The board engaged in an in-depth review of the project, taking into account concerns and recommendations from multiple departments. The Department of Public Works (DPW) called for a comprehensive site plan review, and the Police Department requested a stop sign at the driveway’s end. The Fire Department’s concerns ranged from water flow tests to the need for automatic sprinkler systems in townhouse units. The Building Commissioner emphasized compliance with current building codes, while the Board of Health focused on groundwater protection and Title 5 regulations.

The board also weighed the pros and cons of the project’s approach as a Local Initiative Program (LIP) versus a traditional 40B project.

During the public hearing, residents raised concerns about the project’s potential impacts on traffic, wetlands, and wildlife. A long-standing resident cited issues with the proposed driveways and potential flooding, while another town meeting representative opposed the location for affordable housing. Safety and the potential danger of a driveway on a blind corner were among the safety concerns discussed. The board acknowledged these concerns and sought additional information, particularly from the Conservation Commission, about the project’s impact on wetlands and traffic.

The broader implications of development agreements and zoning changes were also discussed. A presentation by the Vice Chair of the Planning Board highlighted the need to create a zoning district that would allow multifamily housing by right, as required by a new state law. The areas selected for this zoning included the UMass West area and the 110 West multifamily area, with a proposed density of 15 units per acre and a building height limit of three stories. The board scrutinized the proposed changes to existing agreements, exploring the possibility of amending a developer agreement for a property on Princeton Street to increase the affordable housing requirement from 10% to 15%.

The board also contemplated the potential modification of an existing development agreement, addressing concerns about affordability, age restriction, and unit count. Correspondence with a representative from the developer suggested a willingness to cooperate with the town, with the caveat of legal review and assurance of no negative project impact. The board debated the potential risks of modifying the agreement without clear state guidance and the ramifications on the town’s subsidized housing inventory.

In other discussions, the board addressed a letter to be sent to Mass Housing regarding a proposed 40B development. The letter would encapsulate neighbor comments and board concerns about the density, hazardous conditions, and environmental impacts of the project. The board agreed that the letter should reflect their apprehensions, including the eradication of trees and concerns about the proximity of wastewater treatment to nearby wells.

Additional topics included the town’s financial performance, with a positive report on revenue collection and expenditure management. Specific attention was given to the revenue surplus attributed to motor vehicle excise tax, local option meals tax, hotel room occupancy tax, and building permits. The sewer and stormwater enterprises were noted to be running a deficit, but confidence was expressed in their expenditure management. The board also approved appointments for the Commission on Disabilities, the Tree Committee, and discussed the upcoming town meeting recommendations.

Towards the meeting’s conclusion, reports and referrals touched on the Open Space and Recreation Plan project, the Strategic Plan Steering Committee’s progress, and the Fire Station Study Committee’s final report. The promotion of a police sergeant to lieutenant and the ribbon-cutting event for a new business were acknowledged, along with a nomination to a service academy. Finally, the board concluded the meeting with a motion to adjourn.