9/26/2016 BOARD OF SELECTMEN Minutes

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Board of Selectmen Minutes September 26, 2016 APPOINTMENTS & HEARINGS Renort on water samnline/monitorine conducted by UMass Dartmouth. Brian Howes: (continued) Goals of the water quality monitoring program will continue to assess the nutrient related water quality of each estuary, track short and long-term embayment health, and yield the site specific validation of the effectiveness of nitrogen management alternatives and for TMDL compliance. It was reported the oyster reef in Shoestring Bay, the aquaculture program in Gooseberry Island and the shellfish remediation in Waquoit Bay will potentially build on the Town's goal in its Master Plan for nitrogen management and estuary restoration with the shellfish aquaculture program. Bi -weekly sampling was conducted in July and August. The results have achieved an unprecedented success rate of nearly 99%. Dr. Howes reviewed salinity levels and trends in eutrophication. The Quashnet River is heavily impaired due to high nitrogen and low salinity levels. A study is being conducted to determine possible methods to correct the impairment. Dr. Howes indicated there may be an impediment in this area and it is possible that flushing may improve conditions. The Mashpee River was also reported to have low salinity and high nitrogen levels. The Popponesset estuary condition is nearly the same as Waquoit Bay. Of the sites sampled only one area in each embayment has met the TMDL requirement. It was reported that Ockway Bay is no longer a source for fish and migratory fish. With respect to this regard it is the recommendation of Dr. Howes to continue the dredge program, and management endeavors. Overall bay water quality metrics show slight improvement or stability, but continue to have impaired habitat quality. Lowering nitrogen levels will reduce phytoplankton and improve water quality and oxygen conditions. Results indicate the monitoring program would further detect changes in response to the implementation of management alternatives. Dr. Howes indicated that tracking water quality vs. TMDL targets will also be used to support the adaptive management approach and reduce future infrastructure costs. Undate on Countv and Cane Cod Commission. Jack Yunits and Paul Niedzwiecki: Paul Neidzwiecki Executive Director of the Cape Cod Commission was in attendance with Jack Yunits, the new Administrator of Barnstable County to give an update on activities associated to the Cape Cod Commission and in Barnstable County. Mr. Neidzwiecki indicated the Commission is planning to revisit the 5 -year Regional Policy Plan. In this review the CCC is expected to provide increased emphasis on technical assistance. Under this approach the two main areas of focus include capital planning and affordable housing. To expedite the development of affordable housing, it is anticipated the CCC will undertake a leadership role in this process. The Board of Selectmen would be invited to participate in this course.