Residents may have noticed a red balloon floating over Willcutt Park this week, a test run for a new cellular tower aimed at solving persistent service gaps in the northern part of town. In his weekly update on Friday, August 1, Town Manager Chris Senior highlighted the test as a key step in a project to address public safety concerns caused by poor connectivity. "That's an effort to improve the very bad cell service across the north part of town, which has caused some serious public safety issues," Senior stated. He noted the project will move through the conservation permitting process with the goal of having the tower installed later this fall.

Looking ahead, the Cohasset Select Board is gearing up for a busy fall, with preparations for the Town Meeting already underway. High on the agenda is the new Public Safety Building proposed for 135 King Street, with updated cost estimates being reviewed. "With bids expected back in early September, the board has been discussing cost estimates and will do so again at their meeting on August 5th," Senior explained. The future of the town's Recycling and Transfer Facility (RTF) will also be a topic of discussion at the upcoming meeting.

The town also celebrated the professional achievements of two key staff members. Facilities Director Nick Barardi and Assistant Director Jake Ellis recently earned their certifications as building operators from National Grid after completing rigorous testing. "We're excited about both Jake and Nick receiving that designation, which will help them do better work for all of us here in Cohasset, maintaining our public facilities," Senior said, praising their dedication.

In community news, Cohasset Safe Harbor announced that registration for its youth ambassador program will run from August 2nd to August 22nd. The program empowers students in grades 7-12 to become peer leaders in substance abuse prevention and mental health advocacy. Senior also issued a reminder that first quarter property taxes are due by the close of business on Friday, August 1st. He concluded on a high note, confirming that all three town beaches have passed water quality tests and are open for the weekend.