0:23One notable matter at the meeting involved the construction project on Boxberry Lane. The commission opened a public hearing where Kenneth PR presented plans for a new residential house with a private well. Initially, the project included regrading within a 100-foot buffer zone to wetlands, which was later revised to incorporate a retaining wall to address flood zone filling concerns. However, during the discussion, the commission raised alarms about the apparent lack of erosion control measures and the possibility that construction activities had commenced without the necessary approvals. Concerns were voiced, with one member noting their disconcertment over the premature onset of work. Consequently, a motion was made and passed to issue a cease and desist order until the plans could be thoroughly reviewed and approved. The hearing was scheduled to continue on December 9, allowing for further evaluation of the project’s compliance with environmental regulations.

20:20In another notable discussion, the commission considered a land donation at zero Richmond Road, identified as lot number 207, lot 038. This parcel, offered by the heirs of the Richmond family, had been under conservation restriction for over a decade, with agreements in place limiting its development to certain activities like walking paths and hiking trails. The commission, as the only direct abutter, seemed a logical steward for the property. The donation would expand the commission’s holdings, complementing the adjacent Ice House lot known for its walking paths and educational signage. The commission reviewed historical details about the property, including rights retained by the Richmond family concerning access via an existing lane, which was subject to the conservation restrictions and influenced by MBTA-imposed limits. This acquisition would preserve the land’s historical significance and enhance its potential for conservation and recreational use.

37:35The meeting also covered updates on the forestry plan for Porter Pasture. With the original forester, Phil Benjamin, having retired, the commission learned that Tom Phell would assume responsibility for the plan’s implementation. This transition was received positively. Members expressed hope that the necessary work would begin early next year, targeting January or February when contractors might be more available.

During the session, the commission addressed ongoing property issues, including a lack of updates from the owner of a property on Dr. Burley Road. Since no communication had been received from the property owner, the commission considered sending an enforcement letter to prompt action. A motion to this effect was made and unanimously passed.

20:20Another item on the agenda involved the subdivision proposal on Walnut Street, where minor adjustments were made to the lot line to facilitate garage construction. The commission noted that the current proposal closely mirrored a previously approved one, with only a name change. Due to pending comments from an external party, the hearing was continued to December 9 for additional consideration.

The commission also deliberated on a Notice of Intent for a property development involving a two-car garage. Although the planned structure would be slightly closer than the preferred distance from wetlands, measuring 48.6 feet instead of 50 feet, the commission proposed erosion control measures and a ten-foot vegetative buffer zone to mitigate potential environmental impacts. The motion to approve the Notice of Intent with these conditions was made and passed unanimously.