The board’s discussion on Main Street was particularly notable. The applicant sought an extension for the site plan review special permit to accommodate changes reflecting feedback from the Department of Transportation. The new plans aimed to improve safety and aesthetics by reducing asphalt and increasing landscaping, in line with community preferences. The Building Inspector provided a positive assessment, highlighting compliant parking spaces and improved access, especially for individuals with disabilities. However, board members expressed frustration over past delays in the project, emphasizing the need for an expedited timeline to avoid another winter with an unfinished parking lot.

Despite concerns about historical project delays, a motion for a six-month extension until April 7, 2025, was approved. The board stressed the importance of receiving official documentation from the state department to ensure the driveway’s approval, an aspect previously misunderstood during the project’s development. The applicant was encouraged to submit the revised site plan promptly to initiate the necessary public hearing and review processes.

Another topic was the proposal for a new Starbucks at Harbor Village, with a public hearing scheduled for November 4th. The board discussed obtaining a cost estimate for a stormwater peer review engineer, a standard practice to ensure environmental compliance.

In a related discussion, the board considered a residential duplex project on Depot Street Extension for age-restricted housing. The proposal, which requires a variance due to its 1.4-acre lot size—below the two-acre minimum stipulated by bylaws—received support from board members who acknowledged the benefits of increased housing options near downtown amenities. The board emphasized the importance of considering accessibility for future residents, particularly those using mobility aids.

The board agreed to support the housing project, highlighting its potential to enhance community living standards. This support will be communicated to the Zoning Board of Appeals, which will review the application further. The board’s unanimous support reflects a shared vision for accommodating diverse housing needs within the community.

Additionally, the board discussed a mandatory referral to the Zoning Board of Appeals for the Depot Street Extension project, involving the construction of three residential duplexes. This discussion highlighted a procedural anomaly, as the planning board was approached before the ZBA, leading to suggestions that the board defer its discussion until the ZBA completed its review.

The meeting also touched on routine matters, including the review of license renewals for 2025, which required feedback on compliance issues. No violations were found. The board also reviewed correspondence from the Massachusetts Regional Planning Commission regarding a study on potential passenger rail service expansion, which could improve regional connectivity.