The Cohasset Select Board affirmed a single tax rate for all property classes for fiscal year 2026 and gave the green light to two popular town events during its November 18 meeting. The session also featured robust discussions on the future of the Recycling Transfer Station (RTF), progress on the new public safety building, and the town’s ongoing efforts to fill key staff positions. Town Assessor Rachel Carlile presented the annual tax classification data, noting that the average single-family tax bill is projected to increase by approximately $572, or 3.5%, while the tax rate itself will decrease by 23 cents to $11.35. Following the presentation, the board voted to maintain its traditional single-rate structure. Motion Made by David Farrag that the town of Cohasset does not adopt a residential exemption for fiscal year 2026. Motion Passed 4-0. A subsequent Motion Made by David Farrag for the town of Cohasset to adopt a residential factor of one, a single tax rate for fiscal year 2026. Motion Passed 4-0. Finally, a Motion Made by David Farrag that the town of Cohasset does not adopt the small commercial exemption for fiscal year 2026. Motion Passed 4-0.

Community traditions were a major focus, with the board unanimously approving permits for the Cohasset Triathlon. Organizer Bill Bernett announced the 18th annual adult race is planned for June 28, 2026, and the kids' race for August 1, 2026. “It's a lot of the details and keeping it high-end every year… it's important to me because I love this town,” Bernett said. Board member David Farrag praised the event, stating, “The Cohasset triathlon and then the kids triathlon… has turned into be one of the signature events in Cohasset and brings so many people to the town.” The board also welcomed a collaboration between the Paul Pratt Memorial Library and the Cohasset Historical Society for an extended Storywalk on the Town Common from December through May. The installation will feature a special exhibit on Cohasset’s role in the Revolutionary War to align with the 250th anniversary of America. Katie Holden of the Historical Society said the group would like to “focus on the history of how the Revolutionary War impacted Cohasset.” Both the library's and the historical society's use of the common were approved unanimously.

A proposal by Farrag to create a citizen advisory group for the RTF sparked considerable debate. While Farrag argued a committee could help “unearth all of the costs” and improve management, other members expressed reservations. “I'm worried that you run into the risk of having too many cooks in the kitchen,” said Vice Chair Paul Grady. Member Chris Plecs agreed, adding, “I'd rather hear citizen input from the citizen directly.” The discussion was tabled for a future meeting. Later, Interim Town Manager Michelle Leary provided an update on the 135 King Street public safety building, noting the working group is considering making the building a police headquarters for now, with a pad ready for a future fire substation if needed. Chair Ellen Maher voiced concern about the potential shift, stating, “We have spent two years talking about how important it is to have a fire annex up there… it shouldn't be impacted by staff, by other issues that might be out there.”

The board also filled two committee vacancies, appointing residents who stepped up to serve. Paula Almea, a resident of over 45 years, was appointed to the Cultural Council. Motion Made by David Farrag to appoint Paula Almea to the Cohasset Cultural Council. Motion Passed 4-0. Owen Barry, who spoke up at the recent Town Meeting, was appointed to the Post-Employment Benefits Committee. "I hope I have an opportunity to work on something that's going to have a long lasting positive effect for the town," Barry said. Motion Made by David Farrag to appoint Mr. Owen Barry to the post-employment benefit committee. Motion Passed 4-0. The meeting concluded after approvals of the October 28 and November 3 meeting minutes. The meeting was adjourned at 8:22 p.m.