A key topic was the debate over a transfer station affidavit affecting local waste haulers. The affidavit aimed to restrict the acceptance of trash from outside Chatham, raising concerns among local businesses like Millie Trucking. Representatives argued that such restrictions could harm their operations by limiting their ability to serve clients outside Chatham, including the Monomoy Regional School District. The potential economic impact was highlighted, with representatives noting that pricing could become unsustainable if they had to divert Harwich-based trash elsewhere.

The board considered proposals to limit the transfer station’s usage to local haulers, emphasizing the importance of supporting community businesses. A suggestion was made to include a waiver for Millie Trucking to continue servicing the Monomoy Regional School District. With only 5% of accepted waste coming from outside Chatham, mainly from the school district, the board deliberated on a conditional permit system and sought the Board of Health’s input to revise regulations.

The board also addressed odor complaints linked to the transfer station, questioning the source and scope of the problem. Members discussed the feasibility of enforcing the affidavit and proposed pausing current regulations until a clearer path could be established. A motion was made to request town staff develop a conditional permitting process while engaging the Board of Health to explore revisions that accommodate local haulers.

In another significant agenda item, the board held a public hearing on the establishment of permanent easements for installing and maintaining sewer mains on private roads. Director of Public Works Rob Philly explained the necessity of these easements for public utilities, in compliance with Massachusetts laws. With many roads in Chatham privately owned, easements would allow for infrastructure installation without transferring road ownership to the town.

The hearing involved affected residents, with concerns raised about the easement width and its impact on property frontage. Philly clarified that while easements might cover property frontages, they would not necessarily affect physical properties. He assured residents that plans could be reviewed electronically or at the department. The board emphasized the importance of public involvement in the decision-making process.

The meeting also touched on the Cape Cod Canal Bridge Replacement Project, following a presentation by resident Steven Buckley. Buckley critiqued the environmental impact statements associated with the project, arguing that the consultants’ conclusions on traffic impacts were unconvincing. He highlighted the importance of considering long-term socioeconomic effects and the potential for increased traffic due to wider bridge lanes. The board echoed concerns about balancing infrastructure improvements with maintaining Chatham’s character and managing demographic changes.

Additionally, the board addressed the temporary closure of Uncle Tony’s LLC, amending the dates to accommodate a revised contractor schedule. The board also ratified the town manager’s appointment of Tom Barr as the tree warden, acknowledging his recent certification and the need for continuity after Dan Tobin’s retirement.

The town manager’s report provided updates on holiday schedules, upcoming town meetings, and personnel changes, including promotions and retirements. The board scrutinized financial data in preparation for budget discussions.