The meeting’s central topic was the presentation and subsequent adoption of the housing production plan, a comprehensive roadmap designed to address Chatham’s local housing needs. Consultants from JM Goldson outlined the necessity of this update, required every five years under Massachusetts law, and detailed the plan’s components, which include strategies for both affordable and market-rate housing. The plan aims to meet the Chapter 40B mandate that 10% of year-round housing stock be deed-restricted for lower-income households. The current inventory stands at 4.8%, and the plan sets a clear action path to reach the mandated goal.

Laura, a senior community planner from JM Goldson, emphasized the community’s strong engagement in the housing assessment process, with about 655 individual participation points recorded. Key findings highlighted the significant portion of single-family homes, many designated for seasonal use, and the median sale price for these homes around $1.3 million. The rental market’s instability was also noted, with two-bedroom properties estimated at about $2,200 monthly. Laura pointed out the critical shortage of affordable housing for middle-income residents and the necessity for more diverse housing types. The plan’s benefits include better resource allocation guidance and a clear delineation of responsibilities among stakeholders.

Following the presentation, the board discussed strategies to address the housing crisis, particularly the mismatch between the current housing stock and community needs. Objectives were outlined to create new housing options, conserve existing stock, and convert current year-round housing into “Missing Middle” housing types. Strategies included planning policies or zoning changes, local initiatives, and capacity coordination and education. There was an emphasis on allowing multifamily housing in specific districts and creating design guidelines and standards to facilitate acceptable increased housing densities.

The planning board’s initiatives regarding zoning changes and potential for increased housing density were also discussed. The board is considering actionable areas for development, particularly around the West Chatham Neighborhood Center, where transition zones or buffer zones could promote multifamily housing development. The concept of a Chatham pattern book was revisited to create a framework acceptable to the community, leveraging existing design guidelines and form-based codes.

During the meeting, specific attention was given to the proposed rezoning of Route 28 from commercial to residential, aimed at creating neighborhood centers with higher density and affordable multifamily housing. The utility of form-based zoning was highlighted as a significant tool for community acceptance of increased density. Multifamily housing proposals were discussed cautiously, with a preference for areas with sewer system access and a suggestion to soften language around zoning changes to avoid immediate community pushback.

The board also reviewed the modification of a site plan approval for a project on Middle Road. The modifications included the removal of a proposed masonry wall around a battery energy storage system and the elimination of striped parking spaces on a secure paved access drive. Concerns were raised about ensuring compliance with the original planting plans, leading to a motion to accept the amended site plan with an understanding that additional documentation regarding plantings would be addressed in a future meeting.

Another discussion focused on a proposed driveway project introduced by property owner Joe Jalo. The project faced objections due to its location in a conservation area and potential impact on a historical pathway. Concerns were raised about the driveway’s impermeable materials and the need for an archaeological survey before construction. The board’s recommendation to the zoning board of appeals included conditions for using permeable materials and conducting an archaeological survey.

The meeting also covered discussions on sewer installation projected between 2026 and 2028. Concerns were raised about the impact on the existing tree canopy and the need for road stabilization following sewer installation. The historical context of the lot’s approval process was acknowledged, and the board emphasized engaging with the community to develop alternative plans that address both applicant and abutter concerns.