The meeting began with Chairman Joseph Steiner outlining the judicial nature of the proceedings and the process for the evening’s hearings. Bristol Myers Squibb’s application was a focal point, seeking a D2 use variance, a C2 height variance, and site plan approval for the installation of the new tanks. Concerns about the visibility of the tanks and their proximity to a diesel fuel storage tank were raised in a previous meeting. To mitigate these issues, BMS proposed to plant 38 green giant arborvitae trees around the tanks and paint them to match the building.

During the proceedings, questions arose regarding the necessity of increasing the storage capacity from 6,000 gallons to 24,000 gallons, especially given that production was only expected to increase by 45%. The BMS representative clarified that larger tanks would minimize delivery frequency, reducing the logistical strain on surrounding neighborhoods. The representative emphasized that maintaining smaller tanks would require more frequent deliveries, which could be counterproductive.

Stan Gerbick, the director of engineering for BMS, testified about the operational needs for the increased storage capacity. Gerbick explained that the facility managed utility needs for manufacturing and processing, with potential future products in development. He noted that horizontal tanks would lead to significant delays due to custom manufacturing requirements and that vertical tanks were the preferred option despite requiring a variance.

Technical testimony was provided regarding the operational disadvantages of using multiple smaller tanks instead of larger ones.

Board members sought to clarify the proposed tank sizes’ implications for delivery logistics and safety concerns. A witness reassured that there were no recognized safety issues according to relevant fire protection standards, despite the proximity of a diesel tank. The landscape plan presented by civil engineer Peter McCabe included the installation of arborvitae trees to screen the tanks from nearby residences, addressing visual concerns.

The planner, James Kyle, reiterated the preference for vertical tanks due to their efficiency and the steps taken to mitigate visual impacts through strategic planning. The testimony concluded with no public questions or comments. A roll call vote yielded a majority in favor of the application, with the conditions of compliance with the board engineer’s memorandum and the removal of existing tanks once they were no longer in use.

Another discussion involved the property on Woodland Avenue, where applicants Pam P and architect Thomas Conway proposed to replace a deteriorating deck and upgrade the hardscape. The property was undersized for its zoning designation, necessitating variances for lot and building coverage. The board noted minimal concerns regarding impervious coverage and grading, leading to unanimous support for the proposal.

The meeting also addressed a case involving Christopher and Lisa Verelli, who proposed modifications to their home on Plymouth Road. The plan included creating a functional mudroom and redesigning the first floor to improve usability. The property faced challenges due to its undersized lot and classification as a through lot. The presentation emphasized adherence to zoning regulations and maintaining the neighborhood’s character, with the discussion expected to continue in future meetings.

Additionally, the board discussed a driveway issue where the applicant had not adhered to the approved permit guidelines. The driveway’s impervious coverage exceeded permitted limits, prompting concerns about stormwater management. The board decided to adjourn the discussion until the next meeting, allowing the applicant to present all necessary documents.