This week in Scituate, town officials shared a range of updates highlighting ongoing projects, safety advisories, and community achievements. From the town being recognized as one of the safest communities in the nation to updates on the Water Treatment Plant and plans for historic preservation, there’s plenty to celebrate and act on. Residents are also encouraged to participate in a critical district-wide vote on the new South Shore Regional Vocational Technical High School building project, set for this Saturday, January 25. Read on for key updates and opportunities to get involved.
Community Recognitions and Encouragements
Scituate has been honored by U.S. News & World Report as one of the Top 20 Safest Communities to live in 2025. Residents are encouraged to participate in upcoming town meetings and consider joining local committees to further community engagement.
Public Safety Advisory
Due to the installation of aerators aimed at improving water quality in the Old Oaken Bucket reservoir, residents are advised to avoid venturing onto the ice. The aerators can cause thin and unsafe ice conditions. Warning signs have been posted in the area.
Weather Alert
The town is experiencing the coldest weather of the season, with wind chills potentially dropping below 0°F. Residents are urged to limit outdoor exposure for themselves and their pets and to take precautions against frozen pipes. Additional information is available on the town’s website.
Water Treatment Plant Progress
Significant progress continues at the Water Treatment Plant, with ongoing excavation for the building's foundation, formwork, rebar placement, and installation of subsurface utilities.
Mordecai Lincoln Estate Auction
The Mordecai Lincoln Estate auction is now live on Auctions International. Interested individuals can view items and place bids through the provided link.
Planning Board Public Hearing
The Planning Board will continue its public hearing for 2025 Annual Town Meeting Articles, including discussions on Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), on Thursday, January 23, at 6:30 PM in the Select Board Meeting Room at Town Hall. Written comments can be submitted to the Planning Office.
ADA Grant Awarded
Scituate has been awarded a grant of $138,103 from the Massachusetts Office on Disabilities for ADA improvements at Wampatuck School.
Real Estate Tax Reminder
Residents are reminded that real estate taxes are due on February 3, 2025.
Historic Preservation Workshop
The Scituate Historical Commission is hosting a community workshop on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM at the Scituate Town Library, 84 Branch Street. The workshop aims to discuss Scituate’s historic resources and approaches to historic preservation. Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in the discussion.
South Shore Vocational Technical High School Building Project Vote
A district-wide vote on the new South Shore Regional Vocational Technical High School building project is scheduled for Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 9 AM to 5 PM at the high school gym. The Select Board and Advisory Committee have both endorsed the project. For more information, visit the town's website or the project site at www.southshoretechproject.com. Absentee and mail-in ballots are available through the Town Clerk's office.
Community Police Academy Enrollment
The Scituate Police Department is hosting a Community Police Academy, offering an inside look at law enforcement and public safety operations. Classes will be held on Monday evenings from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM, from February 3 through April 7, at the Emergency Operations Center in the Scituate Public Safety Building. Seating is limited, and registration closes on January 21. For more information or to register, visit the Scituate Police Facebook page or email ldesimone@scituatema.gov.
Widow’s Walk Golf Course Open for Winter Activities
Widow’s Walk Golf Course is now open for walking, sledding, and other winter activities. Residents are asked to keep dogs on leashes, avoid walking over greens or sand traps, and to clean up after their pets. Enjoy the winter season at “The Walk.”
Scituate Food Pantry Needs
The Scituate Food Pantry is experiencing an increase in clients seeking assistance and has identified a list of most-needed items, including jarred spaghetti sauce, apple sauce, decaf ground and instant coffee, microwave popcorn, low sugar cereal, shelf-stable juices, cream of mushroom soup, canned hash, Spam, and artificial sweeteners. Donations can be dropped off at the Pantry during operating hours or in the bins behind the Old Gates School. The Scituate Library, Village Market, and Shaw’s also collect items for the Pantry.