Dighton Stormwater Commission Discusses Modifications to Basin Design Amidst Solar Project Concerns
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Meeting Type:
Water Control Board
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Meeting Date:
09/18/2024
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Recording Published:
09/24/2024
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Duration:
90 Minutes
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Bristol County
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Towns:
Dighton
- Meeting Overview:
The Dighton Stormwater Commission met on September 18, 2024, to discuss several issues, including significant modifications to basin designs for the Brook Street solar project, updates on drainage projects, and oversight plans for new development areas. The meeting, held at the Old Town Hall’s upper level meeting room, saw active participation from commission members and project representatives.
Central to the discussion was the Brook Street solar project, which required substantial modifications to its stormwater management systems. Mr. Pearson from Weston and Samson presented a detailed report, highlighting the need to redesign the northernmost basin, which had been experiencing prolonged standing water issues. The proposed changes involved converting the infiltration basin into a stormwater detention basin. This would include adding a layer of stone and an underdrain system with an outlet pipe.
The commission also deliberated on the necessity of a waiver for these modifications. However, it was later clarified that the specific regulation did not apply to the project, negating the need for a waiver.
Further discussions on the Brook Street project emphasized the importance of rigorous testing and inspections to ensure proper drainage functionality. Given the project’s history since 2018, there were concerns about the adequacy of natural rainfall for testing purposes. It was suggested that water trucks could be used to simulate conditions if necessary. The commission agreed on the importance of ensuring the basins drained properly before granting final approval.
The commission also examined ongoing projects, including the Blue Wave Solar project at Tremont Middle Streets and the 102 Sunny Way drainage project. Representatives from Blue Wave Solar reported satisfactory grass growth and awaited conservation approval to close out the project. For the Sunny Way project, exploratory digs had been conducted to ascertain underground utility elevations, with ongoing communication regarding conservation filings.
New business included a site visit for Zero Hton Street to finalize a stormwater permit. The visit was scheduled for early October, with an emphasis on the non-binding nature of any actions or votes taken during the visit.
Concerns were raised about planting activities at B 168 P Street, where the use of machinery threatened to flatten a critical swale. Additionally, signage issues on Brook Street were noted, with requests for repair to ensure proper directions for motorists.
The meeting also included updates on the Hunters Hill subdivision, where Weston and Samson had been retained to review stormwater improvements related to the construction of a community center. The proposed community center would feature recreational amenities and require minor modifications to existing permits. The representative assured that drainage infrastructure had been designed to accommodate the new scope of the project, with plans to maintain wetland replication and buffer zone enhancement areas.
Further discussion highlighted the importance of maintaining natural vegetation within the development, with plans for a new detention basin designed to support wildlife and a walking trail for residents. Concerns about erosion controls and construction oversight were addressed, emphasizing the need for thorough inspections and clear communication.
The commission also touched on educational initiatives, including a calendar project and a coloring book aimed at promoting stormwater management awareness among younger community members. The meeting concluded with the approval of minutes from a previous session and a motion to adjourn.
Michael P. Mullen, Jr.
Water Control Board Officials:
Nancy Goulart, Tom Ferry, James Aguiar, Jr., Lisa Caledonia, Robert J. Woods, Joseph Figueiredo, David Phillips (Conservation Liaison)
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Meeting Type:
Water Control Board
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
09/18/2024
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Recording Published:
09/24/2024
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Duration:
90 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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