At the forefront of the meeting was the proposed dredging project at Willow Pond, which straddles the town of Brookline and the City of Boston, involving the removal of 1,200 cubic yards of sediment to improve the habitat for aquatic species. The project plans detailed a hydraulic dredging method to minimize impact on wildlife, including measures to prevent sediment migration and to protect the area during construction. Notably, Zoo New England had conducted an ecological survey focusing on the three-spine stickleback fish and, while no sticklebacks were found, their potential habitat remained a consideration in the project’s execution.

The Commission scrutinized the project, particularly the dewatering process, sediment handling, and the risk of potential contamination. The presenters outlined the historical impacts on the pond, preliminary sediment sampling results, and the process for managing any areas of significant petrolecontamination under the Massachusetts Contingency Plan (mCP). Concerns were also raised about water quality permits and the need for an updated Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) certificate.

Discussions extended to the functionality of storm drains and the restoration of a long-dysfunctional drain to improve water levels and habitat conditions. The Commission proposed an outlet control structure to maintain historic water levels and debated the necessity of special conditions for invasive species removal beyond standard methods.

Another focal point was the notice of intent for a mixed-use development project involving a paved parking area. The applicant addressed concerns raised by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and neighborhood groups, emphasizing changes made in response to previous feedback and the project’s stormwater management strategy. The Commission awaited final DEP comments before proceeding with any decisions.

The Commission also engaged in a dialogue about stormwater standards and the design impact of a proposed pipe solution, eventually voting to close the hearing and issue order conditions, with varying levels of confidence expressed among members about compliance with standards.

Emergency repair protocols were scrutinized following a sinkhole and damaged electrical conduit in a wetland resource area. The Commission reviewed images and engineer statements confirming the repairs but expressed concerns over the lack of stamped plans and the need for future repair protocols. Discussions touched upon the commission’s jurisdiction and potential alternative repair methods.

The meeting also addressed shipyard repairs, a request to amend an order of conditions for a turtle sculpture at Marine Park, and the approval of a certificate of compliance for construction in East Boston. Administrative matters, such as an enforcement order and the approval of meeting minutes, were also handled, concluding with a motion to adjourn