The primary focus of the meeting was on the proposed work at the Mansfield airport, involving both Norton and adjacent Mansfield areas. The project seeks to address the current condition of the runway and stub taxiways while implementing stormwater improvements. A representative identified as Joe Rogers from GCA presented the details, explaining that the project would remove approximately one and a quarter acres of existing pavement, replacing it with vegetation. This alteration is aimed at enhancing stormwater management and meeting Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) guidelines.

The presentation included plans that marked the specific areas of pavement removal with a waffle texture on the provided map. Updates to safety signage and runway beacons were also part of the plans, alongside improvements to an existing stormwater swale. Approximately 3,500 square feet of asphalt from the buffer zone in Norton is slated for removal. The commission confirmed that the project would not lead to new clearing but would involve temporary disturbances and minor regrading as stipulated by the FAA.

During the discussion, questions arose regarding the nature of restoration efforts, specifically whether disturbed areas would return to a natural habitat. It was clarified that while these areas would revert to grass, they would not be restored to a natural state. The commission members reached a consensus that the proposed work was minor and should not cause significant disruptions. Consequently, a motion to close the hearing on the airport project was unanimously approved, with expectations that an order of conditions would be prepared by the next meeting, modeled on previous similar projects.

Another discussion item was the potential shift from virtual to in-person meetings. The commission debated the merits of maintaining Zoom meetings versus returning to physical gatherings, highlighting concerns about public participation. The convenience and accessibility of remote meetings were noted as advantages, particularly for individuals located far from Norton. The commission agreed to continue virtual meetings until a formal directive mandated otherwise, acknowledging the need to ensure broad accessibility for all interested parties.

In addition to the airport project and meeting format discussions, the commission also addressed several other projects. The hearing for file number 250-1175 concerning 225 South Worcester Street was continued, following assurances that stormwater management and mitigation concerns had been adequately addressed. Peter Lavoy from DNL Design Group presented updates, including construction sequence details and temporary disturbances related to retaining wall and culvert installations. The impacted area, totaling 1,200 square feet, is set for restoration to wetland species. An earth berm was proposed to manage runoff effectively, and it was confirmed that the development would not increase water runoff rates or volumes towards neighboring properties or wetlands. The commission unanimously agreed to continue the hearing until April 28.

For file number 250-1176 concerning 47 Oak Street, the commission reviewed an updated plan regarding a visual barrier. The hearing was closed unanimously after confirming compliance with all requirements. Similarly, the public hearing for file number 250-1168, related to the redesign of the intersection of Route Branch 23 and North and South Worcester Streets, was closed after receiving necessary documentation regarding hooded catch basins.

By the meeting’s conclusion, the commission had addressed two sets of orders. The first set, concerning 47 Oak Street, required a condition to ensure the wetland area was restored to its natural setting after contamination with rubbish material. The draft orders were accepted unanimously. The second set of orders pertained to the intersection of 123 and Worcester streets and followed standard procedures with project-specific conditions. This draft was also approved without dissent.