At the forefront of the meeting was the discussion on the proposed stormwater management bylaw. The board deliberated on the revised bylaw, which included changes such as the addition of language to address solar fields, a mandate for two public hearings before adopting regulations, and clarification on exemptions for land disturbance. One of the key points of contention was the exemption for land disturbance and its potential effects on property owners who plan to subdivide their land for family housing. This topic was of particular interest to residents, as it directly affects their property and future development plans.

Another issue discussed was the process for granting waivers for certain stormwater bylaw requirements. This decision may have implications for property owners and developers in Acushnet, as it dictates the level of flexibility they have in meeting the bylaw’s requirements. Furthermore, the board made a motion to recommend the stormwater management bylaw to the Board of Selectmen for consideration at the upcoming spring town meeting.

The Robinson Road solar project was another topic that garnered considerable attention during the meeting. The board approved the extension of the contractor’s work hours on Saturdays from 8 am to 12 pm to 8 am to 4 pm for a period of four weeks. This decision came with the provision that the contractor could seek further extensions if necessary. The discussion also raised the issue of screening for the solar project. A neighbor’s concern about the lack of notification regarding the project led the board to elaborate on the types and quantities of trees being planted as a screening measure. The board clarified that these new trees would not replace those that had been previously removed.

Public comments revealed a sense of frustration among residents concerning the notification process for the solar project and its effects on their properties. Residents were particularly concerned about the lack of privacy due to structures near the road. In response, the board discussed the possibility of erecting a fence to address these privacy concerns. A member of the board stated that they would look into the matter and provide an update at the subsequent meeting.

Additionally, there was discourse about missing notification cards for the solar project. The chair of the board assured a resident that the issue would be investigated and an update would be provided. This discussion of notification discrepancies speaks to a larger issue of communication between the board and the community, which has evidently been a point of contention.