A central topic was the land disposition agreement with Penrose for the housing project at Zero Meeting House Road. Town Council provided a detailed summary of the agreement, emphasizing the Affordable Housing Trust’s ownership of the property and the need for the board’s signature on certain provisions. The agreement set a purchase price of $500,000, with $300,000 payable in cash and a $200,000 loan from the Affordable Housing Trust. The development is slated to include eight residential structures with 42 rental apartments, 35 of which will be reserved for families earning at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI), with some units specifically for those at or below 30% AMI.

Key elements of the agreement focused on the town’s support for public financing, responsibilities for project expenses during the permitting process, and cooperation with the developer for offsite improvements. Notably, the agreement mandates solar panel installations and ensures current access for neighboring properties remains unobstructed during construction. A reversionary interest clause was included, requiring the developer to return the land if construction does not commence within a set timeframe.

Board members diligently questioned the details, particularly the 0% interest rate on the trust loan and potential impacts on neighboring properties, including an “orphan property” to the west. Clarifications were sought on the development’s implications for this property, which lacks current access and would require a Quiet Title action to establish ownership. The board also addressed concerns about potential tax title implications and the lack of clear legal language regarding easements and access rights.

Public input highlighted concerns about the development’s impact on access and the management of solar-generated electricity. Residents raised questions about tenant selection processes, specifically the lottery system’s background checks and eligibility criteria. These inquiries underscored the need for transparency and clear communication from the board and developer.

The board also engaged in discussions about the grinder pump policy, a matter of ongoing concern due to its impact on residents with low-pressure sewer requirements. The Director of Public Works outlined recommendations developed in consultation with advisory committees. These include providing one grinder pump per household and a $2,000 stipend to offset installation costs. The policy aims to address both new and existing installations.

Concerns were expressed about the policy’s retroactivity and the adequacy of the $2,000 compensation, given rising costs. The board acknowledged the need for further input from the Water and Sewer Advisory Committee, agreeing to defer the decision to incorporate additional feedback without delaying the timeline for the upcoming town meeting.

Budgetary matters were another focal point, with the board reviewing departmental budgets for fiscal year 2026. The Department of Natural Resources proposed a $2,387,675 budget. Significant discussions centered on the need for a new position within the Harbor Master division to address local challenges in securing marine mechanics.

The Community Development budget also caught attention, with a proposed increase to fund a new local inspector position required by changes in building codes affecting short-term rentals. The board debated the implications of raising the annual short-term rental registration fee from $50 to $150 to finance the position, noting the potential regressive impact on rental owners.

In economic development, the Chamber of Commerce sought $75,000 for visitor booth staffing and a $20,000 grant for marketing initiatives. The board explored the relationship between the Chamber and the Merchants Association, emphasizing transparency and strategic planning to support local businesses year-round.