A significant portion of the meeting focused on the proposed increases in permit fees, which had remained unchanged for three years. The board deliberated on the necessity of these adjustments to support the increased workload and bolster staffing levels. Among the most notable changes was the adjustment of fees for body art establishment plan reviews, which rose from $125 to $175. Food service permit fees were also restructured, with establishments seating up to 20 people seeing an increase from $200 to $250. The fee adjustments were presented as a means to align with the actual costs of staff time and ensure prompt processing of applications, which businesses rely on for their operations.

Board members discussed the broader implications of these increases, acknowledging that while they may seem steep—such as a 50% increase for some permits—the lack of adjustments over the past three years justified the need for these changes. Concerns were raised about the potential impact on small businesses, particularly those with narrow profit margins. However, it was noted that Westport’s fees were comparatively lower than those of neighboring towns, and the increases were necessary to maintain the board’s operational capabilities. The board expressed a commitment to balancing the financial demands of the board with the economic pressures faced by local businesses.

A motion to adopt the new fee schedule was made, leading to a unanimous vote in favor. The revised fees are set to take effect on January 1, 2026. The board also approved a new fee structure for the transfer station, prompted by rising disposal costs. Notably, the cost of tire disposal saw a substantial increase from $900 to $1,750 per container. The board discussed various fee adjustments, such as increases for kitchen chairs, recliners, and mattresses that cannot be recycled. Concerns about illegal dumping due to higher fees were acknowledged, but the adjustments were deemed necessary to address mid-budget year financial challenges.

Additionally, the board addressed several health-related projects and approvals. Discussions included director-approved plans for various construction and repair projects requiring deed restrictions. Among these projects was a four-bedroom repair on Four Sen Street, which prompted a brief exchange about the creative use of space to meet density requirements. All projects received endorsement following a motion that passed unanimously.

The meeting also covered updates on water supply initiatives, including an excavation effort that successfully established a water source without the need for deep drilling. This development was highlighted as a cost-effective solution that utilized surficial groundwater. The board noted the planning board’s interest in exploring potential collaborations with private well operators, though financial feasibility was a concern.

The board also touched on upcoming presentations by the hazard mitigation committee to the select board, emphasizing the importance of the code red emergency alert system, especially during extreme weather events. The annual fee for this system was mentioned as $4,000, with a 5% increase each year, underscoring its critical role in community safety.

Logistical matters were also addressed, including scheduling for upcoming meetings. The board agreed to cancel the December 22 meeting due to the holiday season, with plans to reconvene on January 5 unless matters necessitated an earlier session. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, passing unanimously at 4:47 p.m.