One notable topics of the meeting was the public hearing and subsequent approval of a special permit for the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution’s (WHOI) waterfront access project. This large-scale initiative involves replacing the existing waterfront dock and constructing a new waterfront building on Water Street, Great Harbor. The project is critical for WHOI’s research operations and includes dredging and filling activities to enhance infrastructure resilience to environmental changes such as sea level rise.

The board members and stakeholders engaged in discussions about the environmental implications of the project and the permitting process, which involved approvals from various governmental levels, including the US Army Corps of Engineers and the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act. The project garnered support due to its comprehensive planning to minimize environmental impact, with the use of silt containment devices and strategic timing to protect local marine life. Emphasis was placed on the project’s adaptability to future environmental changes, with plans to raise the dock in stages to accommodate potential sea level rise over an 80-year lifespan.

In addition to the WHOI project, the board discussed community concerns regarding traffic congestion and safety in Woods Hole, exacerbated by the ongoing construction of the Steamship Authority terminal. Residents voiced their frustrations about chaotic and unsafe conditions for pedestrians, particularly children attending local schools. The board addressed measures taken by the public works director and a traffic consultant, such as relocating Jersey barriers and hiring police details funded by a citizen group, to mitigate traffic issues. Despite these efforts, the community continued to experience challenges, prompting further dialogue with the Steamship Authority’s executive director regarding additional actions.

The meeting also included a proposal to extend the Shining Sea Bike Way by removing the Falmouth secondary rail line, presented by resident Michael Fineold. He argued that the extension would enhance safety and tourism, with potential federal funding available if the rail line were removed. The board acknowledged the proposal and the possibility of securing $25 million in federal funding contingent on the project’s advancement.

In the realm of affordable housing, the board discussed the development of Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for town-owned parcels designated for affordable housing. The conversation highlighted the importance of pursuing additional parcels for both rental and home ownership units to address regional housing shortages. The board expressed confidence in the town manager’s office to engage in ongoing discussions with neighboring municipalities regarding potential housing developments.

The meeting also featured a report from the Solid Waste Advisory Committee, which emphasized improvements in the town’s waste management program, including a 5% reduction in curbside trash tonnage since 2018. The committee highlighted upcoming recycling events, such as a styrofoam and latex paint collection, and advocated for enhanced community engagement to increase participation in waste management initiatives. Concerns were raised about communication gaps, with calls to improve outreach through the town’s “Notify Me” system and other strategies to ensure all residents are informed.

Finally, the board turned its attention to the Falmouth Country Club lease arrangement, discussing options for future operators. The assistant town manager outlined policy goals for the lease, emphasizing the need for a quality operator to provide customer service and generate revenue to cover town debt and fund capital improvements. The board debated revenue share structures and base rent options, ultimately deciding on a model that balances financial viability for both the town and potential operators.