A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to discussing the status of emergency access from Somerset Avenue to a development on the Westerly side. The primary concern was the practicality and safety of the proposed access route due to traffic issues and land constraints. One proposal involved installing a mechanical gate to control traffic and allow only emergency services to pass. This gate would include a key box for fire department access, though there were concerns about potential delays during emergencies. The debate revealed differing opinions on the effectiveness and safety of the mechanical gate. A member expressed hesitation, noting that requiring firefighters to exit their vehicles to retrieve a key could waste valuable seconds in an emergency. Alternatives, such as an electrified gate with a keypad, were discussed, though there were concerns about reliability in winter conditions. The possibility of a lightweight gate that could allow fire trucks to push through if necessary was also mentioned.

The board discussed the need for the project proponent to consult with the new police chief for updated insights that may differ from the previous administration’s perspective. This was considered essential due to potential changes since the previous chief’s letter. The discussion also touched on the narrowing of the access route and its implications for emergency service vehicles navigating the area. The complexity surrounding emergency access, property rights, and compliance with existing regulations was acknowledged, with a consensus that decisions should prioritize safety and efficiency for emergency responders. The board agreed that further discussions and consultations with relevant parties, including the fire department and police chief, would be necessary before finalizing the emergency access plan.

Drainage issues, particularly concerning Basin number three at Eagle Terrace, also featured prominently in the meeting. It was revealed that this basin, originally designed to hold water, had been altered, leading to water being redirected away from the basin and into the woods. This diversion resulted in the basin having no water, which led homeowners to create a playground in the area. The board recommended notifying the homeowner to remove the playground equipment and reconfigure the area to restore the basin’s original function. There were additional concerns about a catch basin at the end of Eagle Terrace that was “a couple inches above grade,” leading to ponding issues during winter. The proposed solution was to lower the catch basin top to eliminate these problems temporarily, with plans to adjust it again once the top coat is applied.

The conversation also addressed the logistics of communicating with Weston and Samson, the engineering firm involved, about the best way to handle the pavement issues. It was noted that the existing pavement base exceeded the originally planned thickness in various locations, raising concerns about compliance with modern standards. The board emphasized the importance of careful planning and communication with involved stakeholders, particularly given the urgency of the approaching winter season.

Adding to the drainage discussions, a resident, Lisa Poat, whose property on Stone Gate Landing has been flooding for years, expressed frustration with the ongoing issue, highlighting that the problem predates recent construction and provided photographic evidence dating back to 2010. Poat questioned why her issue had not been resolved despite previous conversations with the board and a history of complaints. The dialogue became contentious as Poat insisted on accountability, pressing for a concrete plan to address the flooding. The board member facilitating the discussion suggested that Poat and a project representative meet outside the meeting to devise a solution, emphasizing collaboration. However, Poat remained unconvinced, seeking immediate answers.

Another resident, identified as TC, raised concerns about an emergency gate discussed in a previous meeting, arguing against its installation due to potential hindrance to emergency services. The board acknowledged the urgency of this concern and noted the need for further discussion involving input from current police and fire chiefs regarding public safety implications.

Additionally, the board discussed issues related to a road project, including the timing of asphalt work and the quality of work performed during winter conditions. Concerns were raised about the potential complications if the town assumed responsibility for the road and the quality of work completed in less-than-ideal weather. The board also addressed lighting around the property, noting the installation of solar lights and the elimination of the need for underground wiring previously managed by homeowners.

The topic of sidewalk construction was another point of contention, with discussions indicating that only one side of the road was initially planned to have a sidewalk. The lack of clarity in the original lot plans regarding sidewalk placement led to confusion among homeowners. It was noted that a formal request for modification of the comprehensive permit would be needed to address any changes to the sidewalk requirements, with public input deemed essential.