Pembroke, Massachusetts Development News
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Pembroke Select Board: 7/15/26
Published: Jul 15, 2026
Legal Action Over 48 Scooset Street Project, Town Council's Stance Undisclosed; Recycling Audit Update Requested
Resident Sue Baller inquired about the town's stance in a court case involving the 48 Scooset Street project, where Palmer Management is suing the town, and residents are upset. The town attorney indicated that zoning had an executive session but declined to provide details due to confidentiality. Baller questioned the town council's stance and the possibility of the town fighting the case. She also sought an update on the land court proceedings, noting a joint statement and an upcoming judge's meeting on July XX. The town attorney could not provide a definitive update on the town's legal strategy due to the executive session but suggested the possibility of the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) bringing the matter back. Resident Judy Ferrante also inquired about the recycling audit, reporting that the first day was problematic due to a large hose skewing results, and awaiting the final report.
Town Manager Reports on State Budget, FEMA Denial, and Project Updates
The Town Manager provided an update on the fiscal year 2027 budget, state aid, and various town projects. Key financial points include receiving $251,668.79 from the Winter Recovery Assistance Program (WRAP) to offset snow and ice deficits. However, FEMA denied Massachusetts's request for a major disaster declaration for the February blizzard, with the state appealing the decision. The town is also managing snow and ice costs by asking departments, including the school department, to avoid extraordinary expenses. The governor signed the state budget, resulting in an increase of $146,624 for education (Chapter 78) and a net gain of $19,936 for municipal government aid (AGA), totaling approximately $100,000 in unexpected funds. Updates on various town projects were given, including paving schedules, gas line updates, drainage and water main work, water station treatment plant upgrades, loggy preserve bid documents, town landing improvements, and the Turna house move. Public safety projects are on track and under budget. An update on outstanding CPA projects indicated a review is underway, with plans to reach out to non-town entities for status updates, and a report expected for town meeting prep.
Select Board Member Calls for Collaborative Governance and Reduced Conflict
Select Board member Keegan delivered a statement expressing appreciation for the energy and efforts of Steve Tracy and acknowledging their passion for Pembroke, commitment to transparency, and accountability. He clarified that no board member opposes transparency or an open government, but that differing approaches exist. Keegan drew parallels to military leadership, emphasizing that building trust and creating an environment for performance are more effective than combative tactics. He stated that true municipal leadership involves setting clear benchmarks, providing resources, and holding individuals accountable. Keegan urged for a collaborative approach, asking fellow board members to put conflict aside, work with the town manager, and focus on serving the town, promising his open door for collaboration.
General Bylaw Review Committee Reforms Proposed to Enhance Clarity and Effectiveness
The Select Board discussed and proposed reforms for the General Bylaw Review Committee. The reforms aim to provide a clearer scope, structure, and purpose for the committee. Key changes include defining the committee as a five-member body with one select board member and four citizens at large, establishing one-year terms with annual reorganization for selecting officers, and outlining specific goals such as updating definitions, improving grammar and syntax, ensuring consistent enforcement, reflecting current practices of similar towns, aligning with state regulations, and strengthening the town's legal position. The discussion also included a debate on term lengths, with a preference for three-year staggered terms to ensure continuity, and clarification on the process for appointing a select board member to the committee.
Code of Conduct Postponed; Updates Provided on CPA Projects, Performance Reviews, and Hatch Building Transfer
The board discussed an item regarding the code of conduct, deciding to postpone its discussion to the next meeting to ensure Dan's presence. The discussion about outstanding CPA projects revealed that a review has begun, and the town plans to reach out to non-town entities for project status updates. A comprehensive report with a schedule is expected for town meeting preparation. The town manager also provided an update on the documented process for annual employee performance reviews, stating that work is ongoing and more time is needed, with updates to be provided at board meetings. The Hatch building has been transferred to the town by the school committee, offering an opportunity for town agencies, with plans to stabilize and secure the building, though a full report to CPC might be delayed until spring.
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The Pembroke News archive
Pembroke School Committee: 7/14/26
Pembroke Conservation Commission: 7/2/26
Pembroke Select Board: 7/1/26
Pembroke Planning Board: 6/22/26
Pembroke Select Board: 6/17/26
Pembroke School Committee: 6/16/26
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