A substantial portion of the meeting centered around a proposed development project on Old County Road, which involved restoring a neglected lawn area and repairing a garage. Gregory Drake from Outback Engineering represented the applicant, Dakota Alonso. The project, which initially seemed routine, was complicated by its proximity to an intermittent stream and concerns over invasive vegetation. The Wetland agent supported the project, recommending approval with conditions to delineate the wetland line accurately.

However, the conversation quickly shifted to a more pressing matter: a related application for a notice of intent for a lot adjacent to 429 Old County Road. The proposed development included a single-family home and necessary infrastructure, maintaining a 25-foot setback from the wetland edge. This proposal raised multiple concerns among the Commission members and local residents, particularly regarding stormwater runoff and the structural integrity of proposed retaining walls.

The main issue highlighted was the potential for increased stormwater runoff from the proposed driveway into Old County Road. Local residents, including Sue Pier Madden and Fernando Gouard, voiced their concerns about flooding exacerbated by the development. Madden, whose family has a long history on the property, emphasized the severity of existing runoff issues, stating, “I can look out my window and see three inches of water running down Old County Road.” Gouard echoed these sentiments, describing the land as “very wet” and questioning how the proposed changes would affect surrounding properties.

Commission members discussed the feasibility of alternative stormwater management measures, such as a crushed stone driveway to reduce runoff compared to a paved one. The member noted the challenging nature of the lot, commenting, “I mean, we see a lot of bad lots and this is probably the worst one I’ve ever seen.” They emphasized the need for stormwater treatment measures, particularly where the driveway would meet Old County Road.

Attention then turned to the structural integrity of the proposed retaining walls. Concerns were raised about the height and materials of the walls, with a call for plans and engineering stamps to ensure safety and compliance. Without these details, the Commission could not support the plan. As one member stated, “I think there are a few things of detail we need to render that decision accurately.” The Commission ultimately decided to request a continuance for further review, scheduling the next discussion for October 8th.

In another notable segment of the meeting, the Commission addressed an enforcement order related to an unauthorized stone path constructed across a salt marsh. The path, made of PE stone, was deemed a violation, as it was created without proper authorization. The Commission discussed the implications of this unauthorized construction, with one member expressing disbelief, stating, “I’m kind of appalled that they did this.” The Commission speculated that the stone might have been transported to the site by hand rather than machinery, which would mitigate some environmental concerns but still required rectification.

The enforcement order mandated the removal of the stone path by hand to avoid further damage to the marsh. The Commission emphasized the necessity of issuing the enforcement order and discussed potential repercussions for the resident in future permit applications if compliance was not met.

Lastly, the Commission discussed a Notice of Intent filed by Paul Schmidt for property at 220c Fisherville Lane. Civil engineer Alan Haru presented the proposal, which involved licensing an existing pier and constructing a new 20-foot gangway and an 8×16 foot float with float stops. Haru confirmed that there were no eelgrass habitats within the work area, and the project would comply with standard conditions. Chris, providing a report, reiterated the project’s details, and the Commission voted unanimously in favor of the proposal.