The meeting is officially called to order by the chair, who notes the remote format due to early voting at Town Hall. Attendance is taken, confirming all select board members are present. The chair checks for public comment, but no members of the public raise their hands, so the meeting proceeds to the next agenda item.

The town administrator, Steve, provides a comprehensive report covering several ongoing and upcoming town activities. He details the early voting schedule, the logistics for the state election, and the locations for precinct voting. Steve also updates the board on hydrant flushing, bagged leaf collection procedures, the affordable housing trust survey, and the upcoming Wreaths Across America ceremony, including how residents can participate or donate. He encourages residents to reach out with questions about any of these topics.

The chair notes she has no report for the evening and invites board members to share any updates. Gary mentions the weather-delayed Buker fun run happening the next morning, while other members indicate they have nothing to report. The board then moves on to the consent agenda.

The board reviews the consent agenda, which includes six sets of open session minutes and a one-day liquor license for the Hamilton-Wenham library auction. With no discussion or edits requested, a motion is made and seconded to approve the items as printed. The board votes unanimously in favor, and the motion passes.

The Council on Aging is scheduled to present an update, with both Jim Reynolds and Jeannie Moran present on the call. However, technical difficulties prevent Jim from unmuting or connecting properly, leading Jeannie to attempt to troubleshoot and consider having Jim use her computer. The board decides to move on to the next agenda item temporarily while the issue is resolved.

Steve discusses the implementation of two new positions for seniors at Town Hall as part of the senior tax work-off program. He explains the statutory basis for the program, the types of work seniors can do to receive tax abatements, and the financial thresholds involved. Board members ask clarifying questions about the program's structure and its integration into town operations.

Jim Reynolds is finally able to connect and begins the Council on Aging presentation. He outlines the mission of the department, emphasizing efforts to reduce isolation and promote healthy aging among seniors. Jim highlights the importance of responsible stewardship, ongoing building improvements, and introduces key staff members and their roles. He also presents demographic data and performance metrics, including transportation rides and program participation.

Jeannie Moran elaborates on the Council on Aging's outreach efforts, community partnerships, and innovative programs. She describes collaborations with local organizations such as the food pantry, Gordon College, and the community house, as well as intergenerational activities and volunteer involvement. The discussion covers the variety of programs offered, including exercise, arts, music, and support groups, and highlights the importance of communication through newsletters and potential broader outreach via local news.

Jim and Jeannie discuss operational improvements, such as the adoption of new software for tracking participation and the success of various events and activities. They address the distribution of newsletters, funding sources including grants and the formula grant, and the acquisition of a new van. The conversation also touches on the identification of at-risk individuals, the role of the social worker, and recent capital improvements to the Council on Aging facility. They conclude with remarks on the importance of their services and ongoing efforts to improve outreach and efficiency.

The board expresses appreciation for the Council on Aging's comprehensive presentation and the breadth of services provided to Wenham's seniors. Board members offer praise, echo the importance of outreach, and encourage continued collaboration with local news outlets for broader communication. The Council on Aging staff thank the board for the opportunity to present and invite board members to participate in future activities or offer suggestions.

Steve presents the draft FY28 budget memo, outlining the directive for departments to prepare level service, level funded budgets, with exceptions for contractually obligated increases. He explains changes to the budget process aimed at increasing efficiency, including earlier capital planning and coordination with the Finance Committee. The discussion includes questions about the timing and prioritization of large capital projects, such as water treatment, DPW expansion, and the community center, with Steve providing details on upcoming meetings and feasibility studies. The board votes to approve the budget memo.

Steve shares the comprehensive town meeting calendar, explaining its role in tracking statutory deadlines, coordinating meetings, and ensuring transparency. The calendar includes key dates for budget meetings, public hearings, and school district sessions, as well as placeholders for important land use hearings. Board members comment on the value of the calendar for transparency and organization, and Steve notes that no vote is required for its adoption.

The chair announces the next meeting date and encourages residents to participate in the upcoming election. She notes significant agenda items for future meetings, particularly regarding water issues. With no further comments or requests for agenda items, a motion to adjourn is made, seconded, and approved by roll call vote, officially ending the meeting.