The Hingham Select Board tackled winter preparations and fall festivities at its October 7 meeting, securing a new rock salt contract and giving the green light to a popular Halloween-themed beer garden. The board also formally recognized Indigenous People's Day with a proclamation and encouraged residents to provide feedback on the future of local ferry service.

Looking ahead to winter weather, the board authorized a contract with Eastern Minerals Inc. for up to $300,000 in road salt. Town officials explained that by participating in a 28-town collective purchasing program, Hingham locked in a favorable rate. "The rock salt in this contract is the $63 per ton," said staff member David. "If we did not go this route, it would be $85 to $95 per ton." Ashley, from the town's public works team, noted the contract allows Hingham "to have the salt to keep the roads nice and safe and clean this winter." Board member Liz Klene inquired about the cost, learning it was a slight decrease from last year's $65 per ton. Julie Staley confirmed the procurement process, asking, "Medfield is the one who organizes the whole thing, but we're just part of the coalition of towns...?" Following the discussion, a motion was made by Liz Klene to authorize the town administrator to sign the agreement with Eastern Minerals Incorporated to supply the town with rock salt and/or solar salt in the amount not to exceed $300,000. Motion Passed 3-0.

The board also paved the way for a seasonal favorite, Untold Brewing’s "Booze and Brews" event. Matt Elder of Untold Brewing described the upcoming gathering at Derby Street Shops on October 24. "It's a family-friendly event where there's trick-or-treating, candy, music, all sorts of festivities," Elder said. "And Untold sets up a tent with our Untold beer." Chair William Ramsey praised the brewery's community involvement, telling Elder, "As you know, I'm a huge fan of you and your brewery." Liz Klene added her support, noting, "I think believe it is the fifth year and it's been very successful. So, happy to support it." The board then voted on the required license. A motion was made by Liz Klene to approve the issuance of a special one-day wine and malt beverages license to Untold Brewing for Booze and Brews to be held on the green at Derby Street Shops on Saturday, October 24th, 2025 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Motion Passed 3-0.

In a formal observance, the board read a proclamation designating October 13, 2025, as Indigenous People's Day. Board members took turns reading the text, which honored the history and contributions of native peoples. "On Indigenous People's Day, our nation celebrates the invaluable contributions and resilience of indigenous peoples," read Julie Staley. Liz Klene added that their contributions "are integral to our nation, our culture, and our society." Chair Ramsey concluded the reading and made a formal motion. Motion made by William Ramsey to recognize October 13, 2025 as Indigenous People's Day in the town of Hingham. Motion Passed 3-0.

In his report, Town Administrator Art urged public participation in an ongoing MBTA water transportation study, which could impact local ferry service. "This will be a great opportunity for the community... to share their views," he said, highlighting virtual and in-person meetings. Julie Staley shared a convenient way for residents to weigh in, stating, "I took the survey and my husband also took the survey online and it was very quick and easy to do." Chair Ramsey closed the public portion of the meeting with a reminder about Homecoming weekend at the high school, encouraging residents to "come on out and support our local athletes."