The most pressing topic discussed was the notice of violation issued to Toll Brothers regarding stormwater runoff at Elwood Farms. The commission was informed by staff that a storm on March 5th exacerbated existing runoff issues, leading to silt entering off-site basins and degrading the condition of Fitch Road. Rich Kirby from LEC Environmental and Ted Merchant from Toll Brothers attended the meeting to discuss the violations. They attributed the turbidity problems to a failure in the outlet control structure and frozen ground conditions, which hindered effective runoff management. Kirby detailed a multi-step response plan, including replacing a faulty wooden board with a steel plate and rubber gasket, installing additional erosion control measures, and increasing street sweeping frequency from once to three times weekly.

Despite these efforts, commission members voiced frustration with the recurrence of these issues, pointing out that this was the third occurrence of similar runoff problems. The commission stressed the need for proactive measures and criticized the tendency to blame contractors. They emphasized that the responsibility lies with the developer and project overseers, calling for tighter oversight to ensure compliance with sediment control measures.

The commission questioned whether the basin had to be pumped out for the new installation, to which Kirby confirmed that it was necessary to achieve an appropriate water level. They also raised concerns about the basin’s ability to infiltrate water effectively. The commission’s discussions highlighted a pressing need for ongoing attention to stormwater management, especially with the potential for back-to-back storms.

The conversation also highlighted the recurring nature of violations associated with Toll Brothers’ projects. A commission member expressed exasperation, stating a reluctance to see Toll Brothers involved in future Hopkinton projects due to the ongoing issues. The lack of fines or penalties for previous violations was questioned, and members suggested that Toll Brothers should offer reparations to the community for the harm caused to water resources. It was proposed that pending applications be held up until satisfactory erosion control measures are established.

In another discussion, the commission reviewed a project near Lake Masano involving an increase in impervious surfaces. Concerns were raised about previous hardscape work done without a permit, and the commission emphasized the necessity for compliance with new standards aimed at improving water quality. The applicant proposed mitigation plantings and expressed willingness to work with the commission to address concerns. The commission stressed the importance of maintaining a 50-foot buffer zone and suggested further exploration of the property’s past conditions using aerial photography.

Further discussions addressed modifications to a site plan, focusing on installing a rip-rap pad at a sump pump discharge point to prevent soil erosion. The commission requested an updated plan reflecting these changes accurately, emphasizing the importance of precision in documentation.

The meeting also included a request for a Certificate of Compliance for a project on Falcon Bridge Drive, which involved several modifications from the original proposal. The commission appeared to have resolved most outstanding items and agreed to issue the COC contingent upon confirming erosion control removal.

Lastly, the commission discussed the format of upcoming meetings, considering the potential end of remote meeting provisions. They decided to hold an in-person meeting on April 8th, with the possibility of reverting to a remote format for the meeting on April 29th. The commission also announced securing a booth at the farmers’ market for community engagement and sought volunteers for this initiative.