During the joint session with the Affordable Housing Trust Board, the Select Board entered into an executive session. However, details of the discussions were not disclosed due to the confidential nature of the session.

The board then moved on to three public hearings, which all had implications for the town’s infrastructure and development projects. The first public hearing resulted in the approval of NSTAR Electric Company’s petition to install conduit under Phoebe Lane, a move that would likely contribute to the enhancement of local utility services. The DPW director’s lack of concerns over the application underscored the straightforward nature of this infrastructure enhancement.

Similarly, the second public hearing led to the approval of a petition from Verizon New England and NSTAR Electric for the placement of new jointly-owned poles on Morton Road.

The third public hearing involved another issue regarding a request for increased sewer flow for a property aspiring to host a new 110-seat restaurant. The applicant and their engineer presented recommendations from the Historic Business District Commission and the Water and Sewer Advisory Committee. However, a public procedural inquiry related to the property’s historical ownership by Cumberland Farms introduced a note of complexity into the decision-making process. Despite this, the board did not take immediate action.

The Select Board’s attention to the restaurant project continued as they discussed the approval for an increase in sewer flow for a property on Main Street LLC. A debate emerged over the exact increase in sewer flow necessary, with the board ultimately supporting the request. This decision will enable the establishment to manage the waste and water needs of a larger customer base.

The board also considered the appointment and reappointment interview process for 2024, reflecting on the need for interviews with incumbent members of the Economic Development Committee and others.

The Town Manager’s report provided a snapshot of municipal operations, with updates on employee milestones, new hires, and promotions, alongside mentions of the upcoming annual town meeting and the correction of motions for the same. Notably, the report included developments in park and recreation activities, with the installation of new pickleball courts and playground equipment at Volunteer Park signaling enhancements to community recreational facilities.

The meeting concluded with the board motioning to enter an executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategies, specifically regarding tentative agreements with various employee associations, including the Chatham Permanent Firefighters International Association of Firefighters Local 2712B and Chatham Sergeants and Police Officers Mass Coalition of Police Officers (MOP) Local 294.