Overview: The recent Manchester-By-The-Sea Finance Committee meeting brought to light pressing financial concerns, particularly surrounding the town’s fire department and the broader fiscal challenges impacting budgeting and capital planning. Discussions centered on the transition from a volunteer-based call fire department to a full-time service to address low wages and response times. Additionally, the committee grappled with rising costs across multiple sectors, including health care and infrastructure, emphasizing the need for strategic financial management.