The primary focus of the meeting was the site plan review for a group home on Evergreen Street, a property undergoing renovations by L1 Adult Behavioral Health Services of New Bedford. The representatives from Elwyn, including David Solin, vice president of real estate and facilities, faced scrutiny over unresolved issues delaying the project. These issues included inadequate parking that failed to meet ADA standards, an outstanding tax balance preventing permit issuance, and a non-compliant septic system requiring connection to the municipal sewer.

Further complicating matters was the need to verify an adequate water supply, given a moratorium on new water connections. Solin expressed frustration over the lack of clarity and communication, particularly concerning the water supply issues, stating, “I was trying to explain… the woman who was just talking to me was chippy and cutting me off,” indicating a breakdown in discourse. The planning board chair emphasized that the meeting was a courtesy despite the tax issues and inquired about the timeline for resolving the tax payment. Solin acknowledged the need to address this matter promptly.

The meeting also addressed concerns from local residents. Chris Verer, a neighboring property owner, expressed concerns about the lack of notification to abutters and the potential impact on safety and access to their driveway. He read a letter underscoring the importance of communication with neighbors about developments affecting their properties. Another resident raised environmental concerns, particularly about the impact on nearby wetlands, emphasizing the need for careful maintenance of easements during winter months without using de-icing agents that could harm the ecological balance of the nearby Blackwater Swamp.

In parallel, the board discussed the recently approved ADU bylaw, which had received the Attorney General’s approval. The bylaw, passed at the previous town meeting, was now in effect, with stipulations that ADUs not be used as short-term rentals. Properties exceeding 900 square feet require a special permit, while smaller units are exempt from local zoning regulations. The town must make timely amendments to local bylaws, with formal recognition anticipated by February 7th.

There was notable frustration regarding state regulations surrounding ADUs. Concerns were raised about the state’s decision to allow rentals without owner occupancy, a departure from previous regulations aimed at keeping such units in family use. One individual remarked, “once again we’ve been let down by our leadership and we’ve been let down by the state because these things are absurd,” reflecting a sentiment that local governance was being undermined. The state suggested the possibility of multiple ADUs on a single property, each requiring a special permit, raising skepticism about how these changes could alter the town’s character.

The meeting also addressed issues related to zoning bylaw formatting, which had inadvertently excluded certain uses, necessitating a vote at town meeting to rectify. This was highlighted by a recent application from a barber shop that revealed discrepancies in compliance with new bylaws.

The Bring Road solar project was another topic of discussion, with a site walk conducted alongside solar company representatives. Agreements were reached on enhancing safety measures, including fencing and protective coverings around high-voltage wires. Concerns were raised about the actual height of the wires, which drooped lower than anticipated, posing safety risks, particularly for nearby cranberry harvesting operations. Electrical inspectors expressed discomfort, leading to delays in the project’s approval process.

As the meeting concluded, a typographical error in the agenda regarding the next meeting date was corrected, and the minutes from the previous meeting on October 28, 2024, were approved unanimously. Wishes for a happy holiday season and a motion to adjourn were also unanimously passed.