38:05The meeting opened with a detailed debate on the necessity and justification behind a mile-long fence surrounding a solar array on agricultural land. Representatives from Ringroad Solar LLC proposed the fence as a safety measure, following concerns raised by building officials from Kingston and Plimpton during the project’s commissioning phase. The board scrutinized the rationale provided, questioning whether the fence was genuinely an agricultural requirement or a workaround for safety issues arising from the solar installation. One member emphasized the need for clarity in the agricultural exemption being sought, questioning, “I need you to give me very clear language here that says no, no, no this this isn’t us just taking a shortcut.” The applicant maintained that the fence was agriculturally related, likening it to normal improvements on agricultural land, such as fencing to protect crops.

However, board members expressed skepticism, highlighting that fencing is not customary for cranberry bogs, with many local bogs existing without such barriers. A request was made for written verification from the electrical inspector detailing any violations, with one member stating, “until I see that piece of paper, I am not interested in moving this forward at all.”

52:25The board ultimately decided to table the matter, agreeing to a hearing date of June 11, emphasizing the need for comprehensive documentation before proceeding.

02:11:30In addition to the solar array discussion, the board addressed other matters, including enforcement issues related to the use of prohibited fertilizers at a property near a certified vernal pool. An enforcement order was discussed following observations that a lawn technician had applied non-organic fertilizers and herbicides, violating standing conditions. The board deliberated on effective enforcement measures, with suggestions to install signage on the property to inform workers about fertilization restrictions. The proposed signage could include multiple languages and QR codes for broader accessibility.

01:27:08Moreover, the board considered updates to the Kingston Wetland Protection Regulations, focusing on clarifying language around vernal pool protections. The proposed changes aimed to eliminate ambiguities that could lead to exemptions within the 200-foot jurisdictional area of vernal pools. The board unanimously approved the amendments.

02:29:42The meeting also touched upon ongoing issues with the Tall Timbers phase 4 development, where homeowners faced challenges due to incomplete work and open conditions affecting property sales. With developers’ entities dissolved, the board discussed the importance of securing bonds to ensure compliance and mitigate financial burdens on the town. Board members expressed a commitment to assisting affected homeowners while emphasizing the need for vigilance in future developments.