Scituate officials have identified Aberdeen Drive as the preferred location for a new water storage tank, a critical infrastructure move that must precede the expensive rehabilitation of the town’s two aging existing tanks. During the April 7 Select Board meeting, Department of Public Works Director Kevin Cafferty explained that the town's current storage vessels, built in 1938 and 1966, require sandblasting, recoating, and structural upgrades totaling between $1.5 million and $2 million per tank. However, because both tanks are required to maintain pressure during peak summer demand, neither can be taken offline for the four months required for repairs without a third tank in place.

Ryan, a consultant from Apex/Environmental Partners, noted that the Aberdeen Drive site was chosen over a location near Doctors Hill because it offers better hydraulic stability and avoids the risk of stagnant water. Due to the site's elevation, the new tank would need to stand 118 feet high to maintain system pressure. Why not build a concrete tank? Member Nico Afanasenko asked, noting they often require less maintenance. Ryan explained that concrete tanks typically max out at 90 feet, meaning a steel structure is necessary for the Aberdeen site. Chair Andrew Goodrich sought clarification on the site selection, asking, So the preference is Aberdeen? Cafferty confirmed the choice, adding that the project would also allow the town to prioritize replacing old water mains in that neighborhood that have caused brown water issues for residents.

In a significant financial move to clean up the town’s receivables, the board voted to write off $236,971 in uncollectible ambulance debt. Finance Director Nancy Holt explained that the abatement covers outstanding charges from fiscal years 2022 and 2023 that are more than 48 months old. She noted that a previous data breach at the town’s third-party biller, Comstar, had already hampered collection efforts. It’s not financially responsible to keep this lingering on, Afanasenko said. I agree with recognizing the reality. Motion Made by N. Afanasenko to approve the recommended abatements for all outstanding ambulance charges from FY22 ($131,248.26) and FY23 ($105,722.76). Motion Passed 5-0.

The historical Mordecai Lincoln property received a major boost through a $19,700 donation of materials and labor for a kitchen renovation at the caretaker cottage. Local businesses, including Kitchen Spaces and Interiors, North River Remodeling, and Cam’s Appliance, collaborated on the design for the tiny space. Kitchen Spaces and Interiors is an amazing local showroom, Vice Chair Susan Harrison said, noting the donation was incredibly generous. A representative from Kitchen Spaces told the board, A whole group of us have gotten together on this... we expect to have the product on the job site in two weeks. Motion Made by J. Gilmore to accept a $19,700 donation from Kitchen Space and Interiors LLC for materials and installation for the kitchen at the Mordecai Lincoln caretaker cottage. Motion Passed 5-0.

The board also reviewed plans for a 13-spot parking lot and an ADA-compliant hard-pack gravel trail at the Mordecai Lincoln site. Project advocates Frank Snow and Penny Scott noted that the parking location on the south end of the field was chosen for safety and minimal impact, though an additional $7,000 to $8,000 in funding is still required for final design. Member Freya Schlegel expressed strong support for the accessible trail. There really aren't many places to walk in this town with a stroller, Schlegel said. A hard-pack trail would be great. Member James Gilmore agreed, stating, I love the ADA-compliant concept. We don't always have that option.

Local commerce saw several approvals, including a new Common Victualler license for Nonabella’s Italian Catering, which will take over the former XR Sandwiches location on the Driftway. I love that there’s going to be a deli in that space, Gilmore remarked. Motion Made by N. Afanasenko to approve a new Common Victualler license for Get Steamed Inc., DBA Nonabella’s Italian Catering, with hours of operation Sunday through Saturday, 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., pending Board of Health approval. Motion Passed 5-0. Longtime employee of Coffee Corner also received approval to take over the business from its retiring owners. Town Administrator James Boudreau emphasized the shop's local importance, jokingly noting, I go in every morning and the guys there tell me how to do my job. Without it, the town would come to a halt. Motion Made by J. Gilmore to approve a new Common Victualler license for Coffee Corner LLC. Motion Passed 5-0.

Community events scheduled for May 2 required coordination to avoid conflict with the 50th annual Ship Shape Day. The fourth annual Get to Greenbush neighborhood event and Spring Awakening at The Root both received permits after organizers agreed to stagger start times and offer incentives for residents to participate in the town-wide cleanup first. Shelly Buckley, representing the Greenbush group, said, We’re staggering our event to start later... the first 300 people at Ship Shape Day will get a postcard redeemable at Greenbush for tote bags or stickers. Motion Made by J. Gilmore to approve the special event Get to Greenbush on Saturday, May 2nd, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Motion Passed 5-0. A guest from The Root, Jan, described their community garden project: We’re starting a community garden to grow vegetables for the Scituate Food Pantry. Motion Made by J. Gilmore to approve the special event Spring Awakening at The Root on Saturday, May 2nd, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Motion Passed 5-0.

A proposal to restrict parking on Kent Street near St. Mary’s Church and update limits on Glades Road was tabled for further study. Residents had complained that Sunday church parking blocks sidewalks, but board members expressed hesitation about increasing enforcement without a site visit. I’m going to take a walk down there on Sunday, Schlegel said. If we make it no parking, we need to enforce it. Chair Goodrich added he was hesitant to add restrictions for a situation he didn't view as a massive traffic issue. Town Administrator Boudreau suggested the Traffic Rules committee look into allowing parking on the marsh side instead.

Boudreau concluded the meeting by reminding residents that the Annual Town Meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 13, at 7:00 p.m. in the high school gym. He also noted that spring water main flushing has begun and construction on the Humarock water line on Central Avenue is expected to take three to four weeks.