One item at the meeting was the application for a minor subdivision with preliminary and final site plan D variance and C variances for a proposed contractor storage yard. The plan involves revitalizing an old concrete plant site, reconfiguring existing lots to have frontage on Everett Road without creating additional lots. The applicant’s representative detailed the intention to use the site for controlled parking of construction equipment, trucks, and materials, emphasizing security measures like a 24/7 camera system and a gated entrance. There was a testimony about the applicant’s desire to be a good neighbor by addressing illegal parking through providing a legal parking option. The board engaged with the proposal, inquiring about the number of tenants, landscaping, and stormwater management, and the visibility of the site from different vantage points.

Discussions emerged around stormwater management and the need for plans, especially in light of potential flooding on Everett Road. The board and the applicant debated the site’s runoff, with the applicant arguing that their plans would not increase impervious coverage or alter existing drainage patterns significantly. The board considered input from the board engineer and the Office of Emergency Management regarding specific areas impacted by flooding. The debate focused on the need for comprehensive stormwater management and the details of the site’s impervious coverage and easement agreements.

A property on River Road was also a focal point, where the owner discussed redevelopment plans, including leasing out spaces for businesses such as snow plowing and storage of salt. The board probed into proposed hours of operation, types of businesses as potential tenants, and compliance with environmental regulations.

Additionally, the board deliberated on an application related to increasing impervious coverage, showing support due to the minimal increase and inclusion of stormwater management provisions. The board emphasized compliance with conditions to avoid future issues.

Another topic involved the discussion of a property owner who agreed to move a non-compliant shed back to the required setback line. The board stressed the importance of a stormwater management plan to address concerns raised by residents about potential flooding.

The meeting navigated through various other applications, including one dismissed due to the applicant’s lack of readiness and another adjourned pending the submission of detailed floor plans. The board also examined a property’s septic system capacity and condition, debated the expiration of the Letter of Interpretation for wetlands, discussed the need to remove stockpiles encroaching on wetland areas, and covered the environmental aspects of a site with a history of contamination.

The session concluded with a closed segment for legal advice regarding social media use by board members during the hearing process and a case involving the disqualification of planning board members in another jurisdiction. The hearing was scheduled to continue on July 18th, with an extension granted until September 30th.