Select Board - 07/13/26

The Westwood Select Board meeting on July 13, 2026, included several procurement and budget-related discussions. The board approved a one-day special wine and malt beverage license for an event benefiting Dana Farber Cancer Center. They authorized a $3,779 transfer from the reserve fund to cover the Blue Hills Regional Technical School assessment for FY27. The board also voted unanimously to submit a letter of support to the Massachusetts Senate for legislation to acquire and reopen Norwood Hospital, highlighting its regional importance. A detailed update was provided on the Fire Station One (FS1) project, including site test fits, budget considerations, and community engagement plans, emphasizing the need to proceed promptly due to rising construction costs. The board authorized the fire chief to implement safety measures around the temporary FS1 structure. Additionally, the board approved a $200,000 injured-on-duty reserve fund policy and ratified a memorandum of agreement with SEIU Local 888 aligning collective bargaining language with town personnel policies. Finally, the board discussed a transitional legal services agreement with retiring town counsel and addressed ongoing litigation related to a conservation restriction. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter executive session to discuss real estate strategy related to the FS1 project.