The meeting’s most debated topic centered on the fence dispute on Morris Island Road. The property owners’ representative highlighted the need to modify the existing stockade fence, which replaced a historically open split rail fence, now the subject of litigation in superior court. The representative proposed updating the original plan by Ryder and Wilcox to include adjustments for wildlife passage and fence removal. Commissioners acknowledged the legal complexities, noting the commission’s limited jurisdiction over property law matters. However, they emphasized the importance of considering environmental impacts, such as flood management and wildlife movement. Suggestions included adding openings to the fence to allow access, but these discussions were complicated by ongoing legal disputes. The consensus concluded that future plans must document the necessary adjustments for legal compliance and wildlife considerations.

Beyond the fence issue, the commission addressed a request for a field change at the Oyster Pond condo site on Kelly Lane. The proposal involved shifting from open cut excavation to trenchless technology to minimize the impact on the sensitive buffer area, a decision driven by the site’s archaeological sensitivity. The commission approved the field change.

The meeting also covered various requests for orders of conditions, including significant projects like 340 Widow Road and Riverview Drive. At 340 Widow Road, Bassing Harbor Realty Trust sought approval for demolishing an existing dwelling and constructing a new one with a swimming pool within the coastal bank buffer zone. The commission agreed to mark the pathway with woody vegetation instead of fencing. For 697 Riverview Drive, plans for a rear yard pool terrace within the resource area were approved despite the absence of property representatives.

Additionally, the commission reviewed a notice of intent for a property on Morris Island Road, involving a swimming pool, walkway, and other landscape modifications. The project aimed to restore native plantings and manage invasive species, with proposed changes resulting in a net decrease in jurisdictional area. The removal of an asphalt basketball court featured in the plans, with the area behind it restored to a fescue microclover lawn. Discussions included the removal of dyed mulch and replacement with composted mulch to foster plant establishment.

A notable item was the request for a determination of applicability for a property on Morris Island Road, where a septic system upgrade was proposed due to failure from groundwater proximity. The commission approved the request, considering the system’s placement and adherence to resource area regulations. Concerns about a nearby cedar tree’s impact during excavation led to the suggestion of planting replacements.