The committee’s primary concern was the vulnerabilities of Westport’s historic properties to climate change impacts. A discussion centered around the need for a strategic plan to address these vulnerabilities, especially in areas highly susceptible to flooding. A FEMA National Flood Hazard Map was circulated, highlighting particularly vulnerable zones near the point, Coit, Boat House Row, and properties linked to the Westport River Watershed Alliance. The task of mapping these vulnerable properties was assigned to a committee member, who emphasized the importance of compiling a definitive list based on this data.

The committee recognized the need for an updated inventory of Westport’s historic properties. The existing inventory, dating back over 50 years and compiled by Betty Slade, was noted to be outdated and potentially incomplete. The focus was on protecting these structures from future flooding and wind events while preserving their historical integrity. It was highlighted that some neighborhoods face saltwater intrusion affecting septic systems and wells, posing challenges for their long-term viability.

Strategies for safeguarding vulnerable properties were discussed, including relocating utilities from basements, elevating buildings, and ensuring town regulations support prompt recovery efforts post-disaster. The importance of knowledgeable building inspectors and historical commission members was underscored for quick assessments following significant storms. There was also a call for forming a hazard mitigation planning committee with a representative focused on historic property preservation.

The committee’s approach to historic preservation was noted to shift, recognizing the environmental benefits of reusing existing buildings as a sustainable practice that mitigates emissions from new construction. Members shared insights from other communities, emphasizing the need for regulatory frameworks that empower property owners to maintain and reconstruct historic structures without overwhelming burdens. Additionally, the preservation of archaeological sites and other historical markers was discussed, with a focus on cataloging such sites without making them publicly known to prevent damage.

Engagement with the community and stakeholders was deemed critical. The committee discussed collaborating with the Historical Society to promote better aesthetics in modifications, such as using stone façades instead of concrete foundations, to maintain the historical appearance of structures. The use of Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds to support historic preservation efforts was advocated.

Another topic was the integration of these efforts into a comprehensive climate resilience report. The committee reviewed examples from other jurisdictions, particularly Salem, Massachusetts, known for its detailed climate resilience report. Members debated whether to adopt Salem’s report outline or maintain their current structure, which focuses on categories like agriculture, water, and health. The aim was to ensure a cohesive presentation style across different sections of the report, reducing redundancy and making it relatable to the Westport community. It was decided to review the proposed report outline in the next meeting, scheduled for September 19.

The meeting also touched on the issue of saltwater intrusion affecting local water systems. A small grant opportunity from the Massachusetts Ecosystem Climate Adaptation Network had been pursued but did not result in funding. Efforts to secure approximately $50,000 in funding for climate resilience initiatives under the MVP 2.0 framework were still ongoing, focusing on engaging vulnerable populations.

The geology and hydrology of Westport, influenced by glacial movements, were discussed in the context of freshwater and saltwater interaction. The Ghyben-Herzberg relationship was explained, describing how pumping water from wells can lead to saltwater intrusion, particularly along the coast and rivers. Community well systems were proposed as a solution for vulnerable areas, with the Westport Harbor Water Company relocating its well to a higher elevation to mitigate risks. The potential extension of the Fall River water system was also mentioned as a protective measure for the northern part of town.

The condition of local dams, specifically those owned by Fall River, was another point of concern. The East Branch and West Branch dams were noted for their inadequate spillways to handle predicted rainfall increases, highlighting the need for modern assessments and engineering solutions. The importance of reliable evacuation routes during flooding was also discussed, emphasizing the need for thorough inventories and evaluations of local roadways.