Scituate has secured a $5 million MassWorks infrastructure grant to fund the construction of the North Scituate sewer system, marking one of the largest state awards given this year. Town Administrator James Boudreau announced the funding during the Monday morning news update, noting the grant will be instrumental in addressing long-term storage and expansion needs in the northern end of town. Boudreau credited the success to a collaborative effort by town staff and consultants, stating, "Congratulations to Cory Miles, Karen Joseph, Kevin Cathy, Sean McCarthy, Will Brandon, and our consultant... it was the second highest grant award this year, so that’s fantastic."

While the infrastructure news provided a boost to the town’s outlook, Boudreau also issued an urgent call for community support regarding the Scituate Food Pantry. The facility is currently grappling with "unprecedented demand and uncertainty" triggered by a government shutdown that has disrupted SNAP benefits for many local families. Boudreau emphasized that the pantry is open to all residents with proof of residency, urging neighbors to be generous during the holiday season. "If you're at risk of losing SNAP benefits, the food pantry is here to help," Boudreau said, listing high-priority donation items including stuffing, canned yams, and coffee to help families through the coming months.

Select Board member Nico Aonoseno highlighted several opportunities for residents to influence town policy and support local students. He specifically pointed to the ongoing Scituate community survey, which is available on the town’s website via a red banner. "There are only a handful of questions and your feedback will help make this town even better," Aonoseno said, encouraging residents to take five minutes to participate. He also reminded families that the high school is hosting a "Welcome Aboard" night for eighth graders this Thursday, followed by a home "Elite 8" playoff football game against Walpole on Friday night.

Public works projects remain in high gear across the community. Boudreau reported that crews are currently working at the Rotary to connect the pumping station to a new raw water line for the water treatment plant. Residents near the coast should expect activity at the end of Gannet Road near the Glades, where four parking spaces have been fenced off to facilitate seawall repairs. Additionally, geotechnical investigations for the North Scituate sewer expansion are underway on Country Way, Branch Street, and Beaver Dam Road, while water main liner installations on Tilden Road may require some residents to temporarily limit water usage.

The town will observe Veterans Day tomorrow, Tuesday, Nov. 11, with a ceremony at the Senior Center beginning at 10:45 a.m. at the flagpole. Boudreau reminded residents that while Town Hall is closed, the transfer station will also be shuttered for the holiday. Aonoseno closed the update by encouraging the community to celebrate the upcoming Artisan Fair on Saturday at the high school gym, which features over 100 vendors and benefits Scituate High School opportunities and resources for education (SHORE).