A primary focus of the meeting was the ongoing issue of unregistered short-term rental properties in Chatham. A detailed report highlighted that 48 properties remained unregistered, having been identified through real estate listings. The Board deliberated on the necessity of sending final notice letters to these property owners, which would stipulate a clear registration deadline and require appearances before the Board for non-compliance. This measure aims to ensure that property owners understand the seriousness of the regulations and the potential penalties for disregarding them. Concerns were raised that some property owners might choose to pay the penalties, which are currently $300 annually, rather than comply with registration requirements. Therefore, the Board considered the implementation of a penalty structure that would escalate for continued non-compliance, potentially involving daily administrative penalties.

The Board also discussed the possible revocation of short-term rental registrations as a penalty for ongoing violations. However, there was uncertainty regarding the specific measures available to enforce such actions, including whether law enforcement could assist in evicting tenants from unregistered properties.

Another discussion revolved around the potential collaboration with rental platforms like Airbnb to address illegal listings. Skepticism was expressed about the effectiveness of such outreach, with members noting that platforms might not take responsibility for unregistered listings, allowing illegal rentals to persist. This challenge underscores the complexities of regulating online rental platforms and the need for innovative solutions to ensure compliance.

Shifting focus, the Board addressed waste management practices, particularly concerning the disposal of trash at the Chatham transfer station. An amendment was proposed requiring garbage truck drivers to exit their vehicles and sign a form attesting that the trash originated solely from Chatham. Although logistical concerns were raised about the practicality of this requirement during peak operational periods, future renovations at the transfer station are expected to mitigate potential delays.

Additionally, the Board explored the possibility of increasing commercial waste hauler fees to align with neighboring towns. The current fee disparity creates an incentive for haulers to dispose of waste in Chatham, necessitating a reevaluation to prevent such practices. The Board recognized the need for strengthened oversight through amendments to the haulers’ registration form.

The meeting also touched on residential definitions, specifically the classification of rooms and bedrooms in properties served by septic systems. A notable discussion focused on accurately counting bedrooms in open-concept homes, where large open areas might be counted as single rooms, potentially affecting septic system regulations. The Board acknowledged successful approaches from other towns, such as Nantucket, which employ square footage criteria for room classification. This consideration may serve as a model for future regulatory adjustments in Chatham.

In addition to regulatory discussions, the Board addressed concerns about Chatham’s water management strategy amidst a mild drought declared for Cape Cod. Members expressed apprehension that raising water prices as a conservation measure could disproportionately affect lower-income residents. The Board plans to revisit this issue in future meetings to explore alternative strategies for ensuring an adequate water supply for the community, especially during peak summer months when demand increases.