Swampscott Select Board Meeting Review - November 1, 2023

Section 1: Agenda

Based on the transcript flow and provided metadata, the likely agenda followed during the meeting was:

1. Town Administrator’s Report 0:00:00
   • Includes updates on school project funding, emergency notification system (OnSolve), Veterans Day, and extensive discussion arising from member questions regarding Kings Beach/Fisherman’s Beach water quality issues, funding, strategy, and regional collaboration. 1:01:00
   • Includes update on Mission on the Bay Chapter 91 status. 20:20:00
2. Public Comment 22:38:00
   • Dominated by comments regarding Kings Beach and Fisherman’s Beach water quality, testing, health concerns, and calls for action/committee formation.
3. New and Old Business
   • Appointment of New Director of Planning & Land Use (Pete Kane) 40:36:00
   • Discussion & Possible Vote on Town Fees 47:57:00 (Tabled)
   • (Out of Order) Discussion & Possible Vote on an Intermunicipal Agreement for Shared Building Commissioner Services with the Town of Marblehead 59:08:00
   • Water & Sewer Consumption Update 49:08:00 (Presented after Fee discussion was tabled, but before Building Commissioner IMA)
   • Review & Possible Vote to Approve the MBTA Multi-Family District Maps [1:15:42:00]
   • Discussion & Possible Vote on the Creation of a Water & Sewer Infrastructure Committee [1:20:31:00] (Deferred to Nov 15th meeting)
4. Votes of the Board
   • Approval of the Consent Agenda [1:36:17:00]
     • Vote to Grant Permission for Chabad 5K Run (Approved)
     • Vote to Approve One-Day Liquor License for Dockside Pub Veterans’ Event (Approved)
     • Vote to Approve Minutes (Removed from Consent Agenda, Tabled)
5. Select Board Time [1:41:00:00]
   • Includes updates/comments on Glover House assessment, Israel-Hamas situation, Solid Waste Advisory Committee meeting, potential business newsletter, Harbor & Waterfront Advisory Committee/Pier resiliency, and School Building Committee progress.
6. Adjournment [1:51:52:00]

Section 2: Speaking Attendees

• Sean Fitzgerald (Town Administrator): [Speaker 2]
• MaryEllen Fletcher (Select Board Member): [Speaker 3]
• Doug Thompson (Select Board Member): [Speaker 4]
• David Eppley (Select Board Chair): [Speaker 5]
• Peter Spellios (Select Board Member): [Speaker 1]
• Steve Cummings (Building Commissioner): [Speaker 6], [Speaker 18] (brief interjections, e.g., 1:04:25)
• Katie Phelan (Select Board Member): [Speaker 7]
• Patrick Luddy (Assistant Town Accountant/Finance Role): [Speaker 8]
• Mary de Chillo (Resident, Precinct 4): [Speaker 9]
• Andrea Moore (Resident, Safe Kings Beach representative): [Speaker 10]
• Lewis Chisoulo (Resident): [Speaker 11]
• Larry Swayze (Resident, Harbor Advisory Committee member): [Speaker 12]
• Katie Arrington (Resident, Precinct 3 - Remote): [Speaker 13]
• Art Friedman (Resident, Former Board of Health Chair): [Speaker 14]
• Kilmer Swayze (Resident): [Speaker 15]
• Pete Kane (HR Director, Incoming Director of Planning & Asst. TA): [Speaker 16]
• HR Staff/Representative (Unidentified): [Speaker 17]
• Town Staff (Unidentified): [Speaker 18] (brief interjections, e.g., 1:36:53, 1:45:51)

Section 3: Meeting Minutes

1. Town Administrator’s Report & Water Quality Discussion 0:00:00 Town Administrator (TA) Sean Fitzgerald reported on potential grant funding increases for the school project, a switch to the OnSolve emergency notification system, and the upcoming Veterans Day program.

Member MaryEllen Fletcher initiated a lengthy discussion 1:01:00 expressing frustration and confusion regarding the Kings Beach water quality situation. She questioned the communication flow, the status of a UV pilot program mentioned by State Rep. Armini, the lack of disclosure about a critical EPA report, and specifically challenged the TA’s authority to spend the $2.5 million state grant without Select Board approval, citing Mass General Law.

TA Fitzgerald responded 3:05:00, detailing two years of effort building a regional coalition with Lynn, securing $5 million in state funds ($2M for Swampscott), and developing a scope of work exploring alternatives like UV light and outfall extension alongside traditional IDDE (Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination). He expressed frustration with EPA communications demanding more aggression while simultaneously emphasizing the need for a massive ($50M+) state/federal investment beyond incremental fixes.

Member Fletcher reiterated her concern 5:34:00 about the lack of Board discussion and approval for spending the $2.5M grant, stating her preference for prioritizing source elimination.

Member Doug Thompson agreed 6:20:00, highlighting a perceived disconnect between the TA’s efforts and the Board’s strategic direction, particularly favoring source elimination funded potentially through SRF loans, similar to other communities under consent decrees. He called for a specific Board vote on spending strategy at the next meeting. This exchange indicated a notable dynamic of Board members seeking more direct oversight on strategy and appropriations related to water quality efforts.

Member Peter Spellios 7:54:00 acknowledged TA Fitzgerald’s foundational work in building collaboration with Lynn, stressing the regional nature of the problem and the need for political will achieved through partnership. While supporting more Board discussion, he cautioned against deterring the TA’s regional efforts and noted the delay in forming the resident advisory committee.

TA Fitzgerald 10:48:00 affirmed the commitment to IDDE while pursuing alternatives and welcomed Board discussion on spending the grant funds.

Chair David Eppley 12:21:00 inquired about coordinating stakeholders (DEP, EPA, Lynn, etc.), suggesting a summit. TA Fitzgerald 13:09:00 discussed the complexities, the need for consensus, combating misinformation, and the potential value of a resident committee and possibly joint meetings with Lynn officials. He mentioned Kleinfelder working on improved public information dissemination.

Member Katie Phelan 16:24:00 forcefully argued that Fisherman’s Beach, being solely Swampscott’s responsibility, requires dedicated attention alongside Kings Beach. TA Fitzgerald confirmed 17:12:00 Fisherman’s Beach work is included in the scope sent to DEP and synergies exist. The discussion revealed significant Board focus and some internal tension regarding the water quality strategy, funding control, and the balance between regional collaboration and local responsibility.

2. Other Town Administrator Report Items Member Spellios urged extraordinary efforts 18:16:00 to promote resident sign-ups for the new OnSolve notification system via multiple channels (mailings, emails, calls). TA Fitzgerald confirmed plans for broad outreach 20:00:00. Member Spellios also inquired about progress on the Mission on the Bay wall situation 20:20:00, emphasizing the use of public land and safety concerns. TA Fitzgerald reported the property owner hired reputable consultants and the Conservation Commission and Building Commissioner are pursuing enforcement 21:20:00. Member Thompson praised the positive financial impact of grants secured for the school project 21:57:00.

3. Public Comment 22:38:00 Public comment was heavily focused on water quality:

• Larry Swayze 23:04:00 (Harbor Advisory Committee member) emphasized Fisherman’s Beach as “home” for many residents (boaters, sailing program) and urged focused action, transparency via posted numbers/flags, and community involvement.
• Art Friedman 25:33:00 (Former Board of Health Chair) echoed concerns about Fisherman’s Beach health risks, particularly for children, and called for frequent testing and signage if necessary. He suggested a committee with public members.
• Katie Arrington (remote) 27:38:00 expressed support for ongoing clean water efforts and acknowledged the complexity while urging continued progress.
• Lewis Chisoulo 29:42:00 advocated for a Town Meeting, stressed Fisherman’s Beach as “our baby,” called for collaborative “boots on the ground” action rather than just scoping, and praised Safe Kings Beach leaders.
• Mary de Chillo 32:04:00 requested the existing Harbor and Waterfront Advisory Committee be involved in Kings Beach discussions, questioned their focus, and argued against pier work before water quality issues are resolved. She also expressed concern about scattered committees competing for funds.
• Kilmer Swayze 35:29:00 suggested using the town notification system to alert residents about unsafe swimming conditions, involving the Board of Health.
• Andrea Moore 36:51:00 (Safe Kings Beach) supported the creation of a sewer infrastructure committee, affirmed support for Fisherman’s Beach work, stated information received indicated state/federal funding is not available for source elimination (urging immediate action using SRF loans and potential rate increases), and clarified UV/outfall are partners to, not alternatives for, source elimination (IDDE). Her comments presented direct counterarguments to some points made earlier by the TA.

Member Spellios 39:30:00, reacting to public comment, stressed the need for a robust, factual conversation at the next meeting to provide full context beyond simplified narratives, cautioning against setting unrealistic expectations about quick fixes. He committed to having the water quality item on the November 15th agenda, which Chair Eppley confirmed 40:36:00.

4. Appointment of New Director of Planning & Land Use 40:36:00 TA Fitzgerald recommended Pete Kane (current HR Director) be appointed Director of Planning and Land Use / Assistant Town Administrator, praising his extensive planning background 40:45:00. He outlined the reporting structure and plans to hire a new HR Manager; Mr. Kane would transition after the HR position is filled. Member Fletcher asked about potential conflicts or issues with the dual role history; TA Fitzgerald confirmed none 44:20:00. Member Spellios noted the Town Charter gives the TA appointment authority but expressed strong support, highlighting the need for expertise during the current “execution phase” of development projects 45:19:00. Member Fletcher commended the Planning Board for their work during the vacancy 45:53:00. Mr. Kane expressed excitement and commitment to ensuring HR is staffed before his transition 46:28:00. An update on the DEI consultant RFP was provided (responses due in two weeks) 47:10:00. MOTION: To endorse the TA’s recommendation to appoint Pete Kane as Director of Planning & Land Use / Assistant Town Administrator. (Moved: Fletcher, Second: Spellios) VOTE: Approved unanimously 47:45:00.

5. Discussion & Possible Vote on Town Fees 47:57:00 Member Spellios noted the provided memo seemed incomplete 48:05:00. TA Fitzgerald confirmed the Director of Finance was on vacation and more comprehensive information could be provided later. DECISION: The Board agreed to table the discussion 48:57:00.

6. Water & Sewer Consumption Update 49:08:00 Patrick Luddy (Assistant Town Accountant/Finance) presented an update 49:19:00. Key points: FY24 rates increased 2.5% plus base rate changes. Q1 (May-July) water usage was down 19% compared to prior year, largely attributed to heavy rainfall 51:10:00, resulting in projected revenue shortfalls ($90k water, $94k sewer). Similar trends were seen in Marblehead and Nahant. While Q1 results warrant monitoring, the town maintains 20% retained earnings in each fund, and options exist to address shortfalls later in the fiscal year. The next billing cycle (Nov 15) will provide more data. Member Spellios discussed the importance of retained earnings for stabilizing rates 56:02:00, especially given anticipated future costs for infrastructure projects potentially requiring double-digit rate increases, impacting vulnerable residents. Member Fletcher requested a forecast of rate impacts from taking on $2M/$4M SRF loans at 2% 57:32:00. Member Spellios suggested a broader sensitivity table showing impacts based on varying principal amounts and interest rates 58:07:00, which Mr. Luddy agreed to provide. The discussion highlighted the financial pressures on the water/sewer enterprise funds and future rate sensitivity.

7. Intermunicipal Agreement (IMA) for Shared Building Commissioner Services (Marblehead) 59:08:00 (Taken out of order) TA Fitzgerald presented a proposed IMA for Swampscott Building Commissioner (BC) Steve Cummings to provide services to Marblehead, which has struggled to fill its BC position 59:20:00. He noted the history of shared personnel and the potential for regional efficiencies. The agreement involves Swampscott receiving ~ $1k/week for an estimated 10-16 hours/week of the BC’s time. BC Cummings [1:02:19:00] stated Swampscott remains his priority and viewed this as a trial. He noted potential benefits like future shared staffing (inspectors) but emphasized needing to test the dynamics, particularly during slower winter months. Member Thompson questioned the feasibility of one person covering both towns, especially during busy seasons [1:04:14:00]. TA Fitzgerald acknowledged potential pressures but noted differing work schedules and the cyclical nature of inspections [1:05:26:00]. Chair Eppley spoke in favor of exploring regionalization [1:07:28:00]. BC Cummings added that Marblehead might hire another inspector if the arrangement works, potentially benefiting Swampscott [1:08:30:00]. Member Phelan confirmed the understanding that this is a first step towards a potentially broader intermunicipal department [1:12:34:00]. Member Spellios asked about online inspection scheduling (currently human-to-human) [1:14:11:00]. MOTION: To approve proceeding with the trial IMA for shared Building Commissioner services with Marblehead. (Moved: Thompson, Second: Fletcher) VOTE: Approved unanimously [1:15:29:00].

8. MBTA Multi-Family District Maps Approval [1:15:42:00] With Planning Board representative Angela Ippolito unable to attend, the Board discussed the previously presented MBTA Communities compliance maps. Member Thompson asked about the realistic potential for new unit creation within the designated zones [1:16:17:00]. TA Fitzgerald and Member Spellios agreed the maps achieve compliance but likely won’t generate significant new housing stock due to Swampscott being built-out and density opposition challenges, except potentially in Vinnin Square [1:17:28:00 - 1:18:49:00]. MOTION: To adopt the 3A zoning map and compliance model as submitted and recommended by the Planning Board, recommend the Planning Board draft zoning regulations for future Select Board approval, and acknowledge an article for a 3A zoning overlay amendment will likely be included in the May 2024 Town Meeting Warrant. (Moved: Fletcher, Second: Spellios) VOTE: Approved unanimously [1:20:30:00].

9. Creation of a Water & Sewer Infrastructure Committee [1:20:31:00] Member Spellios stated he and Member Thompson were tasked at the last meeting with drafting a committee description/charge but had not yet completed it due to travel [1:20:42:00]. Member Fletcher argued to move forward using a scope proposed by resident Liz Smith via email [1:21:49:00]. Member Spellios countered strongly [1:21:25:00, 1:24:10:00], emphasizing the need for a carefully crafted charge, developed with staff input, to ensure the committee’s success, set proper expectations, and avoid frustrating volunteers. He stressed the complexity of the issue and the importance of process alongside passion. Member Fletcher advocated for starting the volunteer recruitment process immediately [1:23:36:00, 1:30:19:00]. Member Thompson raised the question of whether this should be a new committee or merged with existing ones like the Water & Sewer Rate Committee or Harbor & Waterfront Committee [1:31:31:00]. Chair Eppley favored distinct committees [1:32:26:00]. Member Spellios argued for potentially combining with the Rate Committee to integrate financial realities into the infrastructure solutions [1:32:59:00]. Member Phelan cautioned against forcing existing committee members into a new, potentially more demanding role without their consent [1:35:27:00]. DECISION: Members Spellios and Thompson will present a proposed committee charge, addressing scope and structure (standalone vs. combined), at the November 15th meeting [1:23:31:00, 1:36:17:00]. The Board agreed residents could begin submitting letters of interest.

10. Consent Agenda [1:36:17:00] The consent agenda included permission for the Chabad 5K run, a one-day liquor license for a Dockside Pub Veterans’ event on Town Hall Lawn, and approval of minutes. Member Fletcher requested the minutes be removed and tabled, which was agreed upon [1:36:45:00]. She inquired about the Veterans’ event organizer (Geron Foundation) and purpose (cornhole tournament fundraiser). Member Thompson questioned the legality of granting a special license to an existing license holder operating off-premise; Member Phelan clarified the license is for the event location (Town Hall Lawn), not the pub’s premises [1:37:43:00]. Member Fletcher confirmed liability insurance was secured [1:39:34:00]. Member Phelan and Member Spellios reiterated the long-standing request for formal rules and regulations governing such one-day licenses, stating approval should be contingent on having these in place going forward [1:39:53:00]. MOTION: To approve the consent agenda items 1 (Chabad Run) and 2 (Dockside Pub license), removing item 3 (Minutes). (Moved: Thompson, Second: Fletcher implicitly, confirmed by vote) VOTE: Approved unanimously [1:40:57:00].

11. Select Board Time [1:41:00:00]

• Member Thompson reported assessment work is underway regarding the feasibility of dismantling and potentially reconstructing the Glover House elsewhere [1:41:04:00]. He also revisited the Board’s prior statement on the Israel-Hamas conflict, expressing personal horror at the ongoing situation and hoping for a resolution that minimizes civilian casualties [1:42:09:00].
• Member Fletcher provided an update on the Solid Waste Advisory Committee’s recent public meeting, noting good attendance, constructive feedback, and the committee’s collaborative approach [1:43:24:00]. She also reported the Retirement Committee is interviewing advisors and confirmed TA Fitzgerald is addressing retiree insurance expiration concerns [1:44:37:00].
• Member Phelan, who attended the Solid Waste meeting online, suggested creating a business-specific newsletter to improve communication with local businesses, offering to help facilitate it [1:45:45:00]. TA Fitzgerald indicated the town newsletter could potentially be adapted quarterly [1:46:58:00].
• Member Spellios provided updates on the Harbor & Waterfront Advisory Committee, emphasizing their work on pier resiliency as a necessity due to sea-level rise, not just aesthetics, and encouraging public engagement [1:48:12:00]. He also praised the School Building Committee for keeping the project on budget and on time, highlighting the significant volunteer effort involved [1:50:40:00].

12. Adjournment [1:51:52:00] MOTION: To adjourn. (Moved: Fletcher, Second implied) VOTE: Approved unanimously.

Section 4: Executive Summary

This Swampscott Select Board meeting was marked by extensive discussion on pressing town issues, particularly water quality infrastructure, alongside key appointments and decisions regarding regional cooperation and state mandates.

Water Quality Dominates Discussion, Strategy Debated Significant time was dedicated to the persistent water quality problems at Kings Beach and, increasingly, Fisherman’s Beach [1:01:00 - 40:45:00]. Prompted by questions from Member Fletcher and numerous public commenters (Swayze, Friedman, Chisoulo, Moore, etc.), a clear tension emerged between Town Administrator Fitzgerald’s reported efforts focusing on regional collaboration with Lynn and seeking large-scale state/federal funding 3:05:00, and a desire from some Board members (Fletcher, Thompson) and residents for more immediate, town-controlled action prioritizing source elimination (fixing pipes) potentially funded by existing grants or low-interest state loans [6:20:00, 38:18:00]. The debate centered on the best strategy, the urgency of action (especially concerning Fisherman’s Beach, highlighted by Member Phelan 16:24:00), and the Select Board’s oversight role in approving the use of a $2.5 million state grant. Significance: This issue is a top concern for residents impacting health and recreation. The debate highlights the financial and jurisdictional complexities (regional vs. local) and differing philosophies on tackling major infrastructure deficits. The Board committed to a dedicated discussion and potential decisions on strategy and funding allocation at the November 15th meeting 40:30:00.

New Planning Director Appointed, Regional Cooperation Explored The Board unanimously endorsed the appointment of current HR Director Pete Kane as the new Director of Planning & Land Use and Assistant Town Administrator [40:45:00, 47:45:00]. This move aims to bolster the town’s planning capacity during a period of significant development interest (Humphrey St, Hadley, Hawthorne, Vinnin Square). Significance: Fills a critical leadership role supporting key town development initiatives. In a move towards regional efficiency, the Board approved a trial Intermunicipal Agreement (IMA) for Swampscott’s Building Commissioner, Steve Cummings, to provide services to Marblehead [59:08:00, 1:15:29:00]. Significance: This pilot program explores potential cost savings and service improvements through shared resources with a neighboring town facing staffing shortages, though questions remain about workload feasibility long-term [1:04:14:00].

MBTA Communities Compliance & Financial Updates The Board approved the proposed zoning map to comply with the state’s MBTA Communities Act [1:15:42:00, 1:20:30:00], acknowledging that while meeting the legal requirement, it may not significantly increase affordable housing stock due to local constraints [1:17:43:00]. Significance: Swampscott meets the state mandate, avoiding potential penalties, but the practical impact on housing availability appears limited. A report on water and sewer consumption showed a significant decrease due to summer rainfall, leading to a projected revenue shortfall 49:19:00. This flags potential future pressure on rates or the need to use retained earnings 56:02:00. Significance: Residents may face higher utility bills in the future to cover operational costs and fund necessary infrastructure repairs highlighted in the water quality discussions.

New Committee Formation & Communication Efforts Following public input and Board discussion, the creation of a dedicated Water & Sewer Infrastructure Committee was formally deferred to November 15th to allow Members Spellios and Thompson to finalize a detailed scope and structure [1:23:31:00]. Debate occurred on whether to merge this with the existing Rate Committee [1:31:31:00]. Significance: Demonstrates responsiveness to resident concerns but also highlights the Board’s focus on establishing clear mandates for volunteer committees. The town is transitioning to a new emergency notification system (OnSolve) 0:00:40, with Board members urging extensive outreach to ensure resident sign-up 18:16:00. A need for better communication with the business community was also identified [1:45:45:00]. Significance: Effective communication is crucial for public safety and engagement; efforts are underway to improve systems and outreach.

Consent Agenda & Select Board Time Items Routine approvals included a 5K run permit and a one-day liquor license for a Veterans’ Day event, though the latter prompted renewed calls for formal town policies on such licenses [1:39:53:00]. Select Board time included updates on assessing the Glover House’s future [1:41:04:00], the Solid Waste Advisory Committee’s public meeting [1:43:24:00], and ongoing work by the Harbor & Waterfront (pier resiliency [1:48:12:00]) and School Building Committees [1:50:40:00].

Section 5: Analysis

This Select Board meeting showcased a board grappling with complex, long-term infrastructure challenges while navigating immediate operational decisions and resident concerns, all within the typical structure of Massachusetts town government.

Water Quality: A Microcosm of Governance Tensions The dominant theme – water quality infrastructure [1:01:00 - 40:45:00] – served as a focal point for several underlying dynamics. TA Fitzgerald presented a narrative of proactive, strategic regional engagement aimed at securing substantial external funding, portraying the problem’s scale as exceeding local capacity [3:05:00, 4:20:00]. However, this approach faced clear pushback, primarily from Members Fletcher and Thompson, who championed a more internally focused strategy prioritizing immediate source elimination using available or borrowable funds ([1:01:00, 6:20:00]). Their arguments emphasized Board oversight of appropriations (citing MGL 1:48:00) and drew parallels to how other towns managed similar issues (SRF loans 7:12:00). Public commenters, particularly Andrea Moore 36:51:00, effectively reinforced this latter perspective by directly challenging the premise of federal funding availability for source elimination and advocating for existing loan programs. This dynamic reflects a common tension in municipal governance: the balance between executive action/long-term strategy (TA) and legislative oversight/demand for immediate results (Select Board/Public). Member Spellios attempted to bridge this gap 7:54:00, validating the TA’s regional efforts while affirming the need for Board-level strategic consensus. The effectiveness of the public comment was evident in the Board’s commitment to dedicate significant agenda time at the next meeting to resolve the strategic direction and funding allocation.

Committee Formation: Process vs. Urgency The debate over forming the Water & Sewer Infrastructure Committee [1:20:31:00 - 1:36:15:00] further illustrated differing philosophies. Member Fletcher’s push for immediate formation based on a resident’s proposal [1:21:49:00] reflected an understandable urgency driven by public pressure. Conversely, Member Spellios’s insistence on a carefully crafted charge, developed with staff input [1:24:10:00], underscored the importance of process, realistic expectations, and ensuring volunteer time is used effectively – lessons likely learned from past committee experiences (e.g., Traffic Advisory mentioned [1:21:25:00]). Member Thompson’s pragmatic question about merging committees [1:31:31:00] introduced structural considerations. This exchange highlights the challenge of channeling intense public passion into productive, sustainable civic engagement structures. The decision to defer for two weeks represents a compromise, allowing for process refinement while acknowledging the urgency.

Regionalism: Pragmatism Prevails Despite the tensions surrounding the regional approach to Kings Beach, the Board demonstrated pragmatism in unanimously approving the IMA with Marblehead for shared Building Commissioner services [1:15:29:00]. The arguments presented by TA Fitzgerald and BC Cummings focused on immediate need (Marblehead’s vacancy) and potential long-term efficiencies [59:20:00, 1:02:19:00]. While Member Thompson raised valid concerns about workload [1:04:14:00], the framing as a “trial” during a slower season likely eased approval. This suggests the Board is open to regional solutions when presented as practical, incremental steps addressing specific operational needs, contrasting with the more complex, high-stakes regional strategy debated for water quality.

Overall Dynamics The meeting showed a Board actively engaged, willing to challenge the administration, and responsive to public comment. However, it also revealed potential fault lines regarding strategic direction on major capital needs and the process for incorporating resident input. The TA appeared effective in moving forward administrative appointments and operational agreements but faced significant questioning on the handling of the high-profile water quality issue. Public commenters demonstrated considerable influence, particularly in shaping the water quality agenda and pushing for committee formation. The effectiveness of future actions, especially concerning water infrastructure, will likely depend on the Board’s ability to reach internal consensus and clearly define its strategic priorities and the roles of staff and advisory committees.