00:00The primary focus of the meeting was on the White Birch Campground, with representatives Cody and Alex presenting their insights into the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and the enforcement roles of conservation commissions. They provided a analysis, including a geolocated map overlay of the campground and adjacent wetlands. This map identified critical areas of concern, particularly tent sites marked with yellow pins suspected to be within buffer zones.

16:21The conversation revealed a pressing need for clarity on whether existing campsites near wetlands would be allowed to operate under current regulations. A representative expressed concerns about potential business impacts if it was determined that some sites were too close to wetlands, saying, “if we were told… those 30 sites are too close to the wetlands you can’t operate, that would destroy our business model.” This uncertainty highlighted the necessity for a precise delineation of wetland boundaries and the potential hiring of a wetlands consultant, named Ward Smith, to offer expert insights.

07:53A conservation commission member clarified that the wetland maps used were not official and were based on aerial interpretations, which might inaccurately reflect the true extent of the wetlands. This prompted suggestions that professional delineation would be crucial should the property change hands, to guide permissible development accurately. The representatives expressed a commitment to working collaboratively with commission officials to assess and potentially adjust campsite locations to comply with wetlands regulations.

23:17Further complicating the campground’s situation were concerns regarding floodplain regulations. A commissioner shared that the campground, including its access road, falls within a regulatory floodplain, subject to state and federal laws enforced by FEMA. These regulations mandate that any development, including infrastructure improvements, must not elevate flood levels during a 100-year flood event. The town is expected to vote on a new bylaw that could impose even stricter floodplain regulations, adding another layer of complexity for prospective campground operators.

35:17In addition to the campground discussions, the Selectboard addressed ongoing flooding issues attributed to beaver activity. A project representative named John described a situation on State Road where beavers had clogged a culvert, leading to basement flooding. The board agreed on the prudent issuance of an emergency certificate to expedite the installation of flow devices designed to manage water levels and mitigate flooding risks caused by the beavers. The proposed solution included constructing a small fence to allow beavers to dam without obstructing the culvert and installing a pipe upstream to divert water.

49:13The meeting also included updates from various committees. The housing committee, which had been inactive since its chair stepped down last summer, is planning to reconvene with the help of a new volunteer, Paula Jenkins. Efforts to revive the committee’s activities are underway, with a focus on developing an affordable housing plan. Meanwhile, the battery storage committee has completed its work, passing responsibilities to the planning board and Selectboard for further action. Discussions are ongoing regarding the implementation of zoning and general bylaws, which are expected to be addressed in an upcoming special town meeting.

The Selectboard also discussed a future vote on a flood plan overlay district bylaw at the annual town meeting in June. This bylaw is anticipated to garner community support due to widespread flooding concerns. Additionally, there was a brief mention of the Rainbow Motel, which had suffered a fire and was seeking guidance on demolition while considering local wetland regulations.