The Harwich Community Center is prioritizing safety and technology in its upcoming budget cycle, with Director Carolyn Carey presenting a "hit list" of capital needs that includes the return of a building-wide public address system and the replacement of whiteboards that have been in service for a quarter-century. During the August 8 meeting of the Community Center Facilities Committee, Carey detailed a shift toward modernizing the facility’s internal infrastructure, noting that while the town’s Facilities Department handles structural items like roofs and boilers, the center must advocate for its own operational upgrades.

A primary concern for the department is the lack of a functional PA system, which was lost during a previous phone system upgrade. Carey emphasized that restoring this capability is a critical move for the facility’s 60-member daily population and visiting public. For safety and security, I want a PA system back in the building, Carey told the committee. Beyond safety, the director pointed to aging classroom tools, explaining that the current whiteboards are 25 years old and should be phased out in favor of interactive smartboards. The committee also discussed the need for new furniture, as existing plastic tables have begun to crack and pose a potential hazard to users. Member Heath Eldrich suggested revisiting a long-held ambition for the grounds, noting, There was a 'dream list' item brought up before for an outdoor patio space. It could generate revenue and be used by the COA or Recreation.

Technology challenges are also impacting the center’s ability to host hybrid meetings. Clerk Chris Joyce highlighted significant audio issues in the multi-purpose room, which currently struggles to accommodate presentations involving remote participants. The sound in the multi-purpose room is an issue. It's not designed for presentations or Zoom. When people speak on Zoom, nobody can hear them unless they are sitting close to the screen, Joyce said. Carey confirmed she is working with town IT staff to explore sound baffling and other acoustic solutions to be included in the next meeting’s planning session.

The meeting also served as an after-action review of the recent circus event, which officials deemed a success despite logistical hurdles. Committee Chair Angie Chilaka praised the coordination between the school district, the Recreation Department, and the Community Center, noting that the grounds remained in excellent condition. Chilaka specifically highlighted the importance of having local Police and Fire details on-site, contrasting Harwich's experience with a recent rigging malfunction at a performance in Wrentham where emergency responders had to be called to the scene. I want to give a high five to Police and Fire because we have them on site when we do the circus, Chilaka said. In Wrentham, they didn't have them on site and had to call for rescue. Minutes make a difference.

The committee welcomed new member Phyllis Thompson, who also provided an update from the Recreation Department regarding potential funding from the Community Preservation Committee. Thompson noted that the town is looking at more than just the building's exterior, stating, One update that you might be interested in pertaining to this building is that for CPC, we're discussing a new basketball nets system to propose through Recreation in the next Town Meeting. The committee is still awaiting the formal appointment of a Council on Aging representative by the Select Board, though Carey indicated that the appointment of a liaison is expected shortly.

Staffing remains a fluid situation as the summer season winds down. The center is currently utilizing a creative staffing solution through the Mass Hire program, which provides a worker at no cost to the town’s budget. Program Specialist Reagan noted that while the center will soon lose seasonal college staff Josh and Molly, they are looking to the high school for future talent. In response to a suggestion from Joyce about formalizing student roles, Reagan said, I work with Sheri Armstrong quite a bit, but we've never had an intern here. I will reach out and see if anyone is interested. Carey added that the center will send the departing seasonal workers care packages as they return to school.

In procedural business, the committee conducted its annual reorganization. Motion Made by H. Eldrich to keep the slate as it is. The committee voted to retain its current leadership for the new fiscal year. Motion Passed 4-0-0. Earlier in the session, the committee addressed its records. Motion Made by A. Chilaka to accept the June minutes with the change as noted by C. Joyce. Motion Passed 4-0-0.

Looking ahead, the facility is preparing for a busy September, including the Cranberry Festival and the "Barks in the Park" event scheduled for September 20 at Brooks Park, which will feature K9 demonstrations and a parade. Maintenance work continues on-site, with the Highway Department currently repairing the building's generator and crews finishing trim painting throughout the activity rooms. The next meeting is scheduled for September 12 at 3:30 PM.