The most prominent topic discussed was the proposed revisions to the town’s fuel storage regulations, which have not been updated since the 1980s. These changes aim to enhance safety by requiring the replacement of in-house storage systems with double-wall fuel storage tanks or ensuring they provide 110% containment capacity. This requirement applies to any fuel storage system located within structures such as dwellings or barns and is intended to prevent spills by utilizing impervious materials like concrete or masonry. The feasibility of achieving 110% containment with in-house systems was questioned, with members agreeing that existing systems would need to be replaced with double-walled tanks. This is particularly significant for large tanks, as the containment would need to be approximately 1,200 gallons for a 500-gallon tank, posing practical challenges.

The board discussed the transition of existing above-ground storage tanks during property transfers. New stipulations allow property buyers and sellers to apply for exemptions if plans involve demolishing and rebuilding the property or converting to a different heating system. This process requires written agreements and joint responsibility for the replacement or removal of tanks, featuring a timeline submitted to relevant authorities.

Clarifications were sought regarding the status of underground fuel tanks. While new installations are generally prohibited, they may be permitted with a special variance, and existing tanks must be removed within 25 years. The board planned to review the final draft of these regulations at a future meeting before holding a public hearing.

Another agenda item was the approval of a variance application for the McMullen Family Trust on Main Street. The proposed development involves removing existing structures to build a four-bedroom home on a 36,990 square foot lot. The standard regulations allow for a three-bedroom septic system, but the proposal includes a 1500-gallon septic tank with microfast IA technology, which reduces nitrogen and accommodates the additional bedroom. Representatives explained that the system’s nitrogen load would be eight parts per million, lower than the 10.17 parts per million for a standard three-bedroom system. The board approved the variance unanimously, subject to conditions including specific testing and monitoring due to the nitrogen-sensitive area and a deed restriction limiting the property to four bedrooms until it can connect to a municipal sewer system.

The meeting also addressed a variance request from Teague and Bond, which was tabled due to the absence of the representative. Additionally, concerns were raised about an existing property exceeding bedroom limits, with a proposal to demolish the existing house as a potential compliance solution.

In other business, the board discussed short-term rental regulations, with renewal notices planned for mid-January and expiration set for February 28. Unregistered property owners would receive certified letters, and the board considered creating pamphlets to inform the public about these regulations. The availability of free COVID-19 test kits was also noted, with distribution limited to one box per family, unless there are multiple residents in a household, to be available through the holiday season.

The board also approved minutes from their previous meeting, which involved discussions on community health services and issues surrounding failed septic systems. These systems, while not rendering homes uninhabitable, could impact short-term rental registrations, affecting property owners’ ability to rent until compliance is achieved.