Falmouth

Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan — Great Pond Phase 1

In April 2025, Falmouth Town Meeting approved a $60 million appropriation for Phase 1 of the Great Pond sewer project, the town’s largest single infrastructure investment. The project targets nitrogen pollution degrading Great Pond and surrounding embayments. Phases 1 and 2 combined could cost up to $400 million over the coming decades, funded through a mix of Proposition 2½ debt exclusions and state revolving funds.

Why it matters: Nitrogen loading from septic systems is the primary driver of water-quality decline in Falmouth’s coastal ponds and harbors. Sewer expansion is the long-term fix but carries significant cost implications for property owners in affected zones.

Resident impact: Homeowners in Phase 1 areas will face sewer connection fees and betterment assessments. In November 2025, the town began exploring a wastewater tax surcharge to help finance ongoing infrastructure needs.

Source: Falmouth Wastewater →

Affordable Housing — Safe Harbor Status & Housing Production Plan

Falmouth has been working to maintain compliance with state affordable housing requirements under Chapter 40B. The town adopted a certified Housing Production Plan and is pursuing multiple strategies including an Affordable Housing Property Tax Exemption, tax incentives for year-round rentals, and development of town-owned parcels for affordable units. A missed permit deadline in early 2025 briefly cost the town its “Safe Harbor” status.

Why it matters: Without Safe Harbor status, developers can bypass local zoning through 40B comprehensive permits. The town’s ability to manage growth and maintain community character depends on meeting state-mandated affordable housing thresholds.

Municipal Budget & AAA Bond Rating

In September 2025, S&P Global Ratings affirmed Falmouth’s AAA bond rating with a stable outlook, reflecting strong financial management despite significant new debt from wastewater infrastructure. The town issued $8.885 million in general obligation bonds for its 2025 capital program. Managing the balance between major infrastructure investment and tax burden is a central challenge for the Select Board and Finance Committee.

Why it matters: A AAA rating means lower borrowing costs for taxpayers on major projects. Maintaining it while taking on hundreds of millions in wastewater debt requires disciplined fiscal management and transparent budget processes.

Town Meeting Participation & Zoning Amendments

Falmouth’s November 2025 Town Meeting addressed multiple zoning articles proposed by the Planning Board, including amendments to prohibited uses, business district regulations, and special permit allowances. Town Meeting remains the primary forum for policy decisions, and attendance and engagement directly shape outcomes on development, spending, and land use.

Why it matters: Zoning changes can alter the character of neighborhoods, affect property values, and determine where and how development occurs. Residents who participate in Town Meeting have a direct vote on these outcomes.