The meeting began by addressing a compliance issue at Wildwood Circle, where a play structure was built without necessary permits. The structure, located within jurisdictional areas of a vegetated wetland and an intermittent stream, was constructed by the current homeowner, Dan Kleet, after an unpermitted pool and deck had been removed by a previous owner. The commission focused on the increase in impervious surface coverage from 9% to 17.3%, which raised concerns about potential harm to resource areas due to runoff.

Brad Holmes, representing the homeowner, explained the situation and the need for the Request for Determination of Applicability (RDA) to bring the property into compliance. The commission discussed potential solutions, such as reducing the impervious coverage by adjusting the play structure’s construction. Spacing the boards of the deck was suggested as a way to bring the coverage under the 15% limit. The members debated whether a variance should be required or if mitigation might be an option, although it was noted that mitigation is not typically utilized during an RDA process. Ultimately, the commission agreed to continue the discussion, allowing time to explore compliance options and conduct further measurements of the impervious surface area.

The discussion then turned to a project at Two Brancher Avenue, where additions to a single-family house were proposed within buffer zones to coastal resource areas and land subject to coastal storm flowage. The project aimed to enclose an existing overhang at the rear and add a new entry point at the front of the house. To mitigate the increase in impervious surfaces, part of the existing driveway and brick walkway would be removed. The updated plan included smart vents around the foundation to stabilize the structure during flooding events.

Concerns about runoff and its potential impact on nearby eelgrass beds and shellfish growing areas were raised. Members stressed the need for effective runoff management. The commission highlighted the importance of balancing project approval with environmental protection, ultimately agreeing to proceed cautiously.

Another topic was the ongoing compliance issues on Rabi Road, where a retaining wall was constructed without permits. Communication breakdowns with the building department delayed progress, and the commission expressed frustration over incomplete documentation. A consensus was reached to give the property owners additional time to comply, with a potential enforcement order to be issued if no progress was made by March 27th.

The board also discussed restoration efforts at the Blackwater bog complex. The alterations included filling in ditches and creating channels to redirect water flow. Members were optimistic about the project’s ecological benefits, despite the current appearance of the site. A timeline was in place to complete the in-water work by March 15th, with further work planned to address trail conditions.

Lastly, the commission noted an announcement from the Kingston Open Space Committee regarding its search for a new member. The committee plays a role in managing conservation properties and aiding in the implementation of the town’s open space plan.