The most pressing topic was the large-scale project at Heritage Park, particularly the dredging of Blackland Pond. Chris Baker, representing the Berkshire Design Group, provided an overview of the project. The park, which features baseball fields, a playground, a dog park, and a covered pavilion, has not seen pond dredging since its creation in the 1960s, leading to significant sediment buildup. Baker explained that the proposed dredging would involve mechanically removing approximately 4,000 cubic yards of sediment from the pond, covering an area of about 133,000 square feet. The dredged material would be dewatered at a location planned for an amphitheater, minimizing disruption to ongoing construction.

The council explored the sediment management plan, focusing on the pond’s water quality and sediment contamination concerns. Additionally, Baker discussed measures to manage sediment and erosion, including the historical installation of a metal plate to control water levels, which inadvertently contributed to bank erosion.

As the conversation extended to park improvements, the proposed enhancements included widening roads, adding parking spaces, and constructing four multi-use sports fields, a new playground, a splash pad, and restroom facilities. The council showed particular interest in the planned amphitheater and its potential benefits for community events. Bank stabilization efforts were highlighted, with plans to create gentler slopes reinforced with plantings to prevent further erosion.

Stormwater management was another focus, with discussions about implementing coffer dams to prevent sediment entry during dredging. The town’s compliance with state permits, including a MEPA permit and 401 certification, was a concern, as was the timeline for obtaining these permits. Best management practices, such as rain gardens, were proposed to mitigate chemical runoff from nearby turf sports fields. However, the council emphasized the need for further details on stormwater treatment systems to enhance water quality before discharge into the pond.

The meeting also addressed broader stormwater issues affecting the town. Representatives from Time Bond, Kelly Crerrine and Haley Rivers, presented updates on the stormwater management program, highlighting accomplishments from permit year seven and plans for year eight. The town operates under the EPA’s MS4 program, which has been administratively continued since 2019, causing unease among council members about the slow issuance of new permits.

Crerrine outlined the program’s minimum control measures, including public education and illicit discharge detection. Of particular concern was the identification of potential sewer connections in three catchments, prompting recommendations for further investigation. The town’s efforts to align its stormwater bylaw with development conditions were noted as a positive outcome, with several site plan reviews and inspections completed without enforcement actions.

A notable aspect of the stormwater management update was the focus on nitrogen pollution, with the town required to reduce nitrogen levels in discharges into the Connecticut River watershed. Crerrine emphasized ongoing public outreach and education initiatives, noting the importance of engaging residents in stormwater programs.

The discussion also covered future projects, including the selection of Heritage Park for a bio-retention basin demonstration project. This initiative aims to improve stormwater management by utilizing natural systems to filter and absorb runoff. The council expressed concerns about the financial implications of these projects, acknowledging the rising costs associated with enhanced stormwater management requirements.

As the meeting drew to a close, the council briefly touched on a property on Porter Road, granting a 30-day grace period for the owner to seek buyers before considering legal action. The council agreed that allowing time for a sale was reasonable, given the current real estate market conditions.