Central to the meeting was the board’s concern over the proposed parking reduction for the Penrose project, which seeks to provide 60 parking spaces instead of the 84 mandated by zoning bylaws for the 48-unit development. Board members expressed apprehension that the reduced parking would be insufficient, potentially forcing residents to park on Meeting House Road or in other nearby areas, which could lead to traffic and safety issues. The board called for a rationale from the applicant, comparing it to similar developments to determine a suitable number of spaces. While there was consensus that 84 might be excessive, many felt 60 was inadequate.

Pedestrian access was another significant topic, with the current plan lacking a connection to the off-street sidewalk to the south of the property. The board recommended extending the sidewalk along the eastern edge of the Penrose property and emphasized the need for a minimum width of five feet to accommodate pedestrian traffic. Additionally, a bike path connection was suggested to reduce interaction between cyclists and pedestrians. Board members agreed on the necessity of these improvements, recognizing their importance in ensuring safe and convenient access for future residents.

Concerns were also raised regarding building compatibility with surrounding structures, including lighting and signage. The board discussed maintaining a height limit of 30 feet to align with local building standards, though some members considered flexibility in height limits due to the area’s topography. The discussion touched on potential visual impacts on neighboring properties, with suggestions to reposition taller units away from abutting properties. Ensuring adequate screening through landscaping and fencing was emphasized to mitigate these impacts.

In addition to these topics, the meeting addressed stormwater management, with the board reiterating the importance of adherence to state stormwater regulations. It was noted that the development would be served by town water and sewer, leaving little room for discussion on these utilities. However, the adequacy and arrangement of landscaping, particularly regarding visual and noise buffers between the development and adjoining properties, was a point of debate. Enhancements to the buffer along the northern property line were suggested to mitigate unintended impacts on neighboring properties.

The potential inclusion of a bus stop within the site for the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority was proposed, acknowledging the benefits of encouraging public transportation use. However, the tight site layout posed challenges for such an installation. The board suggested exploring partnerships with community organizations to facilitate transportation for residents, emphasizing the potential advantages of a dedicated bus stop.

Concerns about the project’s aesthetic compatibility with the surrounding area were also discussed. Observations of similar projects in Orleans highlighted the need for electric vehicle charging infrastructure, which was not guaranteed in the Chatham project. The idea of using synthetic siding resembling cedar shingles was proposed to blend the new structures into the existing architectural style, minimizing the visual impact with appropriate color choices.

Safety concerns, particularly regarding the entrance to the project opposite a church across a ravine, were highlighted. The proposed design included a split rail guardrail, but there were questions about its specifications and whether it would be adequately reinforced to prevent accidents. The board stressed the importance of proper safety measures to protect residents, particularly children, from the ravine’s dangers.