A central topic during the meeting was the decision by Habitat for Humanity to implement a board of health-approved Innovative Alternative (IIA) septic system for the project. This system, which will be situated on lot two of the site plan, addresses previous concerns discussed in earlier meetings. The decision to abandon the access road, which freed up funding for the IIA system, was met with approval from one board member who had previously criticized the access road as a “complete waste.” This reallocation of funds was seen as a positive step towards enhancing the project’s viability.

In addition to the septic system, the board addressed several logistical and design issues. Mail delivery for the new homes will be facilitated through a cluster box unit, as recommended by the Falmouth postmaster. The location of a bus stop was also confirmed, with high school students classified as walkers due to their proximity to the school. Trash collection plans were discussed, with an emphasis on encouraging families to utilize the town’s waste management facility. The presence of a dumpster at the ReStore raised questions about its potential misuse, but it was clarified that the dumpster is intended for Habitat for Humanity’s use only.

The board also explored the topic of local preference for the project, which has been approved by the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities for two of the units. Additionally, concerns about the absence of a washer and dryer hookup in the basement were addressed in the revised plans. A suggestion to add a roof over the side door of the houses was debated, with Habitat’s director of construction initially resisting the idea due to aesthetic concerns. However, a commitment to install the roofs was eventually made.

A significant part of the discussion revolved around the placement and safety of a bus stop associated with the project. The need for a pull-off area for parents picking up children was emphasized, particularly for the safety of younger students. The board discussed the possibility of creating a simple gravel area for this purpose, which would allow parents to wait in their cars and thereby enhance safety during bus pick-up times.

Architectural design standards for the proposed homes were another focal point. The board members acknowledged the project’s design quality, noting the inclusion of elements like pilasters and window trim as unusual for 40B projects. The use of materials such as cement fiber cladding and white cedar shingles was highlighted as part of this commitment.

The absence of downspouts in the drainage plans for the proposed homes was raised as a concern, with board members emphasizing the need for effective water runoff management. The drawings included gutters but lacked indication of downspouts, which was deemed necessary for proper drainage management on-site.

Public comments were invited, with Christina Brody from Salt Hay Road encouraging board members to visit a recent housing development called Willlet Way, describing it as beautiful. Richard Johnson from Ambitz Avenue raised a question about access management across the ReStore driveway. It was clarified that a rope, rather than a gate, would ensure residents’ access to the area.