The receipt of the draft groundwater discharge permit represented the culmination of a multi-year effort by the town. The board emphasized the collaborative work that contributed to this achievement, including the roles of the Water Resources Advisory Committee, town consultants, and government officials. The permit allows Yarmouth to proceed with the next phase of contracts for wastewater treatment. This development was particularly noteworthy given the challenges and high costs associated with solid waste management.

The meeting also covered the ongoing water quality initiatives in Yarmouth. The Water Wastewater superintendent provided an update, assuring the board and public that Yarmouth maintains the best water quality on Cape Cod and is in compliance with EPA regulations. Efforts to address potential drought and water conservation were discussed, along with an update on the town’s service line inventory project, which aims to identify lead service lines. Critical construction projects related to the water supply, such as the treatment of Wells 4 and 5 and the reactivation of Well 9, were highlighted. The board also discussed the seasonal treatment plan for Wells 10 and 11 to comply with new EPA regulations, which includes piloting, design, and construction phases, along with an application for funding.

Apart from water-related topics, the Select Board approved a special entertainment license for a family-friendly “Meet a Mermaid” event at Parker River Beach in partnership with Yarmouth Recreation and Yarmouth libraries. The event aims to provide children with engaging activities, such as games, storytelling, and a beach movie night.

In the public comments section, residents brought forward several concerns. A resident’s dissatisfaction with the handling of high levels of PFAS and nitrate in the town’s water supply prompted a call for more proactive measures from the board. Another resident advocated for the board’s endorsement of a regional transportation study to address beach erosion, traffic noise, and plane emission pollution. Additional community suggestions included keeping the snack bar at Smuggler’s Beach open throughout the summer and improving communication regarding road closures and the condition of public infrastructure.

The board also engaged in discussions about the reorganization of its members, resulting in the election of Michael Stone as chairman and Dorcas McGurrin as vice-chair. Tracy Post was appointed as the clerk, and various other committee appointments were confirmed. During this process, the board deliberated on the rotation of the chair position and the term limits for appointments, reflecting on the importance of Yarmouth’s representation in committees, especially concerning transportation projects.

Further discussions included the progress on the Links Course, with emphasis on improvements such as new irrigation systems and renovations to enhance playability and manage water buildup. The board expressed satisfaction with the ongoing work, praising the project for coming in under budget and on time. Additionally, the Public Works director provided an update on the beach opening, including relocation of facilities and parking space considerations due to nesting birds.

The financial implications of a Regional Emergency Communication Center were briefed by the chair of the finance committee, highlighting the potential benefits of regionalization for emergency communications. This included improved dispatcher quality of life and access to advanced technology. Concerns about the allocation of Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB) liabilities were raised and addressed, with the finance director explaining the cost assessments for member communities.

The board also touched upon the impact of short-term rentals on affordable housing and the need for a community-wide analysis. Potential collaborations with regional boards or county government were suggested to address this burgeoning issue.

In the realm of community engagement, the board discussed the library grant application process, the importance of a transparent committee structure, and the need for public involvement in the design and construction phases. A workshop to establish priority goals and enhance coordination with town staff was planned, with a date suggested for July 20th.

The meeting concluded with updates from the town administrator, including the approval of a substantial Broadband Grant and progress on housing and open space plans.