COHASSET — As summer winds down, Cohasset officials are turning their attention to key infrastructure projects and community health initiatives, highlighted in Town Manager Chris Senior's weekly update on August 15. A major focus is the upcoming public forum concerning the Recycling Transfer Facility (RTF), scheduled for Monday, August 18th, at 6:15 p.m. in the Wilcutt Commons at 91 Sohier Street. Senior encouraged residents to attend and learn about significant proposed changes. "This community conversation will provide residents an opportunity to learn more about the proposed changes to the RTF structure, fees, and the ongoing improvements that are happening there," he stated, adding that the Select Board will revisit the topic on September 9. Progress at the facility is already visible, with a new area recently paved to create an "RTF village" for the boutique and scout recycling programs.

Joining the update was Pam Fay, Director of Public Health, who provided an overview of the town’s new Rental Safety Inspection Program. Launched in April, the program aims to ensure all rental units in Cohasset, from large apartment complexes to single-family homes, meet health and safety standards. Fay reported that the initiative has been successful, with nearly 75 inspections completed. The goal, she explained, is to check everything "so that everybody is health and safety and appliances work and smoke detectors work." Fay noted the positive reception from property owners, stating, "Overall it's been very well received and it's been a success so far." Senior urged landlords to get their registration forms in and schedule inspections "so everyone will be safe here in Cohasset."

The update also celebrated community members and looked ahead to upcoming events. The Cohasset Recreation summer program concluded with the presentation of the John Worley Scholarship Award to counselor Leah Squatrito, who is heading to New York University. "While all the counselors did great work, Leah stood out exceptionally this year and she was recognized as this year's winner," Senior said. For younger residents, a special "ninja warrior" and "survivor" program will run from August 25th to the 29th.

In a more solemn observance, Safe Harbor Cohasset and the Anchor of Hull will host the 8th annual candlelight vigil for International Overdose Awareness Day on Wednesday, August 27th, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on the Town Common. Senior explained the event "aims to reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths, sharing the grief felt by families and friends, and raising awareness about overdoses and overdose prevention." On a final note, all three local beaches have passed water quality tests and are open for the weekend.