The discussion on affordable housing was initiated by the planning board’s frustration over the select board’s inaction concerning a proposal supported by the affordable housing trust. This proposal aimed to explore the use of the current high school site for housing developments that would include a mix of market-rate and affordable units, as well as possible facilities for veterans and assisted living. Despite unanimous support from the affordable housing trust, the select board did not move forward with a formal decision, which some members attributed to a lack of preparation, partly due to a letter from Mr. Thrasher received shortly before their meeting.

During the debate, some planning board members emphasized the urgency of addressing housing needs, referencing the housing crisis in Hollywood as a cautionary tale. The high costs of new construction were highlighted, with newly built homes in the area being sold for over $1.3 million. This surge in property prices sparked concerns over affordability and the economic implications for the town. The need for treatment facilities to handle essential services like sewage and water for any new development was also a focal point, further complicating the financial landscape of housing projects.

The planning board considered whether to pursue a request for proposals that would articulate the town’s interests in developing affordable housing. This approach would allow developers to propose solutions and assess the feasibility of renovating existing structures versus new constructions. The potential for a smart growth overlay to secure additional state funding for schools was also discussed, with the aim of addressing the town’s aging population and declining school enrollment through increased housing options.

In addition to housing, the board engaged in a examination of zoning bylaw amendments. One significant topic was the alignment of local dog kennel licensing regulations with a new state law known as Ali’s Law. This amendment aims to modify the requirement for a special permit for keeping more than four but fewer than seven dogs. The board acknowledged that this change would primarily affect those with five or six dogs and recognized the necessity of preparing for potential questions during the town meeting.

Another zoning issue focused on building height definitions, particularly as they relate to flood-prone areas. The board debated the merits of various height measurement methods, considering the implications of sea level rise and the need for clear guidelines that accommodate potential future building elevation requirements. Concerns were raised about aesthetic impacts if many homes were elevated significantly, leading to discussions about possible exceptions for existing structures that require elevation.

The preservation of scenic roads also featured prominently in the meeting. The board reviewed the scenic roads bylaw, which seeks to maintain the historic and aesthetic character of specific roads. Provisions for regulating tree removal and the maintenance of stone walls were discussed, with an emphasis on ensuring any alterations receive planning board consent. The board explored the possibility of designating new scenic roads and considered the implications of road work on these areas. Concerns about the highway department’s current tree maintenance practices were expressed, with a consensus that all agencies should adhere to the same standards to preserve the scenic and historical integrity of Westport’s roads.