A member announced his retirement from the vice-chair position, expressing gratitude for his years of service and emphasizing the importance of making fair and informed decisions. He nominated Bill Duffy as the new chair and Steve Patton as vice-chair, both of whom were unanimously confirmed by the commission. The outgoing vice-chair shared advice on the challenges of balancing property rights with environmental regulations, highlighting the commission’s duty to make tough decisions for the common good. Duffy, who joined the commission earlier this year, acknowledged the vote of confidence and expressed his readiness to lead with the support of fellow commissioners.

In addition to the elections, the commission reviewed proposals for various environmental projects. A bulkhead replacement at the Heron residence on Acapescet Road was approved with conditions, including time restrictions from the Division of Marine Fisheries and a monitoring requirement for the adjacent salt marsh. Commissioners agreed to have a monitoring report to ensure the salt marsh remains unaffected by the construction.

Another project discussed was a beach nourishment initiative at Willis Lane. The project involves the transportation of material by barge and installation of a temporary, removable fence to accommodate seasonal changes. The commission stipulated that any fence removal during the spring and summer months would require monitoring to protect local wildlife, particularly the endangered clovers.

The commission also addressed an ongoing mitigation project on Buzzards Bay Avenue. After identifying unpermitted alterations and invasive species in the area, the commission conditioned the owners to return with a restoration plan within six months.