09/08/2025 SELECT BOARD Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Select Board September 8,2025 Minutes Chair Wyman-Colombo noted that up to 114 children could be housed at a location fronting Route 28. The lack of safe, accessible outdoor areas was cited as a public safety and planning issue. While Member Cotton suggested that nearby parks may provide relief, others emphasized that on-site amenities are essential, and their absence was not addressed by Mass Housing despite being noted in the Town’s original comments. The Board agreed that the Town’s original response letter, which compiled comments from various departments and boards, should be resubmitted with a concise cover letter so that it becomes part of the ZBA’s public record. There was consensus that all concerns should be formally restated to guide the ZBA’s review and to preserve the Town’s position should an appeal be necessary. Town Manger Rodney Collins o?ered to work with Town Counsel to review the submitted letters and provide legal framing of the issues raised. Selectman Weeden also referenced the appeal process under 760 CMR 56.06 and requested more information about how the Town can exercise its right to appeal. Chair Wyman-Colombo further noted that the applicant has two years from the date of Mass Housing’s eligibility determination letter to submit a Comprehensive Permit application to the ZBA. There was consensus that the Town should continue monitoring the situation closely and remain engaged in all proceedings. The Select Board agreed that the next step is for Town Counsel to review the eligibility criteria, relevant ﬁnancing regulations, and the Town’s potential grounds for appeal or further comment. The Select Board concluded with a shared understanding that all members support responsible development, but it must align with public safety, local zoning, and legal standards to be in the best interest of the Town. Discussion of Barnstable County Luxury Tax Chair Wyman-Colombo introduced the topic, noting it was previously discussed at a recent meeting. She clariﬁed that she would recuse herself from further discussion in order to vote on the matter at the county level but o?ered to answer any factual questions. The proposal involves a real estate transfer fee on homes sold above a yet-to-be- determined value—estimated between $2–3 million. The percentage of the fee and exemptions are also still to be ﬁnalized. Revenue generated would go into a county- managed fund to support a?ordable housing initiatives across Cape Cod towns. Selectman Cotton asked whether the fee would apply to all properties sold above a certain threshold and whether it would be implemented county-wide or statewide. Wyman- Colombo conﬁrmed it would be speciﬁc to Barnstable County. 11