Cohasset officials are seeing a glimmer of hope regarding the school district's looming budget crisis, as unanticipated retirements and newly identified funds are expected to significantly reduce the number of planned staff cuts. During Tuesday’s Select Board meeting, School Committee member Craig Mlen shared that collaboration with town hall has uncovered additional funds through overlay accounts and healthcare savings that will assist the schools. Mlen noted that unanticipated retirements amongst the faculty... will enable the school district to significantly and materially mitigate the amount of educator reductions that we were anticipating. Most human beings will be retained by the district.

The news follows weeks of community concern regarding a potential $1.3 million shortfall in school funding. Residents attending the meeting expressed relief but urged long-term fiscal planning to avoid future "funding chasms." Resident Dan Mcwigan told the board, I don't move to this town for small taxes. People come for the schools, the beaches, and the quality of life. I would love for the leadership of this town to be as proactive as possible to prevent getting this close to major cuts. Cassandra Dragon Arshambo added that if the town's levy growth cannot maintain services, officials should be transparent about an operational override, stating, If the town chooses not to pursue an override, it should be acknowledged plainly that the resulting reductions represent a policy decision to provide fewer educational services.

Town Manager Michelle Leary presented a high-level overview of the proposed $43 million general fund budget for fiscal year 2027. The budget allocates 61% of funds, or $26 million, to the schools, with the remaining 39% or $17 million directed toward municipal services. Both sectors represent a 4% increase over previous years, driven largely by fixed costs like health insurance, pensions, and utilities. However, balancing the budget necessitates reductions on the municipal side, including moving the communications specialist to part-time status, eliminating an assistant planner position, and closing the Paul Pratt Memorial Library on Sundays.

Chair Ellen Maher observed that the town’s fiscal constraints are rooted in state-level policy, noting that Prop 2 and a half doesn't keep up with inflation. Maher suggested it is time to lobby state representatives, as the law has outlived its practical applicability. Vice Chair Paul Grady supported looking toward a more sustainable future, remarking, I think a five-year forecast looking at an override is the correct way of doing things instead of just throwing it out and hoping it sticks.

In a move to formalize labor costs, the Board approved several collective bargaining agreements. Motion Made by P. Grady to approve the memorandum of agreement between the Town of Cohasset and the Cohasset Police Association and EPBA Local 84. Motion Passed 5-0. Additionally, Motion Made by D. Farrag to approve the memorandum of agreement between the Town of Cohasset and AFSCME Council 93, Local 1395, Unit B (Public Works). Motion Passed 5-0. The board also Motion Made by D. Farrag to approve the memorandum of agreement between the Town of Cohasset and the United Federation of Police Officers Local 143 covering July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2028. Motion Passed 5-0.

The town’s infrastructure and emergency readiness were also under scrutiny following a significant recent snowstorm. Emergency Management Director Glen Pratt requested a formal state of emergency declaration to facilitate budget overspending and FEMA reimbursement. Pratt noted this would be his 20th application to FEMA, explaining the declaration gives us the authority to overspend the budget if we have to, sets aside some of the permitting timelines temporarily, and sets aside some procurement requirements. Motion Made by D. Farrag to approve the emergency declaration. Motion Passed 5-0.

DPW Director Brian Joyce reviewed the department's level-funded budget, noting that while the department is maintaining core services, some aesthetics will suffer. One thing we won't be able to service is landscaping and mulch beds around schools and town buildings, Joyce said. He highlighted the rising cost of tree maintenance, telling Chair Maher that with an extra $100,000 he would focus on removing diseased ash trees, which can cost up to $8,000 per tree. Member David Farrag questioned the state of the town's equipment, leading to a discussion about replacing a 1997 tractor and message boards that are over 25 years old.

In technology news, CIO Ron Menard reported that IT services spend approximately 70% of their time supporting school infrastructure. Menard highlighted cost-saving measures, including a $26,000 reduction by eliminating third-party firewall services. While the town has avoided major cyber attacks recently, Menard warned that we see attempts of attacks every single day.

The Select Board also received an update from the Village Historical District Study Committee. Chair S. Woodworth Chitik worked to dispel rumors that a new district would force property owners to mimic the 1700s. The first misconception is that we're going to insist downtown becomes Colonial Williamsburg. No, absolutely not, Chitik said. It's to preserve whatever exists there... it's not about restoration; it's about preservation. Member Farrag voiced concerns about potential modern "steel and glass" developments at sites like the local gas station, which Chitik noted could be addressed by the district to ensure projects are appropriate for the neighborhood.

Finally, the Board turned its attention to the upcoming Town Meeting warrant, which has grown to 28 articles. Key items include a placeholder for the design of the Elm Street fire station and the ongoing Public Safety Building project at 135 King Street. Chair Maher emphasized the need for consistency regarding the King Street site, stating, It surprises me there are still calls for other options. It's been asked and answered multiple times. We need to stay focused on 135 King Street. Member Farrag echoed the sentiment, worrying about the impact of the delays on staff. What are we doing to the morale of our police force by rehashing this? Other departments will take our guys, he said. The Board concluded the session by approving the list of vacancies for the May 9 town election. Motion Made by D. Farrag to approve the vacancies to appear on the ballot on May 9, 2026. Motion Passed 5-0.