The Pembroke Select Board has officially moved forward with the disposal of the surplus fire station at 380 Washington Street, establishing a $475,000 minimum bid for the upcoming Request for Proposals (RFP). Town Manager Bill explained that the town intends to subdivide the property to retain ownership of the lucrative communications tower located on the site. I anticipate we'll probably get more than 475,000, but that's the market value without the tower portion, Bill noted, highlighting that the tower currently generates approximately $109,000 in annual revenue with a 3% yearly escalator. Vice Chair J. Brown supported the strategy to keep the tower income, remarking, It was only a few years ago that it was $50,000 a year and now going up to 109 is phenomenal. I think we should be keeping that piece. Motion Made by J. Brown to set the minimum value for the sale of 380 Washington Street at 475,000. Motion Passed (5-0).

The board also welcomed a new local business to Pembroke Center, approving a common victualler license for Uncommon Cafe at 158 Center Street. Owner and private chef Tyler Doctor told the board the cafe, located in the former Southshore Trains shop, will focus on meal prep, grab-and-go options, and local coffee. We hope to be a breath of fresh air in Pembroke Center, Doctor said, noting a target opening for the second week of February. Chair T. Marino expressed enthusiasm for the new addition, stating, We're kind of excited. We don't have any restaurants or anything. I know it's not a restaurant restaurant, but... Member D. Trabucco, noting the cafe is on his local bus route, moved for approval. Motion Made by D. Trabucco to approve the application for common victualler license CV-88 to Uncommon Cafe at 158 Center Street pending approval of the zoning board, building inspector, and health agent. Motion Passed (5-0).

In a move to fill a vacancy on the Board of Registrars, the Select Board chose to maintain the board's traditional three-member size despite having the legal option to expand. Town Clerk Annie explained that the vacancy followed the resignation of Stephanie Kalan. While resident and election warden Sue Renee was among the nominees, the board opted to keep her in her current role. I do enjoy being a warden on election day. But at the same time, I said to her, anything she needs, Renee told the board. D. Trabucco argued against expanding the board to four members, stating, For almost every position, it's best to have an odd number so that there's a vote. My suggestion would be that we remain at three: the sitting town clerk and one from each party. Motion Made by J. Brown to appoint Karen Flashman to the Board of Registrars. Motion Passed (5-0).

Financial and licensing matters continued with the board approving a pledge of license for Wolves Den Sports and Entertainment. Representative John explained the pledge acts as collateral for an SBA loan, noting it's really to force you to repay since liquor licenses are so cash friendly to the people that have them. Motion Made by J. Brown to allow the common victualler all alcohol license number 07888-RS-09060 held in the name of the Wolves Den Sports and Entertainment LLC to be pledged to Rockland Trust Company. Motion Passed (5-0). Additionally, the board approved a new Class 2 auto dealer license for Matthew Schley of Mattie’s Customs LLC, which will operate as an internet-based business at 11-19 Church Street. Pretty much I help friends and family look for cars so they don't get taken advantage of, Schley said. Motion Made by D. Trabucco to approve the application of Matthew Schley, Mattie's Customs LLC, for a new class 2 auto dealer's license. Motion Passed (5-0). The Pembroke Foundation also secured a one-day liquor license for a trivia night fundraiser on January 15. Chair Christopher Perry described the foundation as Pembroke Helping Pembroke. Motion Made by R. Flynn to approve the request of Chris Perry of the Pembroke Foundation for a one-day liquor license. Motion Passed (5-0).

Community updates included an announcement from S. Keegan, who noted, Senior Services asked me to let the public know that the Senior Services Cafe is open as of every Wednesday going forward from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the community center. During the Town Manager’s report, Bill addressed ongoing infrastructure work, noting that West Elm Street is slated for paving in late summer or fall. R. Flynn raised concerns about utility maintenance, asking, Could you ask the DPW director to take a look at the set of lights at 53 and Pleasant? There was a water main break years ago and the valve box seems to be sinking. Public safety was also brought to the forefront by resident Thomas Driscoll, who shared that his daughter was recently injured in a significant car accident on icy roads. What are the protocols for somebody gauging the roads to be salted and sanded? Driscoll asked. Bill responded that the DPW uses a formal forecasting service and coordinates with police during unexpected weather events like squalls.