Halifax Conservation Commission Issues Cease and Desist Order for a property on River Street Project

In a move, the Halifax Conservation Commission issued a cease and desist order for the project on River Street after uncovering significant non-compliance issues, including unapproved use of heavy machinery and detonation of unexploded ordnance. The meeting held on December 17, 2024, also addressed compliance challenges at various other sites, discussing erosion control failures, unauthorized activities, and stormwater management deficiencies.

One notable issue discussed was the project on River Street, where ongoing concerns about non-compliance led the commission to take firm action. The engineering company responsible had failed to communicate with the commission, prompting an enforcement order. Complications arose as the fire chief reported a large pile of metal debris on-site, and it was noted that the project had exceeded initial excavation conditions. Instances of unexploded ordnance detonation, contrary to approved plans, further compounded the situation. The commission’s decision to issue a cease and desist order was unanimously supported.

Another discussion centered around a compromised erosion control sock at a construction site, where excessive fill and poor excavation practices had led to environmental impact. Heavy rains had washed silty material over the sock and onto neighboring properties, highlighting the inadequate quality of fill and insufficient distance maintained from the base of the sock. Observations from a site visit confirmed the need for a solution barrier and repositioning of fill materials to prevent further erosion. It was agreed that contractors would receive a detailed letter outlining conditions for future inspections, with photographic documentation required after major rain events.

The commission also tackled the ongoing enforcement issues on Pratt Street, initially mistaken for unauthorized cutting near wetlands at this location. Clarification was provided that the cutting occurred at zero Pratt Street, leading to confusion for the owner of 76 Pratt, who denied responsibility. The commission emphasized the need for certified mail correspondence to confirm receipt of enforcement letters and proposed another inspection following the next heavy rainfall to assess environmental impacts.

Addressing water ponding problems on Plymouth Street, the commission discussed the need for further investigation. Additionally, property on Home Street was reviewed, with confirmation that a Notice of Intent (NOI) had been filed. The commission stressed the importance of debris removal before any further work, planning a hearing for January 14 to address compliance and planning issues.

The commission also reviewed the case on Plymouth Street, where an enforcement order revealed discrepancies in the wetlands line and non-compliance from involved parties. An email from Larry Silva suggested the commission might lack jurisdiction over fill deposits, a claim the commission disputed. An updated letter was dispatched to seek compliance and resolve jurisdictional issues.

At 266 Monon Street, the commission reviewed photos and videos depicting discolored water following heavy rainfall, raising concerns that required further site examination and assessment of drainage issues. At 596 Monon Street a site visit confirmed compliance, leading to the approval of a complete certificate of compliance, appreciated by local residents for the diligent cleanup efforts.

The commission also turned its attention to stormwater application standards, providing feedback on a specific application deemed inadequate when compared to those in other towns. The property on Redwood Street was noted for discrepancies in its wetlands lines, scheduled for discussion in the January 14 meeting, although the impact was considered minimal.

Note: This meeting summary was generated by AI, which can occasionally misspell names, misattribute actions, and state inaccuracies. This summary is intended to be a starting point and you should review the meeting record linked above before acting on anything you read. If we got something wrong, let us know. We’re working every day to improve our process in pursuit of universal local government transparency.
Town Administrator:
Cody Haddad
Environmental Commission Officials:
Kathy Evans, Edward Lane, Kimberley King-Cavicchi, Melanie Martin-Plant

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