The meeting began with an in-depth examination of a project on Oyster Pond Road, presented by Tom Bunker on behalf of the Melissa B. Bedford Trust. The proposal involved raising an existing single-family dwelling and constructing a new one, along with additional structures like a garage, shed, deck, and patio. Central to the proposal was the reduction of resource area coverage from 7,717 square feet to 6,079 square feet, aligning with a commitment to ecological responsibility. The planned upgrade of the sewage disposal system to meet Title 5 regulations, with provisions for future innovative technology, was a highlight of the project. Bunker emphasized the reduction in coverage as a positive ecological step, noting that certain trees and shrubs would be removed, with replacements planted according to staff recommendations.

Commission members expressed concerns about the removal of existing structures, such as a picket fence and chicken wire, and the status of a potentially vulnerable dogwood tree. The dialogue underscored the importance of maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements, and the chair stressed the need for clarity in the proposed planting plans. The commission eventually moved to close the hearing, taking the matter under advisement while awaiting revised plans.

Attention then shifted to a project on Hinkley Road, where Chuck Roland outlined plans to create a berm, renourish, and revegetate a coastal dune while grading a coastal beach. The proposal aimed to address erosion issues exacerbated by a deteriorating seawall. Ben Fairbanks contributed to the discussion, detailing the selection of plant species such as American Beach Grass, fragrant sumac, and sweet fern, chosen for their deeper root systems to enhance the area’s resilience against storms. The commission focused on the ecological integrity of the project.

A separate project on Edgewater Drive East, presented by Capen Island Engineering, involved demolishing an existing dwelling and constructing a new one. The site, located within a velocity zone and an AE flood zone, required careful consideration of tidal septic systems and modifications to existing conditions. The commission raised concerns about tree removal and the need for a tree mitigation proposal, which the representatives agreed to address before the next hearing.

The meeting also touched on a project featuring a vinyl sheet piling bulkhead on Garet Avenue. Mike Belli from Fourth Engineering presented the proposal as a solution to replace a failing timber retaining wall. The commission scrutinized the impact on the surrounding salt marsh, with assurances provided that the design would permit adequate water movement to sustain the ecosystem. Despite these assurances, staff and members expressed reservations about potential risks, emphasizing the importance of monitoring and potential adjustments to ensure the restoration’s success.

Another notable discussion involved a proposed dock extension and handling vegetation removal without permits on Davis Neck Road. The commission addressed an enforcement order due to the absence of the involved party, leading to a continuance until the next meeting. The dock extension, designed to prevent improper boat placement, received approval from the Harbor Master, with the commission ensuring compliance with environmental standards.