The November 6, 2025 Meeting of the Barnstable Town Council was conducted in person. The public was able to attend in person or participate remotely in Public Comment or during a Public Hearing via Zoom. The public was able to view the meeting on Barnstable Government Access Xfinity Channel 8 or 1070 or in High Definition on Xfinity Channel 1072 or via the live stream through the Town website. Viewers can now watch BGA programming through our dedicated app available on both Apple and Android smartphones, as well as popular streaming platforms including Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire Stick. Town Council President Craig Tamash chaired the meeting and called the meeting to order. Town Clerk Ann Quirk took the Roll Call.
Town Councilor Betty Ludtke welcomed Corporal Robert F. Elliot to lead the Pledge of Allegiance. We are celebrating the Marines 250th birthday coming up on November 10th. The Marines first recruitment drive occurred in Philadelphia at Tun Tavern in 1775. The Marines remain 250 years young. Corporal Robert F. Elliot served in the First Reconnaissance Battalion Delta Company. He was born in New Rochelle, New York, and is one of three kids. He graduated high school in 1965 and spent two years working before voluntarily enlisting in the Marine Corps in September 1966. His goal was to serve in Vietnam and he achieved this. His basic training was in Paris Island, South Carolina. He transferred to Camp Lejune/Camp Geiger for infantry training. He wanted to go into force reconnaissance and the Marines knew they had a live one in Bob. He tried out for two days and was accepted into that program where he trained for another 12-15 months. After training above and below the sea, he operated as a safety diver for pilot training in New London, CT. He became an instructor alongside Seal Team 2 in Virginia Beach in 1967 and taught naval midshipmen cadets and reserve units in obstacle course and water endurance training. Part of his training included time in Virginia Beach for amphibious rubber boat training. Bob’s strong swimming and rowing skills were of value to him even in the cold springtime waters of Virginia. He recalls timing the waves so the boat didn’t capsize, making use of the lull between waves to row through rough seas. Mostly he wanted to avoid the boat into his face. He had further reconnaissance training in escape and evasion training. As a Lance Corporal, he was in California before finally landing in Vietnam in April of ‘68. Soon into his time, he was given his team known as May Fly. Although he would lead small teams up to eight on patrol, he was fully responsible for a team of 15. He was deployed on 15 patrols all told. He left Vietnam in September of that same year. Once home, Bob was eager to get back to his family and get further education. He can still recall a huge embrace from his dad like he had never felt before. His dad, Frank J Elliot, was a staff sergeant and landed on D-Day 3. Bob earned many educational degrees and accolades. He taught for 20 years, split between junior high and middle school. Bob enjoyed teaching kids to use their hands, their heads and their mouths. Bob permanently landed on Cape Cod in 1994 and started Vets Fishing with Vets in 2005. His membership with the Nam Vets, where he served on the Board of Directors twice, lead him to begin the veterans’ appreciation outing. Vets Fishing with Vets may have been Bob’s idea, but it’s success and longevity are a result of his team’s efforts, logistics, donations, and time. He is fortunate for the support of a few key long-term members who make this event a success 20 years on. The Helen H, under Captain Joe Huckemeyer, serves as the motor vessel and has served 1,500 or more vets from all branches of service. Bob has gained unique insight into the lives of those who have paid a higher price than him. For many of the vets, this is their first time setting foot on a boat. This boating excursion brings kindness, camaraderie and an opportunity for vets to all be on the same level with other vets. Bob is grateful to be here so close to this milestone in the Marines history and would like to thank past, present and future Marines.
President Tamash asked all to remain standing for a Moment of Silence in memory of Patti Lloyd. As Vice President of Sales for the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce, Patti Lloyd expanded the reach of the Cape Cod experience to national and international sports groups, including organizations in figure skating, hockey, baseball, soccer, volleyball, and golf. She worked closely with the Hyannis Youth & Community Center to attract large-scale regional, national, and international events to the venue and proudly represented Barnstable Golf at trade shows and conferences. Patti’s support for the Hyannis Youth & Community Center began during its construction, and whenever she was involved in an event, her dedication and exceptional customer service were evident from start to finish. Our deepest sympathies go out to Patti’s family and friends. President Tamash also offered this moment to JoAnn Brito Crippen. JoAnn was a classmate of President Tamash’s in the Barnstable High School Class of 1969. She was also a classmate of his at the Barnstable County Police Academy when it was in existence. JoAnn was the first female officer on the Barnstable Police Department and she was the first black female officer on the police department. We recognize her for those accomplishments and breaking that barrier. So a Moment of Silence for them and all who have passed in service to their country.
Next was Public Comment which was followed by Council Response to Public Comment.
President Tamash announced that Town Manager Communications for the period of October 22 – November 4, 2025 had been pre-recorded and was shown on our Government Access Channel prior to the meeting. The recorded version of Mr. Ells’s Town Manager Communications may be viewed here and the itemized list is shared below:
- The Town Manager in coordination with the Finance Department continues to follow the budget action calendar for FY 2027 operating and capital budgets. The Town Manager’s Fee Hearing for Calendar Year 2026 is scheduled for Thursday, November 13, 2025, at 11:00 AM. Town Manager and School Superintendent have met and agreed to an allocation of projected FY 2026 general fund revenue growth. A workshop with Town Council was held in September, focusing on fiscal policy and revenue strategy. We are planning for the next fiscal policy and revenue strategy workshop to occur in January of 2026. Town departments have submitted their list of proposed position changes for consideration to the Town Manager. Town departments will submit their capital improvement project data sheets to Town Manager this week for consideration. For information on our fiscal year budgets, please view the Town’s Open Budget website at http://budget.townofbarnstable.us.
- On October 31, 2025, the Town of Barnstable submitted comments to the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities regarding the Draft Regulations for Seasonal Communities (may be viewed here). This initiative of the Commonwealth is intended to recognize the distinct housing challenges faced by municipalities with seasonal economies. We share the goal of expanding affordable year-round housing opportunities while maintaining critical environmental protection for Cape Cod communities. Barnstable’s comments focus on ensuring that the proposed regulations are clear, internally consistent, and compatible with the Town’s existing zoning, environmental, and wastewater-management frameworks. We will keep you advised as these regulations are developed by the Commonwealth.
- For those who are interested, Town Council Agenda Item 2026-046 is a technical correction to Item 2026-014, which was approved by the Town Council on October 9, 2025, adopting the Stretch Code. This item changes the effective date of the Stretch Code from January 1, 2026, to July 1, 2026. It does not re-open the item.
- On October 31, 2025, I attended a blue economy employer forum, Wave Makers: Blue Economy Employer Forum, sponsored by the Cape Cod Blue Economy Foundation and the Center for Community and Professional Education at Cape Cod Community College. The forum focused on collaboratively identifying and prioritizing the key challenges and opportunities facing blue economy employers, helping to shape both short- and long-term local actions. The forum examined emerging trends in our region and identifying the skills needed to build a resilient, future ready workforce.
- The Town of Barnstable is currently updating its Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP) which is a tool through which a community plans for the future of its conservation and recreation resources. The OSRP will provide a blueprint to guide the Town’s plans, investments, policies and regulations in support of protecting and enhancing open space and recreation resources. A draft of the updated Open Space and Recreation Plan will be available for public review and comment in early November. The Plan will be accessible from the Town’s website and hard copies will be available at each of the Town’s libraries, the Barnstable Adult Community Center, the Hyannis Youth & Community Center and the Planning & Development office located at Town Hall. A community meeting will be held Wednesday, November 19th at 6:00 PM in person at Town Hall, 367 Main Street, Hyannis within the Hearing Room located on the 2nd floor. The objective of the meeting is to provide an overview of the draft Open Space and Recreation Plan and to obtain public comment as the Town progresses towards finalizing the Plan. Live Portuguese and Spanish interpretation will be available.
- Beginning Wednesday, November 12, 2025, the Town of Barnstable will advance Phase 3 construction of the Sandy Neck Beach Long-Term Coastal Resiliency Project. Phase 3 involves major construction which includes relocation of the Gatehouse. To safely facilitate this next phase of work, the following access limitations can be expected:
- Access to the Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) Trail will be temporarily closed while Gatehouse relocation and associated site work is completed.
- Weekend ORV Access may be available after the Gatehouse is relocated. ORV access information will be posted on the Sandy Neck Beach Park website and the MyBarnstable mobile app.
- Both the Upper and Lower Parking Lots will remain closed (including weekends).
- The Marsh Trail will remain open for foot access.
- Extremely limited parking will be available within the gravel lot located at the park entrance.
As construction progresses, it is recommended that visitors check notifications posted on the Sandy Neck Beach Park website (https://townofbarnstable.us/sandyneckpark/) or the MyBarnstable mobile app to review the latest access updates. Sandy Neck cottage owners may reach out to the Gatehouse at 508-362-8300 directly to coordinate access to cottages during this time. Active construction will continue through Spring 2026, with the project anticipated to be completed in time for the Summer 2026 season. Future construction activities and associated impacts will be communicated separately as schedules are confirmed.
- On October 28, 2025, the Town of Barnstable commenced the construction of the new Straightway Water Treatment Facility — a vital component of the Town-owned Barnstable Water System. The facility plays a critical role in delivering clean, reliable water to Hyannis residents and businesses. This project is a testament to the partnership between the Town, our Municipal Water Supply Board, the Commonwealth, our consultants, and operators with our residents and businesses to ensure clean, safe drinking water in Barnstable for generations to come. This is a long-term investment in the health, safety, and sustainability of our community. Our water resources are the life-blood of our community, and our water supplies are a priority in all we do as municipality. It has been 20 years since the Town purchased the privately owned water supply that serves Hyannis knowing it was at the end of its useful life with known quantity and quality issues. The Town transformed the utility into an award-winning operation. One that delivers excellent drinking water and fire protection, managed by the Town and responsible to the people we serve.
- Oyster season will open on Wednesday, November 5th, 2025. Please check the Town website for details.
Town Manager Mark Ells responded to Councilor questions.
Act on Public Session Minutes: October 23, 2025
President Tamash announced that as Councilor Felicia Penn has joined the meeting via Zoom all votes will be by roll call.
COMMUNICATIONS – from elected officials, boards, committees, and staff, commission reports, correspondence and announcements
Town Clerk Ann Quirk provided a summary of the November 4, 2025 Town election.
Sandy Neck Board
Tom O’Neill, Chair
Community Preservation Committee
Lindsey Counsell, Chair
Barnstable Municipal Water Supply Board
Samuel Wilson, Chair
The PowerPoint presentation may be viewed here.
ORDERS OF THE DAY
OLD BUSINESS
AGENDA ITEM 2026-042 Appropriation Order in the amount of $300,000 for the installation of fourteen (14) Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) and the acceptance of an equipment grant having an estimated value of approximately $300,000 from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) for fourteen (14) RRFBs.
Presented by Dan Santos, Director of Public Works. The item was approved.
Mr. Santos’s PowerPoint may be viewed here.
AGENDA ITEM 2026-043 Appropriation Order in the amount of $307,500 in Community Preservation Funds for the purpose of the Town acquiring a Conservation Restriction on a 25.74± acre retired cranberry bog located at 301 Parker Road in West Barnstable.
Presented by Lindsey Counsell, Chair of the Community Preservation Committee, and Janet Milkman, Barnstable Land Trust. The item was approved.
The slides that were presented may be viewed here.
AGENDA ITEM 2026-046 Amending the Code of the Town of Barnstable, Part I General Ordinances, Chapter 48 Stretch Energy Code, to Change the Effective Date.
Motion to amend the motion to an effective date to January 1, 2027 was approved.
Presented by Karen Nober, Town Attorney. The item as amended was approved.
AGENDA ITEM 2026-047 Order authorizing the grant of an easement to the Wianno Club for private sewer lines and the grant of an easement to NSTAR Electric Company for related electric service within certain town public ways in Osterville.
Presented by Tom LaRosa, First Assistant Town Attorney, and Kevin Klein of Stantec on behalf of the Wianno Club. The item was approved.
AGENDA ITEM 2026-048 Appropriation and Transfer order in the amount of $704,155 for the Osterville Playground Project located at 93 West Bay Road in Osterville.
Presented by Lindsey Counsell, Chair of the Community Preservation Committee, and Richard Ventrone, DPW Senior Architect. The item was approved.
AGENDA ITEM 2026-049 Appropriation Order in the amount of $94,966 for the purpose of funding the costs associated with hiring seven (7) new patrol officers in the Barnstable Police Department.
Presented by Chief Jean Challies, Barnstable Police Department. The item was approved.
AGENDA ITEM 2026-050 Allocation of Tax Levy Fiscal Year 2026 – Tax Factor.
The Public Hearing was opened and continued to the 11/20/2025 Town Council Meeting.
AGENDA ITEM 2026-051 Allocation of Tax Levy Fiscal Year 2026 – Residential Exemption.
The item was continued to the 11/20/2025 Town Council Meeting.
NEW BUSINESS
AGENDA ITEM 2026-052 Rescission of previously authorized Loan Orders.
Presented by Mark Milne, Finance Director. The item was approved.
AGENDA ITEM 2026-053 Appointments to a Board/Committee/Commission: Comprehensive Financial Advisory Committee: Rimas Paskorius, as a regular member to a term expiring 06/30/2028 and AGENDA ITEM 2026-056 Order accepting the provisions of Section 17C of Chapter 90 of the Massachusetts General Laws were referred to Second Readings on 11/20/2025.
AGENDA ITEM 2026-055 Appropriation Order in the amount of $600,000 in Community Preservation Funds for the purpose of the town acquiring a Conservation Restriction on a 13± acre property located at 3640 Falmouth Road in Marstons Mills was referred to a Public Hearing on 11/20/2025.
Councilor Gordon Starr stated that he filed a disclosure with the Town Clerk on this item.
AGENDA ITEM 2026-054 Resolve approving a Conservation Restriction to be granted by Marie Malo to Barnstable Land Trust, Inc. upon 5.58± acres of property at 755 Lumbert Mill Road in Marstons Mills.
Presented by Tom LaRosa, First Assistant Town Attorney, and Kelly Grant, Barnstable Land Trust. The item was approved.
The slides that were presented may be viewed here.
Recognition of Outgoing Councilors
President Tamash asked the outgoing Councilors to join him at the podium to recognize their years of service on the Barnstable Town Council with an engraved plaque.
Jeffrey Mendes (not present)
Paul Neary (8 years)
Paula Schnepp (8 years)
Dr. Kristin Terkelsen (2 years)
Councilors Neary, Schnepp, and Terkelsen were offered an opportunity to speak. Town Manager Mark Ells offered his thanks as well.
The next regularly scheduled Town Council Meeting will be held on Thursday, November 20, 2025. The public is able to view through Xfinity High-Definition Channel 1072 (or Xfinity Channel 8 or 1070) or Live Streaming on the Town of Barnstable’s website. Viewers can now watch BGA programming through our dedicated app available on both Apple and Android smartphones, as well as popular streaming platforms including Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire Stick. Real-time public comment may be addressed to the Barnstable Town Council utilizing the Zoom video link or telephone number and access meeting code which will be included on the Agenda. Written Comments may be submitted to: https://tobweb.town.barnstable.ma.us/boardscommittees/towncouncil/Town_Council/Agenda-Comment.asp. The meeting Agenda will be available on the Town of Barnstable’s website (www.townofbarnstable.us).
