The community of Westport is set to receive improved infrastructure and public health protection following decisions made at the latest Select Board meeting. The board authorized the Town Administrator to sign a $4 million grant, which, along with additional funds, will be used to extend the water line along Route 6 and improve internet connectivity in the north of Route 6 area. Public health concerns were addressed with a new fish consumption advisory for South Watuppa Pond and a request to test a well at the Briggs Road fire station for contaminants. Furthermore, the board approved a contract for a new town website and discussed a collaborative policy for East Beach cobble management.

The most significant item on the agenda was the authorization for the Town Administrator to sign the emerging small and disadvantaged communities grant for $4 million. The funding, which is critical for the extension of the water line along Route 6, is part of an infrastructure project estimated to cost over $5.1 million. The grant is to be supplemented with $648,000 from Opa funds and further financial support from Senator Rodricks. With concerns over the escalating cost of the project, the board discussed the importance of ensuring that the project is completed within the financial constraints, including the possibility of bidding out the project with a bid alternate.

In relation to public health, a new fish consumption advisory was issued for South Watuppa Pond in Fall River and Westport due to elevated levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The advisory specifically recommended that sensitive populations refrain from consuming fish from the pond. Furthermore, the need to test the well at the Briggs Road fire station was brought up, with the board agreeing to allow testing due to high levels of PFAS detected in the vicinity. The potential installation of a filtration system at the fire station was also considered to ensure the safety of the water supply.

Technological advancements for the community were discussed with the approval of a contract for a new website with Revis for $32,400, utilizing state-earmarked funds. The Town Administrator highlighted that the new website would be cost-effective and offer quality service, including the development, training, and data migration. Additionally, the board approved the authorization to sign a community compact fiber grant contract for $250,000, which aims to enhance internet connectivity by building a fiber loop in the northern area of Route 6.

Another infrastructure update came from the Town Administrator regarding the installation of a new well at the town annex to address water supply issues. After successful installation and ongoing compliance testing, the board considered a potential transfer of funds to cover unexpected costs associated with the well project.

The board also took action on environmental management, discussing an East Beach storm deposited cobble interim policy, which was still pending finalization. Members of the East Beach Improvement Association expressed their readiness to work with the town on this policy and on broader beach nourishment and coastal resiliency efforts.

Other matters handled included the approval of a six-month seasonal trailer permit, one-day wine and malt licenses for events at Weatherlow Farms and the Holy Ghost Club, and several appointments and resignations from the Zoning Board of Appeals. Additionally, the board addressed the need for road improvements in relation to a comprehensive permit application for a new housing development.

The meeting concluded with discussions on various committee positions, including the Ada transition plan committee and the Public Safety Staffing committee, with suggestions to further evaluate their purpose. The board also reviewed the Bristol County Advisory Board and the Southeastern Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board appointments, and touched on the circuit breaker reimbursement for special needs from the state.