The meeting began with a public hearing to amend parking regulations on Algonquin Road. The proponents of the change cited concerns about obstructed views and blocked driveways, leading to a proposition to extend the no-parking zone to improve visibility and safety. The commission heard from residents who emphasized the necessity of this amendment for the safety of drivers and pedestrians alike, particularly in areas where children are frequently present.

Another public hearing addressed the proposal to add a stop sign at the intersection of Charer Street and Ward Street. The rationale behind this proposal was driven by the need for consistency in stop patterns and the enhancement of safety for all road users. Residents in favor of the new stop sign articulated the challenges faced at this intersection and the potential benefits that a stop sign could introduce in managing traffic flow and reducing accidents.

A point of contention during the meeting involved a request to add a drop-off zone in front of 286 Feno Street to accommodate a resident with mobility issues. While proponents underscored the importance of ensuring easy access for the resident, concerns were voiced regarding parking enforcement and whether implementing time constraints on handicap parking was legally permissible. The commission engaged in a thorough debate over the effectiveness of a temporary drop-off zone and the complexities associated with its enforcement.

The commission also discussed changing the verbiage on a sign intended for handicap access to designate it as a loading zone with a 30-minute time limit, to deter long-term parking. The decision was made to adjust the sign to clearly communicate the new loading-only regulation, removing any mention of “parking” and specifying the 30-minute restriction.

In a move to prevent illegal and potentially dangerous vehicular maneuvers, the commission evaluated a request to install traffic separators at an intersection frequently plagued by prohibited U-turns and left turns, especially concerning due to its proximity to Lincoln Elementary School. The separators were described as being cost-effective, reflective, and simple to install, and were recommended as a safety measure that did not necessitate a public hearing.

Additionally, there was a request to amend the schedule for one-way streets, proposing that Fairfield Street be changed from a one-way to a two-way street, allowing parking on the easterly side. This request, along with a request to add a handicap spot in front of a specific office, was debated among commission members. The placement of the handicap spot sparked a discussion, as some members expressed concerns about situating it across the street from the resident’s home. Both requests were subsequently moved to a public hearing for further consideration.