47:35The most pressing topic was the citizen petition concerning Jill James, a low-income resident and the last Wampanoag Native American resident of Chatham. The petition, initiated by a concerned resident, sought tax relief for Ms. James, who has struggled with property tax payments due to financial hardship. The discussion revealed that Ms. James’s property on Cedar Street has been in tax title since 2011, with interest accruing at 16% per Massachusetts law. Despite her efforts to make regular payments, her tax obligations continue to mount, threatening her financial stability.

The petitioner emphasized the broader implications of tax titles in Chatham, noting that 21 properties were currently under tax title, with total liabilities less than $600,000. They suggested redirecting a portion of the town’s free cash surplus to assist residents like Ms. James in paying off their tax debts. However, the town’s legal counsel expressed concerns about the legality of the petition under state law, which restricts the use of public funds for private benefit unless there is a substantial public benefit involved. The counsel stated that paying someone’s property taxes would not be permissible, citing constitutional limitations.

The board members, while empathetic to Ms. James’s situation, were constrained by the legal advice. One member suggested that the petitioner return with an actionable proposal at the next meeting. The dialogue highlighted a tension between the desire to support residents in financial distress and the need to adhere to legal procedures.

1:48:30The second significant issue was the proposal to reduce speed limits in thickly settled areas from 30 miles per hour to 25 miles per hour. A resident presented a petition supporting the reduction, citing safety concerns and the presence of young children in the area. The proposal sparked debate among board members and residents, with some expressing skepticism about its effectiveness. Concerns were raised about specific streets where speeding was more pronounced, and the installation of dynamic electronic speed signs was suggested as a deterrent.

2:07:53During the discussion, it was clarified that adopting Chapter 90, Section 17C, would automatically classify thickly settled roads at the new speed limit, with no option to revert without further action. The board acknowledged the need for further exploration of community sentiment and the potential impact on local businesses and residents. Feedback from tradespeople and residents was deemed valuable in informing the decision-making process.

1:48:30Beyond these main issues, the board also addressed several other topics. There was a proposal to amend the bylaw prohibiting finance committee members from serving on other boards, aimed at allowing them to share their expertise on non-standing committees. The proposal resulted in a tie vote, leading to a non-recommendation of the article.

Another discussion focused on a home rule petition to allow associate members of the Conservation Commission to vote when a quorum cannot be established. This proposal sought to improve the efficiency of the commission and encourage participation. Support was expressed for the measure, recognizing it as a necessity born out of challenges faced by the commission.

2:26:50The board also addressed the allocation of funds from the attainable housing special revenue account, derived from a 1% short-term rental tax. The funds were to be used on town-owned properties, but concerns were raised about granting the board broad authority to spend without specific projects presented. Emphasis was placed on the importance of presenting detailed projects at town meetings to secure voter support.

1:08:19Traffic safety was another topic of interest, with a proposal to allocate $60,000 for speed limit advisory signs in response to community concerns about speeding. The board agreed to move this item forward for discussion at the next meeting.

Finally, the meeting included announcements about the upcoming Independence Day parade and the introduction of its theme, “The Seasons of Chatham,” celebrating the community’s diverse activities throughout the year. The board also held a public hearing regarding an NSTAR Electric Company petition to install conduit under Shore Road, inviting community input on the utility project.