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<br />Select Board <br />January 26, 2026 <br />Minutes <br />Catherine Laurent reviewed the goals of the Mashpee River Fishway Improvement Project. <br />Laurent stated that the proposed river alignment follows the alignment approved and <br />dredged in 1992 by the Massachusetts DEP and the local Conservation Commission, and <br />that no historical documentation beyond the 1992 approved plans was identified. Probing <br />conducted during the current level of design identified consistent sandy subsurface <br />conditions with no evidence of cobble or gravel typical of a historic riverbed. <br />Board members discussed the distinction between probing and subsurface borings and <br />the potential value of additional scientific analysis. The EOC recommended that the Town <br />consider engaging an independent consultant with demonstrated expertise in <br />hydrogeology or fluvial geomorphology, ideally with experience in similar projects in <br />neighboring Cape Cod communities, to further assess historic river alignment and support <br />community understanding. <br />The Board discussed public interest in distinguishing between river restoration versus <br />relocation, the historic context of the Mill Pond, impacts to abutters, and the importance of <br />expert-supported data to inform future decision-making. Laurent confirmed that the <br />proposed river alignment is entirely within Town property and that abutters have been <br />engaged throughout the outreach process. <br />The Select Board expressed interest in further defining the scope, cost, and funding <br />eligibility for engaging an environmental specialist, subject to grant requirements and <br />project constraints. <br />Motion made by Selectwoman Kelley-Wilson to support the Environmental Oversight <br />Committee recommendation that the Town consider engaging an independent <br />consultant with demonstrated expertise in hydrogeology or fluvial geomorphology, <br />ideally in experience in similar projects in neighboring Cape Cod communities. <br />Motion seconded by Selectman Weeden. <br />Vote: 5-0 Unanimous <br />Roll Call Vote <br />Selectwoman Wyman-Colombo-yes <br />Selectman Weeden-yes <br />Selectman Cotton-yes <br />Selectwoman Kelley-Wilson-yes <br />Selectman Richardson- yes <br />Presentation by JBCC Joint Oversight Group – Paul Renden, JBCC Executive O?icer <br />4 <br /> <br /> <br />