The meeting’s most contentious issue revolved around noise complaints from residents living near Frank Milla Landscaping on Westwood Avenue. During the public hearing, a concerned neighbor, Ronald Jake Bean, voiced significant disruptions caused by the noise of heavy machinery starting as early as 6 AM. He expressed frustration, stating that the noise has “significantly affected his quality of life,” to the extent that he cannot enjoy his backyard. The existing special permit for the business, issued in 2009, allows operations from 7 AM to 8 PM, Monday through Saturday, yet there appeared to be confusion about whether these conditions were being adhered to, particularly regarding the number of vehicle trips allowed.

The board acknowledged the residents’ grievances and explored potential solutions, such as implementing a vegetative buffer to mitigate noise.

In another significant agenda item, the board deliberated on a proposal for two outdoor decks at a family restaurant, previously operating as a nightclub. The applicant sought permission to serve food and drinks to 32 patrons across eight tables from April through October. The proposal emphasized the restaurant’s shift from a nightclub to a family-oriented establishment, with plans to add plantings for privacy. The board discussed the operational history of outdoor dining during the pandemic, noting that the restaurant had not exceeded parking capacities or caused disturbances. However, a uniform closing time of 10 PM for the outdoor area was agreed upon to align with existing liquor license conditions. The board voted in favor of the proposal.

The board also addressed procedural aspects concerning business practices, such as a business name change due to a claim from a California restaurant, necessitating an update to the liquor license name without altering ownership. Following this, the board considered amendments to the zoning bylaw related to mounted photo-voltaics, emphasizing the necessity of special permits for structures covering significant parking areas. The proposed changes aimed to prevent misuse of classification terms and ensure structural safety, with recommendations forwarded to the Town Council.

Further, the board revisited the expansion of musicians at East Village Tavern, making an increase from three to five musicians permanent, following a successful six-month trial period without complaints. This decision was part of a broader discussion on maintaining manageable noise levels in the community.

The meeting concluded with updates on ongoing projects, including the introduction of a proposed drone bylaw intended to regulate local drone usage, which was unanimously recommended to the Town Council. The board also addressed resident concerns regarding potential commercial zoning changes near North Main and Maple Shade Streets.