Central to the board’s agenda was the fiscal year 2026 capital spending plan, which proposed an increase in capital expenditures to $29.8 million. This rise was attributed to major projects aimed at enhancing public safety and infrastructure. The capital plan relies heavily on free cash, with approximately $15.9 million allocated from this source. Notably, the plan includes a short-term borrowing proposal of $4.7 million for the design of a new police station, a key initiative supported by the police facility advisory committee. The anticipated construction costs for this facility could exceed $55 million. Additionally, the board discussed the strategic coordination of water main replacements with sewer force main installations on Brickill Road, intended to minimize disruptions.

The capital improvement plan also earmarks $3.2 million for the remediation of the baseball fields at Trotting Park, an unexpected expense this fiscal year. Other allocations include $1.4 million for library repairs, $1.8 million for road maintenance and sidewalk construction, and the replacement of a fire engine and ambulance. The ambulance replacement is necessary due to high mileage on the current vehicle. Furthermore, a proposal for $1.34 million was made for wastewater outfall permitting and environmental impact reports, alongside a feasibility study for the Morris Pond School site costing $150,000.

The board also addressed a topic: the Upper Cape Regional Transfer Station Intermunicipal Agreement (IMA). The board approved a request to extend the agreement to June 30, 2043. Bourne’s request to opt out of the agreement was noted, given its own intermunicipal operations.

Public health and safety were also key discussion points. The Select Board reviewed the ongoing water quality monitoring program for Falmouth’s beaches, which is mandated by state regulations. The town’s health agent reported no beach closures this season, crediting favorable environmental conditions and effective monitoring practices. Concerns about vibrio bacteria and West Nile virus prompted a discussion about ongoing health monitoring efforts.

Bicycle and pedestrian safety emerged as another focal area, with the board hearing from the chair of the bicycle and pedestrian committee. The committee has identified six dangerous road segments requiring attention, given Falmouth’s higher rate of bicycle and pedestrian accidents compared to other Cape Cod towns. Proposed infrastructure improvements include the establishment of an east-west multi-use path to enhance connectivity and safety for residents.

The board also explored the potential for waiving application and permit fees for affordable housing projects, specifically for a proposal from Cape Cod Habitat for Humanity. The waiver was approved for 18 affordable housing units, excluding water service and meter fees.

Conversations regarding the town’s recycling and solid waste collection contract with NASA Disposal surfaced as well. The board considered issuing a Request for Proposals or Qualifications to potentially enhance waste management services. The proposal to transition ownership of recycling and solid waste carts to the contractor was discussed.

Lastly, the meeting addressed the short-term rental committee’s efforts to refine existing bylaws, drawing insights from Provincetown’s program. The board also considered future agenda items, including improvements to the town’s website and FCTV’s access to the fiber network to support hybrid meetings.