The Harwich Select Board moved to overhaul the town’s building permit costs on Monday, transitioning from a square-footage model to a fee based on 1.2% of total construction value. Building Commissioner Ellanora McKay advocated for the shift, noting that the 2019 fee structure no longer accounts for the technical complexity of modern reviews. McKay stated that the current requirements dictate a much higher level of effort to review a project, citing the impact of FEMA regulations and the state’s stretch energy code. While the board sought to modernize revenue, Member J. Handler questioned the burden on residents, particularly regarding high-end interior finishes that do not require municipal oversight. It's hard for me to wrap my head around the concept of charging a homeowner this significant amount of a jump for things that the town doesn't really have inspection privilege over, Handler said. To mitigate impacts on the town’s Subsidized Housing Inventory, Chair D. Howell proposed a waiver policy for nonprofit and affordable projects, noting that anything that has an impact on the town's SHI list... that's a discussion that we should be able to have. Motion Made by P. Piekarski to approve the fee structure as presented, including a waiver policy for nonprofit projects or projects affecting the town's SHI list. Motion Passed 4-0.

The board also took a significant step regarding the controversial Pine Oaks 4 project, which was recently approved by the ZBA with mandates tied to the town’s wastewater facility progress. Seeking further oversight on the 242-unit development, the board authorized a discretionary referral to the Cape Cod Commission to review traffic and environmental impacts. Resident Matt Sutphin criticized the density of recent developments, telling the board, Welcome to the approaches of Myrtle Beach... our home rule was taken to the toilet by locals who did not adequately appreciate the value of home rule. Resident Sally Urbano supported the referral but expressed skepticism about the Commission’s recent track record on conservation. Chair D. Howell warned that the referral was not a guarantee of change, stating, The rules are not set here. The rules are set at the state... I don't want to raise everybody's hope to the point where this is a Hail Mary pass. Motion Made by P. Piekarski to authorize the Chair to sign a limited discretionary referral application to the Cape Cod Commission regarding the Pine Oaks 4 project. Motion Passed 4-0.

A proposed 10% increase to harbor fees sparked a debate over taxpayer equity at the town’s slips and moorings. Harbor Master John Harker noted that Harwich rates remain below the regional average, explaining that we find it's a fair and well-supported model when comparing to surrounding towns. However, the board balked at the lack of a tiered system for residents. Member M. Kelleher argued that non-residents is the wrong terminology. It should be taxpayers and non-taxpayers, while resident John Chry added that those slips are a bargain... why should out-of-town residents have the benefit of paying the same as in-town residents? The board sent the proposal back for further comparison without a vote. Conversely, golf rates saw a definitive adjustment as Director Roman Greer, attending remotely, recommended a $100 increase for non-resident annual passes at Cranberry Valley. This is the seventh straight year we've gone up $100 on the non-resident rate... to correct our position in the marketplace, Greer noted. Motion Made by P. Piekarski to approve the Cranberry Valley rates and fees for 2026. Motion Passed 4-0.

Infrastructure updates dominated the interim manager’s briefing, with K. Considine reporting a setback in the Phase 2 wastewater project. We discovered a pipe at an incorrect pitch... they're going to be coming back probably the week of New Year's to dig up that pipe and reset it, Considine said. Despite the repair, the town is moving forward with other capital needs. Motion Made by M. Kelleher to approve a contract with Atlantic Recycling Equipment for $75,862 for transfer station floor repair. Motion Passed 4-0. The board also moved to stabilize the DPW’s leadership following the recent creation of a deputy director role to assist Director Link Hooper. Motion Made by P. Piekarski to waive the 14-day waiting period for the appointment of Sean Libby as Deputy DPW Director. Motion Passed 4-0.

The meeting included updates on regional disaster planning and charitable efforts. Director of Planning Christine Flynn presented the final Hazard Mitigation Plan draft, emphasizing its role in flood insurance ratings. Having a certified hazard mitigation plan is a requirement... and we are evaluated annually, Flynn noted. Motion Made by P. Piekarski to authorize the planning department to submit the final draft Hazard Mitigation Plan to FEMA and MIMA. Motion Passed 4-0. In lighter news, Fire Captain Brad Willis celebrated the success of the 24th annual Homeless for the Holidays drive, which collected 860 toys and $9,500 for local families. The people at the pantry when we made our delivery yesterday were absolutely blown away, Willis said. Vice Chair P. Piekarski also took a moment to celebrate local students, noting, Congratulations, Cape Tech football, state vocational champions. Fantastic season. Earlier in the evening, Brett Forton provided a Monomoy Superintendent search update, noting that three finalists have been selected and public meet-and-greets will begin December 15.