The most notable topic of the meeting was the proposed increase in the short-term rental registration fee from $50 to $200. Representatives from community development had presented this proposal to the select board, which recommended the increase to streamline the registration process. While the board of health held the prior fee at $50, the change would not take effect until the next registration year. The select board had considered a staggered implementation but ultimately decided against it after comparing fees with those in neighboring towns. This increase, though substantial, was deemed reasonable given the income potential from short-term rentals.

The board deliberated on the implications of the fee increase, acknowledging that it would reduce administrative burdens and provide clarity in the registration process. The registration period was also redefined to align with the calendar year, moving from January 1st to December 31st, to eliminate confusion around the previous February 28th deadline. It was decided that the select board would set the fee to avoid frequent public hearings solely for fee adjustments. A public hearing was scheduled for June to finalize these changes, allowing for community input and further analysis.

In tandem with the fee discussion, revisions to short-term rental regulations were considered. These revisions emphasized the requirement for property owners to submit a registration application prior to operating as a short-term rental. This regulatory update aims to improve compliance and oversight of the approximately 700 registered short-term rentals in Chatham, with an additional 200 pending registration. The board also entertained the idea of capping the number of rentals, but it was noted that such decisions would require broader municipal discussions beyond the board’s jurisdiction.

The meeting then shifted focus to discuss proposed changes to the regulations governing the town’s solid waste disposal facility. The board considered the introduction of mandatory recycling requirements for all waste generators, including both residential and commercial entities, in compliance with Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection mandates. Public receptacles would be exempt, but all other waste must adhere to recycling requirements. The town committed to annual notifications to waste generators about these mandates.

Further revisions included requirements for commercial refuse collectors to confirm that waste collected within Chatham is disposed of at the local transfer station. A new provision was added, allowing for waiver requests from these regulations under circumstances of demonstrated hardship or municipal benefit. Enforcement measures were also strengthened, with violators facing suspension of access to the facility, pending a new sticker application. Commercial haulers found in violation could have their permits suspended pending a hearing.

The board concluded the public hearing on these waste disposal changes without any audience participation and proceeded to vote unanimously in favor of the proposed revisions. Discussions also touched upon the regulation of leaf blowers in relation to noise ordinances.

Additionally, concern was expressed about the unfilled inspector position in the budget and the state’s response to a tragic incident involving a short-term rental fire. Board members discussed the potential to combine inspections related to health and fire safety, though it was uncertain if existing regulations would allow for this integration.