The Community Center Facilities Committee is moving to restrict building access to service animals only following multiple sanitation incidents and increasing indoor congestion. Director Carolyn Carey reported that while the building currently operates under an informal leash policy, recent hygiene issues—specifically animal waste left inside activity rooms—have prompted a need for a formal regulation. Carey noted that the library’s existing policy, which limits access to ADA-defined service animals and excludes emotional support or therapy pets, serves as a model. The Select Board currently does not have a written policy for this building, Carey said, adding that any new rule must be ratified by the Select Board and the Town Administrator. One committee member supported the shift, noting that as a dog lover, I think our insurance company would agree that pets in the building are not a great idea. Chair Angie Chilaka agreed with the specific focus on service animals, remarking, That's good, because some people walk around with snakes.

The meeting marked the first appearance of Town Administrator James McGrail before the committee. McGrail, who is currently navigating a narrow $92,000 property tax levy capacity and a looming $980,000 Monomoy school assessment gap, praised the facility's staff and operations. I think pretty highly of this facility and the work that Carolyn's doing, McGrail said. Some of the better memories I've had of my short tenure here happened in this building. Chilaka welcomed the administrator, highlighting the efforts of the staff while noting that I've been on board from the beginning and I can honestly say Carolyn is terrific.

Addressing chronic parking shortages, Carey proposed relocating the movable futsal court from the main lot to a grassy area situated over the town’s sewer infrastructure. The move could reclaim between 12 and 17 parking spaces, a critical need as the building enters its busy spring season. Discussion regarding the facility's role in the community also touched on the need for dedicated teen space. Program Specialist Reagan Mesquita described a recent incident where a group of local teens was asked to leave a school building because no chaperone was present. They just wanted to play a board game. We set them up here, but they need a dedicated spot, Mesquita said. One committee member suggested that creating a permanent home for youth could foster intergenerational coordination, noting, In a dream world, the kids hanging out here could help the seniors with technology.

Operational updates included the continued struggle with technology bottlenecks, a recurring theme across Harwich departments. New sign-in stations in the hallways remain non-functional pending technical expertise. Committee member Chris Joyce indicated he is coordinating with town staff to resolve the issue, stating, I'm emailing Sarah and Crystal about that now. The committee also addressed minor administrative corrections regarding program locations. Motion Made by [Member] to accept the minutes with the amendment to include that the futsal program at the 204 building is run by the police department. Motion Passed (3-0-0).

Looking ahead to the May Town Meeting, Carey confirmed she is coordinating with the Recreation department to provide babysitting and with the Council on Aging for transportation to ensure high voter turnout. As the building enters its 26th year, Carey emphasized the need to functionalize the space to manage growing pains, which includes seeking a sponsor for a popular community shredding event. The public really wants another shredding event. I'm looking into the budget, Carey said, while Mesquita noted that having the bin in the lobby was very successful.