The most notable discussion revolved around a property on Water Street, where the commission addressed multiple compliance issues. Peter McKinnon, the owner, was represented by David Cowell from Hancock Associates. They presented an after-the-fact notice of intent for work previously done without permits. The property, which borders the Crane River, includes a retaining wall, a dock, and a shed—all subjects of the commission’s scrutiny. Cowell explained that damage to the retaining wall was caused by an auto accident, and repairs had been made using stone and mortar without expanding the original footprint. The commission also considered the construction of a new shed, compliant with zoning setbacks, to replace a non-compliant two-story structure previously removed on mandate from the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA).

The dock, constructed in 1989, lacked a Chapter 91 waterway license and any formal permitting. The commission was informed of plans to retrofit the dock with modifications to meet current compliance standards, including maintaining an 18-inch clearance above the mud at low tide. A marine consultant, Five Fathoms Consulting, was involved in assessing needed modifications, though the harbor master raised concerns about their qualifications since they were not a marine engineering firm. Despite this, Cowell expressed confidence in the consultant’s assessments.

The conversation shifted to technical details about the dock’s construction, such as its reliance on helical anchors, which the harbor master discouraged. The commission agreed to conduct a site visit to better understand the steep grade and other property characteristics. Public comments highlighted concerns about the dock’s potential to settle into the mud over time, which could violate clearance requirements. The commission decided to continue the public hearing to allow for further evaluation and documentation.

Another focal point was a proposal for a new pier at Nine Jacob’s Landing, introduced by Luke Fabri on behalf of applicant Jeffrey Bunk. The pier, aligning with Chapter 91 regulations, raised concerns from the Division of Marine Fisheries regarding potential impacts on the salt marsh and the environment. The construction plan involves using a pile barge at high tide to drive piles, minimizing impact on tidal flats. The pier’s proposed length, totaling 197 feet, was analyzed for compliance with occupancy limits.

The harbor master highlighted the need for the proposed pier to adhere to navigational safety standards, including maintaining appropriate setbacks from maintained channels. Alignment with existing docks was also discussed to prevent navigational hazards, although structural issues may arise from design adjustments. The commission plans a site visit to assess the proposal and its environmental implications further, continuing the hearing into January 2026.

Additionally, the commission reviewed a proposal for an addition on Wildwood Road, which includes a patio, pergola, fire pit, and shed. The design largely complies with local zoning bylaws, with a minor encroachment into a 50-foot no build zone. To mitigate this, a 240-square-foot area adjacent to the wetlands will be naturalized with plantings of sweet pepper bush shrubs. The commission approved a waiver for the encroachment, contingent on these ecological restoration efforts.