The meeting primarily focused on two proposed zoning amendments slated for discussion at the special town meeting. The first amendment involved revising the methodology for determining fees paid in lieu of creating affordable housing units, a topic that saw no public input but raised potential questions about the Housing and Livable Communities office’s role. The board confirmed that if approved, the changes would take effect on July 1, 2025. This would allow any development applications submitted before this date to use the existing methodology.

The second zoning article addressed seasonal employee housing, proposing a limit on the number of rooms designated for such housing at hotels and motels to a maximum of 15% within the designated overlay district. Discussions highlighted concerns about prior abuses of seasonal housing allowances, with the amendment seeking to prevent misuse by eliminating special permit or variance relief. The board emphasized the need for a clear, enforceable rule to maintain the 15% limit and noted that the Chamber of Commerce did not oppose the amendment.

The discussion extended to a draft letter intended for the Select Board, prepared by Jim Sabin and Will Rubenstein. The letter expressed the planning board’s disappointment over their exclusion from the Madak Keys Use Committee. Board members debated the letter’s language, focusing on conveying the importance of including a Planning Board member in the committee. There was a consensus on finalizing the letter with clear requests to increase the committee’s size from seven to nine members, explicitly reserving a position for a Planning Board appointee. The board aimed to present a united front, ready to support the letter once finalized.

A significant portion of the meeting also addressed the local school district’s enrollment trends. Superintendent Mark Smith and School Committee Chair Tomas Tolentino reported a notable increase in student enrollment, contrasting with a decline in 2020. This growth raised concerns about space limitations, particularly at Station Avenue. The district is developing a strategic plan for 2024 to 2029, focusing on improving school performance, graduation rates, and infrastructure planning. The topic of consolidation within schools was discussed, with potential traffic implications necessitating funding for a feasibility study.

The board also reviewed extensive materials included in the meeting packets, highlighting public engagement efforts at the Seaside Festival and future growth and economic development concerns. Attendees expressed interest in events and businesses catering to young adults, contributing to the shoulder seasons. The board emphasized the importance of collaboration with the Cape Cod Regional Airport to address relevant impacts and improve pedestrian and cyclist safety.

Additionally, the board discussed capital improvement projects and the management of funds allocated for them. Suggestions were made for enhanced accountability regarding capital funds and public-private partnerships to support infrastructure improvements. The conversation also touched on staffing challenges within the school district, particularly the affordability of housing for teachers. The district recently hired a speech pathologist and expressed interest in adding a position focused on English language learners.

The meeting concluded with committee updates, including a temporary waiver granted by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation to continue work on Route 28. The board highlighted upcoming milestones for early 2025, such as a groundbreaking event on Southshore Drive. Questions arose regarding the potential use of eminent domain adjacent to the Barefoot Trader property, though no definitive answers were provided.