Milton is moving forward with a major public safety overhaul, as the Select Board authorized a joint application with the City of Quincy for a $12.5 million regional dispatch grant. The proposal, which seeks to modernize radio infrastructure and consolidate emergency communications, would establish a regional center in Quincy’s new public safety building. Town Administrator Nick Milano explained that the grant covers software, infrastructure upgrades, and salary support, though he noted the town would re-evaluate if the state funding falls short. Fire Chief Madden, who initially felt skeptical of the plan, called the partnership a tremendous opportunity that provides $2.9 million for radio infrastructure the town otherwise could not afford. Police Chief King emphasized the operational safety benefits, arguing that a regional center provides better backup than Milton’s current one-dispatcher-per-shift model. Chief King addressed concerns about the loss of local expertise, noting that many current dispatchers are not from Milton and don't necessarily have local knowledge. Member Richard Wells raised concerns about the long-term financial sustainability once state grants diminish and the impact on the local Police Cadet program. Motion Made by R. Wells to approve the application for a grant for a regional dispatch center with the City of Quincy and an intermunicipal agreement with the City of Quincy for regional dispatch. Motion Passed (5-0-0).

The transition toward the fiscal year 2027 budget includes specific investments to modernize town operations. Milano reported that the upcoming budget includes $50,000 for additional hours in the Inspectional Services Department (ISD) and dedicated funds for KP Law to address zoning code contradictions. Building Commissioner Michael delivered a detailed report on the department’s mounting workload, citing 21 new single-family homes and several large-scale 40B projects totaling hundreds of units. You're not in the breakdown lane here. You're running on the high-speed lane every day, Member Wells told the Commissioner. Michael suggested that a tune-up on the zoning bylaws would be huge to resolve existing code conflicts. Member John Driscoll commended the department's diligence despite staffing shortages, stating, Glad you had the time to come here. It sounds like you don't even have time to do this. Member Meghan Haggerty questioned if there was an industry standard for workload ratios, while Vice Chair Winston Daley noted that the building department can get lost in that they have to execute on a lot of these new developments and asked how the board could further support efficiency.

Legal shifts are also underway as KP Law continues its transition as Town Counsel. Attorney Carolyn Murray highlighted a significant rewrite of the sign bylaw and the complexity of new Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) laws, noting the challenge of balancing business-friendly regulations with community standards. Chair Benjamin Zoll praised the firm’s performance during recent town meetings, stating, I've heard nothing but positive comments from across the town about our transition. In a separate administrative matter, the board delivered a glowing performance review for Town Administrator Nick Milano. Member Driscoll noted Milano is always very responsive and willing to help, while Vice Chair Daley credited him with providing a steady hand through difficult issues like the override and MBTA zoning. Motion Made by R. Wells to approve the Town Administrator's performance evaluation. Motion Passed (5-0-0).

The meeting marked a significant turning point for board leadership as Chair Zoll and Member Wells concluded their terms. Warrant Committee Chair Jay Clay thanked both for their service, describing Wells as a multi-decade, multi-generational public servant. Wells, reflecting on 41 years of service to Milton, noted that a member of his family has worked for the town continuously since 1949. Chair Zoll reflected on the community's positive trajectory and the importance of treating neighbors with respect, indicating that while he is departing due to professional commitments, he may return to service in the future. The board also moved to revitalize the East Milton Fire Station, prioritizing active use for the site. Motion Made by R. Wells to approve the release of the East Milton Fire Station RFP. Motion Passed (5-0-0).

Acting as Trustees of the Governor Stoughton Trust, the board made a pivotal decision regarding the Town Farm site by withdrawing a request for proposals for affordable housing. While Chair Zoll maintained that affordable housing is the right solution for the land, the board expressed concern over infrastructure costs. Member Haggerty noted that the town is not currently positioned to fund the necessary road improvements for the site. Motion Made by W. Daley to withdraw the RFP for the Town Farm. Motion Passed (4-0-1). The Trust did approve its annual $25,000 contribution to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center Milton. Motion Made by R. Wells to approve $25,000 to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center Milton Campus from the Governor Stoughton Trust. Motion Passed (5-0-0).