The stable permit application, submitted by Cody Hamilton, was one of the more contentious items on the agenda. The property had never previously housed horses or a barn, leading to a discussion about the potential impact of the stable on the surrounding area. A neighbor raised concerns about the management of manure and the potential for rodent problems due to feed storage. The well on the neighboring property was approximately 30 feet from the property line, while the proposed stable location was 60 feet away, meeting the minimum required distance of 50 feet. Hamilton assured the board that all feed would be stored securely in a tack room to prevent rodent access. The board emphasized the importance of regular inspections to ensure compliance with animal health standards and pest control measures. The stable permit was approved, contingent upon further inspections to monitor compliance.

Another topic during the meeting was the proposed septic system upgrade on South Street. The request involved two local variances. The first variance was due to the lot size being slightly under the required 30,000 square feet for a three-bedroom residence, exempting the property from implementing nitrogen removal technology. The second variance pertained to the groundwater elevation, specifically concerning one of the outlets from the pump chamber being within 12 inches of the high groundwater table. Discrepancies were noted in the submitted plans, including an incorrect elevation figure, which was corrected during the meeting. The board discussed the implications of the variances, particularly the nitrogen loading waiver, and determined that the proximity of nearby wells and the direction of water flow reduced the risk of contamination. No public comments were made, and notification of abutters was deemed unnecessary since the variances did not impact property lines or wells. A well test for the existing well was pending to check for high nitrate levels.

The board also approved a septic system upgrade for a property on South Avenue. The proposal included local upgrade approvals for an existing two-bedroom home undergoing renovations without increasing flow. The plan involved demolishing a rear portion of the building and adding an extension toward the wetland side, with a connection to municipal water. A fast system with a 2,000-gallon tank was proposed, comprising a 1500-gallon first chamber and a 500-gallon second chamber with a pump. Variances were requested for setbacks from wetlands and for the tanks to be within 12 inches of the groundwater. Discrepancies in setback measurements were identified and discussed, leading to clarifications on the logistics of the proposed tank installation.

In addition to the septic system discussions, the board approved several residential kitchen permits. Joanne’s Table and Tea on Sherwood Lane received approval following a satisfactory inspection, with no public opposition. Similarly, The Wooden Spoon LLC on Beachwood was granted approval pending a final inspection, with all paperwork in order.

The meeting concluded with an announcement about an upcoming rabies clinic scheduled for April 11, 2026, at the Lakeville Highway barn. The clinic, catering to both dogs and cats, will accept payments in cash or check only, with safety regulations requiring dogs to be leashed and cats confined in carriers. The notice for the clinic is available on the town’s website.