The board’s primary agenda focused on the variance request from SRS Building Products, a distributor of roofing supplies, for its proposed location on Anel Howlet Road. Previously occupied by FedEx, the site falls within Yarmouth’s aqua protection district, raising concerns over the storage and resale of hazardous materials. Representatives, including Eliza Cox, an attorney for the property owner, and Bruce McGregor, the property owner principal, were present to discuss the proposed storage of up to 400 gallons of toxic materials, such as liquid bonding adhesives and diesel exhaust fluid.

A hazardous materials inspector detailed the company’s operations, noting that vehicle maintenance would be offsite, reducing on-premises risks. The board’s review included a site visit to an SRS facility in Plymouth, confirming that the materials proposed for storage in Yarmouth were consistent with those at the larger Plymouth site. The Yarmouth location’s smaller scale would host less hazardous material. The board was reassured by the proposed use of spill control pallets and contracted services with Clean Harbors for potential spill management.

Board members questioned storage protocols and emergency spill response plans, which were yet to be submitted. Emphasis was placed on employee training to ensure proper response to leaks or spills, with plans to verify preparedness during inspections. The board unanimously moved to recommend the variance to the zoning board, including stipulations for a spill response plan and a maximum storage limit.

The meeting’s other significant topic involved waiver requests related to the town’s plastic reduction regulations. Businesses such as Andrea’s West Yarmouth Fish and Lobster and Fox Den Coffee presented their cases, seeking extensions to use existing plastic stock. Andrea Shester argued the need for black plastic containers to ensure food safety, especially for shellfish, while Fox Den faced challenges with finding suitable gelato spoon alternatives that did not alter the product’s taste.

Little Caboose Corporation also requested a waiver, citing difficulties in sourcing compostable lids and straws that maintained the aesthetic appeal of their ice cream offerings. The board stressed the importance of accurate waiver applications, urging businesses to detail the types of plastics used and explored alternatives.

The Loft Restaurant, Hallet Store, and Spice Boss Restaurant and Grill were among other businesses seeking similar waivers. Discussions highlighted the complexities of transitioning to environmentally friendly options, with representatives expressing concerns over costs and supply chain reliability.

Stop and Shop representatives requested an extension for the plastic packaging ban, citing operational constraints in eliminating plastic from departments like prepared foods and bakery. They outlined their sustainability initiatives but noted that immediate compliance could impact food safety. The board encouraged further exploration of alternatives, approving a waiver with a request for updates on progress.

The board also addressed other community matters, including noise pollution regulations and a proposed compostable materials regulation. Dr. Kus compared noise pollution’s public health implications to secondhand smoke and urged the board to lead awareness campaigns and advocate for stricter measures, such as phasing out gas-powered equipment.