Town to pay former superintendent $700K to settle wrongful termination lawsuit

By Christopher Haraden

The town has agreed to pay former Hull Public Schools Superintendent Michael Devine $700,000 to settle a lawsuit that alleged wrongful termination, defamation, and civil rights violations, among other charges.

The unanimous vote to fire Devine came in 2020 after the school committee learned that he had sent suggestive text messages to a 21-year-old former student. According to court documents, the man, who was living in Florida, threatened to “go public” about the situation unless Devine resigned; he also contacted other administrators to alert them about the texts he received from the superintendent, who had previously served as the high school principal.

The school department conducted an investigation and replaced Devine, who had been appointed superintendent in 2017, with current Superintendent Judith Kuehn, who is retiring later this month.

In 2021, Devine filed a $5-million suit against the town, the school committee, and individual members David Twombly, Stephanie Peters, Jennifer Fleming, Lucas Patenaude, and Eric Hipp, alleging discrimination based on his sexual orientation, civil rights violations, breach of contract, defamation, and economic and emotional damages.

Click here to read the full text of the settlement agreement

Click here to read the full text of the Devine v. Town of Hull lawsuit

On May 29 of this year, in the middle of the second day of testimony in front of a Boston jury, the parties told Judge Patti B. Saris that a settlement had been reached. The terms were finalized this week; in addition to the monetary damages, the school department agreed to issue a statement thanking Devine “for his years of honorable public service” and to write him a letter of recommendation for future employment.

Of the $700,000 that will be paid to Devine within the next 30 days, $300,000 is covered by the town’s insurance policy, while the school department will pay $250,000 and the town’s general fund will contribute $150,000. Neither party admitted any wrongdoing and each agreed to pay its own legal fees.

After receiving a copy of the settlement agreement late Wednesday afternoon, the Times reached out to Kuehn, Twombly, Town Manager Jennifer Constable, and select board Chair Irwin Nesoff about the source of the $400,000 that the town and school department must pay. It is unclear whether the settlement payout was anticipated in the current budget or if cuts will be made to accommodate the payment. None responded by the Times’ print deadline.

Also on Wednesday, the school department sent an unsigned email to parents with the statement that the parties had “resolved their differences to the satisfaction of both sides regarding the termination of Michael Devine.” The message indicated that the town “thanks Michael Devine for his years of honorable public service … and wishes him well on his future endeavors.” A similar message is contained in a three-paragraph letter of recommendation signed by Twombly that is part of the settlement.

In court last month, the school department’s attorney argued that Devine’s termination was not discriminatory but resulted from the superintendent’s “texting with a student who looked up to him as a father figure and who he knew had significant mental health issues.” Court documents indicated that Devine admitted that his behavior had “crossed the line.”

Devine’s attorney alleged that his “sexual orientation was a deciding factor in his termination,” and that texts with a 21-year-old adult are not under the jurisdiction of the school committee. His attorney said that the school committee had labeled Devine a “groomer” because he knew the former student from his time as Hull High principal.

Like what you’re reading? Stay informed with a Hull Times subscription by clicking here.

Do you have an opinion to share? Click here to write a Letter to the Editor.

Paying tribute to one of Hull's favorite lunch ladies after 40 years of service...

SCHOOL’S OUT. Diane Walsh has been a familiar face in Hull’s school cafeterias for the past 40 years, and now that the Memorial Middle School is closing, she has decided to retire. Generations of Hull kids have fond memories of seeing Diane on daily basis, and today she can’t go anywhere in town without being immediately recognized. Hearing someone say, ‘I remember you — you fed me all through school!’ continues to make her smile. She will be missed, and the whole community wishes her a happy and healthy retirement! [Skip Tull photo]

Schools hire lone finalist, Robert Shaw, as new principal of Hull High

By Carol Britton Meyer

The former principal of North Quincy High School and current leader of a Massachusetts virtual high school has been hired as the new principal of Hull High School.

robert Shaw, who has been hired as hull high’s new principal, participated in community meetings in Hull last week.

Robert Shaw signed a contract on Monday, June 10 to replace Michael Knybel, who recently announced his resignation prior to the expiration of his contract. Shaw was one of 15 applicants for the position and the only finalist remaining after one candidate was ruled out and another withdrew.

Superintendent of Schools Judith Kuehn, who is retiring at the end of the school year, announced that Shaw had been chosen at this week’s school committee meeting, calling it “extremely exciting news for the future of the Hull Public Schools.”

Kuehn and incoming Superintendent of Schools Michael Jette met with Shaw last week about the position, and Shaw notified them over the weekend of his interest in becoming the next HHS principal. Shaw had participated in community forums last week, in which he met with parents, staff, and community members.

“He is comfortable with our leadership team, and [I‘m pleased to be] leaving [HHS] in good shape,” Kuehn said.

Shaw, who held a number of positions in North Quincy, is currently the high school principal at The Education Cooperative Connections Academy in Walpole, a tuition-free Massachusetts online public school offering a kindergarten through Grade 12 curriculum.

Shaw has a background as an English teacher at North Quincy High School for 10 years at the beginning of his career and later, as NQH’s assistant principal and principal.

Shaw and Jette will meet with staff on June 17.

“I haven’t met [Shaw] yet, but I’ve heard very good things about him,” school committee Chair David Twombly said. “He’s all about the students and having good relationships with the staff.”

Committee member Liliana Hedrick gave a “big shout-out to the search committee” for its role in the process.

Due to the tight timeframe for hiring a new principal so close to the end of the school year, Kuehn and the school committee said they are relieved that her backup plan to move forward with an interim principal if a suitable candidate was not found – and then go through the search process again next year – was not necessary.

Before Shaw accepted the position, he was scheduled to participate in a Hingham Public Schools virtual community forum on Wednesday, June 12, as one of the two finalists in the search for a new Hingham High School. The other finalist, Alan Strauss, was interviewed on Tuesday, June 11, but no hiring decision had been made by the Times’ deadline.

Like what you’re reading? Stay informed with a Hull Times subscription by clicking here.

Do you have an opinion to share? Click here to write a Letter to the Editor.

Town asks HRA for $150K to close funding gap for Fort Revere tower restoration

By Dolores Sauca Lorusso

The town manager has formally requested that the Hull Redevelopment Authority contribute $150,000 to restore the historic Fort Revere water tower, and will meet with the authority next week to discuss the cost-gap funding with the authority.

The project was first put out to bid in early 2023, and estimates for the work were higher than available funds, leading the town to request additional funding at special town meeting in fall 2023. The additional money was not approved.

Town Manager Jennifer Constable and Town Planner Chris DiIorio will meet in person with the HRA at the Memorial Middle School on Monday, June 17.

After years of deterioration, the crumbling structure, which offers sweeping views of Boston Harbor from its observation deck, was ordered closed by the town the winter of 2012 after an engineer advised that it was no longer safe for visitors to climb.

In their letter to the HRA requesting funding for the tower project, Constable and DiIorio said “the community has been active in advocating for the tower to be revitalized for years and is excited to have it restored to its original condition.”

The Fort Revere water tower is included on the National and State Register of Historic Places and is located on one of the points of the star-shaped Fort Independence (1778) and dates from 1903. It is the earliest known use of reinforced concrete for a water tower in the nation.

The initial estimate for the rehabilitation of the tower ranged from $1.5 to $1.7 million. The May 2022 town meeting approved $2.2 million for the project. In the meantime, the cost – reflected in the three latest bids – had increased to an estimated $2.5 to $3 million.

The project scope was revised and put out to bid for a second time in early 2024, and the low bid received in March was $2.35 million, leaving the $150,000 gap in funding being requested of the HRA.

The tower rehabilitation includes concrete and masonry repairs, replacement of existing concrete observation platform, restoration of existing windows, replacement of existing concrete stairs with new metal stairs, replacement of existing interior and exterior lighting, replacement of existing slate roofing; new high performance coatings of exterior walls, and new traffic coating on observation deck, new exterior ornamental fence around tower base, and replacement of concrete sidewalks.

Gisela Voss, of Hampton Circle suggested that the HRA do something creative to raise funds for the water tower project, like matching dollar-for-dollar whatever is raised up to $150,000.

Voss also was interested to learn if the $2.3 million includes any set-aside funds, such as 10% of the total, for maintenance and upkeep. In addition, she expressed the desire to find out the state’s plans for the property and how they work with the town’s plans. The Department of Conservation and Recreation owns some of the bunkers, while the town owns other parts of the property, including the tower.

At its meeting on June 3, HRA members compiled a list of questions to send to Constable and DiIorio in advance of June 17 so they would be prepared with the answers. The hope is the board would be able to vote on whether to provide the funding to the tower rehabilitation at their meeting on Monday night at 6 p.m.

HRA Chair Dennis Zaia  said he was interested in the bigger picture for the tower, and wants to know whether the town is seeking funding besides Community Preservation Act money.

“What doesn’t get done if they don’t raise the other $150,000 for the project; does it kill the project?” HRA member Bartley Kelly asked. “I am all for preserving things, but what is the end game…I want to be a good steward of the HRA money and the town. It is a double-edged sword because the town did vote to preserve it and a lot of people want to spend the money. If we cut the $150,000, where does that leave us?”

HRA member Joan Senatore said at special town meeting in August 2023, DiIorio was asked about whether the town sought other grant money. Senatore said from her memory DiIorio said there wasn’t much out there; “it was like $100,000.”

“If there was $100,000 out there and they got it, that would reduce it to $50,000. I think we would be more of a partner if they exhausted other grant monies and not just expect us to foot the whole $150,000 gap,” said Senatore. “What changed the scope, what are we getting for the 2.3? If we don’t give them the $150,000, does it kill the project, or slice off one of the pieces of the scope of the work?”

The HRA’s Dan Kernan asked about whether timing was a factor in the town’s request.

“What is the goal? Are they going to fix it up and continue to have funding to maintain it and keep it…what are they thinking of doing with it, because I think that is a big part of whether we (HRA) support it or not,” said Kernan. “The whole town should know what they want to do with it.”

“This current requested donation for $150,000 will be applied toward actual construction repairs to the tower, which will assist Hull to meet its legal obligation as the owner of the tower,” said Patrick Finn, who lives near the fort and supports its restoration. “We have been trying to prioritize this project for years. We’re responsible for it. Let’s fix it. It’s worth every penny. Not doing so would open the town p to liability.”

“I love this conversation, because I think it is incredibly relevant because in my historical commission hat, we have begun to look at this in a townwide perspective.,” said Hull Historical Commission member Steven Greenberg. “Tonight, I was just working with a list of the 25 of the most historic sites in the town because there are many sites and many of them are in disrepair and will require money.”

“It was very exciting at town meeting to hear [the] town manager talk about a capital stabilization fund. Most importantly I think that the HRA might be the one that rescues this at this time but could also be the one that initiates the long-term planning and the incentive to move us forward as a community, not just as a reactive community, but as a proactive community… to do a comprehensive look at all of this,” Greenberg said.

Like what you’re reading? Stay informed with a Hull Times subscription by clicking here.

Do you have an opinion to share? Click here to write a Letter to the Editor.

Historic MA military group’s change-of-command ceremony features a local connection

On Monday, June 3, Governor Maura Healey participated in the change-of-command ceremony for the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company – a centuries-old tradition on Boston Common that took on a uniquely local flavor this year, as both the outgoing and incoming commanding officers are Hullonians.

THE HULL CONNECTION. Incoming Captain Commanding Michael Fish, left, and outgoing commanding officer Tim Haraden of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company took a moment from the change-of-command ceremony in Boston to pose with the statue of another veteran who spent time in Hull, President John F. Kennedy. At right, Haraden accompanies Governor Maura Healey across Boston Common. [Photos by Barton Hyte and Kirsten Haraden]

---

The Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts is the oldest chartered military organization in the Western Hemisphere. Its charter was granted in March 1638 by the Great and General Court of Massachusetts Bay and signed by Governor John Winthrop.

On the first Monday in June each year, company members march from historic Faneuil Hall to the Common, where they conduct the change-of-command ceremonies, followed by a church service in honor of the fallen, and a banquet to mark the occasion. In keeping with tradition, military units conducted a pass-and-review in front of the governor, visiting dignitaries, and a traditional salute from howitzers by the 101st Field Artillery.

This year, 315th Captain Commanding Timothy Haraden turned over leadership of the 700+ member organization to incoming Captain Michael A. Fish. Both men currently live in Hull.

In addition to Haraden, outgoing officers included  Lt. Stephen Colella of Wakefield and Lt. Michael Wabrek of Amesbury. Incoming officers are Fish, Lt. John Damiano of Braintree and Lt. Robert Collins of Melrose.

Since 1746, the Ancients have been headquartered at Faneuil Hall in Boston, and maintain a unique military history museum and library on the top floor of the historic building. Relics of every war in which the country has been involved in are featured in the museum. According to a history of the organization, “Members of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company have served in every battlefield from Bunker Hill to Yorktown, the War of 1812 and the Civil War, both World Wars, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Strom, and Afghanistan. Its members still serve at home and abroad today.”

The biggest event of each year is the Fall Field Day Tour of Duty, generally a week-long goodwill trip. In the early years, this was a training period held after the harvest season (and formed the pattern of the two-week active duty training that the National Guard and reserve forces still use today). Eventually, these trips evolved to promote relationships between military units of different states and countries.

Haraden took the company to London during his leadership term, where members participated in a church service at St George’s chapel in Windsor Castle, followed by a parade through the city with the mayor – and the town crier – to lay a wreath at the home of the birthplace of the Ancients’ founder, the first captain commanding, Captain Robert Keayne. Members also held a banquet at the Palace of Windsor (more familiarly known as the House of Parliament) with members of Parliament, British and US military officers, and other dignitaries.

Fish had planned to take the company to Israel for a similar trip, but given recent world events, chose the alternate destination of New Orleans in the coming year.

Like what you’re reading? Stay informed with a Hull Times subscription by clicking here.

Do you have an opinion to share? Click here to write a Letter to the Editor.

Reflections on tensions of past year provide a roadmap for incoming HHS principal

By Victoria Dolan

As the school year ended for Hull High on Thursday, tensions remained over impending transitions in the aftermath of Principal Michael Knybel’s resignation.

The Hull Public Schools recently announced that the district has hired Robert Shaw as principal to replace Knybel, who will resign at the end of the school year, prior to the expiration of his contract.

Shaw will enter into a school community seemingly at odds with itself.

“I feel like the parents are divided from the teachers and the administration,” said parent Mary Schultz.

Many parents and students celebrated Knybel’s accomplishments, and expressed disappointment and confusion at his resignation.

Junior Tallulla Clancy was “extremely sad and ashamed that Hull would let him go,” because Knybel was “always putting students first.” In an independent survey of more than a dozen students, many expressed similar sentiments of confusion over Knybel’s departure, given his advocacy for the student body.

A document outlining issues at the school obtained by the Times revealed possible causes behind Knybel’s resignation, and a path forward for Shaw.

Reportedly, Hull High teachers took a vote in which 90% of those participating indicated “no confidence” in Knybel’s ability to run the school. According to this document, the vote was based on allegations of racist and derogatory comments about staff, a failure to complete teacher evaluations and state-mandated drills, and the creation of a culture that pitted students, teachers, and parents against each other. The document was not signed.

The job Shaw has ahead is not easy, but it is crucial – in a time of transition, with a new superintendent, principal, and school configuration, stakeholders are craving change and unity. 

“We need to come together with teachers, administration, and parents having more open dialogue, and all have a voice that they feel are truly being listened to,” said parent Christine Murray, where “students are the focus of all three groups.”

Katherine Orpen, a just-graduated senior, hopes Shaw will build a connection with students while “advocating for both the teachers and the students when needed.”

“I’m hoping to see guidance, and I’m hoping to see leadership” from Shaw, said Schultz. “There has to be 100% transparency.”

Victoria Dolan is a 2024 graduate of Hull High School. This column reflects her viewpoint.

Expect delays, detours as work begins on Pemberton sewer pumping station

An 18-month project that will replace the sewer pumping station at Pemberton began this week. According to the sewer department, D & C Construction Inc. of Weymouth has started work on Pump Station No. 9 in the parking lot across Main Street from Hull High School. A staging area is being set up in the parking lot and by Monday, June 17, the company is expected to fence off most of the parking lot to the first exit.

Construction work on the $2 million, federally funded project is expected to take place between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. on weekdays. Ferry parking and pedestrian routes will be affected. Commuters are asked to park along Main Street near the Hull Lifesaving Museum Boathouse; signage will direct cars and pedestrians around the construction area. At some point during the next year and a half, crews may need to perform work within the boundaries of Main Street.

Anyone with questions about the project or the detours can call the sewer department, 781-925-1207, or email sewer@town.hull.ma.us.

Like what you’re reading? Stay informed with a Hull Times subscription by clicking here.

Do you have an opinion to share? Click here to write a Letter to the Editor.

Paragon Dunes developer withdraws from environmental review, to revise flood control plan

By Dolores Sauca Lorusso

The developer proposing the Paragon Dunes mixed-use project has withdrawn from a state environmental review process and will resubmit its Environmental Notification Form to address flood resiliency concerns.

In a June 3 letter to the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act Office, The Procopio Companies Vice President of Development David Roache said the company sought withdrawal to address the issues raised by state officials.

“Given the narrow scope of the comments received from state agencies, we feel the best course of action is to resubmit a revised ENF,” said Roache, who also acknowledged comments from planning board members and the public that the MEPA review had not been adequately advertised.

“While the submission followed all regulations, restarting the process will allow additional time for review to avoid any perception that the review process was rushed,” he wrote to MEPA Environmental Analyst Eva Vaughan.

Click here to read the full Environmental Notification Form

Click here to read the comments by various state agencies

Click here to read Procopio’s letter of withdrawal from June 3, 2024

The proposed development will include 132 residential units, commercial uses, an elevated courtyard with an inground pool, public open spaces, landscaping, a stormwater treatment system, a parking garage and surface parking for a total of 180 cars. As presented in the ENF, the new structure will have four stories, including three stories of residential units above first-floor commercial space. The garage level, located partially below the street grade of Nantasket Avenue, will consist of parking and storage areas for residents, as well as an enclosed trash room and utility spaces.

Two months after receiving planning board approval of its special permit, on May 20 Procopio finalized the purchase of the property for $6 million from Nantasket Dune Holdings LLC. The seasonal businesses that previously operated there, including the Paragon Boardwalk, arcade, ice cream stand, and miniature golf course, are not scheduled to reopen this summer.

Construction on the site cannot begin until the environmental review is completed and all building permits are issued.

During the MEPA review by several state agencies, some analyses requested include grading plans with cross-sections that show the existing and proposed grades, as well as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) flood zone elevations; evaluation of how these grade changes will affect the flow of coastal floodwaters; studies adequately characterizing how high groundwater conditions at the site will impact the viability of the proposed infiltration system.

The Department of Conservation and Recreation said a Construction and Access Permit (CAP) will be required for work activities within the boundaries of the DCR’s property

“Additional details regarding the velocity and volume of overtopping flood waters entering the site are necessary to assess potential negative impacts, to properties under the care and control of DCR, resulting from diversion of flood flows and reflection of wave energy onto Nantasket Ave., the comfort station site, and the parking lot adjacent to the beach,” the agency wrote in its comments.

The Dunes project would connect into existing stormwater systems that serve DCR’s parking lot on George Washington Boulevard, or would access discharge locations by crossing DCR property. The DCR pointed out more information is needed to assess the potential impacts to these systems.

The DCR requires proof that the project will have no negative impacts to DCR’s stormwater infrastructure, its function, and the Weir River Area of Critical Environmental Concern, while the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) advised a full technical review for compliance with Chapter 91 waterways regulations.

Coastal Zone Management Director Alison Brizius wrote that FEMA flood maps predict that in a major storm, there will be three feet of overwash, with waves coming over the seawall along Nantasket Beach and moving across the project site.

“The proposed buildings and vertical walls at grade could channelize floodwater through smaller areas, increasing the velocity and volume of floodwaters, likely increasing storm damage to landward infrastructure, including the DCR parking area and George Washington Boulevard,” according to CZM. “Since Nantasket Avenue and George Washington Boulevard are the only two roads in and out of Hull, it is important that alternative designs be considered for this development to minimize the potential to cause damage to these evacuation routes.”

According to CZM, the geotechnical boring analyses conducted on the site confirm the location meets the definition of a coastal dune and should be delineated as such on the project plans.

The CZM noted the coastal dune functions on the project site are limited due to past development.

FEMA has determined through post-storm assessments as well as laboratory analyses that buildings built at grade with solid walls in Coastal A Zones, such as this project, are subject to structural damage. As a result, FEMA recommended in its 2011 Coastal Construction Manual that buildings in Coastal A Zones be built to Velocity Zone Standards, such as on open pilings.

“Although this code is not in effect yet, elevating new buildings in Coastal A Zones on open pilings is a best practice and should be further evaluated for this site,” according to the CZM letter.

The review of the Paragon Dunes project was continued to the Tuesday June 11 meeting of the Hull Conservation Commission; it is not clear whether the ENF withdrawal will affect this timetable.

Like what you’re reading? Stay informed with a Hull Times subscription by clicking here.

Do you have an opinion to share? Click here to write a Letter to the Editor.

Nesoff named new chair as Select Board reorganizes, makes several volunteer committee appointments

By Carol Britton Meyer

Irwin Nesoff was unanimously elected as select board chair for the coming year at Wednesday’s meeting, while former Chair Greg Grey was made the new vice chair on another unanimous vote.

TO THE RESCUE: The town received a check for $300,461 in American Rescue Plan Act funds to pay for an ambulance. ARPA money comes from the federal government and is in response to the COVID19 pandemic; it must be allocated by the end of this year. Shown at Wednesday’s check presentation are select board members Greg Grey and Jerry Taverna, Deputy Fire Chief William Frazier, select board member Brian McCarthy, Plymouth County Commissioner Chair Jared Valanzola, select board members Jason McCann and Irwin Nesoff, Town Manager Jennifer Constable, and Fire Chief Chris Russo. [Photo courtesy of James Lampke]

“It’s been a fun experience being chair for a year,” Grey said before physically moving his seat at the table. “Now it’s time to switch chairs!”

Jason McCann agreed to serve as clerk for another year on another unanimous vote.

Nesoff thanked Grey for his work as chair.

“You’ve done a momentous job in moving the board forward, and I hope to continue that work and build upon what we have accomplished in the past year,” he said.

“This was the quickest reorganization in several years!” quipped Grey.

“That’s because we all get along so well,” Nesoff said.

In other business at the meeting

• Plymouth County Commissioner Jared Valanzola presented an American Rescue Plan Act check for $300,461 to the board to cover the cost of the new Hull Fire Department ambulance, which is already in service.

Chief Chris Russo expressed appreciation for the grant.

“This is wonderful for the department and the community,” he said.

This is on top of earlier grants of $595,000 toward the sewer department ocean outfall rehabilitation project that began in December 2023 and additional ARPA funding of $986,803 last fall.

 The ARPA bill was a response to the COVID19 pandemic, geared toward addressing both the health and economic impacts of the pandemic.

• In keeping with the select board’s goal to make appointments to various committees and boards by the end of June each year, interviews were conducted for the newly formed beautification committee, permanent sewer commission, veterans’ council, and the war memorial commission.

The following appointments were made:

• Beautification committee: Anne Finley, Leandro Rosa, and Betsy Russo, all for a three-year term. Finley and Russo are Hull Garden Club members, with Russo serving as president. Rosa thought serving on the committee would be a good way to “do something for the town.” There are four remaining seats to fill on the seven-member committee. More applicants will be interviewed June 26.

The newly-created beautification committee intends to enhance the natural beauty of the town and to “cultivate a more visually appealing and vibrant community by actively spearheading projects that elevate the aesthetics of public spaces.”

• John Clougherty and Jordan Depenbrock were interviewed for two seats on the permanent sewer commission, with additional applicants to be interviewed at the board’s next meeting, when the appointments are expected to be made.

• Current Veterans’ Council members Philip Bellone, Robert Bowes, David Irwin, and Andrew Wohar were interviewed after expressing an interest in being reappointed, along with Peter-Michael Preble – the minister of the St. Nicholas Church in Hull Village – James Richman, Jr. –who recently revitalized the American Legion in Hull – and Kenneth Walsh, an advocate for veterans. Because there are more applicants than there are available seats on the council and more potential interviews on June 26, the appointments will be made that night.

• Current War Memorial Commission members Edward Burke, Andrew Wohar, and Ernest Minelli, III were reappointed to the commission, and Joseph Grieco was reappointed as an alternate member.

Interviews for the one opening on the board of health will be held June 26.

“This is what makes Hull a special place to live,” Nesoff said, referring to the large number of candidates interested in serving in various capacities on a volunteer basis.

Like what you’re reading? Stay informed with a Hull Times subscription by clicking here.

Do you have an opinion to share? Click here to write a Letter to the Editor.

‘Climate Adaptation Roadmap’ to address flooding, rising sea level in Hampton Circle area

By Carol Britton Meyer

“The Hampton Circle Area Climate Adaptation Roadmap” report provides short-term and long-term recommended actions for the Hampton Circle area, which floods frequently and is particularly vulnerable to sea level rise, storm surge, and high tide.

Long-term strategies could include wall and drainage improvements, a home elevation program, building a raised road, or pursuing “planned retreat” of residents and natural restoration of the land.

Hampton Circle, a residential neighborhood with year-round homes, is a mini-peninsula located along the western side of Hull on the harbor-facing side of the barrier beach. Residents say they live life by the tidal cycles, according to the report: “Keeping track of low and high tides drives daily activities and helps them prepare for flooding.”

Tides are projected to increase in this area due to climate change, with exceptionally high tides documented in recent years.

Click here to read the Climate Adaptation Roadmap

Climate Adaptation & Conservation Department Director Chris Krahforst provided an update on the report to the select board and the climate adaptation committee this week.

“This is a problem area we’ve been working on for the past three years,” he said.

Public meeting scheduled for this month

A public meeting about the report will be held in the Hampton Circle area, weather permitting, this month, with more details to come.

The project is a cooperative effort among the town, the Weston & Sampson engineering team, and the state Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness program, which is funding the initiative.

The purpose of the roadmap is to identify the areas of the neighborhood that are being impacted more immediately by climate change, with adaptation and resiliency strategies still under development.

It is hoped that this process will be transferable to developing strategies in other problem areas in town, such as Cadish Avenue, as outlined in the Town of Hull Hazard Mitigation Plan 2024 Update, which is posted on the town’s website.

The report addresses a wide range of considerations, including shoreline flood mitigation, emergency access, open space improvements, private property adaptation, and ecological restoration. In short, the roadmap will serve as a guide for the town and community in envisioning the future of this area under the conditions of climate change.

Culmination of year’s work

The report – the culmination of a year’s work involving community engagement and technical analysis, the MVP, and the town – includes photographs of flooding in the area, information about projected flooding, a public engagement summary, and an overview of design options related to shoreline protection and drainage improvements to help increase climate resiliency.

“The roadmap considers climate change predictions for 2030, 2050, and 2070, including what sea level rise we may expect at those future horizons,” according to Krahforst.

The “2070 Possible Design Vision” outlined in the report is intended as a conversation starter, exploring a possible future scenario in which the Hampton Circle area is exposed to daily tidal flooding and is regularly at risk of significant storm flooding.

In this vision, flood protection is established using the 2070 1% annual chance flood elevation and builds upon 2050 mitigation strategies, keeping in place the seawalls while expanding possible floodable park space and potentially converting Moreland Avenue to a spanning bridge.

“If residents in this area accept buyouts for their homes in the future and subsidized funding to enable relocation to safer areas, the central wetland park areas could be re-naturalized to reflect its historic condition and provide greater climate resilience for the rest of the Hampton Circle Area,” according to the report.

2070 adaptation strategies could also include barrier wall and resilient drainage improvements, expansion of the home elevation grant program, a raised roadway, and pursuing planned retreat and ecological restoration in the area.

Home elevation program

The town has a partnership with the Federal Emergency Management Agency to help fund home elevations for private property, for which many Hampton Circle residents may be eligible.

“Given the projected flood vulnerability for the HCA, the neighborhood may become less habitable in the future,” the report states. “The area, which already experiences flooding from high tides, storms, and rain events, has limited access when roads become flooded. Planned retreat is one climate adaptation strategy in which property owners receive the fair market value for their property in order to relocate to a safer area.”

That said, “HCA residents are not [currently ready] to consider planned retreat in their future plans,” Krahforst said.

Immediate next steps include repairing the existing flood wall, making stormwater system improvements, and continuing home elevation program outreach to help increase participation. Another possibility is installing temporary flood protection barriers.

The town has already applied for funding from the MVP fund to complete the 75% design and develop permitting applications of wetlands restoration, culvert, tide gate, and green infrastructure designs as well as pump station relocation (fiscal year 2024-2026).

“Interim measures are being actively worked on [among various town boards and committees], because the flooding will get worse,” Town Manager Jennifer Constable said.

Phase 2 of this project will advance concept designs developed during the first phase, with continued community outreach. The project is expected to continue for the next two years.

Like what you’re reading? Stay informed with a Hull Times subscription by clicking here.

Do you have an opinion to share? Click here to write a Letter to the Editor.