The meeting saw a discussion on the town’s solar projects. A member requested an update on current solar energy projects, emphasizing details like the names, locations, megawatt capacities, and operational statuses. The planning department plans to provide a report at the next meeting. This is in light of a previous calculation suggesting Westport had permitted enough solar capacity to meet 150% of the town’s energy needs. The member’s interest underscored the town’s potential to exceed its energy requirements through renewable sources, a point that was well-received by attendees who are keen on sustainability.

Following the solar discussions, the board moved to the high school redevelopment project. This topic drew attention as the community deliberates on the future of the building, which is currently partially occupied by a daycare. The April 10th community meeting on this matter had around 100 attendees, revealing strong local interest. The consensus among participants was a preference for transforming the high school into a multi-use community center. This center would ideally cater to a wide range of residents, from children to seniors, while avoiding external retail businesses to focus on local needs.

RGB Architects is developing cost models for various options to guide upcoming community discussions. The board heard concerns about the financial implications of retrofitting the high school, with renovation estimates ranging from $30 million to $40 million. This cost has been a contentious issue, and the community remains divided on whether municipal offices should relocate to the refurbished building. The potential relocation of municipal offices raised concerns about the impact on the town center and operational costs of maintaining empty buildings.

The meeting also explored the possibility of converting classroom spaces into housing units. A proposal was floated to create single-occupancy units, leveraging partnerships with not-for-profit developers who could secure grants and utilize tax increment financing. This approach could alleviate financial burdens on the town while addressing housing needs. The conversation highlighted the necessity for a plan for the building’s future, beyond just housing, considering other potential uses.

Additionally, the board reviewed grant applications aimed at enhancing community resilience and infrastructure. One application sought $119,000 to fund climate resilience planning, while another requested $28,000 for stormwater and flood resilience improvements. An update on a $69,000 grant from the Buzzards Bay National Estuary Program for engineered culvert designs was also shared, along with a $91,000 application for a long-range plan for the Route Six corridor, addressing stormwater, transportation, zoning, and recreational opportunities.

The meeting’s procedural matters included a discussion on approving previous meeting minutes, with a minor typo corrected. A more issue arose regarding a minor modification to a previously approved site plan that had not been added to the agenda. This oversight was causing project delays, prompting the board to schedule a work session to address it promptly while adhering to open meeting laws.