A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to the fiscal year 2025 tax classification hearing, where Ardell Kelly presented options for setting the local property tax rate. Kelly outlined the property value changes, noting a 10.7% decrease compared to the previous year, and proposed a tentative tax rate of $3.47. The board deliberated on whether to adopt a residential factor of one, maintaining a uniform tax rate across all property classes, or to implement a residential exemption aimed at reducing taxes for year-round residents by up to 50%. The board of assessors unanimously recommended against the residential exemption, expressing concerns that it would unfairly benefit landlords rather than small business owners.

The tax discussion also introduced the concept of a break-even point set at $3.75 million, affecting approximately 155 properties within the Chatham zip code. The debate included the effectiveness of the small commercial exemption, which allows for a 10% exemption on properties assessed under a million dollars, though its benefit to small business owners was questioned. The Select Board members engaged in a thorough exchange, considering the implications for personal property taxes and the changing ratio of seasonal to year-round residents, currently estimated at 58% seasonal and 42% year-round. Ultimately, the board postponed a final decision on the tax classification, opting for further review.

Traffic safety was another major topic, with residents voicing concerns about speeding and safety on Cross Street. One resident highlighted the street’s use as a shortcut, contributing to excessive speeds and endangering pedestrians. The resident proposed lowering the speed limit and installing radar speed signs, similar to those on Sam Ryder Road. Another resident supported these suggestions, recounting a personal near-miss incident and advocating for additional speed limit signs and a reduced speed limit of 15 to 20 miles per hour.

In response, a Select Board member acknowledged the busy nature of Cross Street and supported the residents’ recommendations. The Deputy Chief of Police mentioned that the department had acquired portable digital readout signs for traffic monitoring, with one currently placed on Cross Street. The board discussed the process for reducing the speed limit, which would involve a vote and possibly a public hearing. While speed bumps were considered, several members preferred alternative measures, citing that speed bumps can be problematic for various road users.

The board also addressed a no-parking zone proposal on Shatak Place. Residents expressed concerns that the proposal would shift parking congestion rather than solve the problem. After gathering feedback, the board decided to postpone action, emphasizing the need for comprehensive input from all affected residents. The traffic committee had initially proposed the no-parking zone due to complaints from a resident unable to exit their driveway because of parked vehicles related to a nearby construction site.

The meeting also covered the installation of new traffic safety signs. Joan Craig, chair of the Traffic Safety Committee, presented proposals for speed advisory signs on Barn Hill Road and stop signs at the intersection of Cedar Street and Battlefield Road. These measures were intended to address increased traffic and visibility issues. The board approved the proposals, recognizing the necessity of enhancing safety at these locations.

Another topic of discussion was the public electric vehicle (EV) charging station policy. Terry Whan and the chairman of the Energy and Climate Action Committee (ECAC) presented a revised draft policy, highlighting the need for a comprehensive fee and location policy for future charging stations. Board members raised concerns about the absence of specific regulations regarding placement and enforcement. The initial policy aimed to facilitate the activation of charging stations at the Eldridge garage, but members called for additional deliberation and more detailed information on fee structures and enforcement measures.

The board moved on to accept several donations, including a memorial bench at the Old Mill Boatyard and six Green Giant arborvitae trees at Veterans Field. These donations were unanimously approved.

Finally, the board entered an executive session to discuss litigation strategy concerning a property on Mill Road, citing that an open meeting could adversely affect the public body’s litigation position.