The board’s discussion on septic systems was driven by ongoing community concerns about installation delays, which have led to environmental hazards such as silt runoff and potential damage to the systems themselves. It emerged that complaints from homeowners about incomplete work prompted this initiative, as delays could render properties uninhabitable or unsafe.

A proposed policy aims to address these issues by setting a 15-day completion requirement for septic installations once work has commenced. The board was careful to ensure fairness in the policy’s application, acknowledging that delays could sometimes be beyond an installer’s control, such as adverse weather conditions or supply shortages. To mitigate potential misunderstandings, the board agreed that the 15-day timeframe should begin not from the permit issuance but from the actual start of installation. This adjustment aims to hold contractors accountable without unfairly penalizing them for circumstances outside their control.

The board also discussed imposing fines of $300 for violations of this policy, providing a necessary enforcement mechanism. A member emphasized the importance of formalizing the policy, saying it would give the board more authority to address non-compliance effectively. The conversation underscored the need for improved monitoring of ongoing projects to prevent delays from slipping through the cracks.

In parallel, the board addressed the illegal transfer station activity on Main Street, where a junk removal business was found to be operating without the necessary permits. This operation involved storing and sorting dumpsters on residentially zoned property, a violation of local regulations. The board issued a cease and desist order upon discovering the unauthorized activity and received a commitment from the business owner to halt operations and clean up the site.

The business owner, unaware of the regulatory breaches, cooperated with the board’s directive, agreeing to clear the site within seven days. The board discussed this timeline in detail, considering the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, which could disrupt the cleanup process. As a result, they decided to interpret the seven-day period as business days to accommodate the holiday schedule while ensuring minimal disruption to the neighborhood.

Throughout the cleanup discussion, the board recognized the owner’s efforts to responsibly manage waste by separating recyclables and donating items when possible. This approach aligned with the board’s understanding that the site was organized rather than chaotic, which facilitated a constructive dialogue about compliance and environmental responsibility.

Additionally, the meeting touched upon the board’s fee structure. Members reviewed comparisons with neighboring towns to ensure that Acushnet’s fees were equitable and competitive. This examination was part of a broader initiative within the town to assess and potentially adjust fees across various departments. The board also considered the financial implications of transitioning to online permitting, which could incur costs once grant funding concludes.

In closing, the board confirmed the date for their next meeting, scheduled for December 3rd, with an emphasis on accommodating public attendance given the ongoing PJ Keing matter.