The core of the residents’ argument centered on the alleged inadequacy of the drainage system, permitted under a special permit issued to Thea Nursery on February 24, 2025. The permit outlined specific requirements for managing stormwater to avoid adverse impacts on neighboring properties. Johanning emphasized the importance of compliance, stating, “Shall not cause adverse drainage impacts… shall not increase water flows onto neighboring properties nor create ponding on neighboring properties.” The residents provided visual evidence, including photographs and videos, to support their claims of flooding, which they attributed to water bypassing a berm and flowing into their lane and yard.

Mike Juliano, an engineer from Eaglebrook Engineering, corroborated the residents’ concerns. He explained that although a berm had been constructed to redirect water flow, significant rainfall in January 2024 and July 2025 still resulted in flooding.

They criticized White’s decision, dated July 15, 2025, as lacking thorough investigation and disregarding crucial evidence. Row recounted White’s statement, “I have no evidence to show that runoff from the nursery caused water to enter your basement,” and challenged the inspector’s conclusion that the flooding was due to the neighborhood’s soil hydrology. The residents accused the inspectional services department of inadequate oversight and urged the board to direct a more comprehensive investigation.

The board’s discussion revealed a consensus on remanding the matter back to the building department for further review. Board members acknowledged the need for a detailed investigation and site visits involving engineers from both parties to explore compliance with the permit’s terms. The board agreed on the importance of collaboration between the nursery and the residents to develop effective solutions.

Johanning and Row expressed willingness to work with the nursery’s engineers, proposing collaborative efforts to identify the flooding source and devise a corrective plan. They highlighted the financial and legal burdens of prolonged conflict, advocating for practical solutions instead.

Maggie Oldfield, representing Thea Nursery, defended their compliance with stormwater management standards and suggested that changes in nearby properties and climate patterns might contribute to the flooding issues. She urged the board to compel collaboration, stressing that only through joint efforts could a resolution be achieved.