The $2 million renovation of the Brooks Academy Museum is moving into its design phase, though town officials are already navigating potential building code hurdles regarding a new elevator. Town Representative Sean Libby reported that while the project aims to install a "Lula lift" serving three floors, Massachusetts fire codes may complicate the plan. The OPM and I walked through the building and we came up with a list of items that we want to be done in a scope of work, Libby explained. He noted that because the lift is intended to reach the basement, the town may be forced to install significant fire protection. OPM said Massachusetts might have a code restriction there where if we go to the basement... we might have to do firewalls, Libby said.

The project, which received nearly $2 million in funding from Town Meeting, includes a comprehensive overhaul of the historic structure. Planned work includes relocating the access ramp to the rear of the building to restore the historic front view, replacing the roof, repairing the cupola, and reconditioning all existing windows. Libby noted that RGB Architects has been selected as the Owner’s Project Manager (OPM), with a goal to have a design architect under contract by September 8. Despite a projected completion date of January 2027, Libby expressed hope for a phased approach that keeps the facility accessible. My goal is to have it open next summer so they could do work on the exterior that doesn't affect the public, he said.

The Brooks Academy Museum Commission underwent a leadership reorganization during the session as it prepares for the technical demands of the construction. The outgoing chair declined to seek another term, citing the specialized nature of the upcoming work. I will no longer accept the office of chair. We're getting into a field I have no background in, she said before nominating Bob Nickerson to take the lead. Motion Made by [Unidentified Member] to elect B. Nickerson as Chair. Motion Passed Unanimously. Nickerson then moved to fill the remaining officer roles. Motion Made by B. Nickerson to elect Paty as Vice Chair. Motion Passed Unanimously. The commission also appointed the former chair to serve as the new clerk. Motion Made by B. Nickerson to elect [Unidentified Member] as Clerk. Motion Passed Unanimously.

Nickerson, now serving as Chair, proposed a seat swap on the Brooks Academy Design Selection Committee to ensure the commission's leadership has a direct voice in choosing the project's architect. The proposal is that I switch out with Lynn since I'll be the chair of the committee, Nickerson said. Libby agreed the move was appropriate, though he cautioned that since the Select Board originally approved the committee roster, an amendment to the official memo might be required to formalize the change.

Beyond the structural shell of the building, the commission is focusing on the "super dry" environment needed for Harwich’s historical archives. Members emphasized that the basement must be transformed into a special archival space with strict humidity controls and sealed walls. Nickerson stressed the need for a logistical plan to move items once the elevator is functional. One thing I think we really need to focus on... is getting the artifacts all lined up because let's say the space in the basement gets done first and the lift is in place, we want to start moving them, Nickerson said. It has to be very organized. One member noted the original vision for the basement included a specific archival area where they're going to have to seal the walls and everything to protect the collection.

The meeting also featured an introduction from Stephanie Jagger, a non-resident property owner who expressed an interest in supporting the museum’s mission. I am a non-resident property owner with deep love of the museum, Jagger told the commission. So I thought I'm here to come and do things. This interest comes as the museum sees a steady flow of visitors during its current summer hours on Tuesdays and Fridays. Vice Chair Paty reported that the facility saw 12 visitors during a recent Friday afternoon. Commission member Anita joined the discussion as the board reviewed the current displays, which include a Revolutionary War House exhibit. One board member noted they had successfully identified nine local houses owned or built by Revolutionary War soldiers for the featured display. Prior to the project updates, the board briefly addressed administrative business. Motion Made by [Unidentified Member] to approve the minutes. Motion Passed Unanimously.