 18, 2025
• Discussion on next steps in light of the elected Charter Commission's work

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings on two special permit requests for construction and land use changes. The board will also consider a land division plan endorsement and receive updates on the Local Comprehensive Plan.

• Public hearing for a 4,800 square foot metal building for contractor bays at 103 Main St Ext
• Public hearing to convert a commercial/office condominium into a 10-unit multi-family structure at 72 Route 28
• Endorsement of a Land Division Plan for 99 Queen Anne Road
• Town Planner update on Pine Oaks Village IV request from Zoning Board of Appeals
• Update on the Local Comprehensive Plan

The Harwich Planning Board voted unanimously to continue three cases to future meetings: a site plan review for a metal building at 103 Main Street Ext (to Aug 26), a multi-family conversion at 72 Route 28 (to Sept 9), and an ANR endorsement at 99 Queen Anne Road (to Aug 26). The board also voted 5-0 to release a covenant for Lot 3 at 16 Turtle Run, with the applicant providing $6,000 for remaining work. No final approvals were granted.

• Continued Case PB2025-17 (metal building at 103 Main Street Ext) to Aug 26, 2025 (5-0)
• Continued Case PB2025-19 (10-unit conversion at 72 Route 28) to Sept 9, 2025 (5-0)
• Continued Case PB2025-22 (ANR plan at 99 Queen Anne Road) to Aug 26, 2025 (5-0)
• Released covenant for Lot 3, 16 Turtle Run (Case PB2025-20) with $6,000 for remaining work (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

General

The Harwich Select Board will hold an executive session to discuss collective bargaining and litigation strategy before convening a regular meeting. Key votes include a $574,700 contract amendment for sewer extension design work and a decision on an affordable housing project at 456 Queen Anne Road. The board will also consider amendments to entertainment licenses for two local businesses.

• Vote to approve $574,700 contract change for GHD Inc. for Great Sand Lakes Sewer extension design work
• Vote on Project Eligibility Letter for 456 Queen Anne Road affordable housing development by Pennrose, LLC
• Vote to amend Entertainment License for Ember Pizza, Inc. (600 Route 28)
• Vote to amend Entertainment License for The Port Restaurant and Bar, Inc. (541 Route 28)
• Discussion and possible vote on Town Administrator Executive Search with Groux-White Consultants

The Harwich Select Board approved a $574,700 contract change for GHD Inc. to complete the design work for the Great Sand Lakes Sewer extension, and approved Bob Nickerson to the Brooks Academy Museum Designer Selection Committee. The board discussed but took no vote on the Pennrose affordable housing project at 456 Queen Anne Road, and continued the entertainment license amendments for Ember and The Port to August 18. The board also discussed the Town Administrator search process with consultant Groux-White.

• Approved $574,700 contract change for GHD Inc. for Great Sand Lakes Sewer extension design (5-0)
• Approved Bob Nickerson to Brooks Academy Museum Designer Selection Committee, replacing Lynn Zalesak (5-0)
• Continued entertainment license amendments for Ember Pizza and The Port Restaurant to August 18 meeting
• Entered executive session to discuss collective bargaining, litigation, and release of prior minutes (5-0)

Harwich Affordable Housing Trust

The Board of Trustees will discuss affordable housing initiatives, including a funding application and a letter of support for a Penrose application. The meeting includes reviews of subsidized housing inventory and accessory dwelling units.

• Application for funds for 5 Bells Neck Bldg. 2
• Possible vote on letter in support of Penrose application
• Review of Local Action Units (LAU) 40B and Local Initiative Program (LIP) process
• Update on public engagement for 456 Queen Anne Road
• Discussion on inclusionary zoning and affordable housing

The Harwich Affordable Housing Trust approved an additional $10,000 per unit for the 5 Bells Neck Rd. Building 2 project, raising Trust support from $201,667 to $211,667 per unit (3-0). The Trust also approved a letter supporting Penrose's application to the Brewster Community Preservation Committee for the proposed 60-unit Queen Anne Road development (4-0). Discussion on Trust document language changes was continued to a future meeting.

• Approved additional $10,000 per unit for 5 Bells Neck Bldg. 2 (3-0)
• Approved letter of support for Penrose's Brewster CPC application (4-0)
• Approved minutes of July 7, 2025 (4-0)
• Continued Trust document language discussion to future agenda
• Continued LAU 40B/LIP process review to future agenda

Community Center Facilities Committee

The Harwich Community Center Facilities Committee will convene to approve the minutes from its June 13, 2025 meeting and receive reports from the Council on Aging (COA) and Recreation Department. The meeting will cover old and new business, including staff updates, project proposals for the next budget year, and operational updates such as gym fans and building doors/air conditioning.

• Approval of June 13, 2025 meeting minutes
• New liaison for Selectboard to Facility Committee: Peter Piekarski
• Projects proposed for next year’s budget
• Status update on gym fans and building doors/air conditioning
• Cranberry Festival scheduled for September 12–14

The Harwich Community Center Facilities Committee approved its June minutes, discussed updates on programs and building repairs, and reorganized its leadership for the next term. Angelina Chilaka, Heath Eldredge, and Chris Joyce were elected as Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk, respectively. The committee also discussed potential 2027 budget items, including new basketball nets and facility improvements.

• Approved June 13, 2025 minutes with correction (unanimous)
• Elected Angelina Chilaka as Chair, Heath Eldredge as Vice Chair, Chris Joyce as Clerk (motion by Eldredge, second by Thomason)
• Approved motion to adjourn (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Harwich Conservation Commission will hold a public meeting to review several Notices of Intent for projects affecting wetlands, including a cottage demolition, dock reconstructions, a swimming pool, a bulkhead replacement, and a 6-unit townhouse development. The commission will also consider Orders of Conditions, Certificates of Compliance, and board reorganization. Two dock projects are continued from a previous meeting.

• Anne Brensley and Virginia A. Hung, 64 Smith Street: demolition of 2 barns and 4 sheds, construction of 6-unit townhouse, new septic system and water main
• Harwich Conservation Trust, 70 Lothrop Ave: cottage demolition
• Andrea Roman, 2071 Route 28: bulkhead cap replacement, fill, riprap, stairs, invasive species management
• Silver Shores Cape Cod, LLC, 0 & 69 Snow Inn Road: dock restoration (Order of Conditions)
• Kreitler Corporation, 8 Mill Road: sewer system replacement and beach cleaning (Certificates of Compliance)

The Harwich Conservation Commission approved a Notice of Intent for the Harwich Conservation Trust to demolish a cottage at 70 Lothrop Ave to re-naturalize the site, with a 5-0 vote. The Commission also approved several other permits, including a swimming pool construction and an Order of Conditions for dock restoration, and continued multiple hearings to future meetings. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Notice of Intent for cottage demolition at 70 Lothrop Ave (5-0)
• Continued dock reconstruction hearing for 10 Harwich Pines to Sept 3, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved swimming pool construction at 7 Old Wharf Road (5-0)
• Continued bulkhead replacement project at 2071 Route 28 to Sept 3, 2025 (5-0)
• Continued townhouse construction at 64 Smith Street to Sept 17, 2025 (5-0)
• Continued dock reconstruction at 11 Nons Rd to Sept 3, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved Order of Conditions for dock restoration at Snow Inn Road with modifications (5-0)
• Approved Certificates of Compliance for 8 Mill Road (5-0)

Brooks Academy Museum Commission

The Harwich Brooks Academy Museum Commission will hold a public meeting to approve past minutes, elect new officers, and receive an update from Sean Libby. The commission will also discuss the upcoming Brooks Academy Design Selection Committee and its chair.

• Election of new officers
• Upcoming Brooks Academy Design Selection Committee – chair
• Update from Sean Libby

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Harwich Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on August 6, 2025, concerning a comprehensive permit application for the Pine Oaks Village IV development. The agenda includes presentations and peer reviews on traffic, public safety, site and civil design, and stormwater plans for the proposed 242-unit rental housing project. The board will also discuss and vote on continuing the public hearing to September 17, 2025.

• Case No. 2025-21: Comprehensive Permit application by Queen Anne Acres LLC and Mid Cape Church Homes, Inc., d/b/a Pine Oaks Village Homes, to construct 5 corridor buildings and 5 townhouse buildings consisting of 242 rental units.
• Traffic and Public Safety Study presentation by Pine Oaks Village IV and peer review by VHB.
• Site and Civil Design Plans, Stormwater and Drainage Plan presentation and peer review by VHB.
• Public comments session (30+ minutes).
• Discussion and Vote to Continue the Public Hearing to September 17, 2025.

The Harwich Zoning Board of Appeals continued the public hearing for the Pine Oaks Village 40B comprehensive permit application to September 17, 2025. The board voted unanimously to formally request that the applicant present site, stormwater, and grading plans to the Planning Board and Conservation Commission for advisory input. No final decision was made on the application.

• Continued public hearing for Case 2025-21 to September 17, 2025 (7-0)
• Approved motion requesting applicant present site/stormwater plans to Planning Board and Conservation Commission (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:35 PM

Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees

The Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees will discuss and possibly vote on a draft policy on reciprocal borrowing privileges, which affects whether non-residents can use the library. The board will also review FY26 goals and project timing for the strategic plan and interior modifications, and vote on accepting donations. An executive session is scheduled to discuss collective bargaining strategy with the Harwich Employees Association.

• Draft Policy on Reciprocal Borrowing Privileges — discussion and possible vote
• FY26 Goals and Project Timing — Strategic Plan, Interior Modifications Project
• Vote to Accept Donations
• Executive session: collective bargaining strategy with Harwich Employees Association (HEA)
• Executive session: review of possible release of executive session minutes

The Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees agreed to request a one-year deferral of the town capital plan's interior modification project, pending an updated strategic plan. They also approved a revised reciprocal borrowing policy and accepted a $100 donation. A Strategic Planning Committee was formed to oversee the planning process.

• Agreed to request deferral of capital plan interior modifications for one year (consensus)
• Approved draft policy on Reciprocal Borrowing Privileges with three modest changes (unanimous)
• Accepted $100 donation from Paul & Christine Lapuc in memory of Len Sarver (unanimous)
• Appointed Brown and McCarty to Strategic Planning Committee with Hewitt as member (consensus)

Board of Water/Wastewater Commissioners

The Board of Water and Wastewater Commissioners will discuss updates on the Route 28 East Main Water Replacement Project and review bid results for tank painting. The board is also reviewing water and wastewater usage abatements for FY25 Q4.

• Route 28 East Main Water Replacement Project update
• Tank Painting bid results
• FY25 Q4 Water Department Usage abatements
• Grinder Pump Sewer Regulations
• Charter Commission request for input

General

The Board of Assessors will meet to review office updates and reassessment reports. The meeting includes an executive session to discuss specific tax exemptions and abatements.

• Reassessments update
• DOR Reevaluation update
• County Warrants
• Executive session on Exemptions and Abatements

The Harwich Board of Assessors met on August 5, 2025, and took two substantive actions: they approved and released the minutes from the July 8, 2025 meeting (excluding executive session minutes), and they unanimously approved County Warrants. No other decisions were made; the rest of the meeting was procedural, including a briefing, public comment (none), and an executive session.

• Approved and released minutes of 7/8/2025, excluding executive minutes (unanimous)
• Approved County Warrants (unanimous)

Local Planning Committee

The Harwich Local Planning Committee will meet to review and approve July 1, 2025 meeting minutes, present a slide deck on Land Comprehensive Plan (LCP) data collection and community visioning, and open the floor for public feedback on the LCP drafting process. The committee will also provide updates on future meeting dates.

• Review and approve July 1, 2025 meeting minutes
• Presentation on LCP data collection, community visioning, and drafting process
• Open comment and feedback session on LCP from community
• Update on future meeting dates for Town Committee, Community Outreach, and Select Board

Planning Board

The Harwich Planning Board is holding a public meeting to present and discuss the Local Planning Committee's Final Draft Local Comprehensive Plan. This is a discussion item, not a final vote, and the public can attend in person or via hybrid format.

• Presentation and discussion of the Final Draft Local Comprehensive Plan
• Meeting held in the Griffin Room at Harwich Town Hall, 732 Main Street
• Hybrid access available via GoToMeeting with dial-in option

Select Board

The Harwich Select Board will discuss and potentially vote on authorizing documents for the Great Sand Lakes (Phase 3A) Sewer Extension Project and awarding a $119,000 contract for a generator replacement at 204 Sisson Road. The agenda also includes executive session discussions on union and non-union contract negotiations, presentations from various town departments for non-resident taxpayers, and old business regarding legal services and the Finance Director position.

• Discussion and possible vote to authorize the Acting Town Administrator to sign documents for the Great Sand Lakes (Phase 3A) Sewer Extension Project
• Discussion and possible vote to award a $119,000.00 contract to Fall River Electrical Associates, Co., Inc. for generator replacement at 204 Sisson Road
• Discussion and possible vote on legal services request for proposals
• Discussion regarding Finance Director position
• Approval of Select Board Meeting Minutes from July 28, 2025

The Select Board approved a $119,000 contract to Fall River Electrical Associates for replacing the generator at 204 Sisson Road. The board also approved minutes from July 28, 2025, and authorized the release of partially redacted executive session minutes from July 28. A motion to authorize the Acting Town Administrator to sign documents for the Great Sand Lakes sewer project was withdrawn after board members expressed concerns. The meeting was largely informational, with department heads presenting updates to non-resident taxpayers.

• Approved $119,000 generator replacement contract to Fall River Electrical Associates (5-0)
• Approved Select Board minutes from July 28, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved release of July 28 executive session minutes with heavy redactions
• Withdrew motion to authorize Acting Town Administrator to sign Great Sand Lakes sewer documents

Capital Outlay Committee

The Harwich Capital Outlay Committee will meet to approve past minutes, reorganize leadership roles, and discuss a site visit to Harwich Elementary School. The meeting will also review outstanding capital projects and consider future agenda topics.

• Vote to reorganize committee leadership (Chair, Vice Chair, Clerk)
• Debrief on site visit to Harwich Elementary School
• Discussion on outstanding Capital Projects

The Capital Outlay Committee approved prior meeting minutes, reorganized its leadership, and discussed future agenda topics and site visits. No capital projects were approved or denied; the meeting was largely procedural and planning-focused.

• Approved March 20, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0-1, Gallucci abstained)
• Reappointed Martha Donovan as Chair (4-0-1, Donovan abstained)
• Reappointed Ann Clark Tucker as Vice Chair (5-0)
• Appointed Scott Norum as Clerk (5-0)
• Agreed on future agenda topics including debt forecast, debt servicing, capital exclusion, items under $50,000, charter review, and cost per $1,000 of debt
• Agreed on potential site visits to Police Station, Fire Stations, DPW, beaches/parking lots/ramps, and Harbor

Charter Commission

The Harwich Charter Commission will discuss and possibly vote on responses from consultant searches and town agencies regarding the town charter. They will also continue reviewing the current charter, including budget timelines and the role of the Town Administrator. The meeting is a working session with public comment.

• Responses from consultant search
• Responses from town agencies on charter thoughts
• Discussion of budget timelines
• Review of Town Administrator role (Charter C 5)

The Harwich Charter Commission met and approved the July 24 minutes with a spelling correction. No substantive decisions were made; members discussed possible charter language changes, town administrator reporting structure, and department divisions, and agreed to cancel the August 7 meeting.

• Approved July 24, 2025 minutes with spelling correction (5-0-1, Waystack abstained)
• Consensus to skip August 7, 2025 meeting
• Scheduled next meeting for August 14, 2025 at Community Center

General

The Treasure Chest Committee is meeting to review website findings and establish operational requirements. The body will discuss the minimum number of experienced volunteers needed to keep the site open and potential changes to the 2:30 deadline for last drop items.

• Review of Treasure Chest website findings
• Determination of minimum experienced volunteer staffing levels
• Discussion of changing the 2:30 deadline for last drop items

The Treasure Chest Committee voted to require a minimum team of 3 volunteers to maintain operational integrity of the Treasure Chest. They also agreed to abide by the official town website guidelines for the committee. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural and informational.

• Approved minutes of June 18, 2025 meeting (all in favor)
• Approved motion to abide by guidelines as posted on official town website (all in favor)
• Approved motion requiring minimum team of 3 volunteers for operational integrity (all in favor)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings for seven property owners seeking variances or special permits for home additions and garages. The board will also discuss assigning tasks to the Vice Chair and vote on reorganizing the board.

• Case 2025-27: Variance for an attached garage at 20 Connecticut Av.
• Case 2025-31: Special Permit for an addition and enclosed porch at 18 Bank St.
• Case 2025-32: Special Permit for an addition at 6 Port Pines Rd.
• Case 2025-33: Special Permit or Variance for two additions at 11 Nons Rd.
• Case 2025-36: Special Permit or Variance for a 2-car garage with a second story ADU at 8 Cranberry Way.

The Harwich Zoning Board of Appeals approved five special permits for residential projects, including additions, dormers, and a garage with an accessory dwelling unit, all by 5-0 votes. One case was continued to August 27, and the board reorganized its officers, keeping Brian Sullivan as Chair and electing Ken Dickson as Vice Chair.

• Granted special permit for addition and porch enclosure at 18 Bank St. (5-0)
• Granted special permit for two additions at 11 Nons Rd. (5-0)
• Granted special permit for shed dormers and addition at 25 Wah Wah Taysee Rd. (5-0)
• Granted special permit for addition at 29 Pleasant St. (5-0)
• Granted special permit for 2-car garage with second-story ADU at 8 Cranberry Way (5-0)
• Continued case 2025-32 (6 Port Pines Rd.) to August 27 meeting (5-0)
• Re-elected Brian Sullivan as Chair, Ken Dickson as Vice Chair, Alexander Donoghue as Clerk (5-0)
• Approved minutes of June 18, June 25, and July 9 meetings as amended (5-0)

Historic District & Historical Commission

The Historic District & Historical Commission will hold a public hearing on a proposed partial demolition and exterior renovation at 73 Route 28. The 100-year-old building is owned by 73 Main Street LLC and represented by agent James Twitchell. The meeting follows a continued hearing from July 16, 2025.

• HH2025-16: Partial demolition and vinyl siding/aluminum trim installation at 73 Route 28 (Parcel W)
• Public hearing on demolition request (continued from 07.16.2025)

The Commission approved a partial demolition and siding project for the property at 73 Route 28. The approval includes specific conditions requiring the preservation of original wood materials on the front of the house and the installation of a fence to screen the property's dumpster.

• Approved siding and trim project at 73 Route 28 (5-0)
• Conditioned approval on preserving wood front and installing dumpster fence (5-0)
• Closed public hearing for HH2025-16 (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:27pm (5-0)

General

The Select Board will consider several contracts for new municipal trucks and executive recruitment services. The board will also discuss a remote work policy and the Town Administrator Screening Committee.

• Contract for new Mack Tractor from Ballard Mack Sales & Service, Inc for $193,731.00
• Contract for new Mack Six Wheeled Dump Truck from Ballard Mack Sales & Service, Inc for $281,654.00
• Contract for new Ford Super Duty F-450 Dump Truck from Colonial Municipal Group for $130,375.23
• Contract for new Ford Super Duty F-350 Service Truck from Colonial Municipal Group for $112,502.39
• Community Preservation Act Agreement with Lower Cape Housing Institute Project for $10,000.00

The Harwich Select Board approved four vehicle purchases totaling $718,262.62, awarded a $12,450 contract to Groux White for executive recruitment services, and approved a $10,000 Community Preservation Act agreement with the Community Development Partnership. The board also appointed Phyllis Thomason to the Community Center Facilities Committee and discussed, but did not vote on, a remote work policy and the Town Administrator Screening Committee composition.

• Approved $193,731 Mack Tractor contract (5-0)
• Approved $281,654 Mack Six Wheeled Dump Truck contract (5-0)
• Approved $130,375.23 Ford F-450 Dump Truck contract (5-0)
• Approved $112,502.39 Ford F-350 Service Truck contract (5-0)
• Awarded $12,450 contract to Groux White for Executive Recruitment Services (5-0)
• Approved $10,000 Community Preservation Act Agreement with Community Development Partnership (5-0)
• Appointed Phyllis Thomason to Community Center Facilities Committee, term to expire June 30, 2028 (5-0)
• Approved minutes from July 21, 2025 (5-0)

Board of Water/Wastewater Commissioners

The Board of Water and Wastewater Commissioners is meeting for a department photo. No other business items are listed on the agenda.

• Department photo

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will review responses regarding a consultant search and feedback from town agencies. The body will also discuss the current Harwich Charter, specifically focusing on the Finance Committee and budget timelines.

• Responses regarding search for consultant
• Responses from town agencies regarding the Charter
• Discussion on Finance Committee
• Discussion on budget timelines

Harwich Energy and Climate Action Committee

The Harwich Energy and Climate Action Committee will review the next steps for pursuing Climate Leader status and discuss a roadmap from Truro. Members will also consider input on a committee charter and receive an update from the Climate Leadership Committee.

• Discussion of next steps for Climate Leader status
• Bring a copy of the Truro roadmap for discussion
• Discuss charter committee request for input
• CLC update

The Harwich Energy and Climate Action Committee approved June minutes and discussed next steps for the Climate Leader Program, including going back to the Select Board and planning community info sessions. They also discussed developing a Harwich climate roadmap similar to Truro's, contacting the acting town administrator about EV charging stations, and providing input to the charter commission. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Approved June minutes
• Planned to return to Select Board to revisit Climate Leader Program
• Discussed community education sessions on Climate Leader Program
• Discussed developing a Harwich climate roadmap similar to Truro's
• Val will contact acting Town Administrator Meggan Eldredge about EV charging stations
• Agreed to add charter commission input to minutes
• No August meeting; next meeting in September

Planning Board

The Harwich Planning Board will hold a public meeting to discuss covenant releases for subdivision lots on Orleans Road and Turtle Run, as well as an Approval Not Required plan to divide land at 246 Queen Anne Rd. The board will also hear a continued public hearing for a 93-space parking lot at 397 Route 28 and receive updates on town planning documents.

• Public Hearing (Continued to Sept 9, 2025): Case #PB2025-09 for a 93-space parking lot and pedestrian path at 397 Route 28.
• Public Meeting: Case #PB2025-18 request for Release of Covenant for Lots 1-7 at #1594-1598 Orleans Road.
• Public Meeting: Case #PB2025-20 request for Release of Covenant for Lot 3 at #16 Turtle Run.
• Public Meeting: Case #PB2025-21 Approval Not Required Plan to divide two lots into three at 246 Queen Anne Rd.
• Town Planner Update regarding the Local Comprehensive Plan, Hazard Mitigation Plan, Open Space and Recreation Plan, and Housing Production Plan.

Harwich Housing Authority

The Harwich Housing Authority will meet to review the financial report for the quarter ending June 30, 2025. The board will also consider approvals for fair housing percentages and Docu-sign signatories for CFAs.

• Financial report for quarter ended 6/30/2025
• Approval of warrant 2025.6
• Approval of Fair Housing percentages
• Approval of signatories for CFAs via Docu-sign

The Harwich Housing Authority Board held a regular meeting on July 22, 2025, and approved several routine items. The board approved the minutes from the June 24, 2025 meeting, the financial report for the quarter ending June 30, 2025, and warrant #2025.6. They also accepted the Executive Director's report for July 2025, approved signatories for CFAs via Docu-Sign, and accepted the Fair Housing percentages for 2025. No public comments were made, and the meeting adjourned at 5:00 p.m.

• Approved minutes of June 24, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved Financial Report for Quarter End 6/30/2025 (unanimous)
• Approved warrant #2025.6 (unanimous)
• Accepted Executive Director's report for July 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved signatories (Elizabeth Harder, Kim Bourgea, Tracy Cannon) for CFAs via Docu-Sign (unanimous)
• Accepted Fair Housing percentages for 2025 (unanimous)

Bikeways Committee

The Bikeways Committee will meet to discuss new business regarding e-bikes and trail conditions. The body will also review progress on the Committee Charter and the placement of 2025 season maps.

• Trail condition
• E-Bikes
• Committee Charter progress
• Trail graffiti follow-up
• Placement of 2025 season maps

Select Board

The Harwich Select Board will hold its regular meeting, starting with an executive session on collective bargaining and minutes. In open session, the board will consider several items including a $500,000 Community Preservation Act agreement for the Cape Cod Rail Trail Land Preservation Project, a $12,450 executive recruitment contract, and a special permit for a one-day liquor license event.

• Vote on $500,000 Community Preservation Act Agreement with Harwich Conservation Trust for Cape Cod Rail Trail Land Preservation Project
• Vote to award $12,450 contract to Groux White for Executive Recruitment Services
• Special permit for one-day entertainment and liquor license for Cape Cod Commercial Fisherman's Alliance event on August 2 at 100 Oak Street
• New Common Victualler's License for Bagel Hound, Inc. at 297 Route 28
• Discussion on sewer easements and possible fall town meeting

The Harwich Select Board approved a letter to the Monomoy Regional School Committee regarding the regional agreement and funding formula, authorized soliciting search consultants for a new Finance Director, and approved a $500,000 Community Preservation Act agreement with Harwich Conservation Trust for the Cape Cod Rail Trail Land Preservation Project. The board also approved a one-day liquor license for a fishermen's event, a new victualler's license for Bagel Hound, and appointed a Brooks Academy Museum Designer Selection Committee. No substantive decisions were made on the Town Administrator Screening Committee or fall Town Meeting, which were discussed and deferred.

• Approved Monomoy Regional School Committee letter (5-0)
• Approved $500,000 CPA agreement with Harwich Conservation Trust (5-0)
• Directed Acting Town Administrator to solicit search consultants for Finance Director (5-0)
• Approved one-day liquor and entertainment license for Cape Cod Commercial Fisherman's Alliance (5-0)
• Approved Common Victualler's License for Bagel Hound (5-0)
• Approved Brooks Academy Museum Designer Selection Committee (5-0)
• Approved appointment of Election Workers (5-0)
• Approved Select Board minutes from July 14, 2025 (5-0)

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will discuss the current Harwich Charter, including the form of government and additional elected positions. The body will also review the status of a consultant search and a letter from the Commonwealth regarding due dates.

• Status of search for consultant
• Request to town agencies for thoughts on Charter
• Discussion on form of government topics
• Discussion on charter compliance
• Discussion on additional elected positions

The Harwich Charter Commission met and approved the minutes from July 10 and June 25. They discussed charter compliance, the role of by-law committees, and whether certain positions should be elected or appointed. No formal votes were taken on these topics, and the commission agreed to draft language for future discussions.

• Approved minutes for July 10, 2025 and Public Hearing June 25, 2025 (6-0)
• Discussed charter compliance and by-law committee roles (no vote)
• Agreed future Charter Compliance Committee members should be elected, not appointed (discussion)
• Discussed additional elected positions and vacancy mechanisms (no vote)

General

The Harwich Recreation & Youth Commission will meet to reorganize its leadership by voting on a chairman, vice chair, and clerk. Members will also vote on a representative to the Community Center Facilities Committee and discuss the commission’s charge. The meeting includes reports on recreation maintenance, property upkeep, and the budget for Fund 1540.

• Commission Reorganization: Vote to appoint Chairman, Vice Chair and Clerk
• Community Center Facilities Committee – Vote to recommend a member representative
• Budget Report (Fund 1540)
• 5-year Project List - Updated
• Policy Discussion

Historic District & Historical Commission

The Historic District and Historical Commission will hold public hearings on five applications for work on buildings over 100 years old. The body will decide on requests ranging from fence installations to full demolitions. The meeting also includes a CPC appointment and briefings on wastewater and library projects.

• Proposed whole demolition of dwelling and barn at 57 Pleasant Street for a new single-family dwelling
• Proposed whole demolition at 297 Route 28 to build a new building meeting flood plain requirements
• Proposed partial demolition for a new addition at 134 Miles Street
• Proposed installation of vinyl siding and aluminum trim at 73 Route 28
• Proposed safety fence installation at 265 Sisson Road

The Harwich Historic District and Historical Commission approved four certificates of appropriateness and notices of intent, including a 12-month demolition delay for a full demolition at 57 Pleasant Street. It also approved a safety fence at 265 Sisson Road, an addition at 134 Miles Street, and a full demolition at 297 Route 28. A hearing for vinyl siding at 73 Route 28 was continued to July 30, 2025.

• Approved safety fence at 265 Sisson Road (5-0)
• Approved partial demolition and addition at 134 Miles Street with conditions (5-0)
• Imposed 12-month demolition delay for 57 Pleasant Street (5-0)
• Approved full demolition at 297 Route 28 with no delay (5-0)
• Continued vinyl siding hearing for 73 Route 28 to July 30, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved minutes for May 21, May 28, and June 18, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved Paul Doane filling CPC vacancy (5-0)

Conservation Commission

The Harwich Conservation Commission will discuss and possibly vote on a town draft revision to the Open Space and Recreation Plan. The meeting also includes public hearings for multiple dock and shoreline projects, a driveway construction request, and a septic-related building addition.

• Louis Lanzillo: Quahog shell/gravel driveway and bluestone walkway at 15 Trinity Cove
• James & Jarmila Sullivan: Dock reconstruction and dredging at 31 Mill Rd & 6 Brora Dr
• Lauren McCabe: Dock reconstruction at 11 Nons Rd
• Silver Shores Cape Cod, LLC: Dock restoration at 0 Snow Inn Road & 69 Snow Inn Road
• Herbert R. Rasnick 2012 Revocable Trust: Building addition and septic work at 8 Cranberry Way

The Harwich Conservation Commission approved a Notice of Intent for a dock restoration at Snow Inn Road and issued Orders of Conditions for projects at River Bend Road and Route 28. The commission also voted to support the town's draft Open Space and Recreation Plan revisions and continued several hearings, including a dock reconstruction and maintenance dredging project, to August and September.

• Approved Request for Determination of Applicability (RDA) with a negative 2 and 3 determination for 15 Trinity Cove (4-0)
• Approved continuance for 31 Mill Rd & 6 Brora Dr dock and dredging project to August 6, 2025 (4-0)
• Approved continuance for 11 Nons Rd dock reconstruction to August 6, 2025 (4-0)
• Approved Notice of Intent for dock restoration at 0 Snow Inn Road & 69 Snow Inn Road with DMF and added conditions (4-0)
• Approved continuance for 8 Cranberry Way building addition and septic project to September 3, 2025 (4-0)
• Approved Order of Conditions for 11 River Bend Rd with noted amendments (4-0)
• Approved Order of Conditions for 2026 Route 28 Head of the Bay Road (4-0)
• Approved support for the town's draft revision of the Open Space and Recreation Plan with provided comments (4-0)

Voter Information Committee

The Voter Information Committee will meet to evaluate successes and opportunities for FY26. The body will also discuss its leadership structure and meeting schedule.

• Review of FY26 successes and opportunities
• Review and reorganization of committee leadership structure
• Determination of meeting cadence and schedule

Council On Aging Board of Directors

The Harwich Council on Aging Board of Directors will meet to consider approval of minutes, discuss a medical rides policy, and review old business including a needs assessment and logo. The agenda also includes a vote to recommend a designee to the Community Center Facilities Committee and a board reorganization.

• Vote required to approve minutes from the June 18, 2025 COA Board of Directors Meeting
• Discussion and vote to recommend a designee to the Community Center Facilities Committee
• Discussion of a medical rides policy
• Old business updates on a needs assessment and logo
• Director's report on current operations and volunteer recruitment

Board of Health

The Harwich Board of Health will hold a regular meeting on July 15, 2025, with votes on a variance request for a dog-friendly space at 545 Route 28, a reconsideration of variance conditions at 18 Bank Street, and a proposed amendment to remove abutter notification for outdoor dog-friendly spaces. The board will also hear a presentation on the Harwich Community Vaccination Plan, review new licenses, and discuss sewer connection waivers and the sewer use rule.

• Variance request for dog-friendly space at 545 Route 28 (continued from June 17, 2025)
• Reconsideration of variance conditions at 18 Bank Street for increased habitable square footage
• Proposed amendment to remove abutter notification for outdoor dog-friendly space variances
• New licenses for food events and utility installers (e.g., Sweet & Sourdough LLC, DanDel Construction Inc)
• Discussion on Phase 3A sewer connection waivers and sewer use 660 rule

The Board of Health reorganized its leadership, electing Kevin DuPont as Chair, Ronald Dowgiallo as Vice-Chair, and Pamela Howell as Clerk. Members approved a variance request for 18 Bank Street to increase habitable square footage and voted to extend existing sewer connection waiver guidelines to Phase 3 and 3A projects.

• Elected Kevin DuPont as Chair (4-0-0)
• Elected Ronald Dowgiallo as Vice-Chair (4-0-0)
• Elected Pamela Howell as Clerk (4-0-0)
• Approved variance for 18 Bank Street (4-0-0)
• Tabled dog-friendly space variance for 545 Route 28 (no vote)
• Tabled dog-friendly space notification amendment (3-0-0)
• Approved various event and utility installer permits (4-0-0)
• Applied Phase 2 sewer connection waivers to Phase 3 and 3A (4-0-0)

Golf Committee

The Harwich Golf Committee will meet to discuss youth player development at CV Golf Course and review bunker plans. The committee will also consider approving June meeting minutes and elect new officers.

• Review of bunker plans for CV Golf Course
• Discussion of youth player development initiatives
• Election of Golf Committee officers

Board of Water/Wastewater Commissioners

The Harwich Board of Water/Wastewater Commissioners is meeting to discuss and potentially act on several items, including the FY26 capital plans for water and wastewater, a $11K contract with Apex for asset management, and updated sewer regulations for grinder pumps. They will also receive updates on the Route 28 East Main Water Replacement Project and other ongoing business. The meeting includes public comment and a consent agenda for approving minutes.

• FY26 Capital Plan Water
• FY26 Capital Plan Wastewater
• Apex Contract $11K – 2026 Project Evaluation Form for Asset Management State Revolving Fund Program
• Updated Sewer Regulations for Grinder Pumps
• Route 28 East Main Water Replacement Project update

The Board denied an abatement request for 21 Alder Ln (5-0), approved contracts with Apex and Waterworks Consulting LLC (both 5-0), and voted to reconnect the Exchange Park Fountain (5-0). They also reviewed capital plans and discussed updates on the Route 28 project and sewer regulations.

• Denied abatement request for 21 Alder Ln (5-0)
• Approved Apex Contract $11k for Asset Management Grant (5-0)
• Approved Waterworks Consulting LLC General Engineering Services contract (5-0)
• Approved reconnection of Exchange Park Fountain (5-0)

General

The Harwich Select Board will hold an executive session on collective bargaining, then interview candidates for interim town administrator and a consultant. They will also discuss liquor license violations, sewer funding, and housing proposals.

• Interview Tony Schiavi for Interim Town Administrator
• Public hearing on liquor license violation at Perks Coffee Shop & Beer Garden, 545 Route 28
• Special permit for one-day liquor license for Harwich Cranberry Festival, Sept 13-14 at 100 Oak Street
• Possible resubmission of Route 28 Sewer Project for 2026 State Revolving Fund
• Approve MOA with SHINE Program

The Select Board voted 4-1 to offer Tony Schiavi the position of Interim Town Administrator and enter contract negotiations, with Member Handler opposed. The board also approved several routine items, including committee appointments, a hearing officer for a liquor license violation, and a letter to the Monomoy Regional School Committee requesting review of the regional agreement. No action was taken in executive session.

• Offered Interim Town Administrator position to Tony Schiavi (4-1)
• Appointed Meggan Eldredge as hearing officer for liquor license violation at Perks Coffee Shop & Beer Garden (5-0)
• Approved letter to Monomoy Regional School Committee requesting review of regional agreement (5-0)
• Resubmitted Route 28 Sewer Project for 2026 State Revolving Fund (5-0)
• Approved change of manager for Belmont Condominium Beach Club (5-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for Harwich Cranberry Festival (5-0)
• Reappointed Elizabeth Harder to Housing Committee (3-2)
• Approved resignation of Francis Crowley from Recreation and Youth Commission (5-0)

Real Estate and Open Space Committee

The Real Estate and Open Space Committee will meet to discuss land protection and committee organization. The session includes a presentation on state constitutional conservation laws and a review of Select Board parcels.

• Presentation on Article 97 of the Massachusetts Constitution by Mark Robinson
• Committee reorganization for FY2026
• Review of Select Board parcels for additional protection

The committee reorganized its leadership for the 2026 fiscal year and reviewed the status of town-owned parcels currently under the direction of the Select Board. Members also discussed potential funding sources for property research and received a presentation regarding Article 97 of the Massachusetts Constitution.

• Approved June 20, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Elected David Callaghan as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Kathy Green as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Carol Porter as Clerk (unanimous)
• Appointed Kathy Green as CPC representative (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:13 A.M. (unanimous)

Charter Commission

The Harwich Charter Commission will meet to discuss ongoing work, including the status of the recording secretary position and the search for a consultant. Members may also request input from town agencies on the Charter and review topics related to the form of government in the current Harwich Charter.

• Status update on recording secretary position
• Status update on consultant search
• Possible request for input from town agencies on Charter
• Discussion on form of government topics in current Harwich Charter

The Harwich Charter Commission unanimously approved sending a request for proposals to consultant groups, authorized the treasurer to sign the board secretary's pay slips, and reached consensus on key charter recommendations: continuing with an open Town Meeting, maintaining a part-time Select Board, and increasing the Select Board to seven members. The commission also set a September 8, 2025 deadline for town agencies to provide input on the charter.

• Approved minutes of July 1, 2025 with corrections (9-0)
• Authorized Jon Chorey to sign Judi Moldstad's pay slips (9-0)
• Approved sending consultant request letters to MRI, Collins Center, Charlie Sumner, Bill Henchy, and Rick White, with amendments (9-0)
• Consensus to continue with open Town Meeting
• Consensus to maintain part-time Select Board
• Consensus to increase Select Board members to seven

Finance Committee

The Harwich Finance Committee is meeting to discuss and comment on matters for the Charter Commission, consider a potential joint meeting with the Select Board and Capital Outlay Committee, and set its own priorities. The agenda also includes approving minutes from the July 10 meeting and reviewing the list of committee liaisons. No votes on specific financial items are listed.

• Discussion and comments for the Charter Commission
• Potential joint meeting with the Select Board and Capital Outlay
• Finance Committee Priorities
• List of Finance Committee Liaisons
• Approve minutes of July 10, 2025

The Finance Committee approved year-end budget transfer requests totaling $832,921.98, all within budget categories, by a 7-0 roll call vote. It also voted 6-1 to send a concept for attracting public safety personnel to the Select Board after revisions, and appointed liaisons to the Capital Outlay Committee. The committee reorganized its leadership, appointing a new chair, vice chair, and clerk.

• Approved $832,921.98 in year-end budget transfers (7-0)
• Voted to send revised public safety personnel concept to Select Board (6-1)
• Appointed Michele Gallucci and Scott Norum as Capital Outlay Committee liaisons (7-0)
• Appointed Bob MacCready as Finance Committee Chair (6-0)
• Appointed Scott Norum as Finance Committee Vice Chair (6-0)
• Appointed Dana DeCosta as Finance Committee Clerk (6-0)

Cemetery Commission

The Harwich Cemetery Commission meets to discuss old-business items including relocating cemetery entrance signs to Peace Avenue, reviewing a fence at the Harding Ryder gravesite, and approving a $19,500 gravestone preservation payment. New business includes deeds for two graves totaling $4,500 and routine bill payments.

• Relocate Evergreen Cemetery sign to Peace Avenue entrance
• Approve $19,500 payment to South Harwich Gravestone Preservation (John Fougere)
• Approve deeds for graves at Evergreen Cemetery ($4,000) and Island Pond ($500)
• Review fence installation at Harding Ryder gravesite
• Review FY25 Cemetery Revolving Account, Trust, and Budget

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Harwich Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing and discussion regarding a comprehensive permit application for the Pine Oaks Village Homes project. The agenda focuses on presentations, peer reviews, and public comments concerning a Traffic and Public Safety report for the proposed 242 rental units.

• Case No. 2025-21 application by Queen Anne Acres LLC and Mid Cape Church Homes, Inc. for 242 rental units (5 corridor buildings and 5 townhouse buildings) at multiple parcels on Queen Anne Rd, Annasis Rd, and Main St
• Traffic and Public Safety Study presentation by Pine Oaks Village IV
• Traffic and Public Safety Peer Review presentation by VHB
• Public Comments scheduled from approximately 8:20pm to 9:20pm
• Discussion and Vote to Continue the Public Hearing

The Harwich Zoning Board of Appeals voted unanimously to continue the public hearing for the Pine Oaks Village IV comprehensive permit application to August 6, 2025. The board heard extensive public comment, mostly in opposition, and discussed traffic and safety concerns. No final decision was made on the 242-unit project.

• Continued Case No. 2025-21 (Pine Oaks Village IV) to Aug. 6 hearing (7-0)
• Adjusted agenda to hear public comment first (7-0)

Harwich Energy and Climate Action Committee

The committee will meet to discuss next steps for achieving Climate Leader status. The agenda includes a review of the Truro roadmap and an update from the CLC.

• Discussion of next steps for Climate Leader status
• Discussion of the Truro roadmap
• CLC update

Planning Board

The Harwich Planning Board will hold a continued public hearing on a special permit application for a 28-unit multifamily structure at 606 Route 28, including site plan review and parking reconfiguration. The board will also receive updates on the Local Comprehensive Plan and the Pine Oaks Village IV project. An executive session is scheduled to discuss pending litigation.

• Continued public hearing for PB2025-11 (SS HPORT LLC) for 28-unit multifamily project at 606 Route 28
• Multifamily Special Permit and Site Plan Review Special Permit with waivers requested
• Local Comprehensive Plan Update discussion
• Pine Oaks Village IV Update
• Executive session to discuss litigation (Wise v. Town of Harwich Planning Board) under G.L. c.30A, §21(a)(3)

The Harwich Planning Board voted unanimously to continue the public hearing for Case PB2025-11, a proposed 28-unit multifamily condominium at 606 Route 28, to August 26, 2025. The board also unanimously approved a letter of endorsement for the Harwich Open Space and Recreation Plan. No final decision was made on the special permit.

• Continued public hearing for 28-unit condo at 606 Route 28 to Aug. 26, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved letter of endorsement for Harwich Open Space and Recreation Plan (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review sales reports, reassessment updates, and Town Meeting articles. The agenda includes a discussion on topographies on Long Pond Rd and an executive session regarding exemptions and abatements.

• Town Meeting Articles
• Topographies on Long Pond Rd
• DOR Reevaluation update
• Sales Reports for April and May
• Executive Session on Exemptions and Abatements

The Board of Assessors re-elected Richard Waystack as Chairman and Bruce Nightingale as Vice Chairman by unanimous votes. It also voted to drop miscellaneous parcels via the 8 of 58 process for tax title, per DOR guidance. No updates were reported for SHI list or reassessments. The board approved the June 9, 2025 minutes but withheld executive session minutes.

• Re-elected Richard Waystack as Chairman (unanimous)
• Re-elected Bruce Nightingale as Vice Chairman (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of 6/9/2025, excluding executive minutes
• Voted to drop misc. parcels via 8 of 58 process for tax title

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to discuss and potentially vote on a leadership appointment. The primary item is the appointment of the Assistant Town Administrator as Interim Acting Town Administrator.

• Possible vote to appoint Assistant Town Administrator as Interim Acting Town Administrator

General

The Harwich Select Board Interview Committee is meeting to interview candidates for appointments to the Golf Committee, Cultural Council, and Council on Aging, Community Center Facilities and Recreation and Youth. The agenda includes three scheduled interviews and a discussion of interview/appointment procedures. This is a routine administrative meeting focused on filling volunteer positions.

• Interview Russell Couturier for Golf Committee at 9:00 a.m.
• Interview Darlene Mahoney for Cultural Council at 9:15 a.m.
• Interview Jenny Anderson for Council on Aging, Community Center Facilities and Recreation and Youth at 9:30 a.m.
• Discussion of interview/appointment procedures

Harwich Affordable Housing Trust

The Harwich Affordable Housing Trust will meet to review documents, discuss a letter supporting the Penrose housing application, and evaluate processes for small projects like Local Action Units (LAU) 40B and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU). The board will also review the Subsidized Housing Inventory list and consider an application for funds for the 5 Bells Neck Building 2.

• Discussion and possible vote on letter in support of Penrose application
• Review Local Action Units (LAU) 40B and Local Initiative Program (LIP) process for small projects
• Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) discussion
• Subsidized Housing Inventory (SHI) list review
• Application for Funds 5 Bells Neck Bldg. 2

The Harwich Affordable Housing Trust voted to ask town administration for advice on developing RFPs for properties at 0 Oak Street and 0 Depot Street, both votes carried 4-0. The board also approved the June 11, 2025 minutes (3-0-1) and tabled items on 0 Depot Road and 456 Queen Anne Road. Discussions on ADU affordability and homeownership partnerships were held without formal decisions.

• Approved June 11, 2025 minutes (3-0-1, Handler abstained)
• Approved motion to ask Administration for advice on RFP for 0 Oak Street (4-0)
• Approved motion to ask Administration for advice on RFP for 0 Depot Street (4-0)
• Tabled agenda item for 0 Depot Road (J1, J2, J3) (4-0)
• Tabled update on 456 Queen Anne Road until next meeting

Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will meet to review staff reports and vote on accepting donations. The meeting includes an executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy regarding the Harwich Employees Association.

• Vote to accept donations
• Executive session regarding Harwich Employees Association collective bargaining
• Review of FY25 utility budget overages totaling $11,087
• Discussion on release of executive session minutes from March 2024 through May 2025
• Report on $2,970 in Friends-funded summer performers

The Brooks Free Library Board of Trustees met on July 2, 2025, and approved the June 4, 2025 minutes unanimously. No public comment was made. The board discussed purchasing a new staff room refrigerator, potential painting of the building, and noted an upcoming community engagement meeting on the draft Local Comprehensive Plan. No formal decisions were made on these items.

• Approved June 4, 2025 regular session minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned to executive session and not return to public session (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Harwich Conservation Commission meets to discuss and potentially vote on several property applications, including new garage construction, dock repairs, and invasive plant management. The agenda also includes a discussion on the Town's draft revision of the Open Space and Recreation Plan.

• Discussion and possible vote on the Town's draft revision to the Open Space and Recreation Plan
• Peter & Kathryn Margotta, 31 Bassetts Lane: Construction of a new garage attached to the existing dwelling
• Louis Lanzillo, 15 Trinity Cove: Quahog shell/gravel driveway, bluestone walkway, landscape plantings, irrigation repair, and lawn excavation
• Jeffrey Lang, 11 River Bend Rd: House demolition and rebuilding, septic system installation, bulkhead repairs and replacement, and mitigation plantings
• James & Jarmila Sullivan, 31 Mill Rd & 6 Brora Dr: Reconstruction of existing joint use dock and maintenance dredging (requested continuance to July 16, 2025)

The Harwich Conservation Commission approved a negative 3 determination for a new garage at 31 Bassetts Lane, approved a Notice of Intent for house demolition/rebuilding at 11 River Bend Rd, and approved a Notice of Intent for invasive plant management at 2026 Route 28. The Commission continued hearings on four other projects to the July 16, 2025 meeting, including the Open Space and Recreation Plan discussion, and approved the Order of Conditions for 19 Wequasset Rd and the June 18, 2025 minutes.

• Approved RDA for new garage at 31 Bassetts Lane with negative 3 determination and $480 in-lieu fee (5-0)
• Approved NOI for house demolition/rebuilding at 11 River Bend Rd with conditions (5-0)
• Approved NOI for invasive plant management at 2026 Route 28 contingent on revised plan (5-0)
• Continued Open Space and Recreation Plan discussion to July 16 (5-0)
• Continued hearing for driveway/landscaping at 15 Trinity Cove to July 16 (5-0)
• Continued hearing for dock reconstruction at 31 Mill Rd & 6 Brora Dr to July 16 (5-0)
• Continued hearing for dock reconstruction at 11 Nons Rd to July 16 (5-0)
• Continued hearing for dock restoration at 0 & 69 Snow Inn Rd to July 16 (5-0)

Charter Commission

The Harwich Charter Commission is meeting to continue its work on reviewing the town charter. They will discuss the status of hiring a consultant, review feedback from a recent public hearing, and conduct a general review of the current charter. The meeting is primarily discussion and possible votes on these topics.

• Discussion on status of recording secretary
• Discussion on search for consultant and expected skill set
• Discussion on Public Hearing held on June 25
• General review and discussion on current Harwich Charter

Local Planning Committee

The Harwich Local Planning Committee will convene to approve June 3, 2025 meeting minutes and discuss a planning text addendum to the Local Comprehensive Plan. The committee will also receive an update on future meeting dates and a global review of the Local Comprehensive Plan.

• Review and approve June 3, 2025 meeting minutes
• Planning Board Chair Duncan Berry to discuss planning text addendum to Local Comprehensive Plan
• Global review of Local Comprehensive Plan