The board devoted significant time to the ongoing studies of Chatham’s marshes, emphasizing the need to address environmental challenges posed by rising sea levels. A report highlighted alarming predictions, including the potential submersion of two-thirds of healthy marshes in South and West Chatham. This situation is exacerbated by warming temperatures in Barnstable County, accelerating at a rate faster than the global average. The study, conducted by the Center for Coastal Studies, underscored the threat to local ecosystems and property from marsh migration, which refers to the natural movement of marshes to higher grounds as sea levels rise. However, the presence of over 400 properties could obstruct this natural process, necessitating a comprehensive evaluation and prioritization of which marshes require intervention.

The marsh studies also pointed to the detrimental impact of the invasive purple marsh crab species, which has been damaging marsh grasses through burrowing activities. This issue adds complexity to the town’s efforts to preserve its marshlands. The board discussed maps predicting future marsh migration and the overlap with current properties, stressing the need for further analysis and planning to mitigate potential impacts. The Massachusetts Coastal Flood Risk Model provided new insights into flood risks, replacing outdated FEMA maps. It detailed how critical roads like Coco Cove Road and Hardings Beach Road could become impassable during storms, isolating homes and affecting emergency access. This highlighted the important role marshes play as natural buffers against flooding and underscored the importance of their preservation.

Transitioning to emergency preparedness, the board addressed the town’s sheltering plan, particularly in light of previous failures during severe weather events. A motion was introduced to task the town manager and staff with developing an alternative to the regional sheltering plan, given its inadequacy in past emergencies. Board members stressed the necessity of a “plan B” to ensure readiness for future events. The motion was intentionally broad, allowing for exploration of various potential backup locations, such as the elementary school or community center, to ensure preparedness.

The dialogue also touched on the practicality of establishing a duplicative shelter. While some members questioned the need for redundancy, others argued that having multiple options is critical, especially given past failures of regional shelters. The board discussed the logistical considerations involved, including staffing and resources, and the potential impact on relationships with regional planning efforts. The importance of transparency in contingency planning was emphasized, with some members noting that while brainstorming and tabletop exercises had occurred, these were not formally documented in existing plans.

Concerns were raised about the current emergency management plan, with some residents expressing dissatisfaction with its reliance on regional shelters. A resident’s email criticized the existing strategy, urging the board to declare a local state of emergency to ensure community access to warming facilities during power outages. The police department’s reassurance program was highlighted as an effective means of assisting vulnerable residents during emergencies.

The board recognized the need for ongoing evaluation and improvements in both areas to ensure community safety and resilience.