The Nantucket Select Board convened on December 4, 2024, to address several key issues, including proposed increases in sewer and commercial landfill fees. The meeting began with a public hearing regarding the sewer use fees, where board members discussed the implications of raising these fees by 10%.

During the discussion, it was noted that while some fees would be waived for certain sewer connections, others would see an increase. Board members acknowledged the necessity of balancing the budget, with one member emphasizing that there is "no free lunch," indicating that subsidies for some would lead to higher costs for others. The board considered the long-term effects of not implementing gradual increases over the years, which could lead to larger, more shocking hikes in the future.

Public comments highlighted concerns from residents about the affordability of switching from septic systems to sewer connections. One resident, Veronica Bonet, expressed that the costs associated with sewer use have significantly impacted her household budget. She urged the board to find ways to keep these costs manageable, emphasizing the importance of maintaining water quality on the island.

After the public comments, the board unanimously voted to approve the proposed sewer fee increase, with a suggestion to incorporate a cost-of-living adjustment in future years to avoid large jumps in fees.

The meeting then transitioned to a public hearing on amending the Commercial Land Fee Schedule. The board proposed a 3.25% increase in commercial landfill fees, based on an analysis of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for fiscal year 2025. The current and proposed fees were presented for review, and the board opened the floor for public input on this matter.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to addressing financial sustainability while considering the impact of fee increases on residents and businesses in Nantucket. Further discussions on implementing annual adjustments to fees are anticipated in future meetings.