The foremost issue at the meeting was the density of the proposed Penrose project. The developers initially proposed 60 units but revised this to 48 to balance open space and maintain a sense of community. However, some board members and community participants questioned whether the development could be scaled down to 42 units. The developers insisted that reducing the unit count would render the project economically unfeasible, as the financial viability hinges on maintaining the proposed number of units to support full-time management and amenities. They emphasized that the operating costs are consistent regardless of the number of units, making the current proposal essential for sustaining quality management and services.

A critical aspect of the discussion was the 40B regulatory framework, which allows for increased density to meet affordable housing needs. The board considered the economic implications of reducing density, with an attorney explaining that such conditions are assessed based on their economic impact. If the board were inclined to impose a density condition, the developers would need to demonstrate that this would make the project economically unviable.

The board also engaged in discussions on the design elements of the development, with attention given to landscaping and aesthetic integration into the community. The developers committed to preserving mature trees and incorporating a robust landscaping plan to improve the visual appeal and maintain privacy for neighboring properties. Additional discussions revolved around ensuring adequate visual screening through the strategic placement of evergreen trees and the preservation of existing vegetation along the property borders.

Some residents expressed concerns over the lack of pedestrian infrastructure and the density’s potential impact on traffic and parking. Others emphasized the need for affordable housing, highlighting the struggles of long-time residents to find affordable living options in Chatham. The developers responded to these concerns by pledging to incorporate community feedback into their plans, including adjustments to the parking layout and the addition of a crosswalk.

The meeting also touched on other logistical elements of the development, such as signage, lighting, and waste management, with the developers expressing a willingness to explore alternative options that align with Chatham’s architectural character. Discussions included potential enhancements such as solar panel installations to offset utility costs for residents and the inclusion of community amenities like gas grills to foster interaction among residents.

The board acknowledged the need for thorough information on the financial implications of any proposed changes to the density before making a decision. To this end, the hearing was continued to allow Penrose to prepare a detailed response regarding the economic impact of any adjustments to the unit count.