$750,000 Emergency Waterproofing Strategy Emerges to Rescue Decaying Memorial Hall Following Chronic Neglect

Key Points

  • Select Board authorizes 60-day one-way pilot program for Fremont Street
  • Immediate $750,000 waterproofing repairs proposed to prevent closure of Memorial Hall
  • DPW commits to chip seal mitigation tactics following resident damage complaints
  • Water Street sewer interceptor repair project scheduled to begin December 1st
  • Proposed e-bike regulations updated to include 16.5-year age minimum and licensing requirements
  • Moment of silence held for retired DPW foreman Forest Bardi

The meeting opened with a somber tribute to Forest Bardi, a 30-year veteran of the Department of Public Works who recently passed away, before the board confronted a massive backlog of infrastructure and facility failures. The most pressing concern centered on Memorial Hall, where Town Manager Derek Bundesey presented a grim reality of water intrusion and structural decay. Bundesey warned the board of the facility's precarious future, stating, I can't guarantee that this building is going to continue to stay open given the current state it's in. In response, the board reviewed a tiered proposal to spend approximately $750,000 on immediate foundation drainage and wall sealing to prevent electrical hazards. Deborah Iaquinto questioned the longevity of such an investment, asking, How much time would that $750,000 buy us?

The debate over the town’s roadway program intensified as residents voiced frustration over the use of chip sealing in residential neighborhoods. DPW Director Bill Coyle defended the process as a financial necessity, noting that while chip sealing costs $125,000 per mile, full reclamation costs $1.1 million. Coyle argued, We have to get out of this reclamation process, emphasizing the need for cost-effective maintenance. However, residents like Greg Tvaris shared a different perspective, telling the board, I'm still picking the rocks out of my driveway. Richard J. Quintal Jr. stood firmly with the residents, stating, I am not in favor of chips sealing residential neighborhoods. To bridge the gap, the board directed staff to consider 6-inch setbacks from road edges and enhanced cleanup for future projects.

Traffic safety was also on the docket, as the board weighed a resident petition to convert Fremont Street into a one-way path. Assistant DPW Director James Downey explained that the change would help navigate tight turns near Sandwich Street, noting, The one way will not hinder that; it would be in the direction of emergency response. After debating the duration of the trial, the board moved forward with a limited test period. Motion Made by William Keohan to authorize a 60-day experimental one-way for Fremont Street followed up by a public meeting with the select board to discuss the results of that experience and making sure that we notify the abutters and put out the proper signage to prepare people. Vote Passed 5-0. Deborah Iaquinto emphasized the importance of resident feedback, asking, Do we have a plan for going back out to the community?

The board also reviewed the evolving business plan for Memorial Hall, aiming to balance commercial success with its role as a cultural hub for the Plymouth Philharmonic. Memorial Hall Director Joe Goldberg highlighted recent revenue gains, asserting, We are the largest indoor concert facility if we want to put our flag in the ground. While Goldberg focused on the hall’s competitive edge, William Keohan pushed for a stronger partnership with the local orchestra, saying, I really truly believe that at this point that we need to reboot our discussion with them. Kevin B. Canty stressed that a clear vision must precede any massive renovations, stating, I think we need to know what we want Memorial Hall to be before we start funding repairs.

Finally, Town Counsel Kate McKay presented a revised draft for electric bicycle regulations, which included a minimum operating age of 16.5 years. David M. Golden Jr. expressed concerns regarding mobility access on scenic routes, noting, I would advocate for removing bike paths from this. Public commenters like Joe Paulson reminded the board of ongoing frustrations regarding town-owned property, telling the board, I did everything I needed to do... and the only thing that I got in response was the town manager asking me why I'm attending these meetings. The board concluded the session by scheduling further outreach to ensure the new bylaws reflect community needs.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:02 PM