The proposed budget for the Department of Community Development for Fiscal Year 2026 was a key focus, amounting to $1,137,615. This rise was primarily attributed to the introduction of a full-time local inspector position designated to handle the inspections required under the new state building code, effective since October 2024. The new role is projected to cost $105,000 annually, encompassing a starting salary of $75,500 and estimated benefits of $30,000. The necessity of this position was underscored by the need to conduct up to 30 inspections per week, targeting approximately 900 registered short-term rentals in Chatham.

Committee members voiced concerns about the budget increase, especially with inflation rates lower than the proposed hike. They sought further justification for the new role’s responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of compliance with the updated building codes, which mandate safety features such as smoke detectors in rental properties. An exploration of potential cost-sharing arrangements with neighboring towns for the inspector position was suggested, though it had not yet been pursued.

The conversation also covered the possibility of increasing the annual short-term rental registration fee, currently set at $50, as a funding source for the new inspector position. The last fee increase occurred in 2008, and the department is planning to propose additional fee hikes to the select board, with the aim of implementation by July 1. The committee underscored the need for detailed data on revenues generated from short-term rentals to fully assess the financial viability of hiring additional inspectors.

Further discourse centered on how to handle deficiencies found during inspections and whether issuing “stop renting” orders would be necessary. This raised questions about the town’s liability in such cases and led to discussions on potentially developing a structured process and charging an inspection fee to offset costs.

Transitioning to the Natural Resources Department, the committee reviewed a proposed operating budget of $2,387,675 for Fiscal Year 2026, reflecting a $63,000 increase. The budget encompasses several divisions, with notable capital requests including $50,000 for stormwater management and $100,000 for coastal flooding feasibility assessments. These requests highlight the department’s focus on addressing environmental challenges and infrastructure needs.

A significant portion of the discussion revolved around the Harbormaster division, where a new boat operator and marine mechanic position was proposed. This role aims to enhance operational efficiency and cut costs related to marine repairs. Currently, these repairs are outsourced to local mechanics, costing between $135 to $190 per hour. By having an in-house marine mechanic, the department anticipates reducing repair times and saving approximately $30,000 annually. The proposed salary for this position is $69,000, not including benefits, and committee members debated whether this would attract qualified candidates.

The Health division also saw a budget increase to support water quality programs. The committee discussed ongoing projects under the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), which aims to restore wetlands and prevent stormwater flooding. These projects, funded up to 75% for construction, rely on secure additional funding from the NRCS.

The committee engaged in a broader discourse on water rates. This conversation was motivated by a decline in revenue, prompting a collaboration with Waterworth to establish new rates covering operating expenses and debt service. The committee expressed intent to recommend rate adjustments to the select board, emphasizing the importance of financial sustainability.

The meeting also touched on recruitment challenges within the police department, with the idea of a $2,500 recruitment bonus discussed as a potential solution to staffing gaps. The committee acknowledged the need for a comprehensive strategy addressing recruitment across all departments, rather than isolating public safety.

Lastly, the committee reviewed ongoing infrastructure projects, including the Crawl Road intersection and Council on Aging building. The slow progress of the Crawl Road project prompted discussions on seeking support from local state representatives to advocate for community concerns. The committee concluded with a consensus to prioritize addressing departmental vacancies and ensure a thorough understanding of financial implications before making formal recommendations.