Barnstable Town Council

Barnstable Town Council

The legislative body of the Town of Barnstable — setting policy, approving the annual budget, and enacting ordinances for Cape Cod’s largest municipality.

13
Members
2 yrs
Term Length
1st & 3rd Thu
Meeting Schedule
Elected
By Voters
🏛️ About the Town Council: The Barnstable Town Council is the legislative body for the Town of Barnstable, the largest municipality on Cape Cod. Unlike most Cape towns that use Town Meeting, Barnstable adopted a council-manager form of government. The 13-member council represents the town’s seven villages (precincts), with each precinct electing one council member and six members elected at-large. The Council sets policy, approves the annual operating and capital budgets, enacts ordinances, and confirms the Town Manager’s appointment.

Council Members

⚠️ The official town directory may not reflect the most current membership. Please verify at townofbarnstable.us
Name Precinct Status
Matthew Levesque President Verify Current
Paula Schnepp Vice President Verify Current

What the Town Council Does

🏛️ Legislative Authority

Enacts ordinances and resolutions governing the Town of Barnstable. The Council functions as the town’s legislative branch, debating and voting on matters ranging from zoning changes to licensing regulations.

💰 Budget Approval

Reviews and approves the annual operating budget and capital improvement plan. The Council holds public hearings on the budget proposed by the Town Manager before final adoption.

📋 Policy & Oversight

Sets policy direction for town operations and provides oversight of municipal departments. Confirms the Town Manager’s appointment of department heads and committee members.

🗳️ Appointments & Licensing

Confirms appointments to boards and committees. Grants various licenses including liquor licenses, entertainment licenses, and other business permits requiring council approval.

Active Issues & Current Focus

Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan (CWMP)
Barnstable’s 30-year, multi-billion dollar wastewater infrastructure plan is one of the largest capital commitments in the town’s history. The Council oversees phased approvals, financing, and implementation.
Short-Term Rental Regulation
The Council has debated regulatory frameworks for short-term rentals, balancing housing availability, neighborhood character, and tourism revenue across the seven villages.
Local Comprehensive Plan Update
Barnstable is updating its Local Comprehensive Plan — the blueprint for land use, development, and community growth over the next decade.

Meetings & Agendas

The Town Council typically meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month at 7:00 PM in the Barnstable Town Hall Hearing Room. All meetings are open to the public. Full meeting calendar →