During the public hearing, the applicant’s representatives, including Dr. Penny Peek and attorney N. Kain, outlined plans to increase the facility’s parking capacity from 11 to 38 spaces, exceeding the required 29 spaces for the business district. The proposal also included the installation of light poles and a comprehensive stormwater management system to address runoff. Board members emphasized the importance of effective traffic circulation, especially given the nearby busy intersection. They suggested that the existing parking lot serve as the primary entrance, with the new parking area designated as an exit, to manage vehicles entering and exiting the property efficiently.

The meeting also addressed concerns about the slope of the driveway, which exceeded the 1% requirement at its intersection with the street. The applicant was instructed to revise this aspect to comply with zoning regulations. Furthermore, the board discussed the need for wheel stops to prevent vehicles from encroaching onto sidewalks.

Stormwater management compliance was another focal point of the meeting. The applicant was asked to clarify their plans for handling stormwater, particularly concerning pollutant removal rates. The current system did not meet the 60% total phosphorus removal requirement, prompting the board to request further clarification. The applicant’s representative expressed confidence in the stormwater system, citing testing results from New Jersey that supported their design’s efficacy.

Additionally, the board reviewed the project’s long-term operation and maintenance plan, emphasizing the need for a maintenance schedule for stormwater management features. It was proposed that inspection reports be submitted to the town to maintain records, particularly in light of future regulatory requirements.

A secondary topic of discussion was the approval of a change of use for a building on Long Meadow Road, transitioning from an auction place to Leo’s Glass Works. The business model encourages infrequent customer drop-offs, with operating hours set from 8 AM to 5 PM on weekdays. The Planning Board approved the site plan without concerns, noting the proponent’s positive reputation within the community.

Further, the board deliberated on an Approval Not Required (ANR) plan for a parcel on Thresher Road, discussing the division of land into three lots. While two lots met the necessary requirements, one lot remained non-conforming, necessitating a future special permit. The historical context of the area was considered, with references to past land uses influencing current zoning considerations.

The board also reviewed amendments to battery energy storage regulations, incorporating previous comments to enhance protections for the town’s aquifer and public drinking water supplies. Discussions highlighted the need for clear operational and maintenance standards, including annual testing and compliance with safety regulations. These updates aimed to balance local business interests with regulatory requirements.

Attention then turned to the bylaws’ formatting and numbering issues, focusing on operations and maintenance and noise studies. The board emphasized the importance of clear, logical presentation to avoid confusion. Discussions included revising the solar bylaws, specifically replacing the previous temporary moratorium on ground-mounted solar systems with new language. The board highlighted the need for legal input to ensure the changes were properly drafted and enforceable.

The meeting concluded with plans to review accessory dwelling unit (ADU) comments from the Town Council at a future meeting, acknowledging tight timeframes for public hearings. The next meeting was scheduled for March 12, with discussions on battery energy storage and ADU proposals planned for April 16.