The board learned that the contamination levels at fields two and three were just below the state threshold for residential exposure, with field two measuring around 190 parts per million of lead. Nevertheless, there were strong inclinations toward a comprehensive remediation approach that would close all three fields to ensure public safety during the cleanup process. The urgency of the situation was emphasized, with board members expressing a determination to initiate remediation swiftly. They also discussed the possibility of using Community Preservation Committee (CPC) funds for this purpose, although concerns were raised about the appropriateness of such funding. The board noted that additional general fund contributions might be necessary to cover the entire scope of the remediation and improvements.

Another speaker calculated that nearly 20,000 residents may have been exposed to the contaminants over the past 45 years, raising questions about the timeline and transparency of the field closures. The Select Board pledged to ensure community safety and transparency as they navigate these logistical and financial challenges, with a $2 million town meeting article proposed to kick-start the remediation efforts.

In addition to the issue of soil contamination, the Select Board addressed several other topics during their meeting. The introduction of a new deputy Building Commissioner position was proposed as part of a succession plan to ensure continuity and effective oversight within the Building office. This role would assume duties from the assistant zoning compliance officer, aligning with the town’s succession planning strategy without adding to the budget for FY 26.

Another notable discussion centered on the development of a Community Development Director position, aimed at enhancing coordination across different departments, including building, conservation, and health. The town manager highlighted the need for this role to address leadership and support management gaps, while also reducing the number of direct reports. Though no internal decisions had been made regarding who would fill this role, the proposal focused on reorganizing responsibilities rather than increasing costs.

The board also deliberated on various articles for the upcoming town meeting. Article 19 proposed amending the town code to prohibit the release of balloons filled with lighter-than-air gas, addressing environmental concerns. Articles 20 and 21 involved real estate tax exemptions for veterans and authorizing the leasing of town-owned parcels for solar vendor agreements, respectively.

Furthermore, the board discussed a proposed affordable housing project by Habitat for Humanity of Cape Cod, aimed at constructing 14 affordable homes on a 7.5-acre parcel in North Falmouth. The plan, which seeks to use the Massachusetts Chapter 40B process, involves a collaboration with the Falmouth 300 Committee Land Trust to ensure long-term public benefit. The homes are intended to be energy-efficient and priced between 60% and 80% of the area median income. The project received significant funding from the town’s affordable housing fund and adjustments were made based on community feedback regarding tree preservation and proximity to neighbors’ properties.

Lastly, the board considered the establishment of a short-term rental advisory committee, which would explore both general and zoning bylaw changes to address the economic implications of short-term rentals on affordable housing. The committee’s charge was seen as a working document, with an emphasis on flexibility and public engagement.