Brant Rock resident Eric Murphy addressed the Board of Public Works to highlight safety concerns regarding inadequate lighting near the recently completed esplanade bullnose project. Murphy detailed a frustrating history of lighting removals dating back to a 1940s film production in the area, noting that several poles remain dark decades later. It starts to come to our eyes at night when it gets dark at 4:30 that it’s really really dark down there, Murphy said, urging the board to restore the streetlights to prevent winter accidents. Superintendent Ken Ryan presented a map of existing and missing fixtures, informing the board that he plans to coordinate with Eversource to determine which lights are currently under contract before requesting new installations.

The board also reviewed a draft policy regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), focusing on simplifying utility connections for residents following recent state law changes. Chair Diane Della Loggia emphasized that the goal is transparency for homeowners rather than creating additional hurdles, stating, We’re just clarifying for residents and that’s an ongoing development that the staff is working on. Member Bob Shaughnessy noted the importance of consistency across the town code, suggesting that ADU requirements should align with standard residential expansions. Superintendent Ryan clarified that the proposed policy would allow ADUs to connect behind the primary water meter, though the town would request access to update older meters during the construction process.

During the action items portion of the meeting, the board addressed the town's critical electrical maintenance needs for wastewater and water facilities. Member John Cusack moved to **award contract 2026-18 for electrical maintenance to the lowest qualified bidder, Dagle Electrical of Wilmington, in an estimated annual amount of $100,413, based on the specifications and hourly rates in the contract documents, and authorize the chair of the Board of Public Works or a designee to execute the contract**. The motion was seconded by Bob Shaughnessy. **Motion Passed 3-0**.

Financial oversight remained a central theme as Business Manager Sharon Rice provided an update on the search for an outside auditor. Following a lack of interest in previous requests for proposals, the board discussed rebranding the forensic audit as a financial analysis to avoid triggering legal red flags for potential bidders. Rice explained that some firms were hesitant to engage without direct insurance company involvement, noting, The request to do an audit needs to come from the insurance company. In other business, John Cusack expressed frustration over trash abuse at the pier, observing, At times those barrels had multiple household trash. The board agreed to remove one highly accessible barrel and install signage warning of 24-hour video surveillance.

The meeting concluded with a strategic discussion on long-term infrastructure planning and water security. Bob Shaughnessy advocated for a comprehensive sewer master plan that prioritizes environmental protection over simple convenience. The goal would be to protect the—why we have a sewer system is to protect our water supply, Shaughnessy argued, calling for a shared financial commitment from the town to safeguard drinking water. Superintendent Ryan ended the public session by announcing he would meet with two finalists for the Town Administrator position the following day to provide feedback on behalf of the Public Works department.