A considerable portion of the meeting was devoted to finalizing the lease extension for the Falmouth Country Club golf course. With the lease set to expire at the end of the month, the board faced a time-sensitive decision. The approved agreement extends the lease for one year, during which the golf course operator, Trun Sports, will cover full real estate taxes. There will be no required equipment contribution from the operator, a previous stipulation in the contract. This extension aims to provide operational continuity and avoid liability issues that would arise if the course were to close.

The board debated the financial implications of this agreement, with some members expressing disappointment regarding the timing of the discussions. Concerns were raised about the lack of clarity over potential rental payment negotiations, which could have left the town in a vulnerable position. Ultimately, the board agreed that extending the lease was necessary to maintain service levels for residents and golfers, despite differing opinions on the contract’s financial provisions.

In tandem with the lease discussions, the Select Board reviewed a housing development proposal on Sandwich Road, submitted by Northland Residential Corporation. The project aims to construct 36 residential units, with 13 designated as affordable housing. Concerns about the percentage of affordable units led to a discussion on the project’s financial viability and the potential need for additional incentives to lower the Area Median Income (AMI) threshold for the units.

During the meeting, the board also discussed the Local Initiative Program (LIP) application for the development, emphasizing the importance of addressing local housing needs while maintaining economic feasibility for developers. The board endorsed the project and supported the associated Low-Income Housing Tax Credit application, despite some concerns about community engagement and landscaping plans.

In addition to housing and lease matters, the Select Board tackled environmental and fiscal issues. The budget presentation for fiscal year 2026 proposed increases in education funding, with a 5.5% increase for the Upper Cape Regional Technical School. The overall budget increase was noted to be approximately $3.3 million, with a focus on conservative revenue estimates and sustainable expenditures to maintain fiscal stability.

The board engaged in discussions about the allocation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for the main library window replacement project, ultimately authorizing $1,128 to address a funding shortfall. This decision followed a four-year process to secure the necessary repairs for the library’s windows, particularly those on the north side that were in disrepair.

A notable environmental initiative involved the Association to Preserve Cape Cod (APCC) presenting plans for salt marsh restoration projects. Two specific sites, Weir Creek in Dennis and Oyster Pond in Falmouth, were highlighted as part of a broader effort to improve water quality and habitat in the region. Funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, these projects represent significant federal support for local conservation efforts.

The meeting also touched upon the transition to mobile food vendors at local beaches, with discussions centered around the feasibility and logistics of implementing a new food service model. The board considered the potential benefits of mobile vendors while acknowledging the need for a structured approach to ensure consistent service and revenue generation.

Amid these discussions, the board addressed safety concerns related to bike and pedestrian interactions with buses exiting the Falmouth Country Club parking lot. Community members and board members alike voiced the necessity for improved safety measures in lease negotiations with the Steamship Authority.