The permit approval process for LSC Forax LLC’s energy facility was the focal point of the meeting. The board discussed the continuation of a public hearing concerning the company’s request for special permits, which involved modifications to earlier permits granted in 2020 and 2018. The petitioners, Sam Bologn and Timothy Voluone, were present, and the board sought to ensure that all conditions met the requirements of the zoning bylaws. A July 25 noise recommendation submission was referenced, confirming that previous questions raised had been satisfactorily addressed. The board emphasized clarity in the conditions of the special permit proposal, particularly regarding the necessity of presenting any changes to the ZBA to determine their significance. Although there was initial debate over whether this condition needed explicit statement, the board agreed it would ensure clarity for the applicant.

The board also focused on the applicant’s obligations to complete reviews mandated by relevant agencies, particularly in compliance with Eversource’s safety protocols. The facility’s hazard mitigation analysis was a point of discussion, highlighting fire prevention measures, including a fire detection system connected to the Amherst fire department. These safety protocols were critical to ensuring the project did not pose undue risk to the surrounding area.

Concerns about potential nuisances such as noise and pollution were addressed by noting the facility’s adequate distance from neighboring properties, which would mitigate visual and auditory impacts. The board also evaluated parking and signage adequacy, concluding that the site was not traffic-heavy, thus negating the need for additional signage. Considerations for vehicular and pedestrian movement within the site were thoroughly reviewed, with members agreeing on the adequacy of off-street loading and unloading areas.

The meeting further delved into the battery storage project associated with the facility. The board examined the project’s alignment with various sections of the zoning bylaws, such as waste disposal and drainage. The conservation commission had reviewed the proposed changes and found no concerns, allowing the project to proceed without additional conditions. The board confirmed that the facility’s location posed no risk of flooding and that stormwater management plans were robust, with an infiltration trench designed to manage runoff effectively.

Particular emphasis was placed on the facility’s environmental compliance, where the board found that the project aligned with the general purposes of the zoning bylaws and the goals of the master plan, especially in promoting alternative energy sources.

The board moved to streamline the process for any future changes to the proposal, eliminating a preliminary meeting requirement and directly linking changes to the necessity of a special permit. This modification aimed to simplify the process and ensure prompt attention to significant project modifications.

In the discussion about the proposal’s compliance with environmental and zoning regulations, the board examined landscaping and lighting provisions. Proposed measures included the use of crushed stone and a seed mix to promote vegetation growth, and lighting designs intended to minimize light intrusion on adjacent properties. Ensuring that all site lighting would be directed downwards was agreed upon to prevent light trespass onto neighboring properties.

The board concluded the discussion with motions to adopt the findings and conditions for approval, both of which passed unanimously. The approval of the special permit for ZBA 2026-01 was finalized with a unanimous vote.