The board delved into the challenging issue of the old high school building’s future, which is currently being vacated by the school committee. The debate centered on the financial feasibility of renovating the building for potential reuse by town offices. Concerns were raised about the heating system, utility costs, and the condition of facilities, including a non-compliant septic system. The possibility of supplementing the school committee’s budget to keep them as a tenant was discussed, with the understanding that this could help mitigate the building’s maintenance costs.

The Long-Term Building Committee’s involvement was highlighted, with recommendations to conduct a walkthrough to assess the building’s condition. Additionally, the potential to relocate town staff from the annex to the old high school, to save on insurance costs, was considered. However, there was disagreement on whether extensive renovations were necessary before such a move. Alternative uses for the building, such as hosting elections and public events, were also contemplated.

Furthermore, the board discussed the ongoing water billing dispute with Fall River. There was a discrepancy between the amount Fall River claims Westport owes and what Westport believes to be accurate. The town administrator provided an update on the discussions, emphasizing the need to reconcile these differences based on the actual numbers billed to customers and payments received.

The board expressed urgency in resolving the dispute, considering a more formal approach to reach an agreement with Fall River. There were also broader discussions about disparities in water rates when compared to other towns and issues pertaining to waterline extensions and blowoff meters. The board highlighted the importance of negotiating a new agreement that would be fair and equitable for Westport residents.

In addition to these primary concerns, the meeting touched on several other topics. The board approved a one-day wine and malt license for an upcoming fundraiser, as well as a shell stock event. Road use applications for various events were reviewed, with one application being held for further scrutiny due to the high number of participants.

The board also approved appointments and resignations within the town’s staff, including a dispatcher’s resignation and the appointment of a production assistant for Westport Community TV. Action items such as the approval of the order of taking for the Ran Extension as a public way, the memorandum of agreement with the highway department, and a review of the East Beach Cobble policy were discussed and moved forward.

The Select Board’s agenda included updates on other town projects, including East Beach Road paving, concerns about speeding, and requests for proposals for services like cemetery management and inspectional services. The progress on the Maca neighborhood sewer design and grant opportunities were also reviewed. Additionally, the board tackled issues related to Route Six Pump Station easements and the Hicks Bridge Landing, emphasizing the need for special legislation and final agreements.

Other administrative matters included the review of bill warrants with discrepancies noted due to fiscal year differences, contributions to various funds, and updates from committee meetings. The board also noted the need for more traffic calming measures and discussed public safety concerns. Updates on the broadband project and the affordable housing trust’s RFP for potential housing development sites were provided.

The meeting concluded with a reminder about upcoming meetings and the board’s decision to move into executive session to discuss collective bargaining with the Westport permanent firefighters association.