The Westport Lakes Drive subdivision dominated the meeting, as board members and residents expressed frustration over the development’s protracted timeline. Initially approved in the early 2000s, the project has seen minimal progress since 2016, with only one house completed between 2001 and 2017. Residents Bren Fera and Ry Elias voiced concerns about the subdivision’s incomplete infrastructure, including stormwater systems and unfinished roads, and questioned the validity of building permits given the expired covenant from 2017. Fera specifically pointed out the inadequate stormwater infrastructure and overgrown drainage basins, emphasizing the need for developer accountability and compliance with current regulations. The board discussed the necessity for the current developer to refile applications with updated engineering documentation, as the previous permits and covenant extensions were deemed inadequate.

The board also addressed Coastal Healing LLC’s project, noting the Massachusetts Department of Transportation’s (MassDOT) approval of necessary permits. With milling and paving completed at the site entrance, the board approved a motion to release $25,000 in security funds, contingent upon settling outstanding invoices. This decision marked a step towards closing out the project.

In addition to development issues, the board reviewed zoning amendments concerning ADUs and short-term rentals. Proposed changes aim to promote diverse housing options while maintaining neighborhood character. The amendments would allow ADUs by right, rather than requiring special permits, aligning with new state legislation. Concerns were raised about the potential for ADUs to become short-term rental units, which could alter the community’s residential nature. The board discussed the implications of these changes, particularly the maximum size limit of 900 square feet for ADUs and the prohibition of using them as short-term rentals. Some members argued for more flexibility in regulations to accommodate accessibility needs or provide additional income for homeowners.

The meeting also featured updates on several grant-funded projects aimed at enhancing community infrastructure and environmental resilience. A $992,000 grant will fund a medium-range planning study for the Route 6 area, focusing on community preferences for housing and business district changes. Additionally, the board highlighted an aquatic organism passage grant, with federal funding potentially totaling $3.4 million, to redesign wildlife passages in collaboration with the Buzz’s Bay Coalition.

Further discussions included the final draft of the town’s housing production plan, which has been in development for some time. The plan outlines a comprehensive housing needs assessment and potential locations for 40B projects, which provide affordable housing opportunities. Board members emphasized the importance of reviewing the document before the next meeting, identifying town-owned properties suitable for development. This plan aims to guide future housing initiatives.