Dear Hingham Residents,
I hope this newsletter finds you well as we transition into the beautiful season of autumn. This is the first of a monthly update from my office that I hope will prove helpful for residents to stay informed. As always, please reach out with questions and feedback.
Goals for FY24
The Select Board has defined the following as Goals for FY24 (July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024):
- Build the Team – primarily by filling existing vacancies
- Drive Process Improvement – focus on communications, implementing new software/technology, and updating policies
- Identify Revenue Opportunities – through economic development and non-tax revenue sources identified by the Sustainable Budget Task Force
- Implement the Master Plan – including climate resiliency and wellness for all ages
- Manage Large Capital Projects/Infrastructure Investments – new elementary school and public safety facility construction, senior center siting and feasibility study, Harbor wharf wall and Route 3A sewer improvements, climate action planning, ADA improvements, traffic calming measures, and many others
Large Capital Project Updates
New Elementary School: The School Building Committee provided a recent update on building progress (watch video of 9/12/23 Select Board Meeting, starting at 09:30). The project remains on schedule and on budget. Also, additional MSBA reimbursement is expected due to new legislation.
Public Safety Facility: The project remains on schedule and on budget. Building progress at 335 Lincoln Street can be seen on the Public Safety Project Update page.
Senior Center/Center for Active Living: The Senior Center Building Committee is starting its work to evaluate 2 potential sites for the new center, Town Hall and Bare Cove Park.
MBTA Communities
Community Planning Director Emily Wentworth provided an update on MBTA Communities to the Select Board on July 25th. The next steps including working with a consultant to draft potential zoning by-law changes by December 1st. Any zoning by-law would need to be approved by a 2/3 vote at Town Meeting in April.
Road Safety
Following Town Meeting’s action in the spring, the Select Board has voted to enact 25 mph speed limits in thickly settled and business areas around Hingham. Speed limits have been changed and signage has been installed in many neighborhoods. The Select Board is continuing to evaluate traffic calming measures in the downtown area, with the advisement of the Traffic Committee and our Historic Administrator.
Plastic Water Bottle Ban
Single serve plastic water bottles will no longer be sold or distributed at municipal buildings or events, including schools. New hydration stations have been installed at all schools and Carlson Field. Education leading up the retail ban in January 2024 has begun.
Upcoming Town Events
Veterans Day Event: November 11th at 11 AM, Town Hall. All are invited.
Save the Date: 2024 Town Meeting: April 22nd at 7 PM, Hingham High School
Please email me at kleinl@hingham-ma.gov with any comments or questions.
Best Regards,
Liz Klein
Select Board, Chair