The Birch Meadow Park project was a focal point of the meeting, with discussions highlighting the integration of an advanced stormwater management system to handle runoff from the new basketball courts and modular classrooms. Ryan Persal, the town engineer, and Stephen Chrisfelly presented plans to manage stormwater, including a subsurface infiltration system designed to prevent excess runoff into nearby wetlands. Holly Ganszer, a civil engineer, elaborated on the hydraulic connections, confirming that stormwater would flow into the wetlands before reaching the outfall.

Community and commission members raised concerns about the proposed pathway’s proximity to the wetlands, particularly its encroachment on the 25-foot buffer zone. Discussions revealed disagreements over the measurement accuracy of the proposed path’s distance from the wetlands, sparking a debate over whether to reconsider paving plans to protect the area. Questions were also raised about the new path’s potential impact on local ecosystems, with suggestions to explore alternative routes that would minimize environmental disturbance.

Further scrutiny was applied to erosion control measures. A review of the current plans called attention to a continuous erosion control barrier that could obstruct natural water flow into the wetlands. A commission member acknowledged this concern, agreeing to adjust the plans to include an opening in the barrier.

Attention was also directed toward the proposed removal of trees within the project site. Two trees near the modular units were marked for removal, raising questions about whether they could be relocated rather than cut down. The tree warden assessed the health of trees in the area, noting that some were unhealthy and required removal for safety reasons. However, the total number of trees slated for removal remained unclear, prompting further inquiry into replanting plans.

The commission addressed public concerns regarding the lighting and its potential impact on local wildlife and residential areas. Residents expressed apprehension about light spillage into wetland areas and the necessity for the lighting system to comply with dark sky requirements. Suggestions were made to implement a cutoff time for the lights, potentially at 9:00 PM, to reduce disturbances to nearby residents. There was a consensus on the importance of balancing recreational lighting needs with community comfort and environmental considerations.

Discussion extended to the playground area, where the current use of rubber mulch was debated. Concerns about the environmental implications of rubber mulch led to a proposal to transition to a poured-in-place rubber surface, which would be more durable and environmentally friendly. Participants underscored the need for careful selection of materials to ensure both safety and environmental integrity.

In addition to these discussions, the commission reviewed a third-party consultant proposal for stormwater management on Main Street, which received favorable reviews from town staff. The proposal, presented by Horsey Whit, was approved unanimously.

The meeting also addressed ongoing violation notices, particularly concerning a retaining wall on Pearl Street. The commission emphasized the need for compliance with approved designs and explored the potential for legal action if regulations were not met. Concerns about soil erosion and the integrity of the retaining wall highlighted the necessity for immediate action, with proposals for temporary stabilization measures such as seed mixes and jute netting.

This lack of coordination impeded the commission’s ability to plan volunteer projects, leading to frustration among members. Despite these obstacles, the commission secured commitments for specific tasks, such as repainting handicap spaces and providing wood chips.