During the meeting, the committee examined Barnstable’s approach to facade improvements, which includes leveraging state resources and a business improvement district. Members discussed the possibility of initiating one or two pilot projects, with funding ranging between $10,000 to $20,000. They reviewed Barnstable’s program where funding awards can vary from $1,000 up to $88,000, contingent upon a matching contribution from applicants. The committee grappled with the logistics of implementing such a program in Yarmouth, including oversight mechanisms, matching fund requirements, and the scope of improvements eligible under the program.

A significant portion of the meeting revolved around the potential involvement of the Chamber of Commerce in administering the facade improvement program. There was debate over whether to extend the existing Chamber of Commerce contract or to draft a new one to encompass this program. The committee also discussed the timeline for applications and awards, and the availability of funds.

Despite the rigorous debate over the specifics, the committee members expressed a collective desire to advance with the facade improvement program. They recognized the need for further plansning and clarification on several program aspects, including understanding the full cost implications and the logistical challenges of running the program alongside other tourism initiatives.

They considered submitting an application to the state’s economic development office to support this initiative. There was a debate about the program’s focus and the Chamber of Commerce’s role in its implementation.

In addition to the facade improvement program, the committee received an update on the Broadband project. The IT director provided insights into the project’s status and funding needs, addressing some confusion regarding the matching funds required. It was clarified that the match could be in-kind, and the application for the project was ready for submission.

Also on the agenda was the progress report from the Wastewater Resource Advisory Committee on the Water Resource Recovery Facility. The committee discussed the ongoing design work, contracts, and permitting processes associated with this infrastructure project.

Furthermore, the committee reviewed the allocation of funds for the tourism revenue preservation fund, as outlined in Article 27. They analyzed the fund’s distribution across various domains, including administrative costs, special events, marketing, public improvements, and economic development projects. Notably, the allocation for the sand sculpture trail was reviewed, along with the renewal of the Chamber of Commerce contract.

The committee also highlighted the importance of a public hearing scheduled for April 9th, 2024, which will address the extension of certain Covid-19 measures and their implications for the local economy. Additionally, reminders were given for the upcoming Board of Selectmen meeting on April 23rd, 2024, and the town meeting on April 30th, 2024.