One of the meeting’s focal points involved the Hicks Bridge Landing project, which seeks to revitalize the deteriorating boat ramp and parking lot. The Town Planner, along with representatives from The Landing Commission and GZA, discussed securing grants for the project’s design and construction. The project emphasizes improving accessibility, stormwater management, and minimizing the potential impact on the shellfish industry. The board examined the construction timeline, funding sources, and permitting process, focusing on securing grants and addressing legal considerations related to the property.

Further discussions included a request for permission to park cars on a property for an upcoming event, which received unanimous approval after the police cited adequate available parking space. Moreover, the board addressed the petition to the general court for special legislation authorizing an all-alcohol beverage liquor license.

The board tackled the necessity of easements west of Route 88 for the water and sewer project, debating the need to include all four pump station locations in the authorization and expressing concerns over the lack of specific information on two locations.

A significant allocation of funds was approved for the Macomber Loop and Route 6 waterline construction project, motivated by the need to meet grant requirements and address uncertainties about the sewer project. Additionally, the community preservation act grant agreement for the Westport Historical Society received approval for repairs to a historical building.

The Recreation director’s request to dispose of old playground equipment and promote the summer concert series was met with a decision to organize an auction for community members to bid on the items.

The board also voted to declare certain items as surplus property, authorizing the Town Administrator to auction them off, and approved the hanging of a banner over Main Road to advertise the summer concert series.

Concerning short-term rentals, the board debated enforcement of regulations and the collection of room taxes.

Additionally, the board considered updating the agenda-setting process, reflecting current practices, and accommodating remote meetings and video recordings. Discussions also addressed the recent town meeting, emphasizing the enforcement of regulations on short-term rentals and the need for clear guidelines.

Several infrastructure projects were debated, including the extension of water services without extra taxes or charges and the offshore wind projects’ oversight. The board granted an extension of time to obligate funds for the old high school, providing greater flexibility in decision-making regarding the school’s future.

Finally, the board discussed the condition of a building plagued by termite infestation, highlighting maintenance responsibilities between the select board and the schools. Other topics included the town website update, cemetery expansion, and road widening projects, all indicative of the board’s wider scope of concerns and actions taken to address various municipal needs.