The board unanimously approved a preliminary subdivision plan for the property on CW Road East Southeast LLC. The plan involves dividing an existing lot into three separate parcels, contingent upon acquiring an additional 27 feet of frontage from a neighboring property, the Drama Guild. The board members noted the absence of detailed drainage information. Sewer connectivity was deemed sufficient to address public health concerns regarding sewage disposal, with the number of bedrooms per lot determined by lot size and sewer regulations. The board concluded that a 16,000 square-foot lot would typically permit three bedrooms, pending sewer department consent for additional capacity.

This assessment, conducted in collaboration with neighboring towns, aimed to outline community health profiles, identify key needs, and guide strategic planning. The evaluation incorporated both quantitative and qualitative data collection, involving stakeholder interviews, focus groups, and surveys. A total of 384 responses were gathered, with a portion originating from Brewster, attributed to effective outreach. The demographic analysis revealed that Chatham’s predominantly white and older population has a median age of 64.

Board members exchanged insights on the challenges of attaining a broad survey response, particularly compared to Brewster. The survey highlighted the necessity of identifying trusted community partners to alleviate disparities among towns. The discussion illuminated areas requiring further collaboration, particularly regarding the specific health needs of Chatham and its surroundings.

The conversation pivoted to the broader social determinants impacting Chatham’s residents, with attention to social isolation and aging as prominent concerns. Contributing factors such as climate change, mobility issues, and financial instability were highlighted. The recent escalation in housing costs from $800,000 in 2019 to over $1 million by 2023 was identified as exacerbating the housing crisis, affecting local workforce availability, including essential services like police and fire personnel.

Healthcare access emerged as a critical area of concern, with a notable shortage of providers. The ratio of one OBGYN per 6,000 residents contrasted sharply with the state average, as did the shortage of primary care providers and dentists. Substance use and mental health stigmas were noted as barriers to addressing these issues effectively, with limited educational resources compounding the problem.

Community strengths were recognized, including effective governance and low tax rates. The community survey identified top health concerns as the lack of primary care services, inadequate healthcare for the elderly, and insufficient adult health services. Mental health and substance use concerns were prevalent, with a portion of respondents reporting unmet needs. A recent hiring of a full-time adult mental health clinician and a recovery coach, funded by opioid recovery resources, aims to address these needs over the next 16 years with over $300,000 allocated for these initiatives.

Public comments from local agencies such as the Council on Aging praised the comprehensive nature of the report but highlighted the impact of federal poverty guidelines on service access. Transportation services facilitated by the Council on Aging were acknowledged as vital, with drivers accommodating residents’ needs for medical appointments and essential errands.