The proposed affordable housing project on Riverneck Road was the central topic of the meeting. The developers sought the board’s endorsement to proceed under the Chapter 40B process, which allows for more flexible zoning to increase affordable housing stock. Despite presenting revisions to the plans, including a commitment to increase affordable units and reduce costs relative to the area median income, the project faced significant opposition.

One resident expressed concerns about the potential for a “revolving door residence” scenario, where units could be rented to employees on temporary visas, destabilizing the community. The resident argued this would undermine the purpose of affordable housing and urged the board to deny the LIP proposal.

The Conservation Commission had also opposed the project, citing environmental concerns related to developing near conservation land. Additionally, issues such as snow storage, stormwater management, and pedestrian access were raised. The developers had proposed various mitigations, including trucking excess snow off-site and incorporating recharge systems to control runoff. However, the absence of sidewalks and the steep grade of the development were flagged as significant barriers for elderly and disabled residents.

Board members echoed these concerns, emphasizing unresolved issues and the need for numerous waivers. One member noted, “I still feel that the cons outweigh the pros,” indicating skepticism about the project’s benefits. Ultimately, a motion was made to not endorse the LIP project, resulting in a 4-1 vote against it.

The board then moved on to other agenda items, including a license for Kissa Paul. The board expressed disappointment at the lack of updates from the applicant since the last meeting and decided to issue written correspondence requesting feedback by the next meeting, allowing two weeks for a response.

Another discussion centered on the town manager’s goals. A member presented a summary of these goals, seeking input on their prioritization. The idea of creating tiers for the goals was debated, with some members suggesting clustering them under focus areas and initiatives without explicit tiers. Specific ongoing management items, such as fee structures and legislative grants, were also reviewed.

The topic of marijuana policy was revisited, with one member proposing to reconsider the zoning and revenue implications of cannabis businesses. Given the proliferation of such businesses in neighboring areas, the member suggested scheduling a discussion for a September meeting to gather opinions and data on how other communities manage their marijuana regulations. The need for information on the current state of the CBD industry and the rise of mail-order sales was emphasized.

The meeting also included a discussion on the proposed development projects for the West Chelmsford and South Chelmsford Fire Stations. These projects will require town meeting votes and will appear on the ballot for public voting in November. Additionally, community preservation articles were discussed, including a proposal to rescind an unexpended appropriation from the Community Preservation Fund and to fund a project to expand community housing at One Smith Street.

The board addressed ongoing infrastructure projects, such as the replacement of a sewer force main on Progress Avenue and a drainage project on Hugo Lane. Concerns were also raised about the need for improved access and passageways for vehicles around recreational areas at the McCarthy Middle School. The potential construction of pickleball courts, basketball courts, and street hockey facilities was discussed, highlighting community demand and the need for school committee buy-in.

The town manager’s report included updates on the budget, noting a positive increase in Chapter 70 education funds and unrestricted general government aid. Specific earmarks included funds for a food pantry trailer, planting shade trees in environmental justice areas, upgrading electric vehicle charging stations, and meeting nutritional needs for elders.