The Patriot Relocation Services project presented one notable issue as residents and board members alike raised numerous concerns. The proposal’s potential noise and traffic impact on the residential area were key points of discussion. The board sought additional information on the project’s traffic levels and its effect on intersections. The possibility of including specific operating hours in the permit to mitigate noise issues was considered. Public comments reflected worries about the timing of truck movements and the consequent noise levels, although it was assured that no vote would be taken that day and the discussion would continue at a later time.

Residents also voiced apprehensions about the safety of South Worcester Street, with increased traffic from the proposed development. Barbara Childes, a local resident, brought up existing water drainage challenges while Rebecca Clary expressed concern for the safety of children in the area, especially those waiting for school buses. Sidewalks and other safety measures were suggested to address the increased traffic concerns. The size of the trucks, which could range from box trucks to 53-foot tractor trailers, and the parking of these vehicles after business hours were also topics of debate. In response to inquiries, the applicant stated that the trucks would remain on-site and primarily use their own drivers with rare use of independent drivers.

The board and residents also discussed the potential impact on property values, the location of driveway entrances and exits, and the width of roads that might not accommodate large trucks. The issue of noise pollution from the existing property was also raised, with some residents opposing the permit due to preexisting complaints about noise, air pollution, and threats to children in the area. The board considered the enforceability of conditions related to the permit and the hours of operation.

Further, the proposed relocation of Paramount Transportation Systems to the area was a topic of concern. Residents raised issues regarding potential noise and light pollution, particularly after the clearing of trees that served as a buffer area. The board addressed the notification process for such projects and directed residents to the planning board website for related documents. Questions about the trucks and drivers associated with the business led to clarification that the proposed business is not associated with Home Market Foods and that noise and traffic issues were being considered.

The meeting also featured a heated exchange over the conflict between industrial and residential zoning, with concerns about potential flooding and truck emissions. The implications of tax revenue on safety and the practicality of conditions like idling restrictions for trucks were debated. Residents and board members alike considered the possibility of refrigerated storage and the process for changing zoning, although the board explained their limitations in implementing zoning changes.

In addition to the warehouse project, the board approved a request for a site plan modification on Country Club Way to add a sunroom and enclose part of the existing deck space. The Building Commissioner deemed the modification minor, and the applicant was informed about the need to file the decision with the Registry of Deeds.

The meeting also highlighted organizational issues, such as discrepancies in document organization in Dropbox and OpenGov. The board emphasized the importance of consistency in file naming and organization to improve accessibility and clarity. Moreover, the board voted to authorize the Town Manager to sign time sheets on behalf of the board members.

Lastly, the board discussed a special permit for Earth removal and a common driveway for a residential project on Crane Street but decided to continue the discussion at the next session on June 25th. Safety concerns regarding a potential shared driveway and an alternative location were discussed, as were questions about the ownership of the property and the parties involved in the application.