The most prominent agenda item was the notice of intent for a new Raising Cane’s restaurant on Endicott Street. The restaurant, designed to replace a recently vacated Fidelity Investments location, plans to include a 3,400 square foot building with a dual drive-thru and 29 parking spaces. Representatives from Bowler Engineering presented the project, emphasizing improvements to stormwater management on a site previously lacking sufficient infrastructure. The design aims to reduce impervious surfaces by 17% to enhance natural infiltration, a vital improvement for the area’s ecological health.

The proposal includes native plantings along the southern property line, which will help mitigate trash flow into the adjacent Waters River. Additionally, deep sump hooded catch basins and vegetated filter strips are planned to manage stormwater more efficiently, alongside an underground infiltration system or surface basin. These measures are expected to address existing runoff issues that have eroded the banks and degraded site conditions.

The commission expressed satisfaction with the proposed stormwater management enhancements. However, they noted the importance of ensuring clear visibility of boundary lines and setback indicators in project diagrams, especially for visually impaired individuals. The planning board is set to review the project further, with approvals contingent on comprehensive stormwater assessments. The commission unanimously approved a motion to issue an order of conditions for the project, allowing it to move forward.

Another topic was the ongoing project at 12 and Cherry Hill Drive, where progress has been made in removing pavement within the 50-foot buffer zone around wetlands. Jill Man, representing Millipur, presented the redesigned lot layout, which successfully eliminates approximately 730 square feet of pavement in sensitive areas. However, 58 square feet of pavement remains due to planning board requirements.

Discussion centered around stormwater management strategies and the management of invasive species. The proposal includes a plan to replace invasive plants with native species to improve water quality. A vegetative border with boulders is proposed to prevent unauthorized access to the wetlands, aligned with planning board conditions. Questions from the commission focused on the specifics of the proposed vegetative border and the design of parking lots B and C. The commission emphasized the importance of thorough engineering reviews before final approval, acknowledging the seasonal urgency of the project due to asphalt plant operations.

A consensus emerged on the need for a plansting plan, including a list of native trees and shrubs, to clarify compliance with the commission’s requirements.

Additionally, the commission reviewed another project on Riverside Street, which involves replacing a deteriorating pier and seawall. The new design includes a fixed pier and gangway leading to anchored floats, with plans to replace the seawall with concrete segmental walls. The commission discussed potential impacts on local ecosystems and salt marshes, with assurances that work would remain contained within existing lawn areas.

The project at Riverside Street will incorporate the harbor master’s feedback to ensure navigational safety and environmental compliance. A motion to continue the hearing for this project to the next meeting was unanimously approved, allowing time for further review and adjustments.

Lastly, the commission addressed the ongoing challenge of filling a vacant fifth member position. While there is general interest in joining town boards, specific interest in the conservation commission remains limited. The commission encourages community involvement and urges interested residents to step forward.