The Chrisman Farms development project was a central focus, as a representative detailed the revised civil site plan. Notably, the project plans to reduce the total unit count to 144 from over 160 by eliminating a building near Copper Beach, thus preserving wetlands. The new design includes two four-story buildings instead of three three-story ones, creating a buffer zone with a 150-foot wooded area adjacent to the railroad tracks. The development’s infrastructure plans, including a proposed pump station that would tie into a force main on Marian Drive, were reviewed. Average daily water flow was projected at 15,000 gallons, with a Title 5 flow estimate of 26,000 gallons. The project aims to align with state 40B affordability requirements by offering mostly two-bedroom apartments and a smaller number of three-bedroom units.

Traffic management and the development’s entrance and egress were a concern, particularly the one-way exit to Copper Beach designed to minimize local traffic issues. Private access gates were also planned, with some skepticism from residents about potential traffic spillover. The project representative expressed a preference for keeping the development private to mitigate such issues.

The integration of the sewer system was another major topic, with discussions about connecting the development to existing infrastructure. There were debates on the feasibility of a gravity-fed solution versus adding more pump stations, and the potential of boring under the railway with MBTA cooperation. Concerns were raised about existing capacity, particularly the pump station near the elementary school, which requires upgrades.

In parallel, the board addressed the need for a review of the sewer system by CDM, a consulting firm. The review would assess the flow implications of new developments and ensure that the existing force main could handle increased volumes without causing overflows. The board acknowledged the stress on the current system during peak times and the potential impact of multiple developments on the sewage infrastructure, especially the Jones River and Marian Drive pump stations.

Environmental concerns regarding the town’s water supply were also discussed extensively. The board emphasized securing wells, which supply half of the town’s drinking water and have seen rising nitrogen levels over two decades. The project focuses on areas like South Street and Millgate Street wells, with an estimated $250,000 needed for initial work. This includes a topographic survey to assess the environmental impact on about 250 homes and lots. The urgency of the project tied to the State Revolving Fund list for funding eligibility was highlighted, with a $6 million total cost estimate discussed.

The board also tackled the management of liquor licenses, noting the importance of maintaining control over transactions. A comparison was drawn to Boston’s highly valued licenses, emphasizing that all sales must go through the board. A discussion on betterments related to a local property underscored the need to reassess rates established before recent regulatory changes.

Infrastructure issues continued with reports of a broken pipe incident on Standish, leading to a significant discrepancy in water billing. A motion passed to adjust the quarterly bill to reflect average usage, abating a charge of $743.50. Unauthorized sewer modifications at a property on Main Street were addressed, with a motion supporting order for correction of violations unanimously approved. The board considered involving town council to ensure compliance before a condo sale on the property.

Operational challenges at the Marian Drive pump station were highlighted, with multiple pump failures reported over four years. A recent failure prompted the introduction of a standby pump to prevent improper wastewater discharge.