With summer fast approaching, the Oak Bluffs select board Tuesday fielded a slew of proposals from businesses, residents and event planners.

The board unanimously approved the MV Community of Change Black Party at Waban Park on August 6, but expressed concern about the party after last year’s event spilled out of the park and onto the beach.

Board members asked for assurance that the event won’t exceed a small area of the park planned to hold vendors and a small stage. “We’re trying to find ways to positively enact change both in the ways we permit and the way we message,” board member Brian Packish said.

Event planner Kharma Finley assured the board that she has set strict parameters for organizations she plans to invite to present at the event, most of which are Island-based.

“We have control of the event, we have control of who’s there, we have control of what’s going on,” Ms. Finley said. “This is something I feel really good about and I hope it’s a great event.”

Barn Bowl and Bistro owner Mike Sawyer asked the board for permission to reinstate outdoor seating for the summer as a Covid relief measure, but the board voted 3-2 against the request.

Board members cited repeated complaints from neighbors about the restaurant in previous years when outdoor seating was allowed. Board member Ryan Ruley said he sees less need for emergency Covid relief measures for businesses.

“We’ve got quite a few letters not for your project,” board member Jason Balboni said.

Mr. Sawyer offered to close outdoor seating at the Barn earlier than the rest of the business, and said he would close the downstairs entertainment space for the summer in order to accommodate outdoor seating.

“We’re going to just give up the function room,” he said.

Board members Ryan Ruley, Gail Barmakian and Emma Green-Beach voted against a motion that would allow 24 chairs for outdoor seating until 9 p.m.

Josh Saltmarsh wants to offer electric surfboarding lessons at State Beach near the big bridge, but the board said he would need permission from the county and state, who control the beach and highway.

The board also voted unanimously to appoint Carrie Blair as permanent town accountant. Ms. Blair has beeen training under town administrator Deborah Potter, who is the former town accountant.

“It is without any reservation that I recommend you appoint Ms. Carrie Blair,” Ms. Potter told the board.

“Carrie you’re great,” Mr. Balboni said. “I think you do a great job.”