Michelle L. Freeman

The board discussed an abatement request for 27 Buttermilk Way and approved a partial abatement. Preliminary reviews were conducted for the FY27 Sewer Operating Budget and the FY27 Capital Request, including the adoption of an INI study initiative. The board also amended the Sewer System Development Charge for the Bourne Recreation property. Further discussions included updates on the Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF) current conditions, progress on the RFP for WWTF Operations and Maintenance, and various director reports including public recognition for staff and future agenda items.

The board discussed requests for variances related to septic system installations and continued use of existing systems at 41 Ramsada Avenue and 66 Jefferson Road. Deliberations focused on property line setbacks, depth of cover, and potential future requirements for nitrogen removal systems. The board approved the variance request for 41 Ramsada Avenue, conditioned upon the installation of an impervious membrane. The request for 66 Jefferson Road involved maintaining an existing septic system following repairs, with discussions centering on nitrogen loading calculations and compliance with local regulations for home expansions.

The committee reviewed several funding applications, including a feasibility study for the Bourne School Administration Building, design services for the town hall building envelope, the purchase of a conservation restriction by the Bourne Conservation Trust, and a renovation project for an emergency shelter. Discussion also covered an annual budget for affordable housing services, a hardcourt project at the Cataumet Schoolhouse, and community center shade structures. Additionally, the committee voted to return unused funds from the Keene House project and scheduled a future public hearing for further discussion on applications.

The meeting featured a presentation from the UMass Boston Center for Social and Demographic Research on Aging regarding a Community Needs Assessment Study to identify preferences and needs of the town's aging population. The discussion covered study components, including demographic profiling, focus groups, and community surveys, alongside strategies for advertising and language accessibility for the survey. Other business included reviewing departmental reports on outreach, respite services, and director updates, as well as addressing required training for members and future planning for a sub-committee to assist with the survey.

The board discussed several items, including the approval of a lot combination plan under MGL Chapter 41 Section 81P, the withdrawal of a special permit amendment application for a shared driveway at Scenic Highway, and a site plan review for the construction of a new fire station on Clay Pond Road. Additionally, the board held a discussion regarding proposed zoning bylaw amendments for the upcoming Annual Town Meeting, covering accessory dwelling units, the inclusion of tiny house regulations, and frontage requirements in the Downtown District. Other business included a brief update on property liens.