The proposed Walmart fuel station was a central topic. The plan involves transforming a parking area into a 1,600 square foot kiosk with a 4,800 square foot canopy housing 16 fueling positions. Three underground tanks will provide fuel storage, requiring careful coordination with local and state authorities for permitting due to the high volume of flammable liquids. The project will also add seven parking spaces, maintaining compliance with ADA requirements. The council highlighted concerns about environmental impacts, particularly given the site’s proximity to wetlands. The proposed development increases impervious surfaces, raising questions about stormwater management and adherence to environmental regulations.

The project includes an underground infiltration basin to address stormwater runoff, designed to meet Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection standards. However, the council emphasized the need for annual stormwater inspections, linking them to the Department of Public Works to ensure compliance. The discussion also touched on the necessity of a special permit due to the site’s location in a designated zoning district, with Walmart required to seek additional approvals from local authorities.

The council’s examination extended to pedestrian accessibility and safety. Suggestions included marking driveway entrances and exits clearly and considering landscaping as a deterrent for unsafe pedestrian crossings. A commitment to maintaining an electric infrastructure, with a future possibility of electric vehicle charging stations, was noted, aligning with contemporary environmental standards.

In parallel, the council reviewed Gamma’s proposal for a 7,400 square foot building on Green Street, which includes offices, meeting rooms, and a barn for animal-assisted therapy. This site plan was praised for addressing limitations of current outdoor-only therapy sessions, which are affected by weather and school schedules. The plan includes 15 parking spaces and provisions for ADA compliance. The barn aims to expand service capacity, potentially serving over 25 individuals daily. Environmental concerns were also prominent in this discussion, focusing on slopes near wetland areas and erosion control measures during construction. The council emphasized the importance of screening parking areas with native plantings to comply with zoning requirements.

The Gamma project addresses stormwater management with a design that mitigates both pre- and post-development runoff. The proposal includes a stone diaphragm drip edge to manage roof rainwater and plans to maintain existing manure storage, supplemented by a compost bin. The council identified the need for further plans to ensure full compliance with local codes before final approval.