Select Board Clerk Jamie Gilmore opened the first news update of 2026 by expressing gratitude to the Department of Public Works for their tireless efforts during the winter holidays. "A big thank you to our DPW teams for keeping our roads clear and safe over these holidays, especially even New Year's Eve," Gilmore stated. Looking toward the week ahead, Gilmore highlighted the upcoming Select Board meeting on January 6, which will feature discussions on two citizen petitions. Residents will present a proposal for an "exercise zone" on Glades Road, while State Representative Patrick Kearney will bring forward a proposed definition for commercial fishermen. The board is also scheduled to review a new traffic plan for the complex five-way intersection at First Parish Road and Cudworth Road. Gilmore noted, "It'll be an informative, productive meeting and you can attend always welcome in person at the town hall or on Zoom."

Town Administrator James Boudreau provided an update on several active infrastructure projects, including the Glades Road revetment repair and the Oceanside seawall. While the revetment project has forced a portion of Glades Road to become one-way through March, Boudreau reported that the seawall project is advancing steadily. "The rebound forms have been installed for the next section wall. They're hoping to get that poured this week," Boudreau noted, adding that weather conditions appear favorable for the concrete work. Boudreau also announced that Widow’s Walk Golf Course has transitioned to its winter schedule, allowing residents to walk dogs on the property provided they remain leashed and stay off the greens, tea boxes, and sand traps to prevent turf damage.

School Committee member Janice Lindlum reported that students returned to classrooms today, with midyear exams at the high school scheduled to begin on January 13. Lindlum emphasized the importance of community participation in the ongoing elementary school project. "We encourage everyone to go to the scituateredistricting.com website and complete the feedback form," Lindlum said, noting that public input is vital for the redistricting process. The update concluded with a call for donations to the Scituate Food Pantry. Boudreau shared that the pantry "has experienced unprecedented need this holiday season," specifically requesting items such as canned chicken, spam, coffee, and paper towels to restock their shelves.