Town Administrator James Boudreau announced the immediate demolition of the Cole Parkway harbor gazebo and the launch of annual municipal sticker sales during a Tuesday morning news update. Boudreau reported that an engineering evaluation confirmed the gazebo is in poor condition and must be removed this week, weather permitting. While the structure's future depends on a funding request in the spring capital plan, Boudreau assured residents that the town is prepared for the upcoming season. If for some reason the gazebo is not built in time for the summer concert series, we will have temporary staging available so you won't miss the summer concerts, he said.

The removal of the gazebo follows a February 9 decision by the Select Board and marks another step in the town’s broader efforts to refresh the harbor’s aesthetic, which includes the ongoing Pier 44 redevelopment project. Residents looking toward the warmer months can begin purchasing beach and transfer station stickers tomorrow at the Treasurer/Collector’s office or through the town website. Boudreau reminded the community that current transfer station stickers remain valid through March, while beach stickers will be required starting Memorial Day in May 2026. Non-resident beach stickers are limited to online purchases only, and all residents must provide valid vehicle registrations to secure their permits.

One unidentified board member highlighted the kickoff of the St. Patrick’s Day parade season, noting a fundraiser game night scheduled for this Sunday at the Drift In from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. The member also encouraged residents to participate in the parade’s "mayor’s race" via the official website to help fund the annual event. We're going to do our best not to run out of candy, at least in our half for the parade, the member noted, adding, so we're going to try to make sure that we're well stocked this year.

In public safety news, the town is officially transitioning to the "Smart 911" emergency alert system, replacing the previous Code Red service. Boudreau urged all residents to register their contact information and specific addresses on the town website to ensure they receive localized alerts regarding water pipe breaks or construction. Additionally, the Commission on Disabilities has funded new communication boards for Scituate first responders to assist individuals who use alternative forms of communication. These tools, developed by assistive technology specialist Tara Fellini Sweetster and local police officers, are also being deployed at the Scituate Public Library and within the school district.

Boudreau also issued a reminder that nomination papers are now available for the annual town election, which was previously moved to Saturday, June 6, 2026, to avoid scheduling conflicts. Residents are also asked to return the 2026 municipal census as soon as possible. For those looking to support local families, the Scituate Food Pantry is reporting an urgent need for specific staples, including Spam, canned potatoes, clam chowder, and Rice-A-Roni sides, which can be dropped off at the pantry or at Village Market and Shaw's collection bins.