Rochester Select Board — May 4, 2026

The Rochester Select Board met on May 4, 2026, to address town appointments, contracts, and municipal updates. Following the approval of meeting minutes from April 16, April 22, and April 30, Police Chief Michael Assad Jr. recommended the appointments of Scott Robbins as a full-time patrol officer and Jason M. Arthurs as a reserve police officer. Both appointments were unanimously approved, and Chief Assad presented the department's April activity report, noting 1,480 calls for service, 12 arrests, and 194 motor vehicle stops. The board also noted the upcoming Memorial Day Parade scheduled for Sunday, May 24, at 12:00 PM starting from Town Hall.

Town Administrator Cameron Durant reported on several town matters, including the finalization and posting of the 34-article warrant for the May 18 Annual Town Meeting at Rochester Memorial School. Durant shared details of a site tour at SEMASS with Select Board member Bradford Morse, the search for a breakfast chef for the Council on Aging, and inquiries regarding municipal Flock safety cameras. The board voted to authorize early in-person voting and vote-by-mail for the annual town election from May 18 through May 22, 2026. A discussion took place regarding a proposed memorandum of understanding between the Park Commission, Andrew Daniel, and the Highway Department to transition day-to-day park maintenance to town staff; the board directed Durant to draft the agreement for future formal consideration.

In procurement actions, the board approved a $130,638.50 fiber loop installation contract with ComTrac, funded by a $235,000 state grant, as well as an IT network upgrade contract with Secure One for $240,250 using the remaining grant funds and a prior Town Meeting appropriation. Additionally, the board approved an event permit for the Forever 1111 Miles for Maddie 5K run/walk before adjourning.

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