Swampscott Select Board Meeting Review - August 3, 2022

Section 1: Agenda

Based on the transcript, the likely agenda items discussed were (listed in order of discussion):

1. Early Voting Location and Schedule Designation 0:00:23
   • Presentation by Town Clerk on Votes Act changes and proposed early voting schedules/costs.
   • Discussion and Board vote on required police detail staffing for elections.
   • Non-binding Board motion expressing preference for expanded early voting hours (Option 3).
2. Veteran’s Crossing Lease 0:12:16
   • Presentation by Town Administrator on the need for a one-year lease extension and the Chapter 30B requirement for a future RFP.
   • Remarks by VFW Commander Patrick Burke.
   • Board discussion on RFP timeline and lease terms (including historical context and potential for longer leases).
   • Vote to approve the one-year lease extension.
3. Hadley/Blaney School Traffic Plan 0:28:16
   • Presentation by Town Administrator recommending delegation of traffic management authority to the Police Chief.
   • Board discussion and motion to delegate authority.
   • Presentation by Police Chief Quesada and Captain Cable on the traffic plan, safety measures, crossing guards, and community engagement.
   • Input from Superintendent Angelakis clarifying plan adjustments based on resident feedback (King Street).
   • Board questions regarding specific logistics (parent parking, crossing guard staffing, communication).
   • Public comments from residents on King Street and Reddington Street regarding safety, parking, historical context, DPW role (snow removal), and potential use of church parking.
   • Vote to delegate traffic management authority to the Police Chief for the duration of the Blaney School use.
4. Public Safety Discussion: Traffic, Parking, Wildlife, and Police Department Update 1:11:39
   • Presentation by Police Chief Quesada on police calls for service trends, top call categories, organizational chart/staffing levels (vacancies, conditional hires), traffic citation statistics, parking enforcement, and grant funding (presented by Lt. Hennessey).
   • Board discussion on parking enforcement communication/education, Clark School traffic, pedestrian safety priorities (Humphrey St/Monument Ave), department staffing levels, budget constraints (overtime), data analysis initiatives, and community engagement efforts.
   • Extended discussion regarding police union comments from a previous meeting about staffing levels (“grossly negligent”) and the hiring process.
   • Discussion on coyote sightings and management efforts, including a potential wildlife feeding bylaw presentation by the Town Administrator.
5. Installation of No Parking Signs at the Machon Property 2:07:30
   • Motion and vote to approve the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee recommendation for no parking signs along the property frontage on Burpee Road.
6. Consent Agenda Approval 2:08:06
   • Review of consent agenda items (Hawking & Peddling permit, One Day Liquor License, Meeting Minutes).
   • Removal of July 20, 2022, minutes for clarification/correction.
   • Vote to approve the amended consent agenda.
7. Town Administrator’s Report 2:11:16
   • Updates on interim assessor appointment, elementary school demolition, board/committee vacancies, veterans stakeholder meetings (van idea), town newsletter, rodent control (smart boxes), summer recreation programs.
   • Discussion on ARPA survey rollout and newsletter outreach strategies (mailings, welcome packets).
8. Public Comments 2:20:14
   • Comments from Danielle Leonard regarding ARPA fund allocation process/criteria and the tone/dynamics of Board interactions, particularly concerning the police department/union relationship.
9. Select Board Time 2:27:33
   • Reading of an email from resident Karen Bonner thanking the board.
   • Updates from Member Fletcher on CIC and Solid Waste Committee meetings.
   • Motion and vote to adjourn.

Section 2: Speaking Attendees

• Police Chief Ruben Quesada: [Speaker 1]
• Neal Duffy (Select Board Member): [Speaker 2]
• Sean Fitzgerald (Town Administrator): [Speaker 3]
• MaryEllen Fletcher (Select Board Member): [Speaker 4]
• David Eppley (Select Board Chair): [Speaker 5], [Speaker 21]
• Jared LaLiberté (Town Clerk): [Speaker 6]
• Danielle Leonard (Resident/Town Meeting Member): [Speaker 7]
• Police Captain Joe Cable: [Speaker 8]
• Pamela Angelakis (Superintendent of Schools): [Speaker 9]
• Katie Phelan (Select Board Member): [Speaker 10], [Speaker 20] (seconding motion at 2:11:11), [Speaker 22]
• Police Lieutenant Tom Hennessey: [Speaker 11], [Speaker 17]
• Patrick Burke (VFW Commander): [Speaker 12]
• Chris Bellumer (Resident): [Speaker 13]
• Mark Morrison (Resident): [Speaker 14]
• Dean Satch (Resident): [Speaker 15]
• Prudence Sinclair (Resident): [Speaker 16]
• Don Hause (Select Board Member): [Speaker 18], [Speaker 19] (seconding motion at 23:58, ARPA question at 2:14:59)
• Diane Gauthier (Executive Assistant): [Speaker 19] (tech apology at 1:32), [Speaker 20] (minutes clarification at 2:09:04)

Section 3: Meeting Minutes

Call to Order & Agenda Reordering: Chairperson Eppley called the meeting to order. The Board agreed to take agenda items out of order, starting with Early Voting Designation and the Veterans Crossing Lease 0:00:23.

Early Voting Designation: 0:00:40 Town Clerk Jared LaLiberté presented information on changes mandated by the new state VOTES Act, including voter registration deadlines, early voting by mail procedures, and requirements for in-person early voting hours for state/federal elections. He outlined three potential schedules for early voting hours for the upcoming September primary, detailing staffing costs based on $15/hour poll workers 0:04:25. Schedule 2 (alternating extended weeknights plus Saturday hours) was noted as preferred by the Clerk’s office for maximizing accessibility while being cost-conscious 0:05:20. Mr. LaLiberté noted the state has reimbursed costs in the past but is budgeting assuming no reimbursement currently 0:07:16. Member Duffy inquired about applying early voting requirements to local elections, which Mr. LaLiberté stated is currently at town discretion but agreed to research codifying it via bylaw 0:09:13. The primary action required was approval of police detail staffing. Town Administrator Fitzgerald read the required motion language 0:09:49. Before the required vote, Member Duffy motioned, seconded by Member Phelan, to express non-binding support for Option 3 (most hours) for early voting, urging the Board of Registrars not to be constrained by minor budget differences 0:10:56. The motion passed unanimously (Aye: Eppley, Duffy, Fletcher, Phelan, Hause) 0:11:39. Member Hause then moved, seconded by Member Phelan, to approve the required language authorizing sufficient police presence at polling locations per state law 0:11:42. The motion passed unanimously (Aye: Eppley, Duffy, Fletcher, Phelan, Hause) 0:12:08.

Veteran’s Crossing Lease: 0:12:16 Town Administrator Fitzgerald explained that due to the previous lease lapsing during COVID, Chapter 30B procurement law requires an RFP process for a long-term lease, though it can be tailored for veterans’ groups 0:12:28. Town Counsel confirmed a one-year extension is permissible while the RFP is developed 0:13:08. Mr. Fitzgerald highlighted new revenue streams (cannabis host agreement, Town Meeting appropriation) supporting the VFW 0:13:41. He introduced VFW Commander Patrick Burke. Commander Burke thanked the Board and TA Fitzgerald for their work, emphasizing collaboration among veteran groups (VFW, DAV, American Legion, Marine Corps League) at the location and looking forward to securing a long-term lease 0:14:43. He noted the positive working relationship established 0:15:07. TA Fitzgerald and Chair Eppley praised Commander Burke’s leadership and the successful recent veterans concert and fireworks event [0:16:04, 0:16:38]. Member Fletcher inquired about the RFP timeline; TA Fitzgerald estimated drafting by KP Law within two weeks and release in September 0:17:06. Member Duffy confirmed the Board would vote on the RFP release 0:17:28. Mr. Fitzgerald noted recent productive meetings with stakeholders and the need for Board input on the RFP 0:17:31. Member Duffy stressed the urgency of the RFP process, suggesting a target for the first reading at the first September meeting (Sept 7th) 0:18:45. TA Fitzgerald acknowledged the request 0:24:10. Member Fletcher asked about the history, referencing a past land swap. Commander Burke explained the 1995 agreement where the VFW exchanged land for the promise of the current parcel, which fell through, resulting in a 25-year lease instead 0:19:42. Member Fletcher asked about options like a 99-year lease 0:20:48. Member Duffy noted Select Board authority limitations (typically 25 years without Town Meeting) and conflicting past advice from Town Counsel 0:20:59. TA Fitzgerald stated Town Counsel advised the RFP route as the safest way to comply with 30B and secure a 25-year lease, citing challenges faced by other nonprofits with municipal property 0:21:25. He committed to getting a detailed opinion on why a 99-year lease isn’t feasible 0:22:10. Mr. Fitzgerald also mentioned ongoing building assessments and capital planning for the VFW building 0:22:25. Member Duffy moved, seconded by Member Hause, to authorize the one-year lease extension, terminating August 2, 2023 0:23:25. Before the vote, Member Duffy gave credit to former Select Board member David Grishman for his persistence on this issue 0:24:15. The motion passed unanimously (Aye: Eppley, Duffy, Fletcher, Phelan, Hause) 0:24:41. The lease was signed by the Board and VFW representatives present 0:24:46.

Hadley/Blaney School Traffic Plan: 0:28:16 TA Fitzgerald introduced the item, emphasizing the complexity of neighborhood traffic and the need for flexibility, recommending delegation of day-to-day traffic management to Police Chief Quesada 0:28:30. Member Duffy expressed support for delegating to the Chief due to the complexity and paramount importance of safety, wanting the Chief to focus on substance rather than justifying his authority 0:29:52. Chair Eppley read the formal motion to delegate authority to the Chief to implement a temporary traffic safety plan (including parking/rerouting on specific streets) until the new school opens 0:31:06. Member Phelan questioned whether traffic patterns would automatically revert upon the new school’s opening 0:31:43. TA Fitzgerald clarified the delegation ends, and the Board regains authority; any specific reversions would require Board action if not already done by the Chief 0:31:53. Chief Quesada indicated he wouldn’t want the temporary measures longer than necessary 0:33:04. TA Fitzgerald reiterated the importance of pedestrian safety in the densely populated town 0:33:08. The Board decided to hold the vote until after the presentation 0:34:18. Police Chief Ruben Quesada introduced his command staff present (Capt. Cable, Lt. Hennessey, Lt. Fraylor) and framed the traffic plan as encompassing his priorities of communication, safety, and engagement 0:34:41. He committed to a strong police presence before and during the school opening 0:36:20. Captain Joe Cable elaborated on the plan 0:37:35. He noted coordination with the school, Traffic Safety Advisory Committee, public input, and fire department. Five crossing guard positions are planned (redeploying two from Stanley), though not all are filled yet 0:38:15. Capt. Cable stated the department is committed to mitigating neighborhood impact and working with residents. He confirmed the necessity of discussed engineering changes (e.g., Reddington St.) despite concerns, and acknowledged the need to minimize parking removal impacts on Humphrey St businesses 0:39:38. Member Phelan asked about backup if crossing guard positions remain unfilled (school staff, police redeployment) 0:41:02 and where parents who walk children in (not rolling drop-off) should park 0:41:45. Capt. Cable acknowledged this parking need hadn’t been fully considered but mentioned potential use of the Hawthorne lot (pending acquisition details) and committed to looking into it further 0:42:21. Member Fletcher asked if the Chief/Captain were aware of numerous emails and a petition from King Street residents 0:43:21. Capt. Cable confirmed awareness of the issues (one-way direction change, winter safety concerns) and stated they were under active discussion following recent resident input meetings 0:43:41. Member Duffy, noting his role on the School Building Committee, suggested the Superintendent and traffic engineer (GPI) might have more detail and urged ongoing coordination between the Police, Schools, and GPI 0:45:01. Superintendent Pamela Angelakis joined remotely 0:46:49. She reported progress hiring crossing guards 0:46:49. She confirmed King Street residents’ concerns were heard at a recent meeting, GPI conducted a site visit, and the plan was updated to keep King Street one-way away from Reddington as it currently operates, alleviating the main safety concerns 0:47:59. She acknowledged a failure to communicate this update back to the residents promptly likely prompted the petition 0:48:50. She mentioned upcoming PTO meetings for further communication and noted a school bus route serving 68 students is planned 0:50:09. Member Duffy emphasized coordinating communications about parking options (e.g., Capt. Cable’s Hawthorne suggestion) to ensure accuracy 0:51:51. He requested a commitment for strong police presence during the first few weeks of school for safety and on-the-fly adjustments, citing the positive impact of professional presence during the middle school traffic pattern change 0:52:26. Chief Quesada affirmed the commitment, seeing it as a community engagement opportunity 0:54:03. Member Duffy also raised concerns about Humphrey Street parking enforcement and the need for a holistic review, noting longstanding business concerns and the traffic plan’s intent to discourage parking/crossing from the non-school side 0:55:19. Chief Quesada agreed 0:57:08. Member Phelan asked two practical questions for future consideration: managing drop-off for families with children in different grades (K vs. older) and ensuring adequate handicap parking accessibility 0:57:17. Chief Quesada confirmed handicap parking would be addressed 0:57:50. Public Comment on Traffic Plan:

• Dean Satch (King St resident) asked if the town had approached St. John’s church about using their parking lot 0:58:40. Member Duffy recounted past unsuccessful attempts but noted ongoing talks with the owner of Anthony’s Hawthorne regarding temporary use of their lot 0:59:31. TA Fitzgerald confirmed talks with Mr. Athanas were promising and agreed to reach out to the church again 1:01:14.
• Prudence Sinclair (King St resident) thanked the Board and Superintendent for hearing their concerns and making changes to the King St plan, presenting a copy of their petition to the police 1:01:43. Member Phelan thanked the residents for participating 1:02:29.
• Chris Bellumer (Reddington St resident) stressed the critical importance of DPW execution regarding snow removal, salting, and sidewalk clearing for safety, given the increased traffic volume on treacherous streets 1:02:51. TA Fitzgerald acknowledged the critical DPW role, ongoing conversations, the town’s sidewalk shoveling ordinance, and the need for continuous feedback and adaptation 1:05:42. He noted DPW was on site recently assessing conditions 1:07:45.
• Mark Morrison (King St resident, safety engineer) commended the decision to revise the King St plan. He advised that any approach to the church for parking use should include assurances regarding liability protection for the church 1:08:48. Capt. Cable provided contact points for ongoing public communication (SRO Wilson, Officer Lloyd, himself) 1:10:56. The Board then voted on the earlier motion to delegate traffic authority to the Police Chief. The motion passed unanimously (Aye: Eppley, Duffy, Fletcher, Phelan, Hause) 1:11:39.

Public Safety Discussion (Traffic, Parking, Wildlife, Police Dept Update): 1:11:39 Chief Quesada presented an update 1:12:28. He thanked Capt. Cable and Angelica Noble (admin staff) for assistance. He showed data on calls for service (decreased during pandemic, currently ~10k year-to-date Jan-Jun), top 10 call categories (dominated by area checks, building checks, traffic enforcement, MV stops), and parking enforcement (park & walks noted as 9% of top calls) 1:13:28. He reviewed the organizational chart: authorized strength 32, 2 patrol vacancies, 2 conditional hires (one in academy, one pending tests/academy slot), and 1 candidate remaining on current hiring list 1:16:41. He provided context on the ~9-month timeline for new hires to be patrol-ready 1:17:44. He presented traffic enforcement stats (776 citations Jan-Jun, top violations: speeding, crosswalk) and parking stats (281 parking tickets issued this summer) 1:18:51. Lt. Tom Hennessey discussed the Municipal Road Safety grant program 1:20:59. He detailed successful competitive grant applications ($19k in FY21, $27k in FY22 including funds for OUI drug training, applied for $29k for FY23 including enforcement, training, pedestrian safety, community engagement). He noted ~$7k currently available for pedestrian safety enforcement 1:22:18. Member Phelan asked about clearer communication/education on parking rules (recreational vs. residential) given the number of tickets 1:23:59 and requested focus on traffic issues around the Clark School 1:24:29. Lt. Hennessey noted Humphrey St and Essex St are enforcement priorities, and Paradise/Norfolk area will also receive focus 1:25:09. Member Fletcher thanked Lt. Hennessey for securing grant funds 1:25:45. TA Fitzgerald asked about the percentage of warnings vs. citations; Lt. Hennessey stated the vast majority are warnings, emphasizing an educational approach first 1:26:07. Chair Eppley asked about illegal parking enforcement on Paradise Road near the Clark School/DPW 1:27:51. Lt. Hennessey clarified that while it’s a state highway (Route 1A) with no parking, dispensation is given near the trauma center due to lack of parking, but parking is prohibited beyond that 1:28:36. Member Duffy raised significant concerns about pedestrian safety, specifically the lack of improvement at the Monument Ave/Humphrey St crosswalk over the past year despite prior discussions and funding for beacons 1:29:16. He noted parking too close to crosswalks remains a town-wide issue 1:30:08. He urged an intensive focus and action, suggesting Swampscott should aim for a reputation where drivers instinctively slow down upon entering town 1:31:05. Chief Quesada agreed, acknowledging the need for awareness campaigns potentially coupled with periods of stricter enforcement (“zero tolerance”) while balancing discretion 1:33:20. Member Duffy then addressed comments made by the police union president at the previous meeting (which Duffy and Quesada missed) 1:34:24. He quoted the union statement that the department was “grossly understaffed” to the point of “gross negligence” regarding town safety 1:34:50. He asked Chief Quesada if he agreed. Chief Quesada stated mutual respect exists with the union president but disagreed with the “grossly negligent” characterization [1:35:11, 1:37:28]. He acknowledged staffing challenges (vacancies, extended leaves) impacting officer workload and morale, but affirmed the department is able to answer calls for service and maintain safety 1:35:40. He noted he is still assessing staffing needs based on data and future goals (e.g., dedicated traffic/community officers) and may request more officers later with data justification 1:37:49. Member Duffy expressed concern about such statements going unanswered and urged better internal dialogue to avoid public conflict, referencing Swampscott’s historically high per-capita police spending relative to state averages 1:38:49. He also questioned the union statement implying the Chief had fully endorsed specific candidates on the hiring list, asking if the Chief had met them 1:40:40. Chief Quesada confirmed he had reviewed files and deemed them viable based on experience but had not personally met or interviewed them before presenting them as options after taking office 1:41:16. Member Fletcher echoed concerns about the public airing of union/management disagreements 1:42:16. She clarified a point about a past financial forum report on police costs, noting it didn’t factor in the department’s then-seniority structure 1:42:29. She asked about the Chief’s HR experience (confirmed 2 years) and the definition of “viable candidate” 1:43:33. She reviewed the timeline for the four unfilled positions becoming active patrol officers (Spring ‘23, Summer ‘23, later for the two current vacancies) 1:44:21 and inquired about potential retirements (1 sergeant rescinded, 2 lieutenants eligible next year, 2 potential patrol retirements) 1:45:40. She expressed her opinion that the department seemed “seriously understaffed” on the streets and hoped for resolution 1:47:17. She also questioned the feasibility of staying within the reduced FY23 overtime budget ($365k vs. $415k in FY22) given staffing levels 1:48:23. Chief Quesada acknowledged the lack of flexibility requires overtime when staff are out (sick/training) 1:49:24. He explained he is currently analyzing the impact of running shifts with four officers instead of the typical five (done ~65 times already this year) over a 90-day period, using data analytics (with help from a Rutgers professor) to determine optimal staffing levels per shift/day/hour 1:49:58. He stressed the need to evolve beyond past practices and affirmed public safety is paramount, committing to present data-backed requests if more staff are needed 1:51:20. He estimated findings from the 90-day analysis (started mid-July) would be available around mid-October 1:53:05. He noted limitations with current data collection software hinder detailed analysis 1:53:40. He briefly reviewed mandatory training hours (~1240 total hrs/year), highlighting how this impacts staffing flexibility 1:54:37. Member Duffy requested the Chief also consider contractual inflexibilities (e.g., training scheduling, retirement notice periods) and work with the TA and union to find solutions 1:56:17. Chief Quesada concluded his presentation highlighting community engagement efforts 1:57:40. He mentioned a new policy/tracking system for engagement activities (senior center visits, temple outreach, etc.) and listed recent events attended (Policy Addiction Forum, ADL Day, DARE Camp, Juneteenth, Pride). He praised officers’ dedication and care for the community, citing examples of officers assisting residents 1:58:30. Member Duffy commended specific officers (Matt McDonald, Lt. Hennessey) for their visible community involvement, both in and out of uniform 2:00:37. Chief Quesada echoed praise for Officer McDonald (“community whisperer”) 2:01:23. Wildlife discussion: Chief Quesada noted ~50 coyote-related calls this year, mainly near Vinnin Square 2:03:40. He mentioned public education efforts (flyers, social media) and Lt. Fraylor’s work on mitigation plans 2:04:15. TA Fitzgerald added context about working with ACOs and Town Counsel on a potential wildlife feeding bylaw to educate residents and businesses against feeding coyotes/wildlife, preventing habituation and potential danger 2:05:03. He stated a draft bylaw is in the packet for future consideration 2:06:49.

Machon Property No Parking Signs: 2:07:30 Member Duffy moved, seconded by Member Hause, to approve the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee recommendation to install No Parking signs along the Machon property frontage (17 Burpee to 53 Burpee Rd) 2:07:49. The motion passed unanimously (Aye: Eppley, Duffy, Fletcher, Phelan, Hause) 2:08:03.

Consent Agenda: 2:08:06 The Board reviewed the consent agenda. Member Fletcher requested removal of the July 20, 2022 minutes for clarification regarding a statement attributed to Bill Demento about ARPA funds 2:08:28. After brief discussion and confirmation from Executive Assistant Gauthier about the likely phrasing used by Mr. Demento, Member Duffy suggested verifying the recording 2:09:18. TA Fitzgerald cautioned against verbatim minutes due to administrative burden 2:09:26. Member Fletcher agreed to approve pending verification but then noted another correction needed on page 3 (“Ms. Fletcher would like to sit and clear up the process” should be “Ms. Fletcher would like to clear up the process”) 2:10:07. She also reminded staff that documents presented at meetings should be attached to minutes per Open Meeting Law guidance 2:10:33. Chair Eppley moved to approve the consent agenda items (Hawking/Peddling permit, 1-day liquor license, minutes of 6/29/22 & 7/13/22) removing the 7/20/22 minutes for later approval 2:11:01. The motion was seconded by Member Phelan and passed unanimously (Aye: Eppley, Duffy, Fletcher, Phelan, Hause) 2:11:12.

Town Administrator’s Report: 2:11:16 TA Fitzgerald reported: recommending Richard Simmons (retired Linfield assessor, new ConCom member) as interim assessor; elementary school demolition starting soon; ongoing traffic plan work for Blaney transition; diligent work filling board/committee vacancies; productive veterans stakeholder meeting (exploring use of senior center van for veterans); praise for Jody Watts and the town newsletter (urged sign-ups); research on “smart boxes” for rodent control with Health Director; praise for summer recreation staff and programs (SUP success) 2:11:17. Member Hause asked about the ARPA survey 2:14:59. TA Fitzgerald confirmed it was sent out seeking resident input, with plans to add language regarding potential veteran support uses; he committed to providing access details 2:15:03. Member Duffy suggested a robocall to promote it 2:16:07. Chair Eppley asked how to grow newsletter subscribers (currently ~1000) 2:16:09. Member Duffy suggested using inserts in regular town bill mailings 2:16:44. TA Fitzgerald agreed, also suggesting outreach to faith-based and civic groups 2:17:31. Chair Eppley advocated reviving new resident welcome packets, leveraging realtors 2:18:11. TA Fitzgerald agreed and welcomed ideas for packet contents, noting funds exist in the Select Board budget 2:18:48. Member Phelan suggested a free beach pass 2:19:26.

Public Comments: 2:20:14 Danielle Leonard (Linden Ave, Town Meeting Member) thanked Member Phelan for her pertinent questions on Blaney traffic safety, especially crossing guards 2:20:35. She then raised concerns about the process for allocating $100k in ARPA “premium pay” before the public survey was conducted, questioning the criteria used for recipient selection and amounts, noting discrepancies (department heads favored, custodians/senior center staff omitted, past employees included) 2:21:32. Member Duffy suggested she discuss personnel rationale privately with the TA 2:23:35. Ms. Leonard objected, seeking public clarification on the rationale, not specific personnel details, expressing concern about a perception of favoritism 2:23:42. TA Fitzgerald reiterated it was a personnel matter best discussed privately 2:23:52. Ms. Leonard then expressed dismay at the earlier exchange with the Police Chief regarding union comments, characterizing it as an inappropriate public “dressing down” stemming from an adversarial town/union relationship 2:24:30. She called for a more congenial public relationship between the Board and unions, stating the town feels divided and the Board should act as role models 2:25:30.

Select Board Time: 2:27:33 Chair Eppley read an email from resident Karen Bonner thanking the Board for their commitment and hard work, acknowledging the difficulty of the role and wishing for a kinder tone of discourse in town 2:28:05. Member Fletcher provided updates from committee meetings: Capital Improvement Committee (CIC) is meeting, implementing Collins Center evaluation process, aiming for a 10-year plan (TA suggested 30), targeting completion by end of October with marathon meetings scheduled 2:29:27; Solid Waste Committee met with Board of Health, focusing on recycling at large events, potential glass removal/crushing program 2:31:55.

Adjournment: Member Phelan moved to adjourn, seconded by Member Phelan 2:33:00. Motion passed unanimously (Aye: Eppley, Duffy, Fletcher, Phelan, Hause) 2:33:02.

Section 4: Executive Summary

The Swampscott Select Board meeting on August 3, 2022, addressed several key operational and community issues, including election administration, support for veterans, school transition logistics, and public safety management.

Election Administration & Voting Access: Following a presentation by Town Clerk Jared LaLiberté on new state mandates 0:00:40, the Board approved necessary police staffing for upcoming elections 0:11:42. Significantly, the Board also passed a non-binding motion encouraging the Board of Registrars to adopt the most expansive early voting schedule proposed, signaling a priority for maximizing voter access even if slightly more costly 0:10:56. This reflects the town adapting to state election reforms aimed at increasing participation.

Veterans Support & VFW Lease: The Board unanimously approved a crucial one-year lease extension for the VFW post at Veterans Crossing 0:23:25, providing stability while the town navigates state procurement laws (Chapter 30B) requiring an RFP for a long-term lease 0:12:28. Board members, particularly Member Duffy, pushed for an expedited timeline for the RFP development, aiming for a draft review in early September 0:18:45. The discussion highlighted the historical context of the property and a strong desire from both the Board and VFW Commander Patrick Burke 0:14:43 to secure a stable, long-term home for Swampscott’s veterans organizations. The Town Administrator also noted ongoing building assessments and potential new support, like utilizing a town van for veteran transport [0:22:25, 2:12:48].

Hadley/Blaney School Transition & Traffic Safety: A major focus was the impending temporary relocation of Stanley School students to the Blaney School. The Board delegated authority to Police Chief Ruben Quesada to manage traffic patterns and safety measures around the school complex during this period 1:11:39. This decision followed presentations from the Chief and Captain Cable detailing the plan, including increased crossing guards and community engagement 0:34:41. Superintendent Angelakis confirmed adjustments were made to the plan (specifically regarding King Street traffic flow) based directly on resident feedback from recent meetings, demonstrating responsiveness to neighborhood concerns 0:47:59. Public comment underscored resident anxieties about traffic volume, pedestrian safety (especially during winter), parking, and the need for robust DPW support [1:01:43, 1:02:51]. The Board emphasized coordination between Police, Schools, engineers (GPI), and DPW. This delegation aims to ensure public safety is prioritized and managed flexibly during a period of significant disruption.

Police Department Staffing, Operations & Budget: Chief Quesada provided an update on department activities, staffing levels, and traffic enforcement 1:12:28. A significant portion of the discussion involved addressing police union comments from a prior meeting characterizing the department as “grossly negligent” due to understaffing 1:34:50. Chief Quesada refuted this characterization but acknowledged current vacancies and leaves are straining resources and impacting morale 1:35:11. He outlined his ongoing 90-day data analysis project to determine optimal staffing levels 1:49:58. Board members expressed concern over the public nature of the disagreement and pressed for details on hiring timelines and potential retirements, highlighting the challenge of meeting service demands within a constrained overtime budget [1:42:16, 1:48:23]. This discussion revealed underlying tensions regarding police resources, budget management, and communication between town administration, the police department, and its union.

Community Engagement & Communication: Several agenda items touched on communication. The Board discussed strategies to increase town newsletter readership 2:16:09 and revive new resident welcome packets 2:18:11. The Blaney traffic plan discussion emphasized ongoing communication with residents and PTOs [0:39:17, 0:50:09]. A public commenter criticized the transparency and timing of ARPA fund allocation relative to a public survey 2:21:32 and the public handling of police staffing disagreements 2:24:30, highlighting resident desire for clearer communication and more collaborative public discourse.

Other Decisions: The Board approved No Parking signs near the Machon property 2:08:03 and passed routine consent agenda items 2:11:01.

Section 5: Analysis

This Select Board meeting showcased a mix of routine administrative tasks and grappling with significant operational challenges and community concerns, revealing both procedural effectiveness and underlying tensions within town governance.

Effectiveness of Presentations & Deliberations:

• The Town Clerk’s presentation on the VOTES Act was clear and informative, leading to decisive action on police details and a clear (though non-binding) policy signal favoring expanded voting access 0:00:40.
• The VFW lease discussion demonstrated the Board responding proactively to an impending deadline while navigating complex legal constraints (Chapter 30B) identified by the Town Administrator 0:12:16. Commander Burke’s collaborative tone 0:14:43 likely facilitated the smooth approval of the extension, though Member Duffy’s push for an aggressive RFP timeline 0:18:45 reflected an awareness of the need for sustained momentum on the long-term solution.
• The Hadley/Blaney traffic plan discussion was extensive. While the delegation of authority to the Chief was approved relatively easily, the discussion revealed significant resident anxiety [1:01:43, 1:02:51]. The Superintendent’s intervention 0:46:49 demonstrating responsiveness to King Street concerns was crucial in showing the process worked, though her admission of delayed communication highlighted a potential weakness. The Police presentation laid out logistical plans 0:37:35, but follow-up questions on practicalities like non-rolling drop-off parking 0:41:45 indicated areas needing further attention. The Board’s decision to delegate authority appears pragmatic given the operational complexity, placing trust in the Police Chief’s professional judgment.

Police Department Dynamics & Scrutiny:

• The discussion surrounding police staffing was the most charged part of the meeting 1:34:24. Member Duffy’s direct questioning about the union’s “grossly negligent” comment forced Chief Quesada into a difficult position 1:34:50. Quesada handled it carefully, acknowledging staffing pressures without validating the extreme language, emphasizing operational capability while committing to data-driven analysis [1:35:11, 1:37:28]. His stance appeared aimed at balancing support for his officers’ concerns with his responsibility to town leadership.
• The subsequent questioning by Member Fletcher regarding hiring timelines, potential retirements, and budget feasibility further underscored the pressure on the department 1:42:16. The Chief’s explanation of his 90-day staffing analysis 1:49:58 presents a path forward but delays definitive answers on resource needs, leaving the issue somewhat unresolved.
• This extended scrutiny, prompted by the union’s prior public statement, reveals significant tension concerning police resources, contractual constraints (implied by overtime discussions and Member Duffy’s comments 1:56:17), and the appropriate forum for these debates. The public comment from Danielle Leonard 2:24:30 criticizing the public nature of this exchange suggests resident discomfort with these internal conflicts playing out openly.

Public Engagement & Communication:

• The meeting demonstrated varied success in public engagement. The responsiveness to King Street traffic concerns was a positive example 0:47:59. However, the handling of Danielle Leonard’s critique regarding ARPA fund allocation – directing her to a private conversation with the TA 2:23:35 – appeared dismissive of her request for public rationale and transparency, potentially fueling perceptions of inadequate public input on financial decisions.
• The Board’s discussion on improving newsletter outreach and welcome packets showed an awareness of communication gaps [2:16:09, 2:18:11], though concrete implementation plans remain pending.

Overall Dynamics: Chair Eppley facilitated the meeting effectively, managing agenda changes and public comment. Member Duffy emerged as a particularly active questioner, driving discussions on the VFW timeline, police staffing, and pedestrian safety. Member Fletcher consistently raised budget and process-oriented questions. Member Phelan focused on practical implications for residents (crossing guards, parking). The Town Administrator played a key role in framing issues (VFW lease constraints, traffic delegation rationale) and providing administrative updates. The public commenters, though few, raised substantive issues reflecting resident concerns about safety, process transparency, and the tone of town governance. The meeting ultimately achieved its necessary procedural outcomes but also surfaced significant ongoing challenges related to police resources/morale and effective, transparent communication with the community.