One notable concerns was the condition and management of East Beach. The board approved several projects to be funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, including street improvements, with a specific mention of the need to obligate the funds by June to avoid losing them. Part of the discussion centered on the repair of East Beach Road and whether to repave it with Pas grant money. The Climate Resiliency Committee recommended deferring medium and long-term East Beach policy recommendations until the publication of a relevant study, while also pursuing financial resources to potentially offer lot owners the option to sell their lots. The Planning Board presented recommendations including ensuring compliance with National Flood Insurance Program regulations and applying for Coastal Zone Management Grant funds to develop a beach management plan.

The board also considered the need for a redundant system to address flooding on East Beach and debated the utility of a policy on the placement of cobble on East Beach Road. The potential public benefit of beach nourishment was discussed, alongside the possibility of applying for a grant to cover 75% of the cost. Plans to coordinate a meeting with Eversource to explore options for redesigning the electricity supply to East Beach and to discuss potential easements were also on the agenda.

In addition to coastal concerns, the board addressed the environmental impact of sewer systems throughout the town. With potential future regulations possibly requiring sewer systems over septic systems, the board discussed public trust and transparency, particularly the availability of reports and information on the town’s infrastructure projects. The Town Administrator reported that the town received a $4 million grant for extending water infrastructure along Route 6, which marked a step towards improving the town’s infrastructure and addressing environmental considerations.

Concerns were raised about the condition of East Beach Road, prompting the board to approve a recommendation for the Horse Neck Half Marathon, contingent on details about the road condition. However, the request for the Bikes and Beers cycling event was tabled due to concerns raised by the police about the proposed route.

The meeting also touched on zoning regulations and the impact of a failed debt exclusion on the commercial district. The need to address public fears related to multifamily housing within the proposed zoning changes was a topic of discussion. Members debated the best approach to educate the public about the benefits and financial implications of the changes, as well as to address concerns about water quality and the impact on public wells.

The board approved the appointment of a commissioner and a select board representative to the affordable housing trust, a critical step in addressing the town’s housing needs. Additionally, the Select Board approved a seasonal laborer for the cemetery department, accepted a resignation from the Westport affordable housing trust fund, and approved a donation to the Council on Aging. A monitoring contract for the Mass Audubon Plover was also greenlit.

Furthermore, the Select Board approved the designation of primary and alternate signers for the bill warrant. Liaison committee updates were provided, including from the Train Committee and the Internet Advisory Committee, though no public comment was made during this portion of the meeting.

In an effort to enhance town operations, the board discussed allocating funds for software upgrades and hardware in various town departments, intending to use Bristol County money to offset some road construction costs.

The meeting concluded with an executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategies and the approval of meeting minutes, a standard procedure for handling sensitive administrative matters.