The meeting commenced with a continued site plan review and special permit discussion for the Clem’s Way solar array project. Representatives from Clemway Solar LLC and Reenewables addressed the board, outlining modifications made since the previous meeting. These included replacing wire mesh fencing with a solid stockade fence for better screening, and adding tree plantings in areas deemed insufficiently covered. The board inquired about the maturity of the trees to be planted, expressing a preference for more mature specimens to provide immediate coverage.

A critical portion of the discussion focused on stormwater management. Concerns were raised about the infiltration ability of rear infiltration basins, particularly given previous issues with stormwater management in the area. Board members emphasized the necessity of practical solutions to prevent flooding, recalling past experiences where inadequate management led to flooding of neighboring properties. Suggestions included adding an outlet to allow ponds to drain between storms.

Further discussions highlighted the project’s alignment with stormwater standards. A letter from GAF Engineering confirmed compliance, but board members sought further assurance through tests to assess infiltration rates under storm conditions. The board recognized their responsibility to prevent flooding and emphasized the need for credible engineering assessments.

Public comments from residents, particularly Kevin Fado, underscored community concerns. Fado emphasized potential impacts on his property should the retention ponds lead to increased water runoff. He expressed skepticism about assurances given by the professionals involved, referencing past negative experiences with similar projects. Fado’s insistence on maintaining current water flows led to a broader discussion on the board’s responsibility in managing runoff and ensuring compliance with protective regulations.

The board agreed that reviewing watershed maps was essential to assess impacts on neighboring properties and to ensure robust stormwater management plans. They aimed to prevent adverse effects and maintain existing water flows.

In addition to stormwater management, legal and logistical aspects of the project were discussed. The board addressed the location of the septic system and its relation to a defined swale, with assurances that runoff would be directed away from neighboring systems. Concerns about tree removal and replanting standards were also raised, noting that trees with a diameter of 12 inches or greater were required to be replanted elsewhere in town.

The legal status of Clem’s Way was another point of discussion. A legal opinion from KP Law did not definitively conclude whether it constituted a way. The board emphasized the importance of clear 911 access for emergency services, agreeing on the necessity of renotifying abutters due to the lengthy duration since the original application.

Concerns about visual impact and economic feasibility of the project were also discussed. Some residents expressed dissatisfaction over the planned aesthetics, emphasizing that visual concerns remained valid despite the presence of wooded areas. The board acknowledged the need to balance visual impact with economic realities dictated by state law.

The board also addressed the proposed fence around the solar array, which would allow wildlife passage. The effectiveness of this measure was questioned, with board members reiterating their commitment to mitigating visual and drainage impacts.

As the meeting concluded, the board agreed to remove disputed solar panels from the proposal. However, several concerns, particularly regarding spillway and stormwater management, remained unresolved. The public hearing was continued to the next meeting on December 4th, with a commitment to address outstanding issues while ensuring compliance with regulations.