Cohasset Select Board Recap: Wheelwright Cell Tower, Public Safety Building, and New Town Manager Contract

The Cohasset Select Board's June 16 meeting featured sharp debate over the proposed Wheelwright Park cell tower, a renewed effort to reshape the town's public safety facility plan, and the formal approval of Michelle Leary as Cohasset's permanent Town Manager.

Wheelwright Park Cell Tower

The most emotional portion of the meeting focused on the proposed cell tower at Wheelwright Park. Several residents urged the town to reconsider the location, citing the park's historic public-recreation purpose, the May Town Meeting vote against using the park for the tower, and concerns about aesthetics, trails, and public trust.

Citizen speakers urged the town to explore smaller antenna options. One cited earlier meeting minutes suggesting residents expected another town vote before any lease. Another, speaking for the Open Space and Recreation Committee, pointed to the 199-30 Town Meeting vote against the park location. Alix White of Holly Hill Farm asked the board to pause before taking what many view as an irreversible step.

After executive session, the Select Board voted unanimously to release a June 1 Town Counsel legal opinion. Board members said Town Counsel viewed the May Town Meeting article as non-binding and said the existing lease agreement may still create legal obligations for the town. Board members also expressed concern that simply walking away from the agreement could expose Cohasset to litigation, including breach-of-contract claims.

The discussion then became tense between the Select Board and Open Space Committee, with Select Board members criticizing a recent Open Space public statement. In reply, the chair of Open Space strongly defended the committee, saying its position has been consistent: a cell tower does not belong in a public park.

Despite the friction, the board took a step toward a possible off-ramp. Interim Town Manager Michelle Leary reported that engineers had walked an alternative Recycling Transfer Facility site to study whether it could support the necessary public safety communications.

The board voted 5-0 to direct the Town Manager to study alternative public safety cell tower locations on town-owned land, while expressly not waiving or breaching any existing contractual rights.

Public Safety Facilities

The board also continued work on the future of Cohasset's public safety facilities following the failed Town Meeting vote on the proposed 135 King Street project.

Board member Will Ashton presented an updated framework for the Public Safety Facilities Committee. The goal is to compare a reduced-scope King Street option with possible renovation or expansion options at the existing Elm Street public safety site.

The board discussed whether the committee should be given strict size limits for an Elm Street addition, but ultimately favored flexibility so public safety officials and committee members can analyze operational needs and tradeoffs without being boxed in too early.

The board voted 5-0 to expand the Public Safety Facilities Committee to nine voting members. After public interviews, Rich Fitzpatrick and Daniel Duffy were appointed to fill the two new seats.

Michelle Leary Appointed Permanent Town Manager

In a major town government development, the board approved Michelle Leary's employment contract as Cohasset's permanent Town Manager. The contract was reviewed using comparable municipal salary information and labor counsel assistance. The vote was unanimous, 5-0, and was met with applause.

Other Business

The Town Hall renovation project is moving forward. Mark Cameron reported that the interior schematic design phase is complete and updated cost estimates show the project currently trending about $223,000 over the original budget. The window replacement contract has been awarded, with work expected to begin this summer.

The board also addressed a Sandy Beach request to suspend seasonal ice cream vendor licenses because of concerns about children running near piping plover nesting areas. Some members expressed concern about changing the rules mid-season after licenses had already been issued. The board voted 4-0, with one abstention, to renew Nona's Ice Cream license while directing Greg Watts to work with the beach association and vendors on a compromise.

The board also approved several upcoming events, including the Minot's Light Roundabout Race on September 12, the Cape Cod Bay Challenge on August 15, and the Safe Harbor Overdose Awareness Vigil on August 31. The board also voted to waive town fees for the Safe Harbor vigil.

Committee Vacancies

The town is also seeking residents to serve on several boards and committees. Openings include Cohasset Community Television Corp., Sidewalk Safety & Connectivity, Conservation Commission, Elder Affairs, Cultural Council, Community Preservation, and others.

Residents interested in serving should check the Town of Cohasset website for current vacancies and application information.