Shana Brogan

The meeting featured a presentation by the Alzheimer's Family Support Group (AFSC) concerning the high prevalence of cognitive impairment and dementia in Eastham's senior population and the organization's response, noting a recent significant funding cut of approximately $300,000. Discussions covered the AFSC's community center model, caregiver support via phone check-ins, and addressing medication management concerns. The AFSC also offered to conduct in-service training for first responders regarding de-escalation techniques for individuals with dementia. Key services reviewed included cognitive health screenings and caregiver education courses. The committee also set the date for the next meeting pending budget updates.

The Finance Committee meeting addressed several key items, commencing with a congratulatory note to the Town Manager-elect and expressing gratitude for the outgoing Town Manager's service. The committee reviewed departmental budgets, including Elected & General, Municipal Administration, Finance & Operations, Unallocated funds (focusing on insurance costs via the Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Agency), and Debt management concerning recent bond issues. New business included a vote by the Affordable Housing Trust to reduce the CPA percentage surcharge to mitigate wastewater costs. Old business updates were provided on the school modulars via the Capital Project Committee.

The special meeting focused on evaluating planting proposals for the Spring planting. Committee members walked the trails to observe the success rates of various species, noting unsuccessful Eastern Red Cedar plantings. Discussion covered reasons for poor survival rates and future improvement strategies. Observations were also made regarding recent planting areas and blueberry plants near the Red Maple plantings. Consensus was reached regarding narrowing the pathway from the Herringbrook Road entrance by planting Red and White cedars along the margin.

This joint meeting covered licensing actions, including the approval of a common victualler license for Chocolate Café and an auto dealer license for Advanced Equipment. Administrative matters included a presentation on the proposed Fiscal Year budget, covering general pressures, level service budgeting, capital planning, and revenue considerations. The committee also moved to open the town meeting warrant. The Town Manager's report provided updates on various municipal projects, such as the Nauset Regional High School project, water and wastewater progress, capital projects, coordination for the Route 6 project, short-term rental permitting, and electric vehicle charging station grants.

The meeting agenda included several regulatory determinations, such as a Request for Determination of Applicability for removing an existing deck and constructing a screened porch with an attached deck at 50 Hemenway Road, and another request involving the removal of invasive Japanese Black Pine Trees at 18 Horton Way. Administrative matters involved continuations of Certificates of Compliance for stone revetments and dock/ramp maintenance at various properties, alongside Administrative Reviews for tree removals. The public hearing section covered a Notice of Intent filed by the Town of Eastham for constructing a municipal wastewater system (Phase 1) for the Nauset Estuary watershed, as well as continuations of Notices of Intent related to pier reconstruction, septic upgrades, home remodels, and seawall replacements at several locations.