38:50The meeting’s most issue revolved around the proposed extension of mooring fields adjacent to Northfield Point and the city pier, a project that involves driving timber piles and managing invasive species. The discussion was marked by a significant legal question: the right to install mooring fields adjacent to properties not owned by the Fall River Redevelopment Authority. Concerns were raised about the legality and implications of placing mooring fields next to private properties. A participant questioned the commission’s authority, stating, “I don’t understand how we can put mooring fields adjacent to other people’s properties.” This sentiment was echoed by another commission member who expressed skepticism about the commission’s jurisdiction over approving such installations, saying, “I can’t see how we could allow that.”

The conversation revealed a gap in understanding the legal framework surrounding the extension of mooring fields, prompting the commission to withhold approval for Mooring Fields One and Three until further legal clarification could be obtained. The project was approved to proceed at Northfield Point, with future discussions planned to address the unresolved legal issues.

02:52Following this, the commission turned its attention to a notice of intent from the Fall River Redevelopment Authority for a project on Deval Street. This initiative aims to enhance public waterfront access through the development of pathways, mooring fields, and a dinghy dock. Elise Trip from Beta Group presented an overview, emphasizing the creation of recreational spaces and the management of existing environmental concerns. The area, characterized by coastal banks and rocky intertidal shores, is designed to comply with performance standards, with measures in place to manage invasive species and promote native vegetation.

28:18The project also involves repairing deteriorating revetments at Northfield Point and implementing a turbidity curtain during construction to mitigate river sedimentation. While the project promises improved public access and ecological management, the commission’s scrutiny highlighted the intricate balance between development and environmental stewardship.

14:28Another notable agenda item involved modifications to a site within a buffer zone, incorporating a patio and jacuzzi pad. Concerns were raised about equipment use in the buffer zone, which had led to the growth of soft rush. Efforts to manage stormwater and restore native wetland vegetation were discussed, with a plan developed by an individual named Kenny. The proposal included a rain garden scheme to mitigate stormwater runoff and a new fence to maintain the area as a lawn while eradicating invasive Japanese knotweed. The commission motioned to approve an amended order of conditions, contingent on receiving a revised plan reflecting these changes.

In another case, the commission deliberated on an amended order of conditions for Natalie Kimbra’s property on Fieldstone Lane, represented by Brian Butler from Oxbow Associates. The discussion focused on compliance with wetland delineation for an outdoor kitchen and retaining wall project. Butler acknowledged initial concerns about filled wetlands but found no substantial evidence upon site inspection. The commission emphasized the importance of meeting all necessary conditions before proceeding with approvals, highlighting the procedural rigor required in wetland regulation.

47:50The meeting also addressed a request for a determination of applicability for a property on Briarwood Lane, where a legal advertisement had not been placed as promised, leading to the tabling of the item. Additionally, a wetlands delineation on Slate Street was approved after confirming the accuracy of the presented boundaries and addressing concerns from the Division of Marine Fisheries.