A resident from Betty Spring Road voiced unease regarding the landfill’s inspection report, which he deemed inadequate. This document, described as a handwritten map, lacked crucial details such as the demarcation of the containment area. He highlighted the necessity of differentiating stormwater management from the landfill’s leaching collection system, stating that their conflation could pose serious risks. The resident emphasized that the absence of a formal plan from the Gardner Department of Public Works compounded these concerns, especially the potential for water accumulation leading to flooding and contamination.

Attention then shifted to the Gardner Golf Course’s emergency irrigation pipe repair. The system’s failure raised alarms due to potential erosion and runoff into Crystal Lake, which could contaminate the drinking water supply. The urgency was heightened as the golf season began, with the absence of water threatening the health of the course. The commission debated the emergency certification required to expedite repairs, revealing a lack of consensus on the appropriate criteria and timing for such an order. Questions arose about the regulatory process, with some advocating for bypassing certain requirements to hasten repairs. However, concerns about compliance with state permits, specifically the need for a 404 dredging permit instead of the initially anticipated 401 quality permit, complicated the situation.

The commission explored the necessity of soil sampling as part of the dredge permit process. Despite the project’s straightforward nature, involving the replacement of existing pipes, the state’s slow response led to frustration. The commission was reminded of its significant role in local approval to advance the emergency authorization. Nonetheless, skepticism lingered about whether the situation warranted emergency status, prompting further debate over the state’s classification.

The meeting also covered a restoration plan involving the selection of tree species for replanting after tree removal on a separate property. The discussion revealed differing opinions on suitable species. While native species like red maples and white pines were favored, the proposed river birch and white spruce met with skepticism due to their less local origins. Emotions ran high, with frustrations over previous tree removals and the need for a well-considered restoration plan.

Conversations included practical aspects of restoration, such as the removal of debris and the potential use of a small bobcat for logistics. The commission proposed a two-year monitoring period to assess the newly planted species’ establishment. There was consensus to keep the enforcement order open until restoration progress was confirmed, with plans to replace eight deciduous trees.

In other business, the commission addressed a construction proposal at Zero Tolkit Avenue. The project, requiring a determination of applicability under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, faced challenges due to zoning reclassification and setback requirements. Despite concerns about wetland proximity and property boundaries, the commission approved the project subject to conditions, including signage to inform future owners about buffer zones.

Additionally, the Old Duck Pond Dam project was discussed, focusing on the ecological restoration plan involving the dam’s breach. The representative outlined the impact on bordering vegetative wetlands and proposed creating new wetlands. The commission required new calculations and an Operation and Maintenance plan, with a focus on the culvert design and construction logistics. The plan aimed for a 75% survival rate of new species over two seasons.