Manchester-By-The-Sea Select Board Meeting | August 17, 2026

The Manchester-By-The-Sea Select Board meeting on August 17, 2026, included several procurement-related discussions primarily focused on infrastructure and community development projects. The board approved National Grid petitions for underground conduit installations and new service poles, involving temporary outages and infrastructure upgrades. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a detailed presentation and discussion of the Ocean Street and O'Neal coastal vulnerability and resilience project, including preliminary concept plans, phased implementation actions, and funding strategies. The board emphasized the need for structural assessments, regulatory coordination, and community engagement before advancing to mid- and long-term improvements. Budget considerations for the next fiscal year were discussed, particularly regarding funding the necessary structural evaluations. Additionally, the board approved the transfer of an all-alcohol license for a new restaurant and considered amendments to liquor license premises for outdoor dining. The meeting also addressed the format and transparency of mooring assignment transaction reports, with motions passed to improve reporting standards. Other topics included updates on the housing production plan, electric vehicle charging rates, and various liaison reports. The board planned further community meetings to discuss the coastal project and emphasized the importance of clear timelines and budget planning for upcoming capital projects.