The proposal was presented by Mr. Van CH from the Stormwater Utility Working Group, who emphasized the inadequacy of current funding mechanisms. Presently, the town allocates about $240,000 per year for stormwater management, which only allows for basic repairs and limited projects. “Without going too far into it, the backbone of the stormwater infrastructure out there is in very poor condition,” he noted.

This structure would generate the targeted $700,000, with residential properties incurring a flat fee while non-single-family residential properties would be assessed based on their specific impervious area. The equity of this approach was highlighted, as properties with larger impervious areas would pay more.

A key component of the proposal is a draft credit policy aimed at incentivizing property owners to implement stormwater treatment solutions. This policy allows for credits of up to 50% for properties that meet specific criteria, such as reducing impervious surfaces or installing approved stormwater treatment systems. For example, a property owned by Katana Spagner, which had installed an underground stormwater treatment system, would likely qualify for this credit.

The Commission engaged in a discussion about the proposed funding amount, the adequacy of $700,000, and the implications for staffing and project management. Mr. Van CH confirmed that the proposed amount includes necessary staffing allocations for effective stormwater management. The importance of public hearings and thorough community feedback was emphasized as part of the process leading up to the town meeting vote. The Commission ultimately expressed unanimous support for the stormwater utility Enterprise fund, signaling their backing for the initiative.

In addition to the stormwater utility proposal, the Commission reviewed several other notices of intent for local projects. One notable discussion involved a project at Scully Road, where the removal of invasive species such as knotweed and burning bush was a primary concern. The Commission debated whether the property owner could handle the maintenance and monitoring of invasive species post-removal, ultimately deciding on an annual inspection by an agent to ensure compliance.

Similarly, the Commission approved notices of intent for projects on Gasan Road, involving the addition of trees and signage to mitigate the impact of land clearing. The approval included specific conditions to ensure the protection of native species and compliance with local bylaws.

The meeting also addressed a significant transmission line improvement project by New England Power Company, represented by TRC Companies. This project aims to enhance a 37-mile transmission line, with 4.5 miles running through Ayer. The improvements include access road enhancements, maintenance activities, and structure replacements to create a more climate-resilient system. The representatives from New England Power Company assured that no new access roads or impervious surfaces would be created, and that tree clearing would be minimal, involving only brush mowing within the right-of-way.

The project has undergone extensive permitting processes, including filings with the Army Corps of Engineers and consultations with various agencies. Concerns were raised about the waiver request for the 50-foot no disturbance zone, necessary due to the positioning of some existing structures. The representatives confirmed that temporary construction mats would be used in wetland areas and that all work would be restored to pre-existing conditions post-construction. Approximately 84,000 square feet of temporary impacts to bordering vegetated wetlands are anticipated, with plans to return these areas to their natural state afterward.

The Commission also discussed upcoming community events and ongoing conservation efforts. A community event scheduled for October 5th near Town Hall will feature educational components and the distribution of wildflower seed packets. Additionally, preparations for planting pocket forests at Sandy Pond School and the high school were noted, with considerations for visibility during plowing.

Lastly, the Commission addressed broader concerns about conservation restrictions and environmental stewardship in the context of local developments. Discussions included the management of invasive species, the importance of establishing baseline conditions before new housing developments, and the potential for future conservation restrictions.