The primary focus of the meeting was the presentation on the stormwater utility and its proposed Enterprise fund. Dan, a representative from the work group, outlined the need for better funding to manage stormwater in Ayer. The current funding level of approximately $240,000 per year was deemed insufficient, leading to a reactive approach to infrastructure repairs. The work group recommended increasing the budget to $700,000 per year to implement a proactive strategy and tackle significant capital projects.

Dan explained that the proposed fee structure would charge single-family residential properties a flat fee of $95 annually, based on equivalent residential units (ERUs). For non-single-family residential properties, fees would vary according to the impervious surfaces, with one example showing a commercial property incurring over $2,000 in fees. The proposed credit policy would allow property owners to reduce their stormwater fees by up to 50% through specific practices or improvements. The fees would be billed quarterly alongside water bills.

The board members asked clarifying questions and engaged in discussions to understand the implications of the new funding structure. They emphasized the need for equitable solutions that account for varying impacts on stormwater management based on property characteristics. The board unanimously approved the motion to recommend the establishment of the stormwater utility fund.

In addition to the stormwater utility, the board also discussed a series of land use and zoning matters. They addressed an Approval Not Required (ANR) plan for Daniel Leine on Pine Ridge Drive, involving a parcel adjustment to align a septic system. The board approved the plan unanimously after confirming that the neighboring property owner agreed with the proposal.

A land swap between properties at 14 and Madigan Lane was also approved. This swap aimed to resolve an encroachment issue where a driveway extended onto another property. The board found that the swap met all zoning requirements and approved the request unanimously.

The acceptance of Shaker Pond Road was another topic of interest. The board reviewed documentation confirming that all items on the Department of Public Works’ punch list had been completed. They moved to recommend the acceptance of Shaker Pond Road at the upcoming special town meeting, which passed unanimously.

The meeting also covered a public hearing concerning a project at zero Scully Road. The board discussed site plan approvals and stormwater management permits, emphasizing the importance of findings when voting on approvals. They clarified that the caretaker’s quarters on the property could only be occupied by the business owner or an employee.

A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to discussing proposed zoning amendments for the upcoming fall town meeting. These amendments included changes to inclusionary housing bylaws, which require affordable units in rental developments. The board deliberated on the practical implications of these changes, with some members expressing concerns about whether the amendments would adequately encourage both subsidized and affordable housing.

Public comments were welcomed, with Janet Provus from the Affordable Housing Committee expressing appreciation for the collaborative efforts leading to the proposed bylaw. She highlighted the achievements in affordable housing within the town, including the creation of a housing production plan and an affordable housing trust. Provus underscored the necessity of the inclusionary housing bylaw as a means to capture a portion of new housing developments and direct resources toward the town’s affordable housing goals.

The board also discussed the potential development of smaller homes and cottage-style housing, with a presentation on affordable housing and cottage-style homes scheduled for October 7. They reviewed the MBTA multifamily overlay district, focusing on off-street parking regulations and the integration of the overlay district with existing zoning regulations. Concerns were raised about including the West Ayer Village in the overlay, but it was noted that this area, along with the downtown form-based district, meets the necessary density criteria.

As the meeting concluded, the board moved to close the public hearing and transitioned to discussing upcoming projects, including an informal meeting with developers concerning a new project proposal featuring significant open space and trail connections. The meeting adjourned with a motion, thanking participants for their contributions and efforts throughout the session.