Commissioners approve one‑time 3% payment for Cape Cod Commission executive director after annual review

Barnstable County commissioners reviewed the performance of Kristy Sanatore, executive director of the Cape Cod Commission, during the Oct. 22 meeting and voted to award a one‑time payment equal to 3% of her annual salary.

Commissioner Bergstrom moved the motion: "I will move to award a 1 time payment 3% of annual salary due to satisfactory performance evaluation as per employment contract." A second was recorded, and the board voted in favor by voice vote.

Sanatore thanked commissioners for their support and said discussions with the commission’s executive committee had given her an opportunity to explain goals and priorities for the coming year. "I appreciate your vote," Sanatore said, adding she welcomed ongoing communication with commissioners about priorities and support needs.

Several commissioners used the review to raise policy priorities for the commission’s coming year, with particular attention to development pressures on the Outer Cape and climate impacts such as flooding during high winds. Commissioners asked the commission to be "more eyes wide open and truthful" about development and limits to local infrastructure, and to provide objective guidance to towns on what has worked elsewhere and legal constraints when considering changes to zoning or other local policies. Sanatore acknowledged the feedback and said the commission and staff would continue to engage with towns and partners.

Ending: The board’s formal action awarded the one‑time payment and commissioners asked the Cape Cod Commission to take an assertive role in advising towns on planning and climate adaptation as part of next year’s workplan.