The meeting commenced with a detailed review of the proposed update to the outdoor lighting bylaw, presented by resident Kelly BD. As the primary advocate for the initiative, she shared insights from her discussions with department heads and stakeholders, emphasizing a gradual approach to implementing changes. This method aims to prevent the perception of a “lighting police” in the community. Kelly BD had the support of lighting professional Kelly Seager, who contributed to the draft bylaw and recommended forming a subcommittee to finalize it. The board agreed on the need for such a subcommittee, recognizing the importance of including representatives from the Department of Public Works (DPW) and other relevant parties.

Questions arose about specific sections of the proposed bylaw, particularly regarding the height of lights and their application to signage along highways. One board member voiced concerns that the proposed height limits might restrict the illumination methods for signs. Kelly BD clarified that her draft intentionally omitted signage regulations, intending for illuminated signage to remain governed by existing sign bylaws. Discussions also covered holiday lighting displays, with board members expressing concerns about excessive flashing lights and ambiguities around what constitutes a holiday. The current draft allows for holiday lighting within a six-week period before and after holidays, but enforcement remains a challenge.

The conversation also touched upon contemporary lighting trends like festoon lighting, which is decorative and non-functional. Kelly BD aimed to capture such trends without making them illegal, while still imposing reasonable limits. Another member emphasized the need for coherence between the lighting and sign bylaws to address overlaps effectively. The formation of the subcommittee was seen as a step towards refining the bylaw before the next town meeting, with active engagement from board members.

Attention then shifted to the proposed conversion of commercial space on Littleton Road into residential apartments. The applicant, Nancy Chan, outlined her plan to create three new residential units in a building originally designed for commercial use. Chan recounted past tenant conflicts and her commitment to ensuring compatibility among tenants. The building’s parking situation was a point of discussion, with Chan arguing that there was ample parking available. She stated, “I have 100 extra ones,” but the board remained divided on the necessity of designated residential parking areas.

Concerns were raised about the current layout, particularly the shared spaces between commercial and residential units. Board members emphasized the need for separate entrances to ensure privacy and safety, with one member recalling a past project where a glass door was installed to create separation. The issue of safety was significant, especially with commercial spaces like a dance hall for children being in close proximity to residential units. The board insisted that the applicant return with comprehensive architectural plans to address these concerns, including additional staircases and exits to comply with safety regulations.

The meeting also addressed a proposed early childhood education facility on North Road. The applicant’s representative presented a plans for a 16,200 square foot building with associated site improvements. The proposal included 50 parking spaces, which was deemed sufficient based on various studies and comparisons with similar facilities. However, community concerns about parking adequacy and noise mitigation were raised. The representative outlined several noise mitigation strategies, including switching the playground fence to vinyl and increasing tree plantings to create a landscape buffer.

Further discussions covered stormwater design, lighting regulations, and the residential character of the area. The applicant emphasized that the building materials and design aimed to reflect high-quality finishes common in nearby residential constructions. Traffic and pedestrian safety measures were also included, with commitments to implement optimal signal retiming and phasing.

Public comments from residents highlighted ongoing concerns about the proposals. Megan Reeves expressed gratitude for revisions to landscaping and lighting plans but raised issues about the elevation of the parking lot and potential lighting intrusions. Another resident, Michael Joya, voiced skepticism about traffic projections and community engagement.