The meeting commenced with a focus on a new environmental monitoring tool designed to predict and alert residents about combined sewer overflow events. This tool aims to improve public awareness and safety, particularly for boating and swimming activities, by providing timely updates on potential hazards such as E. coli. Additionally, the tool’s capacity to filter data by town includes information on electric vehicle (EV) chargers and the number of EVs registered in Newbury. A poll revealed that 549 out of approximately 6,700 registered vehicles in the town are electric. This statistic surprised attendees, highlighting a growing trend in EV ownership within the community.

The board then discussed two regional studies open for public comment until October 16. The Vision Zero Plan, a federally funded initiative, seeks to enhance roadway safety by reducing injuries and crashes across towns, aspiring to achieve a “zero” standard for traffic incidents. The challenge of reaching this goal was acknowledged during the meeting. The second study, “Marac Valley Moves,” aims to promote active transportation—such as walking, biking, and scootering—by prioritizing regional improvements, enhancing public health, and reducing reliance on personal vehicles.

In local development updates, TJ Melvin from Millennium Engineering presented two significant projects. The first involved a request for modifications to an approved site plan for a property on Newport Turnpike, owned by Ono Bavaro Family Realty, LLC. Melvin detailed the filing of a new notice of intent with the Conservation Commission due to the expiration of the previous order of conditions. This included clarifying the wetland line and installing erosion control mats. The updated plans had just been submitted, and the board decided to continue discussions at the next meeting after receiving comments from peer reviewer Joe Shaka.

Melvin also addressed the project on Green Street, where Crane Properties sought approval for the as-built plan and the release of bonds. Melvin confirmed that the site work had been completed, with houses sold and landscaping undertaken. The as-built plan was submitted for review, with a site walk by the Conservation Commission scheduled for the following Saturday. Board members considered attending to ensure comprehensive understanding before the final review.

On staffing updates, the planning director announced the hiring of a new assistant planner, Daniel Loro, set to start at the end of October. Loro, currently a staff planner in Salem, was selected from a pool of qualified candidates, and the board expressed enthusiasm for his addition to the team.

The board also highlighted upcoming events, notably on October 17, when multiple important meetings are scheduled. One meeting will address flood risk and shoreline resilience, with staff from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute presenting strategies for homeowners. Another meeting will be hosted by the Greater Newport Housing Choice Coalition, featuring guest speaker Amy Danna, who will discuss the intersection of zoning regulations and social equity.

Efforts by the Open Space Committee to engage new members were acknowledged, particularly as they work on updating the town’s open space and recreation plan. A long-planned project to establish a trail at Caldwell Farm is finally moving forward, with the trail expected to be publicly accessible, though it will not accommodate bikes or horses. The board expressed enthusiasm for the project, noting its potential as a valuable community resource.