The most discussion centered around a public hearing for an amendment to Special Permit SP-2009-11, requested by Francesco Pilla for his business, Frank Rilla Landscaping, located on Westwood Avenue. The amendment sought approval for a home-based trade within the RB zoning district, a matter continued from the August 20, 2024, meeting. The board scrutinized the compliance of the business with existing permit conditions, particularly concerning vehicle storage and operational hours.

A letter from a neighbor, Matthew CR, dated August 5, 2024, was entered into the public record, raising concerns about noncompliance. Antella Risha Manzy, representing her parents, defended the request, arguing that the town had adequate information on their vehicles through excise tax records. However, board members noted discrepancies in the number of vehicles observed on the property, exceeding the permitted count of eight. One board member stated, “I walked the outside of the property about two weeks ago; I counted more than eight vehicles.”

The board emphasized the need for compliance with the special permit’s conditions as a prerequisite for any amendments. Issues highlighted included the storage of vehicles and equipment, adherence to business operation hours, and the overall appearance of the property. Concerns were raised about the property resembling a junkyard if not properly managed. The board decided to conduct a site visit before making a decision, scheduling it for October 1, 2024, to ensure all conditions were being met before any amendments to the special permit could be considered.

Another topic was the discussion regarding the proposal for commercial kenneling in the industrial zone. An attorney for the applicant presented a draft bylaw, outlining various standards for kennel operations. The proposed language included definitions to be added to Article 11 of the special permits, specifying that commercial kenneling would encompass a broader range of animals beyond just dogs and cats. This prompted concerns from residents about the potential inclusion of livestock, leading to a suggestion to limit the definition strictly to dogs and cats to prevent confusion.

A motion was made to amend the proposal, and the board agreed to recommend approval to the Town Council with the revised definition. The conversation also covered operational standards such as staff-to-dog ratios, fencing requirements, and soundproofing measures to ensure the kennels would not negatively affect the surrounding community.

The meeting also addressed amendments to the East Longmeadow zoning bylaw concerning ground-mounted photovoltaic installations. The board reviewed Article 10, which governs solar installations, and proposed modifications to include parking canopies in the permitting process for medium and large-scale installations. Recommendations were made to exempt roof-mounted solar systems from site plan review, provided they did not create significant glare or reflection. Definitions for parking canopies were clarified, suggesting they cover at least 1,800 square feet and accommodate ten parking spaces, to ensure compliance with state law and avoid overly restrictive regulations.

In addition, the board discussed regulations related to recreational vehicles (RVs) and accessory dwelling units (ADUs). There was a consensus on the need for clear definitions to encompass both RVs and motor homes, addressing a gap in the town’s bylaws regarding long-term parking or storage. The urgency to develop a bylaw for ADUs by February 2, 2025, was also acknowledged, driven by the Affordable Homes Act signed into law on August 6, 2024. This act mandates municipalities to allow ADUs by right, with specific size and entrance requirements, and prohibits certain regulations such as owner occupancy requirements for either the ADU or the principal dwelling.

The board expressed concerns about potential density and traffic impacts from ADUs, particularly in residential areas. They discussed the importance of regulating design and placement, including setbacks, to maintain community standards. The need for legal counsel to review the new bylaw drafts was emphasized to ensure compliance with state law and prevent future conflicts.

Finally, the board touched upon drone regulations, considering the implications of federal requirements and the necessity for local regulations to address privacy and trespassing concerns. Discussions included the need for comprehensive local bylaws that cover all types of drones, regardless of weight.