At the forefront of the meeting, the development project on Pon Street was revisited, with the project team presenting a response to comments from previous sessions. This included a letter from PGB Engineers confirming that all comments had been addressed, and discussions about the proposed wetland replication area. The team aimed to minimize disturbance to existing vegetation and responded to concerns about runoff, grading near the pool and garages, and the structures’ proximity to the 50-foot zone. There were also plans to issue a certificate of compliance for a previous project and discussions to close out an old intent. Despite the team’s willingness to make further revisions based on feedback, the commission sought additional review from the consultant on the new plans and proposed conditions, leading to a motion to continue the discussion at a future meeting.

In addition to the 265 Pon Street project, the commission navigated a request to take an item out of order, which involved updates from an applicant regarding plan revisions. These revisions pertained to the Highway Superintendent’s drainage comments and the Fire Department’s concerns about driveway width and building access. Due to a lack of confirmation from the Fire Department or PGB Engineering on the revised plans, the commission opted to continue this discussion at the next session. The focus then shifted to a restoration plan for a property that had encroached into the 50-foot wetland buffer zone, proposing a conservation mix to encourage vegetation growth. The plan was sent to Ecosystems for review and would be considered alongside a proposed single-family residence and septic system on the same property.

The meeting also covered the ratification of an amended approval plan for a 28×28 detached garage, which took into account ecosystem impacts and featured erosion control measures. Discussions also included the relocation of wetland lines, agreed by the commission to be conservative, and consequently pushed back approximately 20-30 feet in certain areas. Flooding issues were a concern, particularly on BL Street, where drainage problems associated with a Dunkin Donuts facility were under scrutiny. Solutions included raising the driveway height and addressing catch basin issues.

Additional topics of the meeting involved an enforcement order for Lot 11 on Palmer Road, the status of drainage facilities for various properties, and the request for special counsel to assist with non-compliance issues on Home Street. The commission contemplated reaching out to the council for assistance with the persistent flooding issues. Furthermore, administrative matters such as the approval of payments and discussion of signature authority for the fiscal year 2021 were addressed.