The Yarmouth Select Board locked in the warrant for the upcoming Special Town Meeting on Tuesday night, but the session revealed a significant divide over proposed restrictions on residential boat parking. While most of the 15 articles received unanimous support, Article 15—a zoning amendment regarding seasonal boat storage—passed with a narrow 3-2 recommendation, signaling a potential debate on the Town Meeting floor.

The Planning Board-backed proposal seeks to restrict boat parking in specific residential areas during the off-season. Member Mark Forest expressed skepticism regarding the logistics of the rule, noting that the seasonality clause is going to be a problem from an enforcement point of view. He further cautioned that the measure creates a financial burden for people who cannot afford boat storage. Chair Tracy Post echoed these concerns, stating that while she would allow the voters to decide, she has personal reservations. I believe it belongs in front of the people. I don't personally support it; I see the enforcement as an issue, Post said. Motion Made by M. Forest to recommend Article 15. Motion Passed 3-2 (T. Post and D. McGurrin opposed).

Financial priorities dominated much of the warrant review, including a correction to Article 11, which designates $550,000 for a new Fire Department ambulance. The Board also moved forward with recommendations for Article 1, covering OPEB retiree health insurance transfers, and Article 5, which seeks funding for a structural analysis of the MacArthur School building. Motion Made by M. Forest to approve and execute the warrant as amended. Motion Passed 5-0.

The Board also received a detailed update on the town’s share of the National Opioid Settlement. Yarmouth is positioned to receive a portion of the $500 million coming to Massachusetts, and the Yarmouth Substance Awareness Committee (YSAC) is currently vetting how to distribute these abatement funds. Co-chair Daniel Rodriguez explained that our goal is to be a robust group of volunteers supporting recovery-based needs. To date, funds have supported transportation to methadone clinics, harm reduction through the AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod, and scholarships for sober housing. Chair Post urged the committee to look toward younger demographics for future allocations, stating, I am a huge proponent of prevention. It seems like the funding is mostly in treatment. I'd be interested if we could do a full-scale program in our education system.

In a final review of the Local Comprehensive Plan (LCP), Town Planner Kathy Williams and Planning Board Chair Joanne Crowley highlighted new additions that protect Yarmouth’s maritime heritage. Following input from the Commercial Fisherman’s Alliance, the plan now includes specific action items to enhance the shellfishing and aquaculture industries. Member Forest praised the inclusion, noting, We are a boating and fishing community. Member Joyce Flynn added that the town’s energy committee was thrilled that you heard us and leaned into that more.

Small business expansion also took center stage as Scott Lopes, owner of Cape Flats Pizza at 559 Route 6A, requested an entertainment license for acoustic music and trivia. While neighbors on Weir Road expressed concerns regarding noise and spillover parking, Lopes assured the Board the music would remain at a comfortable level where people can still converse and would primarily serve to attract customers during quiet winter weeknights. Motion Made by [Not Specified] to approve the license as presented. Motion Passed 5-0.

Town Administrator Robert Whritenour concluded the meeting with a report on shifting housing trends. While overall town population is projected to decline, school enrollment is expected to remain steady over the next decade. Whritenour attributed this to a trend of multiple families sharing single-family homes, which maintains the student population despite demographic shifts. He also noted that the town is continuing to negotiate with developers at 897 Route 28 to ensure that upcoming affordable housing projects feature better architecture and mixed-use components.

The community paused during public comment to honor the legacy of Thomas George, a long-time Town Moderator and former State Representative who recently passed away. Chair Post characterized his decades of work as a significant sacrifice for the community, while Member Dorcas McGurrin added that she would miss his wit at Town Meetings. McGurrin also reminded residents that the rescheduled Fall Cleanup Day is set for Saturday, November 1, with volunteers meeting at Town Hall at 8:30 AM.

Finally, the Board authorized a push for enhanced utility infrastructure security. Motion Made by [Not Specified] to authorize the Town Administrator to file applications and execute agreements for cyber security upgrades for the Water Department SCADA system. Motion Passed 5-0. Whritenour noted that this initiative is a priority following cyber-attacks on municipal water systems in other regions.