Suzanne Moquin

The meeting included amending the previous month's minutes to strike a sentence regarding giving advice on home repairs. Key business involved the Assistant Director's report, noting that Mary Ann's Cafe is resuming Thursday lunches starting in January 2026, and observation of increased participation in the Shine Program. There is potential funding for additional weekly hours for Ginny, supported by a letter from the Board. The discussion focused on developing a "Seniors as Resources" volunteer model for providing advice on small household repairs, similar to the Nauset Neighbors model, and a film club was suggested. The Board plans to invite Nauset Neighbors to speak at a future meeting and discuss joint programs.

The meeting involved two public hearings. The first concerned a proposal for partial demolition and renovation of a circa 1840 house, including removal of a sunporch and kitchen addition, basement replacement, and exterior insulation. The Commission expressed concern over the extent of alteration and requested clearer drawings, leading to a continuance. The second public hearing involved a proposal to replace the wraparound porch of a circa 1880 house with a structure featuring modern windows; the Commission granted conditional approval pending presentation of detailed elevation drawings. During the business session, discussions covered strategies to support property owners under demolition delay orders, developing standardized guidance for bylaw requirements post-approval, and reviewing time limits for presentations. The Commission also received updates on recruitment efforts, the status of administrative support requests, and accounting matters concerning Form B submissions and the plaque program. New applications were posted online.

Key discussions during the meeting included an update on the ADA Improvements at Chequessett Neck Bridge, featuring a presentation on the replacement of the existing dike with a new bridge designed to restore tidal flow to the river. The commission reviewed ADA compliant design features such as accessible parking, benches, viewing platforms, sidewalks, and crosswalks, with inquiries made regarding parking space dimensions and bench arm elimination. A variance request concerning ramps from the bridge to the river and harbor due to spatial constraints and funding limitations was also noted. Furthermore, the status of the ADA capital grant request, which was not recommended for funding by the Massachusetts Office on Disability, was addressed, leading to a decision to contact a representative to discuss future funding opportunities. The appointment process for new commission members was also reviewed.

The meeting primarily focused on the Goals and Objectives for the coming year and beyond, including providing analysis on housing needs, formulating design guidelines, identifying financing resources, and reporting on local by-laws affecting housing. The committee discussed formulating productive local partnerships and strategies to secure resources for affordable housing, involving local officials and other town committees. Discussions also covered planning a Housing Summit in January, receiving an update on revised septic regulations from the Board of Health, and strategizing for an informational advertisement campaign in The Independent newspaper targeting Spear matching funds. Housing updates included progress on the Lawrence Hill application process, the Habitat Homes project nearing move-in, securing a One Stop Grant for the Paine Hollow infrastructure, and efforts to establish an overlay district for Maurice's. The tax insert detailing Spear matching funds and a QR code was also noted.

Discussions focused on upcoming events, including a Habitat Dedication, the next Lower Cape Peer Group meeting, and the Housing Summit. Key topics included refining organizational goals and objectives, emphasizing education and advocacy, and considering outreach methods like a newsletter and student art projects. The committee also reviewed land availability, noting approximately 100 potentially available vacant lots. Progress updates were provided on Lawrence Hill housing, the creation of an overlay district for Maurice's site, securing a grant for Paine Hollow site development, and proposed changes to the Affordable Dwelling Unit (ADU) forgivable loan program.