The proposed changes to the Hopkinton Stone and Garden project on Lumber Street involved alterations to isolated vegetated wetland and the construction of a commercial building. The site’s modifications have been under review for multiple years, with adjustments made to meet stormwater management standards and ensure compliance with Massachusetts stormwater standards. However, it was disclosed during the meeting that the applicant had withdrawn the permit requests for stormwater management through the planning board, which had not completed a stormwater review. This led to a recommendation for an engineer to evaluate the project’s compliance with state stormwater standards and verify the calculations for compensation related to isolated land subject to flooding (ILSF). The commission also suggested an engineer review the project under Hopkinton local stormwater regulations, emphasizing the importance of a review process to meet all necessary standards.

Another item that garnered attention was the request for a minor project change at a property on Fox Hollow Road. The applicant sought to alter the orientation of the house and septic system, requiring additional grading and a temporary access road. The commission members raised concerns about the potential impacts on wetlands and buffer zones, concluding that the changes warranted treatment as an amended notice of intent. This meant a new filing and public notification process was necessary, although the applicant inquired about expediting due to construction timelines. The commission advised that their consultant should prepare the application promptly.

The commission also discussed a request for determination of applicability for an above-ground pool and deck on West Elm Street. The applicant, Derek Shitz, outlined the placement of the pool to prevent backwashing or draining near the Wetlands and the use of native plants for landscaping. Despite concerns regarding wetland delineation and missing documentation, the commission voted to issue a negative request for determination of applicability, allowing the project to proceed.

The meeting included a consideration of a notice of intent for the COA building entrance upgrades, parking lot, and drainage system improvements on East Street by the Mass Labor’s Training Trust Fund. Scott G, representing the applicant, presented the proposal, which intended to enhance stormwater management through the removal of impervious surfaces. The commission reviewed a peer letter from Lucas Environmental, containing minor plan modification suggestions. After some deliberation on the peer review comments and the project details, the commission decided to continue the discussion at a future meeting.

Moreover, the commission addressed Drew Logan’s property improvement proposal. It involved reconfiguring a patio, addressing the deteriorating condition of a concrete driveway, and improving stormwater drainage. The commission sought to ensure the project’s compliance with environmental regulations, with a focus on the specific aspects of the project and its impact on the natural environment.

The meeting revealed a discussion about the necessity of a stormwater review for a project plan that had undergone changes. There was uncertainty about the original review engineer’s availability and potential conflicts with different contractors. Furthermore, the commission debated whether to grant a requested extension for a homeowner’s construction project, considering the subdivision of the lot, design changes, and impact on the buffer zone and steep slope. After discussion, a one-year extension was granted, with the stipulation of ongoing communication and adherence to regulations.