The meeting’s most significant agenda item was the continued hearing regarding the stormwater management permit for a property on Monponset Street. David Estridge, representing the applicant, updated the commission on the project, which involves two buildings, each containing 36 units, and a pool building. The stormwater management system for this project includes a detention basin from an incomplete 2015 project, an expanded basin, and a substantial underground infiltration system. Estridge assured the commission that the proposal had already undergone peer review by PGB Engineers in July, with all comments addressed. The project also received approvals from the planning board and the Board of Health.

A key discussion point was the fire department’s request to widen the access route from 16 to 20 feet and relocate some hydrants. Estridge clarified that these changes would not affect the existing retaining wall’s location or the project’s compliance with stormwater management calculations. He emphasized that the widening would not alter the hydrology model’s inputs. Further inquiries were made about the materials used in the access route and their impact on stormwater management. Estridge confirmed that the porous nature of the new material would enhance water absorption and infiltration.

The commission also discussed the project’s snow storage plans. Although a designated snow pile area was initially associated with another project, Estridge explained that the primary location for snow storage would be on a paved area, upstream from treatment trains. Board members confirmed with Estridge that no snow would be stored within the 100-foot buffer zone, in accordance with existing conditions that prohibit such storage.

Additional topics included the installation of a six-foot fence to prevent encroachment, granite curbing issues, and the integration of roof drains into the underground infiltration system, all of which Estridge confirmed were accounted for in the plans. The hearing concluded with a motion to close the discussion, followed by a unanimous vote. The commission then deliberated on issuing an order of conditions for the project. Although a proposal to approve the stormwater management permit was entertained, it was noted that a vote could not occur as the hearing had been closed. A motion was subsequently made to accept the stormwater management plan dated August 1, 2024.

Another agenda item was the stormwater management permit application for a property on B Street. The commission examined revised plans submitted by Attorney Sablowski, addressing previous comments from the review engineer. The planning board had conditionally approved the site plan, pending the stormwater management permit. A concern was ensuring all necessary approvals, including from the fire department, were in place before proceeding. A motion was made to deem the application complete and schedule a public hearing within 21 days, which was unanimously approved by roll call vote.

The commission also addressed an enforcement order for Lot 11 Common Road, where unauthorized excavation and vegetation removal had occurred within a buffer zone. Following consultation with Town Council and the absence of an appeal from the applicant, the commission proceeded with recording the enforcement order. Additionally, updates were provided on an ongoing project near Dunkin Donuts and O’Reilly’s, with paving anticipated around November 1.