The Harwich Select Board signaled growing reluctance to fund a high-priced roof replacement at Monomoy Regional High School during its Monday night meeting, citing the town's razor-thin property tax levy capacity and a lack of collaboration from the Town of Chatham. The proposed $11.8 million project, which qualifies for a $3.9 million state grant, would leave taxpayers in the two towns to shoulder approximately $7.8 million. However, a $315,000 premium for a metal roof over traditional asphalt shingles triggered sharp pushback from board members already wary of the town's looming $980,000 school assessment gap.

Superintendent Scott Carpenter and Business Manager Mike McMillan presented the project, arguing that the metal roof recommended by the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) is more durable against the harsh winds of Chatham and would last twice as long as shingles. The architects felt that a metal roof would be far more durable given the wind that area of Chatham faces, Carpenter explained, adding that the district wants to secure the maximum state grant possible by including the upgrade now. McMillan noted that while the metal option remains in the proposal, we can take it out later, but we can't put it back in if we don't ask for it now.

Member Mark Kelleher remained unconvinced by the long-term durability argument, noting that asphalt is used successfully on other municipal buildings and the local fish pier. An asphalt roof would cover the essential part. Metal roof is very nice to have, but is it essential? Kelleher asked. Instead of spending the three or $400,000 for the metal roof, we can provide an asphalt roof that will give 25 years of safe environment. I think we owe it to the taxpayers to save some money. Vice Chair Peter Piekarski echoed these concerns, questioning the logic of a 50-year roof on a building that is already six decades old. I struggle with being put in this box that an individual at the MSBA wants to be a good steward of the Commonwealth's money. We want to be stewards with the Harwich taxpayers' money, Piekarski said.

The debate extended beyond shingles to the fraught regional relationship with Chatham. Member Jeffrey Handler expressed deep frustration with the neighboring town’s refusal to negotiate the regional funding formula, suggesting he might vote against the entire project to force a conversation. By ignoring the select board, you are ignoring the voters. Until we become collaborative, I'm a 'No' on the whole project of the roof, Handler stated. Chair Donald Howell connected the project to the town's overall fiscal health, noting Harwich is approaching its legal levy limit while facing massive sewer construction costs. We have to be able to afford to fund both the capital needs and the operational needs of this district or we have failed the kids, Howell cautioned. Following the discussion, the board reaffirmed its stance on the regional tension. Motion Made by J. Handler to approve and sign the letter to the Chatham Select Board regarding regional school funding. Motion Passed (5-0).

Beyond the school budget, the board prepared for a digital shift at the upcoming Annual Town Meeting. Town Clerk Emily Mitchell and Sean McPeek of Meridia demonstrated the electronic voting clickers that will replace traditional voice votes and card-raising for sensitive items. McPeek explained that the devices are secure and operate on a closed radio frequency. The system is not connected to the internet by any means. There's no Wi-Fi, there's no Bluetooth, McPeek said, noting that the voting window lasts roughly 30 seconds. Town Moderator Michael Ford emphasized that the change is driven by a desire for efficiency and voter privacy. There were a lot of people who felt more comfortable voting in this fashion so that they could keep their vote private, Ford noted.

The town’s housing strategy also took center stage as officials discussed securing local preference for the Pine Oaks 4 affordable housing project. Town Administrator James McGrail reported that the town still has time to finalize its request for a 70% local preference, as funding for the project has not yet been finalized. We can submit a letter now and submit another letter in the future, McGrail suggested. Member Handler urged the board to remain aggressive on the issue, stating it's our responsibility to do the absolute best we can to make sure that local preference is given. Chair Howell warned that the ability to guarantee local spots often depends on whether federal or state funding is used, advising against making promises the town cannot legally enforce.

In municipal staffing news, the board celebrated the closure of a massive administrative hurdle. We have now completed all necessary documents and signed all necessary documents to have closed out every single one of the eight labor contracts that were open at the beginning of the year 2025, Howell announced. Following that update, the board addressed pay for non-union employees. Motion Made by P. Piekarski to approve the fiscal year 2027 personnel bylaw compensation table for personnel bylaw positions as outlined in the packet with an annual cost of living adjustment at 3%. Motion Passed (5-0). James McGrail noted the 3% COLA is consistent with what union employees received in their contracts.

The board also continued its compliance hammer approach to committee membership, reviewing a list of non-compliant volunteers. Member Handler reported that the number of members failing to complete ethics training or take their oaths has dropped from 71 to roughly 16. However, Handler recommended immediate action for those who have failed to finalize their status. There are five members who are participating who have not been sworn in. My recommendation is to remove them from the committee effective immediately, Handler said. The board also prepared for a joint meeting with the Charter Commission in May. Commission member Richard Westack welcomed the coordination, stating We would love to have you come and give us input before the final charter document reaches voters.

Other business included updates on the spring herring run, with Natural Resources Director Stephanie Ryan reporting over 50,000 fish have been counted so far. We're in good shape tracking a little bit better than last year, Ryan said. The board also approved several routine items and resignations. Motion Made by P. Piekarski to approve the resignation of Dorothy Howell from the Pleasant Bay Alliance effective immediately. Motion Passed (5-0). Chair Howell noted for the record he is not related to the appointee. Additionally, the board accepted a charitable contribution. Motion Made by P. Piekarski to accept a gift for the Harwich Recreation Department from the Harwich Cranberry Festival in the amount of $2,000. Motion Passed (5-0). Infrastructure work also moved forward as the board authorized minor utility changes. Motion Made by P. Piekarski to grant permission to NStar Electric Company to install one new fully owned pole on Long Pond Drive. Motion Passed (5-0).

Finally, the board cleared the way for several upcoming community events. Motion Made by P. Piekarski to approve a special permit application for Cape Cod senior softball for a one-day liquor license for an event on May 29, 2026. Motion Passed (5-0). A similar approval was granted for the rugby club. Motion Made by P. Piekarski to approve a special permit for Cape Cod Rugby for one-day liquor licenses for events on April 18 and April 25, 2026. Motion Passed (5-0).