549 Main Street, Chatham, MA 02633 ph: 5089455100 Chatham Town Office fx: 5089453550
Long Range Comprehensive Plan Preface
The Comprehensive LongRange Plan provides the Town of Chatham with a formal approach for maintaining and improving the community’s quality of life, for both present and future generations.
The primary components of the quality of life in Chatham are the community’s:
w Economic health – the ability of the townspeople to have adequate income and housing.
w Environmental health – the ability of the townspeople and other living things to coexist in an environment that does not compromise their physical health.
w Social health – the ability of citizens to have positive social interaction, as individuals and in groups.
Because Cape Cod is a unique environment with its own set of complex issues, new approaches to sustainable development for Chatham are necessary. That involves striking a balance among economic, environmental and social health.
Sustainability means continued economic and social development which does not cause damage to the environment and natural resources. It resolves the conflict between the sustenance of human life and the integrity of nature. Living beyond our ecological means will lead to the destruction of the character and uniqueness that is Chatham.
As diverse as Chatham's population is, there is agreement: People are happy with the Town. They want it to stay as it is. That is not possible. With present zoning bylaws and regulations, Chatham is quickly changing before our eyes. Is there a neighborhood that has not seen small homes either added to with additions larger than the original home or demolished to make way for an oversized trophy home?
There is great concern that Chatham is falling victim to development forces which deteriorate its uniqueness and turn it into Anyplace, U.S.A. The overriding concern of residents and visitors alike for Chatham is to hold on to what it has and ward off changes which could undermine its character, beauty and quality of life.
We are a seaside resort town and, at the same time, home to yearround residents who work here or have retired here. Existing housing stock can house 16,000 to 35,000 people — and often does so. However, infrastructure, particularly drinking water and wastewater facilities are not adequate to sustain the Town. Nitrogen, a product of population growth, is polluting our precious groundwater, our ponds, estuaries, and seashores.
Preservation of our natural resources is at the heart of assuring a strong economy. Accelerating social and economic growth can adversely affect the town's character and dangerously threatening the quality of life. It is imperative that, with citizen participation and strong leadership from our elected officials, visionary regulations and bylaws be passed to foster sustainability so that economic demands placed on the environment by population and commerce can be met without reducing the ability of the environment to provide for future generations.
The Comprehensive Long Range Plan reviews the areas which impact Chatham's community environment. Each chapter addresses the specific actions needed to achieve the goals set forth which are aimed at preserving Chatham's way of life. Because of the time involved in producing this Plan, certain actions included in the Plan are fact. However, many more must be implemented.
Development should be sustainable growth. Commerce should be concentrated in the existing Neighborhood Centers to prevent urban sprawl along Route 28. Affordable Housing should focus on redevelopment and rehabilitation of existing housing stock and/or developed land wherever possible.
Providing affordable housing for our residents sustains the health, vitality and diversity of our community. Without affordable housing, we will lose our working families, our schools, our kids and regress into a community of retirees and summer people.
An Economic Development Committee should be established, made up of townspeople who are focused on creating new jobs, attracting business and managing community development recognizing the criteria for sustainable community facilities and infrastructure.
A program should be instituted to obtain data on private home rental use and water management software must be acquired to provide water usage data essential for the wastewater management study and accurate population counts throughout the year.
Pressure on our natural resources continues as Chatham's population expands. It is necessary to identify measures to counter damage already done, to repair that damage and to prevent further damage if we are to preserve Chatham's natural assets so vital to the Town's character and economic health.
Chatham’s older population calls for enhanced emergency and rehabilitation services. Larger numbers of people of all ages are coping with handicaps. Children and young people are at risk to factors that were unknown in years past. Resources for public health should meet the needs of townspeople so all can be productive members of our community.
The future begins now. The Long Range Planning Committee urges citizens to accept this long overdue Comprehensive Plan for the Town of Chatham so that quality of life goals may be achieved and Chatham will continue to be a desirable place to live and work. 549 Main Street, Chatham, MA 02633 ph: 5089455100 Chatham Town Office fx: 5089453550
Community Vision Statement Community Vision Statement
Looking Back
Situated on the elbow of Cape Cod and surrounded on three sides by water, Chatham has always had its face turned toward the sea. As a consequence, its history has been one of geographical isolation and of dealing with the ocean’s forces. Chatham prides itself in being an independent community whose spirit has been shaped throughout history by a unique relationship of land and water.
When the first people set foot on the Cape some 12,000 years ago, the landscape was vastly different from today’s. Following herds of caribou through a harsh land left by the great glacier’s retreat, they probably traveled up the coast which extended miles seaward of where it is today and encompassed George’s Bank, as well as Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. These nomads conceivably witnessed the formation of the multitude of kettle ponds which dot the landscape today.
Millennia of rising seas obliterated most traces of these early inhabitants and radically altered the Cape’s shoreline. As the climate warmed, the land evolved. Sandy beaches and bars, marshlands, and estuaries were created, and the people we know as the Monomoyicks established a way of life not greatly different from that of the area’s European settlers. For at least three thousand years prior to the Mayflower’s landing on Cape Cod, the native population sustained themselves largely from shellfishing, hunting, fishing, and gathering. Their success was evident to Henry David Thoreau who wrote:
... Shells, opened by the Indians, were strewn all over the Cape. Indeed, the Cape was at first thickly settled by Indians on account of the abundance of these and other fish ... I picked up half a dozen arrowheads, and ... could have filled my pockets with them.
From “Cape Cod” by Henry David Thoreau
With the abundance of the coast, horticulture and agriculture remained secondary for the Monomoyicks, as it did for the colonists. It was not long after 1664, when William Nickerson and his family first came to Chatham, that the small number of families who came to live here realized that the land was not profitable for farming or forestry. Instead they had to look to the waters of Pleasant Bay, the Atlantic, and Nantucket Sound, and to the scores of salt water inlets and fresh water ponds for their survival. Through four early migrations the settlers endured a harsh environment that threatened their existence, and turned to fin and shellfishing, whaling, and commerce for their livelihood. Knowledge and tradition were carefully handed down through families, and the hardships of their lives and occupations continued to keep the community small and closely knit, even when they enjoyed a small measure of prosperity.
In the late 1800s, Chatham’s popularity as a summer resort blossomed as the splendid isolation and natural beauty known to the town’s inhabitants was discovered by people from Boston and New York. Many of them purchased tracts of land and built large homes, but they also brought with them a conservation ethic that recognized the importance of retaining Chatham’s historical identity as well as its still unspoiled miles of shoreline and waterfront settings. Even with the advent of rail and automobile traffic and the building of resort hotels, the community continued well into the twentieth century to be a small fishing village with a population no greater than 100 years before.
In the period following World War II, changes began to test whether Chatham’s continuing link to the past would be able to survive. With better highways, greater affluence and a wish to retreat from the problems of city life and urban sprawl, summer visitors and retirees soon saw Chatham as a mecca: a small town whose sense of community and pristine environment at the edge of the sea was now a muchdesired commodity.
The immediate effect was a burgeoning yearround population, which exploded during the summer months, accompanied—as might be expected—by continuing development of new houses and businesses. Growth was tempered, however, by the same factors which lay in Chatham’s history for over 250 years: a conservation ethic which sought to protect and retain a dwindling open space; a preservation ethic which cherished the historical attributes and scale of the typical New England village; and the continued sense, if now largely spiritual, of a town set apart from its neighbors.
Chatham Today
Chatham’s spiritual, perceptual, and to a certain extent, geographic sense of isolation continues to shape its outlook and response to outside forces. Although Chatham is no longer a “small New England fishing village,” the desire to remain a small and closeknit community guides many of the aspects of life within the Town.
Chatham’s offthebeatenpath location has meant that it has escaped from many of the overwhelming development pressures experienced by other Cape towns. Those that come here choose to do so — it is difficult to drive through Chatham on the way to another destination. Development has taken place, although more slowly and with somewhat better control than elsewhere. Chatham still retains its village character with its Cape Cod style, its distinct neighborhood centers, its small, intimate building scale, “walkability,” community gathering places, monuments and museums which sustain its connection to the past, and perhaps most importantly, its strong relationship with the sea.
The tremendous changes since World War II, have not bypassed Chatham completely. The Town has undergone significant alteration, transforming itself from a fishing village and resort into a retirement and tourist destination. The fishing industry is threatened. In summer the population triples.
Many of the changes resulted from national trends that started after World War II and are continuing: escalating population and residential development. Each decade since the War, a thousand yearround residents have settled in Chatham, tripling the population since 1945. Over three thousand houses have been built since 1960, more than doubling their numbers. Today, half of the houses are seasonal, and about a third of the adults are retired. Residential growth has eaten up land. Over half the land in town has been developed for residential use compared to one fifth before the war. With commercial development following residential, open space has dwindled from over sixty percent of the land to less than thirty percent just since 1960. Loss of open land has meant more than numbers — it has meant more roads and the virtual disappearance of cart paths and dirt lanes, more traffic and demand on natural resources, loss of land for public use, the blocking of views from the hills and along the lakes and ocean shores, and the near disappearance of agriculture. The wide open and country look Chatham had early in the century has given way to a wooded and suburban appearance.
The increased population has also brought with it economic diversity and growth. The construction industry has flourished. The retired population — which has blossomed in recent decades — brings with it economic and cultural stimulation. The everincreasing tourist industry has created business and jobs. Despite the problems of seasonal employment, the decline in fishing and agriculture, and high housing costs, residents’ economic opportunities have broadened with population growth.
While other Cape towns have suffered from economic growth, with strip development bleeding commercial centers and destroying community character, Chatham has fared reasonably well. Strip and franchise development have been moderate, thanks in part to Chatham’s not being a town tourists cruise through. Our downtown is a thriving village. While some residents say it is geared too much to tourism and that crowds and traffic squeeze them out in summer, the downtown still has its village character and is the envy of many other Cape communities.
A collective vision for Chatham is difficult to derive primarily because of the diversity of the population. The tight knit village of 7,000 that shop and go to school, work, church, and Town Hall, blooms to 25,000 in a summer season that has grown beyond its traditional perimeters of Memorial Day to Labor Day.
There are several distinct populations which make up Chatham’s character. Yearrounders encompass those who have lived by these shores for generations and “washashores” who have come to work or retire here. This is the participatory group – they dig clams, longline for fish, heal the sick, own or man the shops/restaurants/motels, clean the houses, write the wills, fix the cars, teach the children, build the houses, visit the Council on Aging, serve on committees, vote in elections, and wrangle and compromise at dozens of town meetings. They are the base, they have picked the course, and they feel that Chatham belongs to them.
There are the summer people, some fifty percent of whom are landowners and taxpayers and many of whom have been summering here for generations. Annually, the yearrounders welcome them back as friends and acquaintances. Their desire is for Chatham to remain always as they know it, because even if they can’t vote, Chatham also belongs to them.
And there are the renting tourists and the day trippers, who flock to the beaches, the stores, the band concert, the restaurants, the lighthouse. They bring the summer economy, the summer problems and remind us, by their sheer desire to come here, that we must plan for them. Chatham belongs to them too.
As diverse as Chatham’s population is, there is agreement: people are happy with the Town and want it to stay the way it is. There is great concern that Chatham not fall victim to development forces which would deteriorate its uniqueness and turn it into Anyplace, USA. When asked, visitors, residents and parttime residents almost all have opinions on how things could be improved. But the overriding concern is for Chatham to hold onto what it has and ward off changes which could undermine its character and beauty.
Chatham has weathered change as well as it has partly because of its luck of being off the beaten path and partly because people care about the town and have invested their time in it. Chatham’s growth has been guided by the people who live here. Individuals have been able, and continue to be able, to “make a difference” in their town, and they continue to be sensitive to the wishes and desires of all of the population. For Chatham to preserve those aspects of life that are cherished and important to all, to retain its special sense of community, and to foster growth that is appropriate to the town requires careful management and a collective vision of the future.
Guiding the Future
The initial step in the development of a Comprehensive Plan, is to identify what people feel would threaten the existing quality of life that they so clearly want to preserve. Then, if we can articulate and agree upon what we see as our collective goals, we can find the proper tools and solutions to enable us to achieve these goals.
In some cases, however, what is important to one group might be in conflict with what is important to another. Recreational use of our waters, for example, can be in conflict with shellfishing; increased tourism, which keeps our economy alive, takes its toll in traffic congestion.
If anything is clear, it is that Chathamites strongly desire a quality of life based upon the continuing historical presence and character of a small town with its overriding feeling of Cape Cod — human scale, a seaside atmosphere and physical beauty. They firmly want to protect against those things that would threaten that way of life, chief among those being:
increased dominance of the automobile encouraging strip development, requiring more parkinglots,undermining the character of neighborhood centers and threatening the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists.
the possible loss of the fishing industry which is important not only to the economy of the town but also to its character and history.
an everincreasing influx of people, especially during summer months, giving residents the perception of being crowded out.
decreasing ability to get to and enjoy the waterfront because of erosion, development and the demands of often competitive uses.
dwindling open land and scenic vista.
increase in pollution to the detriment of estuaries, lakes, streams and shellfish beds. loss of historic features and structures through development and neglect.
In many respects, a plan that emphasizes preserving Chatham’s best qualities will focus upon those things that constitute a threat to these qualities. Yet, it cannot be ignored that real and immediate problems — such as maintaining reasonable government services — are not simply tied to preservation, but address needs that will require financial and community support.
People are clearly concerned with aspects of their daily existence that may not in the past have even been thought about or questioned, but which in today’s world — even on Cape Cod — are easily recognized as being critical to the fabric of our lives, namely:
the purity of our air and water
the preservation of natural systems
the safety of our streets and homes from crime and physical violence
retaining a sense of community in which people get involved
affordable housing
quality public services and facilities such as schools, libraries, and human services
jobs and economic opportunity on a yearround basis
The Comprehensive Plan is an effort to preserve the very best of Chatham and check those forces that would diminish it as a special place. Our challenges are to strike a balance among the interests of Chatham’s population — yearround and summer, retirees and workers, children and adults — and to find the means whereby our goals can be achieved.
What we have seen as we looked back into Chatham’s past and carried this vision forward to the present day is a rich historical continuity that blends old families and traditions, summer residents and “”washashores””, into a small seaside town whose identity and scale have been preserved for over three centuries. The more Chatham has changed the more its people have tried to retain their links to the past and to their unique surroundings. In great measure, they have been successful so that Chatham remains today as a very special place.
The Comprehensive Plan is an effort to maintain and build on that continuity so as to hold onto the best of what we have, while simultaneously dealing with the pressures and problems of a rapidly changing world. Ensuring the survival of the things that we value in Chatham can not be left to chance.
549 Main Street, Chatham, MA 02633 ph: 5089455100 Chatham Town Office fx: 5089453550
Land Use
Draft Rev. 03/15/03 1. Land Use
Overview
By 1900, the land use pattern in Chatham was well established, with the Town Center east of the Oyster Pond where it remains today, and neighborhood centers along Route 28. Hotels were built off Shore Road and Cottage colonies developed near Nantucket Sound. Widespread residential development eventually claimed the majority of land. Single family homes occupy most of the land. Half of the houses are used only part of the year.
Preservation of open space was a focus as the town experienced a building boom in the 1980s. The Town chose to purchase numerous packages of underdeveloped lands for conservation and watershed. Today, over 1,000 acres on the mainland (approximately 12% of the total mainland acreage) are owned publicly or privately as conservation lands. In addition, another 1,000 acres remain undeveloped, primarily in small parcels. Every effort must be made to preserve this green space and to add more in the next few years.
The primary growth management challenge facing the town today is to keep Chatham as it is now preserving the unique character of each neighborhood, maintaining and minimizing commercial development, conserving open space, protecting embayments, ponds and other sensitive areas, while providing an economic base for Chatham’s yearround residents. All these efforts must be conducted with an understanding of the town’s carrying capacity and wastewater management plan.
Goals & Policies
1.1 Goal To permit only that growth and development that is consistent with the carrying capacity of Chatham’s natural environment in order to maintain the quality of life in our Town. Chatham should retain its small town and seaside resort character and any development should maintain that, not minimize or destroy it. Promote the redevelopment and reuse of existing developed property rather than the development of vacant land. Bylaws and regulations should be created to ensure that intensity is maintained or minimized never maximized.
Policies
To reach these goals, amend the Zoning Bylaws to:
1. Prevent Route 28 from becoming a sprawling strip of small and general businesses allowed under present zoning. To do this, zoning shall be changed to limit the size of some neighborhood centers to keep development contained therein, change existing small business districts to residential zoning, and create specific criteria unique to each neighborhood center. These criteria should be designed to maintain the unique and current character of each neighborhood center while considering growth consistent with that character. Adopting a District of Critical Planning Concern for Route 28 could be a useful means of reaching this goal and implementing these policies. (LU1)
2. Density limits (dwelling units per acre) should be established, consistent with the character of each neighborhood center. A limit on commercial density/intensity should also be set. (LU2)
3. Change present zoning along Route 28 outside the new Neighborhoodcenter limits from small business to residential to control density and lessen traffic along Route 28. Nonconforming commercial entities will have to follow specific criteria that maintain or minimize the intensity of development. (LU3)
4. Revise the review criteria for hotels, motels, and inns governing new development and changes to existing establishments in order to control intensity and to ensure neighborhood compatibility. (LU4)
5. Establish a zoning designation and regulations allowing mixed residential and limited business use along Stony Hill Road. (LU5)
6. Maintain the present boundaries of industrial areas except that expansion of the district into adjacent lands may be recommended to Town Meeting by the Planning Board provided that the land is found to be suitable for industrial use and that detrimental impact to adjacent properties can be adequately mitigated. (LU5)
7. Evaluate current single family residential areas as to lot size and other dimensional characteristics to determine if changing dimensional requirements to reflect more closely asbuilt conditions in specific areas is feasible. (LU6)
8. Detail specific requirements for land use buffers in the site plan portion of the Zoning Bylaw. (LU7)
9. Review local bylaw provisions affording protection to preexisting nonconforming lots beyond what the state requires on grandfathering. (LU8) Amend the Land Use sections of the Zoning Bylaw concerning prohibited, permitted, special permit, and special condition uses to reflect the provisions of this plan, including:
1. Zoning bylaws should be created to limit the expansion of nonconforming residential units and to prevent increased nonconformity. (LU9)
Establish design standards for apartments accessory to nonresidential buildings and for apartments created in converted non residential buildings to require amenities such as usable yard space, landscaping, reserved parking near entrances, and to require visual screening of parking, retention of mature trees, views and privacy in site planning. (LU10)
For any new industrially zoned land, increase lot size and dimensional requirements from those presently in force to provide ample room for circulation, buffers, parking and adequate setbacks. (LU11)
Review all uses which are allowed by right, by special permit, and by special condition in all districts and amend where warranted to ensure that future land uses are compatible with all provisions of this plan. (LU12)
Establish a system for regulating home occupations.
Allowing by right those home occupations which are compatible with residential neighborhoods.
Prohibiting those which are patently incompatible within residential areas.
Requiring special permit review for those which may be compatible in a residential setting. (LU13)
Review all special permit applications for new, changed or expanded uses in light of the plan’s goal to maintain and preferably minimize intensity. Any expansion or intensification of nonconforming commercial uses outside of Neighborhoodcenters and other commercial districts should be discouraged. (LU14)
To preserve open space, the following steps are to be enacted:
Encourage Open Space Residential development in all zoning districts with minimum lot sizes appropriate to each district. Require residential subdivision developers to submit Open Space Residential plans as an alternative to a standard subdivision. (LU15)
The Town should establish and fund a master plan to acquire property to create and maintain open space. Private entities also should acquire property to preserve it as open space. Both entities should consider purchases, easements, leases or other legal means. (LU16)
Land shall be selected for acquisition by the town, through the Land Bank Committee, Community Preservation Trust Fund or any other entity so created, if its purchase furthers the goals of this plan. Land meeting one or more of the following criteria shall be considered for purchase:
Is contiguous with other preserved open space. Contains unprotected natural resources.
Supports plant and wildlife habitat.
Represents open space in highly visible locations, such as along major roadways.
Provides a link for existing or potential walking or biking trails.
Could provide public access to great ponds or other water bodies.
Provides or expands public recreation opportunities, including scenic vistas.
Has high development or redevelopment potential and is on a major roadway outside a Neighborhoodcenter.
Would provide benefit to the general public rather than an individual neighborhood.
Looks suitable for village greens within Neighborhoodcenters.
Encourage the purchase of vacant lots by neighborhood associations for open space by providing information to residents concerning such properties. (LU17)
The Town should seek outside funding and grants where possible to maximize its ability to achieve the goal of acquiring land for open space. (LU18)
1.2 Goal To preserve existing Neighborhoodcenters by limiting their boundaries based on the collective needs and desires of each specific neighborhood’s residents. Maintain a concentration of commercial, residential and mixed use in these neighborhoods, including affordable housing, beneficial retail and service uses as needed.
Policies
The following Neighborhoodcenters exist in Town where a mix of business and residential development is located:
South Chatham The Cornfield Downtown West Chatham Crowell Road North Chatham
Establishment of Neighborhoodcenter boundaries, regulation of future land use, public improvements, and the character of development shall be guided by provisions of this plan for the individual Neighborhoodcenter. Decisions on site plans and special permits shall be strictly guided by the plan’s first land use section goal. (LU19)
Common criteria for all Neighborhoodcenters shall be determined to maintain a mixture of uses residential, commercial and offices in a compact, pedestrianoriented center where people live and work. Affordable housing in Neighborhoodcenters shall be encouraged.
Enhance present Neighborhoodcenter’s identity. (LU20)
Consider the needs of pedestrians with respect to sidewalks, safe crosswalks where necessary, and bus stops. (LU21)
Reduce the number and width of entrances and exits to businesses in a Neighborhoodcenter to cut down on multiple and dangerous turnings, improve the safety of intersections, and provide crossaccess between commercial properties where desirable. (LU22)
Provide convenient parking areas and traffic circulation, encourage shared parking and crossaccess among businesses. (LU23)
Encourage attractive streetscapes by locating parking to the rear and sides of buildings, require green areas in front of buildings, upgrade the appearance and efficiency of parking areas through landscaping and reconfiguration. (LU24)
Encourage compatible and appropriate architecture and site use by instituting dimensional requirements appropriate to the specific Neighborhoodcenters, review architectural changes and new construction in light of local styles and character, require site plantings and screening of unattractive features. (LU25)
The unique nature of each Neighborhoodcenter should be preserved. The following concepts shall guide bylaw revisions, permitting decisions, and other actions pertaining to individual Neighborhoodcenters:
South Chatham Location: Roughly from west of Morton Road to east of Post Office Square along Rte. 28.
Description: South Chatham is a quiet, rural neighborhood with very limited commercial activity. The predominant land use is residential. The center is zoned Small Business (SB).
Neighborhood Elements: Residential, small restaurants, post office, hardware store, church, village hall, branch library, fire station, public transportation (HyannisOrleans bus).
Issues: Preservation of rural character and residential setting, lack of crosswalks, poor condition of sidewalk, lack of sidewalk on north side, appropriateness of SB zoning.
Assets: Well established neighborhood identity; small, neighborhood businesses in keeping with character; village hall and library provide focus; architectural consistency.
Policies/Actions: Preserve neighborhood character; limit business to small, neighborhood establishments; prevent expansion of commercial area; improve pedestrian safety. (LU26)
West Chatham Location: Along Rte. 28 (Main St.) roughly between George Ryder and Barn Hill roads.
Description: West Chatham is the second most important commercial area in Chatham after Downtown. There is a developed commercial area (Zoned GB3) along the south side of Rte. 28 and on the north side at the intersection of George Ryder Rd. Low density residential uses are located on the north side of Rte. 28 in the area now zoned SB and Flexible Overlay.
Neighborhood Elements: Post office; businesses with accessory apartments; retail stores; offices; convenience/gas station; restaurants; proximity to proposed bike path, Samuel Hawes Park, and to public conservation land; public transportation (Hyannis to Orleans bus and Chatham Area Transit summer shuttle).
Issues: Highway “corridor,” strip development appearance, designed for automobile with poor conditions for pedestrians, hazardous intersections and business entrances, lack of landscaping, no focal point or sense of “place,” lack of public green space, lack of architectural coherence.
Assets: Proximity to proposed Cape Cod Rail Trail spur and Samuel Hawes Park, established commercial identity, sidewalk along north side, located on bus route.
Policies/Actions: Limit commercial development and redevelopment to the existing commercial areas of the neighborhood. Restrict area now zoned Small Business to residential use. Reduce the “strip commercial” orientation, upgrade the appearance of public facilities and encourage upgrade of commercial properties, improve vehicular safety, and improve public amenities and conditions for pedestrians. (LU27)
The Cornfield Location: Along Rte. 28 roughly between Pond View and Uncle Albert’s Drive.
Description: The Cornfield is an area of residential and commercial mix that sprawls along Rte. 28 with little cohesiveness. A sidewalk runs along the north side of Rte. 28. There are no major intersections in this area. There is one parcel of vacant land (10 acres).
Neighborhood Elements: Mix of commercial and residential uses; restaurants, specialty shops; service businesses; offices; public transportation (Hyannis to Orleans bus).
Issue: Lack of focal point and public green space, lack of sidewalk on south side of Rte. 28, poor condition of sidewalk on north side, no crosswalks, highway “corridor” appearance, traffic congestion and turning movement problems, highly visible utility poles and wires on both sides of Rte. 28, inadequate space for parking, sidewalk, and landscaping along north side of Rte. 28.
Assets: Landscaped areas along south side of Rte. 28, crossconnections between parking areas of businesses on north side of Rte. 28, sidewalk along north side, adequate room for sidewalk on south side, located on bus route.
Policies/Actions: Future development and redevelopment should emphasize varied residential uses and limit commercial uses to serve the neighborhood. Aesthetics, traffic safety, and pedestrian amenities should be improved. (LU28) Crowell Road Location: Along Rte. 28 from west of Heritage Lane to the Rotary and along Crowell Road from Rte. 28 to Tip Cart Road.
Description: The Crowell Road area is Chatham’s cultural, public facilities, and recreation center. The intersection of Crowell Road and Rte. 28 is the commercial center of the neighborhood. Commercial and residential uses are interspersed with cultural and public facilities through the neighborhood.
Neighborhood Elements: Post Office, Depot Rd. Elementary School, police and fire stations, public recreation (ballfield, playground, tennis courts, community center), former Main St. School, neighborhood conveniences (grocery, drug store, retail, restaurants, barber shop, banks, church, convenience, gas), art galleries, and residential uses (single family and apartments), public transportation (Hyannis to Orleans bus and Chatham Area Transit summer shuttle bus).
Issues: Poor conditions for pedestrians at Crowell Road intersection and along south side of Rte. 28, congestion and lack of parking at post office, traffic congestion and turning movement problems, lack of street trees, competing uses and limited space on townowned sites.
Assets: Public recreation facilities, connection to proposed Cape Cod Rail Trail spur, sidewalk along north side of Rte. 28 and west side of Crowell Rd., located on bus route, signalization of Crowell Rd. Intersection.
Policies/Actions: Allow a mix of multifamily residential, cultural, recreational, public facilities, and neighborhood commercial. Encourage affordable housing. Improve conditions for pedestrians, aesthetics, and identity of center. Focus commercial uses around Crowell Road intersection. Focus cultural and recreational uses between Crowell Road and the rotary and along Crowell Road. (LU29)
Downtown Location: Along Main street from the rotary east to 400 Main St.
Description: The downtown is Chatham’s main business center. Its characteristics reflect the traditional areas of Cape Cod, with a compact mix of residential and business uses, pedestrian orientation, and small scale of buildings.
Neighborhood Elements: Mixture of residential and business uses, churches, banks, government offices, public parks, inns, restaurants, public parking areas, library, public transportation (Hyannis to Orleans bus at rotary and Chatham Area Transit summer shuttle bus).
Issues: Spread of businesses eastward, inadequate parking, traffic congestion, growing tourist orientation of businesses, impact of business expansion on architectural integrity, inadequate pedestrian lighting on west end, need for upgrade of sidewalks.
Assets: Represents most traditional Cape neighborhood characteristics; pedestrian orientation; small businesses; eclectic, unplanned appearance; historic structures.
Policies/Actions: Limit businesses to neighborhood area; maintain variety of architecture, small scale of buildings, lack of uniformity; improve conditions and amenities for pedestrians while preserving the character of the street scape; explore ways to reduce congestion and parking problems; continue to explore options for removing overhead utilities. (LU30) North Chatham Location: Along Rte. 28 (Orleans Rd.) roughly between Misty Meadow Lane to south of Stony Hill Rd.
Description: North Chatham is a small, relatively lowkey commercial area serving the residents of North Chatham. The southwest side of Rte. 28 is primarily commercial, and the northeast side is a mixture of commercial and residential uses.
Neighborhood Elements: Post office, convenience store, offices, retail, restaurants, gas station, single family houses and apartments.
Issues: Scattered businesses along highway, post office not centrally located, high speed of traffic, passing zone within neighborhood, hazardous intersection at Stony Hill Rd, limited parking on small commercial lots, low visibility of businesses at Nickerson Corners, no sidewalks or crosswalks, public transportation (Hyannis to Orleans bus), large asphalt expanse at Northport.
Assets: Located on bus route, residential areas within walking distance of center, green area along Rte. 28 At Northport.
Policies/Actions: Encourage mixed use and residential uses within the neighborhood. Improve the focus, compactness and identity of neighborhood to reduce appearance of scattered businesses along Rte. 28. Slow traffic through neighborhood. Link business areas to the residential areas with sidewalks and crosswalks. (LU31)
D. Future land use, public improvements, and the character of development between designated Neighborhoodcenters shall be guided by the following general policies.
1. Commercial land use: Discourage commercial uses between designated Neighborhoodcenters through appropriate zoning district designations and land use regulations, strict regulation of home occupations, and careful management of special permits for expansion of nonconforming uses. (LU32)
2. Residential land use: The predominant land use between Neighborhoodcenters shall be single family residential. Multi family may be permitted in appropriate areas, provided the overall density is maintained. Allow the conversion of existing houses and nonresidential buildings for multifamily use within density limits. Institute site development requirements for multifamily buildings to ensure privacy and amenities for residents. (LU32)
3. Appearance: Continue efforts to improve the appearance of business properties through sign and architectural review. Develop dimensional requirements for multifamily buildings, including density limits, building size, setbacks, and site layout guidelines to ensure consistency with traditional patterns of development. Develop architectural guidelines for new construction and conversions to ensure compatibility with existing development. (LU32)
4. Public Improvements: Provide sidewalk connections with nearby neighborhood centers. Provide street plantings and pedestrian rest areas where appropriate. (LU32)
549 Main Street, Chatham, MA 02633 ph: 5089455100 Chatham Town Office fx: 5089453550
Community Facilities and Services 2. Community Facilities and Services
Overview
In 1996 the Monomoy Capacity Study warned that changes in the population demographics from seasonal to year round would significantly challenge the resources of Cape Cod towns. Chatham has seen significant change in the seasonal demographics since the Monomoy study.
Chatham is now a global destination. Its infrastructure is currently challenged by the need to manage its facilities and services for a winter population of seven thousand and a summer population which swells to thirty to forty thousand (Table 1). In 2000 Chatham had a year round population equivalent of greater than sixteen thousand people.
The Town currently owns and manages 26% of the land area exclusive of roadways. With additional land purchases, the area under management could rise to 31% (Table 2). The Town must manage these lands and their attendant buildings and structures with efficiency despite high variability in population density.
The committee believes that the key to an efficient planning and management effort is information that will allow us to understand the dynamics of our population growth and contraction. The Town needs to accurately determine for each property the number of bedrooms, restaurant seats or other use measurements and the amount of water consumed on each property by calendar quarter. This information will allow us to understand our population demographics.
Only after population demographics are understood, property inventories prepared and uses listed and defined should the Town proceed with the following goals and strategies. The goals which need to be addressed include:
Efficient housing for all government functions, Additional burial and memorial space, Safe pedestrian and vehicular transportation systems, An adequate supply of safe water, Advanced treatment and disposal of wastewater, Economical solid waste disposal, Protection of surface and ground waters.
Goals & Policies 2.1 Goal Town Lands Maintenance and management of town lands to meet the needs of municipal functions, and to include preservation of open space and conservation, consistent with deed restrictions or Town Meeting actions.
Policies
A. Maintain an inventory of town lands, including a file detailing use restrictions, maps, surveys, and deeds for all parcels. (CF1)
B. Develop management guidelines for all town lands. Zoning policies and decisions on the use of town lands shall be consistent with the stated purpose. (CF2)
Purpose
Conservation/Passive Recreation
Purpose: preservation of open space, protection of natural resources, passive recreational uses such as walking, bicycling, picnicking. Structures and paved areas shall be limited to those necessary to protect resources and provide public access and passive recreational use.
Conservation/Passive Recreation Lands 550.62 acres
¹See attendent map for location of properties
²Hardings Beach Marsh acreage is counted under Beaches (228 acres total)
Parks and Recreation Area 167.81 acres
¹See attendent map for location of properties ²Acreage for these facilities is included in General Lands with the Police and Fire Station.
Beaches 828.27 acres .
* Indicates an official beach, facilities provided.
¹See attendent map for location of properties
² Acreage for Forest Beach (73) acres) is counted under Conservation/Passive Recreation
TOTAL RECREATION AND BEACHES: 1546.70 ACRES
Town Landings/Water Access
Purpose: public access to waterways primarily for fishing, shellfishing and recreation. 3
Town Landings/Water Access 13.76 acres
*Designated town landing. Others provide access to the water, but are not designated town landings. ¹See attendent map for location of properties ²Acreage for Goose Pond, Morris Island Dike, and Stage Harbor Point are counted under Conservation/Pass. Recreation. 3Town Landing acreage does not include town rightofway. If a landing contains no land other than road rightofway, no acreage is shown.
General Town Lands
Purpose: General municipal use, including public offices, public facilities and utilities.
General Town Lands 250.20 acres
Cemeteries 38.26 acres
¹See attendent map for location of properties
TOTAL GENERAL LANDS AND CEMETERIES: 288.46 ACRES
GRAND TOTAL ALL TOWN LANDS: 1848.92 ACRES
2.2 Goal Town Buildings Provision of adequate and efficient housing for all town government functions.
A. Consolidate town offices except for field offices (Harbormaster, highway maintenance, etc.) on town property designated under General Town lands. (CF3)
B. Retain campuslike complex of public buildings in Depot Road area, including retention of Main Street School site for town use such as consolidated town offices, community center, police/fire departments and public parking. (CF4)
1. Reduce intensity of uses and buildings surrounding Depot Road School. Consider relocating the community building function to another site such as the Main Street School site.
2. In planning new facilities, carefully consider the value of the front portion of the Main Street School (1924 section) to the heritage and character of the community.
3. If the site involves Veterans Field in the former Main Street School building include public restrooms and a concession stand. C. Retain Annex/Permit site on George Ryder Road for town use and provide parking for bike trail at the Annex site. (CF5)
D. Construct new Police/Fire Department Facilities on a site/s designated under General Town Lands. Consider use of the present site if enlarged by the relocation of the community building function. (CF6)
E. Construct a new community center. Include space and services to meet the needs of all segments of the Chatham population. Consider the inclusion of a community swimming pool. (CF7)
F. Institute a phased program for the construction of environmentally friendly public restrooms at the following locations: (CF8)
1. Town Hall 2. West end of Main Street (downtown) 3. Veterans’ Field 4. Old Mill Boatyard 5. Ridgevale Beach 6. School House Pond 7 Cockle Cove Beach 8. Hardings Beach (2nd restroom) 9. Oyster Pond
G. Evaluate maintenance needs for all town buildings. Include in the program improvements to meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. (CF9)
2.3 Goal Cemeteries Provide adequate burial and memorial space to meet needs through the year 2020.
A. Develop a program for meeting the projected needs for cemetery plots with consideration of the expansion of Union Cemetery and South Chatham Cemetery. Identify additional expansion land near downtown, and space saving layouts and methods. (CF10)
B. Perform an analysis of income vs operation costs for town cemeteries. Consider fee adjustments to better meet long term maintenance needs. (CF11)
C. Develop a maintenance and improvement program for cemeteries and designate a town department for carrying out the program. (CF12)
2.4 Goal Transportation Provision of a safe and functional townwide transportation system. A. Work with the state Highway Department to include improvements proposed by the town in the reconstruction of Rte. 28. (CF13)
1. Traffic signal installation and intersection reconfiguration Rte. 137.
2. Safety improvements at George Ryder Rd., Barn Hill Rd., Old Queen Anne, Crowell Rd., the rotary, and Stony Hill Rd.
3. Addition of bus stop shelters at neighborhood centers: South Chatham, West Chatham, The Cornfield, Crowell Rd., Veterans Field, and North Chatham.
4. Vehicular access control modifications at commercial properties to meet local, state, and regional guidelines.
5. Sidewalks meeting Americans with Disabilities Act requirements on both sides of Rte. 28 within neighborhood centers. Where possible, maintain a grassed buffer between the sidewalk and the roadway.
6. Accommodations for bicycles.
7. Drainage improvements.
8. Addition of pedestrian level lighting, benches and trees.
9. Enlargement of culverts at the Muddy River, the Herring Run and Frostfish Creek consistent with Comprehensive Wastewater Plan.
B. Improve vehicular safety in the Town. (CF14)
1. Use signs to encourage visitors to enter town via Rte. 137 and Rte. 28 rather than Old Queen Anne.
2. Reconfigure Stepping Stone Road/Queen Anne Road/Wilfred Road intersection.
3. Improve safety at Old Queen Anne Road and George Ryder Road.
C. Improve pedestrian safety and comfort by developing the following programs. (CF15)
1. A systematic program to construct sidewalks on major roadways in Chatham, including roadways in the vicinity of schools, neighborhood centers, beaches and parks and improving shoulders for pedestrian use where sidewalk construction is not feasible.
2. Continue development of a townwide network of walking trails through and connecting town recreation and conservation lands. 3. Develop downtown crosswalk improvements, seats, and amenities.
D. Develop bicycle routes and trails extending from the Cape Cod Rail Trail and serving commercial and recreational areas and continue efforts to extend the Rail Trail to form a loop back to the Trail in Brewster or Orleans. Develop parking areas for bicycles and cars in commercial, recreational, and trail access areas. (CF16)
E. Install pedestrian level street lighting in all neighborhood centers and identify other high activity areas needing lighting for pedestrians. (CF17)
F. Increase availability of public parking through some or all of the methods listed below. (CF18)
1. Use Main St. School site as a public parking area until a new use is designated.
2. Work with property owners to expand and improve parking.
3. Consider time limits on downtown parking spaces.
4. Develop public parking on the former Water Department property.
5. Develop a map of downtown showing public parking areas; distribute at Welcome Center and install directional signs for public parking.
G. Work with the Regional Transit Authority to improve coordination of existing public transportation services. (CF19)
2.5 Goal Public Water Provision of an adequate supply of clean, safe water to meet needs through 2020.
A. Establish a population sustainability goal for water use through 2020. (CF20)
B. Record water usage by parcel and watershed and integrate into GIS database. This will allow continued update of population demand for water and wastewater management. (CF21)
C. Ensure that an adequate supply of public water is provided to meet needs for the next 20 year period, based on a minimum level of service of 75 gallons per person per day. (CF22)
D. Continue to meet state and federal requirements for system wide water pressure, fire fighting capacity and reserve capacity. (CF23)
E. Water Department must approve water systems in new subdivisions and ensure that new development covers the cost of expansion. (CF24) 2.6 Goal Wastewater Treatment Facilities Provision of an environmentally and economically sound wastewater collection, treatment and disposal system(s) commensurate with the specific wastewater needs of each town watershed through 2020.
A. Develop a wastewater nitrogen sustainability goal for 2020. (CF25)
B. Complete the townwide Wastewater Management Plan by the end of 2005. (CF26)
1. Determine areas where onsite disposal systems are not functioning properly or are contributing nitrogen loads at levels detrimental to natural resources. Identify options and prioritize recommendations for treating wastewater in identified problem areas, including regulatory changes and public and private treatment facility construction.
2. Carry out a public information and public participation process during preparation of the Plan to ensure public understanding and support of the Plan..
C. Implement the recommendations of Wastewater Management Plan. (CF27)
2.7 Goal Solid Waste Management Provide an efficient and economical system of solid waste disposal.
A. Expand recycling program to reduce the cost of solid waste disposal. (CF28)
1. Encourage recycling by private solid waste collection companies.
2. Continue and expand public education efforts to encourage increased recycling, especially at rental properties.
B. Minimize the impacts of the transfer station on the surrounding neighborhood. (CF29)
2.8 Goal Stormwater Facilities Protect surface and groundwater water from stormwater pollution from public buildings, roofs, parking areas and roadways.
A. Continue the policy of upgrading catch basins on town roadways during repaving and reconstruction projects in order to reduce stormwater pollutants reaching the towns ponds, streams, and groundwater. (CF30)
B. Continue the policy of requiring private properties to provide treatment and onsite infiltration to reduce stormwater volumes reaching stormwater systems in town roads or wetlands. (CF31)
C. Use best management practices, such as installation of leaching basins for roof drainage on all town buildings during new construction or major renovations. (CF32)
Table 1 Estimated Wastewater Volumes and Populations (1) Used monthly pumping as published in Town annual reports. (2) Irrigation allocated Mid May to Mid October. (3) Private well pumpage based on 1997 Town Needs Assessment Report (N.A.R.) assumptions. (4) Assumed 55 gallons per day per person wastewater generation. (5) Yearly total population estimates more reliable than monthly figures. (6) Population = Wastewater (gal) 55 gal/day/person
Table 2 Town and Privately Owned Acreage*
*Data as of 1 October 2002
549 Main Street, Chatham, MA 02633 ph: 5089455100 Chatham Town Office fx: 5089453550
Natural Resources DRAFT 03/15/03 3. Natural Resources
Overview
The mainland is described by Champlain as very hilly. It was well wooded although in places the natives had made considerable clearings, where they cultivated corn and other cereals. There were many walnut trees, oaks and cedars, but few pines. Wild grape vines were common, and beach plum bushes furnished an abundance of fruit “All the harbors, bays and coasts,” writes Champlain, “are filled with every variety of fish. There are also many shellfish of various sorts, principally oysters. Game birds are very plenty.”
Samuel de Champlain as quoted by E.C. Smith A History of Chatham, Massachusetts, p.11
From the early 1600 description of Chatham it is clear that humans have significantly impacted the natural environment. Trees have been cut, the land cleared for farming, salt marshes have become cranberry bogs. Hunting and fishing villages were established to take advantage of abundant game birds and sea resources. Much of the environment was altered.
Natural coastline alteration still is evolving. Eroding bluffs have been reinforced, groins have been built to stall the natural migration of beaches. Harbors continue to be dredged to clear constantly shifting, swiftly moving channels.
Coastal resources attracted visitors initially as tourists. Some returned. Houses were built consuming land, destroying forests squeezing out wildlife by the destruction and fragmentation of upland habitat and generally affecting water quality by human waste. Street runoff, fertilizers and the reduced circulation of estuaries due to culverting resulted in pond closures and eutrophication. Natural drainage patterns have been altered by roadways. Today “buildout” or development of all parcels of land in town (with the exception of legally protected and conservation lands) is in the foreseeable future.
Although the town has a small sewer system and wastewater treatment plant, nitrogen is accumulating in groundwater primarily from septic systems. Nitrogen has become a serious threat to our surface water particularly to the estuaries and salt ponds so nitrogen sensitive.
Despite the tremendous impact humans have had, Chatham’s natural systems are largely healthy and have successfully adapted and readapted to changing conditions. Given their own resilience and some positive intervention, our resources are far from doomed. Chatham still has abundant shellfish; our potable water resources are projected to remain within nitrate guidelines except under extreme scenarios and are constantly monitored; reduction of phosphates in detergents have significantly reduced the introduction of the nutrients into freshwater systems; dwindling animal species are showing a comeback with cooperative habitat management. As pressures continue on our natural environment, it is more important than ever to protect our natural resources from negative and unnecessary alteration and to identify measures that can be taken to counter and undo damage where we can. Maintaining the high quality of Chatham’s natural assets is vital to the character and economic future of the town.
Policies Goals and Implementation
Longterm objective: To preserve and protect, and where possible, to enhance, the quality of Chatham’s unique natural resources for the benefit of all current residents and visitors, and for generations to come. Recognizing the fragile nature of our local ecological system and the pressures that are imposed on it by continuing growth in population density, growth in residential and commercial developments, increasing intensity of recreational use of both coastal and inland waterways, and decreasing acreage of undeveloped open land to sustain wildlife habitat, a nevertheless important second objective is to enhance access and enjoyment of those resources by the public at large. This objective must be accomplished in ways that minimize the potential negative impact on these precious resources.
Policy: Consistent with these longterm strategic natural resource protection objectives it shall be the policy of the Town of Chatham that:
All future development efforts within the town, including residential, commercial, and municipal, and the infrastructure required to support such developments, be designed, implemented and managed in a way that will maintain the Town’s natural resources.
To be consistent with the carrying capacity of the Town’s natural resources, all projects involving new or expanded access to, and increased or more intensive use of its natural resources (as enumerated in this plan) shall include an assessment of the resulting impact on those resources and include steps to minimize any adverse impact that might result before being approved.
Future growth and development projects be encouraged to locate away from sensitive natural resource areas to maintain and enhance wildlife habitat.
Additional regulations and bylaw revisions be used to improve the protection and preservation of land areas adjacent to coastal and inland waters.
Protect natural resources by acquiring or securing development rights to land for conservation in keeping with the Regional Policy Plan’s goal of protecting at least 50% of the remaining developable land in Chatham.
3.1 Goal Protecting the quality of our air and water resources.
While air quality in Chatham is not currently considered to be a problem, the quality of our water resources is of strategic and vital importance, since so much of the economic and social fabric of the community is dependent in one way or another on our water resources. Monitoring and improving the quality of our groundwater, our coastal in inland waters and protecting them from adverse impacts that often result from population pressure is one of the most important goals of the community. To achieve this goal, the following actions are planned:
Water Quality Protection
Complete and adopt the Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan as expeditiously as possible and move forward with implementing its recommendations, and undertake the following associated actions: (NR1)
Designate nitrogen sensitive areas as appropriate, through the processes outlined in state environmental and Chatham Board of Health regulations. (NR2)
Support research, evaluation, and approval of alternative septic system technology aimed at nutrient reduction (nitrogen and phosphorus), especially on systems appropriate for seasonal use. (NR3)
Reduce the nitrogen load to impacted embayments or freshwater bodies through the purchase, or seek donation, of land. Target for public purchase lands on which development would adversely impact resources. (NR4)
Educate the public to the benefits of, and encourage the use of, native, low maintenance landscaping to minimize the use of fertilizers. (NR5)
Move forward with integration of Assessors, Water, and septic system data within the town Geographic Information System (GIS) to allow comprehensive management of nitrogen impacts. (NR6)
Require where feasible that new and replacement septic system disposal areas be located at least 300 feet from the high water line of freshwater ponds, streams and wetlands. (NR7)
Update the inventory and elevation data for the town’s numbered conservancy districts, and review and update the information on a regular basis and incorporate it into the town’s Geographic Information System (GIS). (NR8)
Continue the town’s Coastal Water Nutrient Monitoring Program and freshwater pond monitoring programs to ensure the availability of sound scientific data upon which to evaluate the condition of Chatham’s waters and to guide management decisions. (NR9)
Regularly update data associated with inland wetlands which serve as the basis for environmental regulation. (NR10)
Continue efforts, including land acquisition, to protect the watersheds of public wells from overdevelopment and restrict landuse to those with minimal threat to groundwater quality. (NR11)
Institute a public education effort aimed at water conservation. (NR12)
Develop a Drought Management Plan to improve the effectiveness of the water use restriction ordinance now in place. Apply use restrictions to private wells. Require rain shut off devices on all automatic irrigation systems (with possible agricultural exemptions). (NR13)
Storm Water
Continue to employ appropriate stormwater Best Management Practices (BMP)(to reduce runoff into sensitive areas) for all town properties. (NR14)
Continue the implementation of the recommendations of the Oyster Pond Stormwater Management Study including: (NR15)
The design and installation of stormwater BMPs for those areas under town responsibility. (NR15)
Continue working with Massachusetts Highway to expedite the correction of stormwater problems under its jurisdiction. (NR15)
Continue to work with Massachusetts Highway to address stormwater problems from state highways in an expeditious manner. (NR16)
Continue to seek grant funding to offset town costs to implement stormwater management programs. (NR17)
For stormwater management purposes, amend the Zoning Bylaw, subdivision regulations, and other development regulations as necessary to require the following at the time of subdivision or site plan approval: (NR18)
A written operation and maintenance plan including the designation of responsible party for stormwater management systems. (NR18)
The posting of a bond, or other appropriate means, to ensure the longterm maintenance, and replacement if needed, of stormwater management systems. (NR18)
Control and mitigation of the impacts of stormwater runoff both during and after construction. (NR18)
Prohibition of the connection of privately owned drainage systems into any publicly controlled system. (NR18)
Appropriate testing and engineering for all proposed stormwater management systems. (NR18)
Encouragement of the use of low maintenance non invasive plant varieties in landscaping. (NR18)
Prohibition of any new direct discharge(s) of untreated stormwater into any fresh or marine surface water or wetland. (NR18)
Encouragement of the use of alternative stormwater systems that can be incorporated into the site landscaping such as drainage swales and turf pavers. (NR18)
Minimization of the amount of impervious surface on sites and maintain the maximum amount of undisturbed pre development vegetation. (NR18) Require that undisturbed natural buffer strips be maintained around all marine water resource area and freshwater resource areas to minimize the impacts of surface runoff. (NR18)
Coastal Resources
Discourage the construction of revetments and other “hard” coastal protection structures unless “soft” solutions such as beach nourishment have been found to be ineffective. In cases where a “hard” structure is determined to be necessary, require that the beach is maintained in front of the structure to allow public passage along the shore whenever practical. (NR19)
2. In cases where “hard” structures have been permitted and constructed in the past, the Conservation Commission will continue to address the issue of renourishment to restore rights under State law for public passage for fishing and fowling. Along Chatham Harbor, revetments were constructed after the 1987 break in the barrier beach. When the barrier beach restores itself and beaches in front of revetments return, public rights for passage must be maintained. (See Environmental Impact Report entitled, “Phase I Draft Environmental Impact Report Shore Protection Structures Aunt Lydia’s Cove to Beach and Tennis Club Chatham, MA,” dated January 1993.) (NR20)
3. Work with property owners in the Little Beach area to permit the subterranean wall proposed by the Coastal Erosion Advisory Committee’s study (Phase II) should protection become necessary because of changes in the configuration of South Beach. (NR21)
4. Complete the management plan for North and South beaches to provide general guidelines for balancing protection of natural resources with recreational, municipal and private property use. (NR22)
5. Carry out the proposed nourishment of Cockle Cove beach to restore the beach and shoreline habitat and to maintain the beach for public use. (NR23)
6. Support the update of the Stage Harbor Management Plan and expand its scope to cover areas along Nantucket Sound and The Southway (area between South Beach and Monomoy) and the area between Outermost Harbor and Minister’s Point (where it joins the Pleasant Bay Management Plan). (NR24)
7. Continue the town’s active participation in the Pleasant Bay Alliance and implement recommendations of the Alliance, pursuant to the Pleasant Bay Management Plan, to the extent that they are consistent with Chatham’s amended plans and policies. (NR25)
8. Develop policies for coastal structures in areas not presently covered in a harbor management plan and require reviews for consistency with these policies prior to the issuance of any special permit or state permit for such structures. (NR26)
9. Continue the town’s participation in the National Flood Insurance Program and Community Rating System. (NR27)
10. In promulgating development regulations and reviews, take into account the impacts of sea level rise and erosion in evaluating development proposals and in revising and updating applicable town policies, regulations and bylaws. (NR28)
Shellfish Resources Expand the Town’s shellfish propagation programs. (NR29)
Update the existing facilities housing the upwelling system for the shellfish propagation program to ensure the facilities are adequate to maintain the program in the longterm. (NR30)
Continue efforts at coastal and estuary water quality protection and improvement to ensure the longterm viability of the local shellfish industry. (NR31)
3.2 Goal Protection of vegetation and wildlife habitat
To protect the health and vitality of our inland vegetation and wildlife habitat areas, Chatham shall develop and strengthen current regulations by:
1. Prohibiting the clearing and grading of land without a site plan approval or, in the case of single family houses, without a building permit and requiring measures to protect wildlife habitat and to control runoff during and after construction. (NR32)
2. Requiring the consideration of habitat and tree preservation in development planning and that information on topography and vegetation particularly mature trees be required at the time of application for site plan approval and, in cases where site plan approval is not required, at the time of application for a building permit. (NR33)
3. Developing a bylaw to include specific procedures to preserve trees during construction, such as fencing around the tree’s root zone to prevent compaction, heavy mulching, and pruning of damaged limbs. When removal of valuable trees is being proposed, the property owner be encouraged to plant replacement trees where appropriate. (NR34)
B. Undertake the following actions by:
1. Developing an educational program that will provide Chatham property owners with information on the control of insects and on indigenous plants that will provide wildlife food sources and habitat. (NR35)
2. Developing a management program for town conservation lands to include measures to enhance plant and habitat diversity, control invasive plants and insect infestation. (See Town Conservation Lands Management section of this element). (NR36)
3. Recommending native species to be sold by local nurseries for use by residential and business property owners. (NR37)
4. Identifying and acquiring where possible lands which are contiguous with or provide connections between other conservation areas to preserve wildlife habitat and prevent further fragmentation of undeveloped areas. (NR38) 5. Developing a comprehensive inventory of shade and other ornamental trees along Route 28, and certain areas (downtown Main St., Old Village, etc.), and developing recommendations for maintenance, areas for tree planting, desirable species types, and preservation mechanisms. This can be coordinated with Friends of Trees’ data (all of their trees are tagged and listed). (NR39)
6. Exploring the conversion of abandoned cranberry bogs to a true wetlands function in cooperation with private landowners. (NR40) .
3.3 Goal Conservation Land Management for the protection of natural resources on town lands.
All lands designated under this plan as Conservation/Passive Recreation lands and all lands purchased or donated for conservation shall be monitored by the Conservation Commission. The Commission shall make recommendations as deemed necessary for management of these lands in keeping with the provisions of this plan. (NR42)
The Conservation Commission will develop a comprehensive plan for the management of all lands purchased or donated to the Town for conservation. The plan will include:
Measures to preserve and protect natural resources while allowing passive recreational use in keeping with the Natural Resources and the Open Space and Recreational Elements of this plan. (NR43)
2. An assessment and management program for vegetation including the control and eradication of invasive plants, and wildlife habitat. (NR44)
Maintenance, upgrade and extension of pedestrian trails, publication of trail maps, an annual maintenance program for cleanup and rectifying damage from misuse, measures for preventing misuse. (NR45)
Addition of amenities such as benches, signage, and parking areas. (NR46)
Appropriate funds should be budgeted to provide for protection of the natural resources in these areas, and the passive recreational use of our conservation lands. (NR47)
A 5 year program, updated annually, for actions to carry out the plan with cost estimates for inclusion in requests for funds in the town’s capital program and annual budget. (NR48) The Town will appropriate funds to investigate conservation land deeds of acquisition and restrictions, if any, and to develop and implement the Conservation Management plan. (NR49)
549 Main Street, Chatham, MA 02633 ph: 5089455100 Chatham Town Office fx: 5089453550
Open Space and Recreation 4. Open Space and Recreation
Chatham’s dramatic beaches and quiet harbors began attracting summer visitors in the late 1800s. The town soon became a Mecca, not so much for the day tourist, but for families who returned year after year, often purchasing their own summer houses. Today, approximately half of the houses are used only seasonally. In the summer, the town’s population swells to five to six times its yearround number with seasonal residents, occupants of rental houses and hotel and motel rooms as well as day tourists. Many of those who summered here returned to Chatham for their retirement.
Chatham has abundant resources for coastal recreation with over 1,000 acres of public ocean beaches, not including Monomoy Island, and over 30 town landings and public access points. Chatham Harbor, Pleasant Bay, Stage Harbor, the Oyster River and Oyster Pond, the Mill Ponds, Nantucket Sound, and several smaller coastal inlets provide scenic enjoyment and recreational opportunities. Inland recreational resources are also available but are less well known. The town has seven great ponds, three with usable public access, but only one with a public beach. Trails on the town’s 600 acres of open lands are discontinuous, unmarked and not maintained. After long years of planning, a bike trail is under construction. The town has a handful of public parks which are small in size and limited in facilities. Active recreational facilities require attention. The community building, Veterans Field, the nearby little league field and tennis courts and playgrounds, Volunteer Park and Seaside Links comprise the only townowned recreation facilities although school facilities are available on a limited basis for public use. The 1985 Open Space and Recreation Plan emphasized open space. In the late 1980s, the town carried out the Plan’s recommendations regarding open space and watershed protection with the purchase of an additional 155 acres of open land and in 2000 purchased the former RCA/MCI properties on Nantucket Sound and Ryders Cove to add another 17 acres with both salt and fresh water frontage. The focus now turns to upgrading and expanding active recreational facilities. A questionnaire survey in 1995 and a public forum in 1996 showed support for walking trails and outdoor exercise areas, a public swimming pool, indoor exercise and playing courts, and bike trails. In a 2002 survey, respondents have expressed the need for a community center located in the Main Street School for the use of citizens of all generations.
The purpose of this section is to identify the recreational facilities now in the town and to suggest ways to maintain open spaces while providing townspeople and visitors with seasonal and yearround active and passive recreational opportunities.
4.1 Goal High quality recreational facilities, including beaches, parks, active and passive recreation facilities, and adequate open space to meet the needs and desires of Chatham residents and visitors.
Town owned lands are classified for future use in the Community Facilities Element. Lands classified for recreation are as follows. Map numbers refer to the Map of Town Owned Lands.
Conservation/Passive Recreation Lands 550.62 acres * Purchased with state SelfHelp funds for conservation.
¹ Hardings Beach Marsh acreage is counted under Beaches (228 acres total) Park and Active Recreation Lands 167.81 Acres
¹Acreage for these facilities is included in General Lands with the Police and Fire Station.
Beaches 828.27 Acres * Indicates an official beach ¹ Acreage for Forest Beach (73 acres) is counted under Conservation/Passive Recreation
Total Open Space, Recreation and Beaches 1546.70 Acres
Town Landings and Water Access
Note: Town Landing acreage does not include town rightofway. If a landing contains no land other than road rightof way, no acreage is shown.
Key Facilities those landings or access points which provide major access to a coastal water body and are heavily used. (See policies under “Town Landings” below.)
* Leased Land
Secondary Facilities those landings or access points which provide additional access to major waterways or primary access to embayments.
* Acreage counted with Conservation/Passive Recreation lands. **Acreage counted with Beaches.
Low Usage Landings those landings whose utility is limited because of physical problems or constraints Pedestrian Access Only footpaths to the water or landings which are severely restricted because of physical problems or constraints.
A. General Policies
1. Maintain parking areas unpaved except at major facilities. (OP1)
2. Keep signage to a minimum while devising tasteful, standard signage for all town landings and other recreation area. (OP2)
3. Maintain natural habitats where possible while combating invasive vegetation. (OP3)
4. Provide for periodic maintenance and upgrading of all town recreational facilities. (OP4)
5. Interfere with Nature as little as possible while keeping in mind needs of townspeople and visitors. (OP5)
B. Open Space and Conservation
1. The use of lands classified as “open space and conservation” is limited to passive recreation such as walking, biking, swimming, and picnicking. Structures and paved areas shall be limited to those necessary to protect resources and provide public access and passive recreational use. (See also Natural Resources section for information on the management and protection of natural resources on conservation lands.) (OP6)
2. Allow passive recreational use of town open space and conservation lands, including walking, picnicking, boat launching and boating, fishing, and other activities which are compatible with preservation of the land’s natural resources. (OP7) 3. Develop a system of trails on conservation lands for public use and provide trail maps and information on protection of natural resources to the public. Utilize existing trails as the basis for the system and develop extensions and links to other public trails. Pursue partnerships with private organizations, such as the Chatham Conservation Foundation, on development of the trail system. (OP8)
4. Allow limited facilities to support the enjoyment of conservation lands, such as small, unpaved parking areas and access roads, small boat launching facilities, fishing docks, benches, and picnic facilities in keeping with the management program for the property. (OP9)
5. Make necessary provisions for passive recreational use of the upland portion of the Forest Beach Conservation area. (OP10)
C. Lands classified for parks and active recreation are to be upgraded to provide additional use, while maintaining a “park like” character.
1. Make provision for restrooms, locker facilities and showers for teams using Veterans Field. (OP11)
2. Provide public restrooms in the Depot Road area to serve the playground and Veterans’ Field. (OP12)
3. Strive to maintain and protect Chase, Kate Gould, Sears, Nickerson Parks as open space parks. (OP13)
4. Provide additional recreational facilities at Volunteer Park including picnic tables, restrooms, playing field irrigation, and a connection to the Bike Trail. (OP14)
5. Insure completion of the Chatham extension of the Cape Cod Bike Trail to the Depot Road area and provide for the maintenance of the trail. (OP15)
6. Operate Seaside Links as a town managed 9 hole golf course upon expiration of the concessionaires contract. (OP16)
7. Consider acquiring or trading property with Chatham Bars Inn to gain a suitable site or building for a Pro Shop/Starter’s cabin, snack bar and storage facility. (OP17)
8. Construct a park and an active sports complex using the landfill cap at the Transfer Facility, Lower Goose Pond property and Volunteer Park for such facilities as; a picnic area, possible future skateboard park, street hockey/ice rink, Parcourse, a driving range and a dog walking park. (OP18)
9. Consider development of a revenue producing Town managed golf course/driving range on Town owned land.
D. Create a Community Center
1. Expand the community center facilities, preferably in the Depot Road area, through renovation of the Main Street School or new construction, with ample multipurpose rooms to meet the needs of all segments of the population. (OP19)
2. Consider inclusion of a swimming pool in plans for the community center. (OP20) E. Upgrade the town’s beaches in terms of access and usage facilities.
1. Monitor the conditions at Lighthouse Beach to explore the possibility of future conversion to an official beach with restrooms and lifeguards. (OP21)
2. Provide permanent public restrooms at all official town beaches and a second set of restrooms at Hardings Beach. (OP22)
3. Complete and execute a plan which will restore the beach at Cockle Cove and protect Ridgevale Beach for the future. (OP23)
4. Meet increasing popularity of beaches staffed with lifeguards through alternative means of public transportation such as shuttle buses, rather than expanding parking. (OP24)
5. Adjust the level of Lifeguard compensation to attract enough staff to adequately patrol town beaches. (OP25)
6. Maintain the lifeguard protected beach at Schoolhouse Pond. (OP26)
7. Maintain the lifeguard protected beach at Oyster Pond. Build restroom and changing facilities there. (OP27)
F. Increase Access to Freshwater Ponds
1. Provide public access to all great ponds through improvements to town lands or through land acquisition. Great ponds: Emery Pond, Goose Pond, Lover’s Lake, Mill Pond (West Chatham), Schoolhouse Pond, Stillwater Pond and White Pond. Provide adequate supervision to minimize impact on surrounding neighborhood and natural resources. (OP28)
2. Establish White Pond Landing as a freshwater swimming area with limited improvements to provide access and preserve the quiet nature of the area. Expand the unpaved parking to accommodate a maximum of 20 vehicles. Expand the beach to obtain 50 yards of water access. (OP29)
3. Establish swimming and boating areas on newly acquired land on Stillwater Pond and Lovers Lake using White Pond as a model. (OP30)
G. Upgrade town landings and salt water access.
1. Usage and improvements to town landings shall be in keeping with their classification and shall be guided by the policies of this plan, including the following:
a. Landing classified as key facilities under this plan shall be considered major points for fishing and public access to the water for residents and visitors. Facilities such as boat ramps, docks, parking areas, restrooms, and other fishing and recreational support facilities shall be considered appropriate and desirable. Upgrades and expansions of these landings shall be undertaken to accommodate fishing and recreation, provided such plans mitigate to the extent possible the impacts on surrounding neighborhoods. (OP31) b. The secondary landings shall be considered as backup facilities, to supplement key facilities. Facilities such as docks, boat ramps, parking areas, restrooms, and other fishing and recreational support facilities shall be provided as appropriate, given the land area and location of the landing. Upgrades or expansions of such landings shall be undertaken with careful consideration of the impacts to surrounding neighborhoods. (OP32)
c. Low usage landings shall be considered constrained facilities which provide pedestrian and limited vehicle access. Land acquisition to expand such landings shall be encouraged. Upgrades to facilities should be undertaken with careful consideration of the impacts to surrounding neighborhoods. Parking shall be provided where feasible. (OP33)
d. Pedestrian access only landings shall be considered very limited in use. Limited parking and dropoff areas shall be provided where feasible. Facilities at these landings shall be limited to those necessary to allow public access to the water for pedestrians. (OP34)
2. Restore public access to the extent possible at landings along Chatham Harbor.
a. Build a stairway over the revetment for pedestrians on Holway Street. (OP35)
b. Allow pedestrian usage of Water Street Extension and Mistover Lane for viewing, regardless of the lack of beach access. (OP36)
c. Explore having the Town, by itself or together with other local conservation/preservation organizations, acquire the beach between Andrew Harding’s Lane and Holway Street for continuing public use. (OP37)
d. Explore options for increasing parking capacity at the Cow Yard. (OP38)
e. An historical pathway exists between Morris Island Road and Chatham Harbor which provides access to the stretch of beach between Outermost Marine Harbor inlet and the south tip of Morris Island. The Town should seek to clarify and confirm its right of access and further explore the possibility of acquiring the land (some 22 acres) from the Association. (OP39)
f. Explore the acquisition of land at Battlefield Landing to allow for parking along the road. (OP40)
g. Consider the purchase of Bridge Street Landing to insure future public access. (OP41)
h. Explore options for adding public access points for the launching of small boats on Muddy Creek. Petition the state to alleviate the congestion in the culvert under Rte. 28 to provide a constant water flow between Muddy Creek and Little Pleasant Bay. (OP42)
i. Include provision for access and use by the disabled in any plans for town landing improvements. (OP43)
3. Provide boat launching facilities on all major waterways to serve both residents and visitors.
a. On newly acquired land adjacent to Ryder’s Cove Landing, construct a public parking area for vehicles and boat trailers and public restrooms. (OP44) b. Maintain Ryder’s Cove and Barn Hill Road landings for general public use. (OP45)
c. Add a dock adjacent to the ramp at Crow’s Pond and improve the parking area. (OP46)
d. Expand parking areas at key facilities and secondary facilities which serve as alternatives to key facilities. (OP47)
4. Maintain the character of lands.
a. Maintain parking areas unpaved except at major facilities. (OP48)
b. Keep signage to a minimum and devise tasteful, standard signage for marking landings. (OP49)
c. Continue removal of invasive vegetation while maintain natural habitats at Ryder’s Cove Overlook and other landings. (OP50)
5. Allow for and manage multiple uses at landings, particularly key facilities.
a. Maintain Old Mill Boatyard parking for residents only, but consider a shuttle service to allow for usage by non residents. (OP51) b. Develop management policies for uses at landings, particularly at Old Mill Boatyard and the Fish Pier, giving priority to fishing uses and general public access over recreational business or specific user group use. (OP52)
6. Provide for regular maintenance and upgrades to town landings.
a. Maintain access channels at landings, particularly the Fish Pier. (OP53)
b. Establish an annual maintenance fund for small repairs, improvements and clean up of landings. (OP54)
H. Public Information
1. Mark all town landings and access points with clear and consistent signage. (OP55)
2. Ensure that landings and access points are shown on maps available to the public. (OP56)
3. Print rules and regulations pertaining to the use of town landings on maps and brochures. (OP57)
549 Main Street, Chatham, MA 02633 ph: 5089455100 Chatham Town Office fx: 5089453550
Historic Preservation and Community Character
DRAFT 03/15/03 5. Historic Preservation and Community Character
Overview
Sometimes it seems that the pull for a strong local economy conflicts with the desire to preserve the town’s character. In fact, because two of this economy’s strongest elements are its maritime industries and the people the town attracts, preservation of our natural resources is at the heart of assuring a strong economy. Because community character, natural resources and economic health are so interdependent, an increased commitment to the preservation of our natural assets is our best public policy.
Friends of Chatham Waterways
As Chatham has evolved from a scattered settlement of English farmers and fishermen in the late 1600s to the haven for retirees and “destination” for tourists that it is almost 350 years later, it has somehow managed to maintain an amazing degree of its historic integrity. Community character is hard to define, but it is nourished by what we see around us, the beautiful vistas and the sites, buildings and structures that define Chatham and link us to our history. We have much to preserve and to lose.
How to save the character of Chatham without trying to freeze the town into a museum is the biggest challenge that faces us today. Change has come slowly here, but the pace is picking up. Treasured elements of community character have survived through luck and love. The town’s geographic isolation, Yankee conservatism, and a strong conservation ethic have combined for years to retard the devastation of community character that has occurred in so many places.
Community character is fragile. Other towns have seen it virtually disappear. Zoning laws, the Historic Business District Commission, the Historical Commission, the Conservation Commission, private organizations and vigilant citizens provide some protection. But the modern trend to “max out” to push up and out, to fill in open space with more homes and shops, to tear down the old, to exploit every loophole in the law, is a major threat.
The purpose of this section is to identify those elements of community character which are threatened and to identify ways in which we can provide protection so that our present does not destroy our past and compromise our future.
Goals & Policies
5.1 Goal Preservation and enhancement of the historical and cultural assets which are central to Chatham’s heritage and character.
Policies
Encourage traditional patterns of development and compatibility with existing architecture.
1. Maintain and encourage traditional development patterns in the neighborhood centers designated under this Plan. (See Land Use Element.)
Amend bylaws and development guidelines (HP1) for Planning Board and other development review agencies to promote traditional village characteristics and low impact development in neighborhood centers including:
Site development designed for the comfort, safety and convenience of pedestrians.
Reduction of the dominance of the automobile through such measures as side or rear parking, landscaping, screening, access control, shared parking, and restrictions on uses which promote automobile traffic.
Buildings with characteristics such as scale, configuration and relationship to each other and the street which are compatible with surrounding development and with Cape Cod traditions.
A mix of uses traditional in New England villages, including small scale retail, public buildings, churches, schools, institutions, and residences.
Compact residential development including apartments and congregate living within the neighborhood centers and within close proximity.
Discourage the proliferation of businesses between neighborhood centers designated under this Plan. (See Land Use Element.)
Undertake public improvements in neighborhood centers to provide public greens and gathering areas, sidewalks, lighting, safe pedestrian crossings, access to public transportation, street furniture and shade trees.
Townwide: Encourage development and redevelopment in keeping with the town’s traditions and character. Amend bylaws to allow traditional development patterns such as cluster development and mixed use development where appropriate. (HP2)
Consider zoning incentives, tax abatements and other mechanisms to encourage development and reconstruction that is compatible with existing and traditional patterns. (HP3)
Neighborhoods: Protect historic resources and the character of unique neighborhoods and streetscapes. (HP4)
Identify neighborhoods and streetscapes which are important to the preservation of Chatham’s character. (See “The Historical Properties Survey” prepared by the Chatham Historical Commission.)
Identify, quantify and describe the characteristics of these neighborhoods and streetscapes, such characteristics to include building size, mass, setbacks, relationship to other buildings and the street.
Incorporate identified characteristics into guidelines and bylaws pertaining to the review of development in specific neighborhoods. (HP5)
Consider establishing local historic, critical planning concern, conservation and design overlay districts for the preservation of the character neighborhoods and streetscapes.
Encourage the formation of neighborhood associations to preserve the character of individual neighborhoods.
Explore options to provide design review for commercial development outside of the Historic Business District.
Protect and enhance the traditional rural character and scenic qualities of roadways.
Amend bylaws to require consideration of the impact of development and redevelopment on views and vistas in site plan and special permit application reviews. (HP6)
Explore mechanisms for preserving and restoring water views from public roads in residential area. (HP7)
Consider a bylaw to require review of roadway reconstruction plans to preserve rural characteristics by limiting roadway width, straightening and protecting and enhancing roadside vegetation, particularly trees. (HP8)
Include parcels of land along major roadways on priority lists and encourage their acquisition by the Land Bank or other public and private entities for the purpose of preserving open space. (HP9) Maintain and reopen views on town properties where unmanaged vegetation has or threatens to obscure views; work with private property owners to promote similar efforts.
Strengthen development review to address the goal of this section to preserve and enhance the historical and cultural assets which are central to Chatham’s heritage and character.
1. Strengthen consistency, coordination and cooperation among entities involved with historic preservation and development review. (HP10)
Continue efforts of the Community Development Department to provide streamlining and coordination mechanisms among town departments and agencies in regard to development affecting historic and scenic resources. (HP11)
Analyze existing development regulations and preservation mechanisms to ensure consistency and eliminate potential conflicts which undermine preservation efforts. (HP12)
Improve the function of the Historic Business District Commission. (HP13)
Revise written guidelines for development within the Historic Business District for use by developers in designing projects and by the HBDC in reviewing applications.
Clarify the powers and composition of the Commission.
Provide staff assistance to the Commission in reviewing applications and developing conditions for approval.
Require public notice for hearings on alterations to or demolition of buildings within the District.
Provide educational materials and sessions for boards and commissions involved in the review of development to ensure awareness of the interrelationship of bylaws and the importance of preserving historic and community resources.
Review and revise bylaws to further the purposes of this element. (HP14)
Devise methods to address the regulatory gaps in protection to historic and cultural resources identified in this element. (HP15)
Expand the demolition delay bylaw to allow design review of new construction on sites where structures over 75 years old are fully or partially demolished. (HP16)
Establish design review standards ensuring appropriate and compatible style and scale of additions to historic buildings and preservation of the original distinguishing qualities of historic buildings. (HP17) Include review of the moving of structures over 75 years old on the same site. (HP18)
Revise and update the sign bylaw. (HP19)
Protect the archeological and historical resources of the town.
Develop management programs for townowned historical properties, including cemeteries. (HP20)
Continue efforts to provide protection to historic structures and sites and archeological sites. (HP21)
Develop educational materials for developers and the general public regarding the protection of archeological resources; encourage the reporting of all known sites to the Massachusetts Historical Commission. (HP22)
Continue efforts to identify and recognize historic and archeological resources. (HP23)
Continue to nominate appropriate structures and sites to the National and State Registers. (HP24)
Complete the Historic Properties Survey (HP25)
Seek funds to undertake professional surveys to identify archeological resources in areas likely to contain such sites. (HP26)
Work with public and private agencies and entities to identify measures for protection of archeological resources. (HP27)
Work with owners of historic properties to obtain agreements or voluntary easements to ensure preservation of recognized historic resources. (HP28)
Consider a local bylaw requiring Massachusetts Historical Commission review of sites bordering wetlands prior to development. (HP29)
Protect and manage open space and vegetation, particularly valuable trees, on public and private lands.
Town Forests and Street Trees:
Inventory and assess the health, condition, and longevity of town forests, including trees along streets, with the assistance of public agencies such as the Department of Environmental Management and the Agricultural Extension. (HP30)
Develop a management plan for trees on public lands and along public roads, including a program for periodically planting new trees. (HP31)
Ensure that bylaws protect valuable trees and require landscaping on new and redeveloped projects. (HP32)
Amend the Zoning Bylaw to increase landscaping requirements on new development and redevelopment projects in order to provide buffering of adjacent uses, screening of parking areas and beautification of parking areas. (HP32) Consider bylaw provisions to protect mature valuable species of trees. (HP33)
Strengthen site plan review provisions of the Zoning Bylaw to allow the town to require site plan modifications to save valuable, mature trees. (HP34)
Allow flexibility in planting plans for new development in order to avoid conflicts between trees and utility lines and to avoid a regimented, urban appearance. (HP35)
Institute a public education program regarding tree planting, including suggestions on type of trees appropriate for Chatham’s conditions. (HP36)
Open Space:
Maintain as open space town property which was acquired for conservation and passive recreation and acquire additional property to preserve green, undeveloped land. (HP37)
Continue acquisition of open space by the town and encourage acquisition by private entities. (HP38)
Improve the appearance of utilities, communication facilities and lighting.
Improve the appearance of utilities and communication facilities. (HP39)
Continue to require placement of utilities underground in new residential and commercial development. (HP40)
Work with utility companies during roadway reconstruction projects to improve the appearance of overhead utility lines and poles. (HP41)
Work with the Cape Cod Commission on Capewide standards for location of communication facilities. (HP42)
Work with the Cape Cod Commission on Capewide underground utility studies and efforts. (HP43)
Ensure that lighting on public streets and commercial and institutional development is adequate and in keeping with the rural character of the Cape. (HP44)
Inventory street lighting and undertake a program of modification and expansion of street lighting to provide appropriate lighting in and around neighborhood centers. (HP45)
Develop guidelines for use in site plan and special permit review to ensure that site lighting is not excessive or urban in character. (HP46)
Consider restrictions on sign lighting. (HP19) Control noise in the community.
Include noise attenuation in site development review. (HP48)
Strengthen the review of potential noise generation in special permit and site plan reviews. (HP49)
Provide the Planning and Zoning Boards with information on noise generation and attenuation methods. (HP50)
Strengthen the requirement for solid buffers, such as fences, between commercial and residential areas and around noise generating areas such as dumpsters and compressors. (HP51)
Consider bylaws regulating the use of jet skis, dirt bikes, and other vehicles and devices which generate high noise levels; consider designating certain areas of town land for use of dirt bikes and banning them on others. (HP52)
Encourage and assist traditional industries important to the community’s history and character such as maritime industries and fishing. (See also Economics Element).
Promote the continued vitality of the fishing industry.
1. Ensure that water quality meets requirements to sustain fin and shellfish industries. (HP53)
Continue programs for seeding and propagation of shellfish. (HP54)
Maintain active support for fishing and other maritime industries and state and federal legislators and agencies. (HP55)
Promote the continuation of a strong Coast Guard presence at Chatham Light, and the maintenance of the lifesaving station’s historic identity. (HP56)
Continue to maintain and operate the Town Fish Pier and safe moorings and access for the small boat fishing fleet. (HP57)
Ensure that bylaws continue to allow fishingrelated uses in all districts. (HP58)
549 Main Street, Chatham, MA 02633 ph: 5089455100 Chatham Town Office fx: 5089453550
ECONOMICS DRAFT 03/15/03 6. ECONOMICS
Overview
Chatham's economy is similar to the region's in its high percentage of households with retirement income and its high percentages of persons employed in retail trade and services; but, there are differences. Chatham has twice the Cape Cod average of selfemployed persons, a higherthanregional average number of fishermen, and more highly valued residential properties.
Residents are employed in diverse occupations and businesses. All sources of data indicate that the dominant employment sector in Chatham is services. In part, this is because government employment reports include so many occupations within this category and, in part, because Chatham has numerous overnight accommodations, health care facilities, and professionals, all of which are classified as service industries. Although numbers vary by source, the second largest employment sector is retail trade, including restaurants. The fishery industries, construction, banking and real estate sectors are just behind services and retail trade in employment importance, with the numbers among these sectors about equal.
The pattern of Chatham's personal income illustrates the town's demographics: the percentage of Chatham households with income from social security is twice the statewide average, and a far higher percentage have income from pensions. The high percentage of retirement households in Chatham is an economic strength since their income brings funds to Chatham from outside sources. An income statistic of concern is that Chatham's median family income is lower than state and county averages, reflecting heavy employment in service and retail jobs characterized by low wages. The town's economy as a whole has offsetting assets, but families with belowaverage incomes do not.
Among Chatham's assets are its residential properties. Residential property owners pay more than 90 percent of the town's taxes, and valuations are increasing. Chatham's tax base is one of the state's highest. The town's average, singlefamily house value is almost one and onehalf times the state average. Because there are over 3000 houses that are occupied only seasonally, (more than onehalf of the houses in town), combined with the reasonable assumption that those who can afford second homes have aboveaverage incomes, it can be assumed that second home owners comprise a significant, although undocumented, portion of the town's economy. Besides being the primary support for town government, and its almost 300 employees, residential property also contribute through household purchases of retail goods and services and through payments to local building contractors for construction of new houses and alterations to existing ones. Construction of new houses on vacant lots was slower in the 1990s than during previous decades, but in 2002, the amount of money invested in both new houses and alterations to existing houses was $46 million, more than twice what was spent only five years earlier.
During the year 2000, reported Chatham fish landings were almost $15 million, and the town's 2001 shellfish harvest was $5.6 million. Both fisheries face threats — the fin fishery from federal restrictions and harbor access and shellfishing from closures because of pollution and from a possible federal closure of the Monomoy flats. Chatham's fishermen remain an important resource not only for the town but for the entire New England region.
To yearround residents it may not ring true, but Chatham is correctly described as a "resort community." This is, after all, a town whose population is estimated to be three times greater during midsummer than midwinter. It could well be that the primary economic contribution of shortterm, summer, visitors is their pattern of liking what they see, returning for extended stays, buying a vacation house and, (for many), making this house their retirement home. Unfortunately, there is no statistical source for the number of Chatham's daytrippers or the amounts they spend locally, but we do know, via room occupancy tax revenues, that year 2001 payments for overnight accommodations were roughly $12 million. The down side of the growing summer population is the congestion it brings to the town's streets and parking spaces. On the positive side is the extent to which it gives the town "an easily absorbed source of growth…and financial growth year after year." (Chamber of Commerce, 1997.)
In summary, this is a town that does not need to undertake drastic actions to turn its economy around, or even to promote expansion, yet there are challenges which town policies and actions need to address. We cannot expect this small town, located on a peninsula jutting 60 miles out to sea, to have it all, but there should be recognition of the elements of its economy that need strengthening, and commitment to do something about them. For one thing, the preservation of the town’s natural resources and physical attractiveness should be fundamental in an economy with a large numbers of retirees and second homeowners, (who can live wherever they want), and with a large segment of its employment in businesses catering to visitors.
The following Goals and Policies are key to sustaining Chatham’s healthy economy and to addressing identified issues.
Goals & Policies
6.0 Overall Goal Maintenance of a vital economy that will benefit all residents.
6.1. Goal Preservation and protection of the town’s natural resources and unique character which are vital to maintaining the town’s economic viability, including its attractiveness to retirees and secondhome owners who are a mainstay of the local economy.
Policies:
A. Preserve the town’s environmental quality in view of its importance to the economy of the town.
1. Support provisions of this comprehensive plan proposed to protect drinking water supplies. (EE1)
2. Support provisions of this plan proposed to protect coastal water quality. (EE2)
3. Support provisions of this plan concerning the disposal of waste water and solid waste. (EE3)
4. Support provisions of this plan managing the use and development of commercial properties. (EE4)
Preserve the community’s character in view of its importance to the economy.
1. Preserve Chatham’s walking downtown, one of the few remaining on the Cape, with its attractive store fronts and an interesting mix of retail businesses. (EE5)
a. Support the recommendations set forth in the Community Facilities and Open Space and Recreation elements for upgrading safety and facilities for visitors downtown.
b. Encourage local ownership of commercial properties
c. Encourage publicprivate partnerships to address downtown issues.
d. Preserve the appearance through limiting outdoor display of commercial goods.
2. Support the provisions of this comprehensive plan proposed to protect community character, including implementing the neighborhood center concept, requiring offstreet parking to the side or rear of buildings, controlling the size and scale of buildings, improving the appearance of commercial signage and providing service roads with limited access to Rte. 28 regulating site grading and clearing. (EE6)
3. Prevent commercial sprawl along Rte. 28 through the following: (EE7)
a. Support the provisions of this plan aimed at concentrating retail stores and services to already developed areas or neighborhood centers. (EE7)
b. Support the provisions of this plan calling for rezoning of areas between proposed neighborhood centers to residential. (EE7)
4. Preserve the appearance of Rte. 28 through limiting of outdoor display of commercial goods. (EE8) 5. Support provisions in this plan proposed to protect historic properties. (EE9)
6. Maintain the present boundaries of industrial areas except that expansion of the district into adjacent lands may be recommended to Town Meeting by the Planning Board provided that the land is found to be suitable for industrial use and that detrimental impact to adjacent properties can be adequately mitigated. (See Land Use section) (EE10)
6.2 Goal Continued viability of the fishing industries and preservation of the town’s maritime heritage.
POLICIES:
A. Provide facilities to serve the fishing fleet.
1. Continue to provide and operate mooring areas and facilities at Aunt Lydia’s Cove for the fishing fleet and ensure that the channel is maintained to the Fish Pier at Aunt Lydia’s Cove. (EE11)
2. Continue to maintain safe mooring areas and support facilities in Ryder’s Cove and Stage Harbor for fishing vessels. (EE12)
B. Support regional and local efforts to maintain the viability of the fishing industry.
1. Support efforts of local fishermen to shape regulation of the fishing industry. (EE13)
2. Implement provisions of this plan proposed to protect the water quality of the town’s harbors and embayments. (EE14)
3. Continue to support regional efforts to improve the marketing of local fish by participating in the programs and sponsoring or supporting grant applications and other program funding efforts. (EE15)
C. Provide support to the shellfish industry.
1. Continue and expand the town’s shellfish seeding and propagation programs to sustain resources. (EE16)
2. Implement policies in the Stage Harbor Management Plan and maintain and improve town landings to serve the shellfish industry. (EE17)
Explore the appropriateness and economic viability of aquaculture in support of the fishing industry. (EE18)
6.3 Goal Harmonious coexistence of tourism and residential uses.
POLICIES:
A. Support the Chamber of Commerce’s efforts to manage rather than promote tourism. (EE19)
B. Support the provisions of this plan to improve parking facilities, institute shuttles to landings and beaches, and construct toilet facilities. (EE20)
C. Provide town financial assistance to activities performed by the Chamber of Commerce that benefit the town as a whole. (EE21)
D. Ensure that rental units, including summer rentals, are kept in safe and decent condition by establishing a mandatory rental inspection program. (EE22)
6.4 Goal Improvements in incomes and housing prospects of lowwage Chatham workers.
POLICIES:
A. Continue to actively work with the Lower Cape Cod Community Development Corporation in providing technical assistance and microloans to the area’s small businesses. (EE23)
B. Implement the proposals in this plan for increasing affordable housing in order to assist in improving economic conditions and job opportunities. (EE24)
C. Encourage businesses to provide housing for their seasonal employees. (EE25) D. Encourage home occupations to the extent that they are in keeping with other provisions of this plan. (EE26)
E. Encourage Cape Cod Community College and other agencies to provide programs meeting the educational and retraining needs of area residents and to establish satellite facilities for the convenience of Lower Cape residents. (EE27)
F. Support the provisions of this plan for zoning changes and programs to meet the community’s need for affordable housing. (EE28)
G. Develop information to assist businesses in understanding and navigating the permit approval processes required by the town. (EE29)
H. Recognize the need of fishermen to use their property for storage of equipment in active use. (EE30)
6.5 Goal Implementation of the provisions of this plan addressing economic issues and coordination with economic development efforts of the area’s regional agencies.
POLICIES:
A. Establish an Economic Development Committee to coordinate activities addressing the town’s economic issues as identified in this plan. Specifically, the Task Force would: (EE31)
1. Work toward promoting yearround employment for Chatham residents. (EE31)
2. Work toward seeing that services needed by Chatham residents are available. (EE31)
3. Publicize town and regional programs to increase local participation and benefit. (EE31)
B. Continue to participate in the area’s regional agencies involved in economic development to ensure that their programs are designed and geared to address Chatham’s economic issues. (EE32)
549 Main Street, Chatham, MA 02633 ph: 5089455100 Chatham Town Office fx: 5089453550
Affordable Housing 7. Affordable Housing
Overview
When one compares the maximum affordable home purchase prices for an average, locallyemployed Chatham couple or family to the average listing price for Chatham residential properties, it is clear that there is a remarkable affordability gap for locallyemployed Chatham workers and residents who wish to acquire their own home.
Affordable Housing Strategies for Chatham, June 1988
After World War II, Chatham experienced both a residential building boom and an unprecedented influx of new residents, primarily of retirement age. The number of housing units has nearly quadrupled since 1945, while the population has more than tripled. The percentage of houses used only seasonally has steadily increased, though figures are elusive. From 1980 to 2000, the percentage of houses used yearround has declined from 53% to 47%, with the result that presently half of Chatham’s housing units are used seasonally and the number of houses now exceeds the yearround census population 6,743 units versus 6,625 people.
As land costs increased, inexpensive homes, primarily smaller yearround affordable houses, were sold, enlarged or totally replaced for retirement and/or second homes, depleting the affordable housing stock drastically. A substantial gap exists between mortgage costs and the price which typical area residents can pay. As of 1999, the maximum mortgage affordable by a household with the area’s median income ($44,700) was $117,220 and for a moderate income household (one earning 80% of the median income), the maximum affordable mortgage was $89,400. With very few houses available for $200,000 or less, most people of median or lower income cannot afford to purchase.
The affordability gap exists for renters, too. Assuming that 28% of income can be comfortably spent on housing (not including utilities), a monthly payment of $834 is affordable for a moderate income family in Chatham (one earning 80% of the median income) and $559 is affordable for a low income family (making 50% of median income or $22,350). Currently, rental prices run about $750 for a 2bedroom apartment and start at $850 for a house. Paying more than 30% of income for housing is risking financial difficulties, particularly a lowincome household. Many Chatham households with incomes of $20,000 or under are paying more than 35% of their income for housing over onethird of the homeowners and twothirds of the renters. This is more a problem for families than for the elderly. The Human Services Committee’s annual survey indicates that 20% of young families are paying over 50% of their income for housing. The purpose of this section is to identify issues and goals for affordable housing for the citizens of our town singles, families and the elderly who need it.
Goals & Policies
7.1 Goal Improve opportunities for the area’s low and moderate income households to find safe and decent affordable yearround housing units in Chatham.
Definitions used in this section:
Low and moderate income households are those with incomes at or below 80% of Chatham’s median household income as reported by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Affordable means at a cost of no more than 30% of gross household income for households at or below 80% of the town’s median income as reported by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Yearround housing units are houses or apartments occupied for most or all of the year.
Policies
The Affordable Housing Committee, or any other entities as may be appointed by the Board of Selectmen for the same purpose, should establish an affordable housing program in keeping with the objectives and policies of this plan, specifically addressing Chatham’s affordable housing needs.
Recommend funding methods, such as passage of the Community Preservation Act in 2002, as well as grants and town appropriations necessary to carry out an effective affordable housing program. (AH1)
Work with regional housing agencies, such as the HOME Consortium and the Lower Cape Cod Community Development Corporation, as well as private entities such as Habitat for Humanity, to develop cooperative arrangements and projects to benefit Chatham’s low and moderate households. (AH2)
Explore the creation of a housing nonprofit organization to raise funds to be used to develop affordable housing. (AH3)
Coordinate with economic development efforts and human services agencies to improve economic and living conditions for the area’s low and moderate income households. (AH4)
Administer matters related to the designation or contribution of affordable housing units, funds, and lots by developers or other donors. (AH5)
7.2 Goal Meet the regional affordable housing goal of 10% of the yearround housing units in Chatham by the year 2015 by raising the stock to 5% by the year 2005, 7.5% by the year 2010 and 10% by the year 2015.
Definitions used in this section:
Affordable housing means rental or purchased units that can be leased or purchased by residents and workers at or below 80% of median income. Affordable housing goal of 10%. This percentage has been set as the commonwealth’s goal for all communities in the state. It is based on 10% of all yearround occupied housing units in a town be affordable housing. (See above)
Policies
Amend the Zoning Bylaw to allow mixed residential and commercial development and multifamily dwellings within neighborhood centers and ensure that some units in neighborhood centers be affordable housing. (AH6)
Amend the Zoning Bylaw to require that 10% of the units or lots in a development of over 10 units or lots be affordable. Allow for such units or lots to be provided offsite and that equivalent payment may be made to the town for its affordable housing program. (AH7)
Preserve and maintain the existing affordable housing stock. (AH8)
Ensure that current housing units created or dedicated as affordable housing remain affordable. On all affordable units provided in response to bylaw requirements or regulations, require a deed restriction ensuring that the units remain affordable in perpetuity. (AH9)
Evaluate current Zoning Bylaws to allow accessory apartments for other than relatives with restriction to rent them at affordable rates. Create an amnesty bylaw for currently illegal apartments, modeled after Barnstable’s. (AH10)
Produce new affordable housing units. (AH11)
Expand current bylaw that requires apartments over commercial space to allow commercial space to be converted to apartments with deed restrictions to keep the rentals affordable. (AH12)
Allow developers increased density in exchange for affordable units on site. (AH13)
Require that site plan development for institutions (commercial and nonprofit) employing more than 10 workers include housing for them. (AH14)
Develop a rental inspection bylaw. (AH15)
Provide tax incentives to those who already provide apartments that are affordably priced and to those who bring new affordably priced apartments on the market to maintain these apartments at affordable rates. (AH16)
7.3 Goal New or rehabilitated affordable housing should be designed to fit into the existing neighborhood so neither the appearance nor location of the units would identify them as affordable.
Policies When creating or preserving a pool of affordable housing, be responsive to the community’s concern about wastewater and green space.
Strive toward “scattered site” affordable housing rather than grouping or concentrating units in one area.
Affordable housing units created through required developer dedication or through local funds shall be compatible with the neighborhood in design, appearance, construction, and quality of materials. (AH17)
Amend the Zoning Bylaw to require that sites on which apartments are located are laid out and designed to provide residential amenities, such as usable yard space, trees, open green space, screened dumpsters, and convenient landscaped parking areas, to the tenants or owners of units. Include a requirement for retrofitting sites to include such amenities where apartments are created through conversion of existing buildings. (AH18)
Ensure that affordable units are fairly marketed without discrimination prohibited by law and that selected tenants are income eligible.
Definition used in this section:
Income eligible means that the income of the applicant household does not exceed 80% of the median household income in Barnstable County as recorded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Require through bylaw that developers providing affordable housing units in response to local requirements establishing fair procedures and criteria for marketing units and selecting tenants and/or buyers in keeping with this objective. (AH19)
Marketing strategies for units created through local funds shall be in keeping with this objective.
Ensure that affordable housing created in Chatham addresses specific local needs.
Update surveys and need analyses at a minimum of 5year intervals and adjust town programs and focus accordingly. (AH20)
Evaluate existing affordable housing at a minimum of 5year intervals to determine the extent to which needs have been met through town and private efforts and what deficiencies remain. (AH20)
Through the housing organization designated by the town, work with local inns and other seasonal employers to address the housing needs of summer workers. (AH21)
Establish a rental voucher program or other method to encourage yearround affordable rentals and discourage the eviction of renters during the summer months. (AH22)
Ensure that affordable housing efforts are supportive of the environmental policies of this plan. Consider the use of nitrogen removal systems where nitrate loading regulations limit the number of bedrooms in units with conventional septic systems. (See Land Use and Natural Resources sections.)
Encourage the use of existing buildings (rather than new construction) for affordable housing unit creation. (AH23)
Ensure that rental units, including summer rentals, are kept in safe and decent condition. (AH23)
Establish a mandatory rental inspection program. (AH23)
Ensure that all affordable rental units created by the town have a workable management program. (AH24)
549 Main Street, Chatham, MA 02633 ph: 5089455100 Chatham Town Office fx: 5089453550
Human Services 8. Human Services
Overview Human Service has held an important place in Chatham’s history since the incorporation of the Town in the early 18th century, and probably before then. Originally the Selectmen were also “overseers of the Poor” and spent a large part of their time addressing the needs of the townspeople. Funds for these services were provided annually by Town Meeting. As the Town grew and changed, so did the needs of the people, many of which could not be addressed within Chatham. Cooperation with agencies outside Chatham became important. In addition, however, greater knowledge of how to prevent troubles or to keep troubles from worsening has emphasized the need for professional helpers with knowledge in various specialized fields. The result has been the development of a variety of organizations, both public and private, dedicated to helping individuals with the requirements for functioning in society. New perceptions of human service needs have arisen out of general demographic and societal changes. Prominent among the changes is the greater number of older people in the population. Concomitantly, but also related to advances in emergency and rehabilitation medicine, larger numbers of people of all ages are living with physical handicaps. Children and young people are exposed to risk factors that were virtually unknown to earlier generations of residents. This section of the Comprehensive Plan addresses these types of problems and some of the problems of the support system itself. Although it can be argued that the whole aim of government is human service, this section does not encompass the services of public safety, public education and public sanitation which are designed for the protection of the whole population, but assumes their continuance with adequate support into the future. In summary, this section of the plan proposes a townlevel approach to human services planning and activity with the following goal: to insure that no persons in Chatham, regardless of age, income or other characteristics, go without food, shelter or other resources enabling them to function as productive members of our community.
Goals & Policies
8.1 Goal Ensure that human service needs of Chatham residents are identified and appropriate resources made available and effectively used.
Policies
The Chatham Human Services Committee shall continue to advise the Town on human service needs and shall be constituted to be representative of the community. The Human Services Department shall be charged with providing staff assistance to the Committee. Duties and responsibilities of the Human Services Committee shall be as follows: 1. Develop an ongoing mechanism for systematic collection of information about human service needs and resources from official and voluntary agencies. (HR1)
Advise the Board of Selectmen, the Finance Committee and Town Meeting about the financing needed for adequate service delivery. (HR2) Encourage coordination of activities by service organizations and voluntary programs. Provide information to the general public about services available and services needed. (HR3) Encourage volunteerism where appropriate. Continue to financially support human services through Town Meeting appropriation at least at the current level and that additional support also be available in the future to meet documented needs as they emerge. Services to the Elderly Maintain adequacy of response to home health care needs . Explore public/private methods for assisting financially to meet gaps in medical coverage. (HR4) Continue town support of services provided through the Council on Aging and continue to encourage private support. Encourage the cooperation of public and private groups including interfaith groups, in providing assistance with household chores for the elderly population. (HR5) Increase the stock of appropriate and affordable rental housing for the elderly in conjunction with the Affordable Housing Committee and the Chatham Housing Authority. (See Affordable Housing section.) Coordinate public and voluntary transportation resources serving the elderly. (HR6) Services to the Physically Challenged Continue to enforce federal and state laws as well as encouraging voluntary cooperation to provide access to public buildings, public restrooms, shops, churches, recreational areas, curb cuts, fog stripes and transportation facilities, including provisions for those with hearing or vision disabilities. (HR7) Use microphones at all large public meetings and provide assisted listening systems. (HR8) Make sure all street signs are clearly visible. (HR9) Increase the number of handicap parking spaces in the downtown area. Encourage volunteer monitoring of use of these spaces. (HR10) Consider holding Town Meeting on Saturday morning. Needs of Children and Their Families Support the recommendations of the document “Chatham’s Future: Our Youth” developed in 1995 by “Together We Can,” a community group. (HR11) Support the recommendations of “Chatham’s Children” for a wellplanned structured community effort supported by Town funds to provide Chatham’s teens age 1218 play, learning and growth opportunities that will enhance their quality of life. (HR12) Encourage cooperation of schools, Monomoy Community Services, and ecumenical groups in further development of affordable day care, including services for children from birth to four years and before and after school care. (HR13) Work to increase the stock of affordable housing in Chatham, realizing the needs of families with children in conjunction with the Affordable Housing Committee and the Chatham Housing Authority. (See Affordable Housing section). Investigate the need for resources for counseling about federal and state benefits available to children and families. Coordinate efforts with the health Outreach Program of the Lower/Outer Cape Community Coalition. (HR14) Identify resources to provide low or no cost legal information and consultations for low income families. (HR15) Support the recommendations of the Affordable Housing section of this plan, particularly as they address the needs of young families, the disabled and elderly people with low incomes. (HR16) Work with regional bodies such as the Lower/Outer Cape Coalition and the Regional Transit Authority to maximize the use of funds available from state and federal sources for increasing public transportation services on Cape Cod as well as to offCape destinations. (HR17) Support the development of “feeder systems” to transport riders from home or other designated locations to stops on public transportation routes. (HR18) Continue the search for feasible intown shuttle service from remote parking to frequently used locations. (HR19) Promote the use of newly instituted RTA and Plymouth & Brockton runs to insure their continuation. Educate the public about the benefits of public transportation for decreasing traffic and traffic’s deleterious effects on air quality and human health. (HR20) Work towards promoting healthy/constructive behaviors in Chatham’s residents. Support agencies and programs, such as the DARE program of the Police Department, the Substance Abuse Council, Together We Can, the churches, and Monomoy Community Services, and exchange information among them about planned activities. (HR21) Develop additional multiage recreational resources and provide adequate supervision for children and adolescents using recreational facilities. (HR22) Publicize programs and activities related to promotion of constructive behaviors. (HR23) Support the conversion of the Main Street School into a community center where all residents can develop constructive behaviors. (HR24) Support human services within Chatham and monitor the efficacy of the system as it relates to residents. Support outoftown agencies providing needed services to Chatham residents commensurate with numbers served and costs. (HR25)
Promote town/agency participation in programs that develop and coordinate resources. (HR26)