The commission began its discussions with a request for a determination of applicability for a septic upgrade at a property on Water Street. The representative from Zena Consulting Engineers, identified as Naz, detailed the need to replace an existing cesspool with a new septic system. The property, a four-bedroom home situated in a flood zone, presented unique challenges due to its small lot size and lack of nearby wetlands. Naz outlined the plan to install a new septic tank with a pump chamber and a retaining wall around the leaching field to maximize space. He emphasized the use of an advanced treatment system, specifically a microfast unit, designed to provide superior treatment compared to conventional systems, thus requiring a smaller leaching field. This upgrade would comply with Title 5 regulations and improve environmental conditions.

Addressing questions from the commission, Naz clarified that the site was too cramped to store any stockpiled materials overnight. The commission voted to issue a negative determination with the condition that any stockpiled materials must be covered.

The meeting then returned to a prior agenda item concerning the modification of an approved site plan at Thomas Set Way. The applicant’s representative, Robert, proposed an alternative solution to a previous requirement for the property’s fence. Initially mandated to maintain a six-inch clearance for wildlife passage, the new proposal involved cutting wildlife passages into the existing fence, creating four cut sections per side, totaling 40 feet on each side. This modification would constitute about 26% of the total fence length.

John, from Down Home Fence, acknowledged that his team had not been informed about the clearance requirement, resulting in the oversight. He described the proposed modification as a practical solution that would minimize environmental disruption. The commission engaged in a dialouge about the proposal’s implications, ultimately agreeing that the modified plan would meet environmental protection standards while addressing practical challenges. The commission approved the proposal with the condition that the cuts be made equidistantly and completed within one to two weeks.

The commission then turned its attention to the reorganization of its leadership roles. A motion was made to appoint Charlie as chair and Margaret as vice chair, which passed unanimously.

Subsequent discussions involved the Chase Road over 140 Bridge replacement project. The commission was informed that no vote was necessary, as their role was limited to providing comments on the project.

One of the more community-focused discussions involved a proposed $100,000 donation from Robert Dean, a member of the Bean family, for the maintenance of Porter Pasture. The commission had previously met with Mr. Dean and his family to discuss this donation, which would be earmarked for specific maintenance efforts rather than the general fund. The commission highlighted the need for addressing overgrowth and possibly creating a forest management plan due to past gypsy moth infestations that had led to significant tree loss.

The idea of creating a beach area was revisited, referencing local history where Mr. Dean’s grandfather had initiated a beach in the 1920s. Although the beach area had largely reverted to a natural state, there remained a relatively sandy region that could be utilized. The commission discussed establishing walking paths to enhance public use of the 18 to 20-acre area.

Concerns about an old cemetery on the property were raised, particularly regarding unrestricted vehicle access that could lead to disturbances. A proposal was made to install a rail fence to limit access to the cemetery.

Victoria mentioned existing litter issues, particularly fishing wire, and the need for trash receptacles. The gatekeepers suggested placing two trash cans at either end of the area to facilitate waste disposal. The commission debated whether to install signs encouraging visitors to take their trash with them or provide bins, ultimately favoring the latter for ease of use. Coordination with the local transport station for trash pickup was also discussed.

The commission then addressed illegal crabbing activities, particularly the catching of undersized crabs. The shellfish warden, also the Harbor Master, was tasked with patrolling the area to enforce regulations. The commission considered involving environmental police to monitor compliance.

Additional matters included reaffirming the chairman’s authorization to sign bills and payroll, reviewing minutes from a previous meeting, and addressing ongoing concerns about a property on South Main Street. The new conservation agent reported some natural recovery at the property but emphasized the need for a new timeline for required actions.