The meeting’s discussions centered on the comprehensive review of the project’s conditions, with a focus on ensuring that the development aligns with municipal land use laws and meets the town’s infrastructure needs. The board scrutinized a list of conditions presented by the applicant’s representative, addressing topics ranging from the design of the stormwater system to the management of traffic flow and pedestrian safety.

The stormwater system design was a focal point, with the board and the applicant’s engineer engaging in a dialouge about the hydrographs and the methodologies used for calculating stormwater runoff volumes. The engineers explained the differences between two standards used to model rainfall distribution, noting that while one reaches the peak sooner, both ultimately result in the same water volume.

Another issue was the debate over the project’s potential impact on traffic, especially at the corner of Bloomfield and Sunset, where concerns about increased congestion and pedestrian safety were raised. A resident emphasized the need for the town to collaborate with the county to manage the influx of traffic.

The board also tackled the details of fencing and exterior elements. The replacement of existing fencing with new Earth-colored composite fencing was agreed upon, along with the installation of a type 13 sprinkler system in the garage. The prohibition of cellular tower leases on the site and the specificity of signage lighting to be only backlit without additional accessory lighting were among the conditions debated.

During public comments, residents highlighted issues related to the town’s responsibilities, such as water pressure, electricity, and landscaping maintenance, urging the council and planning board to conduct an after-action review of the development process. The CEO of Spectr360, a charitable nonprofit organization, spoke about the urgency to sell their property to alleviate financial strain and continue serving individuals with autism and related disabilities.

The applicant expressed their enthusiasm for the project, touting the developer’s reputation as a manager of luxury rental properties and the intention to attract renters by choice. They thanked the board and town professionals for their attention to the application and underscored the benefits of the development, including a substantial tax base and contributions to the affordable housing trust fund.

Board members and professionals, while expressing opinions and intentions to vote in favor of the application, did raise concerns about the project, including its architectural design and neighborhood compatibility. However, the board’s majority ultimately voiced support for the project, leading to a motion to approve the application with the stipulated conditions. The roll call vote passed.