The most discussion centered around an amendment request for an order of conditions on Orleans Road. John and Mary Boil submitted the application to install a small fiber roll array at the base of a bank to combat erosion caused by a recent storm. Lindsay Cook, representing the applicants, explained that the fiber rolls aimed to secure the bank while restoring native vegetation, including Eastern Bacchus and American Beach Grass.

However, the commission raised concerns about the necessity of the fiber rolls given the presence of an undocumented railroad tie wall at the bank’s base. Members debated the functionality of the retaining wall, with Lindsay stating that heavy storms had caused water to overtop the wall, leading to erosion. Commissioners pointed out that the proposal lacked clarity regarding the relationship between the fiber rolls and the retaining wall, causing confusion about their intended purpose. Concerns were also voiced about the fiber rolls’ durability, as exposure to UV light and salt water could lead to rapid degradation. Lindsay assured the commission that nourishment would be provided to cover the fiber rolls, along with erosion control blankets and additional plantings.

The commission emphasized the importance of updating plans to ensure clarity on the placement of proposed elements, especially since these plans serve as the basis for final inspections and approvals.

In another notable agenda item, the commission reviewed a Notice of Intent from applicants Jessica Guo and Philip Chu for reconstructing a pier on Kent Road. David Clark of Clark Engineering presented the project, detailing that the pier, originally licensed in 1981, required replacement due to deterioration. While the new pier would occupy the same position and maintain the same number of pilings, the float would be reduced to its original licensed length. Clark reported no eelgrass within 20 feet of the structure during a site visit.

Concerns were raised about the existing float’s size and the materials for the new pier. Commissioners also highlighted the presence of an old silt fence on the site from previous construction and emphasized the importance of removing all debris before issuing a certificate of compliance. Neighboring property owners Sandra and Joshua Shapiro submitted a letter of support, voicing no objections and expressing satisfaction with the area’s improvement. The commission agreed to continue the discussion on the Kent Road project to October 9, 2024, following a unanimous motion.

The commission also discussed a proposal for a swimming pool installation at a residence owned by the Plai family. The project involved constructing a pool within the 50 to 100-foot buffer zone, primarily in a lawn area, and required a variance due to exceeding the 35% maximum allowable disturbance. The proposal included a retaining wall around the pool to minimize grading. Commissioners expressed skepticism about the necessity of the pool’s location, suggesting alternative placements, such as the front of the house, to better comply with regulations. The discussion concluded with an agreement to consider a revised plan with a smaller pool or different location, with the item continued to the next meeting on October 23.

Additionally, the commission reviewed a Notice of Intent for a property on Harbor View Road, focusing on invasive plant species control and native plant restoration on a Coastal Bank. Teresa Sprag of Blue Flex Design, representing the property owners, outlined a plan to manage approximately 6,300 square feet of the area, primarily within the 50-foot buffer zone. The proposal included removing 11 previously pruned oak trees and restoring the area with native species such as Eastern red cedar, scrub oak, bayberry, and beach plum. Commissioners raised concerns about the number of trees being removed and the limited replanting strategy, emphasizing the need to adhere to a two-for-one tree replacement requirement. The discussion was continued to October 9, 2024, to allow revisions to the restoration plan based on the feedback provided.

The meeting also addressed various requests for Certificates of Compliance and extensions for ongoing projects. Notably, a request to continue the hearing for a property on Cedar Street to October 9, 2024, was approved unanimously. The commission also reviewed requests for 24 and Salt Pond Road and Kent Road, ultimately approving the issuance of Certificates of Compliance for both properties.