The project representative presented revised plans aimed at addressing previous feedback, particularly concerning land subject to flooding and vernal pool adjacency. Despite the proposed addition of an impervious liner to the basin, commission members remained skeptical about the site’s suitability for development. They highlighted the potential destruction of crucial upland habitats that are vital for species relying on the vernal pool for breeding. Suggestions were made to elongate the basin’s shape and relocate it further from the vernal pool, which the representative agreed to reconsider, stating, “We’ll see.”

The commission’s dialogue reflected ongoing challenges in harmonizing development proposals with conservation principles, particularly in areas with delicate ecosystems. The chair reiterated the necessity of considering alternatives that better avoid and minimize impacts on the environment.

In other business, the commission handled several requests for certificates of compliance. For file number 250-146 on Charlotte Avenue, a full certificate of compliance was issued following confirmation of the floodplain certificate and the establishment of grass on the property. The commission also approved a certificate for file number 250-772 on South Worcester Street, despite the project not being pursued by the previous owner due to signature acquisition issues.

Additionally, the commission discussed file number 250-119, involving prior orders connected to new orders for South Washington Street. A motion to issue a full certificate of compliance was approved, integrating any pre-existing work into the new orders.

The commission addressed the order of conditions for file number 250-1173 on South Washington Street. Unique considerations were noted regarding the stormwater management system, with discussions on the necessity of submitting all related documentation. A proposal to require weekly Stormwater Pollution Prevention (SWIP) reports during construction was debated and ultimately agreed upon.

As the meeting drew to a close, discussions turned to scheduling future meetings, particularly during the summer months when attendance is typically sparse. The idea of reducing the number of meetings in July and August was floated, with members recognizing the potential difficulty in maintaining a quorum. It was agreed that meeting dates would be reassessed, considering the anticipated end of terms for two members and potential large projects expected in July and August near the extended stay on South Washington Street.