During the Chatham Select Board meeting on May 28th, 2024, the board members demonstrated clear support for this program. Mr. Rob Brennan, President of the Massachusetts Housing and Climate Innovation Center, presented the initiative, outlining its goal to utilize the Cape Cod area as a “living laboratory” for innovative solutions in climate resilience and housing affordability. The program’s mission is to harness innovation to increase climate resilience, decarbonize, aim for net-zero emissions, and advance the affordable production and renovation of housing.

The board’s discussion centered around the implications and logistics of Chatham’s involvement in the program, including the necessity of a financial contribution and supplying a point of contact for the students. Participants in the program would have the opportunity to engage with town-owned properties and assets for their research, potentially identifying new ways to tackle the issues of climate change and housing. The program also promises to attract corporate sponsors and students, bringing additional attention and resources to the community.

Beyond the potential for innovative breakthroughs in environmental and housing strategies, the program offers Chatham the chance to position itself at the forefront of climate and housing solutions. The board explored various logistical elements such as funding, staff involvement, and the arrangement of host families for the students. They also requested clarity on the expected deliverables from the program and the extent of involvement from corporate sponsors and local builders.

Another major talking point at the meeting was the planning for the 2024 October Fest. Kristen Mueller of the Chatham Chamber of Commerce requested the use of town properties for the event, including an expanded use of the Town Hall parking lot. Notably, the board raised concerns about the proposed start time for alcohol sales, debating whether it should be pushed back from 11 a.m. to noon. Mueller underscored the financial impact such a change could have on vendors.

The discussion further addressed the coordination of parking and shuttle bus services, emphasizing the importance of safety and efficiency for the upcoming event. The board also touched on the matter of outdoor sales of goods, clarifying that such activities would take place only in the adjacent parking lot and not in Kate Gold Park.

After extensive deliberation on these logistical and safety considerations, the board reached a consensus. They approved the use of town property, issuance of special one-day alcohol licenses, entertainment licenses, and permitted outdoor sales of goods for October Fest. The event’s timing was set from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m..