The most discussion revolved around the updated cistern policy presented by the Town Planner. The new policy, developed by Chief St. Team, now applies not only to residential and commercial subdivisions but also to private developments in areas lacking adequate public water supply. The Town Planner emphasized the necessity for appropriate safeguards to ensure public resources are sufficient for such projects. This update is crucial as it impacts site plan reviews and the overall safety and sustainability of new developments.

An in-depth conversation also took place about the Som Mountain Campground, a recurring topic over the past year. The meeting with Chief Rob Le and Samuel Morton focused on the campground’s infrastructure needs and potential changes following amendments to the non-conforming uses and structures bylaw. The Town Planner highlighted proposals for significant campground unit expansions, emphasizing the requirement for two access points to ensure public safety and efficient response times. A proposed secondary access through Grand was discussed, with stakeholders already engaged in preliminary conversations. The Planner suggested phasing the development to manage improvements over time.

The board also tackled an inquiry regarding a property known as “5% Circle,” currently classified as a woodworking shop. A prospective buyer’s interest in converting it into an automobile body repair shop raised questions about zoning bylaws related to public garages. The Town Planner noted the complexities of such a conversion, particularly in terms of intensifying the use and the property’s non-conforming status. The suggestion of requiring a special permit underscored the need for clarity on zoning restrictions, especially concerning separation distances from residential zones.

Attention then turned to a project involving properties identified as 0772 and 774 College Highway. Dr. W’s project, which had already begun construction, had undergone modifications, including the removal of second-floor residential units from the plan. This change affected parking calculations, shifting from 82 required spaces to 84 proposed, with a total of 86 being calculated. The board discussed whether this alteration constituted a minor amendment to the original proposal, with the Town Planner noting that the changes could necessitate further review or approval from the board.

The meeting also covered a proposed mixed-use project, which included both residential and warehousing components. One board member expressed that the mixed-use aspect was a critical trade-off for allowing warehousing, emphasizing the importance of encouraging mixed-use developments that included housing. Discussions revealed concerns about the implications of removing the residential component and the necessity for modifications to undergo a formal amendment process, potentially leading to a public hearing.

The procedural aspects of modifying the existing special permit were also addressed. While modifications typically require a similar process to the original application, the board acknowledged that using the existing plan as a foundation could streamline adjustments. However, the mixed-use component had been a significant incentive for the project’s approval, and its removal could complicate future approvals.

The timeline for moving forward with the mixed-use project was another point of discussion, with the board recognizing the need to balance community feedback and the nature of the proposed modifications. Despite the complexities involved, the board members expressed a willingness to explore options that aligned with the town’s objectives regarding mixed-use developments.

In other business, the board addressed a public hearing related to 250 College Highway, which had not yet received feedback from the attorney general, leading to a request for continuance until September 24. The motion for continuance was unanimously approved. Additionally, the Town Planner mentioned ongoing work related to a special permit denial for 77 College Highway and acknowledged Samantha Brunon’s efforts in compiling meeting minutes.