The Gamma Green Street project, presented by Wesley Fiss of Marti Engineering on behalf of Gamma Incorporated, involves the development of a 115-acre parcel on Green Street. The site includes several existing structures and a proposed new barn to replace outdated facilities. The project’s primary objective is to enhance client services by constructing a 74 by 100-foot barn that will house office spaces and classrooms. Despite the project’s straightforward nature, it encounters issues concerning drainage and erosion control, compounded by its location within a surface water protection area.

A key topic of debate centered on the classification of soil types on the property, particularly in relation to hydrological analysis. The high groundwater levels led to disagreements over whether the soil should be classified as Type A, due to its drainage capability, or Type D, which would reflect poor drainage. The classification impacts the drainage analysis and the overall feasibility of infiltration-based stormwater management strategies. The site’s limitations, including a shallow basin depth, restrict options for additional stormwater management devices. This necessitates a collaborative approach among stakeholders to address these challenges before the next meeting in January, where further discussions are expected.

The project also requires adherence to environmental standards, including the preparation of a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) as part of the EPA filing. This document is essential for maintaining ongoing stability on the property and requires weekly reports during rain events. The project’s proximity to surface water necessitates additional delineation on the site plan regarding perennial streams and buffer zones.

Addressing these environmental concerns is important for the project’s advancement. The proponents have outlined measures to manage runoff and incorporate drainage solutions, such as permeable elements for water absorption. However, the necessity to establish a new well due to the lack of city water at the site introduces a lengthy process requiring approval from the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).

In addition to the Gamma Green Street project, the meeting highlighted a presentation from Barrett Planning Group concerning the city’s master plan. This plan, last updated in 1975, is important for guiding Gardner’s development over the next several decades. Jen Dy, a preservation planner, emphasized the plan’s comprehensive scope, covering land use, housing, transportation, and more. The plan aims to assess the city’s current status and establish goals for the future, supported by extensive public engagement, including workshops, surveys, and open house events.

The master plan’s development includes creating an implementation plan with actionable steps for achieving the city’s envisioned future. Dy encouraged board members to review the materials provided, as a draft of the master plan will soon be available for public comment. This will be a critical opportunity for community input, playing a vital role in the plan’s adoption and the city’s long-term strategic direction.

Lily Kramer from Barrett Planning Group also discussed the Housing Production Plan (HPP), a separate yet related initiative aimed at assessing community housing needs and setting goals for affordable housing development. The HPP focuses on understanding demographic trends, housing characteristics, and barriers to affordable housing. It includes strategies such as zoning changes and identifying municipal properties suitable for housing projects.

The meeting also included discussions on other ongoing projects, such as the expansion of a training pond for dogs, which faced regulatory hurdles due to concerns about its impact on local water resources. The project requires further evaluation to ensure compliance with environmental standards and protection of the aquifer in zone 2.