The most notable issue of the meeting was the traffic generated by Newport Aggregates’ operations on Ledge Road. Longtime residents, including Everett Olsen Jr., expressed deep frustration over the escalating truck traffic, describing it as intolerable. Olsen, who has resided in North Chelmsford for 76 years, detailed the constant stream of trucks, starting as early as 5:30 AM and continuing throughout the day. He highlighted the transformation of once-peaceful neighborhoods into heavy industrial areas, which included noise and safety hazards.

Olsen’s concerns were echoed by Laura Rogers Amundson, who described the environment as “living in a nightmare,” with noise levels akin to being on a highway. Both residents underscored the perceived unfairness of the situation, emphasizing the burden placed on Chelmsford residents due to the operations between Newport and the town of Westford. They questioned why alternative routes were not being utilized, calling for a reevaluation of agreements with Westford.

The board also heard from a Newport representative who challenged the enforcement order, arguing it was arbitrary and unfair. They contended that the increased traffic issues stem from multiple commercial users, not solely Newport. The representative expressed willingness to engage in discussions with Chelmsford and Westford to address these concerns but noted that Chelmsford had not participated in prior discussions.

Board members faced the challenge of determining the legality and implications of the enforcement order, with some expressing uncertainty about their stance. The order’s validity was questioned, with calls for further evaluation of historical information and traffic data. One board member emphasized the need for legal backing in any decision, highlighting the narrow scope of their role in the matter.

Additionally, the board considered whether Newport’s operations had expanded beyond a pre-existing non-conforming use, which would necessitate a special permit. Traffic data suggesting an increase in traffic attributed to Newport complicated this determination, as the study did not differentiate between trucks from Newport and other operators. The discussion included whether to issue a similar order against Graves, another local quarry, to comprehensively address the traffic concerns.

As the meeting progressed, it became evident that a resolution would require cooperation among all stakeholders, not just Newport. The board proposed continuing the discussion to a later date, with the intention of involving neighborhood representatives to ensure that residents’ voices were heard. Newport representatives expressed readiness to engage in further discussions, acknowledging the need for collaborative solutions to the ongoing traffic issues.

The board agreed to continue the administrative appeal concerning Ledge Road until February 6, allowing time for necessary discussions and potential solutions.

Beyond the traffic concerns, the meeting also addressed other zoning matters, including special permits for residential additions and renewals of expired permits. The board approved special permits for a Limited Accessory Apartment on Crab Apple Lane, following a brief public hearing with no objections. Another hearing for an expired permit renewal on Crosby Lane was continued to a future date.