Shutesbury Conservation Commission Tackles Property Development Concerns

In a recent meeting of the Shutesbury Conservation Commission, discussions centered on various property developments, including an extensive remodeling project on Lake Drive, proposed construction of a new house and dock with related environmental concerns, and a request for extension in the wetland delineation process. Additionally, the commission addressed regulatory fee alignments, a resident’s drainage issue on Pine Drive, and the potential sale of a property currently under chapter 61.

A significant portion of the discussion was devoted to a notice of intent for a property on Lake Drive, where plans for remodeling an existing home, constructing a garage, and installing a new septic system and retaining wall were introduced. The project also proposed modifications to an existing dock to bring it into compliance with regulations. Concerns were raised regarding the preservation of trees within the 100-foot buffer zone and the overall impact on the existing house. The representative for the Lake Drive project detailed the work and responded to inquiries about environmental implications.

Another topic of high interest was a proposed construction project for a new house and dock. This required close examination of the potential environmental impact, specifically concerning the removal of trees within the 100-foot buffer zone and the need for a planting plan. The project also called for a detailed drainage and maintenance plan for the property. This led to the decision to continue the public hearing to the next meeting scheduled for March 28th, allowing for additional review and discussion of the proposed plans.

The commission also dedicated time to a request to extend the wetland delineation process for a property owner who cited no physical changes to the land. The commission agreed to consider the extension, pending the submission of a letter to confirm the status of the delineation. Furthermore, an amendment to the order of conditions for a property on LL Road Lot 032 was brought forward due to a change in the parking layout that resulted from grading issues. The commission concluded that an amendment was appropriate and decided to hold a public hearing on this matter at the upcoming meeting.

Issues related to regulations were also addressed. The commission reviewed the fee table and discussed aligning their local fees with state fees for notices of intent, a move that would involve updating their regulations to reflect these changes. This comparison and adjustment of fees were part of the commission’s ongoing efforts to maintain consistency with state guidelines.

A resident’s concern about drainage issues on Pine Drive was noted, and the commission planned a site visit to assess the situation. This engagement highlighted the commission’s role in overseeing a variety of environmental and conservation matters within the town.

The meeting also touched upon the administrative aspect of the commission, with discussions on the progress of finding a new commissioner to fill an upcoming vacancy. The commission identified three interested individuals and planned to distribute a questionnaire to those candidates.

The possibility of a property being taken out of chapter 61 was raised, with a resident showing interest in the process and potential sale. This item, although not as extensively discussed as the development projects, is indicative of the broader land use and conservation interests that the commission must balance.

Toward the end of the meeting, there was an announcement from one of the commissioners about their plans to relocate, prompting the commission to discuss the transition and the process for appointing a replacement. The commission’s ability to maintain a full and active board is critical to its operation and the execution of its duties.

Note: This meeting summary was generated by AI, which can occasionally misspell names, misattribute actions, and state inaccuracies. This summary is intended to be a starting point and you should review the meeting record linked above before acting on anything you read. If we got something wrong, let us know. We’re working every day to improve our process in pursuit of universal local government transparency.
Town Administrator:
Rebecca Torres
Environmental Commission Officials:
Mary David, Robin Harrington, Scott Kahan, Beth Willson, Carey Marshall (Land Use Clerk)

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