The commission’s decision on the Bonanza Road project was preceded by a debate on the environmental implications and alternative methods suggested to the property owner. Despite the initial desire to fill the wetland, the commission steered the discussion towards less invasive solutions, ultimately approving the project with the stipulation that there is no Vernal pool present. This topic was one of many matters addressed during the meeting.

Another point of discussion concerned the request for determination of applicability (RDA) for work at 119 and Mill Road. The work involved the installation of catch basins and drainage lines aimed at resolving water accumulation issues. The commission approved this request with the condition of installing erosion controls.

Similarly, at Roberts Field, the commission evaluated and approved an RDA for the installation of a subdrain and pipe to manage water sheet flows across the field. Here too, erosion control installation was mandated.

The commission also discussed a proposal by Stop and Shop supermarket company at 23-27 Summer Street to connect residences to the public water supply. The proposal was designed to address chlorinated solvents found in the groundwater, and the commission closely scrutinized the potential environmental impacts, despite the minimally invasive nature of the directional drilling techniques to be used.

This included the request for a continuance for a Notice of Intent (NOI) for the project on Pine and Frederick Street, which was required to address substantial requirements from the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and concerns related to natural heritage and endangered species.

Further, the commission expressed the need for final versions of the Soil and Groundwater Management Plan (SGMP) and RAM Plan before proceeding with the draft order of conditions for an unnamed project. Concerns were raised about soil contamination and the tracking of soil by trucks, with the commission proposing to hire an external consultant to monitor compliance.

The meeting also addressed the ongoing work on Princeton Street, where concerns about erosion control and water levels in the pond were raised. The commission debated the extent of tree cutting and whether it was within the wetland boundaries, highlighting the need for improved communication with the water district to address public concerns.

In other discussions, the commission considered whether certain areas should be classified as isolated wetlands and discussed property boundaries and parking issues related to a development project. The historical context of the site and concerns over wildlife habitat and wetland delineation resurfaced as the commission responded to a Select Board request for comments on a proposed project on Riverneck Road.

Furthermore, members discussed the peer review process and its implications for the water district’s understanding, as well as the need for expert soil assessment and testing for contamination on the same site. The discussion on Conquered Road revolved around clarifying the scope of the required peer review and the meeting concluded with plans to continue the conversation at the next scheduled meeting on May 28th.