Harwich residents will have their say on potential beach fee adjustments this winter, as the Recreation and Youth Commission prepares for a mandatory public hearing in early 2026. During their December 16 meeting, Recreation Director Eric Beebe informed the commission that a formal public session is required before any fee changes can be finalized, bringing the department’s procedures in line with the town’s Golf and Waterways commissions. The Town Administrator told me—the way this all came about is he came to me maybe a month ago and said let's take a look at these beach fees, Beebe noted, explaining that recommendations had already been shared with town leadership. Commission Chair Phyllis Noble clarified the procedural hurdle, noting, So we can't physically vote on anything until we have a public hearing. That was the kind of cart-before-the-horse situation.

Member John Losi questioned the timing of board feedback, asking, Are we going to have any input in terms of what these numbers are? Are we going to try to make changes the same night as the public hearing? Noble confirmed the commission would have the next month to review the proposed figures before the January session. The hearing must be advertised in the local press at least two weeks in advance to ensure transparency. Motion Made by P. Noble to set a public hearing for the January meeting regarding beach fee changes. Motion Passed 5-0.

The commission also formally welcomed its newest member, Arthur Dowski, who brings a 34-year career in recreation and fitness to the board. Dowski, a resident of Idol Way since 2014, detailed an extensive background that includes 17 years with the YMCA of Greater New York overseeing programs for a quarter-million children and nearly two decades with Equinox Fitness. My background—my whole life has been in recreation, therapeutic recreation, and business, Dowski told his colleagues. He also highlighted past work with the Clinton administration on recreation programs for formerly homeless families. An avid pickleball player, Dowski emphasized his belief that strong recreation programs are a driver of community development and local real estate value. I'm happy to be here in Harwich, he said.

Physical infrastructure needs at the Harwich Community Center were also high on the agenda. The commission signaled its support for a $40,000 project to modernize the basketball systems in the gymnasium. While the hoops themselves remain in good condition, Beebe reported that the electronic lifting motors and remote control systems are failing. To fund the repairs, the Town Administrator suggested repurposing unused capital from a previous article originally intended for carpeting and generators. This is to replace or revamp all the hoops in the gymnasium... fixing everything up to where they should be, Beebe said. Losi sought clarification on the scope of the bid, asking, Is the electrical included in the 40 grand? Beebe confirmed the figure represents a complete job estimate, which will likely include a 20 percent contingency before heading to a Town Meeting vote. Motion Made by [Unidentified Member] to support the Community Center basketball hoop project. Motion Passed 5-0.

Maintenance and improvements at Potterfield also sparked significant debate, specifically regarding the replacement of dugouts. While labor will be provided for free by Cape Cod Tech students, the town will cover approximately $10,000 to $12,000 in material costs. Losi raised concerns about the proposed stone dust flooring inside the new structures. With the dugouts being wide open and the rain gets in there, that flooring is going to be full of mud, he argued. Dowski floated a more cost-effective solution to the mud issue: How about those patio blocks? They're like three bucks. Two foot by two foot. Probably a lot cheaper than dropping concrete. Beebe agreed to consult with the technical school teachers to obtain formal drawings and updated pricing for full-length benches, as the current seating was deemed too small for the teams.

The financial viability of projects at Sand Pond remains in question after new construction bids for restroom facilities returned at over $180,000. Beebe questioned if such a high expenditure is justified given that usage at Sand Pond has waned since lifeguards were reassigned to Long Pond. The question to me now is, does Sand Pond justify spending upwards of $200,000 plus dollars for a restroom? Beebe asked. Member Leah Flynn inquired about the status of the current facility, which has been plagued by raccoons and neglect. The building's coming down, Beebe confirmed, noting the demolition would proceed regardless of whether a new structure is built. In contrast, a $350,000 irrigation project for the back fields is moving forward through the Community Preservation Committee. Beebe explained the request includes a substantial contingency to buffer against fluctuating material costs and federal tariffs.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on staff retention and the rising tide of vandalism at town parks. Noble and Beebe reported repeated damage to the bathrooms and port-a-potties at Brooks Park, where porcelain toilets have been smashed and fireworks set off. While the facilities are lit at night, Beebe noted that red tape regarding liability and signage has complicated the installation of security cameras. Turning to personnel, Losi advocated for the reclassification of staff member John Mahan to prevent other towns from poaching him. Mahan, currently a Program Specialist, has reached the top of his pay grade. I just hope if something comes out in the neighborhood... that we might be in a position of losing the guy, Losi said. Beebe supported the idea of creating an Assistant Director position, though he noted the town is currently discouraging enhancements of services in the upcoming budget cycle.