The meeting’s primary focus was the approval of a stormwater management permit for a development project on Townsend Harbor Road. Public comments from Carl Strathmeer, representing Hickory Hills Lake landowners, highlighted concerns over the potential environmental impact on lake water quality. Strathmeer questioned the proposed changes which could lead to a 36-37% increase in runoff during storm events, affecting downstream property owners and waterways. He challenged the adequacy of the “maximum extent practicable” standard in the stormwater management plan, particularly with the alteration of runoff direction rather than a reduction in volume.

The board members clarified their regulatory limitations, explaining that their role was to ensure developments did not worsen existing conditions rather than improve them. The board also discussed the possibility of enforcement if significant harm to water quality was documented post-construction. Ultimately, the board approved the stormwater management permit, incorporating all standard conditions, after a roll call vote confirmed unanimous support.

The conversation then shifted to modifications on Fula Road, where Chris Anderson from Hanning Engineering presented changes to a site plan due to unsuitable materials found at the site. The proposal involved reducing the size of a planned warehouse distribution facility and addressing environmental challenges due to historical uses of the site, including dumping. The board acknowledged the need for a peer review, particularly concerning stormwater systems and drainage, and authorized the creation of a 53G account for this purpose.

Public comments from resident Dave Rogers raised concerns about the long-term liabilities associated with the unsuitable materials. The board clarified that while their role was limited to site plan approval and stormwater management, they would follow up with relevant parties to gather information. Rogers emphasized the importance of communication and the need for a clear point of contact to prevent future misunderstandings, urging a streamlined process for addressing environmental concerns.

In addition to environmental matters, the board discussed compliance with the MBTA communities act. The act mandates certain density requirements for towns, and the board reviewed potential development locations to align with these requirements. There was a consensus that the Tritown property, zoned for higher density, could be adjusted to meet these requirements. Public feedback was largely supportive of the board’s direction.

The meeting also addressed administrative changes within the board. The departure of administrative assistant Logan O’Connell, who joined Open Gov, was noted as a loss for the town. The board discussed reorganization, with a roll call vote determining that the current chair would continue in their role until the next reorganization.