One of the primary concerns discussed at length was the notice of intent for the removal and chemical treatment of Japanese knotweed, an invasive species, at the Woodend Cemetery. The assistant director of Public Works presented the project, which would involve cutting the knotweed and treating it with an aquatically safe herbicide. The project sparked a broader debate among commission members on whether to expand the treatment plan to include other invasive species like the tree of Heaven.

The commission also engaged in a conversation about the treatment of other invasive plants, such as buckthorn and bittersweet. The discussion revolved around the methods of treatment, the need for a plan to manage invasive species, and the importance of having representatives from the treatment company attend future meetings to address questions. The commission emphasized the necessity of data sheets on the chemicals used and the presence of a licensed applicator during treatment. A motion to close the hearing and approve the treatment plan was made, with several conditions attached, including the timing of applications and the requirement for plans and wetland surveys for future projects.

Regarding compliance issues, the commission discussed violation notices for properties on Willow Street and Pearl Street. For Willow Street, the owner agreed to remove a brush pile from an area with wetland characteristics. The Pearl Street case involved stream diversion and erosion problems. The commission debated enforcement strategies, with some members advocating for immediate action, including the possibility of daily fines if remedial work was not initiated by a set deadline. The commission discussed updating the enforcement order with new language to provide clarity on expectations and to emphasize the prolonged non-compliance.

The commission also considered a request for determination of applicability for structural upgrades on Belmont Street. The project included repairs and upgrades to an existing family room and deck, with discussions focusing on the soil and wetland vegetation. The hearing was continued, pending further information.

Another point of deliberation was the issuance of certificates of compliance for properties on Varney and Wither streets. The commission observed various non-compliance issues, such as wood chips and structures extending into buffer zones, and discussed ways to address these issues with the property owners. The presence of a metal mesh fence on Wither Street and its potential impact on wildlife was debated, with the property owner willing to adjust the fence to facilitate wildlife passage. The commission withheld the certificate of compliance until the discussed issues were resolved.

The health of a pine tree, adherence to the original planting plan, and whether existing non-native plants should be replaced with native species were additional topics at the meeting. The commission decided to withhold a Certificate of Compliance due to unresolved issues and noted discussions about upcoming meetings and volunteer activities.