The most contentious discussion centered around an application for parcel H13 on Captain N’s Way submitted by Minglewood Homes Incorporated. The proposal involved constructing a dwelling and a swimming pool within the riverfront area and the buffer zone to a Coastal Bank. David Clark from Clark Engineering represented Minglewood Homes, providing background on the vacant lot, which has a history as a cranberry bog and is adjacent to a perennial stream. Due to the site’s constraints, a driveway would be needed through the riverfront area to access the construction site, and the proposed pool and patio would extend into the 50 to 100-foot setback from the Coastal Bank.

Clark highlighted that the project remains compliant with site coverage regulations and that the Board of Health had approved an additional bedroom for the property, with a nitrogen-reducing septic system to be installed. However, the commission raised several concerns, particularly regarding the extensive tree removal and the large retaining wall along the pool. A more detailed tree inventory was requested to clarify which trees would be removed and their sizes, with concerns about the justification for these actions. There was also confusion over the proposed grading around the house and the need for the large retaining wall. Despite these concerns, the commission’s focus remained on ensuring compliance with environmental regulations while accommodating the development.

Another topic was the request for an order of conditions for a project on Robin Way, which involved driveway reconfiguration and the installation of a septic system. The applicant proposed various revisions, including limiting mitigation to an isolated wetland and opting for a cut-and-pull method for invasive vine control instead of using herbicides. The commission discussed the implications of using herbicides, with one member expressing a preference for non-chemical methods. The board was generally satisfied with the proposed changes, and a motion to close the hearing and approve the amended order was made and passed.

A request for determination of applicability for a property on Strong Island Road was also presented, with the applicant aiming to replace an existing patio with either a deck or pervious pavers and make changes to front landscaping. The commission noted discrepancies regarding the actual change in coverage, with some members suggesting that the increase was closer to 145 square feet based on the details provided. The designer was instructed to update the plan to accurately reflect these changes.

The commission then reviewed a request for determination of applicability on Homestead Lane, which was subsequently withdrawn by the applicant, John W. and Stacy S. Brooks Trust. Following this, a new request on Squanto Drive was introduced, concerning the pruning of six oak trees and the removal of invasive plants that were affecting the trees’ health. The commission members engaged in a thorough discussion regarding the proposed work, with several members expressing the importance of preserving the trees and questioning the necessity of the pruning. Despite some reservations, the consensus leaned towards approval of the pruning as a benefit to the health of the trees.

Another notable discussion involved a residential project along the Oyster River. The commission scrutinized the proposed site layout, particularly the necessity and length of retaining walls and the size of the proposed driveway and parking area. Concerns were raised about the proximity of the pool to the no-disturb zone, with suggestions to reduce its size to increase the distance from the sensitive area. The need for a detailed lighting plan for the proposed patio and pool was also emphasized, given the sensitivity of the area near the Coastal Bank.

Concerns about maintaining naturalized areas, managing invasive species, and ensuring sustainable landscaping practices were echoed in multiple discussions.