The Cohasset Select Board meeting on Tuesday was dominated by two major developments: a substantial cost increase for the new Public Safety Building and an unprecedented tie vote for a key Planning Board appointment. Interim Town Manager Michelle Leary presented an updated estimate for the public safety facility at 135 King Street, revealing the total project cost is now projected at approximately $27 million. This will require an additional $17 million appropriation at the November Special Town Meeting, on top of the $10.4 million previously approved. Leary noted that while the initial estimates were as high as $28 million, the team has worked to reduce the building's footprint, bringing the cost per square foot to $915, a figure she described as competitive. Cohasset Police Chief William Quigley underscored the urgency, stating, “We are not in compliance with state regulations... The best time to build a police station was yesterday. It's not getting any cheaper.” Chair Ellen Maher acknowledged the challenge ahead, saying, “We have to really thoughtfully, methodically, outline where we were... and where we are now and why. And it's going to be our job to convey that message.”

In a moment of civic gridlock, the joint appointment for an associate member of the Planning Board ended in a 5-5 tie between candidates Nino D'Nuno, a local builder, and David McNulty, an attorney. The Select Board voted 3-2 in favor of D'Nuno, while the Planning Board voted 3-2 for McNulty. Board members expressed their reasoning for the split decision. “My choice is Mr. D'Nuno... I think a builder would help out in a lot of situations because they would know the ins and the outs of how to build things,” said Select Board member David Farrag. Clerk Julie Rollins agreed, stating, “I think it’s important to have a builder on the board with that sort of experience.” Conversely, member Chris Plecs supported McNulty, explaining, “From my experience on the planning board, the issues that we're trying to work out tend to be more legal and less about how you're going to build it.” Faced with the impasse, the boards decided to postpone the decision until they receive guidance from town counsel.

The board also managed a lengthy agenda of committee appointments, event permits, and community updates. Jackie Dormer of the Historical Commission presented the newly installed signs for the Captain's Walk along the harbor, a project celebrating the town's maritime history. Vice Chair Paul Grady praised the effort, saying, “A town that doesn't know its history has no future. And because of these groups here in town… it's just an incredible enhancement for the history of Cohasset for everyone to enjoy.” The board moved to approve a large slate of new and returning volunteers for various town committees. Motion Made by Ellen Maher to appoint the entire slate of reappointments and appointments as read. The motion was seconded and the vote was passed 5-0. Permits were also granted for several 2025 community events, including the annual Greek Festival, the Cape Cod Bay Challenge paddleboard fundraiser, and the Cohasset Maritime Institute’s Minot Light Roundabout race. The meeting was adjourned at 9:59 p.m.