Duxbury Selectboard Candidates Debate $1.89M Override and Future of “Iconic” Powder Point Bridge
DUXBURY - March 4, 2026 - On a snowy Wednesday evening at the Duxbury Free Library, three candidates for the Selectboard faced off in a forum that centered on the town’s fiscal future and the preservation of its most famous landmarks. Incumbents Brian Glennon and Mike McGee emphasized the necessity of a $1.89 million operational override to maintain town services and education, while challenger Derek Bennett advocated for a “core-services-first” approach, questioning the transparency of current budget processes and the proposed replacement of the wooden Powder Point Bridge.
The Full Story
The forum, moderated by Josh Cutler, introduced residents to the three men vying for two available seats on the Selectboard. Brian Glennon, a resident of 20 years and current board chair, highlighted his experience on the Planning Board and Open Space Committee [05:46]. Mike McGee, a 15-year prosecutor and youth coach, spoke of “leading with empathy” during his five years on the board [08:45]. Newcomer Derek Bennett, a licensed electrician who has lived in town since 2008, positioned himself as a voice for transparency and practical infrastructure management [09:59].
The $1.89 Million Question The most contentious topic of the evening was Article 5B, a proposed $1.89 million operational override that includes funding for full-day kindergarten [19:08]. Both incumbents threw their support behind the measure. Glennon admitted he did not “want” an override but argued it was essential to preserve Duxbury’s character [21:52]. McGee echoed this, noting that suburban towns are facing declining state aid while health insurance and utility costs skyrocket [24:57].
“I don’t want an override, but I think we need an override... In order to preserve the things that make Duxbury Duxbury—the bridge, the beach, the open spaces—we need to account for it through our taxes.” [21:52] — Brian Glennon
Bennett, however, voiced opposition to the override in its current form. He argued that the town should prioritize “core and essential services” like police, fire, and schools within the standard 5A budget before asking for additional funds [21:06]. He expressed concern over the compounding nature of long-term tax increases on seniors and young families [21:26].
Powder Point Bridge: Wood vs. Concrete The future of the Powder Point Bridge—the longest wooden bridge in the world and a symbol on the town seal—loomed large [41:16]. With maintenance costs reaching $300,000 annually and projected to hit $500,000, MassDOT has proposed a $172 million replacement [43:57].
Bennett called for a feasibility study to explore preserving a historic wooden structure, citing concerns that a concrete replacement might take the bridge out of commission for up to 10 years [42:21]. Glennon countered that the town cannot afford to front millions for a wooden bridge independently and noted that MassDOT’s current proposal tries to mimic the wooden aesthetic [45:13]. McGee insisted that the process is still early and that the board must continue to “push back” on the state to incorporate as much wood as possible while ensuring the bridge remains a safe right-of-way for coastal residents [48:12].
Duxbury Beach and Coastal Resiliency All three candidates identified Duxbury Beach as their “favorite place” in town [32:47], but they differed on how to manage it. McGee, a staunch advocate for increased access, lamented the loss of revenue from beach sticker sales due to state and federal bird protections [35:16]. Glennon discussed the board’s recent efforts to support legislation that would pair back state regulations on non-endangered birds to restore resident access [39:51]. Bennett emphasized the need for a strategic plan that balances “regulations and recreation” to serve all residents [37:25].
Why It Matters
The outcome of the March 28 election and the preceding Town Meeting will determine whether Duxbury implements full-day kindergarten and how it addresses a backlog of deferred maintenance in town facilities [01:05:30]. Residents face a choice between the incumbents’ “sustain and invest” strategy and Bennett’s “scrutinize and prioritize” platform. Furthermore, the decision on the Powder Point Bridge replacement involves balancing a $172 million state-funded project against the potential loss of a historic wooden landmark that defines the town’s identity [41:34].
Official Minutes & Data
Key Candidate Positions
Topic: $1.89M Operational Override
Topic: Alden School Feasibility Study
Topic: Powder Point Bridge Replacement
Public Comment & Q&A
Trust in Government: Residents asked how candidates would build trust. Glennon and Bennett both emphasized the need to modernize the town’s website to make documents and information more accessible [01:17:32], [01:19:31].
Needs vs. Wants: A question from the audience highlighted Duxbury’s “New England bind” of aging infrastructure and a limited commercial tax base. Glennon noted that 90% of the budget is consumed by public safety, schools, and benefits, leaving little room for “wants” [01:36:31].
What’s Next
Annual Town Meeting: Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 9:00 AM (Duxbury PAC) [03:09].
Annual Town Election: Saturday, March 28, 2026. Polls open 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM at the Timothy Steele Athletic Building [03:15].
Source Video: Duxbury Free Library / Duxbury Cable Access