24:02The discussion on water supply was a primary concern, with plans to utilize individual wells for each unit instead of a community well. Residents expressed apprehension about the potential strain this could place on local aquifers, given the estimated 40,000 gallons of water per day needed for the development. The developers assured that much of the water would be treated and returned to the ground, but the necessity for solid data on groundwater capacity was emphasized to alleviate concerns from existing homeowners. Additionally, questions regarding the adequacy of water resources were raised, with some residents expressing skepticism about the current plans’ ability to meet the demand from the new development.

33:14In terms of housing, the proposal includes 25% affordable housing units, totaling approximately 44 units, in line with state guidelines. The developers confirmed these units would be interspersed throughout the community rather than clustered, adhering to mass housing authority requirements. The possibility of incorporating over-55 senior housing was mentioned, although no commitment was made. Concerns about the potential influx of school-age children were also noted, reflecting broader community worries about how the development might impact local infrastructure and resources.

17:25Traffic management emerged as another significant issue. Residents voiced concerns about potential congestion on Freetown Street, the primary access point for the development. Suggestions were made to explore additional access routes on Howland Road and County Road to alleviate traffic. The board discussed past considerations for widening Freetown Street, though concerns about the impact on nearby wells were raised. Furthermore, the meeting involved discussions about the necessity of a new traffic study to better understand and mitigate potential impacts.

31:16The presence and operation of a sewage treatment plant also attracted attention, with questions about monitoring water quality and the management of waste products. Residents were concerned about noise from alarms and potential odors from waste disposal. The board clarified that the Department of Environmental Protection would oversee the plant’s operations.

44:32In addition to these primary concerns, residents raised issues about the environmental impact, particularly regarding vernal pools and wetlands identified on the property. The conservation commission approved a wetland line, confirming the presence of four vernal pools. Residents sought assurance about the project’s compliance with environmental regulations and called for detailed visual aids, such as color-coded maps, to enhance community understanding of the development’s ecological footprint.

01:25:59The board committed to continuing discussions and reviewing engineering plans at a follow-up meeting, emphasizing their role in mediating between residents and developers. As the meeting concluded, plans for further dialogue were set, with a particular focus on reviewing the revised proposal’s impact on the community’s water resources, traffic, and housing needs.