The appointment of a new conservation officer was a focal point of the meeting. After conducting interviews, the commission selected a candidate who accepted the position. However, the candidate’s full-time employment in another town necessitated a separate meeting to finalize the appointment. This meeting is anticipated to take place virtually via Zoom.

Public access to town departments, particularly the conservation department, was another issue discussed. The commission members expressed the need for improved clarity and access, prompting the suggestion to draft a letter to the Town Administrator. This action aimed to articulate their concerns ahead of a planned meeting by the Board of Selectmen in June.

In terms of environmental management, the commission reviewed and approved several requests for certificates of completion and determinations of applicability. The requests for certificates of completion at two Pickins Avenue and one Hilltop Park were both motioned and approved, the latter relating to a septic system upgrade. Verification for the Pickins Avenue site was provided through photographs, although an on-site verification by the commission was pending.

The commission deliberated on a request for a determination of appealability for a property on East Public Street. The property’s installation of erosion control and soil replacement was discussed, culminating in an agreement on the usage of a silk sock and hydroseed for the entire lawn area.

Furthermore, the commission approved a request for determination of applicability on Copicut Road concerning a solar array project. This approval came without any recommended changes. Another request on Browns Lane involved the construction of a gazebo and equipment shed, which the commission approved with the condition of implementing erosion control measures to protect nearby wetlands.

A reopened public hearing for a property on Walnut Street saw the commission review revisions to the initial plan, including the handling of materials removed from the site. In contrast, the public hearing for the delineation of a resource area on Middle Road was deferred due to the absence of the attendees.

Lastly, the commission waived its right of first refusal regarding the sale notification of a property on Flag Swamp Road. Additionally, a shift in the planning and land use department’s location to fire station number two was met with concerns over potential noise issues and restricted public access at the new site.

The meeting concluded with administrative matters, including the need to file budget transfer forms and the postponement of a communication matter to the next meeting. A motion to adjourn was made, wrapping up the session.