New Weymouth Town Council Appointments and Critical Historic Preservation Funding Lead Agenda
WEYMOUTH - January 20, 2026 - Town Council President Arthur Mathews announced the 2026-2028 committee assignments, emphasizing a commitment to fairness while managing high demand for specific seats. The Council also initiated funding processes for significant restoration projects at the Abigail Adams Birthplace and Old South Union Church, moving over $133,000 in historic preservation requests to committee review.
The Full Story
The first meeting of the new year focused heavily on organizational structure and the distribution of local preservation funds. President Arthur Mathews kicked off the legislative session by reading the new committee rosters for the 2026-2028 term. Mathews noted that some committees were exceptionally popular this year, receiving requests from up to nine councilors despite a five-member limit per committee.
“Before I read through these, I actually want to just make note that when I go through these, I try to make it as fair as possible for everyone, try to accommodate as many requests as possible.” — Council President Arthur Mathews
Notable appointments included Councilor Gary MacDougall as Chair of the Budget Management Committee, Councilor Kenneth DiFazio as Chair of the Ordinance Committee, and Councilor Rick Coughlin leading Economic Development.
Following the organizational announcements, TJ Lacey, Director of Administrative and Community Services, presented three measures from Mayor Molisse. The first, Measure 26002, recommended Jason Harris for the dual role of Building Commissioner and Director of Municipal Licensing and Inspections. The council voted unanimously to refer this appointment to the Budget Management Committee for further vetting.
The council then turned its attention to Weymouth’s historical landmarks. Measure 26003 requested $116,000 from the Historic Resource Fund to replace the roof and restore the exterior of the Abigail Adams Birthplace. Shortly after, Measure 26004 proposed $17,860 for the restoration of the church bell at Old South Union Church. Both measures were referred to the Budget Management Committee and will require future legal notices and public hearings.
The evening concluded with a procedural step to update the Town Council’s own operating rules. Measure 26001, covering the rules and regulations for 2026-2028, was referred to the Rules Committee as required by the town charter.
Why It Matters
The committee assignments determine which councilors will have the first look at specific legislation, budgets, and public safety issues for the next two years. For residents, the funding for the Abigail Adams Birthplace and Old South Union Church represents a significant investment in the town’s historic identity, utilizing dedicated Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds specifically set aside for such restorations.
Official Minutes & Data
Key Motions & Votes
Motion: To refer Measure 26002 (Appointment of Jason Harris as Building Commissioner) to the Budget Management Committee.
Vote: 11-0
Motion: To refer Measure 26003 (CPA funding for Abigail Adams Birthplace) to the Budget Management Committee.
Vote: 11-0
Motion: To refer Measure 26004 (CPA funding for Old South Union Church bell) to the Budget Management Committee.
Vote: 11-0
Motion: To refer Measure 26001 (Town Council Rules and Regulations 2026-2028) to the Rules Committee.
Vote: 11-0
Public Comment
No residents addressed the council during the official public comment segment of this meeting. Councilor Carrie Palazzo shared a public announcement regarding an Elvis impersonator concert being hosted by Weymouth on February 6th at Chapman Auditorium.
What’s Next
The Budget Management Committee will review the proposed historic restoration projects and the Building Commissioner appointment. The Rules Committee will review the council’s operating procedures. The next regularly scheduled Town Council meeting is set for Monday, February 2, 2026.
Source Video: Weymouth Town Council