The meeting opened with a detailed examination of the new developments proposed in Littleton, with particular attention to the King Street Commons project. Concerns were raised regarding the project’s Environmental Impact Report (EIR), which some participants felt did not adequately address the impact on current residents. There was a call for the inclusion of shuttle services and commuter options to mitigate potential traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. Discussions around the EIR also included the project’s proposed hotel, with questions about its compliance with height regulations. The board decided to compile a set of comments to address these concerns in a future meeting.

The board also engaged in a broader discussion on the architectural style of new developments. Opinions varied on whether the modern design aesthetic suited Littleton’s character. While some felt modern designs could attract new residents and businesses, others worried about losing the town’s historical identity. The emphasis was on adhering to the form-based code to ensure new developments align with community standards.

Infrastructure projects, particularly those related to water management, were another focal point. Nick Lawler, general manager of the Littleton Electric, Light, and Water Departments, provided an update on a infrastructure project involving a collection system, treatment plant, and effluent discharge site at the high school. Lawler noted challenges with construction due to ledge and unmarked utilities but expressed optimism about completing the project soon. He highlighted the project’s impact on local roadways, noting that paving operations had begun and would continue in various areas.

The meeting also addressed concerns about the capacity of the local water management system, particularly on King Street. As developments progress, there is a fear that the town might face capacity issues sooner than expected. With the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) not allowing new surface water discharge permits, suggested solutions like storing water in ponds were met with skepticism. The conversation shifted to stormwater permits for new developments, with specific references to the Leoli Company’s plans.

A public hearing on stormwater management for Harvard Avenue lots one and two saw further deliberation. Concerns were raised about conditions in the draft permit that seemed unrelated to stormwater management, such as electrical connections. Despite these concerns, the board approved the permit, agreeing that any necessary corrections could be addressed later.

The meeting continued with a public hearing on a proposed project on Beaverbrook Road, which involves developing two new house lots behind an existing property. The project requires a wetland crossing, and the conservation commission’s feedback necessitated revisions to the stormwater management plan. Concerns about tree removal in buffer zones were addressed, with assurances of mitigation plantings.