The Harwich Treasure Chest is preparing for a busier summer season by proposing an expansion of its operating schedule. During its March 19 meeting, the committee voted to request that the facility open on Fridays from Memorial Day through Labor Day, a move intended to alleviate the weekend crush of visitors that often leaves the parking lot at capacity. Committee member Debbie noted that the Department of Public Works (DPW) is in agreement with the plan, provided staffing is sufficient. I talked to Jeff yesterday and he agrees, she said, adding that at least one volunteer has already committed to the new Friday shifts. Motion Made by an unidentified member to recommend to the Select Board and DPW that the Treasure Chest open on Fridays from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Motion Passed (Unanimous).

The push for expanded hours comes as the committee continues to grapple with parking and traffic flow issues at the facility. Members debated whether to extend the current 30-minute shopping limit to a full hour, ultimately deciding to keep the shorter window to ensure a steady turnover of vehicles. If we give people an hour in the summer, that’s not letting someone else come in, Debbie cautioned, noting that she recently observed 10 cars waiting for entry on a Saturday morning. New committee member George Forester suggested that even a poorly enforced sign has psychological value for the 80% of people who generally follow rules. If you have a half-hour sign, people will read it and generally follow it, Forester said. Chair Heather agreed to create new internal signage to reinforce the 30-minute limit for patrons once they are inside the building.

The meeting also served as an introduction for Forester, who recently retired from a career in the tech industry with companies like Intel and iRobot. I’ve been down on the Cape since '21, Forester told the committee, explaining that he has spent the last year volunteering on Saturday mornings. In addition to welcoming new blood, the committee formalized its current leadership. Motion Made by M. [Mary] to approve Heather as Chair for February, March, and April. Motion Passed (Unanimous). Heather noted that she will step down from the role in July, with member Jean scheduled to take the reins for the following quarter.

Logistical challenges regarding waste and recycling dominated much of the operational discussion. The committee is working to standardize a "Black Binder" of procedures to help shift leaders manage specific items like textiles and glass. Heather expressed a desire to delegate some of the physical labor associated with clearing out rejects. I’ve been doing a lot with Ellie and I’d like to give it up, Heather admitted. The committee is encouraging volunteers to use smaller bags for textiles to prevent injuries, as the large black bags often become too heavy to lift into the Planet Aid bins. I struggle to get them into the bin. It’s up high and hard on my back, Debbie said, noting that she would do her best to manage the overflow.

Beyond internal operations, the committee is looking to the DPW for help with the facility's exterior. Member Ellie raised concerns about debris and cardboard boxes blowing over the fence into neighboring properties. A person from across the street came over to complain because the parking lot gets full of our stuff, Ellie reported, suggesting that the DPW be asked to perform a yard cleanup twice a year. I don't mind cleaning inside, but picking up wet boxes outside is too much. Heather agreed that the wind frequently catches materials and suggested requesting more frequent box pickups to mitigate the mess.

The committee also addressed security and administrative compliance. A recent incident involving a broken key jammed in an exit gate led to a discussion about the proper use of the facility's lockbox. Gretchen described the situation where a key was forced and snapped, requiring Heather to remove the remains with pliers. While the lockbox code was used to gain entry that day, the committee emphasized that the code should remain restricted to emergency use to prevent abuse. Additionally, Heather reminded members to complete their mandatory conflict of interest training with Town Hall, noting that several members are currently flagged as overdue on the town’s tracking sheet. Motion Made by D. [Debbie] to adjourn the meeting. Motion Passed (Unanimous).