Mattapoisett Select Board — August 25, 2026

The Mattapoisett Select Board convened on August 25, 2026, taking up procedural approvals, permit applications, and broader municipal planning initiatives. The board approved open session minutes from July 28 and August 11, 2026, as well as multiple past executive session minutes dating from 2023 through 2025, using the rule of necessity for dates where members were absent. Procedural votes were also passed to refer the proposed Cottage Community Development Bylaw to the Planning Board for a public hearing under M.G.L. Chapter 40A, Section 5, and to approve an Employee Appreciation Day on September 11, closing Town Hall at noon.

A significant portion of the meeting addressed an application by Michael King for a 14-day trailer parking permit at Zero Cove Street. King sought flexibility to use the camper on weather-dependent weekends in September and October, citing prior 2022 Conservation Commission approvals. Board members expressed concern over the lack of specified dates and potential conflicts with Section 3.6 of the zoning bylaws regarding property occupancy and leasing. Several neighborhood abutters voiced strong opposition, citing extreme fire risk next to dry marshland without a municipal water source, narrow road congestion, and unauthorized overnight occupancy. Following an contentious discussion, King left the call, and the board took no vote, effectively continuing the matter until specific dates and documentation are submitted.

The board also discussed beach maintenance operations with Highway Surveyor Garrett Bauer, who reported that a dedicated beach groomer would cost over $52,000 but could halve the current five-person crew required to clear seaweed from Aucoot Beach and Town Beach. Select Board members reviewed ongoing workshop initiatives, including the discovery that the Mattapoisett Housing Trust was formally established in 2011, progress on municipal communication channels, infrastructure condition reporting, and a comprehensive review of local bylaws regarding term limits, parking fines, and potential local wetlands protections.

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