The most notable topic of discussion was the ongoing waste management challenges that Chatham faces, particularly its function as an unofficial regional hub for garbage from surrounding towns. Concerns were raised about the strain this places on the town’s transfer station, which is already due for a $4 million renovation. This situation has led to speculation that Chatham has become a de facto regional transfer station without formal community approval.

The board deliberated on potential strategies to address these challenges, such as revising trash fees for commercial haulers to align with those of other towns, thereby incentivizing proper waste disposal practices. There was also discussion about requiring commercial haulers to certify that their loads do not include waste from outside Chatham, a measure supported by audits to ensure compliance. The board considered implementing a “pay as you throw” system to encourage waste reduction and recycling. However, concerns were expressed about the challenges of changing public habits and potential resistance from residents.

A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to a presentation by Carrie Purcell, the municipal assistance coordinator from the Cape Cod Cooperative Extension. Purcell provided insights into the solid waste crisis affecting Massachusetts, citing the dwindling number of waste-to-energy facilities and the limited capacity for waste disposal, which frequently necessitates out-of-state transport. She praised Chatham’s participation in innovative recycling programs, such as boat shrink wrap and holiday light recycling, and highlighted the importance of community-oriented approaches to waste management. Purcell also discussed the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection’s ambitious waste reduction goals for 2030 and 2050, emphasizing the lack of financial considerations in these plans.

In addition to solid waste management, the board addressed the classification of bedrooms within residential properties, a critical factor in estimating septic use and zoning compliance. The board debated the criteria for defining a bedroom, considering factors such as privacy and the presence of bathrooms. There was consensus that spaces over freestanding garages or outbuildings with heat and bathrooms could be classified as bedrooms if they offer privacy. The board acknowledged the potential for homeowners to manipulate definitions by making structural changes, which can complicate inspections and enforcement.

The board considered adopting more robust definitions to prevent the exploitation of loopholes by builders and ensure clarity during inspections. They referenced regulations from other towns, such as Hingham, which have established more defined criteria for bedroom classification. This could involve a framework that considers room counts and specific features to eliminate ambiguity and disputes over bedroom designations.

Further discussions highlighted the necessity for ongoing perimeter groundwater well testing around abandoned landfills to monitor hazardous materials and comply with EPA regulations. The board also explored strategies for achieving significant reductions in trash by 2030 and 2050, such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and building deconstruction to reuse materials. The importance of developing local and regional markets for items like mattresses, food scraps, glass, and textiles was emphasized to limit the shipment of waste to international markets.