A focal point of the meeting was Verizon’s request for approval to use outdoor metal shipping containers for storage at their facility on Lumberton Road. This proposal came under scrutiny due to zoning compliance issues, as current ordinances do not permit such containers. Verizon argued that the containers were a more visually acceptable option compared to larger structures, emphasizing their lower profile and efficiency for site operations. However, concerns were raised about environmental risks associated with outdoor storage, particularly regarding hazardous materials like compressed gases and treated utility poles. Verizon representatives assured the board that their practices adhered to state regulations and that the site was regularly monitored by licensed environmental professionals. The board stressed the need for a detailed report from Verizon’s Licensed Site Remediation Professional (LSRP) to confirm the absence of contamination before any approval could be granted.

Simultaneously, the board addressed a request for amendments to the site plan of a 72-unit affordable housing project. The proposed changes included replacing an existing wood fence with a white vinyl fence, aligning with other vinyl structures on the property and enhancing visual consistency. Concerns were raised about the placement of wire mesh associated with the fence, which was initially installed on the inside, potentially posing safety issues. The applicant was open to modifications, such as relocating the wire to the exterior to prevent climbing risks. The board’s planner emphasized the project’s role in fulfilling the town’s affordable housing obligations and noted the significant costs already incurred by the applicant in making the changes. The discussion concluded with procedural motions to approve the administrative amendments.

Further discourse at the meeting involved the condition and future of fencing at the Verizon facility. The discussion centered on whether to patch the existing chain-link fence or replace it with new fencing that included pre-installed slats. Board members highlighted the deteriorated state of the current fence and suggested that a complete replacement might be more cost-effective and visually appealing. The presence of barbed wire fencing, used as a theft deterrent, also came into question due to state regulations requiring consent from adjacent property owners. The board recommended that Verizon consider installing “No Trespassing” signs to mitigate potential liability issues related to the barbed wire.

The board also evaluated tire storage practices at the Verizon site, particularly the risks of water accumulation in tires stored outside, which could lead to mosquito breeding. It was clarified that only new tires, mounted on rims, were stored outdoors, and used tires were kept inside until disposal. This clarification aimed to address concerns raised by the fire official about potential hazards associated with tire storage.

A emphasis was placed on the need for detailed documentation and assurance of compliance from Verizon, with members expressing a preference for receiving reports before making any final decisions. The board also touched upon potential improvements to the site’s landscape, acknowledging budgetary constraints faced by public utilities like Verizon but stressing the importance of maintaining a property that aligns with community standards.

In addition to these discussions, the board addressed the issue of storage containers on residential lots. Concerns were raised about the potential misuse of these containers for unauthorized residential or commercial purposes. The current ordinance permits storage containers on residential lots for limited durations under specific conditions, such as fire or water damage. However, the lack of explicit size restrictions and oversight led to a cautious approach from the board, emphasizing the need for careful regulation to prevent future complications.