At the forefront of the meeting was a significant proposal to repair the deteriorating siding and trim at the Monomoy Regional Middle School. The estimated cost of the project stood at $25 million, a figure that sparked board discussions on financial impact and the need for transparency. The board was apprised that the school committee would vote on a $2.5 million debt authorization for the project, with the board having 60 days to disapprove. The debt would be reflected in the town’s assessment based on foundational enrollment percentages. Although the select board’s approval was not a necessity, they were urged to hold a town meeting vote to maintain transparency. The board scrutinized various aspects of the project, including its timeline, disruptions to school operations, and the expected durability of the repairs.

During the meeting, public comments brought to light concerns over budget presentations. Ms. Gibbs, a member of the community, pointed out the absence of a total in the cover letter for the budget and the lack of a clear breakdown of costs. She also stressed the need for a five-year projection to show the impact of appropriated funds and potential property valuation increases. Additionally, she raised questions about missing details on affordable housing and water and sewer projections, noting the potential burden on taxpayers. The board acknowledged these issues, agreeing on the necessity for additional information and clearer financial projections.

Another topic was the potential establishment of a Town of Chatham adult supportive day program. The board debated the program’s funding, weighing the importance of a contingent grant. Members voiced concerns over financial implications and the addition of positions to the town staff.

The board also addressed the FY 2024 budget adjustment transfers and a collective bargaining agreement for the period of July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2027. Both items were motioned for placement on the warrant after brief discussions. Additionally, the wording of the article related to the adult day program led to concerns about misinterpretation among town residents regarding the town’s financial responsibility and the annual assessment.

Further deliberations included a $273,600 allocation for an unnamed program. The board grappled with the urgency of committing to the funding and the program’s feasibility by its proposed start date of July 1. Ultimately, the board voted in favor of placing and recommending the allocation. The potential acquisition of property on Pleasant Street was also addressed, with the board opting to place a placeholder on the warrant pending additional information.

The Select Board discussed a citizen’s petition for a year-round housing occupancy restriction act, aimed at establishing a program for year-round deed restrictions. The implications of the act were debated before the board voted to recommend it. Additionally, the meeting touched on a tree protection bylaw draft, with concerns raised about its potential impact on affordable housing projects. Nonetheless, the board agreed to place and recommend the draft.

Preparations for the upcoming Independence Day parade were shared by the chair of the parade committee, including the theme and opportunities for volunteer involvement. The meeting also tackled the placement of ballot questions for the 2024 annual town election, concerning the transfer station project and the debt exclusion for waterfront infrastructure. Members of the board expressed their preferences for motion assignments for the town meeting.

The meeting concluded with the appointment of individuals to various town committees. Nancy Bar was appointed as an alternate to the Historical Commission and as a member of the Community Housing Partnership, among other appointments.