Court Ruling by Dighton Conservation Commission Ends Strawberry Fields Housing Project After Lengthy Legal Battle
- Meeting Overview:
The Dighton Conservation Commission meeting on May 21, 2026, was marked by the announcement of a court ruling that effectively terminated the controversial Strawberry Fields housing project on Somerset Avenue. The project, initially rejected by the commission, had been the subject of appeals and legal proceedings, culminating in the commission’s favor. This decision was hailed as positive news for the commission.
The meeting then addressed various environmental and construction projects within the town. One notable item concerned a proposal from Long Built Homes at Hunters Hill LLC to construct a single-family home on Clubhouse Road. The commission had conducted a site visit and noted the project’s compliance with environmental regulations, including maintaining construction outside the designated no-build zone. The project was approved after discussions highlighted the rehabilitation of previously disturbed areas and the addition of native vegetation.
Another discussion involved a gravel access road for Massachusetts Electric Company. The road, part of an existing utility right-of-way, aims to facilitate access to a pole storage area. The project involves minimal environmental impact, with erosion controls planned throughout construction. The commission granted approval for this project as well.
In another matter, the commission discussed enforcement issues at a property on Hot Street. Concerns were raised over the applicant’s noncompliance with directives, resulting in potential siltation and drainage problems affecting neighboring properties. An email from a neighbor, Jason Mashado, expressed frustration over these issues, prompting the commission to require a satisfactory resolution plan before issuing a certificate of compliance. The involvement of an engineer was deemed necessary to address the concerns adequately.
Additionally, the commission addressed an unauthorized construction incident on Park Avenue, where a drill rig was reportedly operating in the river without permits. The commission planned to write a letter to rectify the violation.
The meeting also included updates on various planting proposals and restoration plans. The commission referenced a BSC report that highlighted discrepancies in aerial photography and identified the need for hydroseeding to restore certain areas. Discussions about plantings on Oak Street led to a motion to acknowledge the completion of required work, which passed unanimously.
An oil spill incident on Pleasant Street was reviewed, with confirmation that cleanup efforts had been successful. The commission received documentation from a Licensed Site Professional.
The commission also discussed routine matters, such as the approval of meeting minutes and property-related financial decisions. A notable development was the introduction of a new volunteer application from Jason Lawrence, who expressed interest in joining the commission as an associate member. His background and commitment to sustainable farming were recognized, and his application was approved.
Michael P. Mullen, Jr.
Environmental Commission Officials:
James Digits, Jack Crawford, James Souza, Jason Lachance, David Phillips, Paul Reynolds, Leonard Hull, Jr, Lisa Caledonia (Conservation Agent), Maureen Kane (Office Assistant)
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Meeting Type:
Environmental Commission
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
05/21/2026
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Recording Published:
05/21/2026
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Duration:
62 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Bristol County
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Towns:
Dighton
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