Pembroke residents can expect an average single-family tax bill of $7,527 for fiscal year 2026, following the Select Board’s decision to maintain a uniform tax rate across all property types. During the annual tax classification hearing, Chief Assessor Jean Gelotty reported that the town’s total valuation has reached $4.5 billion, driven by a housing market where the average single-family home sale price hit $731,000 in 2024. Gelotty noted that property values in town have climbed more than 60 percent since 2018, leading to a calculated uniform tax rate of $11.79 per thousand dollars of value.

The board weighed the possibility of a split tax rate, which would shift a higher portion of the $53.5 million estimated tax levy onto commercial and industrial properties. However, Gelotty cautioned against the move, explaining that residential properties make up 88.41 percent of the town's value. Most towns with split rates have 15-30% CIP [Commercial, Industrial, and Personal property]; Pembroke only has 12% Gelotty told the board. She explained that even a maximum 50 percent shift would only save the average resident $492 annually while burdening local businesses with an additional $8,189. Motion Made by D. Trabucco to maintain the single tax rate and reject the small commercial exemption, residential exemption, and open space discount. Motion Passed (5-0). T. Thorne clarified the Assessor's position, asking, So your recommendations are: No, no, no, and yes to the uniform rate?

In a historic shift for town traditions, Veterans Agent Christine announced that Pembroke will hold a Veterans Day parade this year instead of its traditional Memorial Day event. The parade, scheduled for November 11, will muster at 9:30 AM at Arrow and march to the Community Center for an 11:00 AM ceremony. This is our first year opting for a Veterans Day parade instead of a Memorial Day parade, Christine said, noting that the event will feature the high school band, antique cars, and youth groups. To ensure the event is accessible, Deputy Chief Wendy Lafayette confirmed that a shuttle will be available for older veterans. For older veterans who cannot march the full mile, the shuttle and antique cars will be available to carry them in the parade, Lafayette said. Commander Paul Duval added that the ceremony would feature the high school chamber singers and guest speakers Tracy Marino and Sean Keegan.

The local business landscape at 246R Washington Street is also evolving, with two Class 2 auto dealer licenses moving through the board. John Wingle of Orphan Car Garage received approval to transfer a license as he takes over a unit from the retiring Glenn Miller. Wingle, who specializes in vintage and special interest vehicles, emphasized his reliance on indoor storage and an online-heavy business model. Reputation is everything to me, Wingle said, noting his string of positive reviews. D. Trabucco supported the move, stating, This complex is almost exclusively these types of businesses now. It’s a great spot. Motion Made by D. Trabucco to approve the transfer of Class 2 license C2-77 to J. Wingle at 246R Washington St, Unit 3, for up to 8 cars inside. Motion Passed (5-0).

Joining the complex is James Gaines of CCB Motors LLC, a former 25-year resident who is transitioning from a 40-year career in construction to selling affordable used cars. Gaines shared that the name CCB stands for his grandchildren: Cora, Bobby, and Brendan. In Massachusetts, you can only sell three cars a year without a license. I want to be legitimate, Gaines explained. T. Thorne responded, We like affordable and we like legal. Motion Made by D. Trabucco to approve the new Class 2 license for J. Gaines at 246R Washington St, Unit 6, for up to 4 cars inside. Motion Passed (5-0).

The board also addressed local entertainment and venue requests. Angel Pizza received permission to extend its indoor live entertainment hours for karaoke from 10:30 PM to 12:30 AM. S. Coleman noted that the business is located in an industrial area and has not generated complaints. Motion Made by S. Coleman to amend the entertainment license for Angel Pizza. Motion Passed (5-0). Additionally, the board authorized a one-day liquor license for a craft show at the Community Center on November 29. R. McManus expressed confidence in the facility's management, saying, I trust Lance’s judgment on this. Motion Made by D. Trabucco to approve the one-day liquor license for the Community Center. Motion Passed (5-0).

In his report, the Town Manager shared that construction on the new Fire Substation at Monroe and School Streets is progressing well, with walls up and the project currently projected to finish under budget and on schedule. The Public Safety Headquarters foundation work is also ongoing. Rounding out the session, T. Thorne highlighted a positive interaction between a resident and the DPW regarding trash pickup issues caused by construction signage. She spoke to Rose at the DPW and said she was wonderful and helpful, Thorne said. I wanted to share that success.